bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planck-Weighted Transmittance and Correction of Solar Reflection for Broadband Infrared Satellite Channels
Authors: Chen Yong , Weng Fuzhong , Han Yong , Liu Quanhua
Published: November 2011

The line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM) is used to derive the channel transmittances. The channel transmittance from a level to the top of the atmosphere can be approximated by three methods: Planck-weighted transmittance 1 (PW1), Planck-weighted transmittance 2 (PW2), and non-Planck-weighted transmittance (ORD). The PW1 method accounts for a radiance variation across the instrument’s spectral response function (SRF) and the Planck function is calculated with atmospheric layer temperature, whereas the PW2 method accounts for the variation based on the temperatures at the interface between atmospheric layers. For channels with broad SRFs, the brightness temperatures (BTs) derived from the ORD are less accurate than these from either PW1 or PW2. Furthermore, the BTs from PW1 are more accurate than these from PW2, and the BT differences between PW1 and PW2 increase with atmospheric optical thickness.

When the band correction is larger than 1, the PW1 method should be used to account for the Planck radiance variation across the instrument’s SRF. When considering the solar contribution in daytime, the correction of the solar reflection has been made for near-infrared broadband channels (~3.7 μm) when using PW1 transmittance. The solar transmittance is predicted by using explanatory variables, such as PW1 transmittance, the secant of zenith angle, and the surface temperature. With this correction, the errors can be significantly reduced.
The Value of Air Quality Forecasting in the Mid-Atlantic Region
Authors: Garner Gregory G. , Thompson Anne M.
Published: November 2011

Air quality forecasts produced by the National Air Quality Forecast Capability (NAQFC), human air quality forecasters, and persistence are evaluated for predictive skill and economic value when used to inform decisions regarding pollutant emission and exposure. Surface ozone forecasts and observations were collected from 40 monitors representing eight forecast regions throughout Washington, D.C.; Virginia; and Maryland over the 2005–09 ozone seasons (April–October). The skill of the forecasts are quantified using discrete statistics, such as correlation, mean bias, and root-mean-square error, and categorical statistics, such as exceedance hit rate, false alarm rate, and critical success index. The value of the forecasts are quantified using a decision model based on costs to protect the public against a poor air quality event and the losses incurred if no protective measures are taken. The results indicate that the most skillful forecast method is not necessarily the most valuable forecast method. Air shed managers need to consider multiple forecast methods when deciding on multiple protective measures, because a single measure of forecast skill can often hide the user’s sensitivity to forecast error for a specific decision.
Commemorative Place Names — Their Specificity and Problems
Authors: David Jaroslav
Published: November 2011

AbstractThis paper focuses on the distinctive features of a particular type of geographical name, referred to as commemorative place names: e.g. Bat´ov, Gottwaldov, Frunze, Leningrad, or Stalingrad. These features are illustrated with primarily Czech toponymic material, presented in comparison to Slovak, Russian, Yugoslav, and Bulgarian place names. Commemorative names display several specific and distinctive features as a consequence of their dependence on political regimes and ideologies. These features include the domination of naming above other onymic functions and the elevation of naming to a symbolic act; instability, manifested in frequent changes and renamings; high ideological value, reflected in the importance of equivalence between the place and its name; and certain difficulties involved in using such place names in everyday communication. These distinctive features could be considered compelling reasons for the establishment of a specific type of geographical name, termed “commemorative place names.”
Approximations in using solubility products for B, N, Ti and Al
Authors: Khare S
Published: November 2011

The addition of boron in just a few parts per million can influence the hardenability of steel, provided it remains in solid solution. To protect boron from forming nitrides, titanium and aluminium which have a strong affinity for nitrogen are added in optimised proportions. The amount of soluble boron in such multicomponent systems can be estimated using commercial software available based on thermodynamic databases. Alternatively, the so called simultaneous and sequential methods permit the soluble boron concentration to be estimated using solubility products. The reliability of these methods has been investigated and compared with a different approach, the stepwise method based on the solubility product of various nitrides under equilibrium conditions.
Effect of SnO–SiO2 composite coating on bonding of titanium–porcelain
Authors: Guo L T , Liu X M , Zhang Y , Guo L Z , Zhu Y B , Guo T W
Published: November 2011

The SnO–SiO2 composite coating was deposited on titanium (Ti) by sol–gel dipping process. The adhesion between the Ti and porcelain was evaluated by three point flexure bonding test. The results of thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry analysis showed that the optimal heat treating temperature for SnO–SiO2 composite coating was 300°C. The SEM results revealed that the existence of microcracks on the SnO–SiO2 composite coatings surface after being treated at 300°C. The Ti oxide was formed along the crack. Failure of the Ti–porcelain predominantly occurred at the SnO–SiO2 composite coatings. SnO–SiO2 composite coatings served as an effective oxygen diffusion barrier, improved the chemical bonding between porcelain and Ti and resulted in the increased bonding strength of Ti–porcelain.
On microstructure and mechanical properties of linear friction welded dissimilar Ti–6Al–4V and Ti–6·5Al–3·5Mo–1·5Zr–0·3Si joint
Authors: Ma T J , Zhong B , Li W-Y , Zhang Y , Yang S Q , Yang C L
Published: November 2011

