bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellulose fiber‐reinforced polylactic acid
Authors: Frone A.N. , Berlioz S. , Chailan J.‐F. , Panaitescu D.M. , Donescu D.
Published: May 2011

Polymer composites from polylactic acid (PLA) and two types of cellulose fibers obtained either by acid hydrolysis of microcrystalline cellulose (HMCC) or by mechanical disintegration of regenerated wood fibers (MF) were prepared and characterized. To enhance the compatibility of the cellulose fibers with PLA matrix, a surface treatment based on 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) was performed. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to determine the chemical groups involved in the surface modification reaction. The silanization treatment resulted in different modifications on both types of cellulose fibers because of their different structural and morphological characteristics. The composites were prepared by incorporating 2.5% of the treated or untreated HMCC and MF into a PLA matrix using a melt‐compounding technique. An improved adhesion between the two phases of the composite materials was observed by scanning electron microscopy thanks to treatment. The dynamic mechanical thermal analyses showed that both untreated and silane treated fibers led to an improvement of the storage modulus of PLA in the glassy state. A higher enhancement of the storage modulus in the case of PLA/HMCC composites than the composites containing MF was obtained as a result of the high aspect ratio of these fibers which allows better matrix‐to‐filler stress transfer. Furthermore, the storage modulus of PLA composites was enhanced by silanization even at higher temperatures especially after thermal treatment. The cellulose fibers addition in PLA matrix modified significantly the relaxation phenomenon as observed in tan δ curves, emphasizing strongly modified molecular mobility of PLA macromolecules and crystallization changes. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Making Your Emotions Work for You: A pilot brief intervention for alexithymia with personality‐disordered offenders
Authors: McMurran Mary , Jinks Mary
Published: May 2011

One strategy for reducing premature termination of therapy is to offer pre‐therapy preparation. Here, we describe an intervention targeting alexithymia in offenders with personality disorders. ‘Making Your Emotions Work for You’ is a one‐day group intervention consisting of four evidence‐based components: Psychoeducation, Recognizing Emotions, Self‐Awareness and Seeking Information. Pre‐intervention and post‐intervention scores on measures of alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale‐20 (TAS‐20)) and psychological mindedness (Balanced Index of Psychological Mindedness (BIPM)) are presented for five male personality‐disordered offenders. This small sample showed consistent scores in the dysfunctional direction on both psychometric measures, indicating that there does appear to be a need to address alexithymia in this group. Overall, participants reported positive experiences with the intervention. No reliable pre‐intervention to post‐intervention changes were observed on TAS‐20 scores. On the BIPM Interest scale, reliable improvement was observed for three participants and reliable deterioration for one participant. On the BIPM Insight scale, one participant reliably improved, and one reliably deteriorated. While alexithymia may not be changed by this intervention, participants may become more interested in exploring their emotions, which may enhance engagement in therapy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chiral Azo polyurethane(urea): Preparation, optical properties and low power consumption polymeric thermo‐optic switch
Authors: Liu Jinhua , Qiu Fengxian , Cao Guorong , Guan Yijun , Shen Qiang , Yang Dongya , Guo Qing
Published: May 2011

Azo chromophore molecule (NPMBR) was synthesized by using 4‐nitroaniline, sodium nitrite and chiral reagent, R‐α‐methyl benzylamine. Then, NPMBR was polymerized with isophorone diisocyanate and polyether polyol to obtain novel chiral azo polyurethane(urea) (PUUR). The chemical structures of NPMBR and PUUR were characterized by FTIR and UV‐Vis spectroscopy. The UV‐induced trans/cis photoisomerization and reflex‐isomerization behaviors were investigated and the results indicated that the PUUR solution could undergo photochromism after irradiated by UV light. The measurements of refractive index and thermo‐optic coefficient (dn/dT) of PUUR were demonstrated at different wavelengths and different temperatures by ATR technique. By using CCD digital imaging devices, transmission loss of the internal waveguide was measured. The refractive index dispersions and Sellmeyer coefficients of PUUR were obtained by Sellmeyer equation. A Y‐branched switch based on thermo‐optic effect was proposed and the performance of switch was simulated. With branching angle of 0.143° and FD‐BPM method, the result showed that the power consumption of the thermo‐optic switch could be only 0.4 mW, and the response time of the switch could reach about 3 ms. It has a significant improvement in reducing the power consumption and response time compared with those of the normal Y‐branched polymer thermo‐optic switch. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Benchmark study on glyphosate‐resistant cropping systems in the United States. Part 6: Timeliness of economic decision‐making in implementing weed resistance management strategies
Authors: Weirich Jason W , Shaw David R , Coble Keith H , Owen Micheal DK , Dixon Philip M , Weller Stephen C , Young Bryan G , Wilson Robert G , Jordan David L
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND:The introduction of glyphosate‐resistant (GR) crops in the late 1990s made weed control in maize, cotton and soybean simple. With the rapid adoption of GR crops, many growers began to rely solely on glyphosate for weed control. This eventually led to the evolution of GR weeds. Growers are often reluctant to adopt a weed resistance best management practice (BMP) because of the added cost of additional herbicides to weed control programs which would reduce short‐term revenue. This study was designed to evaluate when a grower that is risk neutral (profit maximizing) or risk averse should adopt a weed resistance BMP.

