bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Vacuum and/or Pressure Forming System Using a Prepreg Sheet of FRP with a Gel Coat Layer
Authors: Fukada Akihiko , Kohama Katsumi , Abe Tomohisa , Okamoto Hiroshi
Published: July 2017

This paper introduces a new vacuum and/or pressure forming system using a prepreg sheet which consists of two thickened layers of unsaturated polyester, i.e., FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) and gel coat layers, sandwiched by two stretchable films. The efforts were focused on the development of sheet construction, material properties and processing conditions. The difficulties in the development of this system are found in;

1. uneven thickness distribution in a molding

2. vaporization of vinyl monomer

3. gel coat cracks

These difficulties were solved by the chemical modifications of resin such as;

1. unifying the apparent tensile modulus of each layer by controlling the viscosity

2. reducing the maximum exothermal temperature

3. shortening the gel time

and by the physical modifications of processing conditions such as selection of an appropriate forming rate.

The expected application area of this new system is also mentioned briefly.
Free Vibration of Fiber Composite Thin Shells in a Hot Environment
Authors: Gotsis Pascal K. , Guptill James D.
Published: July 2017

Results are presented of parametric studies to assess the effects of various parameters on the free vibration behavior (natural frequencies) of [±θ]2 angle-ply fiber composite thin shells in a hot environment. These results were obtained by using a threedimensional finite element structural analysis computer code. The fiber composite shell is assumed to be cylindrical and made from T300 graphite fibers embedded in an intermediate-modulus high-strength matrix (IMHS). The residual stresses induced into the laminated structure during the curing are taken into account. The following parameters are investigated: the length and the thickness of the shell, the fiber orientations, the fiber volume fraction, the temperature profile through the thickness of the laminate and the different ply thicknesses. Results obtained indicate that: the fiber orientations and the length of the laminated shell had significant effect on the natural frequencies. The fiber volume fraction, the laminate thickness and the temperature profile through the shell thickness had a weak effect on the natural frequencies. Finally, the laminates with different ply thicknesses had insignificant influence on the behavior of the vibrated laminated shell.
Creep Behavior of Fiber-Reinforced Polymeric Composites: A Review of the Technical Literature
Authors: Scott David W. , Lai James S. , Zureick Abdul-Hamid
Published: July 2017

This report provides a review of the technical literature related to the creep behavior of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. The review presented here was directed toward those papers that define the direction and line of thinking in the area of experimental techniques that may be candidates for the development of accelerated test methods to predict the long-term performance of FRP composite materials for highway structural applications. Linear and nonlinear viscoelastic theories as they relate to the modeling and prediction of the viscoelastic response of FRP materials under constant loads are included. Accelerated characterization techniques for the viscoelastic behavior of FRP composites including the use of elevated temperatures and frequency domain loading are reviewed. The effects of moisture and temperature on the creep behavior of composites are briefly considered. The interaction between creep behavior and fatigue behavior is also included in the discussion.
Numerical Analysis of the Experimental Mechanical Properties in Polyester Resins Reinforced with Natural Fibers
Authors: Garcia-Zetina F. , Martinez E. , Alvarez-Castillo A. , Castano V. M.
Published: July 2017

A numerical analysis based on polynomial interpolation was done to fit the experimental results of the mechanical characterization of a composite made of polyester resin and short natural fiber (palma samandoca-zacate). The experimental tensile strength of the composite was compared to the one obtained from a theoretical model. A correction factor, attributed to the empty spaces (voids) formed between the resin and the fibers, was necessary for fitting the experimental data. The behavior of this factor as a function of the fiber volume fraction showed that a polynomial interpolation could be used to approximate this function and then predict any point over the appropriate range.
Stochastic Finite Element Method for Laminated Composite Structures
Authors: Park J. S. , Kim C. G. , Hong C. S.
Published: July 2017

The stochastic finite element method based on second moment method is developed for the probabilistic analysis of laminated composite structures in which physical properties have uncertainties and variability. The material properties, fiber angles, laminate thickness, and curvatures are modeled as random parameters. The first order shear deformable shell element is employed in application. Numerical results are presented for three example problems. The validity and accuracy of the method are verified through comparison of the present results with those obtained by the Monte Carlo simulation. Statistics of strains and stresses are derived very accurately by considering the randomness of the strain-displacement relation and principal material directions. The probability distribution of structural responses of composite structures can be assumed to be normal distribution, and therefore, can be evaluated quantitatively.
Constitutive Relations of a Damaged Composite Laminate with Nonsymmetric Constrained Cracking
Authors: Yu Hua , Qingzhi He , Zhengneng Li , Changhe Kou
Published: July 2017

