bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Operational Behaviour of Wide V-Belts in CVT Applications
Authors: Schaefer Frank H.
Published: September 2013

This paper examines wide V-belt operational behaviour operated continuously variable transmission (CVT). Important for the prediction of an optimum driving performance it is necessary to understand the motion principle of the belt in the pulley during operation. First, the design of a test rig is described, where both the driving and driven pulleys are programmable controlled, giving details of the capabilities. Second, to describe the efficiency of the drive, losses due to slip and the mechanical properties of belt material are determined. To conduct the mechanical properties of the steel-reinforced belt an experimental method is introduced. Finally, emphasis is placed on determination of circumferential motion of the belt due to various drive operating parameters. Through the study, it is found that mechanical wear at both sides of the V-belt caused by the belt’s motion is the most serious problem that affects the CVT performance.
The Vibration Modeling and Analysis of Stewart Platform-Based Machine Tool
Authors: Yang Xiao Jun , Sun Guo Li , Li Bing
Published: September 2013

In this paper, the vibration modeling and analysis of Stewart platform-based machine tool is presented. The vibration modeling includes the derivation of the vibration equation and the detailed processes to deal with that. Each of the kinematic chains is considered as a flexible chain and simplified into a spring-damper submodel. Vibration modeling of the machine tool is established by Newton-Euler approach. Then, the natural frequencies of the moving platform are obtained based on the vibration equation by the aid of MATLAB. The vibration characteristics of the machine tool are analyzed and discussed by means of the numerical examples considering the different poses of the moving platform. The conclusion can be drawn that the natural frequencies of the platform are influenced by the poses of the platform.
Diagnosis of Low-Speed Helical Gears Based on Hilbert Demodulation and Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Song Bao Yu , Xie Zhi Jie , Zhang Feng , Yang Jin Ping
Published: September 2013

As the vibration signal of helical gears is nonlinear and nonstationary, it is very difficult to diagnose their faults based on the vibration signal analysis and processing, particularly when the gears rotate at low speed. In this paper, an applicable fault diagnosis approach is proposed based on Hilbert demodulation and EMD (empirical mode decomposition). Firstly, the modulated signals are extracted through Hilbert envelope demodulationand low pass filter. Furthermore, EMD is used to decompose the multi-component demodulated signal into a series of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) whose instantaneous frequencies have a physically meaningful characterization of the original signal. Finally, the fault features of low-speed helical gear are obtained by the spectrum analysis to each IMF. The experiments of tooth broken fault diagnosis show that this method is more effective than traditional Hilbert demodulation analysis.
Prophase Failure Prediction of the Mechanical Transmission Systems Based on the Biological Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Chen Xiao Hui , Xiao Lei , Liu Zhen Xiang , Liu Chuang
Published: September 2013

There are several types of the mechanical transmission failure, such as gear tooth broken, fatigue, pitting etc. The deterioration pattern of each failure varies according to the different environment. Furthermore, setting up the fault prediction model is quite difficult, especially at the early stage of the fault. In order to predict the prophase failure of the mechanical transmission systems depends on the condition monitoring signal, this paper researched on the biological evolutionary algorithm combined with other artificial intelligence algorithm. As the case study, the typical failure of the gearbox test-bed, for example gear tooth broken or fatigue at the test-bed was monitored by several sensors. An improved support vector machine (SVM) optimized by genetic algorithm (GA) was chosen to predict the prophase failure of the gear, due to its self-adaption and self-learning ability. The prediction results showed that it simulated the failure pattern well on the condition of a few sample data.
A Time-Efficiency Multi-Channel MAC Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Han Shu , Liu Xiao Ming , Yao Yao , Zhou Yang Jun
Published: September 2013

In the research for the signal acquisition of the mechanical equipment, signals need to be obtained from the inside of the relatively closed box. Timely and reliably transmission for signals on key points is necessary, which can guarantee the validity of condition monitoring and fault diagnosis. In this paper, we present a novel packet delivery mechanism called time-efficiency multi-channel MAC protocol for wireless sensor networks, which can efficiently decrease the delay time of data transmission between the sink node and terminal nodes in the star topology structure for the wireless sensor networks. All the nodes used in this protocol have a multi-channel wireless transceiver, which can switch between channels easily. Each terminal node gets the signal channel by competition with other nodes. Sink node is the master device, whose functions include receiving all the data packets from other nodes, regulating the listening priority of each channel and announcing synchronization information. Furthermore, in order to reduce the probability of channel competition with other node, a self-adapting choice mechanism is employed, which is based on received signal strength indicator (RSSI) and communication success rate. In this way, the sink node can choose the appropriate signal channel and terminal node to communicate. Finally, the protocol and its performance are analyzed, and the feasibility is evaluated.
Coupling Effect between Gear Backlash of Friction Plate and Axial Separation Gap in Multi-Friction Pairs
Authors: Li Shen Long , Pan Jiang Li , Zhao Xin Yuan
Published: September 2013