RESULTS:Whether a grower is risk neutral or risk averse, the optimal decision would be to adopt a weed resistance BMP when the expected loss in revenue is greater than 30% and the probability of resistance evolution is 0.1 or greater. However, if the probability of developing resistance increases to 0.3, then the best decision would be to adopt a weed resistance BMP when the expected loss is 10% or greater.

CONCLUSION:Given the scenarios analyzed, risk‐neutral or risk‐averse growers should implement a weed resistance BMP with confidence that they have made the right decision economically and avoided the risk of lost revenue from resistance. If the grower wants to continue to see the same level of return, adoption of BMP is required. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Herbicide‐resistant weed management: focus on glyphosate
Authors: Beckie Hugh J
Published: May 2011

This review focuses on proactive and reactive management of glyphosate‐resistant (GR) weeds. Glyphosate resistance in weeds has evolved under recurrent glyphosate usage, with little or no diversity in weed management practices. The main herbicide strategy for proactively or reactively managing GR weeds is to supplement glyphosate with herbicides of alternative modes of action and with soil‐residual activity. These herbicides can be applied in sequences or mixtures. Proactive or reactive GR weed management can be aided by crop cultivars with alternative single or stacked herbicide‐resistance traits, which will become increasingly available to growers in the future. Many growers with GR weeds continue to use glyphosate because of its economical broad‐spectrum weed control. Government farm policies, pesticide regulatory policies and industry actions should encourage growers to adopt a more proactive approach to GR weed management by providing the best information and training on management practices, information on the benefits of proactive management and voluntary incentives, as appropriate. Results from recent surveys in the United States indicate that such a change in grower attitudes may be occurring because of enhanced awareness of the benefits of proactive management and the relative cost of the reactive management of GR weeds. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Capacitance–voltage and impedance‐spectroscopy characteristics of nanoplate EISOI capacitors
Authors: Abouzar Maryam H. , Moritz Werner , Schöning Michael J. , Poghossian Arshak
Published: May 2011

Frequency‐dependent capacitance–voltage (C–V) and impedance‐spectroscopy characteristics of nanoplate capacitive field‐effect electrolyte‐insulator‐silicon‐on‐insulator (EISOI) structures with various thicknesses (30, 60 and 350 nm) of the top p‐Si layer are investigated for the first time. The frequency‐dependent C–V curves of EISOI structures show an unusual behaviour, which significantly differs from that of conventional EIS structures. Due to the large series resistance of the nanoplate top Si, the C–V curves of the EISOI structures show stronger frequency dependence in the accumulation region. In addition, C–V curves show typical low‐frequency behaviour even at higher frequencies (up to 8 kHz). An equivalent circuit of an EISOI structure is discussed taking into account the series resistance of the nanoplate top Si.
Detecting efficiency‐limiting defects in Czochralski‐grown silicon wafers in solar cell production using photoluminescence imaging
Authors: Haunschild Jonas , Reis Isolde E. , Geilker Juliane , Rein Stefan
Published: May 2011

Only recently, methods for quality control of multicrystalline silicon wafers have been published, which allow the efficiency of solar cells to be predicted precisely from photoluminescence (PL) images taken in the as‐cut state. In this letter it is shown that oxygen precipitates, present in standard Czochralski silicon wafers, can cause efficiency losses of more than 4% (absolute) within an industrial solar cell proc‐ ess. These efficiency losses correlate with ring‐like defect structures of reduced intensity in the PL image. In comparison with QSSPC‐based lifetime measurements, we introduce a PL‐based method of quality control which allows the critical wafers to be identified and sorted out reliably at an early state of production and thus increases yield and average efficiency of production lines. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Quantitative comparison of randomization designs in sequential clinical trials based on treatment balance and allocation randomness
Authors: Zhao Wenle , Weng Yanqiu , Wu Qi , Palesch Yuko
Published: May 2011

To evaluate the performance of randomization designs under various parameter settings and trial sample sizes, and identify optimal designs with respect to both treatment imbalance and allocation randomness, we evaluate 260 design scenarios from 14 randomization designs under 15 sample sizes range from 10 to 300, using three measures for imbalance and three measures for randomness. The maximum absolute imbalance and the correct guess (CG) probability are selected to assess the trade‐off performance of each randomization design. As measured by the maximum absolute imbalance and the CG probability, we found that performances of the 14 randomization designs are located in a closed region with the upper boundary (worst case) given by Efron's biased coin design (BCD) and the lower boundary (best case) from the Soares and Wu's big stick design (BSD). Designs close to the lower boundary provide a smaller imbalance and a higher randomness than designs close to the upper boundary. Our research suggested that optimization of randomization design is possible based on quantified evaluation of imbalance and randomness. Based on the maximum imbalance and CG probability, the BSD, Chen's biased coin design with imbalance tolerance method, and Chen's Ehrenfest urn design perform better than popularly used permuted block design, EBCD, and Wei's urn design. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Topical Dermal Application of Essential Oils Attenuates the Severity of Adjuvant Arthritis in Lewis Rats
Authors: Komeh‐Nkrumah Steva A. , Nanjundaiah Siddaraju M. , Rajaiah Rajesh , Yu Hua , Moudgil Kamal D.
Published: May 2011

