bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speech Recognition Experience with Multichannel Cochlear Implants
Authors: Parkin James L. , Eddington Donald K. , Orth Jeffrey L. , Brackmann Derald E.
Published: July 2017

Four patients received multichannel intracochlear implants before 1978 as part of the University of Utah program. By 1983, sound coding strategies and electronic miniaturization were developed to allow production and use of a portable sound processor/cochlear stimulator unit. Approval for expanded clinical trials has allowed Implantation of five additional patients by August 1984. Data on the earlier patients demonstrate stability of electrode thresholds and impedance, low risk of the percutaneous pedestal, and the development of speech recognition scores of greater than 60% with electrical stimulation alone and greater than 90% with electrical stimulation combined with lipreading. Data on recent recipients indicate early electrode threshold stability, lower thresholds for apical electrodes, possibility of replacing single‐channel with multichannel units, and low morbidity of the implantation. Return to function in a verbally communicating environment has been achieved by one earlier patient.
Surgical Correction of Congenital Atresia of the Ear
Authors: Mattox Douglas E. , Fisch Ugo
Published: July 2017

Severe congenital atresia of the ear often requires—or indicates the need for—reconstructive surgery. We have developed a new technique for reconstruction of the external auditory canal. What follows is description of this technique and the results of its implementation.
Aberrant Internal Carotid Artery: Classic Findings on Computed Tomography
Authors: McElveen John T. , Lo William W.M. , El Gabri Tarek H. , Nigri Peter
Published: July 2017

An aberrant internal carotid artery passing through the middle ear is rare and may be misdiagnosed. Surgical intervention can lead to massive bleeding, possible hemiparesis, or both, as demonstrated by the following cases. The purpose of this article is to alert the otolaryngologist and the radiologist to the condition and to subtle computed tomographic features of an aberrant internal carotid artery. Recognition of these features should spare both surgeon and patient the consequences of ill‐advised surgery.
Pediatric Videonasoendoscopy for Speech and Voice Evaluation
Authors: D'Antonio Linda , Chait David , Lotz Wendy , Netsell Ronald
Published: July 2017

Many otolaryngologists and speech clinicians have found videofiberoptic evaluations to be invaluable for assessment of velopharyngeal and laryngeal function in adults. However, many professionals question the feasibility of routine use of these procedures in the pediatric population. This article describes a method for successful completion of videonasoendoscopic speech and voice evaluations of children as young as 3 years of age. The importance of the ENT/speech team is emphasized in both the collection and interpretation of data. In addition, contributions of videonasoendoscopic observations to diagnosis, medical treatment, and therapy for speech and voice disorders are discussed.
Multiparametric Flow Cytometry of Human Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lines from the Head and Neck
Authors: Wustrow Thomas P.U. , Raffael Alexander , Valet Günter
Published: July 2017

Squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck consist of heterogeneous cell populations. The purpose of the present study was to Investigate whether established cell lines from human head and neck cancers under chemotherapy behaved similarly to tumors in patients during in vivo treatment. This Is of Interest in terms of improvements of chemotherapeutic protocols and understanding of the mechanisms of cytotoxic drug resistance. Permanent squamous carcinoma cell lines of the larynx (HLaC 78, 79), parotid gland (HPaC 79), tongue (SCC‐15, SCC‐25), hypopharynx (FaDu), and tumor lines with different histology and origin, as mucoepidermoid cancer cells of the submandibular gland (A 253), Epstein‐Barr virus‐infected human B cells (BC‐1) and mouse fibroblasts (3T3) were Incubated with chemotherapeutic drugs for 1 to 4 days at 37° C. Despite the microscopic similarities to patient carcinomas, cancer cell lines of the head and neck showed different susceptibilities to cell kill mediated by chemotherapeutic drugs, as compared to in vivo therapeutic results with patients. The nonsquamous carcinoma lines demonstrated high chemosensitive responses after incubation with daunorubicin, cyclophosphamide, dactinomycin, vincristine, and aclarubicin. Surprisingly, only low cell killing rates in squamous carcinoma cell lines were observed after incubation with chemotherapeutic agents such as cis‐platinum, 5‐fluorouracil, methotrexate, or bleomycin, which are most commonly used for head and neck cancers. The results show that cytotoxic drug action on in vitro cultured squamous carcinoma cell lines of the head and neck is not representative for the in vivo responses of patient tumors. The cell lines are, however, of potential value for evaluation of cell biochemical changes associated with cytotoxic drug resistance.
Effect of Ligating Peripheral Branches on Facial Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Mattox Douglas E. , Felix Heidi , Fisch UGO , Lyles C. Alan
Published: July 2017

