bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fish Intake and the Risk of Incident Heart Failure
Authors: Belin Rashad J. , Greenland Philip , Martin Lisa , Oberman Albert , Tinker Lesley , Robinson Jennifer , Larson Joseph , Van Horn Linda , Lloyd-Jones Donald
Published: May 2011

Background—

Whether fish or the fatty acids they contain are independently associated with risk for incident heart failure (HF) among postmenopausal women is unclear.

Methods and Results—

The baseline Women's Health Initiative Observational Study cohort consisted of 93 676 women ages 50 to 79 years of diverse ethnicity and background, of which 84 493 were eligible for analyses. Intakes of baked/broiled fish, fried fish, and omega-3 fatty acid (eicosapentaenoic acid+docosahexaenoic acid, α-linolenic acid), and trans-fatty acid were determined from the Women's Health Initiative food frequency questionnaire. Baked/broiled fish consumption was divided into 5 frequency categories: <1/mo (referent), 1 to 3/mo, 1 to 2/wk, 3 to 4/wk, ≥5/wk. Fried fish intake was grouped into 3 frequency categories: <1/mo (referent), 1–3/mo, and ≥1/wk. Associations between fish or fatty acid intake and incident HF were determined using Cox models adjusting for HF risk factors and dietary factors. Baked/broiled fish consumption (≥5 servings/wk at baseline) was associated with a hazard ratio of 0.70 (95% confidence interval, 0.51 to 0.95) for incident HF. In contrast, fried fish consumption (≥1 serving/wk at baseline) was associated with a hazard ratio of 1.48 (95% confidence interval, 1.19 to 1.84) for incident HF. No significant associations were found between eicosapentaenoic acid+docosahexaenoic acid, α-linolenic acid, or trans-fatty acid intake and incident HF.

Conclusions—

Increased baked/broiled fish intake may lower HF risk, whereas increased fried fish intake may increase HF risk in postmenopausal women.
Difference of Tissue Characteristics Between Early and Very Late Restenosis Lesions After Bare-Metal Stent Implantation
Authors: Habara Maoto , Terashima Mitsuyasu , Nasu Kenya , Kaneda Hideaki , Inoue Katsumi , Ito Tsuyoshi , Kamikawa Shigeru , Kurita Tairo , Tanaka Nobuyoshi , Kimura Masashi , Kinoshita Yoshihisa , Tsuchikane Etsuo , Matsuo Hitoshi , Ueno Katsumi , Katoh Osamu , Suzuki Takahiko
Published: May 2011

Background—

Although in-stent restenosis (ISR) after bare-metal stent (BMS) implantation peaks in the early phase, very late (VL) ISR occasionally is observed beyond a few years after BMS implantation. To date, this mechanism has not been fully clarified.

Methods and Results—

We compared the morphological characteristics of VL-ISR (>5 years, without restenosis within the first year) (n=43) to those of early (E) ISR (within the first year) (n=39) using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Qualitative restenotic tissue analysis included assessment of tissue structure (homogeneous or heterogeneous), presence of microvessels, disrupted intima with cavity, and intraluminal material and was performed at every 1-mm slice of the entire stent. The proportions of cross-sections with heterogeneous intima in the entire stent was significantly higher in the VL-ISR group compared to the E-ISR group (60.5±28.5% versus 5.8±11.5%,
P
<0.0001), with heterogeneous intima being more frequently observed at the minimum lumen area site in the VL-ISR group (90.7% versus 17.9%,
P
<0.0001). Disrupted intima with cavity and intraluminal material also were observed more frequently in the VL-ISR group for the entire stent (18.6% versus 0%, 20.9% versus 2.6%,
P
<0.03) as well as at the minimum lumen area site (13.9% versus 0%,16.2% versus 0%,
P
<0.03).

Conclusions—

The morphological characteristics of restenotic tissue in VL-ISR were different from those in E-ISR and similar to atherosclerotic plaque. In BMS, progression of the atherosclerotic process within neointima after stent implantation may be associated with VL-ISR.
Changes in the Amplitude of the Temperature Annual Cycle in China and Their Implication for Climate Change Research
Authors: Qian Cheng , Fu Congbin , Wu Zhaohua
Published: May 2011

Climate change is not only reflected in the changes in annual means of climate variables but also in the changes in their annual cycles (seasonality), especially in the regions outside the tropics. In this study, the ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) method is applied to investigate the nonlinear trend in the amplitude of the annual cycle (which contributes 96% of the total variance) of China’s daily mean surface air temperature for the period 1961–2007. The results show that the variation and change in the amplitude are significant, with a peak-to-peak annual amplitude variation of 13% (1.8°C) of its mean amplitude and a significant linear decrease in amplitude by 4.6% (0.63°C) for this period. Also identified is a multidecadal change in amplitude from significant decreasing (−1.7% decade−1 or −0.23°C decade−1) to significant increasing (2.2% decade−1 or 0.29°C decade−1) occurring around 1993 that overlaps the systematic linear trend. This multidecadal change can be mainly attributed to the change in surface solar radiation, from dimming to brightening, rather than to a warming trend or an enhanced greenhouse effect. The study further proposes that the combined effect of the global dimming–brightening transition and a gradual increase in greenhouse warming has led to a perceived warming trend that is much larger in winter than in summer and to a perceived accelerated warming in the annual mean since the early 1990s in China. It also notes that the deseasonalization method (considering either the conventional repetitive climatological annual cycle or the time-varying annual cycle) can also affect trend estimation.
Mapping Bragg Scatter with a Polarimetric WSR-88D
Authors: Melnikov Valery M. , Doviak Richard J. , Zrnić Dusan S. , Stensrud David. J.
Published: May 2011

