bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of Paeoniae Radix and Cnidii Rhizoma Prolonged Survival of Fully Mismatched Cardiac Allografts and Generated Regulatory Cells in Mice
Authors: Jin Xiangyuan , Yu Lei , Uchiyama Masateru , Yin Enzhi , Harada Tadanori , Otsuka Ken , Matsuyama Shigefumi , Imazuru Tomohiro , Shimokawa Tomoki , Niimi Masanori
Published: March 2014

In previous studies, we have demonstrated that Tokishakuyakusan (TJ‐23) can prolong the survival of allogeneic cardiac grafts and induce regulatory T cells. In this study we investigated the effects of Paeoniae radix and Cnidii rhizoma, two components of TJ‐23, on alloimmune responses in a murine cardiac transplantation model and whether the two agents have synergistic effect. CBA mice underwent transplantation of a C57BL/6 heart and received oral administration of 2 g/kg/day of Paeoniae radix, Cnidii rhizoma, or the mixture of two agents from the day of transplantation until 7 days afterward. Naïve CBA mice rejected C57BL/6 cardiac graft acutely (median survival time (MST): 7 days). Paeoniae radix and Cnidii rhizoma prolonged C57BL/6 allograft survival (MSTs: 13.5 and 15.5 days, resp.). However, the mixture of two agents prolonged C57BL/6 allograft survival indefinitely (MST > 100 days). Secondary CBA recipients given whole splenocytes from primary combination‐treated CBA recipients with B6 cardiac allografts 30 days after grafting had prolonged survival of B6 hearts (MST: 33 days). Flow cytometry studies showed that the CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory cell population was increased in combination‐treated recipients. Combination of Paeoniae radix and Cnidii rhizoma induced hyporesponsiveness to fully allogeneic cardiac allografts and may generate CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory cells in our model.
Fraction Reduction in Membrane Systems
Authors: Guo Ping , Zhang Hong , Chen Haizhu , Liu Ran
Published: March 2014

Fraction reduction is a basic computation for rational numbers. P system is a new computing model, while the current methods for fraction reductions are not available in these systems. In this paper, we propose a method of fraction reduction and discuss how to carry it out in cell-like P systems with the membrane structure and the rules with priority designed. During the application of fraction reduction rules, synchronization is guaranteed by arranging some special objects in these rules. Our work contributes to performing the rational computation in P systems since the rational operands can be given in the form of fraction.
Determination of Lactones in Wines by Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography Coupled with Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Pérez-Olivero S. J. , Pérez-Pont M. L. , Conde J. E. , Pérez-Trujillo J. P.
Published: March 2014

Application of headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with high-resolution gas chromatographic (HRGC) analysis was studied for determining lactones in wines. Six different SPME fibers were tested, and the influence of different factors such as temperature and time of desorption, ionic strength, time of extraction, content of sugar, ethanol, tannins and anthocyanins, and pH and influence of SO2were studied. The proposed HS-SPME-GC method is an appropriate technique for the quantitative analysis ofγ-butyrolactone,γ-hexalactone,trans-whiskey lactone,γ-octalactone,cis-whiskey lactone,γ-nonalactone,γ-decalactone,δ-decalactone, andγ-undecalactone in wines. Method reproducibility and repeatability ranged between 0.6 and 5.2% for all compounds. Detection limit forγ-butyrolactone was 0.17 mg/L and a fewμg/L for the rest of the compounds. The optimized method has been applied to several wine samples.
The Function of CD3+CD56+NKT-Like Cells in HIV-Infected Individuals
Authors: Jiang Yongjun , Cui Xiaojian , Cui Chen , Zhang Jian , Zhou Fangyuan , Zhang Zining , Fu Yajing , Xu Junjie , Chu Zhenxing , Liu Jing , Han Xiaoxu , Liao Christina , Wang Yanan , Cao Yaming , Shang Hong
Published: March 2014

CD3+CD56+NKT-like cells are one of the critical effectors in the immune response to viral infection and tumors, but the functional features of NKT-like cells in HIV infection have been rarely reported. In this study, we observed and described the state of NKT-like cell functions in primary HIV-infected individuals (PHIs), chronic HIV-infected individuals (CHIs), long-term nonprogressors (LTNPs), and HIV-negative controls (NCs). The results showed that the percentage of IFN-γ+CD3+CD56+NKT-like cells was notably higher in LTNPs compared with CHIs, and the proportion of CD3+CD56+NKT-like cells with dual function (IFN-γ+CD107a+NKT-like cells) in LTNPs was also much higher than in CHIs. Additionally, the percentages of IFN-γ+CD107a+NKT-like cells negatively correlated with viral load. Taken together, our data demonstrated that good functions of CD3+CD56+NKT-like cells in LTNPs likely occurred as a protective mechanism that slows down HIV disease progression.
A Review of Advance Care Planning Programs in Long-Term Care Homes: Are They Dementia Friendly?
Authors: Wickson-Griffiths Abigail , Kaasalainen Sharon , Ploeg Jenny , McAiney Carrie
Published: March 2014