Bilateral transection and reanastomosis of the main trunk of the facial nerve was performed on 18 rats. On one side of each rat, all peripheral branches except the mandibular branch were ligated with silk suture and divided distal to the ligatures. Axon counts after 1, 3, and 6 months showed a statistically significant increase in the number of axons in both the mandibular branch and the main trunk on the side with the peripheral ligation. These data indicate that peripheral branch ligation is a useful adjunct in facial nerve rehabilitation.
Self‐Inflicted Shotgun Wounds of the Face: Surgical and Psychiatric Considerations
Authors: Mathog Robert H. , Nelson Richard J. , Petrilli Anthony , Humphreys Brian
Published: July 2017

This study reviews the evaluation and treatment of patients with extensive self‐inflicted shotgun wounds to the face. Five cases are presented and assessed with regard to reason for suicide, psychological reaction to facial reconstruction, and the potential for social rehabilitation. Mechanisms of injury, acute management, and definitive surgical and psychiatric treatment programs are discussed. Survival is expected for most patients, and carefully planned surgical reconstruction must be coordinated with skilled psychiatric intervention.
Phototherapy with Argon Lasers and Rhodamine‐123 for Tumor Eradication
Authors: Castro Dan J. , Saxton Romaine E. , Fetterman Harold R. , Castro Donna J. , Ward Paul H.
Published: July 2017

The effectiveness of Rhodamine‐123 (Rh‐123) as a new photochemosensitizing agent for the argon laser treatment of human melanoma and squamous carcinoma cells in vitro was recently demonstrated. In this study, a new technique of “rosette” treatment with the argon laser was developed to completely eradicate human squamous carcinoma (P3) tumor transplants in nude mice after chemosensitization with Rh‐123. Each group included four nu/nu mice injected subcutaneously with 107 P3 carcinoma cells/site for a total of 48 sites. Tumor take was >95% at one week, with >10 mm3 tumor volume at each site. Test groups were sensitized with Rh‐123 (1 μg/ml for 1 hour) by intratumor or intraperitoneal injection at 1 week and then treated with the argon laser at 514.5 nm. To allow uniform delivery of energies to the tumor and its edges, a new “rosette” technique was developed. The tumors were then exposed to nonthermal levels of 700 J/cm2 (36°C) or 950 J/cm2 (40°C) as determined by a new and reproducible method of dosimetry. All 16 tumors in this test group showed complete regression with excellent wound healing at 2 weeks and no recurrences, even after an 8 week followup. These results demonstrate that effective eradication of tumors can be achieved in vivo only after sensitization with Rh‐123 and specific argon laser treatment (“rosette”), even at nonthermal levels of energies. The high effectiveness of this technique and low toxicity of Rh‐123 may render its clinical use very attractive for the treatment of superficial malignancies.
The Role of Economics in Energy and Environmental Decision Making: An STS Perspective
Authors: Tatum Jesse S.
Published: July 2017

Contemporary energy and environmental problems continue to pose fundamental challenges to Western models of a successful pattern of life. From the perspective of an integrated study of science, technology, and society, energy and environmental problems can be seen more specifically to raise significant questions about economic decision rules as expressions of those models –i.e.,. as mechanisms for rationalizing traditional energy and environmental patterns of behavior.
STS Challenges for Accomplishing Educational Reform: The Need for Solving Learning Problems
Authors: Yager Robert E.
Published: July 2017

STS represents a significant reform effort in science/technology education in grades kindergarten through the undergraduate collegiate years. It focuses on use of constructivism as a way of learning and a broader view of science, and as a way of assessing learning for real understanding. Basic to STS is teaching and the assessment of learning in multiple domains, namely, concepts, processes, the application of both to new situations, the nature and history of science, creativity skills, and attitude. When education occurs in STS classrooms, students grow significantly in all domains and more so than in traditional classrooms.
The End of Science: The Role of Whole Person Medicine
Authors: Roy Rustum
Published: July 2017

Fundamental science is rapidly approaching its asymptote because it has been so successful. We already have a “theory of everything, that matters to the human race.” The laws of chemistry and physics cannot be replaced. Although most scientists react to this as though it were religious blasphemy, the proof is in our record. Since the discovery of quantum mechanics, no fundamental science of any significance to other sciences has appeared—in 70 years and with, perhaps, expenditures of$ 0.5 trillion. In contrast, engineering and applied sciences have taken over the fundamental role, insofar as it is their advances from electric lights to cars, to planes, to computers that affect all science and all citizens. The reductionist model of approaching reality has been discredited. The most visible arena for the victory of the new integrationist approaches is in the reemergence of integrative medicine, which includes high-tech medicine in the larger body-mind-spirit, or whole person approach.
Information Technology and the Language of Education
Authors: Wayne Kathryn Ross , McBride Maggie
Published: July 2017

In this article, the authors explore the interaction of language and culture through a metaphorical analysis of the ideas written of in Gregory Stock's book, Metaman, as well as explain how education shares the implicit assumptions of Metaman, thus perpetuating and strengthening a modern-day discourse that embeds a technological manifest destiny enveloped in deficiency as a guiding metaphor.
The Computer in College: For Learning or Leisure?
Authors: Stine Peter
Published: July 2017