Linear friction welding of dissimilar titanium alloys Ti–6Al–4V (TC4) and Ti–6·5Al–3·5Mo–1·5Zr–0·3Si (TC11) was achieved. Microstructural examination showed that the joint has a clearly identified weld zone and a thermomechanically affected zone on both TC4 and TC11 sides with a clearly identified weld line. In the weld zone of TC4, superfine α grains are dispersed in the β matrix, while in that of TC11, a few recrystallised α grains are observed along the β boundaries. In the thermomechanically affected zone of TC4, both deformed and recrystallised grains exist in the same area, while that of TC11 has a deformed α+ β structure. The tensile strength of the joint is comparable to that of the parent TC4 where fracture occurs. The joint microhardness is well related to its microstructure.
Effect of Ni–Al2O3 nanocomposite coating thickness on transient liquid phase bonding of Al 6061 MMC
Authors: Cooke K O , Khan T I , Oliver G D
Published: November 2011

Transient liquid phase diffusion bonding of Al 6061 containing 15 vol.-% alumina particles was carried out as a function of interlayer thickness. Electrodeposited Ni coatings containing 18 vol.-% nanosized alumina particles with thickness ranging from 1 to 13 μm was used as the interlayer. Joint formation was attributed to the solid state diffusion of Ni into the Al 6061 metal matrix base metal followed by eutectic formation, base metal dissolution and isothermal solidification at the joint interface. Examination of the joint region using scanning electron microscopy, wavelength dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction showed the formation of intermetallic phases such as AlFe3Si, Ni17Al3·9Si5·1O48 and Ni3Si within the joint zone. The results indicated that a maximum joint strength of 92% of the base metal shear strength can be obtained if an 11 μm thick Ni–Al2O3 nanocomposite coating is used as the interlayer.
Numerical study on mechanism of explosive welding
Authors: Li X J , Mo F , Wang X H , Wang B , Liu K X
Published: November 2011

Explosive welding technology has been widely used in industrial production. However, there is always a controversy on the mechanism of explosive bonding, whether explosive welding should belong to a kind of mature welding such as a fusion welding or a solid phase welding. Based on the observation and analysis of the metallographs at interfaces, various opinions are proposed by different authors. This paper investigated the various mechanisms of the wavy interface formation in explosive welding and tried to determine a more reasonable one by using smoothed particle hydrodynamics method. The numerical analysis results show that explosive welding is a unique and complex kind of welding. In general cases, high pressure and melted particles can be found in the collision area at the interface. A version, in which explosive welding is a combination of diffusion bonding, fusion bonding and pressure welding, is considered as a more reasonable one.
Characterisation of friction stir welded 7042-T6 extrusions through differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Hamilton C , Dymek S , Senkov O
Published: November 2011

Extruded and T6 tempered plates of 7042, an Sc modified Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloy, were joined by friction stir welding (FSW) at a constant weld velocity and various pin rotation speeds (PRSs). At a low PRS, hardness decreased from each edge of the weld to a local minimum at the weld centre, but at a high PRS, the hardness initially decreased from each edge of the weld, but then rose towards the weld centre. The transition in the hardness profile was related to different heating and cooling conditions during FSW. Differential scanning calorimetry of baseline and welded samples revealed that the volume fraction of strengthening particles within the weld regions strongly depended on the weld conditions. For FSW heating rates, secondary phase dissolution/precipitation temperatures are in proximity to the welding temperatures. The maximum welding temperature during FSW increased from ∼250 to 450°C as the PRS increased from 175 to 400 rev min−1.
Study on microwave synthesis and characterisation of bulk nickel aluminides
Authors: Karimbeigi A , Zakeri A , Aboutalebi M R , Sharifi P
Published: November 2011

Combustion synthesis of Ni–Al intermetallic compounds from 1∶1 molar mixtures of aluminium and nickel powders subjected to microwave (MV) heating has been investigated. Preliminary experiments confirmed that the usage of silicon carbide susceptor could successfully result in the preparation of bulk products in a fast and reproducible manner. The effect of the degree of compaction of the powder mixture and applied MV power on the ignition time, as well as the composition, microstructure and microhardness of the final products, was examined. Decreasing the compact porosity made the grain size of intermetallic products decrease and the microhardness increase. Variation of MV power at a constant degree of compaction did not affect the product grain size and microhardness. However, it had a distinct influence on the product composition; applying MV power of 1100 W on samples with moderate compactness resulted in NiAl, whereas that of 440 W produced Al3Ni2. Ni3Al precipitates were also identified when both the compaction pressure and the MV power were high. Moreover, a negative linear relationship was found between ignition time and MV power.
A Nonadiabatic Ab Initio Dynamics Study on Rhodopsin and Its Analog Isorhodopsin: Chemical Dynamics Reasons behind Selection of Rhodopsin by Life
Authors: Chung Wilfredo Credo , Nanbu Shinkoh , Ishida Toshimasa
Published: November 2011