Using a polarimetric Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) radar to distinguish Bragg scatterers from insects and birds in an optically clear atmosphere has the potential to provide information on convective boundary layer depth. Measured median differential reflectivities ZDR of Bragg scatterers lie between −0.08 and 0.06 dB, which supports the hypothesis that the intrinsic ZDR of Bragg scatters is 0 dB. Thus, the intrinsic 0 dB of Bragg scatter can be used for verifying of ZDR radar calibration. Measured copolar correlation coefficients ρhv have distributions peaked at about 0.998–1.0. If insects and birds are spatially separated from Bragg scatterers, the dual-polarization capability of the WSR-88D allows distinguishing echoes from these two types of scatterers since ZDR from biota is significantly larger than 0 dB. In mixtures of Bragg and biota scatter, polarimetric spectral analysis shows differences in portions of the H and V spectra where birds and insects could be contaminating echoes from Bragg scatterers.

The values of ZDR ≈ 0 and ρhv ≈ 1 that characterize Bragg scatterers allow coherent summation of signals from the H and V receiver channels and restoration of measurement capability lost as a result of splitting power into H and V channels. Further enhancements to data collection and signal processing allow power measurement, with a standard deviation of about 1 dB, of weak echoes from Bragg scatterers having equivalent reflectivity factors of about −28 dBZ at distance of 10 km from the radar. This level of reflectivity corresponds to a refractive index structure parameter of about 4 × 10−15 m−2/3, a typical magnitude found in maritime air.
Simplified Active Array L-Band Radar for Atmospheric Wind Profiling: Initial Results
Authors: Srinivasulu P. , Yasodha P. , Jayaraman A. , Reddy S. N. , Satyanarayana S.
Published: May 2011

A simple approach is presented to implement an active aperture radar with a constrained beam-forming network that is adequate enough to generate multiple beams for atmospheric wind profiling. In this approach, elements of the antenna array are fed directly by dedicated transceiver modules, which are realized with commercially available communication components, making them low cost. A passive 2D beam-forming network distributes the exciter output signal and feeds the transceivers with appropriate phase distribution to generate different beams. This configuration, which is a simplified active array, eliminates the feed loss and achieves the best signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), thereby increases range coverage. Consequently, this scheme allows for a smaller antenna size when compared to a conventional passive array system, for the given range performance, and makes the wind profiler compact and transportable. A 1280-MHz, 64-element simplified active array radar has been developed, successfully validated, and is being operated at Gadanki, a tropical station in south India. Measured winds are in good agreement with those obtained with a collocated GPS sonde technique. This paper presents the configuration and sample results of the system.
Voters, Parties, and Declared Government Policy
Authors: Warwick Paul V.
Published: May 2011

A perennial question for students of democracy is the extent to which government policies align with voter preferences. This is often studied by comparing median voter opinion on a left–right scale with the cabinet weighted mean, that is, the mean left–right position of cabinet parties, weighted by their legislative sizes. Government positions may also be estimated from their declarations, however. In a recent investigation, McDonald and Budge found that declared government policy better accords with the voter median than with the cabinet weighted mean, a finding they interpreted as consistent with their hypothesis that actual government policy tends to reflect a “median mandate.” This investigation retests the McDonald–Budge model using a time-series cross-section methodology and an expanded data set. It finds no support for a median mandate interpretation but strong evidence that declared government positions respond to the positions of cabinet parties and, where present, external support parties. It also reveals a tendency for declared positions to be shifted to the right of the cabinet mean, a tendency that increases with the length of time that has elapsed since the last election (particularly for left-wing governments). This evidence that the policies governments set out to implement are systematically “right shifted” bears major consequences for our understanding of representative democracy.
The characteristics of people with mental illness who are under treatment in traditional healer centres in Sudan
Authors: Sorketti Ehab Ali , Zainal Nor Zuraida , Habil Mohamad Hussain
Published: May 2011

Aims: To determine the general characteristics of people with mental disorders in traditional healers centres in Sudan in terms of sociodemographic profile, common clinical presentations and diagnostic features, and to look at the treatment methods and intervention procedures used in these centres for treating people with mental illness.

Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. All inpatients with mental illness (405) from 10 selected traditional healers centres in Sudan who gave consent were interviewed, using a specially designed questionnaire and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI).