The constitutive relations are developed for a damaged composite laminate in which a transversely cracked lamina is nonsymmetrically constrained by neighboring layers. The derivation is based on an approximate elasticity theory approach. The stiffnesses variation in cracked laminates is expressed as a function of the crack density. The stiffness degradation for the cracked laminates with more general layups can be predicted by using these relations.
Dynamic Response of Composite Cylinders Subjected to a Moving Internal Pressure
Authors: Tzeng J. T. , Hopkins D. A.
Published: July 2017

The dynamic response of a composite cylinder subjected to a moving pressure is investigated. The flexural wave in the wall of cylinder is modeled using both closed form analytic and finite element methods. Results indicate that very high amplitude and high frequency strains are induced in the cylinder at the instant and location of pressure front passage as the velocity of pressure front approaches the propagation velocity of the flexural wave. The dynamic amplification effects are especially critical for overwrapped composite cylinders because of the multi-material construction, anisotropy of material properties, thermal degradation of material properties, and the design goals inherent in lightweight structures applications.
Effect of Moulding Temperature on Flexure, Impact Strength and Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of CF/PEI Composite
Authors: Hou Meng , Ye Lin , Mai Yiu-Wing
Published: July 2017

The effects of processing conditions on the mechanical properties of a CF/PEI woven fabric composite have been investigated. A compression moulding procedure using a hot press was applied to simulate the effects of various processing conditions. The mechanical properties of the CF/PEI composite were characterised by flexure, impact strength and interlaminar fracture tests in relation to the consolidation quality. Consolidation quality was studied through void content and density measurement. The results indicated that the consolidation quality of the composites was highly dependent on the processing temperature. The flexure properties. Mode I and Mode II fracture toughness for crack initiation and Mode II interlaminar fracture growth resistance correlated directly with consolidation quality. However, the Charpy impact strength and Mode I interlaminar fracture growth resistance both increased as the void content was increased because of a “multiple-crack” failure mechanism.
Strength of Composite T-Joints under Pull-Out Loads
Authors: Theotokoglou Efstathios E.
Published: July 2017

This paper examines the non-linear deflection response of highly stressed sandwich T-joints using large deflection and plasticity analyses. The finite element method considering a plane model of the joint, accounts for plastic deformation of the core and glue materials and non-linear geometric effects. The finite element studies are used to identify internal stress states in the various regions of the joint and for different attachment configurations, leading up to and at failure. The results of this analysis have been combined with the measured properties of the materials forming the joint in order to predict quantitatively the failure strength.
A Comparative Overview of Strain Actuated Surfaces' Design
Authors: Santini Paolo , Gasbarri Paolo , Altobelli Matteo , Rossi Anna
Published: July 2017

In this paper two different approaches to design of strain actuated lifting surfaces are compared with each other and with a classical aeroelastic tailoring method.

Piezoelectric actuation is accomplished by piezo-patches embedded in the wing's composite lay-up and piezoelectric ribs (piezo-ribs) placed spanwise.

If the piezoelectric patches are isotropic in their plane they can not directly induce any twist effect in the wing. Thus, in this case, the wing can undergo twisting only as an effect of the coupling (due to tailoring and wing sweep angle) between bending and twisting torques.

When piezoelectric patches are used, this configuration is not yet the most effective one. In fact, the largest electromechanical coupling coefficient, which is the one in the direction of the applied electric field, is not thoroughly exploited.

On the other hand, piezo-ribs are able to induce not only bending but also pure twisting deformation and exploit the largest electromechanic coupling effect so they may provide the designer with a higher control authority. However, this kind of control involves larger weight.

In this paper, aeroelastic wing performance for these different configurations is analyzed. Moreover, the comparison is also made in terms of energy consumption.

Numerical examples complete the work.
Slip Flow in Partially Filled Screw Channel
Authors: Cheng Jianya , Xie Yifan , Bigio David I. , Briber Robert M.
Published: July 2017

In polymer extrusion, occurrence of wall slip can considerably alter the flow and mixing behavior. In most cases, it occurs in partially filled screw channels because starved feeding is very common in industrial processing. In this paper an analytical model was developed to study the extrusion flow of Newtonian fluids with wall slip in a partially filled single screw extruder. Based on this analysis, the change of flow due to wall slip phenomenon was analyzed. The effects of percent channel fill, wall slip coefficient and viscosity on the flow and mixing are investigated.
Investigations on the Role of Foam Layers in the Failure of Glass-Epoxy Composite Subjected to Repeated Impacts
Authors: Venkatraman S. , Kishore
Published: July 2017