Multi-plate friction pairs are important components in the gearbox of tracked vehicle. When the multi-friction pairs are in separation state, the uniform separation gaps of friction pairs are key factors affecting their operating performance. Most current research focuses on investigation of the failure modes of friction plate, such as, wear. However, the literatures on the vibration excitations from the inner and outer hub which affect the uniform separation gaps of the friction pairs are rare. This paper developed a rigid-flexible coupling dynamic model with different gear backlashes. The vibration characteristics of manipulate components and the separation gap of the friction pairs are studied. The results show that the model can be utilized to investigate the effects of the gear backlashes for manipulation components on the separation gaps of multi-friction pairs and it can be used to study the failure modes of friction plate in brakes. The developed model is expected to be the foundation for further optimization of the gear backlash. Keywords: Multi Friction Pairs; Separation gap; Gear Backlash; Rigid-flexible Coupling Dynamics Model
Case Studies of Taiwan's Fuel Cell System Demonstration Program
Authors: Liu Chia Mei , Lin Yi Li , Yang Chang Chung , Huang Sheng Yuan , Wen Lih Chyi
Published: September 2013

In 2009, Bureau of Energy, Ministry of Economic Affairs, initiated a three year program, Fuel Cell Demonstration and Certification Subsidy Program. During the following years, Taiwans government allocated 300 million NTD (approximately 10 million USD) towards the subsidy program to support 38 demonstration projects. Three cases were selected amongst these projects and discussed in this article. The first project illustrated a 5kW fuel cell system providing stable backup power for telecom base station. The second project, demoed at Taipei International Flora Exposition, adopted a 30kW fuel cell stationary system to promote the green energy concept. The last case exhibited a Hydrogen Scenery House. This unique building integrated several renewable energies as well as a fuel cell system to provide auxiliary power for the building.The case studies' achievements are then analyzed, and the recommendation for future development is proposed.
Dynamic Analysis of T-Shaped Plate with General Boundary Conditions
Authors: Shi Dong Yan , Wang Qing Shan , Shi Xian Jie
Published: September 2013

In this investigation, an analytical method is proposed for the dynamic analysis of T-shaped plates with general boundary conditions. Four types of springs are uniformly distributed along each edge, which are used to simulate the transverse shearing forces, bending moments, in-plane longitudinal forces and in-plane shearing forces, respectively. Arbitrary boundary conditions can be readily realized by setting the stiffness of the four types restraining springs. The interactions between the plates have been taken into account at the junction with four types of coupling springs. The in-plane and out-of-plane displacements are invariantly expressed, regardless of boundary conditions, as a new form of double Fourier series with a drastically improved convergence as compared with the traditional Fourier series. The expansion coefficients are considered as the generalized coordinates, and determined using the Rayleigh-Ritz technique. Numerical examples are presented to validate the accuracy and reliability of the proposed method. A good agreement is observed between the current results and FEA results. The present method can be directly extended to more complicated structures with any number of plates.
Epistemic and Methodological Challenges of Dynamic Environmental Assessment: A Case-Study with Energy Production from Solar Cells
Authors: Laratte Bertrand , Guillaume Bertrand
Published: September 2013

During the last decades, life cycle assessment (LCA) has been one of the most common approaches for environmental impact assessment. This methodology has become more and more complex in its representation of the real environmental impacts of products. However, it does not take into account temporal and cumulative aspects, and therefore appear not so suitable to observe potential rebound effect of new technologies. In this paper, we explore the limits of static LCA and understand how some dynamic LCA can be interpreted, by comparing the results of two environmental impacts assessments of energy production from solar cells. The global warming potential (GWP) of different technologies was accounted from the last 50 years. We show with this example how any temporal evolution of technology matters for environmental assessment (e.g. the global warming potential). Turning then to the future, we offer scenarios to see the evolution of greenhouse effect in long term regarding different mixes of technologies. This example opens new horizons for future research in the field of temporal LCA and its applications.
Multi-Object Multi-Discipline Probabilistic Design of High-Pressure Turbine Blade-Tip Radial Running Clearance
Authors: Tang Wen Zhong , Fei Cheng Wei , Bai Guang Chen
Published: September 2013