Results: Most of the visitors to the centres were from central Sudan with a mean age of 31 years, illiterate or with only a primary basic education, male and jobless. The average mean duration of stay in the traditional healer centre was five months and the mean duration of untreated illness before coming to the centre was 13 months. Only 17% reported a history of alcohol abuse and only 11% of drug abuse. The most common prevalent diagnosis was psychotic disorder.

Conclusion: This study improves the understanding about what types of people with mental illness are treated at these traditional healer centres and gives recommendations that can help in improving the quality of services in these centres. It can probably be used in building bridges of collaboration between these centres and the available mental health and psychiatric services in Sudan, especially at primary healthcare level.
Fabrication of an ionic polymer—carbon nanotube composite for a new configurative actuator
Authors: Du Fei-Peng , Tang Chak-Yin , Zhou Xing-Ping , Xie Xiao-Lin
Published: May 2011

In this study, an ionic polymer—carbon nanotube composite (IPNTC) was developed to function as a new configurative actuator. The IPNTC was fabricated with carbon nanotube-reinforced ionic polymer as electroactive middle layer and functional multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) diaphragm as electrode layers coated on the two sides of the membrane. Scanning electron microscopy images show that the interface between functional MWNT-diaphragms and polymer membrane has strong adhesion. Furthermore, the MWNT-diaphragm has a uniform dense porous structure, and MWNTs entangle and interpenetrate each other. The IPNTC actuator has remarkable displacement output under low-voltage stimulation and it can last for 3000 cycles with only 10% reduction in the displacement output.
Advanced hollow epoxy particle-filled composites
Authors: Low L.F. , Abu Bakar A.
Published: May 2011

The micro-spherical hollow epoxy particles (HEPs) were prepared using water-based emulsion method in this study. It is determined that spherical HEP with desirable size, shape, and structure can be produced using the homogenizing time of 9 min under the homogenizing speed of 15,000 rpm. The HEPs produced were then incorporated into the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A epoxy matrix to strengthen and toughen the epoxy matrix. The HEP-reinforced composites were prepared using simple casting technique. The fracture toughness, tensile strength, tensile modulus, and flexural strength of HEP-reinforced epoxy composites increase with increasing the HEP loading up to 3 wt% after which there is a drop. The strengthening and toughening of epoxy composites involves the interlocking of epoxy matrix into the pore region on the HEP. The interlocking mechanism was further supported by the fracture morphology of the epoxy composites observed under scanning electron microscope.
An investigation into the effect of ball milling of reinforcement on the enhanced mechanical response of magnesium
Authors: Habibi Meisam Kouhi , Tun Khin Sandar , Gupta Manoj
Published: May 2011

Magnesium composites containing as-received and ball-milled (B) Al particles were synthesized through powder metallurgy route using microwave-assisted rapid sintering technique followed by hot extrusion. Microstructural characterization revealed fairly uniform distribution of both as-received and ball-milled (up to 1.626 vol.%) Al particles in the matrix and reduction in average matrix grain size. Compared to monolithic Mg, Mg/Al, and Mg/Al (B) composites exhibited significantly higher strengths and failure strains. The results revealed that strength and failure strain (up to 1.626 vol.% Al) of composites containing ball-milled Al particles remained higher compared to composites containing as-received Al particles. Compared to monolithic Mg, Mg/1.626Al (B) composite exhibited the best mechanical properties improvement with an increase of 78%, 79%, 87%, and 225%, in 0.2%YS, UTS, failure strain and WOF, respectively, while for Mg/1.626Al composite, the improvement was 51%, 53%, 65% and 142%, respectively. The effects of as-received and ball-milled Al particles contribution on the enhancement of mechanical properties of Mg is investigated in this article.
Investigation of temperature-dependent mechanical properties of CdS/PMMA nanocomposites
Authors: Agrawal Sonalika , Patidar Dinesh , Saxena N.S.
Published: May 2011

Nanoparticles of chemically synthesized CdS with the different weight percents (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 wt%) have been embedded into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) by solution casting method. The obtained CdS/PMMA nanocomposites are characterized through small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscope measurements. Temperature-dependent mechanical properties of CdS/PMMA nanocomposites have been studied at different temperatures (30, 50, 70, and 90°C) using stress–strain behavior through dynamic mechanical analyzer. Results indicate that CdS nanoparticles are uniformly distributed at low weight percent, and agglomeration of particles is observed at high weight percent and all the quantities obtained from stress–strain relations, i.e., Young’s modulus, tensile strength, and fracture energy increase up to 6 wt.% of CdS nanoparticles and then decrease for further increase of weight percent of CdS nanoparticles.
Viscose material functionalized by chitosan as a potential treatment in gynecology
Authors: Fras Zemljic Lidija , Sauperl Olivera , But Igor , Zabret Andrej , Lusicky Marija
Published: May 2011

This paper presents the functionalization of viscose cellulose material with chitosan for potential application in cellulose tampons for everyday use that would not display negative side effects, such as irritation of the vaginal wall, toxic shock syndrome, etc. The technological parameters of tampons, amount of amino groups due to chitosan adsorption, and the antimicrobial activity of the tampons were analyzed.