The structural difference between rhodopsin and isorhodopsin is only in the cis-position of the chromophore, but the difference leads to a large discrepancy in photoisomerization period and quantum yield. The photoinduced cis–trans isomerization dynamics of the two chromophores are investigated using a Quantum Mechanics/Molecular Mechanics trajectory surface hopping scheme. Rhodopsin shows a straightforward and fast excited-state dynamics whereas the isorhodopsin dynamics in the excited state is complicated due to differences in retinal motions and space gaps formed by surrounding residues. Consequently, the isorhodopsin → bathorhodopsin reaction is slower and less efficient. Photoexcitation of rhodopsin gives bathorhodopsin only, whereas isorhodopsin yields an analog with 9,11-di-cis-retinal in addition to bathorhodopsin. These differences explain why life uses rhodopsin rather than isorhodopsin.
Photography and Memory: Rethinking May ’68
Authors: MEMOU ANTIGONI
Published: November 2011

This article takes as its starting point an exhibition of photographs of May ’68 by photojournalist Bruno Barbey at the Hayward Gallery in London in 2008, in order to consider the role that photography has played in shaping the memory and the forgetting of May ’68, 40 years
on. The article examines the problematic of the documentation and display of protest photographs, focusing on how compositional decisions by the photographer have come to facilitate his photographs’ subsequent institutional framing. On this basis I argue that the predominant representational
modes support hegemonic narratives of the events of May ’68 and highlight questions regarding the current difficulty of attending to the representation of collective political action.
Transmediation: Tracing the social aesthetic
Authors: DEWDNEY ANDREW
Published: November 2011

This article discusses how the use of mobile media in digital culture is ushering in a new set of conditions for the realization of the social reception of art. This is to say that mobile media practices present a renewed challenge to major national art museums in their organization
and practices of display and exhibition. The problematic explored here is that between the art museum’s continued attachment to aesthetic abstraction in the modernist trope and the clamouring and tumultuous world of image reproduction. The article seeks to define an intersection between
the academic discourses of media and technology on the one hand, and aesthetics and cultural policy on the other, through a focus on subjectivities and narration. It does this by way of a particular fieldwork example from the research project Tate Encounters: Britishness and Visual Culture
(2006–2009).
Relação entre índice de oxigenação e ventilação com o tempo em ventilação mecânica de pacientes em terapia intensiva pediátrica
Authors: Barros Daniela Ruy C , Almeida Celize Cruz B , A. Júnior Armando Augusto , Grande Rosângela Alves , Ribeiro Maria Ângela G. O , Ribeiro José Dirceu
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: Correlacionar o índice de oxigenação (IO) e o de ventilação (IV) com o tempo de ventilação mecânica invasiva (VMI) em pacientes pediátricos. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo, observacional, com pacientes de 28 dias de vida a 14 anos de idade, internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica de um hospital universitário. Correlacionaram-se valores de idade, peso, pH, pressão parcial de oxigênio (PaO2), pressão parcial de gás carbônico (PaCO2), IO e IV, nos primeiros cinco dias em VMI, com o tempo em que o paciente permaneceu em VMI. O tempo total de ventilação mecânica foi dividido em <7 dias e >7 dias. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 28 pacientes. Houve correlação negativa significante do tempo de VMI com o pH no quarto dia e com a PaO2 no quinto dia. Houve correlação positiva com o IO no terceiro e quarto dias e com o IV no terceiro, quarto e quinto dias. Houve diferença na idade e pH no quarto e quinto dias e IV do segundo ao quinto dias entre o grupo que permaneceu menos de sete dias e o que permaneceu sete dias ou mais em VMI. CONCLUSÕES: IO, IV, pH e PaO2, medidos precocemente, associaram-se com VMI prolongada, refletindo a gravidade do distúrbio ventilatório inicial.
A relação entre o crescimento mandibular e a maturação esquelética em jovens brasileiras melanodermas
Authors: Serafim Irene Moreira , Vilani Gisele Naback Lemes , Siqueira Vânia Célia Vieira de
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: avaliar o grau de correlação existente entre o crescimento mandibular e a maturação esquelética em jovens brasileiras melanodermas. MÉTODOS: examinou-se 140 telerradiografias, obtidas em norma lateral e 140 radiografias de mão e punho de jovens do gênero feminino, brasileiras, melanodermas, com 8 a 14 anos de idade, com oclusão normal ou má oclusão de Classe I, de Angle, não submetidas a tratamento ortodôntico prévio. Nas radiografias da mão e do punho, avaliou-se o desenvolvimento dos centros de ossificação da falange proximal do 3º dedo e da epífise distal do osso rádio, apoiando-se no método descrito por Eklöf e Ringertz; e nas telerradiografias, obtidas em norma lateral, analisou-se a pneumatização do seio frontal, de acordo com o método descrito por Rüf e Pancherz, e as medidas cefalométricas representativas do crescimento mandibular (Co-Go, Co-Gn, Go-Gn e Fg-Pg). Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise estatística, utilizando-se a Correlação de Pearson, para determinar o grau de relacionamento entre as variáveis. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÃO: ocorreu uma correlação altamente significativa entre os centros de ossificação observados na radiografia de mão e punho e as medidas cefalométricas representativas do crescimento mandibular (r = 0,777). Apesar de estatisticamente significativa, ocorreu uma baixa correlação entre a pneumatização do seio frontal e os eventos da maturidade esquelética (r = 0,306), assim como a relação entre a pneumatização do seio frontal e as medidas cefalométricas representativas do crescimento mandibular (r = 0,218).
Anticoagulation Patient Self‐Monitoring in the United States: Considerations for Clinical Practice Adoption
Authors: Nutescu Edith A. , Bathija Ms. Sacheeta , Sharp Lisa K. , Gerber Ben S. , Schumock Glen T. , Fitzgibbon Marian L.
Published: November 2011