Background. Persons living with dementia in the long-term care home (LTCH) setting have a number of unique needs, including those related to planning for their futures. It is therefore important to understand the advance care planning (ACP) programs that have been developed and their impact in order for LTCH settings to select a program that best suits residents’ needs.Methods. Four electronic databases were searched from 1990 to 2013, for studies that evaluated the impact of advance care planning programs implemented in the LTCH setting. Studies were critically reviewed according to rigour, impact, and the consideration of the values of residents with dementia and their family members according to the Dementia Policy Lens Toolkit.Results and Conclusion. Six ACP programs were included in the review, five of which could be considered more “dementia friendly.” The programs indicated a variety of positive impacts in the planning and provision of end-of-life care for residents and their family members, most notably, increased ACP discussion and documentation. In moving forward, it will be important to evaluate the incorporation of residents with dementia’s values when designing or implementing ACP interventions in the LTCH settings.
Inhibitory Effect of Veterinary Antibiotics on Denitrification in Groundwater: A Microcosm Approach
Authors: Ahmad Mahtab , Vithanage Meththika , Kim Kangjoo , Cho Ju-Sik , Lee Young Han , Joo Young Kyoo , Lee Sang Soo , Ok Yong Sik
Published: March 2014

Veterinary antibiotics in groundwater may affect natural microbial denitrification process. A microcosm study was conducted to evaluate the influence of sulfamethazine and chlortetracycline at different concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, and 1.0 mg/L) on nitrate reduction in groundwater under denitrifying condition. Decrease in nitrate removal and nitrite production was observed with the antibiotics. Maximum inhibition of nitrate removal was observed after seven days of incubation with 0.01 mg/L sulfamethazine (17.0%) and 1.0 mg/L chlortetracycline (15.4%). The nitrite production was inhibited with 1.0 mg/L sulfamethazine to 82.0% and chlortetracycline to 31.1%. The initial/final nitrate concentrations indicated that 0.01 mg/L sulfamethazine and 1.0 mg/L chlortetracycline were most effective in inhibiting activity of denitrifying bacteria in groundwater. After 12 days of incubation, the sulfamethazine biodegradation was observed whereas chlortetracycline was persistent. Sulfamethazine and chlortetracycline in groundwater could inhibit the growth and capability of naturally occurring denitrifying bacteria, thereby threatening nitrate pollution in groundwater.
On Application-Customized Common Platform for Wireless Vehicular Sensor Networks
Authors: Wang Hongchao , Han Zhen , Yang Dong
Published: March 2014

Developing, deploying, or reprogramming an application in a short time and at a low cost is necessary in wireless vehicular sensor and vehicular ad hoc networks. However, the existing technologies, which usually take a long time or require a high cost, cannot support a system and common solution. In this paper, we propose an application-customized common platform for wireless vehicular sensor networks. The common platform can provide us with a friendly web-based user interface, so as to make deploying or reprogramming a running field application in VeSANs become very convenient, simple, and efficient. According to the requirements of the common platform and the presented architecture model, we have implemented the common platform in both hardware and software. The in-field experiment and the test results show that the platform is available for the developing and deploying of WSNs for different applications.
Exponential Stability of Neutral Stochastic Functional Differential Equations with Two‐Time‐Scale Markovian Switching
Authors: Hu Junhao , Xu Zhiying
Published: March 2014

We develop exponential stability of neutral stochastic functional differential equations with two‐time‐scale Markovian switching modeled by a continuous‐time Markov chain which has a large state space. To overcome the computational effort and the complexity, we split the large‐scale system into several classes and lump the states in each class into one class by the different states of changes of the subsystems; then, we give a limit system to effectively “replace” the large‐scale system. Under suitable conditions, using the stability of the limit system as a bridge, the desired asymptotic properties of the large‐scale system with Brownian motion and Poisson jump are obtained by utilizing perturbed Lyapunov function methods and Razumikhin‐type criteria. Two examples are provided to demonstrate our results.
Integrated Chassis Control of Active Front Steering and Yaw Stability Control Based on Improved Inverse Nyquist Array Method
Authors: Zhu Bing , Chen Yizhou , Zhao Jian
Published: March 2014

An integrated chassis control (ICC) system with active front steering (AFS) and yaw stability control (YSC) is introduced in this paper. The proposed ICC algorithm uses the improved Inverse Nyquist Array (INA) method based on a 2-degree-of-freedom (DOF) planar vehicle reference model to decouple the plant dynamics under different frequency bands, and the change of velocity and cornering stiffness were considered to calculate the analytical solution in the precompensator design so that the INA based algorithm runs well and fast on the nonlinear vehicle system. The stability of the system is guaranteed by dynamic compensator together with a proposed PI feedback controller. After the response analysis of the system on frequency domain and time domain, simulations under step steering maneuver were carried out using a 2-DOF vehicle model and a 14-DOF vehicle model by Matlab/Simulink. The results show that the system is decoupled and the vehicle handling and stability performance are significantly improved by the proposed method.
Primary Hepatic Lymphoma Is Difficult to Discriminate from a Liver Abscess
Authors: Takeuchi Nobuhiro , Naba Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2014