This study was aimed at examining the effect of an ointment containing essential oils (EO) on the severity of adjuvant arthritis (AA), an experimental model of human rheumatoid arthritis (RA), in Lewis rats and to define the underlying mechanisms. At the onset of AA, the rats received topical application twice daily of an ointment containing 20% EO or placebo ointment. The synovial fluid (SF) and synovium‐infiltrating cells (SIC) of rats were tested for pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐1β. The hind paws and skin were examined histologically. The activity/level of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and anti‐mycobacterial heat‐shock protein 65 (Bhsp65) antibodies were tested. Arthritic rats treated with ointment containing EO developed less severe clinical arthritis compared with the controls, and this activity was attributable to EO and not to the carrier oil. The levels of TNF‐α and IL‐1β, and the activity of MMPs in SF and SIC‐lysate were significantly reduced in EO‐treated arthritic rats compared with the controls. However, the levels of anti‐Bhsp65 antibodies were unaffected by treatment. Thus, topical dermal delivery of EO‐containing ointment down‐modulates the severity of AA in Lewis rats by inhibiting defined mediators of inflammation. Such ointments should be tested in patients with RA and other arthritic conditions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Linalool from Rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora Ducke) Oil Inhibits Adenylate Cyclase in the Retina, Contributing to Understanding its Biological Activity
Authors: Sampaio Lucia de Fatima S. , Maia José Guilherme S. , de Parijós Amanda M. , de Souza Rita Z. , Barata Lauro Euclides S.
Published: May 2011

Rosewood oil (RO) (Aniba rosaeodora Ducke) is rich in linalool, a monoterpene alcohol, which has well studied anxiolytic, sedative and anticonvulsant effects. The inhibition of the increases in cAMP protects against seizures in a diversity of models of epilepsy. In this paper, the principal aim was to investigate the effects of RO, (±)‐linalool and (‐)‐linalool) on adenylate cyclase. They were tested in chick retinas and forskolin was used to stimulate the enzyme target. The phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 4‐(3‐butoxy‐4‐methoxybenzyl)‐imidazolidin‐2‐one, and the non‐selective adenosine receptor antagonist 3‐isobutyl‐methyl‐xanthine (IBMX), were used to control the participation of phosphodiesterase and adenosine receptors in the resulting effects, respectively. The cAMP accumulation was measured by enzyme immune assay (EIA). Rosewood oil, (‐)‐linalool and (±)‐linalool inhibited exclusively the cAMP accumulation stimulated by forskolin, even when adenosine receptors were blocked with IBMX. The IC50 values (in μ m concentration range) calculated from their concentration response–curves were not statistically different, however, the compounds presented a different relative efficacy. These results extend the range of subcellular mechanisms underlying the relaxant action of linalool on the central nervous system. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Licarin E on Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase‐1 and Type‐1 Procollagen in UVB‐irradiated Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Kwon Yi‐Young , Kim Daeyoung , Kim Jaekyung , Hwang Jae‐Kwan
Published: May 2011

Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation induces photoaging by upregulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and decreasing collagen synthesis in human skin cells. This study evaluated the effects of licarin E isolated from mace, the aril of Myristica fragrans Houtt., on MMP‐1 and type‐1 procollagen levels in UVB‐irradiated human skin fibroblasts. Powdered mace extracted with 95% ethanol was used and licarin E isolated by preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography. In addition, western blot analysis, reverse transcription PCR and electrophoretic mobility shift assay were used to evaluate the effects of licarin E and its molecular mechanism. It was found that licarin E attenuated UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression by inactivating mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), thereby inhibiting activator protein 1. Licarin E also increased type‐1 procollagen expression by stimulating transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)/Smad signaling. The findings show that licarin E positively regulates the expression of MMP‐1 and type‐1 procollagen in UVB‐irradiated human skin fibroblasts through MAPK and TGFβ signaling, suggesting its potential as a potent antiphotoaging agent. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A theoretical study of the dependence of the ASxSi6−x cluster structures and properties on composition
Authors: Gao Aimei , Li Guoliang , Finlow David , Chen Hongyu , Li Qian‐Shu
Published: May 2011