A survey on computer use was conducted on 152 college students majoring in elementary education. The students used computers an average of 11.8 hours per week. The uses included academic uses such as writing papers and conducting research over the Internet, as well as leisure uses such as chatting, playing games, and cruising the Web. A strong correlation is seen between the number of hours a student spends on the computer for academics and the number of hours spent on the computer for nonacademics. The students “waste” an average of 4.5 hours per week on the computer, which is less than half the time they spend watching television.
Video and Dynamic Query Capability in Schools: Implications for Learning in a Networked Community
Authors: Enomoto Ernestine , Nolet Victor , Marchionini Gary
Published: July 2017

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, the Baltimore Learning Community (BLC) project established a networked electronic learning community through the use of high-quality digital science and social studies resources and high-speed networking. The project will enable science and social studies teachers to access images, text, Web sites, and full motion video via high-speed connections to the Internet. Extending such multimedia configurations into urban schools has facilitated a rethinking of teaching and learning in content classes as well as a reconsideration of how media and method are integrated. It facilitates teacher engagement in designing authentic classroom instruction framed by performance assessments and links project teachers and school site coordinators through a client server, thus promoting a network of teachers and students engaged in learning across schools. However, such a project is not without its challenges—human as well as technological. This article discusses the BLC project identifying technology possibilities, current situational constraints, and implications of creating networked learning communities across disciplines and beyond school walls.
The Role of Technology and Commerce in Spiritual Growth
Authors: Allen Diogenes
Published: July 2017

The author presents the role of nature in our knowledge and love of God in the Greek Fathers and one major medieval theologian, Hugh of St. Victor. There is a very rich literature on the contemplative use of nature but a lesser known one that is an active spirituality. It focuses on technology and commerce and how their improvement is part of our restoration from the Fall. It thus connects earthly pursuits to religious motives and goals. It is non-Aristotelian, free of an anti-intellectual prejudice toward the mechanical arts and commerce. It distinguishes between the proper aim and the misuse of technology and commerce. The loss of this tradition was so complete that Francis Bacon is still regarded by most people as the origin of the notion that science and technology are part of our spiritual restoration after the Fall.
An Interface Model for the Mechanical Interaction between FRP Bars and Concrete
Authors: Guo Jun , Cox James V.
Published: July 2017

An interface model for characterizing the interaction between fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) bars and concrete is examined. When the bars have a significant surface structure, the interaction (commonly called bond) can be dominated by a mechanical interlocking. The model provides a macroscopic characterization of the bond behavior within the mathematical framework of elastoplasticity theory. While the bond model has been applied to both steel and FRP bars, the failure mechanisms can be quite different, thus application of the model to the bond of FRP bars merits critical evaluation. Among the important differences is the potential failure of the surface structure of the bar. Calibration and validation results are presented to highlight the potential strengths and weaknesses of the model. The model gives surprisingly accurate predictions of bond strength for four independent experimental studies. Additional experimental data for evaluation of the model are needed, but the initial results indicate the model could potentially be used to evaluate the behavior of structural components reinforced with FRP bars.
Elastic Interphase with Variable Properties in Fibrous Composites
Authors: Pournaras A. V. , Papanicolaou G. C.
Published: July 2017

In the present work a theoretical model for composite materials with a Poisson's ratio v = 0.5 is developed in order to evaluate the mechanical stresses around a single cylindrical elastic fibre inclusion. The model considers a gradual and continuous variation of the longitudinal elastic modulus EL in the area between matrix and fibre, the former being under hydrostatic pressure po · EL is expressed as a Fermi-Dirac distribution function of important parameters such as the rate of variation of EL, the extent of the interphase and the fibre volume fraction. Results indicate a strong effect of the above parameters on the stress state developed around the fibre.
Some Effects of Private Contributions to International Security Programs
Authors: Brubaker Earl R.
Published: July 2017

Effects of voluntary private contributions to international security programs may include shifts in the locus of decision-making from national governmental apparatuses, escape of member states from fiscal responsibility, reduced coercion of taxation, exacerbation of tensions over control, amelioration of conflict, less frequent and intense resort to violence and military spending, and modifications in societal development. Precise measures for these effects are unusually difficult to establish, and therefore, given the inevitable uncertainty, serious doubts arise as to the sufficiency of grounds for violating the basic value of free consumer choice which in a fundamental sense prohibition of individual contributions constitutes.
Effect of Acid Feeds on Feeding System Contamination
Authors: Heyland Daren K. , Wood Gordon
Published: July 2017

Background and Objective:

Bacterial contamination of the enteral nutrition delivery system (FS) has been well described. Case reports and prospective cohort studies suggest that bacterial contamination is a cause of morbidity and mortality in the critically ill patient. Because bacterial growth and replication is pH dependent, we hypothesized that acidified enteral feedings would lower incidence of bacterial contamination of the FS and potentially infectious morbidity and mortality of critically ill patients. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of acidified enteral feedings on bacterial growth in the FS and subsequent gastric and tracheal bacterial growth.