For the probabilistic design of high-pressure turbine (HPT) blade-tip radial running clearance (BTRRC), a distributed collaborative response surface method (DCRSM) was proposed, and the mathematical model of DCRSM was established. From the BTRRC probabilistic design based on DCRSM, the static clearance δ=1.865 mm is demonstrated to be optimal for the BTRRC design considering aeroengine reliability and efficiency. Meanwhile, DCRSM is proved to be of high accuracy and efficiency in the BTRRC probabilistic design. The present study offers an effective way for HPT BTRRC dynamic probabilistic design and provides also a promising method for the further probabilistic optimal design of complex mechanical system.
Effective Management of Engineering Projectsusing 4Es Model
Authors: Agyekum-Mensah George , Knight Andrew , Pasquire Christine , Coffey Christopher
Published: September 2013

Time, Cost and Quality (TCQ) has become the de facto of managing projects, including engineering projects and it is also used as performance assessment model. However, many researchers have stressed the limitations of using this model (TCQ). In this response, this study develops a conceptual model ‘4Es’ (Effective, Economic, Efficient, Ethics) for effective managing engineering projects and for performance assessment. A qualitative approach was adopted for this research. Multiple case studies were utilised and the method used was interviews, documentary evidence and observations. This was followed with an analysis, intellectual discussion and the development of the 4Es model as the essential tool for managing projects and for performance assessment. It is established that the aim of every client is to have ‘value for money’ (VfM). However, achieving VfM is not necessarily managing TCQ separately. It is concluded that, the 4Es model takes into consideration TCQ, Environmental impact and Resources by balancing these factors to generate optimal value. In addition, it is a performance assessment model.
Pricing and Emission Reduction Strategy of Manufacturer with Carbon Emission Constraints in Low Carbon Supply Chain
Authors: Liang Xi , Xiong Yu , Hou Yun Zhang , Xia Sen Mao
Published: September 2013

In a supply chain which contains one manufacturer and one retailer, the paper introduces the amount of emissions per unit of output produced, and analyses the effects of customer and regulatory environmental pressures on the optimal price and carbon emission. The results show that the optimal wholesale price and retail price are positively related to regulatory environmental pressure and negatively related to customer environmental pressure, and the manufacturer's profit-maximizing level of emissions is determined by the customer environmental sensitivity and initial level of emissions, and the environmental performance of the manufacturer and the retailer's profit are affected by customer and regulatory environmental pressures and market size and costs for environmental investments.
When Does the Trust Prohibit the Technology Transfer between Two Manufacturing Firms? A Perspective of Transaction Cost Economics
Authors: Xia Sen Mao , Long Yong , Xiong Yu
Published: September 2013

Few paper notices the black side of trust on technology transfer. This paper utilizes the “Transaction Cost Economics” (TCE) to find out that trust, in some cases, can deter technology transfer between two manufacturing firms. Specifically, trust can influence the transaction cost through three dimensions, including “asset specificity”, “transaction frequency” and “uncertainty”, and then the relationship between trust and technology transfer can be detected with the help of transaction cost as a media. Finally, this paper finds out that before an optimal threshold point, the trust can decrease the transaction cost and, simultaneously, can improve the technology transfer. But after that, trust may increase the transaction cost, then imposing restrictions on the technology transfer.
A Review of Problems Faced by ERP Consultancy and Client Organizations in China
Authors: Hou Jia Chen
Published: September 2013

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) is a system designed to bring processes and resource together by sharing data and information across functional areas. The use of ERP consultancy is becoming essential to the enterprises in China. However, many issues have risen in the process of ERP implementation. This paper aims to investigate the major obstacles in the way of ERP implementation among ERP consultancy and client organisations. It has found that the quality of Chinese consultancy is far from that expected as leading ERP products were not widely mastered by consulting firms. Efficient information system is essential for companies to stay in the competition. However, transparent information flow across functional areas is hard to achieve in China. A good understanding of ERP system and business processes can help Chinese enterprises to ease unrealistic expectations from ERP implementation.
Remanufacturer-Manufacturer Collaborative Model in the same Channel under Three Channel Power Structures
Authors: Wang Kai , Xiong Yu
Published: September 2013