Aqueous chitosan solutions buffered with lactic or acetic acid were sprayed on viscose fibers, from which tampons were prepared and dried at 40°C in an air chamber or at room temperature. Adsorption of chitosan was determined by conductometric titration. The absorptivity and antimicrobial activity of the tampons were determined by standard methods. It is concluded that tampons prepared in this way possess the following new properties: maintenance of the physiological pH of the vagina together with its moisturizing effect, good technical properties, and antimycotic, as well as antibacterial, activity.
Electronic textile resistor design and fabric resistivity characterization
Authors: Petersen Pam , Helmer Richard , Pate Margaret , Eichhoff Julian
Published: May 2011

Electronic components formed from electrically conductive textiles require a clear characterization of properties, such as electrical resistance, to enable the design and manufacture of safe and reliable electronic textile devices. The low dimensional stability of some electroactive fabrics can present challenges to electronic characterization. In this study, an electrical resistor was formed within a fabric by sewing a highly conductive metallic coated thread into less conductive fabric. A knitted fabric treated with polypyrrole was used to explore the effect of stitch parameters on the quality of the intra-fabric connection. A 1.5—2 mm straight stitch was identified as a reliable method for intra-fabric connection. A range of fabrics with different structures was sewn in this way and the electrical resistance characterization was compared with two other methods. The interaction of materials and processing for electronic textile characterization, component design, and manufacture is discussed.
The analysis of attenuation of electromagnetic field by woven structures based on hybrid fancy yarns
Authors: Grabowska Katarzyna Ewa , Marciniak Katarzyna , Ciesielska-Wróbel Izabela Luiza
Published: May 2011

In this paper we present an analysis of attenuation by woven structures produced from hybrid yarns. The woven structures have been designed for protection against electromagnetic fields (EMFs). The idea of creating hybrid yarns that may intensively protect against EMFs comes from the analogy discovered between the construction of a fancy bunch yarn and an electric system composed of electro-conductive solenoids on a ferromagnetic material connected in series and then in parallel. The application of hybrid fancy yarn as a weft made of copper as a special effect thread insulated with lacquer and wrapped around a core of steel thread in a textile fabric will enable EMF attenuation as a result of inducing an electromotive force in the special effect thread and magnetizing the core thread. In this way, the designed electric circuit (textile fabric) in the variable primary EMF will be the source of a secondary EMF directed opposite to the direction of the primary field. The fabricated woven structures present electrical and magnetic components of EMF attenuation in some narrow ranges.
Opioid Receptor Modulation of Hedonic Taste Preference and Food Intake: A Single‐Dose Safety, Pharmacokinetic, and Pharmacodynamic Investigation With GSK1521498, a Novel μ‐Opioid Receptor Inverse Agonist
Authors: Nathan Pradeep J. , O'Neill Barry V. , Bush Mark A. , Koch Annelize , Tao Wenli X. , Maltby Kay , Napolitano Antonella , Brooke Allison C. , Skeggs Andrew L. , Herman Craig S. , Larkin Andrew L. , Ignar Diane M. , Richards Duncan B. , Williams Pauline M. , Bullmore Edward T.
Published: May 2011

Endogenous opioids and μ‐opioid receptors have been linked to hedonic and rewarding aspects of palatable food intake. The authors examined the safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profile of GSK1521498, a μ‐opioid receptor inverse agonist that is being investigated primarily for the treatment of overeating behavior in obesity. In healthy participants, GSK1521498 oral solution and capsule formulations were well tolerated up to a dose of 100 mg. After single doses (10–150 mg), the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC) in plasma increased in a dose‐proportional manner. GSK1521498 selectively reduced sensory hedonic ratings of high‐sugar and high‐fat dairy products and caloric intake of high‐fat/high‐sucrose snack foods. These findings provide encouraging data in support of the development of GSK1521498 for the treatment of disorders of maladaptive ingestive behavior or compulsive consumption.
Pharmacokinetics of Levodopa/Carbidopa Delivered From Gastric‐Retentive Extended‐Release Formulations in Patients With Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Chen Cuiping , Cowles Verne E. , Sweeney Mike , Stolyarov Igor D. , Illarioshkin Sergey N.
Published: May 2011

The investigators conducted a single‐dose pharmacokinetic (PK) study of levodopa/carbidopa delivered from novel gastric‐retentive extended‐release (ER) tablets versus a comparator ER tablet (M‐ER) in patients with Parkinson's disease. Two levodopa/carbidopa (200 mg/50 mg) gastric‐retentive ER formulations (4 hours and 6 hours) and M‐ER were administered orally with food. Blood samples were collected for up to 24 hours post dose to determine levodopa and carbidopa concentrations. Tolerability was assessed by monitoring adverse events and measuring vital signs. PK modeling was conducted to estimate the release characteristics for future gastric‐retentive ER formulations to achieve a less fluctuating plasma concentration profiles. Compared with M‐ER, both gastric‐retentive ER formulations exhibited a longer time to reach a lower maximal plasma concentration for levodopa and carbidopa. The 4‐hour formulation demonstrated a similar area under the concentration‐time curve compared with M‐ER, whereas the 6‐hour formulation demonstrated a lower area under the concentration‐time curve. All formulations were well tolerated. Modeling suggests that a gastric‐retentive ER formulation with a longer release duration administered twice daily may achieve a less fluctuating levodopa concentration profile than M‐ER administered 3 times daily. This study demonstrates that gastric‐retentive ER dosage forms may reduce dose frequency while minimizing the plasma peak‐to‐trough fluctuation and consequently reduce motor fluctuation in patients with Parkinson's disease.
Cads and Dads on Screen
Authors: Taylor Laramie D.
Published: May 2011