The effect of the composition ratio between arsenic and silicon atoms on the structures and properties of AsxSi6−x (x = 0–6) have been systematically investigated using the density functional theory at the B3LYP/6‐311+G* level. The AsxSi6−x clusters prefer substitutional rather than attaching structures; the Si‐rich clusters favor Si6‐like structures, whereas the As‐rich clusters prefer As6‐like structures. The As atoms locating at the framework may explain the difficulty of removal of arsenic impurities from polycrystalline silicon. In general, the average binding energies gradually decrease, implying the AsxSi6−x clusters become increasingly unstable as x increases. Both the HOMO‐LUMO gaps and the As‐dissociation energies present a strong even–odd alternation, implying alternating chemical stability, with the even x members being more stable than the odd ones. The dissociation energies of an As atom from AsxSi6−x are: 3.07, 2.84, 1.84, 2.52, 1.86, and 2.85 eV, for x = 1–6, respectively, and 3.80, 3.08, 2.64, 3.01, 2.93, 3.16 eV for Si (x = 0–5). These dissociation energy results should provide a useful reference for further experimental investigations. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2012
On the backstepping design procedure for multiple input nonlinear systems
Authors: Liu Xinmin , Lin Zongli
Published: May 2011

In a recent paper, we developed a structural decomposition for multiple input multiple output nonlinear systems that are affine in control but otherwise general. In this paper, we exploit the structural properties of such a decomposition in the application of the backstepping design technique on multiple input nonlinear systems. In particular, this decomposition simplifies the conventional backstepping design and motivates new backstepping design procedures that are able to stabilize systems on which the conventional backstepping procedure is not applicable. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonlinear stochastic passivity, feedback equivalence and global stabilization
Authors: Lin Zhongwei , Liu Jizhen , Lin Yan , Zhang Weihai
Published: May 2011

This paper addresses several important issues including stochastic passivity, feedback equivalence and global stabilization for a class of nonlinear stochastic systems. Based on a nonlinear stochastic Kalman–Yacubovitch–Popov (KYP) lemma, we investigate the relationship between a stochastic passive system and the corresponding zero‐output system. Different from the deterministic case, it is shown for the first time that feedback equivalence to a stochastic passive system requires a strong minimum‐phase condition, not the minimum‐phase one. Following the stochastic passivity theory, global stabilization results are established for a class of nonlinear stochastic systems with relative degree 1≤r<n. An example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of our results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early career secondary science teachers: A longitudinal study of beliefs in relation to field experiences
Authors: Fletcher Steven S. , Luft Julie A.
Published: May 2011

This 3‐year longitudinal study explores the evolving beliefs of five prospective secondary science teachers in a university preparation program from recruitment through their first year in the classroom. As an interpretive qualitative study, data were collected through semistructured interviews and an array of artifacts. The data sources were used to construct cases, which led to a cross‐case analysis to understand the important themes in the project. There are three important conclusions from this study. First, the teachers' beliefs about teaching initially shift to a contemporary focus while participating in their teacher preparation program, but ultimately return to a didactic orientation by their first year in the classroom. At the same time, the teachers' beliefs about learning remain consistently more contemporary in nature. Finally, when the participants were enrolled in coursework with a field placement that emphasized reform‐based teaching, their beliefs about teaching and learning were impacted in different ways based on the context of the placement and the individual. The findings from this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the development of science teacher's beliefs about teaching and learning and the role that early field experiences play from preservice education through the induction years. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 95:1124–1146, 2011
A mixture model for the joint analysis of latent developmental trajectories and survival
Authors: Klein Entink Rinke H. , Fox Jean‐Paul , van den Hout Ardo
Published: May 2011

A general joint modeling framework is proposed that includes a parametric stratified survival component for continuous time survival data, and a mixture multilevel item response component to model latent developmental trajectories given mixed discrete response data. The joint model is illustrated in a real data setting, where the utility of longitudinally measured cognitive function as a predictor for survival is investigated in a group of elderly persons. The object is partly to determine whether cognitive impairment is accompanied by a higher mortality rate. Time‐dependent cognitive function is measured using the generalized partial credit model given occasion‐specific mini‐mental state examination response data. A parametric survival model is applied for the survival information, and cognitive function as a continuous latent variable is included as a time‐dependent explanatory variable along with other explanatory information. A mixture model is defined, which incorporates the latent developmental trajectory and the survival component. The mixture model captures the heterogeneity in the developmental trajectories that could not be fully explained by the multilevel item response model and other explanatory variables. A Bayesian modeling approach is pursued, where a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is developed for simultaneous estimation of the joint model parameters. Practical issues as model building and assessment are addressed using the DIC and various posterior predictive tests. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seismic fragility and cost analyses of actively controlled structures
Authors: Wong Kevin K. F. , Harris John L.
Published: May 2011

Seismic fragility represents the probability that structural response exceeds a given performance limit state due to a specified intensity of ground motion, and it has a direct relationship with the cost of rehabilitating the structural system. In this research, a cost analysis framework based on seismic fragility to quantify the expected loss of the structural system was proposed. Incremental dynamic analysis was used to generate the fragility curves, and plastic strain derived from plastic energy dissipation was used to quantify the structural damage at a local level. Two moment‐resisting steel frames and 100 nonstationary Gaussian earthquake ground motions were simulated, and correlations between local damage states and global performance limit states were performed to facilitate the cost analysis study. The results showed that good correlations exist in seismic fragilities, and therefore, the repair cost of the structural system becomes quantifiable. Active control based on the optimal linear control algorithm was included as an auxiliary study to identify the sensitivity of the correlations. It is observed that significant cost reduction can be achieved for structures with few stories when active control is used but may not be cost‐effective if it is installed in taller structures. Published 2011. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Zn(II) ion removal from aqueous solution by using a polyaniline composite
Authors: Katal Reza , Pahlavanzadeh Hassan
Published: May 2011