The model where the remanufacturer and the manufacturer collaborate with each other in the same channel has been studied before, while this paper firstly investigates it under three channel power structures. This paper investigates a single-period deterministic model which keeps the analysis simple so as to obtain sharper insights. The results characterize the optimal remanufacturing and pricing strategies for the remanufacturer and the manufacturer in the collaborative model under the three channel structures, and find that in each case, because the total market profit in the collaborative model is higher than the competitive model, the collaborative model will be built as soon as the remanufacturer’s profit is ensured. Besides, this paper compares the pricing strategies of the collaborative model between the channel structures.
Combined Design of a Compact Production System and Services for Sustainability
Authors: Mishima Nozomu
Published: September 2013

The authors former research group developed a desktop-size and distributed production system named Micorfactory. Microfactory consisted of 5 compact machines and was capable to fabricate small parts with sufficient accuracies. Since its introduction 13 years ago, various machines to fulfill the different tasks covered by the Microfactory have been developed. However, promotion of systematic innovation of the services utilizing micorfactory concept has been insufficient. The paper first identifies potential services that can be combined with the Micorfactory, considering potential advantages of the microfactory-like compact production system. Although these business models with conventional manufacturing systems are not unique, the service can be distinguished in case of microfactories regarding its on-demand and on-site characteristics. It also enhances the sustainability of the manufacturing industries. To clarify the advantage of these combinations of compact systems with services, the paper shows an example. Finally, the paper concludes that services combined with micorfactories are the promising areas to enhance sustainability of production.
Molecular Insights on Post-chemotherapy Retinoblastoma by Microarray Gene Expression Analysis
Authors: Nalini Venkatesan , Segu Ramya , Deepa Perinkulam Ravi , Khetan Vikas , Vasudevan Madavan , Krishnakumar Subramanian
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Management of Retinoblastoma (RB), a pediatric ocular cancer is limited by drug-resistance and drug-dosage related side effects during chemotherapy. Molecular de-regulation in post-chemotherapy RB tumors was investigated.

Materials and Methods

cDNA microarray analysis of two post-chemotherapy and one pre-chemotherapy RB tumor tissues was performed, followed by Principle Component Analysis, Gene ontology, Pathway Enrichment analysis and Biological Analysis Network (BAN) modeling. The drug modulation role of two significantly up-regulated genes ( P≤0.05) — Ect2 (Epithelial-cell-transforming-sequence-2), and PRAME (preferentially-expressed-Antigen-in-Melanoma) was assessed by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and cell viability assays.

Results

Differential up-regulation of 1672 genes and down-regulation of 2538 genes was observed in RB tissues (relative to normal adult retina), while 1419 genes were commonly de-regulated between pre-chemotherapy and post- chemotherapy RB. Twenty one key gene ontology categories, pathways, biomarkers and phenotype groups harboring 250 differentially expressed genes were dys-regulated ( EZH2, NCoR1, MYBL2, RB1, STAMN1, SYK, JAK1/2, STAT1/2, PLK2/4, BIRC5, LAMN1, Ect2, PRAME and ABCC4). Differential molecular expressions of PRAME and Ect2 in RB tumors with and without chemotherapy were analyzed. There was neither up- regulation of MRP1, nor any significant shift in chemotherapeutic IC50, in PRAME over-expressed versus non-transfected RB cells.

Conclusion

Cell cycle regulatory genes were dys-regulated post-chemotherapy. Ect2 gene was expressed in response to chemotherapy-induced stress. PRAME does not contribute to drug resistance in RB, yet its nuclear localization and BAN information, points to its possible regulatory role in RB.
Assessment of Hygiene Practices and Identification of Critical Control Points Relating to the Production of Skewered Meat Sold in N’Djamena-Chad
Authors: Tidjani Abdelsalam , Doutoum Abdelsalam Adoum , Otchom Brahim Boy , Bechir Mahamat , Chemi Hourra Djiguide , Toukourou Fatiou , Souza Comlan Aristide de
Published: September 2013