An 82-year-old woman presented with a high-grade fever of 40°C and was admitted to our institution for intensive examination and treatment. Noncontrast abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed low-density masses at segments 5 and 8, suggestive of a liver abscess. On further examination, a contrast-enhanced abdominal CT showed a30×30 mm mass with an enhanced margin at segment 8 in the arterial phase; the contrast agents were washed out in the venous phase. In addition, a63×52 mm mass with a density lower than that of liver parenchyma was observed at segment 8 in the portal phase. On the basis of these findings, either a liver abscess or hepatocellular carcinoma was suspected. To confirm the diagnosis, a fine needle biopsy was scheduled. Histopathological analysis of the biopsied specimens confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Chemotherapy was not indicated owing to the patient’s age and poor performance status; thus, best supportive care was planned. On day 22 after admission, the patient died of pneumonia. We experienced a case of PHL that was difficult to discriminate from a liver abscess. Imaging alone is insufficient to diagnose PHL; therefore, fine needle biopsy is recommended for a definitive diagnosis.
A New Method for Research on the Center-Focus Problem of Differential Systems
Authors: Zhou Zhengxin
Published: March 2014

We will introduce Mironenko’s method to discuss the Poincaré center-focus problem, and compare the methods of Lyapunov and Mironenko. We apply the Mironenko method to discuss the qualitative behavior of solutions of some planar polynomial differential systems and derive the sufficient conditions for a critical point to be a center.
A Case of Carcinoid Likely Causing Jejunal Intussusception
Authors: Matulich Jennifer , Thurston Kelly , Galvan Dan , Misra Subhasis
Published: March 2014

A 34-year-old female was admitted to Emergency Department with an abrupt onset of diffuse abdominal pain. A CT scan done prior to her transfer revealed significant dilated loops of bowel as well as multiple target signs with likely torsed bowel. The patient consented to an exploratory laparotomy. During surgery, the proximal jejunum was found to be intussuscepted, a rare finding in an adult. There was evidence of mesenteric foreshortening throughout the small bowel and multiple whitish lesions within the mesentery, both consistent with the desmoplastic response that is characteristic of carcinoid. The interest for this case report comes from the patient’s surgical findings of jejunal intussusception as well as her extensive history, which includes a bowel resection with an ileocolic anastomosis for presumed ischemia and a carcinoid tumor in the stomach which had been removed endoscopically.
Estimation of Total Yearly CO2Emissions by Wildfires in Mexico during the Period 1999–2010
Authors: Bautista Vicente Flor , Carbajal Noel , Pineda Martínez Luis Felipe
Published: March 2014

The phenomenon of wildfires became a global environmental problem which demands estimations of their CO2emissions. Wildfires have deteriorated the air quality increasingly. Using available information on documented wildfires and a data set of satellite detected hot spots, total yearly emissions of CO2in Mexico were estimated for the period 1999–2010. A map of the main vegetation groups was used to calculate total areas for every vegetation type. The yearly number of hot spots per vegetation type was calculated. Estimates of emitted CO2in a wildfire were then accomplished by considering parameters such as: forest fuel load, vegetation type, burning efficiency, and mean burned area. The number of wildfires and total affected areas showed an annual variability. The yearly mean of affected area by a single wildfire varied between 0.2 and 0.3 km2. The total affected area during the period 1999 to 2010 was 86800 km2which corresponds to 4.3% of the Mexican territory. Total CO2emissions were approximately 112 Tg. The most affected vegetation types were forest and rainforest.
Approximation by Genuineq-Bernstein-Durrmeyer Polynomials in Compact Disks in the Caseq>1
Authors: Mahmudov Nazim I.
Published: March 2014

This paper deals with approximating properties of the newly definedq-generalization of the genuine Bernstein-Durrmeyer polynomials in the caseq>1, which are no longer positive linear operators onC0,1. Quantitative estimates of the convergence, the Voronovskaja-type theorem, and saturation of convergence for complex genuineq-Bernstein-Durrmeyer polynomials attached to analytic functions in compact disks are given. In particular, it is proved that, for functions analytic inz∈ℂ:zq, the rate of approximation by the genuineq-Bernstein-Durrmeyer polynomialsq>1is of orderq−nversus1/nfor the classical genuine Bernstein-Durrmeyer polynomials. We give explicit formulas of Voronovskaja type for the genuineq-Bernstein-Durrmeyer forq>1. This paper represents an answer to the open problem initiated by Gal in (2013, page 115).
A 12‐Words‐for‐Life‐Nurturing Exercise Program as an Alternative Therapy for Cervical Spondylosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hu Zhijun , Tang Zhanying , Wang Shiwei , Ye Xiulan , Wang Yongjun , Shi Qi , Yang Qiangling , Cheng Shaodan , Huang Min , Dong Yi , Gu Hongjun
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we carried out a randomized controlled clinical trial to explore the effect of 12‐words‐for‐life‐nurturing exercise on patients presenting with cervical spondylosis. After exercise intervention, the mean VAS and NDI scores of the patients decreased significantly and the scores of BP, VT, and MH in SF‐36 Health Questionnaire were significantly higher. Exercise therapy showed significant effect on relieving pain and improving vitality and mental health. The 12‐words‐for‐life‐nurturing exercise may be a potential effective therapy for patients with cervical spondylosis.
Multidimensional Optimization of Signal Space Distance Parameters in WLAN Positioning
Authors: Brković Milenko , Simić Mirjana
Published: March 2014