The comparative performance of repeatedly low mass pendulum impacted glass-epoxy (G-E) composites without and with the inclusion of either two or three (sheet) layers of flexible foam at the mid-region of the laminate is reported. Using square cross section specimens, the orientation of the test coupon was altered with respect to the impact direction such that in one case the G-E part, and the foam layers, constituting the system, were lying parallel (edgewise) and in the second case perpendicular (flatwise). The features of impact tested coupons, observed through macroscopy, were correlated with the mechanical data.
Fracture and Fatigue Analysis of 15% Chopped Glass Fiber Reinforced PTFE
Authors: Zhang Z. , Aglan H. , Faughnan P. , Bryan C.
Published: July 2017

The fracture and fatigue behavior of 15% chopped glass fiber reinforced PTFE was studied. Two fracture regions were observed with the static tensile failure of this material. Torn ligament bundles, pulled out fibers and microfibrillation are the fracture surface features associated with the first region. These features were responsible for the initial slow crack observed during tensile loading. The second region was characterized by a smoother surface with little damage associated features resulting in an unstable crack propagation. The Modified Crack Layer Model was used to analyze the fatigue crack propagation behavior of the material. The fatigue fracture surface of the 15% glass fiber reinforced PTFE showed three distinct regions. These regions were comparable in location with the three stages of fatigue crack propagation (FCP) kinetics of this material. A large number of torn fracture ligaments and long fibrils were observed in the first region, which is associated with the threshold state of FCP. Extensive random fibrillation was found in the second fracture region which was associated with the second stage of FCP kinetics (stage of reduced acceleration). Undrawn matrix, very little fibrillation and a smooth surface were the fracture surface features of the third region. This region was associated with the third stage, unstable crack propagation, of FCP kinetics.
The Influence of Flow Conditions and Injection Parameters on the Bond Strength of Compatible Material Combinations
Authors: Kuhmann K. , Ehrenstein G. W.
Published: July 2017

In multi-component injection molding of rigid/rigid and rigid/flexible thermoplast combinations, e.g., ABS/PBT or PA/TPU, the attainable bond strength of the composite is important under both mechanical load and influence of media. The bond strength is influenced not only by the material combination and the process parameters but also by flow and cooling conditions in the mold as well as by the part design.

In this work the injection molding process is experimentally analyzed by molding specimens out of two compatible thermoplasts under variation of the processing conditions. The bond strength is characterized by tensile tests. It is shown, that the achieved bond strength depends strongly on the distance from the gate and the flow direction in addition to the injection parameters.
Modeling of Void Growth in Partial Frame Process
Authors: Kim Dong-Hak , Ahn Kyung H.
Published: July 2017

Modeling of the void growth in Partial Frame Process (PFP) was carried out by assuming that the shrinkage due to temperature difference is compensated by the growth of void, and the results will be presented in the talk. By comparing the results with the experimental data, basic assumptions will be justified and the mechanism of the void growth will be explained in terms of the process parameters. Experimental study has also been carried out based on the design of experiments (DOE) to see the effects of the process parameters on the void growth length.
Simulation and Analysis of Three-Dimensional Polymer Flow in Injection Moulding
Authors: Zachert Jurgen , Michaeli Walter
Published: July 2017

A FDM-program for the simulation of three-dimensional flow during the metal die-casting process has been adapted to injection moulding. The polymer flow in areas with sudden wall thickness changes is calculated with the modified program. The results are compared to experiments with a special mould. This mould allows the flow-observation by a high-speed video camera from two different directions, so three-dimensional effects can be analyzed. Simulation and experiment show a good correspondance. In comparison to a regular two-dimensional, shell-element based simulation the flow front progress is predicted more accurately.
Surface Analysis of Phenolic Composites Obtained By RTM Process
Authors: Avérous Luc , Gauvin R.
Published: July 2017

Phenolic composites coupled with RTM process are being used more and more on the automation market. One of the major problems encountered is the surface aspect of the fabric produced due to volatile and air entrapment on the surface in contact with the mould. To improve the process is necessary to primarily develop adequate techniques dedicated to surface analysis. Different techniques have been developed: Image analysis and roughness determinations. Image analysis techniques allow to determine surface aspect parameters such as the area fraction or to establish granulometric repartition in sizes of the open pores. This tool seems to be adapted to the surface aspect analysis. Finally, for the process we have noticed an interest using surface veils to improve the surface aspect of the fabrics in order to eliminate the gelcoat phase.
Investigation of the Fatigue Behavior of SCS-Ultra/Ti-6-4
Authors: Calcaterra J. R. , Mall S.
Published: July 2017