The aim of this research was to investigate the sorption characteristics of polyaniline/sawdust (PAn/SD) for the removal of Zn(II) ions from aqueous solutions. Batch sorption studies were carried out to determine the effect of initial concentration of the sorbate, agitation time, adsorbent dose, and pH on the removal of Zn(II). The sorptive removal was found to be strongly pH‐dependent. The experimental data fitted well to the Freundlich isotherm. The products were investigated in terms of morphology and chemical structure by using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, respectively. Also, PAn/SD was used for the removal of heavy metals from urban waste water. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of O3 and NO2 on the natural weathering of plasticized poly(vinyl chloride)
Authors: Gallouze N. , Belhaneche‐Bensemra N. , Commereuc S. , Verney V.
Published: May 2011

The aim of this work was to study the natural aging of plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) stabilized with epoxidized sunflower oil and Ca/Zn stearates. For that purpose, PVC samples were exposed in Algiers (hot Mediterranean climate) in two sites where the concentration of atmospheric pollutants (NO2 and O3) was known for 2 years. Site I contained NO2 and O3, and site II contained only NO2. Samples were taken off every four months and characterized (mechanical properties and chemical modifications). The results showed a drop in tensile properties and an increase in Shore D hardness. The UV–Visible spectra evidenced the formation of short polyenes. Chemical structures due to the degradation were evidenced by ATR and transmission FTIR spectroscopy. It was found that the combination of O3 and NO2 exerted the most deleterious effect. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
An investigation into the thermal stability of PVC/montmorillonite composites
Authors: Zheng X. , Gilbert M.
Published: May 2011

An effective stabilizing system for poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC)/clay composites was established. Different types of stabilizers, i.e., organotin, calcium/zinc, barium/zinc, and an epoxy costabilizer, were investigated. The combination of the organotin stabilizer and the epoxy costabilizer was the most effective stabilizing system. Different grades of Cloisite nanoclays were investigated. Cloisite Na did not cause premature degradation of PVC. Cloisite 10A strongly accelerated the degradation of PVC because of the presence of excess surfactant, while a PVC/Cloisite 30B system showed much better thermal stability because there was less organic impurity in the Cloisite 30B. Phosphonium‐modified clays were also prepared. They showed better thermal stability than ammonium‐modified clays, but the drying conditions still need to be optimized in order to produce a dispersible clay powder. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis of (Ge9–Ge9)6– Dimeric Zintl Ions in Liquid Ammonia Solutions of K4Ge9: Low‐Dimensional Coordination Networks in the Crystal Structure of the Ammoniates Kn[K([2.2.2]crypt)]6–n[Ge9–Ge9](NH3)m (n = 2, 3, and 4)
Authors: Scharfe Sandra , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: May 2011

Three new compounds of the dimeric cluster anion [Ge9–Ge9]6– were obtained from liquid ammonia solutions of the Zintl phase K4Ge9. All of them follow the general formula Kn[K([2.2.2]crypt)]6–n[Ge9–Ge9](NH3)m (1: n = 4, m = 14; 2: n = 3, m = 18; 3: n = 2, m = 17.28) and comprise sequestered and non‐sequestered K+ cations in different ratios. The non‐sequestered cations coordinate to the Ge9 cages and support the covalent intercluster bond. Additionally, they are in contact with each other by varying numbers of coordinative ammonia bridges leading to arrangement of the anions. The dimensionality of the cluster arrangements correlates with the amount of sequestering molecules. Layers, double chains and single chains are observed for 1, 2, and 3, respectively, according to an increase of [2.2.2]crypt) per formula unit for 1 to 3.
Two Novel Adamantane‐Like Thio/Selenidogermanates with Complex Cations
Authors: Zhang Feng , Yin Xian‐Hong , Liu Xing , Zhou Jian
Published: May 2011

Two new thio/selenidogermanates [Ni2(μ‐teta)(teta)2]Ge4S10·H2O (1) and [Ni(teta)2]2Ge4Se10·0.5H2O (2) (teta = triethylenetetramine) were solvothermally synthesized and structurally characterized. Both 1 and 2 consist of discrete [Ge4Q10]4– (Q = S, Se) adamantane‐like anions with complex cations as counterions. The [Ge4Q10]4– (Q = S, Se) anions are composed of four nearly tetrahedral GeIV atoms to which are bonded four terminal Q atoms and six bridging Q atoms. Although numerous thio/selenidogermanates with complex cations have been reported, their anions are usually dimeric [Ge2Q6]4– (Q = S, Se) species. 1 and 2 represent the rare examples of the adamantane‐like thio/selenidogermanates with complex cations. The optical absorption spectra indicate that 1 and 2 are wide‐band‐gap semiconductors.
Anatomy of Thought, Mechanism, and Mathematics
Authors: Andersson Sten
Published: May 2011

The organizations of neurons, axons and dendrites in brain space are described with structures of infinite types of rods using Gauss distribution mathematics. Hermitian wavelets are used to describe mechanisms of thought.
Does Prophylactic Biologic Mesh Placement Protect Against the Development of Incisional Hernia in High‐risk Patients?
Authors: Llaguna O. H. , Avgerinos D. V. , Nagda P. , Elfant D. , Leitman I. M. , Goodman E.
Published: May 2011

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the prophylactic use of a biologic prosthesis protects against the development of incisional hernia in a high‐risk patient population.