Accurate indoor localization of mobile users is one of the challenging problems of the last decade. Besides delivering high speed Internet, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) can be used as an effective indoor positioning system, being competitive both in terms of accuracy and cost. Among the localization algorithms, nearest neighbor fingerprinting algorithms based on Received Signal Strength (RSS) parameter have been extensively studied as an inexpensive solution for delivering indoor Location Based Services (LBS). In this paper, we propose the optimization of the signal space distance parameters in order to improve precision of WLAN indoor positioning, based on nearest neighbor fingerprinting algorithms. Experiments in a real WLAN environment indicate that proposed optimization leads to substantial improvements of the localization accuracy. Our approach is conceptually simple, is easy to implement, and does not require any additional hardware.
Association between the rs342293 polymorphism and adverse cardiac events in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Arbesu Iciar , Jilma Bernd , Maurer Gerald , Lang Irene M. , Mannhalter Christine , Siller-Matula Jolanta M.
Published: March 2014

The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs342293 has been shown to influence platelet number and mean platelet volume (MPV). We investigated the association between the rs342293 polymorphism and cardiovascular outcome in a prospective cohort study. The rs342293 polymorphism was analysed in 404 patients with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. The rates of cardiac adverse events were recorded during two years of follow-up. The polymorphism was associated with MPV (median 10.1 fL, interquartile range [IQR]: 9.6 to 10.6 in patients with the CC-allele vs 10.4 fL, IQR: 9.9 to 11.1 in G>C SNP carriers; p<0.001), but not with platelet count. Survival analysis indicated that carriers of the rs342293 G variant had a substantially higher risk to develop cardiac adverse events compared with wild type carriers during two years of follow-up (33% vs 22%; adjusted hazard ratio = 1.63, 95% confidence interval = 1.06–2.52, p=0.027). The rs342293 SNP could explain 2.9% of the variability in MPV (p=0.01). In conclusion, patients undergoing coronary stenting who carry the G-variant of the rs342293 SNP which is associated with larger MPV are at higher risk for adverse cardiovascular outcome.
Prospective Study of the Association Between Dispositional Optimism and Incident Heart Failure
Authors: Kim Eric S. , Smith Jacqui , Kubzansky Laura D.
Published: March 2014

Background—

Although higher optimism has been linked with an array of positive health behaviors, biological processes, and cardiovascular outcomes, the relationship between optimism and heart failure has not been examined. In the United States, 80% of heart failures occur in adults aged 65+ years. Therefore, we examined whether higher optimism was linked with a reduced incidence of heart failure among older adults.

Methods and Results—

Prospective data were from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative study of older US adults. Our sample included 6808 participants who were followed for 4 years. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess whether optimism was independently associated with incident heart failure. We adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, biological, and psychological covariates. Higher optimism was associated with a lower risk of incident heart failure during the follow-up period. In a model that adjusted for sociodemographic factors, each SD increase in optimism had an odds ratio of 0.74 (95% confidence interval, 0.63–0.85) for heart failure. Effects of optimism persisted even after adjusting for a wide range of covariates. There was also evidence of a dose–response relationship. As optimism increased, risk of developing heart failure decreased monotonically, with a 48% reduced odds among people with the highest versus lowest optimism.

Conclusions—

This is the first study to suggest that optimism is associated with a lower risk of heart failure. If future studies confirm these findings, they may be used to inform new strategies for preventing or delaying the onset of heart failure.
History and the Claims of Revelation: Joseph Smith and the Materialization of the Golden Plates
Authors: Taves Ann
Published: March 2014

Abstract

The Mormon claim that Joseph Smith discovered ancient golden plates buried in a hillside in upstate New York is too often viewed in simple either/or terms, such that the plates either existed, making Smith the prophet he claimed to be, or did not, making him deceptive or delusional. If we assume that there were no ancient golden plates and at the same that Smith was not a fraud, then the task of historical explanation is more complex. Building on a review of the evidence for the materiality of the plates, the paper uses a series of comparisons — between the golden plates and sacred objects in other religious traditions, between Smith’s claims and claims that psychiatrists define as delusional, and between Smith’s role as a seer and the role of the artist and the physician as skilled perceivers — to generate a greater range of explanatory options. In light of these comparisons, we can view the materialization of the golden plates in naturalistic terms as resulting from an interaction between an individual with unusual abilities, intimate others who recognized and called forth those abilities, and objects that facilitated the creation of both the revelator and the revelation.
Suillus triacicularis sp. nov., a new species associated with Pinus roxburghii from northwestern Himalayas, India
Authors: Reddy Sudhakara M , Verma Balwant
Published: March 2014