Two laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the effect of exposure to varying media representations of partner availability on the traits women found desirable in potential romantic and sexual partners. In each study, after watching media narratives featuring either an abundance or scarcity of male prospective sexual partners, women indicated their interest in hypothetical sexual partners with characteristics typical of the Cad (e.g., aggressive, promiscuous) or Dad (e.g. devoted, upright) for long-term and short-term relationships. Viewing any romantic narrative caused a decline in interest in a partner with Cad traits, particularly for a short-term relationship. Viewing romantic narratives in which romantic relationships were framed in terms of male abundance caused women with short-term relationship goals to be less interested in a partner with Dad traits; viewing the male scarcity trailers caused a similar reduction for women with long-term relationship goals.
Social Media Activism in Response to the Influence of Political Parody Videos on YouTube
Authors: Lim Joon Soo , Golan Guy J.
Published: May 2011

Grounded in scholarship on both the perceptual and behavioral components of the third-person effect, the present experimental study examined the effects of perceived impact of political parody videos on self and on others, by varying the perceived intent of the video producer and perceived level of exposure. Building on previous research on the behavioral consequences of such presumed influence, we tested a hierarchical regression model to show how perceived influence on others predicted individuals’ willingness to engage in social media activism (i.e., corrective actions). Results demonstrated that participants in our study showed greater perceived influence of the political parody video when it was presented by a source of highly persuasive intent than by a source of low persuasive intent. Unlike our prediction for the effect of perceived exposure, we did not find the effect of perceived level of exposure on the presumed influence on others. Finally, the results of a hierarchical regression analysis showed that the perception of influence on others was positively associated with participants’ willingness to take a corrective action—the likelihood of engaging in political social media activism.
Description of a Practitioner Model for Identifying Preferred Stimuli With Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Karsten Amanda M. , Carr James E. , Lepper Tracy L.
Published: May 2011

The rich technology of stimulus preference assessment (SPA) is a product of 40 years of experimental research. Basic principles of reinforcement and a modest empirical literature suggest that high-preference stimuli identified via SPA may enhance treatment efficacy and decrease problem behavior more effectively than less-preferred stimuli. SPAs can be conducted using one of several methods associated with different time requirements and outcomes. Despite the broad applicability of preference assessments, we are unaware of widely available practitioner guidelines that prescribe when to use SPAs, how to select and modify specific SPA procedures, and how to supplement SPAs with other procedures for maximizing performance. The purpose of the current article is to describe a model for practitioners to select and conduct preference assessments based on practical considerations and research findings. Data are also reported from the application of the proposed model to preference assessments for 20 individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.
A Comparison of Reliability Measures for Continuous and Discontinuous Recording Methods: Inflated Agreement Scores With Partial Interval Recording and Momentary Time Sampling for Duration Events
Authors: Rapp John T. , Carroll Regina A. , Stangeland Lindsay , Swanson Greg , Higgins William J.
Published: May 2011

The authors evaluated the extent to which interobserver agreement (IOA) scores, using the block-by-block method for events scored with continuous duration recording (CDR), were higher when the data from the same sessions were converted to discontinuous methods. Sessions with IOA scores of 89% or less with CDR were rescored using 10-s partial interval recording (PIR) and 10-s momentary time sampling (MTS). Results indicated that IOA scores for 10-s PIR and 10-s MTS were consistently higher than IOA scores based on CDR for the same sessions. Specifically, 10-s MTS provided higher overestimations for low-duration events, whereas 10-s PIR produced higher overestimations for moderate- and high-duration events. Implications for researchers and clinicians are briefly discussed.
Mood and Trust in Intuition Interactively Orchestrate Correspondence Between Implicit and Explicit Attitudes
Authors: Huntsinger Jeffrey R.
Published: May 2011

The goal of the current research was to subject the prediction that affect and trust in intuition would interactively shape implicit and explicit attitude correspondence to empirical assessment. In four experiments, either trust versus distrust in intuition was measured or manipulated and positive or negative moods were induced. The outcome of interest was correspondence between implicit and explicit academic attitudes (Experiments 1–2) and self-attitudes (Experiments 3–4). As predicted, affect served as information about chronically or temporarily accessible tendencies to trust or distrust their intuitions, with positive affect validating and negative affect invalidating such tendencies, which in turn shaped correspondence between implicit and explicit attitudes. By drawing together these two seemingly unrelated lines of research, these experiments provide important insights into the sometimes mysterious circumstances in which implicit attitudes are translated into explicit attitude reports.
Implementing a whole school approach to support speech, language and communication: Perceptions of key staff
Authors: Leyden Jenny , Stackhouse Joy , Szczerbinski Marcin
Published: May 2011