Design:

Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicenter study.

Setting:

Eight mixed intensive care units at tertiary care hospitals.

Patients:

We recruited mechanically ventilated critically ill patients expected to remain ventilated ≥48 hours. We excluded patients with overt gastrointestinal bleeding, persistent acidemia, and renal failure requiring dialysis. We enrolled 120 patients: women, 38%; age, 57.6 ± 19.3 years, and mean APACHE II score, 21.6 ± 7.6.

Interventions:

Vital High Nitrogen (Abbott Laboratories, Ross Products Division, Columbus, OH) was used as the standard feeding formula for the control group. Hydrochloric acid was added to achieve a pH to 3.5 in the experimental group.

Main Outcome Measures:

Microbial growth in the FS, stomach, and trachea.

Results:

Compared with patients in the control group, patients who received acid feedings were less likely to have potentially pathogenic microorganisms in their FSs (19% versus 80% of patients [p ≤ .001] and 0.1 versus 0.8 organisms per specimen [p ≤ .001]). There were 151 organisms that were cultured in two or more sites. Of the 146 organisms cultured from the stomach, 22 (15%) were first cultured in the feeding system and 32 (22%) were cultured simultaneously in the feeding system and the stomach. Of the 58 organisms cultured in the trachea, 19 (33%) were first cultured in the feeding system and 6 (10%) were cultured simultaneously in the feeding system and the trachea.

Conclusions:

The feeding system is a frequent source of gastric and tracheal contamination. Acidified enteral feedings reduces contamination of the feeding system and therefore may have an impact on subsequent colonization and infection. Larger studies of acidified enteral feedings are needed to examine their effect on infectious morbidity and mortality.
Psychosocial Issues in Heart Transplantation: A Review for Transplant Coordinators
Authors: Paris W , Brawner N , Thompson S , Penido M
Published: July 2017

The latest advances in medicine and technology are used to care for transplant recipients, yet many patients have psychosocial difficulties that technology alone cannot resolve. Although most healthcare professionals acknowledge the importance of the staff's role in working with patients to resolve psychosocial problems, little research has examined the nature of staff-patient relationships and the proven ability of good relationships to improve outcomes. The purposes of this paper are to profile psychosocial risk and its relationship to outcomes after heart transplantation, explore staff-patient interactions in dealing with psychosocial problems, and present a growth and development model that can be used as a theoretical base to establish a more therapeutic alliance with patients.
Reservations and Preferences among Procurement Professionals concerning the Donation of Specific Organs and Tissues
Authors: Verble Margaret , Worth Judy
Published: July 2017

Previous research has established that organ procurement professionals who talk with families about donation have strong personal preferences concerning the donation of specific organs and tissues. This study examines possible reasons for such preferences and compares them with those of hospital personnel who talk with families about donation. The findings suggest that preferences among procurement personnel closely resemble those of hospital personnel, but procurement professionals' reasons reflect a slightly higher rate of self-interest. Aversions among procurement personnel differ from those of hospital personnel. Procurement personnel have fewer aversions to donating eyes and skin and more aversions to bone, and their aversions are more likely to reflect professional experience with particular donations. The findings suggest the need for changes both in the way donation options are offered to families and the way hospital and procurement personnel are educated.
Planning and Implementing a Research Project: Part 2
Authors: Wood Geri L
Published: July 2017

This article is the second in a series of three focused on steps in the development of a research proposal. This second article presents the steps of research design, sampling, data collection procedures, and types of data collection instruments. The discussion of the steps focuses the reader on helpful hints pertinent to each step. Additional references are provided for a more detailed discussion of the process.
Organ Recovery from an 84-Year-Old Donor: A Case Study
Authors: Valerius Wendy , Lewis David D
Published: July 2017

To help meet the increasing need for transplantable organs, organ procurement organizations should consider evaluating all brain-dead patients, regardless of the upper age limit. This article outlines the successful recovery and transplantation of the liver of an 84-year-old donor. Organ placement and financial issues involved with the case are also discussed.
Improving the Request Process to Increase Family Consent for Organ Donation
Authors: Gortmaker Steven L. , Beasley Carol L. , Sheehy Ellen , Lucas Bruce A. , Brigham Lori E. , Grenvik Ake , Patterson Russel H. , Garrison R. Neal , McNamara Patrick , Evanisko Michael J.
Published: July 2017

The greatest impediment to organ donation is refusal of family consent. This study examined the impact of 3 modifiable elements of the donation request on family consent rates: (1) decoupling (ie, the family understands and accepts brain death before discussion of organ donation is begun); (2) the procurement coordinator participates in the request for consent; and (3) donation is requested in a quiet, private place. Data on the request process were collected prospectively for 707 medically suitable potential donors who had been referred to 3 organ procurement organizations. The average rate of consent for donation was 62.2%. Higher consent rates were independently associated with the 3 characteristics studied. These components were summarized in the Request Process Scale. Multivariate regression analyses indicated that consent rates can be as high as 74% when all 3 process elements are present. Hospitals and organ procurement organizations should incorporate these elements into their standard of practice when requesting organ donation.
Willingness to Donate Organs and Tissues in Vietnam
Authors: Hai Tran Bac , Eastlund Ted , Chien Le Anh , Duc Phan Thi Hong , Giang Tran Huong , Hoa Nguyen Thi Nguyen , Viet Phan Hong , Trung Duong Quang
Published: July 2017

Context

Few studies on public attitudes toward organ and tissue donation have been carried out in Asia.