A new Suillus species, Suillus triacicularis sp. nov., is reported from northwestern Himalayan region of India. This is the first report of any Suillus species found in ectomycorrhizal association with Pinus roxburghii in this region. Morphologically, the species is very close to Suillus granulatus but can be distinguished mainly by the yellow to reddish or orange-yellow pileus color at maturity and the absence of watery green context next to the tubes. Phylogenetic analysis of internal transcribed spacer region revealed that this species is distinct from other closely related species of Suillus. Field photographs of fresh sporocarps, microscopic line drawings, and a phylogenetic tree are provided along with the taxonomic details.
Rethinking Africa’s sociological project
Authors: Sitas Ari
Published: March 2014

This article explores what challenges African sociologists face in the contemporary period. It argues that one needs to go beyond references to resource constraint or the emphasis on the market or the state in order to fathom the deeper canonical and epistemological problems that keep work outside and distant from the sociological canon. Part of the challenge is that most coherent work on the continent occurred outside the confines of sociology as such. After exploring the snares involved, the article turns to the kind of work that animated sociological thought from indigenous and endogenous forms of knowledge, development and underdevelopment debates, violence and power and a growing emphasis on labour studies. It concludes in trying to consolidate the areas of consensus among African sociologists.
Quantitative analysis of cell distribution in injection molded microcellular foam
Authors: Rizvi SJA , Alaei MH , Yadav A , Bhatnagar N
Published: March 2014

The microstructure of cellular materials, in particular microcellular polymers, is commonly characterized by the mean cell size and cell population density. Although the physical properties of foamed polymers are highly dependent on cell distribution, very insignificant work has been carried out to quantify the distribution of cells. This experimental study correlates the influential processing parameters of microcellular injection molding with the cell distribution, mean cell size and population density. For the first time, “Cell Distribution Index (CDI)”, a quantitative parameter for characterization of foams has been defined in this paper. Foamed samples of polystyrene were prepared via microcellular injection molding process. The design of experiment includes five influential processing parameters (factors) at five different levels. Molded samples were fractured cryogenically and micrographs were obtained using a table top scanning electron microscope. With the help of image processing package, mean cell size, cell population density, frequency and newly defined term CDI were calculated for each micrograph. Finally, the effect of processing parameters on cell distribution was analyzed by plotting the CDI against the processing parameters.
Effect of stearic acid/organic montmorillonite on EVA/SA/OMMT nanocomposite foams by melting blending
Authors: Duan Zhouyang , Ma Jianzhong , Xue Chaohua , Deng Fuquan
Published: March 2014

The effects of stearic acid (SA)/organic montmorillonite (OMMT) on the morphology and mechanical properties of nanocomposite foams based on ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer were studied. The dispersion of montmorillonite layers was characterized by both X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The cellular microstructure of the foamed samples was observed by scanning electron microscope. The effects of SA/OMMT on the mechanical properties of the EVA-based foams were also investigated. It was found that the combined effects of the existence of SA/OMMT led to bimodal foam structure in EVA/SA/OMMT nanocomposite foams. Compared with pure EVA foams, the density of EVA/SA/OMMT foams became lower with the addition of SA/OMMT, while the peel strength and elongation-at-break of the samples were increased.
Polystyrene foams with inter-connected carbon particulate network
Authors: Yen Ying-Chieh , Lee Tom , Chiu Debbie , Chang Feng-Chih , Lee Ly James
Published: March 2014

New polystyrene (PS)/carbon nanofiber (CNF) and PS/graphite foams with an inter-connected honeycomb-like carbon particulate network of CNF or graphite were prepared by first coating the surface of polymer pellets with either CNF or graphite and then conducting batch foaming using carbon dioxide (CO2) as a blowing agent. It was found that the inter-connected honeycomb-like carbon particulate network could significantly reduce the compression yielding of conventional PS foams. With 1 wt% of CNFs or graphite, the PS foams with inter-connected honeycomb-like carbon particulate network were 5–9 times more electrically conductive than foams made of compounded PS nanocomposite with the same carbon particle loading. In addition, the PS foams with inter-connected honeycomb-like carbon particulate network were more thermally conductive and revealed significantly improved thermal stability comparing to foams made of compounded polymer nanocomposites.
Response of polyurea-coated flat composite plates to underwater explosive loading
Authors: LeBlanc James , Shukla Arun
Published: March 2014

An experimental and numerical study has been conducted to evaluate the underwater blast response of E-Glass/epoxy composite plates with polyurea coatings. The goal of the study is to determine the effects of these elastomeric coatings on the dynamic response of the plates, specifically the influence of coating thickness, location, and plate natural frequency. The composite material is a 0°/90° biaxial layup and the coatings are applied to either the loaded or non-loaded faces. A conical shock tube facility which produces shock loading conditions representative of the underwater detonation of an explosive charge is used to impart the shock loading to the plates during the experiments. The transient response of the plates is recorded using a three-dimensional (3D) digital image correlation system, consisting of high-speed photography and specialized post processing software. Computational models of the experiments are developed using the LS-DYNA finite element code. The simulations are shown to have a high level of correlation to the experimental data in terms of center point displacements and full field deformation profiles. Additional parametric studies using the correlated model show that the transient response of the composite plates is improved with increasing coating thickness, and that polyurea coatings located on the back face of the panels provide better performance than when located on the loaded surface.
Preparation and properties of isoprene-grafted styrene–butadiene rubber in latex
Authors: Zhao Zhichao , Gong Daolin , Zhao Xutao , Gong Guangbi
Published: March 2014