The role of language for learning is core across the entire school curriculum. Thus, children with speech, language and communication needs are at risk of underachieving academically. Research reports and policy drivers advocate the need for a whole school approach (WSA) to enhance children’s spoken language and communication skills, yet little is known about what it is like for schools to implement such a programme. Primary Talk is an example of a WSA, developed and piloted by the UK-based charity I CAN. This article presents an evaluation of what it was like for staff to implement a WSA in their schools. Head teachers and WSA coordinators from five schools were interviewed regarding the perceived benefits and challenges of implementing a WSA. Thematic analysis of the interview data indicated that the programme was worthwhile to implement and that it enhanced the use of visual support strategies and adult—child directed speech. The respondents also identified a number of challenges while implementing the programme relating to time constraints and maintaining the WSA as high profile in the context of competing demands in their schools.
Effects of combined balanced colloid and crystalloid on rotational thromboelastometry in vitro
Authors: Lindroos A-C , Schramko AA , Niiya T , Suojaranta-Ylinen RT , Niemi TT
Published: May 2011

Our objective was to investigate the in vitro effects of a totally balanced fluid concept on whole blood coagulation. Venous blood from 12 healthy volunteers was diluted by 20% and 40% with a combination of an equal amount of colloid (balanced or unbalanced 6% HES 130/0.4, or 4% gelatin) and crystalloid (balanced or unbalanced Ringer’s acetate). Blood samples were analyzed with rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®).

The initiation of coagulation was delayed in all dilutions except for the 20 vol% gelatin-dilution. In the extrinsic activation test, maximum clot firmness was decreased and clot formation time prolonged after 40 vol% hemodilution with a balanced Ringer’s/unbalanced HES combination, more than in the corresponding gelatin hemodilution. In the fibrin-based test, after both 20- and 40 vol% hemodilution with unbalanced Ringer’s/gelatin solution, maximum clot firmness was significantly stronger than in the Ringer’s/HES-combinations.

The combination of balanced colloid and crystalloid has similar coagulation effects in vitro as their respective combination of unbalanced solutions.
Dynamics of polyelectrolyte complex formation and stability as a polyanion is progressively added to a polycation under modeled physicochemical blood conditions
Authors: Leclercq L. , Boustta M. , Vert M.
Published: May 2011

To understand the fate of anionic macromolecular species when injected into blood, poly(acrylic acid) and poly(L-lysine citramide) polyanions, with better charge densities, and the poly(L-lysine) polycation were used as models of negatively charged polymer—drug conjugates and positively charged blood proteins, respectively. To mimic an intravenous injection, the polyanion was added to the poly(L-lysine) stepwise at room temperature. The polyelectrolyte complexes formed as precipitates and the molar mass fractionation was observed from one fraction to the other, especially in the case of largely polydispersed poly(L-lysine). The salt concentration necessary to return each fraction of complexed polyelectrolyte back to solution varied linearly with the logarithm of the molar mass of the polycation component. The physicochemical characteristics data of the polyelectrolytes and the media are compared to previously reported reverse mixing mode when the polycation is introduced into a solution of polyanions.
Poly (L-lactic acid)/calcium-deficient nanohydroxyapatite electrospun mats for bone marrow stem cell cultures
Authors: Bianco Alessandra , Bozzo Barbara Marida , Del Gaudio Costantino , Cacciotti Ilaria , Armentano Ilaria , Dottori Mariaserena , D'Angelo Francesco , Martino Sabata , Orlacchio Aldo , Kenny Josè Maria
Published: May 2011

Electrospinning of bioresorbable polymers is a promising and valuable scaffolding technique. To improve its potential applications, the addition of specific fillers has been considered. This paper reports the fabrication of electrospun poly(L-lactic acid)/Ca-deficient-hydroxyapatite (PLLA/dHAp) mats, the content of nanosized d-HAp ranged between 1 and 8 wt%. All samples consisted of micrometric and submicrometric fibers, comprising 2D voids of 8 and 13 µm for PLLA and PLLA/d-HAp mats, respectively. The surface of the electrospun fibers was characterized by an uniform distribution of nanopores. Hybrid mats loaded with 1 wt% d-HAp showed the most homogeneous microstructure, differently from the mats loaded with 4 and 8 wt% d-HAp due to the presence of microagglomerates. The viscoelastic properties of PLLA/d-HAp hybrids were characterized by a decreasing trend of the storage modulus with increases in the nanofiller content. The microstructure, viscoelastic behavior, and cytocompatibility were investigated using murine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. On the basis of the biological data, the electrospun PLLA and PLLA/d-HAp mats can be regarded as potential scaffolds for bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells culture.
Gradient patterning and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells on micropatterned polymer surface
Authors: Wei Song  , Hongxu Lu  , Kawazoe Naoki , Guoping Chen
Published: May 2011