The focus of this study is to evaluate the fatigue behavior of SCS-Ultra/Ti6-4 at 4270C. The improvement in ultimate strength over SCS-6/Ti-6-4 was less than expected and the fatigue lives of the new material were much shorter at all stress levels. Posttest evaluation with a scanning electron microscope revealed several processing flaws in the new composites. Because of these flaws, the SCS-Ultra fibers failed at a lower composite stress than predicted and there were numerous crack initiation sites to greatly accelerate the progression of damage in fatigue tests. Despite the poor fatigue performance of the SCS-Ultra/Ti-6-4 specimens, this material shows promise for greatly increased ultimate strength. Both the stress and strain to failure are greater than SCS-6/Ti-6-4, even with the previously mentioned processing defects.
A Mechanical Model for the Prediction of the Elastic Properties of Polymeric Resins Reinforced with Liquid Crystal Polymers
Authors: Blanas A. M. , Kontou E. , Spathis G.
Published: July 2017

The mechanical behavior of semicrystalline polymeric resins reinforced with short fiber liquid crystal polymers (LCP) under mechanical loading has been investigated. A micromechanical approach is considered and a representative unit cell model is developed and employed in conjunction with the finite element method of analysis to predict the effective elastic properties of the composite. The advantage of such an approach is that it could contain an improved reference to the microstructural elements by including their geometric description and their non-isotropic behavior. In the present work, the composite is assumed to be macroscopically homogeneous and linearly elastic with periodic fiber distribution array. The finite element method was used in the solution of the micromechanical boundary value problem. Three-dimensional models of the representative unit cell were generated. Models with varying short fiber geometry and volume fractions were developed and a number of boundary conditions and loading cases were used in the analysis. Displacement and stress fields in the composite are obtained and used in the calculation of the effective composite properties. Polypropylene composites reinforced with short fiber Vectra LCP in various volume fractions were fabricated. Tensile experiments were performed. The model predicted effective properties are in good agreement with micromechanical equations values and experimental results.
Large Amplitude Vibration of Polymer Composite Stiffened Laminates by the Finite Element Method
Authors: Goswami Sanjib , Kant Tarun
Published: July 2017

Large amplitude free flexural vibration analyses of composite stiffened plates have been carried out using a C nine noded Lagrangian element. The element, capable of incorporating curved boundaries, is based on the first order shear deformation theory. The large deformation effect of the stiffened plated structures has been taken care of by the dynamic version of von Karman's field equations. The resulting nonlinear equations have been solved by the direct iteration technique using linear mode shapes as the starting vectors. The stiffeners have been modeled with the same shape functions as that of plate element enforcing compatibility without introduction of additional unknowns. A large number of problems of isotropic and composite bare and stiffened plates have been analyzed to validate the formulation and some new results have been put forward for future reference.
Control Volume Analysis of Feed Flow in Extruders
Authors: Derezinski Stephen J.
Published: July 2017

The motion of the feed in a single-screw extruder is calculated with the use of a triangular control volume to determine the feed velocity and direction. A cylindrical coordinate system with a rotating screw is used to obtain torque, force, and energy balances needed to determine the developing stress (pressure) and temperature of the feed plug. The resulting equations can be easily programmed for evaluation with a personal computer.
Judging the Quality of Work-Related, Self-Directed Learning
Authors: Caffarella Rosemary S. , O'Donnell Judith M.
Published: July 2017

Provided in this exploratory study is a description of how one group of adult learners describe how they determine the quality of their work-related, self-directed learning activities. Data were collected from training and development professionals by means of focus groups and analyzed using the constant comparative method of data analysis. Five themes that emerged from the data are outlined, followed by a discussion of the issues and implications for research.
Civic Education: An Adult Education Imperative
Authors: Boggs D. L.
Published: July 2017

The proposition is argued that the primal contribution of adult education in a democracy, before all other purposes it serves, is civic education. A corollary position is that reluctance to facilitate citizen understanding of civic problems and skillful participation in solutions leaves adult education agencies on the sidelines in this most important sphere of adult life and furthers the current American retreat to privatism. Conditions affecting the substance of adult civic education are described. The possibilities for advocacy on the part of adult educators are also discussed.
Book Review
Authors: Leptak Jeffrey
Published: July 2017

Rohfeld, Rae Wahl, (Ed.). (1990). Expanding access to knowledge: Continuing higher education. Washington, DC: National University Continuing Education Association, 265 pages. $16.95, paperback, $29.95 hardcover.
Managing Epilepsy in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Thiele Elizabeth Anne
Published: July 2017

Epilepsy is very common in tuberous sclerosis complex and occurs in 80 to 90% of affected individuals during their lifetime. Onset usually occurs during childhood, and up to one third of children with tuberous sclerosis complex will develop infantile spasms. Although not completely understood, the incidence of epilepsy is thought to relate to the neuropathologic features of the disorder, including cortical tubers and other dysgenetic features. Individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex frequently have epileptiform features to their electroencephalograms. Treatment of epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex is similar to epilepsy resulting from other causes and includes anticonvulsant medications, the vagus nerve stimulator, and the ketogenic diet. Vigabatrin has been shown to be particularly effective in treating infantile spasms in the setting of tuberous sclerosis complex. Epilepsy surgery has a very important role in the management of children and adults with pharmacoresistant epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex. ( J Child Neurol 2004;19:680—686).
Epilepsy Surgery for Children With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Weiner Howard L. , Ferraris Nina , LaJoie Josiane , Miles Daniel , Devinsky Orrin
Published: July 2017