Meat is a food of choice because of its nutritional quality. Grills are regularly consumed in Africa and particularly in the Sahelian countries. These are very popular consumer products. However, they can be contaminated by various microorganisms and cause food poisoning if the meat is not handled in hygienic conditions. In order to contribute to improving the quality of these products, we have followed the steps in production of meat skewers by the method of “5M” of Ishikawa. The “HACCP decision tree” model was used to determine the Critical Control Points (CCP). Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) is a method and principles of management of food safety. The results of monitoring procedures for making meat skewers showed many shortcomings in hygiene. Six (06) critical points were determined. As for testing, we conducted microbiological analyzes on fifty (50) units of samples corresponding to ten (10) different types of products collected at different stages of production. Compared to AFNOR (French Association of Standardization), criteria for cooked and dehydrated soups and considering the analytical variability associated with the methods of analysis, our results indicate that the products contaminated with germs indicating failure to comply with hygiene. Samples analyzed presented at different stages of production compliance rate of 40% for total bacteria (30 °C), 30% for total coliforms and thermotolerant coliforms (44 °C). The rate of non-compliance is 40% compared with sulphite-reducing anaerobes. Molds identified in meat skewered and ingredients are Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium sp and Geotrichum sp. Salmonella, S. aureus and yeasts are absent in the samples. Training on good hygiene practices is required at vendors in order to ensure the hygienic quality of grilled meats.
Inﬂuence of selenium on growth, lipid peroxidation and antioxidative enzyme activity in melon (Cucumis melo L.) seedlings under salt stress
Authors: KeLing Hu , Ling Zhang , JiTao Wang , Yang You
Published: September 2013

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of exogenous selenium (Se) supply (0, 2, 4, 8, 16 μM) on the growth, lipid peroxidation and antioxidative enzyme activity of 100 mM NaCl-stressed melon (Cucumis melo L.) seedlings. Salt stress significantly reduced the growth attributes including stem length, stem diameter, dry weight and increased antioxidative enzyme activity [superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT)]. Moreover, the plant exhibited a significant increase in electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde (MDA) content under NaCl stress. Se supplementation not only improved the growth parameters but also successfully ameliorated the adverse effect caused by salt stress in melon seedlings. However, the mitigation of NaCl-stressed seedlings was different depending on the Se concentration. At lower concentrations (2–8 μM), Se improved growth and acted as antioxidant by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and increasing in SOD and POD enzymes activity under salt stress. At higher concentrations (16 μM), Se exerted diminished beneficial effects on growth. Whereas CAT activity was enhanced. The result indicated that Se supplementation had a positive physiological effect on the growth and development of salt-stressed melon seedlings.
Monitoring fitness of caged mussels (Elliptio complanata) to assess and prioritize streams for restoration
Authors: Gray Matthew W. , Kreeger Danielle
Published: September 2013

Freshwater mussels (order: Unionidae) are among the most endangered aquatic organisms in North America. Conservationists and resource managers within the United States are increasingly advocating restoration of these animals to preserve biodiversity and boost ecosystem services in the nation's waterways.

Historically, restoration methods have yielded less than optimal survival rates due in part to an inability to identify suitable habitat for these organisms. Through the use of caged mussels as bioindicators, a method was developed to test prospective restoration sites for their ability to support mussel fitness before beginning restoration so that investments are strategic.

Mussels (Elliptio complanata) from a healthy population were caged and deployed to candidate streams. Their survivorship, condition, and proximate biochemical composition (protein, carbohydrate, lipid) was then monitored for 1 year. Streams that supported mussel fitness as well as or better than their source stream were considered to be suitable for restoration.

Four of five candidate streams were found to support mussel fitness. In addition, reciprocal transfers between two source populations showed that the seasonal patterns of tissue biochemical composition responded to ambient stream conditions, indicating that this species is diagnostic as a bioindicator of stream quality and habitat suitability.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Die elektrische Leitfähigkeit geschmolzener Alkalinitrate bei hohen Drücken III. Der Druckbereich bis 55 kbar
Authors: Pilz V. , Tödheide K.
Published: September 2013

Die spezifischen Leitfähigkeiten der geschmolzenen Alkalinitrate mit Ausnahme des Cäsiumnitrats wurden in einer Belt‐Apparatur bis 700°C und maximal 55 kbar gemessen. Die Leitfähigkeiten von Natrium‐, Kalium‐ und Rubidiumnitxat zeigen logarithmisch als Funktion des Druckes bei konstanten Temperaturen aufgetragen in einem schmalen Bereich bei mittleren Drücken eine starke Krümmung. In diesem Bereich, der sich mit zunehmender Kationengröße zu niedrigeren Drücken verschiebt, fällt das Aktivierungsvolumen auf etwa die Hälfte seines Niederdruckwertes ab. Bei den gleichen Bedingungen ändert die isochore Aktivierungsenergie, die mit Hilfe extrapolierter PVT‐Daten berechnet wurde, ihre Volumabhängigkeit drastisch. Beim Lithiumnitrat wurden beide Erscheinungen nicht gefunden. Die experimentellen Beobachtungen, die auf einen Wechsel im Mechanismus des Ladungstransports bei hohen Drücken hindeuten, lassen sich qualitativ mit einem von Fürth entwickelten Flüssigkeitsmodell interpretieren.
Data Visualization and Evaluation
Authors: Azzam Tarek , Evergreen Stephanie , Germuth Amy A. , Kistler Susan J.
Published: September 2013