Objective

To determine demographic influences on attitudes toward organ and tissue donation in Vietnam.

Design

Face-to-face interviews.

Setting

Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Participants

Random sample of adults (N=785).

Main Outcome Measures

Awareness of donation and transplantation, acceptance of organ and tissue donation.

Results

75% of respondents stated they had heard of organ or tissue donation, but only 55% were aware of organ and tissue transplantation taking place in Vietnam. Forty-eight percent of Buddhists and 27.5% of Christians had either no knowledge or incorrect knowledge about their religion's official position toward donation and transplantation. Sixty-four percent stated they would give consent for the donation of their deceased relative's tissues and organs, 66% would themselves become posthumous donors, and 21% to 22% would donate multiple organs and tissues. A significant association was found between respondents' acceptance of organ and tissue donation and their educational level, sex, occupation, and awareness of transplantation. Most respondents stated that their willingness to donate depended on whether other family members agreed. Many noted the importance of preventing commerce in organ and tissue transplantation but were in favor of providing healthcare for the donor's family or monetary incentives as a reward for donating.

Conclusion

Nearly two thirds of urban Vietnamese surveyed were willing to donate organs or tissues after death. Their willingness was related to awareness of transplantation, sex, education level, and occupation.
Influence of Thermal Treatment Conditions on the Recoil Compressive Strength of Kevlar-29 Fibers
Authors: Sweeney Daniel J. , Newell James A. , Picerno Stacy , Kurzeja Thomas
Published: July 2017

In this paper, thermal treatments of Kevlar-29 fiber resulted in a significant enhancement of compressive strength and corresponding decrease in tensile strength. These changes result from a decreased linearity at the macroscopic level in the fiber. Statistically designed experiments indicate that treatment temperature is the most significant variable in the thermal processing, while treatment soak time also played a role in the shift of properties.
Nanotribological Properties of Poly(ether ketone ketone) (PEKK) and Sulfonated Poly(ether ketone ketone) (S-PEKK) Thin Films
Authors: Song Caisheng , Chen Yiwang , Gan Daoji , Wang Zhijian
Published: July 2017

An atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to determine the nanotribological properties of poly(ether ketone ketone) (PEKK) and sulfonated poly(ether ketone ketone) (S-PEKK) thin films, by sliding the AFM tip on the polymer surfaces and stepwise increasing the loading forces on the cantilever. For comparison, a polystyrene (PS) film with surface roughness comparable to those of the PEKK and S-PEKK was also examined using the same procedure. It was found that the S-PEKK film exhibits much higher values of both the coefficient of friction and the adhesive force than the PEKK film, which exhibits slightly higher values than the PS film. The surface topographies of the polymer films captured after frictional measurements suggest that PEKK has much better wear resistance than PS, whereas S-PEKK displays some visco-elastic character.
Thermal Characteristics of Poly(Ethylene Oxide)/Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Interpenetrating Polymer Networks
Authors: Kim Seon Jeong , Lee Chang Kee , Kim Sun I.
Published: July 2017

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) were synthesized by radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate in the presence of PEO. Thermal properties were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dielectric analysis (DEA) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The DEA was employed to ascertain the glass transition temperature (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) of IPN. Tm for the IPNs was observed at 206 'C. The IPNs exhibited two Tgs, indicating the presence of phase separation in the IPN at -46.8 and 78.2 'C. The thermal decomposition of the IPNs occurred near 250 'C. The IPNs exhibited a higher weight retention at elevated temperature than the cross-linked homopolymer.
Synthesis and Characterization of 1, 3-Bis(Maleimido) Benzene-Modified and 1, 6-Bis(Maleimido) Hexane-Modified Epoxy-Novolac Interpenetrating Networks
Authors: Vanaja A. , Rao R. M. V. G. K.
Published: July 2017