Methods

A prospective, nonrandomized trial was conducted on 134 patients undergoing open Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass by a single surgeon, at two institutions, from January 2005 to November 2007. At Hospital A, all patients (n = 59) underwent fascial closure of the abdominal midline wound with the prophylactic placement of a biologic mesh (AlloDerm®) in an in‐lay fashion. Patients at Hospital B (n = 75) underwent primary abdominal wall closure using #1 PDS in a running fashion. Data collected included patient demographics, abdominal wall closure technique, postoperative wound complications, follow‐up period, and incidence of incisional hernia.

Results

During the study period 134 patients (mean age = 40.4 years, 80.7% female) underwent open Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (59.7% mesh, 41.5% nonmesh). Twenty‐eight patients were excluded from the analysis secondary to a short follow‐up period (mesh = 13, nonmesh = 11) and/or reoperative surgery unrelated to the development of an incisional hernia (mesh = 2, nonmesh = 2). The mean follow‐up period was 17.3 ± 8.5 months. The overall incidence of incisional hernia was 11.3% (95% CI: 5.2–17.45). The incidence of incisional hernia was significantly lower in the mesh group versus the nonmesh group (2.3 vs. 17.7%, P = 0.014). In a multivariate logistic regression model that adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, albumin, smoking, diabetes, prior surgery, seroma formation, weight loss, and mesh placement, the development of incisional hernia was found to be associated with smoking (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 8.46, 95% CI: 1.79–40.00, P = 0.007) while prophylactic mesh was noted to be protective against hernia development (adjusted OR 0.06, 95% CI: 0.006–0.69, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The prophylactic use of biologic mesh for abdominal wall closure appears to reduce the incidence of incisional hernia in patients with multiple risk factors for incisional hernia development.
Characterization of Almond Cultivars by the Use of Thermal Analysis Techniques. Application to Cultivar Authenticity
Authors: Beltrán Sanahuja A. , Grané Teruel N. , Martín Carratalá M. L. , Garrigós Selva M. C.
Published: May 2011

Almonds are subjected to thermal processes in the production of processed food and this can affect their thermal stability and lead to oxidation processes. In this work, almond samples from three different cultivars (Spanish Guara and Marcona, and American Butte) were characterized by using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) at different heating rates. Crystallization and melting parameters were determined by DSC; whereas thermal stability was studied by TGA, showing no apparent degradation for all samples up to around 290 °C. Butte samples showed the lowest DSC values and TGA initial degradation temperature. These results were linked with differences in fatty acid profiles between Butte and Spanish almond cultivars, Butte presenting higher linoleic acid content. Successful discrimination was obtained for samples analyzed at 2 and 10 °C min−1 heating rates for DSC and TGA, respectively, by applying multivariate stepwise linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The results obtained proved the suitability of thermal analysis techniques combined with LDA for an easy and fast discrimination among different almond cultivars to control eventual adulteration in food processing.
Islam and Resistance in Afghanistan
Authors: Roy Olivier
Published: May 2011

In this new edition, Olivier Roy expands his penetrating study of the history, ideology and structures of the Afghan resistance movement to mid-1989. He examines the evolution of the military and political situation inside Afghanistan during the last years of the Soviet presence and discusses relations between the Afghan resistance and the Islamic fundamentalist movement. The situation created by the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan is also explored, and in a new conclusion Professor Roy assesses to what extent the war has altered the traditional fabric of Afghan society.
Versuch einer Allegemeinen Sprachlehre
Authors: Vater Johann Severin
Published: May 2011

Johann Severin Vater (1771–1826) was professor of theology and Oriental languages at Halle, but his linguistic interests ranged far more widely. This 1801 publication is the thirty-year-old scholar's ambitious attempt to outline a universal theory of language. Vater begins with a short definition of language, and two chapters speculating on the origins of human language and mechanisms for language change. These theoretical chapters, Vater says, were intended to be accessible to students making the transition from classics to philosophy. Vater then proposes the possibility of an overarching theory that could accommodate the different sounds, structures and vocabularies used to encode language functions, and which could be used by scholars to describe the grammar of different languages. He goes a stage further in suggesting that this could be the basis of a universal language. The book ends with a fascinating bibliography of early modern writings on language.
Physics of Radio-Frequency Plasmas
Authors: Chabert Pascal , Braithwaite Nicholas
Published: May 2011