Tuberous sclerosis complex is associated with medically refractory seizures and developmental delay in children. These epilepsies are often resistant to antiepileptic drugs, can be quite severe, and usually have a negative impact on the child's neurologic and cognitive development. It is believed that functional outcome is improved if seizures can be controlled at an early age. The surgical treatment of intractable epilepsy in children and adults with tuberous sclerosis complex has gained significant interest in recent years. Previously published studies have shown a potential benefit from resection of single tubers, with most of the results noted in relatively older children. All of these reports support the idea that if a single primary epileptogenic tuber or region can be identified, then a surgical approach is appropriate. However, most children with tuberous sclerosis complex have multiple potentially epileptogenic tubers, rendering localization challenging, and they are therefore rejected as possible surgical candidates. We have used a novel surgical approach using invasive intracranial monitoring, which is typically multistaged and bilateral. This multistage surgical approach has been useful in identifying both primary and secondary epileptogenic zones in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex with multiple tubers. Multiple or bilateral seizure foci are not necessarily a contraindication to surgery in selected patients. Long-term follow-up will determine whether this approach has durable effects. We await better methods for identifying the epileptogenic zone, both noninvasive and invasive. ( J Child Neurol 2004; 19:687-689).
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection and Neurologic Abnormalities: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kho Nathaniel , Kerrigan John F. , Tong Timothy , Browne Richard , Knilans Janet
Published: July 2017

Respiratory syncytial virus is a common cause of acute respiratory infection in children. Previous reports have associated respiratory syncytial virus infection and acute neurologic symptoms, including apnea and seizures. This study examined the prevalence of acute neurologic symptoms associated with respiratory syncytial virus and non—respiratory syncytial virus respiratory infections in children requiring admission to a pediatric intensive care unit. We screened all admissions over a 4-year period at a single center, identifying children between birth and 2 years of age with bronchiolitis or acute upper respiratory infection. Children with a history of prematurity, preexisting medical conditions, or prior neurologic problems were excluded. Retrospective chart review of 236 admissions was conducted, identifying the etiology of respiratory infection and the presence or absence of acute neurologic signs or symptoms. This study demonstrated a prevalence of acute neurologic signs or symptoms in 36.4% of respiratory syncytial virus—negative patients ( n = 115) and 39.1% in the respiratory syncytial virus—positive group ( n = 121). Apnea, the most common symptom, was observed in 19.8% of respiratory syncytial virus—positive cases and 16.5% of —negative patients. Seizures were reported in 6.6% of the positive cases and in 12.2% of the negative cohort. These differences showed no statistical significance. Although neurologic signs and symptoms are common in this population of children with acute respiratory infection, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of neurologic problems between respiratory syncytial virus—positive and —negative patients. ( J Child Neurol 2004; 19:859-864).
Cerebral Palsy: Correlation of Risk Factors and Functional Performance Using the Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM)
Authors: Wong Virginia , Chung Brian , Hui Stella , Fong Angie , Lau Candice , Law Betty , Lo Kyle , Shum Tracy , Wong Raymond
Published: July 2017

We studied the risk factors affecting the functional status of cerebral palsy. A cross-sectional study of 73 children with cerebral palsy was conducted with the Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM), which assesses functional skills in the domains of self-care, mobility, and cognition. The mean total Functional Independence Measure for Children quotient was 67.5%. The mean subquotients for self-care, mobility, and cognition were 68.3%, 62.7%, and 69.4%, respectively. The risk factors related to the degree of functional dependency were (1) mental retardation ( P = .030), (2) epilepsy ( P = .005), (3) type of cerebral palsy ( P < .001), and (4) severity of cerebral palsy using the Gross Motor Function Classification System ( P < .001) (using univariate analysis). However, when using multivariate analysis, only epilepsy ( P = .02) and severity status according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System ( P < .001) were significantly related. When the etiology was analyzed, only prematurity was significantly associated with better Functional Independence Measure for Children scores using both univariate ( P = .022) and multivariate ( P = .007) analyses. The functional status of children with cerebral palsy depends on the severity and the presence of epilepsy. Despite impairment, we found that most children with cerebral palsy could achieve functional independence. ( J Child Neurol 2004;19:887—893).
How Can the Internet Help Parents of Children With Rare Neurologic Disorders?
Authors: Leonard Helen , Slack-Smith Linda , Phillips Tim , Richardson Sarah , D'Orsogna Luca , Mulroy Seonaid
Published: July 2017