Epoxy-novolac (EPN) resin was modified by blending with in-house-synthesized I, 3-bis(maleimido) benzene and 1, 6-bis(maleimido) hexane. These blends were cured with 4, 4'-methylenedianiline. The cure behaviour of these systems was studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at different blend compositions of bismaleimide (BMI) varied between 5 and 15% by weight. The thermograms indicated a unimodal exothermic peak for blends containing lower percentages of bismaleimide. All the cured blends showed much higher glass transition temperatures (Tg) than that of the host matrix, namely unmodified epoxy-novolac resin. The thermal stability as studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of the cured EPN resin was found to improve with BMI blending and varied with the type of BM1. A homogeneous structure of these blends with no phase separation was confirmed both by DSC analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Studies of Thermal Imidization Kinetics of Polyisoimide Based upon 4,4′-[1,4-Phenylenebis-(1-methyl ethylidene)] Bisaniline and 4,4′-Oxydiphthalic Anhydride in Solid State
Authors: Kim Young Jun , Kim Ji-Heung , Won Jong Chan
Published: July 2017

The curing kinetics of the polyisoimide (BIS-P/ODPA), based upon 4,4′-[1,4-phenylene-bis-(1- methyl ethylidene)] bisaniline (Bis-P) and 4,4′-oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA), was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The glass transition temperatures of the partially imidized polyisoimides (Bis-P/ODPA) were measured by DSC as a function of fractional conversion. The thermal imidization of polyisoimides in the solid state showed a maximum degree of imidization that can be achieved at a given isothermal temperature probably due to the diffusion-controlled reaction characteristics near vitrification ( T g effect). Dynamic curing studies were performed at different heating rates of 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30°1. These data were analyzed for obtaining the activation energy and pre-exponetial value for the imidization reaction. The thermal imidization was well described by first-order kinetics with activation energy of 181-202 kJ mol−1 and the pre-exponential factor of 36-40 min−1.
Arylidene Polymers VII. Synthesis and Characterization of New Polyesters of Diarylidenecycloalkanones Containing an Azo Group in the Main Chain
Authors: Abd-Alla Mohamed A. , Aly Kamal I. , Hammam Ahmed S.
Published: July 2017

A new interesting class of linear, unsaturated polyesters based on diarylidenecycloalkanones containing an azo linkage in the polymer main chain have been synthesized by interfacial polycondensation of 4,4′-azodibenzoyl chloride or 3,3′-azodibenzoyl chloride with 2,5-bis(p-hydroxybenzylidene)cyclopentanone, 2,5-divanillylidenecyclopentanone, 2,6-bis(p-hydroxybenzylidene)cyclohexanone and 2,6-divanillylidenecyclohexanone at ambient temperature. The resulting polyesters were characterized by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, solubility and viscometry measurements. The thermal properties of the polymers were evaluated by TGA and DSC measurements and correlated to their structural units. X-ray analysis of the polymers showed that polyesters based on the meta azo linkage were totally amorphous whereas, polyesters with the para azo linkage had some degree of crystallinity. The UV-visible spectra of certain polymers were measured in m-cresol solution and showed a characteristic absorption band at 438-465 nm due to n-π* transition. In addition, the electrical properties of all polyesters were measured.
Peristaltic transport of bi-viscosity fluids through a curved tube: A mathematical model for intestinal flow
Authors: Tripathi Dharmendra , Akbar Noreen Sher , Khan ZH , Bég O Anwar
Published: July 2017

The human intestinal tract is a long, curved tube constituting the final section of the digestive system in which nutrients and water are mostly absorbed. Motivated by the dynamics of chyme in the intestine, a mathematical model is developed to simulate the associated transport phenomena via peristaltic transport. Rheology of chyme is modelled using the Nakamura–Sawada bi-viscosity non-Newtonian formulation. The intestinal tract is considered as a curved tube geometric model. Low Reynolds number (creeping hydrodynamics) and long wavelength approximations are taken into consideration. Analytical solutions of the moving boundary value problem are derived for velocity field, pressure gradient and pressure rise. Streamline flow visualization is achieved with Mathematica symbolic software. Peristaltic pumping phenomenon and trapping of the bolus are also examined. The influence of curvature parameter, apparent viscosity coefficient (rheological parameter) and volumetric flow rate on flow characteristics is described. Validation of analytical solutions is achieved with a MAPLE17 numerical quadrature algorithm. The work is relevant to improving understanding of gastric hydrodynamics and provides a benchmark for further computational fluid dynamic simulations.
African Settlements in Gujarat
Authors: Patel Jayanti K.
Published: July 2017

Indian settlements in Africa are a well-known fact. Studies have been made about their presence and problems. Similarly, there are some African settlements in India. Their presence was first noted by T.H. Esquire as far back as 1926.1 However, so far their presence was noted as a novelty or only in Census Reports. Recently some studies about their social and economic activity have been published. There are some African settlements in Gujarat as Gujarat has had a long tradition of trade with the eastern coast of Africa. The total population of these Africans in Gujarat is nearly five thousand; 3000 of them stay in Saurashtra.2 In the Junagadh District of Saurashtra a small hamlet Jambur, ensconced on the fringe of the Gir Forest between the rivers Saraswati and Karkari, is inhabited entirely (population 500) by Africans.3 Other than this the Africans are settled in mixed areas of Broach, Kutch and Ahmedabad district in Gujarat.
Issues, Concepts and Theory of Poverty in Nigeria
Authors: Ade-Lawal Najeem
Published: July 2017