Graft polymerization of isoprene onto styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) was carried out in latex using p-menthane hydroperoxide and ferrous sulfate as an initiator. The effect of isoprene on vulcanization characteristics, mechanical, and thermal properties of isoprene-grafted SBR were investigated. The grafting of isoprene onto SBR was confirmed by attenuated total teflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The fatigue heat of the isoprene-grafted SBR mainly come from deformation and restructuring, while the smaller deformation of isoprene-grafted SBR will cause the heat lower. The results revealed that the glass transition temperature decreases with the grafting of isoprene and strengthen the Payne effect in grafted SBR.
Effect of multiwalled carbon nanotube and temperature on dielectric and impedance spectroscopy of chlorobutyl elastomer nanocomposites
Authors: Tiwari Shashi Kant , Choudhary Ram Naresh Prasad , Mahapatra Shyama Prasad
Published: March 2014

Dielectric relaxation characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-reinforced chlorobutyl (CIIR) nanocomposites have been studied as a function of frequency (100–106 Hz) at different filler loadings (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 phr) over a wide range of temperatures (30–120°C). The effect of MWCNT loadings and temperature on the dielectric permittivity ( ∊′), dielectric loss tangent (tan δ), complex impedance ( Z*) and electrical conductivity ( σ) was studied. The variation of ∊′ with MWCNT loading has been explained based on the interfacial polarization of the fillers within a heterogeneous system. A significant effect of MWCNT loading on the real ( Z′) and imaginary ( Z′′) part of Z* was observed due to the relaxation dynamics of polymer chains at the CIIR-MWCNT interface. The non-linearity of CIIR nanocomposites has been studied from Nyquist plots. The dielectric modulus formalism has been utilized to further investigate the conductivity and relaxation phenomenon. The permittivity and conductivity of the nanocomposites have been analyzed based on scaling theory at increasing temperatures. The frequency dependency and percolation phenomenon in the composites have been discussed in terms of σ. The percolation threshold ( Φcrit) occurred at around 6 phr of MWCNT loading irrespective of temperature. The dispersion of MWCNT in the CIIR matrix and agglomeration of the filler at higher loading have been studied using scanning electron microscopic photomicrographs.
Disambiguation of novel labels and referential facts: A developmental perspective
Authors: Kalashnikova Marina , Mattock Karen , Monaghan Padraic
Published: March 2014

Disambiguation refers to children’s tendency to assign novel labels to unfamiliar rather than familiar referents. It is employed as a word-learning strategy, but it remains unknown whether it is a domain-specific phenomenon or a manifestation of more general pragmatic competence. To assess the domain-specificity and development of disambiguation, this study tested children from two age groups (ages 3;7–4;6 and 4;7–5;7) and adults on a disambiguation of novel labels and referential facts paradigm. A linear contrast analysis showed that the difference between disambiguation from labels and disambiguation from facts increased significantly as the participants’ age increased. The results indicate that at the early stages of word learning, children reason by exclusion to disambiguate the meaning of a variety of referential actions, but with increasing understanding about the communicative process, this inferential reasoning develops into a strategy limited to lexical acquisition.
Clinical and hemodynamic study of tilting disc heart valve: Single-center study
Authors: Malhotra Amber , Pawar Sanjay R , Srivastava Anubhav , Yadav Balbir Singh , Kaushal Ramprasad , Sharma Praveen , Songra Moolchand
Published: March 2014

Background

The TTK Chitra heart valve has been developed and widely used in India. This study aimed to evaluate its hemodynamics, complications, and event-free survival in comparison with other commonly used prosthetic valves. The role of color Doppler echocardiography in the follow-up of patients with prosthetic valves was also studied.

Patients and methods

Two hundred patients underwent 249 valve replacements (122 mitral, 29 aortic, 49 both). Total follow-up was 451 patient-years.

Results

There were 18 late deaths (3.98% ± 0.92% per patient-year). One mitral valve replacement patient (0.36% ± 0.36% per patient-year) developed valve thrombosis. Two aortic valve replacement patients (2.74% ± 1.91% per patient-year), 2 double-valve replacement patients (1.95% ± 1.36% per patient-year) and 3 mitral valve replacement patients (1.08% ± 0.62% per patient-year) developed embolic complications. Freedom from all valve related mortality and morbidity at 4 years was 86% ± 4% for mitral valve replacement, 56% ± 10% for double-valve replacement, and 89% ± 6% for aortic valve replacement. The average peak gradient, mean gradient, and average peak velocity for the aortic and mitral positions were found to be comparable to those of other commonly used valves.