Systematic management models such as anticoagulation clinics have emerged in order to optimize warfarin effectiveness and to minimize related complications. Most of these models are structured so that patients come to a clinic for in‐person testing and evaluation, thus making this model of care difficult to access and time consuming for many patients. The emergence of portable instruments for measuring anticoagulant effect in capillary whole blood made it possible for patients receiving warfarin to self‐monitor the effect of their anticoagulant therapy. Self‐monitoring empowers patients, offers the advantage of more frequent monitoring, and increases patient convenience by allowing testing at home and avoiding the need for frequent laboratory and clinic visits. Self‐monitoring can entail patient self‐testing (PST) and/or patient self‐management (PSM). Several studies have evaluated and shown the benefit of both PST and PSM models of care when compared with either routine medical care or anticoagulation clinic management of anticoagulation therapy. Self‐monitoring (PSM and/or PST) of anticoagulation results in lower thromboembolic events, lower mortality, and no increase in major bleeding when compared with standard care. Despite favorable results and enhanced patient convenience, the adoption of self‐monitoring into clinical practice in the United States has been limited, especially in higher risk, disadvantaged populations. Although the emergence of a multitude of novel oral anticoagulants will permit clinicians to better individualize anticoagulant therapy options by choosing the optimum regimen based on individual patient characteristics, it is also expected that traditional agents will continue to play a role in a significant subset of patients. For those patients treated with traditional anticoagulants such as warfarin, future models of care will entail patient‐centered management such as PST and PSM. The incorporation of technology (i.e., Web‐based expert systems) is expected to further improve the outcomes realized by PST and PSM. Further studies are needed to explore factors that influence the adoption of self‐monitoring in the United States and to evaluate the feasibility and implementation in real‐life clinical settings.
Managing Special Populations Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Marquess Jonathan G.
Published: November 2011

Glycemic goals and the therapies used to achieve them must be individualized for each patient based on several factors, one of the more important being coexisting conditions such as renal disease, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease. The potential to lower hemoglobin A1c and the possible long‐term benefits of diabetes treatments must be balanced with safety issues, adverse effects, tolerability, ease of use, long‐term adherence, and expense. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Diabetes Association have addressed these concerns by developing treatment guidelines to maximize efficacy and safety in the majority of patients with type 2 diabetes. Other organizations, including the American Medical Directors Association and the American Geriatric Society, have also published guidelines for diabetes management for patients in long‐term care facilities. This review discusses the safety profiles of antidiabetic drugs, and the special treatment needs with respect to these drugs for patients with diabetes and comorbidities such as renal disease, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.
Use of Intravenous Sedation in Periodontal Practice: A National Survey
Authors: Tingey Benjamin T. , Clark Steven H. , Humbert Lewis A. , Tingey John D. , Kummet Colleen M.
Published: November 2011

Background: In the early 1990s, much of the periodontal profession perceived an upcoming shift in services performed by periodontists as many patients began to expect sedation for periodontal surgery. As a result, in 1993 the American Academy of Periodontology began encouraging postgraduate periodontal programs to train residents in the use of conscious sedation. The purpose of this study is to investigate trends in the training of intravenous (IV) sedation in residency and its use in periodontal practice.

Methods: An 18‐question survey was mailed to a sample of 1596 active periodontists throughout the United States and Canada. Thirty‐seven percent (596) of the surveys were returned. Twenty‐two retired periodontists responded and were excluded from the analysis. The data from the remaining 574 surveys were analyzed with a statistical software package.

Results: Approximately half (49.8%) of the survey respondents offer IV sedation in their practices. Among respondents who completed residency prior to 1996, 42.6% offer IV sedation compared with 64.2% of respondents who completed residency in 1996 or later. The number of IV sedations performed in residency was moderately correlated with the number of IV sedations personally performed in periodontal practice (Spearman r = 0.5169, P <0.0001). The largest percentage of periodontists using IV sedation (74.0%) was reported from American Academy of Periodontology District 5 (south central United States), whereas District 7 (New Jersey and New York) reported the lowest usage (15.6%).