Administrators usually prefer to think of themselves as “men of action.” Perhaps they are. But one thing is certain, namely, that every decision arrived at by such men of public affairs is informed by their own “theories” of the phenomenon - to which the policies and measures deriving from it are addressed. And this is so even when the administrators fail to make explicit the theoretical basis of their decisions. It is so even when they themselves are not fully and consciously aware of the theories that they are using. Furthermore, any policy decision is only as good as the theory which informed its formulations; and wrong theories of a problem can produce only wrong “diagnosis” of it and wrong decisions as to how to deal with it. This is true whether the particular problem in question is lung cancer or mass poverty.1

The most serious social problem undermining progress in the world today is poverty. It has emerged as an important social issue in many developed and developing countries: Yet, it is difficult to say that an end of the war against poverty is in sight. Rowntree and Lavers argued, that the policies of the welfare state—full employment, provision for emergencies and so on—had almost entirely eradicated “primary poverty” in Britain where the war on poverty has gone on longest? It is also true to say that the basic structure of economic and social relations which generates poverty as a byproduct of its normal functioning has remained largely unscathed in the prolonged campaign.

This paper will assume three considerations contrary to conventional notions, that (1) a particular power configuration in the past provided the-social setting of the current poverty structure; (2) the present structure of power determines the nature and effectiveness of poverty policies; and (3) that successful elimination depends on the future of power constellations in the country.
Disruption and Innovation: Online Learning and Degrees at Accredited Journalism Schools and Programs
Authors: Castañeda Laura
Published: July 2017

This study examined online journalism courses and degree programs (also known as distance learning or distance education) at the 113 programs accredited in 2008–2009 by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). A web survey, which garnered a response rate of 72%, and interviews with faculty members and administrators found that 13% of programs now offer or plan to offer online degrees. Viewed through innovation theories, these and other results suggest that online journalism programs may grow, and early innovators could carve out new markets of nontraditional students.
Issues in the Economic Evaluation of Treatments for Menopausal Symptoms
Authors: Fleurence Rachael L
Published: July 2017

A considerable number of menopausal women are affected by climacteric symptoms and, in the context of scarce health care resources, economic evaluations of interventions to alleviate them provide valuable information to decision makers. Relatively few evaluations of interventions solely aimed at reducing menopausal symptoms have been identified in the literature. This can be explained by the need to incorporate long term risks and benefits of treatments such as hormone replacement therapy as well as the short term effects. Moreover, little empirical work has been done to date on eliciting valuations of health states from women. It appears that many studies based on assumptions have underestimated the impact of menopausal symptoms on women's quality of life and more research is required in this area.
Cost Effectiveness of Bone Density Measurements
Authors: Brown Matthew A , Bradlow Jean , Gray Alastair M
Published: July 2017

Objective

To assess the cost-effectiveness of bone density screening programmes for osteoporosis.

Study design

Using published and locally available data regarding fracture rates and treatment costs, the overall costs per fracture prevented, cost per quality of life year (QALY) saved and cost per year of life gained were estimated for different bone density screening and osteoporosis treatment programmes.

Main outcome measures

Cost per fracture prevented, cost per QALY saved, and cost per year of life gained.

Results

In women over the age of 50 years, the costs per fracture prevented of treating all women with hormone replacement therapy, or treating only if osteoporosis is demonstrated on bone density screening were £32,594 or £23,867 respectively. For alendronate therapy for the same groups, the costs were £171,067 and £14,067 respectively. Once the background rate of treatment with alendronate reaches 18%, bone density screening becomes cost-saving. Costs estimates per QALY saved ranged from £1,514 to £39,076 for osteoporosis treatment with alendronate following bone density screening.

Conclusions

For relatively expensive medications such as alendronate, treatment programmemes with prior bone density screening are far more cost effective than those without, and in some circumstances become cost-saving. Costs per QALY of life saved and per year of life gained for osteoporosis treatment with prior bone density screening compare favourably with treatment of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia.
Androgens and the Menopause
Authors: Davies Susan R
Published: July 2017

The menopause results in acute reductions in circulating levels of oestradiol, and hence standard hormone replacement therapy is oestrogen based. There is now increasing interest in the physiological sequelae to the declining levels of circulating androgens which occur in women with increasing age. Women who have undergone a surgical menopause may experience a variety of physical symptoms secondary to their reduced androgen levels and can be offered testosterone replacement. Women who undergo natural menopause may also have symptoms secondary to androgen depletion and similarly may benefit by the use of testosterone. This review addresses the changes in androgens in women with age and the rationale for physiological androgen replacement as part of a hormone replacement therapy regimen in postmenopausal women.
Non HRT Options for the Treatment of Osteoporosis
Authors: Davies Michael
Published: July 2017