Conclusion

The performance of this valve in terms of hemodynamic complications, mortality, and morbidity is comparable to other valves in common use. Hemodynamic gradients are more reproducible than effective orifice area, hence more beneficial for follow-up.
Performance differences between verbally talented preschoolers and their regular counterparts in storytelling
Authors: Jen Enyi , Tseng Christine Chifen , Kuo Ching-Chih
Published: March 2014

The primary purpose of this study was to compare language and narrative skills of both talented and regular young children in Taiwan. The participants were asked to tell a story based on images in children’s picture books. Twelve children, who participated in a screening session designed to identify young talented children for the Enrichment Program for Cultivating Problem Solving Abilities and Multiple Intelligences for Talented Preschoolers (PSMIGP program), were divided into a verbally talented group (VT) and a regular group (RE). The stories told by the participants were tape-recorded, transcribed, and coded using the Child Language Data Exchange System (CHILDES). The results indicated that the verbally talented children demonstrated their linguistic talents at as young as four years of age. In telling a story, they used more clauses and more words that were different to complete the task. In addition, they used more modifiers (i.e. adjectives and adverbs) and employed more conjunctions that were more complex. However, there were no differences between the two groups in mean length of utterance (MLU) and type-token ratios (TTRs). This paper presents a discussion on the implications of this study and offers suggestions for future research.
How David P Weikart’s HighScope Summer Camp for (Gifted) Teenagers became a sustainable model for my later work in special education and inclusive education
Authors: Broecher Joachim
Published: March 2014

The HighScope Summer Camp for Teenagers founded by David P Weikart in 1963, and operated until 2002, was an international, inclusive gifted education program that aided many young people, including those from disadvantaged social strata, in their personal development and shaped them in a special way. The six-week program stood for a high degree of structure and high expectations from the youth with regard to active thinking, problem solving and responsible action in the sciences, arts, and in social intercourse. Diversity and social justice were organically integrated, as was closeness to nature and a hands-on approach. The author worked on David P Weikart’s team during the summer of 1984 and then helped to found a similar program in Germany. The author’s personal HighScope experience remained intact over the decades and an effective background source of inspiration and orientation for his work in special and inclusive education.
Equity in cross-cultural gifted screening from a Philippine perspective
Authors: Vista Alvin
Published: March 2014

This paper discusses issues on cross-cultural gifted screening from a Philippine perspective. Research on gifted education in the Philippines, and Southeast Asia in general, is still nascent. The main focus of this review of literature is on equity of the gifted education screening process across wide socioeconomic, cultural, and linguistic differences within the student population. On account of the relative lack of specific literature on Philippine gifted education, this review links the findings in gifted education research from Western-based countries and relates the findings to the Philippine context. For example, although the Philippines do not have as much of an issue of racial inequity in schools as the United States, the same inequity because of socioeconomic factors can be tackled similarly. The implication of alternative assessments, and their utility in cross-cultural gifted education, are also examined.
Building the Garden and Making Arena Sports Big Time
Authors: Seifried Chad S. , de Wilde Ari
Published: March 2014

Foreshadowing the beginning of the Great Depression, George “Tex” Rickard succumbed to appendicitis in 1929. A leader and representative of sport marketing during the 1920s, Rickard altered the urban landscape in American cities by definitively showing that promoters could use sports in arenas (i.e., indoor) to help those venues be economically viable through the production of awe-inspiring spectacles. In this article, the authors critically examine sport marketing as a tool to help reframe the career of Tex Rickard and ultimately the development of Madison Square Garden III in the context of macromarketing. This historical and illustrative case study will also demonstrate that sport marketing is somewhat different than traditional marketing through an emphasis on media and community relations. Finally, we will show how Rickard made use of the traditional “marketing mix” (i.e., place, price, promotion, and product) to capitalize on the urban setting and other strategies employed to promote products and services.
Dysmetropsia and Cotard's syndrome due to migrainous infarction – or not?
Authors: Parks Natalie E , Rigby Heather B , Gubitz Gordon J , Shankar Jai J , Purdy R Allan
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Migrainous infarction accounts for 12.8% of ischemic strokes of unusual etiology.

Case report

A 59-year-old woman with longstanding migraine with aura experienced what appeared to be migrainous infarction characterized by dysmetropsia and transient Cotard’s syndrome. Imaging demonstrated right temporal-parietal-occipital changes with apparent cortical laminar necrosis.

Conclusion

The spectrum of the pathophysiology of migrainous infarction has not been established; however, cortical spreading depression may explain the appearance of imaging findings that do not obey a vascular territory.
Olfactory function in migraine both during and between attacks
Authors: Marmura Michael J , Monteith Teshamae S , Anjum Waseem , Doty Richard L , Hegarty Sarah E , Keith Scott W
Published: March 2014

Introduction

People with migraine often report being osmophobic, both during and between acute migraine attacks. It is not clear, however, whether such reports are associated with changes in olfaction such as hyperosmia, as measured by psychophysical testing. In this case-control study we quantitatively assessed olfactory identification ability, which correlates with threshold tests of olfactory acuity, in patients with migraine at baseline (no headache), during migraine episodes, and after a treated attack and compared the test scores to those of matched control subjects.

Methods

Fifty episodic migraine subjects and 50 and sex- and age-matched controls without headache were tested. All completed the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), a standardized and well-validated olfactory test.

Results

At baseline, the UPSIT scores did not differ significantly between the migraine and control study groups (median paired score difference: −1, p = 0.18). During migraine attacks, a minority of migraine subjects (eight of 42) developed microsmia (i.e. lower test scores by at least four points), suggesting that, as compared to their matched controls, olfactory acuity was somewhat impaired during migraine attacks ( p = 0.02). This difference was less pronounced and not statistically significant after a successfully treated attack ( p = 0.15).