The objective of this study was to determine the value of an e-mail listserv for parents of children with Rett syndrome, a rare neurologic disorder. This Web-based survey was completed by parents and carers. The setting was an e-mail listserv established by the International Rett Syndrome Association for parents of children with Rett syndrome and other interested persons. The participants included members of the e-mail listserv Rettnet. The main outcome measures were the perceived advantages and disadvantages of the listserv, overall rating of usefulness, and reasons for satisfaction or dissatisfaction. Most (81.5%) of the participants felt that Rettnet provided helpful advice concerning their child's management. They also indicated that Rettnet was useful in dealing with their child's education and as a source of carer support. They rated it highly (mean 8.1 on a scale of 1 to 10), and the most common reason given for recommending the service to other parents was the emotional support provided. E-mail listservs can play an important role in disseminating information and providing networking and support to parents of children with rare disorders. Their impact and influence warrant attention from health professionals, including neurologists. ( J Child Neurol 2004; 19:902-907).
Interleukin-1α, Interleukin-1β, and Interleukin-1Ra Polymorphisms in Febrile Seizures
Authors: Haspolat Şenay , Baysal Yunus , Duman Özgür , Coşkun Mesut , Tosun Özgür , Yein Olcay
Published: July 2017

Febrile seizures are the most common form of childhood seizures. The exact mechanism promoting convulsions during a common febrile illness remains unknown, but it is accepted that genetic influences are likely to account for at least some of the cases. Previous studies reported high interleukin-1β levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with febrile seizures. Recently, an association between a regulatory polymorphism in the genes encoding interleukin-1β and interleukin-1Ra and febrile seizures was reported. In this study, we attempted to confirm these findings. We analyzed the cytokine gene polymorphisms of interleukin-1β, interleukin-1α, and interleukin-1Ra of 73 children with febrile seizure and 152 healthy controls. The distribution of interleukin-1β —511, interleukin-1α —889, and interleukin-1Ra genotypes and alleles did not differ significantly between cases and controls. Our data suggest that the studied gene polymorphisms of interleukin-1β, interleukin-1α, and interleukin-1Ra do not have a significant role in the pathogenesis of febrile seizures. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:565—568).
Protective Effects of Valproic Acid Against Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Kabakus Nimet , Ay Ilknur , Aysun Sabiha , Söylemezoglu Figen , Özcan Ayhan , Celasun Bulent
Published: July 2017

Although controversial, protective and therapeutic effects of valproic acid in various types of cellular injury suggest a potential role for this agent in hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. We therefore investigated the effects of valproic acid in an experimental model of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. To examine the effect of valproic acid in this condition, hypoxic-ischemic brain injury was induced in 7-day-old rat pups by ligation of the right common carotid and then the pups were exposed to 1 hour of hypoxia in 8% oxygen. Low (200 mg/kg/day) and high (400 mg/kg/day) doses of valproic acid were administered in a 5-day regimen. Neuropathologic evaluation was performed using the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and basal ganglia in the coronal plane. The 5-day regimen of valproic acid administration resulted in some protective and therapeutic effects on the brain damage and neuronal apoptosis in both hemispheres in a dose-dependent manner. Administration of valproic acid also decreased the percentage of apoptotic neurons in the contralateral hemisphere ( P < .05). These results suggest that valproic acid can have therapeutic and protective effects in hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:582—587).
Broad-Spectrum Efficacy of Zonisamide at 12 Months in Children With Intractable Epilepsy
Authors: Mandelbaum David E. , Bunch Marjorie , Kugler Steven L. , Venkatasubramanian Anuradha , Wollack Jan B.
Published: July 2017

In a retrospective study of 35 children (ages 8 months to 22 years; mean age 9 years) with intractable epilepsy, seizure frequency was determined before and after 12 months of zonisamide therapy. Charts were reviewed for seizure type (focal, generalized, or mixed), cognitive function (no special education versus special education), concomitant anticonvulsant medications, and the number of previous anticonvulsant drugs. Good to excellent seizure control (50—100% reduction) was attained in seven (54%) patients with generalized seizures, two (40%) patients with focal seizures, five (35%) patients with mixed seizures, and one (33%) patient with infantile spasms. In this group of children, the efficacy of zonisamide was comparable for focal, generalized, and mixed seizures. The efficacy of zonisamide was independent of cognitive status.Adverse effects were not associated with a higher mean dose. This could be attributable to different rates of metabolism or represent idiosyncratic responses to the medication. Our finding that those children taking the combination of zonisamide and levetiracetam had a significantly worse outcome than those on levetiracetam and a different drug warrants further study, both clinically and from the standpoint of mechanisms of action of zonisamide and levetiracetam and/or their pharmacodynamic interactions. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:594—597).
Aripiprazole in Children and Adolescents: Clinical Experience
Authors: Rugino Thomas A. , Janvier Yvette M.
Published: July 2017