Osteoporosis is now a treatable condition with an abundance of evidence for the efficacy of certain therapeutic strategies in preventing recurrent fractures. Most of these treatments act by improving bone mineral density through inhibition or reduction of bone resorption. For those women who are unable to take HRT; bisphosphonates, calcium, vitamin D, calcitriol or calcitonin may confer certain benefits. The bisphosphonate alendronate reduces both vertebral and long bone fractures, an effect seen soon after starting treatment. The changes in BMD and fracture reduction are less with the use of etidronate but it is certainly beneficial in reducing recurrent vertebral fracture. In the elderly calcium and vitamin D in combination can reduce non-vertebral and hip fracture and supplemental calcium of 1 g/day has been predicted to reduce bone loss and thus hip fractures by 22%.

Evidence that calcitriol or calcitonin reduce fracture incidence is not good but calcitonin has been shown to have analgesic properties in those with acute vertebral fracture. The role of calcitriol is less certain and should be reserved for women with vertebral fractures in whom HRT or bisphosphonates cannot be used.
The Epidemiology of Coronary Heart Disease and HRT What are the Contentious Issues?
Authors: Newton John N
Published: July 2017

Coronary heart disease (CHD) in women is an important public health problem although not one that generates much public concern. Most doctors seem to believe that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can reduce the incidence of heart disease in women after the menopause but the evidence for this is contentious.

Epidemiological studies have consistently shown a cardioprotective effect for HRT. Critics suggest that these studies are flawed because women who take HRT may be healthier than others in ways that have not been assessed in the studies. Large primary prevention trials are under way but such studies are extremely difficult to design and conduct and may yet fail to provide the conclusive results needed to resolve the debate. An important randomised trial of HRT in secondary prevention has recently been published showing no benefit in the short term but a possible long term benefit.

In practice, the potential public health impact of HRT in the prevention of CHD will be limited by current public attitudes to the safety of HRT, and the reluctance of older women to take HRT for prolonged periods. Women with established CHD or diabetes might benefit more from HRT, but are currently less likely to receive it.
Alzheimer's Disease, Acetylcholine and Oestrogen
Authors: Perry Elaine
Published: July 2017

Common types of dementia occurring in old age are associated with the loss of cholinergic activity from basal forebrain neurons projecting to the cerebral cortex. In Alzheimer's disease this loss correlates with cognitive decline, and in dementia with Lewy bodies with neuropsychiatric features such a hallucinations. New therapies aimed at restoring the levels of acetylcholine, such as the cholinesterase inhibitors tacrine or donepezil, provide some symptomatic benefit and may also be protective. Similar symptomatic and protective effects of oestrogen may operate through stimulation of the affected cholinergic neurons. These neurons have oestrogen receptors and, in animal models, oestrogen elevates cortical cholinergic activity. Cholinergic control of vasodilation is also affected by oestrogen. Declining oestrogen in postmenopausal women is thus likely to contribute to age-related cognitive decline and increased risk of Alzheimer's via cholinergic mechanisms. In addition to accumulating evidence of the protective effect of oestrogen in Alzheimer's, there is already a report that oestrogen replacement therapy enhances the response of female patients to cholinergic medication (eg, tacrine).
Preaching to the Converted - or Teaching the Unconverted A Format for Education on the Menopause for Medical Practitioners
Authors: Mander AM , Edozien GY
Published: July 2017

The general state of education regarding the menopause at undergraduate, postgraduate and senior doctor level in the primary and secondary health care fields is reviewed. It covers the problems of awareness of the menopause, the potential for preventing mortality and morbidity amongst the ageing female population and discusses why existing clinical knowledge currently available is not in fact widely utilised in clinical practice. It concludes that there are serious problems with medical education in this area, especially amongst established senior doctors in many disciplines.

The article suggests the format for education about the menopause for undergraduates, including the mention of problem based learning on the new curriculum. It includes the flexible format for education on the menopause and concludes that unless widespread audits are done to establish improve benefits both in healthcare provision in the reduction of disease and also showing the enormous economic benefits it is unlikely that much will be achieved in implementing existing knowledge into clinical practice. If this is to happen, then medical practitioners should be adequately trained and educated about the menopause and its management.
Herbal Remedies as a Treatment of Some Frequent Symptoms During Menopause
Authors: Ernst Edzard
Published: July 2017

Many menopausal women try herbal remedies hoping to find an effective and safe form of treatment. The lay literature abounds with recommendations most of which are unsubstantiated. Systematic reviews exist for black cohosh, a promising remedy for neurovegetative menopausal symptoms. Data generated on non-menopausal patient populations also suggest that feverfew has some potential for preventing migraine, St John's Wort is an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression, valerian may alleviate insomnia and kava is an effective anxiolytic. The safety profiles of these remedies are encouraging. Before strong recommendations for the use of these or other herbal remedies can be issued, more conclusive research, in particular trials conducted on menopausal women, need to become available.