Conclusions: Approximately half of all periodontists provide IV sedation, with more recent periodontal graduates more likely to personally offer and administer IV sedation services for their patients. Regional differences exist in the use and training of IV sedation.
Antimicrobial activity of Rhodobryum ontariense
Authors: Pejin Boris , Sabovljevic Aneta , Sokovic Marina , Glamoclija Jasmina , Ciric Ana , Vujicic Milorad , Sabovljevic Marko
Published: November 2011

The antimicrobial activity of dimethyl sulfoxide extract of moss Rhodobryum
ontariense (Kindb.) Kindb. was evaluated by microdilution method against
eight bacterial (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella
typhimurium, Enterobacter cloacae, Listeria monocytogens, Bacillus cereus,
Micrococcus flavus and Staphylococcus aureus) and five fungal species
(Aspergillus versicolor, Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium funiculosum,
Penicillium ochrochloron and Trichoderma viride). The extract was proven to
be active against all the bacteria and funghi tested but to varying degrees.
It showed better inhibitory activity compared to the known antifungal drug
against T. viride (MIC 100 and 200 ?g/ml, respectively). This finding implies
that R. ontariense could be considered as a promising material for natural
antifungal products.
Freezing and melting of a bath material onto a cylindrical solid additive in an agitated bath
Authors: Singh U.C. , Prasad A. , Kumar Arbind
Published: November 2011

In melting and assimilation of a cylindrical shaped additive in an agitated
hot melt bath during the process of preparation of cast iron and steel of
different grades, an unavoidable step of transient conjugated
conduction-controlled axisymmetric freezing and melting of the bath material
onto the additive immediately after its dunking in bath occurs. Decreasing
the time of completion of this step is of great significance for production
cost reduction and increasing the productivity of such preparations. Its
suitable mathematical model of lump-integral type is developed. Its
nondimensional format indicates the dependence of this step upon independent
nondimensional parameters- the bath temperature, ?b the modified Biot number,
Bim denoting the bath agitation, the property-ratio, B and the heat
capacity-ratio, Cr of the melt bath-additive system, the Stefan number, St
pertaining to the phase-change of the bath material. The model provides the
closed-form expressions for both the growth of the frozen layer thickness, ?
onto the additive and the heat penetration depth, ? in the additive. Both are
functions of these parameters, but when they are transformed to the growth of
the frozen layer thickness with respect to the heat capacity ratio per unit
Stefan number; and the time per unit property-ratio, B, their expressions
become only a function of single parameter, the conduction factor, Cof
consisting of the parameters, B, Bim and ?b. The closed-form expression for
the growth of the maximum thickness of the frozen layer, its time of growth,
the time of the freezing and melting; the heat penetration depth are also
derived. When the heat penetration depth approaches the central axis of the
cylindrical additive in case of the complete melting of the frozen layer
developed Cof?11/72. It is found that the decreasing Cof reduces both the
time of this unavoidable step and the growth of the maximum frozen layer
thickness and at Cof=0, the frozen layer does not form leading to zero time
for this step. If the bath is kept at the freezing temperature of the bath
material, only freezing occurs. To validate the model, it is cast to resemble
the freezing and melting of the bath material onto the plate shaped additive.
The results are exactly the same as those of the plate.
Viscosity model for fully liquid silicate melt
Authors: Zhang Guo-Hua , Chou Kuo-Chih
Published: November 2011

A model for estimating the viscosity of silicate melt as derived in our
previous paper is extended to the system containing MgO, CaO, SrO, BaO, Li2O,
Na2O, K2O, which can express the nonlinear variation of activation energy of
viscosity with the composition. It is found that the optimized parameters of
model which characterize the deforming ability of bonds around non-bridging
oxygen decrease with increasing the bond strength of M-O bond expressed by
I=2Q/RMz+ + rO2-)2 (where Q is the valence of cation M; r is the radius). It is
pointed out that viscosity is not only determined by the bond strength, but
also by the radius of cation which is defined as the size effect. The radius
of cation plays paradox roles in the two factors: smaller radius leads to a
stronger bond, thus a higher viscosity; while cations with smaller radius are
easier to diffuse when neglecting the interaction force, thus a lower
viscosity will be.
The territorial approach to EU cohesion policy: Current issues and evidence from Greece
Authors: Thoidou Elisavet
Published: November 2011

The importance attributed to the territorial dimension of the European Union
cohesion policy steadily influences its successive reforms and adaptations,
while in recent years there has been an evolution in the way this particular
dimension of cohesion policy is perceived. Important evidence for this is the
way in which the Community Strategic Guidelines on cohesion 2007-13 take
account of the territorial dimension of cohesion policy. This paper discusses
the territorial approach to cohesion policy in relation to both policy and
practice. Specifically, it examines the territorial dimension of regional
development planning in Greece as it has emerged in the relevant official
documents, namely the successive three Community Support Frameworks since
1989 and the National Strategic Reference Framework for the current 2007-13
period. The territorial dimension of the organization of the planning system
is also considered in an effort to understand limitations and prospects, in
light of the importance of the territorial approach to cohesion policy
post-2013.
Planning and designing urban places in response to climate and local culture: A case study of Mussafah District in Abu Dhabi
Authors: Bajic-Brkovic Milica , Milakovic Mira
Published: November 2011