Despite few supportive data, aripiprazole was being administered to children and adolescents for management of mood instability, aggression, and psychosis. Using a retrospective review ( n = 11) and prospective recruitment ( n = 6), 17 children and adolescents received aripiprazole 5 to 20 mg/day. Only 4 of 16 bipolar and autistic subjects (25%) demonstrated reduced aggression without adverse events, and the symptoms of 2 of 4 psychotic subjects improved. Coadministration of sedative medications (particularly guanfacine or clonidine) and weight < 58 kg increased the risk of adverse events, such as increased lability and aggression. All three children < 8.6 years old, all four children < 34 kg, and all five children receiving α2-agonists developed adverse events prior to clinical efficacy. Age > 11 years, weight > 58 kg, and absence of sedative medications were associated with a 56% (five of nine) success rate. Until larger, prospective studies are completed, caution is advised when considering aripiprazole for smaller children and children receiving sedative medications. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:603—610).
A 10-Year-Old Girl With Coexistent Moyamoya Disease and Graves' Disease
Authors: Golomb Meredith R. , Biller Jose , Smith Jodi L. , Edwards-Brown Mary , Sanchez Juan C. , Nebesio Todd D. , Garg Bhuwan P.
Published: July 2017

There are rare reports of young women with moyamoya disease associated with Graves' disease; we are unaware of any previous reports of this association in prepubescent girls. We report a 10-year-old girl who presented with multiple bilateral strokes. Cerebral angiography demonstrated moderate to severe stenosis of her bilateral distal internal carotid arteries and proximal anterior and middle cerebral arteries, which was greater on the right. Thyroid function tests demonstrated suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone and elevated thyroid hormone levels. Serum antiphospholipid antibody screen demonstrated mild elevations of antiocardiolipin IgG. Possible mechanisms predisposing individuals to concurrent moyamoya and Graves' disease are discussed. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:620—624).
The reduction in plant maintenance costs using creative problem-solving principles
Authors: Thompson G
Published: July 2017

The paper considers the application of creative problem-solving (CPS) principles to the reduction of plant maintenance costs. A brief description of CPS principles and methods is first given. Three case studies are then described that illustrate the use of CPS on problems at plant and machine levels, by different group compositions and on problems of different types. A review of experience of the use of CPS methods by maintenance engineers trained in their use is also given. It is concluded that CPS is a valuable approach that may be used effectively to identify causes of maintenance problems and to find solutions to particular problems of diverse kinds that incur maintenance costs.
A multiobjective approach to design for reliability
Authors: Thompson G , Nilsson C
Published: July 2017

The objective of this paper is to present a multiobjective approach to design for reliability. A method is presented that integrates performance in all salient respects, from component failure to system/product performance, that have a direct bearing on whether or not the system/product will perform its required functions. The method can be used to improve the reliability of existing systems/products, to compare different systems/products or to perform a multiobjective optimization to yield the most reliable solution. This paper presents the principles of the method and a case study to illustrate how the method is applied. The case study concerns the analysis of a continuous steel casting mould and surrounding equipment and illustrates how process and equipment parameters can be integrated to investigate the reliability of the total system.
The impact of variable hazard rates on in-service reliability
Authors: Edwards I J
Published: July 2017

This paper uses various models to assess the impact of variable hazard rates. It shows that the best interests of safety, operational effectiveness and cost are met by the identification and elimination of early failure subgroups, regardless of their apparently benign mean times to failure. It supports the observation that hazard rates that increase with usage reflect a design feature, while those that decrease with usage are associated with quality shortfalls. A high-level model is then introduced that identifies priorities for detailed analysis. It then recommends a more vigorous approach to demonstrating that certification requirements are being met and upheld in the civil aviation industry. This would require a more formal analysis of the current mandatory records of maintenance actions and operations. Although this paper has been written principally around civil aviation, the analytical techniques are equally valid to other applications.
Assessment of the colour removal capability of low-pressure dynamically formed membranes
Authors: Correia V , Judd S J
Published: July 2017

Experimental work undertaken to explore the aptness of low-pressure dynamically formed membranes (DFMs) for colour removal from dyewastes is reported. Hydrous zirconium oxide-polyacrylic acid (Zr-PAA) membranes have been dynamically formed on a composite, ceramic-metal mesh microfiltration (MF) membrane at pressures and cross-flow velocities below 1.5 MPa and 3 m/s respectively. Resulting membranes were assessed on feed steams containing inorganic salts and commercial direct, acid and basic dyes. Membrane performance, expressed as permeate flux and solute rejection, was quantified under various feedwater conditions of salt and dye concentration, dye type and feed temperature.
Indo—Us Relations: Search for Mature and Constructive Ties
Authors: Shrivastava B.K.
Published: July 2017

Rajiv Gandhi's election as the Prime Minister has aroused enthusiasm and hope for change. However, the chances of major changes in either the structure or the orientation of foreign policy are remote. The present policies have evolved in response to challenges posed by developments in India's external policy environment. For this reason the Janata Party, not bound by any loyalty to the past, was unable to change the orientation of the nation's foreign policy. There was infact no alternative which the thinking public in this country would have accepted as reasonable. Nevertheless within the given structure and orientation of foreign policy significant changes are feasible.