Discussion

People with episodic migraine were found to have similar olfactory function as age- and sex-matched controls, but a minority exhibit microsmia or hyposmia during acute attacks. The cause of this dysfunction is unknown, but could relate to autonomic symptoms, limbic system activation, or disorders of higher order sensory processing.
Self-assembly of amphiphilic hyperbranched poly (aryl ether ketone)-block-poly (ethylene glycol) copolymer into microspheres with excellent thermal property
Authors: Guo Yunliang , Zhang Shuling , Yang Lilong , Li Feng , Li Wenlei , Du Yinlong , Wang Guibin
Published: March 2014

An amphiphilic hyperbranched rod-coil copolymer was synthesized by grafting linear poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) onto hydroxyl-terminated hyperbranched poly (aryl ether ketone) (OH-HPAEK). The molecular structure, the number-average molecular weight and the thermal properties of HPAEK- block-PEG were confirmed and characterized using proton nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The microspheres of HPAEK- block-PEG were fabricated by the method of self-assembly, and the morphology and diameter of the obtained microspheres were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. The heat-treated experimental results demonstrated that the polymer microspheres possessed excellent thermal property that could stably exist even if heated at 130°C for 10 h. In addition, the diameter of the microspheres can be easily controlled by just adjusting the concentration of the copolymer.
Stabilizing relay experiment for modeling of unstable processes with large time delay
Authors: Mehta Utkal
Published: March 2014

Relay experiment can be used to identify exact model parameters of an unstable first-order plus dead time transfer function when a limit cycle exists. This article deals with unstable processes with large time delay where the relay test is not applicable. For these processes, the conventional relay method does not induce a stable limit cycle at the output. A method to overcome the problems with inducing a sustained limit cycle output is discussed by deriving a suitable stabilizer for a feedback control. Then, a non-iterative estimation technique is given to identify the unknown parameters of a first-order mathematical model.
Adaptive position tracking control system based on recurrent fuzzy wavelet neural networks for robot manipulators
Authors: Mai ThangLong , Wang YaoNan
Published: March 2014

In this article, we propose an adaptive recurrent fuzzy wavelet neural network control strategy to improve high-accuracy position tracking for robot manipulators. In order to deal with the unknown knowledge of the robot system problems, the adaptive recurrent fuzzy wavelet neural networks are applied in the main controller to approximate the unknown dynamics without the requirement of prior knowledge. In addition, an adaptive robust control law is also developed to eliminate uncertainties that consist of estimation errors and disturbances from the robot control system. The design of the adaptive online learning algorithms is determined using the Lyapunov stability theorem. Therefore, the proposed controller proves that it can guarantee not only the stability and robustness but also the tracking performance of the robot manipulators control system. The effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method are demonstrated by comparative simulation and experimental results.
Knowledge Management Processes: A Case Study of NTPC and POWERGRID
Authors: Pandey Krishna Nath
Published: March 2014

The pre-dominance of power in infrastructure industry is a pivotal one and with the emergence of knowledge economy, it is imperative to use knowledge as an asset in power industry. Largely, knowledge-driven processes have occupied the central place in power industry as well. This necessitates that knowledge management is implemented in letter and spirit in this industry. Knowledge management processes are the most crucial part of knowledge management. This article outlines the knowledge management processes through an empirical study of the two leading power companies of India that is, NTPC and POWERGRID. The study has been carried out in these two companies by using secondary and primary data collected from various published sources besides from the companies under study.
Book Review: Rajat K. Baisya, Branding in a Competitive Market Place
Authors: Kalla Supriya M.
Published: March 2014

Rajat K. Baisya, Branding in a Competitive Market Place. New Delhi: SAGE Publications India Pvt Ltd, 2013, 229 pp. ₹ 450 (ISBN: 978-81-321-1059-0 [PB])
Identity constructions among breakdancers
Authors: Langnes Tonje F , Fasting Kari
Published: March 2014

The hip-hop culture has evolved from the ghettos of The Bronx, New York in the 1970s, into a global phenomenon. Despite such prominence there is an absence of academic research on the hip-hop culture element: breakdance. Through eight months of participant observations and 17 qualitative interviews, this study investigates the identity construction process among breakdancers with diverse ethnic backgrounds in Norway. The aim is to provide an insight into the lives of young people and their impression management in constructing a breaker identity. The analysis highlights the complex and contested nature of breakdance as it is experienced and viewed by young people performing breakdance in Norway. Through deliberate impression management the breakdancers construct an alternative identity detached from other social categories. As a result, breakdance seems to counter social oppression and to have an empowering and liberating potential different from the common stigmatization and stereotypical prejudices regarding gender and ethnicity that many have experienced.
An Overview of Audacity
Authors: Thompson Douglas Earl
Published: March 2014

This article is an overview of the open source audio-editing and -recording program, Audacity. Key features are noted, along with significant features not included in the program. A number of music and music technology concepts are identified that could be taught and/or reinforced through using Audacity.