This paper deals with how climate and local culture specifics contribute to
urban diversity, and how they affect the way urban spaces are being
conceived, planned and designed. The authors argue that regardless of the
globally accepted principles of sustainability which emphasize smart
responses, diversity and culture as the prime drives in urban development of,
cities around the world are continually experiencing the all-alike solutions,
which often compromise their identity and character. Having taken the genuine
stands of the philosophy as a starting point for examining the subject, the
authors explore and present how the climate specifics, along with the
uniqueness of local culture, lead toward the solutions which make a
difference to their cities. The discussion is illustrated by the case study
the authors were engaged in, the Mussafah District project in Abu Dhabi, a
redevelopment proposal recently initiated and developed by International
Society of Urban and Regional Planners -ISOCARP and Urban Planning Council of
Abu Dhabi.
Compatibility, adaptability and use of different types of ground floor houses in 19th century town planning: Case study Subotica
Authors: Aladzic Viktorija
Published: November 2011

A lack of knowledge of the history of architecture and town planning in the
19th century resulted in underrated regard towards this historic period and
consequently in a devastation of urban and architectural heritage of the 19th
century. This research was intended to clarify some segments of the history
of architecture and town planning in the 19th century based on the example of
Subotica. Research has shown that the basic types of ground floor houses
built during the 19th century in Subotica were mutually compatible and that
by a simple addition of rooms on the simple base house, more complex base
houses could be built. In the same way rural houses could also be transformed
into urban ones. This pattern allowed for utmost rationality of the
construction of individual houses as well as of the whole town. The town, due
to the application of compatible house plans, reflected a semblance of order
which improved year on year, because every house at any given moment
represented a finished structure. Simple attachment of building parts also
allowed the houses that were located in the middle of the lot to be elongated
to the street regulation line. Compatible house plans, as an auxiliary means,
facilitated the application of building rules, the realization of regulation
plans and provided continuous development of the town of Subotica in the
period of over 150 years.
Influence of planning and civil initiative, as a form of public intervention, on gentrification
Authors: Lukic Ivana
Published: November 2011

The main purpose of this paper is to establish the connection between
gentrification and planning, as a form of state and civil intervention, along
with citing instances of local community reactions to negative effects of
gentrification. The work examines how these two forms of public intervention,
by means of implementing measures/actions, influence positive and negative
effects of gentrification and contribute to maintaining balance between them.
Furthermore, it explains how they act in service of public interest. The main
criterion for the selection of research examples has been the form of
intervention implemented (measures/actions, that is, their diversity). Most
examples have been drawn from the USA where, on account of its liberal
economic system, the power of planning is weaker, negative effects of
gentrification are more dominant and gentrification itself is considered a
negative phenomenon. The main objective of the analysis is to determine how
to minimize the negative effects. A small number of examples presented have
been taken from developed European countries, since those states exert
stronger influence on planning and the state/community is more responsible
for housing problems and existence of different groups of individuals in the
community. Those instances illustrate the maximization of positive effects.
In addition, some examples have been drawn from transitional, post-socialist
Balkan countries where anti-planning attitude is dominant and negative
effects of gentrification are more present. Given their effects on
gentrification, the most successful measures/actions, applied in the form of
public intervention, ordered by category, are as follows: affordable housing,
jobs, local regulations, partnership and direct actions.
Design technique for all-dielectric non-polarizing beam splitter plate
Authors: Rizea A.
Published: November 2011

There are many situations when, for the proper working, an opto-electronic device requiring optical components does not change the polarization state of light after a reflection, splitting or filtering. In this paper, a design for a non-polarizing beam splitter plate is proposed. Based on certain optical properties of homogeneous dielectric materials we will establish a reliable thin film package formula, excellent for the start of optimization to obtain a 20-nm bandwidth non-polarizing beam splitter.
Records management and risk management at Kenya Commercial Bank Limited, Nairobi
Authors: Ambira Cleophas , Kemoni Henry
Published: November 2011