Today the world is moving from one stage to another of higher technology. The Western countries, particularly the United States, holds the key to this transformation. India has already obtained from the Soviet Union whatever assistance it could for its economic development. Growth to a higher stage requires cooperation of the western world. On the other hand, political and strategic compulsions force us to maintain close relations with the Soviet Union. The situation in which we are placed thus reinforces the logic of non-alignment. China going through its four-fold modernization adds urgency to our situation. Despite the preeminence of the Super Powers the world is still multi-polar—and every nation will have to learn to live with it. Therefore, despite the fact that the United States' actions threaten our security and it carries the major responsibility for the present state of relations, the new Indian Government needs to carry on the initiative for improving relations.
Continuity and Change: India's Relations with Japan
Authors: Vishwanathan Savitri
Published: July 2017

A new dimension in India's relations with Japan appear to have opened up with the visit of Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone to India in May 1984. In Japan, with Premier Nakasone's re-election for the second term in October 1984, the trend of strengthening relations with India are likely to continue. In fact, the big delegation headed by Nakasone himself, and which also included Foreign Minister Shintaro Abe, which came to pay their last respects to Mrs. Indira Gandhi gives sufficient evidence of Japan's strong desire to cultivate and extend the close relations, started during Mrs. Gandhi's tenure, with the new Rajiv Government as well. Further, Japan also fulfilled the earlier commitment made by Nakasone about sending a high level economic team to consider the areas of economic cooperation with India. The team visited India in the first week of December 1984 and identified broad areas for industrial collaboration and trade expansion. These include energy, telecommunications, electronics and auto ancillaries, which accord well with the high priority given in India's Seventh Five Year Plan to the development of power, transport and communication. It is attempted to discuss in this paper whether the new Government would find it advantageous to continue this trend of closer relations with Japan in the broader context of the foreign policy, which it proposes to pursue.
India and Pakistan: Differing Security Perceptions
Authors: Rao R. Rama
Published: July 2017

The two fragments into which Britain, before its withdrawal from the subcontinent, had split the Indian Empire, carried with them a legacy of mutual distrust. This could not but influence the course of subsequent events in the sub-continent. So have the attitudes of the erstwhile colonial and other powers towards the new states in the light of their respective regional interests. In the comparatively short period of thirty-seven years, short in the life of nations, the two states have been involved in hostilities on three occasions, not counting Pakistan's attack on India in the Kutch sector in April 1965.

Time no doubt is a great healer but it takes same time for deep wounds to heal. The healing process would be aided and succeed only if the governments of both countries are convinced that not mutual hostility but at least co-existence, if not mutual amity, is good for both countries and strive to create conditions for peaceful co-existence. If only one side is anxious to maintain peace and the other wishes to maintain tension, the latter will prevail. Public opinion in the two countries, if mobilised far promoting coexistence rather than confrontation, would help. In democratic countries, at least in theory, public opinion is a force to reckon with and no government can for long afford to disregard public opinion. The media, again in theory, reflects public opinion and serves to consolidate and strengthen it, in the process compelling the government of the day to consider carefully the issues raised. In practice, however, governments, even in “liberal” democracies can influence prominent segments of the media to project issues in the manner desired by the former, i.e., the media can and regrettably are being used to misinform the public at home and abroad- Even so, in democracies, ultimately, governmental efforts not withstanding, at least some sections of the media discover facts and fearlessly expose governments' earlier efforts to misinform the public. This is the inherent strength of democracies.

In dictatorships this is diffcult. But there are dictatorships and dictatorships! In Pakistan, for example, by all accounts the government of General Zia ul Haq, in its own way, has managed to secure tolerance if not the enthusiastic support of a majority of urban middle and lower middle classes for the martial law regime. A. section—even a large section—of politically conscious urban and rural groups are totally unreconciled to rule by generals for a number of reasons. Another section of the same strata of Pakistani society again for its own reasons, supports the regime. Thus General Zia is secure, provided he continues, with the dexterity he has so amply demonstrated during eight eventful years, to steer his country on a “least risk” course, and there is a good chance of preserving peace, precarious though it may be, in the sub-continent.