A micropatterned surface with different area ratios of cell-adhesive to nonadhesive surfaces was prepared by micropatterning poly(vinyl alcohol) on a polystyrene plate using photolithography. A gradient pattern of mesenchymal stem cells of different cell densities was generated by culturing the cells on a micropatterned surface. The effects of the cell density gradient on cell functions such as proliferation and differentiation were investigated. Cells seeded at a low density proliferated faster than cells seeded at a high density. Although mesenchymal stem cells seeded at both low and high densities showed osteogenic differentiation, the higher cell seeding density could initiate osteogenic differentiation at a faster rate than the low cell density. And high cell density was required to induce chondrogenic differentiation.
Preparation and comparative study of a new porous polyethylene ocular implant using powder printing technology
Authors: Suwanprateeb J. , Suvannapruk W. , Wasoontararat K. , Leelapatranurak K. , Wanumkarng N. , Sintuwong S.
Published: May 2011

In this study, polyethylene (PE) was fabricated with porosity greater than 60% and 140—830 µm pore sizes which is suitable for fibrovascularization. The process involved three-dimensional printing of PE particles with water soluble adhesive powders followed by two-stepped heat treatment at 145°C with binder leaching between steps. Spherical ocular implants were fabricated by this process that had pore size, shaping and suturing ability comparable to commercially available porous PE (Medpor®), but had lower density, higher porosity, and antibiotic uptake, as well as, more uniform pore interconnectivity and lower needle exertion force for suturing.
How to Increase Response Rates in List-Based Web Survey Samples
Authors: Keusch Florian
Published: May 2011

The rising popularity of online surveys in marketing research precipitates a flood of e-mail invitations requesting participation from potential respondents. As a result, response rates are diminishing, reflecting a decline in the willingness to participate in web surveys. To compare the effectiveness of different response-enhancing techniques in a list-based web survey, an experiment with a full factorial between-subjects design varying the factors sender, number of contacts, and questionnaire layout was set up. A total of 1,563 members from a list of information technology (IT) managers employed at Austrian companies were assigned randomly to one of eight experimental conditions. Their willingness to participate was measured in terms of total response and break off. The results indicate that using a prenotification message and a female sender for contacting male sample members increases response rates; using an advanced questionnaire layout significantly reduces break offs, but does not influence total response.
Computational fluid dynamics investigation and multi-objective optimization of an engine air-cooling system using genetic algorithm
Authors: Najafi B , Najafi H , Idalik M D
Published: May 2011

In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis is utilized in order to determine the convective heat transfer coefficient of an engine air-cooling system in different air velocity conditions. Various models with different geometric configurations are considered. Based on the CFD results, two formulas are proposed to approximate the values of convective heat transfer coefficients in zero and non-zero air velocities. Finally, two conflicting objective functions including volume of the required material for construction of the finned cylinder and heat release per unit temperature difference are considered. Multi-objective optimization using genetic algorithm is utilized, which generates a multiple set of solutions, each of which is a trade-off between two objectives. The user can select each of the optimal geometric configurations based on the project's requirements. In other words, considering the desired thermal design, designer is able to find the minimum volume of the required material for construction of the finned cylinder, which in turn leads to the least possible capital cost.
Evidence of thermoplastic instability about segmented chip formation process for Ti–6Al–4V alloy based on the finite-element method
Authors: Chen G , Ren C , Yang X , Guo T
Published: May 2011

A ductile failure law and an energy-based failure criterion have been implemented in a 2D finite-element (FE) model to simulate the segmented chip formation process in titanium alloy (Ti–6Al–4V) machining. The variations of stress and strain are taken into account in defining the material failure criterion. The cutting forces and chip morphology calculated by FE model are compared with experimental results in good agreement, validating the FE model. Stresses, strains, cutting temperatures, and stiffness degradation along adiabatic shear bands (ASBs) are analysed during the segment formation process to investigate the segment formation mechanism. It is found that the variation trend of strains is the same as that of temperatures, in addition, the variation of strains and their changing-rate lag slightly behind those of temperatures. These observations provide a new evidence of thermoplastic instability along ASB and increase the understanding of segmented chip formation mechanism. Furthermore, simulation results show that ASB morphology and its forming mechanism are mainly caused by thermoplastic instability in primary deformation zone and friction characteristic in the second deformation zone.
Influence of combined assembly error and bearing elasticity on spur gear tooth contact load distribution
Authors: Wang J , Qin D , Lim T C
Published: May 2011

A numerical method to analyse the influence of assembly error on spur gear tooth contact load distribution considering bearing elasticity is formulated. In the proposed approach, a set of transformation matrices are used to define the deviation in tooth geometry orientation from the ideal position due to the bearing elasticity and assembly error. To calculate the gear tooth deflection, the theory of contact mechanics is applied to determine the micro deformation field at the surface layer of the contact region, while the finite element model is used to represent the bulk deformation in the rest of the gear structure. An efficient search strategy for obtaining the true contact points of the deformed tooth is employed. In this strategy, the tooth contact load distribution is determined based on the smallest distance between each pair of candidate contact points within a cross-section of the mating teeth, and as well as the corresponding force and moment balance conditions. Finally, the proposed model is applied to analyse the effect of assembly errors defined at eight circumferential positions on the tooth deformation in a geared rotor system comprising of four elastic bearings.
A study of the free vibration of flexible-link flexible-joint manipulators
Authors: Vakil M , Fotouhi R , Nikiforuk P N , Heidari F
Published: May 2011