Background: This paper reported empirical research findings of an MPhil in Information Sciences (Records and Archives Management) study conducted at Moi University in Eldoret, Kenya between September 2007 and July 2009.Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate records management and risk management at Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) Ltd, in the Nairobi area and propose recommendations to enhance the functions of records and risk management at KCB. The specific objectives of the study were to, (1) establish the nature and type of risks to which KCB is exposed, (2) conduct business process analysis and identify the records generated by KCB, (3) establish the extent to which records management is emphasised within KCB as a tool to managing risk, (4) identify which vital records of KCB need protection because of their nature and value to the bank and (5) make recommendations to enhance current records management practices to support the function of risk management in KCB.Method: The study was qualitative. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews. The theoretical framework of the study involved triangulation of the records continuum model by Frank Upward (1980) and the integrated risk management model by the Government of Canada (2000).Results: The key findings of the study were, (1) KCB is exposed to a wide range of risks by virtue of its business, (2) KCB generates a lot of records in the course of its business activities and (3) there are inadequate records management practices and systems, the lack of which undermines the risk management function.Conclusion: The findings of this study have revealed the need to strengthen records management as a critical success factor in risk mitigation within KCB and, by extension, the Kenyan banking industry. A records management model was proposed to guide the management of records within an enterprise-wide risk management framework in the bank.
Growth Differentiation Factor 5 (GDF-5) Induces Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) Expression in Periodontal Ligament Cells and Modulates MMP-2 and MMP-13 Activity in Osteoblasts
Authors: Hatakeyama Yuji , Hatakeyama Junko , Maruya Yuriko , Oka Kyoko , Tsuruga Eichi , Inai Tetsuichiro , Sawa Yoshihiko
Published: November 2011

Growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF-5), a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily expressed in periodontal tissues, promotes extracellular matrix (ECM) in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are proteolytic enzymes that degrade ECM and are expressed in PDL cells. To date, little is known about the regulation of MMP synthesis and secretion in PDL cells. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of GDF-5 on MMP production and activity in PDL cells. GDF-5 increased both collagen type I alpha 2 (Col Iα2) and MMP-2 gene expression in cells derived from mouse PDL tissues after 3 days of culture. Because PDL cells represent a heterogeneous population, we examined gelatinolytic activity and gene expression profiles in an osteoblast cell line. After 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours of culture, GDF-5 increased both Col Iα2 and MMP gene expression in osteoblasts. GDF-5 also promoted MMP-2 activity as revealed by gelatin zymography after 7 days of culture. In the presence of the p38 MAP kinase inhibitor SB202190, on the other hand, MMP-2 activity was blocked. Taken together, these results indicate that GDF-5 may increase simultaneously the gene expression of type I collagen and MMP-2 in the osteoblast-like cells among the PDL cells and p38 MAP kinase pathway in osteoblast could involve in the regulation of MMP-2 enzyme activity induced by GDF-5.
Pulsed and Tissue Doppler Echocardiographic Changes in Hypertensive Crisis with and without End Organ Damage
Authors: Garadah Taysir , Kassab Salah , Gabani Saleh , Abu-Taleb Ahmed , Abdelatif Ahmed , Asef Aysha , Shoroqi Issa , Jamsheer Anwer
Published: November 2011

Background

Hypertensive crisis (HC) is a common medical emergency associated with acute rise in arterial blood pressure that leads to end-organ damage (EOD). Therefore, it is imperative to find markers that may help in the prediction of EOD in acute hypertensive crisis.

Aim

To assess the clinical presentations on admission; echocardiographic changes of pulsed and tissue Doppler changes in EOD patients compared with no EOD; and the risk of developing end organ damage for clinical and biochemical variables in hypertension crisis.

Material and Methods

The data of 241 patients with hypertensive crisis with systolic blood pressure (SBP) of >180 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) >120 mmHg were extracted from patients files. Patients divided into hypertensive emergency (HE) with EOD, n = 62 and hypertensive urgency (HU) without EOD, n = 179. LV hypertrophy on ECG, echo parameters for wall thickness, left Ventricular mass index (LVMI), Body mass index (BMI), pulse Doppler ratio of early filling velocity E wave to late A wave (E/A) and ratio of E wave velocity to tissue Doppler Em to E wave (E/Em) were evaluated. Serum creatinine, hemoglobin, age, gender, body mass Index (BMI), history of diabetes mellitus, smoking, hypertension, stroke and hyperlipidemia were recorded. Multiple logistic regression analysis was applied for risk prediction of end organ damage of clinical variables.

Results

Patients with HE compared with HU were significantly older, with a significantly higher SBP on admission, high BMI and LVMI. Further there were significantly higher E/A ratio on Doppler echo and higher E/Em ratio on tissue Doppler echocardiogram. Multiple regression analysis with adjustment for age and sex shows positive predictive value with odds ratio of SBP on admission >220 mmHg of 1.98, serum creatinine > 120 µg/L of 1.43, older age > 60 year of 1.304, obesity (BMI ≥ 30) of 1.9, male gender of 2.26 and left ventricle hypertrophy on ECG of 1.92. The hemoglobin level, history of smoking, hyperlipidemia and DM were with no significant predictive value. The pulsed Doppler E/A ratio was ≥1.6, E/Em > 15, LVMI > 125 gm/m2 in patients with EOD compared with those without.