Low-temperature radio frequency plasmas are essential in various sectors of advanced technology, from micro-engineering to spacecraft propulsion systems and efficient sources of light. The subject lies at the complex interfaces between physics, chemistry and engineering. Focusing mostly on physics, this book will interest graduate students and researchers in applied physics and electrical engineering. The book incorporates a cutting-edge perspective on RF plasmas. It also covers basic plasma physics including transport in bounded plasmas and electrical diagnostics. Its pedagogic style engages readers, helping them to develop physical arguments and mathematical analyses. Worked examples apply the theories covered to realistic scenarios, and over 100 in-text questions let readers put their newly acquired knowledge to use and gain confidence in applying physics to real laboratory situations.
Liberalism, Imperialism, and the Historical Imagination
Authors: Koditschek Theodore
Published: May 2011

This book examines the ways in which imperial agendas informed the writing of history in nineteenth-century Britain and how historical writing transformed imperial agendas. Using the published writings and personal papers of Walter Scott, J. A. Froude, James Mill, Rammohun Roy, T. B. Macaulay, E. A. Freeman, W. E. Gladstone, and J. R. Seeley among others, Theodore Koditschek sheds light on the role of the historical imagination in the establishment and legitimation of liberal imperialism. He shows how both imperialists and the imperialized were drawn to reflect back on the Empire's past as a result of the need to construct a modern, multi-national British imperial identity for a more economically expansive and enlightened present. By tracing the imperial lives and historical works of these pivotal figures, Theodore Koditschek illuminates the ways in which discourse altered practice, and vice versa, as well as how the history of Empire was continuously written and re-written.
The Ancient Quarrel Between Philosophy and Poetry
Authors: Barfield Raymond
Published: May 2011

From its beginnings, philosophy's language, concepts and imaginative growth have been heavily influenced by poetry and poets. Drawing on the work of a wide range of thinkers throughout the history of Western philosophy, Raymond Barfield explores the pervasiveness of poetry's impact on philosophy and, conversely, how philosophy has sometimes resisted or denied poetry's influence. Although some thinkers, like Giambatista Vico and Nietzsche, praised the wisdom of poets, and saw poetry and philosophy as mutually beneficial pursuits, others resented, diminished or eliminated the importance of poetry in philosophy. Beginning with the famous passage in Plato's Republic in which Socrates exiles the poets from the city, this book traces the history of the ancient quarrel between philosophy and poetry through the works of thinkers in the Western tradition ranging from Plato to the work of the contemporary thinker Mikhail Bakhtin.
The Institutionalist Movement in American Economics, 1918–1947
Authors: Rutherford Malcolm
Published: May 2011

This book provides a detailed picture of the institutionalist movement in American economics concentrating on the period between the two World Wars. The discussion brings a new emphasis on the leading role of Walton Hamilton in the formation of institutionalism, on the special importance of the ideals of 'science' and 'social control' embodied within the movement, on the large and close network of individuals involved, on the educational programs and research organizations created by institutionalists and on the significant place of the movement within the mainstream of interwar American economics. In these ways the book focuses on the group most closely involved in the active promotion of the movement, on how they themselves constructed it, on its original intellectual appeal and promise and on its institutional supports and sources of funding.
Food retailer practices, attitudes and beliefs about the supply of healthy foods
Authors: Andreyeva Tatiana , Middleton Ann E , Long Michael W , Luedicke Joerg , Schwartz Marlene B
Published: May 2011

Objective

Non-supermarket food retailers can be a promising channel for increasing the availability of healthy foods in underserved communities. The present paper reports on retailer practices, attitudes and beliefs about the supply of healthy foods before and after the introduction of new subsidies for healthy foods by the US Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in October 2009.

Design

We designed and conducted in-person standardized interviews with store owners and managers to assess perceptions of demand and profits for different foods, supply networks, barriers to stocking healthy foods and their changes following implementation of the new WIC packages.

Setting

Non-supermarket retailers in five towns of Connecticut, USA (n 68 in 2009 and n 58 in 2010).

Subjects

Owners and managers of WIC-authorized and non-WIC convenience stores and non-chain grocery stores.

Results

Retailers identified customer demand as the primary factor in stocking decisions. They reported observing a significantly weaker demand for healthy foods compared with unhealthy foods, although it improved for certain foods with the new WIC subsidies. Less healthy foods were also perceived as more profitable. Supplier networks varied by product from convenient manufacturer delivery for salty snacks to self-supply for produce. WIC retailers were able to quickly adapt and supply healthy foods required under the new WIC programme guidelines.