In this article, explicit expressions for the frequency equation, mode shapes, and orthogonality of the mode shapes of a Single Flexible-link Flexible-joint manipulator (SFF) are presented. These explicit expressions are derived in terms of non-dimensional parameters which make them suitable for a sensitivity study; sensitivity study addresses the degree of dependence of the system’s characteristics to each of the parameters. The SFF carries a payload which has both mass and mass moment of inertia. Hence, the closed-form expressions incorporate the effect of payload mass and its mass moment of inertia, that is, the payload mass and its size. To check the accuracy of the derived analytical expressions, the results from these analytical expressions were compared with those obtained from the finite element method. These comparisons showed excellent agreement. By using the closed-form frequency equation presented in this article, a study on the changes in the natural frequencies due to the changes in the joint stiffness is performed. An upper limit for the joint stiffness of a SFF is established such that for the joint stiffness above this limit, the natural frequencies of a SFF are very close to those of its flexible-link rigid-joint counterpart. Therefore, the value of this limit can be used to distinguish a SFF from its flexible-link rigid-joint manipulator counterpart. The findings presented in this article enhance the accuracy and time-efficiency of the dynamic modeling of flexible-link flexible-joint manipulators. These findings also improve the performance of model-based controllers, as the more accurate the dynamic model, the better the performance of the model-based controllers.
Student affect regarding library-based and web-based research before and after an information literacy course
Authors: Bell Judy Carol
Published: May 2011

Affective responses toward library- and web-based research were measured in surveys administered before and after an eight-week, one-credit-hour, university course in information literacy. Affect refers to attitudinal and emotional responses as measured via Likert scale questions regarding: like-dislike, difficulty-ease, confidence-anxiety, and interest-boredom. Approximately 90 students participated. Affective responses to web-based research (WR) did not appreciably change and remained more positive than responses to library-based research (LR). However, affect responses to LR increased positively by 9 percent for all students. The most notable LR affect increases among sub-groups were: (1) 13 percent among males and (2) 28 percent among the 21—24 age group. (Numbers are rounded.)
Evolution of Automotive Clusters and Interactive Learning in Thailand
Authors: Techakanont Kriengkrai , Charoenporn Peera
Published: May 2011

This paper analyses the evolution of clusters and ‘interactive learning’ in upgrading manufacturing capabilities. We analyse the upgrading process in line with key concepts constituting ‘interactive learning’, which include clusters and agglomeration (regional) innovation systems, open innovation and localised learning. On the basis of analysis at firm and industry-wide levels, this paper contributes to current literature concerning clusters and innovation that relate to technological upgrading in locally based firms by (1) examining the role of governments in promoting clusters and regional development; (2) identifying the conditions important for firm agglomeration and how agglomeration leads to knowledge-sharing at horizontal, vertical and institutional levels; (3) discussing the role of foreign firms in transferring technology and encouraging their suppliers to share knowledge within the production network; and (4) reporting on the characteristics and determinants of R&D cooperation within the Thai manufacturing sector. The main findings reveal that developing countries, including Thailand at this moment, may have limitations in their science and technology base. This can hinder their upward progression on the global value chain. It is of particular importance for government policy to be more supportive, rather than regulative, in order to strengthen the scientific knowledge base and promote cooperation between indigenous firms and innovation in supporting organisations.
R&D in Public Enterprises
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: May 2011

The paper examines the factors influencing R&D in manufacturing companies. On using data on a large sample of public companies in India for 1987–2005, the findings indicate that increases in firm size are likely to be associated with increase in R&D up to a threshold. In terms of magnitudes, increase in size by ‘10 million raises the amount of R&D, on average, increase by ‘0.3 million. The evidence is also supportive of the fact that both the intensity of R&D as well as innovation activity is lower for leveraged firms. Finally, the findings fail to discern any significant improvement in R&D intensity in the post-reform period; although there is a noticeable decline in innovation activity after reforms. Privatisation does not seem to have exerted any perceptible influence on R&D behaviour of public firms.
Development and Social Diffusion of Technological Innovation
Authors: Yun Jin-Hyo Joseph , Park Sangmoon , Avvari Mohan V.
Published: May 2011

This paper examines the development and social diffusion of technological innovation for national emergency management. Innovations have been developed in the interactive processes among technology, market and social context. On the basis of two case studies of innovations for disaster management, this paper investigates innovation processes within social contexts and the role of innovation actors such as government, private sector and citizens in the development and diffusion of the innovations. Through these cases its shown how innovations in emergency/disaster management could be developed under social contexts utilising ‘open innovation’ frameworks popular in private sector. The cases also show how end-users can participate in the innovation processes in public sector. Finally, the paper suggests implications to accelerate and increase innovations for social welfare and social change.