Conclusion

In patients presented with hypertensive crisis, the echo indices of E/A ratio and E/Em ratio of tissue Doppler are significantly higher in patients with hypertensive emergency compared to hypertensive urgency. The left ventricle hypertrophy on ECG, high LV mass index of >125 gm/m2, BMI > 30, old age > 60 year, male gender and history of hypertension and stroke were positive predictors of poor outcome and end organ damage.
Weight Gain as a Barrier to Smoking Cessation among Military Personnel
Authors: Russ Christine R. , Fonseca Vincent P. , Peterson Alan L. , Blackman Lisa R. , Robbins Anthony S.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To assess the relationships between active-duty military status, military weight standards, concern about weight gain, and anticipated relapse after smoking cessation.

Design.

Cross-sectional study.

Setting.

Hospital-based tobacco cessation program.

Subjects.

Two hundred fifty-two enrollees, of 253 eligible, to a tobacco cessation program in 1999 (135 men, 117 women; 43% on active duty in the military).

Measures.

Independent variables included gender, body mass index (weight/height2), and military status. Dependent variables included concern about weight gain with smoking cessation and anticipated relapse.

Results.

In multivariate regression analyses that controlled for gender and body mass index, active-duty military status was associated with an elevated level of concern about weight gain (1.9-point increase on a 10-point scale; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0- to 2.8-point increase), as well as higher anticipated relapse (odds ratio [OR] = 3.6; 95% CI, 1.3 to 9.8). Among subjects who were close to or over the U.S. Air Force maximum allowable weight for height, the analogous OR for active-duty military status was 6.9 ( p = .02).

Conclusions.

Occupational weight standards or expectations may pose additional barriers for individuals contemplating or attempting smoking cessation, as they do among active-duty military personnel. These barriers are likely to hinder efforts to decrease smoking prevalence in certain groups.
The Importance of Decisional Balance and Self-Efficacy in Relation to Stages of Change for Fruit and Vegetable Intakes by Young Adults
Authors: Ma Jun , Betts Nancy M. , Horacek Tanya , Georgiou Constance , White Adrienne , Nitzke Susan
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To examine the stages of change, decisional balance, and self-efficacy constructs in relation to fruit and vegetable intakes by young adults 18–24 years old.

Design.

A cross-sectional project was conducted by 10 states in January–July 2000 to examine decisional balance and self-efficacy in relation to stage of change for increasing fruit and vegetable intake among young adults.

Subjects.

In all, 1545 usable surveys were returned (response rate = 55%). More non-respondents were men and precontemplators than respondents. Sixty-one percent of respondents were women, 90.3% were white, and 49.7% were current students.

Setting.

Alabama, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, Rhode Island, Oregon, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Measures.

A telephone screening interview and a self-administered mail survey.

Analysis.

Analysis of variance, principal components analysis, cluster analysis, and χ2 test.

Results.

From precontemplation to maintenance, a significant linear trend was found toward higher food intake and self-efficacy for fruits and vegetables. The patterns of shifts in the pros and cons across the stages resembled those of other health behaviors. The decisional balance items were further classified into five component factors that varied significantly in importance across the stages. Four subject clusters were derived (unconcerned, reluctant, exploring, and action-oriented); distribution of the clusters agreed with that of the five stages.

Conclusions.

This study supports applicability of the Transtheoretical Model for assessing fruit and vegetable consumption by young adults. Derivation of the four clusters implies the importance of including decisional balance and self-efficacy as outcome measures besides dietary behavior for evaluating the effectiveness of nutrition interventions.
Adolescent Tobacco Use: The Protective Effects of Developmental Assets
Authors: Atkins Leslie A. , Oman Roy F. , Vesely Sara K. , Aspy Cheryl B. , McLeroy Kenneth
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To examine the effects of 10 youth developmental assets on adolescent tobacco use.

Design.

Survey of a randomly selected sample using in-home interviewing methodology.

Setting.

Inner-city areas of two midsized Midwestern cities.

Subjects.

The researchers studied 1,350 teen-parent pairs.

Measures.

Demographic information, adolescent self-reported tobacco use, eight developmental asset Likert scales, and two one-item developmental asset measures.

Results.

The response rate was 51%. Logistic regression results indicate that youth who possess nine of 10 developmental assets examined are significantly less likely to report tobacco use than youth with low levels of assets. Adjusting for youth age, race, gender, parental income and education, and family structure, significant odds ratios include the following: nonparental adult role model, 2.09 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.45, 3.02); peer role models, 2.48 (95% CI = 1.87, 3.29); family communication, 1.73 (95% CI = 1.29, 2.31); use of time (organized groups), 1.77 (95% CI = 1.28, 2.44); use of time (religion), 2.49 (95% CI = 1.86, 3.33); good health practices (exercise/nutrition), 1.61 (95% CI = 1.21, 2.14); community involvement, 1.66 (95% CI = 1.07, 2.58); future aspirations, 2.06 (95% CI = 1.42, 2.99); and responsible choices, 2.21 (95% CI = 1.55, 3.15).

Conclusions.

The findings of this study support the view that certain developmental assets may serve to protect youth from risk-taking behaviors, particularly tobacco use. Limitations include cross-sectional data and three scales with alphas below .7.