Conclusions

Retailers other than supermarkets currently perceive little demand for healthy foods, but new WIC subsidies have the power to change these perceptions. Supply barriers seem secondary in the limited offerings of healthy foods by stores and could be overcome when policy changes generate new demand for healthy foods.
Determination of Resonance Frequency of Two-Dimensional Alluvial Valley by Background Phase Subtraction Method
Authors: Teng Tsung-Jen , Chai Juin-Fu , Yeh Chau-Shioung
Published: May 2011

This paper is to develop the background phase subtraction method to determine the resonance frequency of a two-dimensional alluvial valley subjected to an incident plane SH-wave. The scattered wave due to the alluvium can be expressed in a series of basis functions, and the associated coefficients are related to the coefficients of free field by the so-called T-matrix method. By applying the resonance scattering theory, the effects among all normal modes can be decoupled and hence one can obtain the phase shift of each eigen partial wave. Similarly, the phase shift of each eigen partial wave due to a canyon with the same geometrical shape of the alluvium can be determined, and is recognized as the background effect. Furthermore, based on the phase represented scattering matrix, the resonance frequencies of each normal mode and its overtones can be determined by the subtraction of the associated phase dependent function due to the canyon from that due to the alluvium.
Numerical Prediction of Turbulent Wakes Behind a Square Cylinder
Authors: Hwang Robert R. , Jaw Sheng-Yuh
Published: May 2011

This paper presents a numerical study on turbulent vortex shedding flows past a square cylinder. The 2D unsteady periodic shedding motion was resolved in the calculation and the superimposed turbulent fluctuations were simulated with a second-order Reynolds-stress closure model. The calculations were carried out by solving numerically the fully elliptic ensemble-averaged Navier-Stokes equations coupled with the turbulence model equations together with the two-layer approach in the treatment of the near-wall region. The performance of the computations was evaluated by comparing the numerical results with data from available experiments. Results indicate that the present study gives good agreement in the shedding frequency and mean drag as well as in some phase profiles of the mean velocity.
Optimal Shape/Topological Design of Plate/Shell Like Structures Subjected to Periodic Excitations
Authors: Cheng Hsien-Chie , Chiang Kuo-Ning
Published: May 2011

This paper deals with the optimal shape/topological design of plate/shell like structures subjected to a harmonic, periodic excitation using an improved Homogenization Based Optimization Algorithm (HBOA), proposed by Cheng et al., [7]. The major goal of this work is to improve or control the frequency response of structures via the optimal distribution of a given amount of material in a fixed design space. Based upon the improved HBOA, two types of frequency response optimization problems are extensively explored: (1) structures subjected to a periodic excitation with a single excitation frequency, (2) structures subjected to a periodic excitation with excitation frequencies in a frequency domain. To this end, the basic mathematical formulation and a solution method are proposed as well as two numerical examples of obtaining the optimum layout of three-dimensional plate/shell structures. An interesting result is reported from the current optimization problems in comparison with static optimization problems.
EndoFEM Node-Released Strategy in the Simulations of Fatigue Crack Closure Phenomena
Authors: Hsiao L. T. , Lee C. F.
Published: May 2011

Applications of the EndoFEM with node-released methods had been used successfully to simulate the plastic wakes left behind the advancing fatigue crack. In this paper, employing the plastic zone size estimated by LEFM as a guideline, four strategies with various plans of node-released rates and two plans of finite element discretization near crack tip, are proposed to generate various fatigue cracked lengths of A12024-T3 CCT specimen under all tensile-cyclic loading. Evaluations based on the mechanical responses near crack tip and the crack opened/closure behaviors, it can be concluded that the EndoFEM with the rc dominant node-released strategy can lead to not only economical but also reliable results.
Explicit Solutions of Plane Elastostatics Problems in Heterogeneous Solids
Authors: Chao C. K. , Gao B.
Published: May 2011

The problem of two circular inclusions of arbitrary radii and of different elastic moduli, which are perfectly bonded to an infinite matrix subjected to arbitrary loading, is solved by the heterogenization technique. This implies that the solution of the heterogeneous problem can be readily obtained from that of the corresponding homogeneous problem by a simple algebraic substitution. Based on the method of successive approximations and the technique of analytical continuation, the solution is formulated in a manner which leads to an approximate, but arbitrary accuracy, result. The present derived solution can be also applied to the problem with straight boundaries. Both the problem of two circular inclusions embedded in an infinite matrix and the problem of a circular inclusion embedded in a half-plane matrix are considered as our examples to demonstrate the use of the present approach.
Impulsive Motion of a Moving Circular Cylinder in a Viscous Flow by the Numerical Simulation
Authors: Young D. L. , Chang J. T.
Published: May 2011

An innovative computation procedure is developed to solve the external flow problems for viscous fluids. The method is able to handle the infinite domain so that it is convenient for the external flows. The code is based on the projection method of the Navier-Stokes equations. We use the three-step explicit finite element method to solve the momentum equation by extracting the boundary effects from the finite computation domain. The pressure Poisson equation for the external field is treated by the boundary element method. The arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) scheme is employed to incorporate the present algorithm to deal with the moving boundary, such as the motion of an impulsively moving circular cylinder in a viscous fluid. The model demonstrates that drag force is well predicted for a circular cylinder moving in a still viscous fluid starting from rest, to a constant acceleration, and then maintaining at a uniform velocity. In the constant acceleration phase, the drag force is closed to the added mass effect from the ideal flow theory. On the other hand, the drag force is equal to viscous flow theory in the constant velocity phase.