This chapter elaborates on the definition of data visualization, highlights its historical development, and offers examples of how data visualization has been used in evaluations to help aid understanding, collect data and information, conduct analysis, and communicate to a variety of stakeholders. This chapter also outlines future trends in data visualization and their potential influence on evaluation practice. The chapter concludes with some of the main limitations and cautions that are associated with data visualization. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Goal‐Directed Fluid Therapy in Gastrointestinal Surgery in Older Coronary Heart Disease Patients: Randomized Trial
Authors: Zheng Hong , Guo Hai , Ye Jian‐rong , Chen Lin , Ma Hai‐ping
Published: September 2013

Background

Our aim was to determine whether substitution of goal‐directed fluid therapy (GDT) (perioperative fluid administration) for traditional therapy to manage elderly patients with coronary heart disease scheduled for gastrointestinal (GI) surgery was advantageous. We determined if it would reduce cardiac complications and shorten time to recovery and discharge.

Methods

Altogether, 60 of these elderly patients were randomized into GDT (n = 30) and control (n = 30) groups. In the GDT group, fluid management was carried out under guidance of hemodynamic status indicators. Types and quantities of fluids administered, blood loss, intraoperative urine output, time of extubation, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospital stay, postoperative adverse cardiac events, and GI complications were recorded.

Results

Total fluids infused were 2,910 ± 645 ml (GDT group) and 3,640 ± 771 ml (control group) (p < 0.05). Numbers of adverse cardiac events in the two groups were not significantly different (p = 0.121). Return of GI function was significantly faster in the GDT group (p < 0.001). Median ICU stay was 32.5 h in the GDT group and 47.5 h in the control group (p < 0.001). Median hospital stay was 18 days in the GDT group and 22 days in the control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

GDT was associated with shorter ICU stay and time to discharge and faster return of GI function compared to traditional fluid therapy. The number of adverse cardiac events was similar in the two groups.
Social Cohesion and Self‐Rated Health: The Moderating Effect of Neighborhood Physical Disorder
Authors: Bjornstrom Eileen E. S. , Ralston Margaret L. , Kuhl Danielle C.
Published: September 2013

Using data from the Los Angeles Family and Neighborhood Survey and its companion datasets, we examined how neighborhood disorder, perceived danger and both individually perceived and contextually measured neighborhood social cohesion are associated with self‐rated health. Results indicate that neighborhood disorder is negatively associated with health and the relationship is explained by perceived cohesion and danger, which are both also significant predictors of health. Further, individually perceived cohesion emerges as a more important explanation of self‐rated health than neighborhood‐level social cohesion. Finally, neighborhood disorder and perceived cohesion interact to influence health, such that cohesion is especially beneficial when residents live in neighborhoods characterized by low to moderate disorder; once disorder is at high levels, cohesion no longer offers protection against poor health. We interpret our findings as they relate to prior research on neighborhoods, psychosocial processes, and health, and discuss their implications for intervention efforts that address disorder in urban communities.
Genetic Counseling/Consultation in South‐East Asia: A Report from the Workshop at the 10th Asia Pacific Conference on Human Genetics
Authors: Zayts Olga , Sarangi Srikant , Thong Meow‐Keong , Chung Brian Hon‐yin , Lo Ivan Fao‐man , Kan Anita Sik‐yau , Lee Juliana Mei‐Har , Padilla Carmencita David , Cutiongco‐de la Paz Eva Maria , Faradz Sultana M. H. , Wasant Pornswan
Published: September 2013

This paper reports on the workshop ‘Genetic Counseling/Consultations in South‐East Asia’ at the 10thAsia Pacific Conference on Human Genetics in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in December 2012. The workshop brought together professionals and language/communication scholars from South‐East Asia, and the UK. The workshop aimed at addressing culture‐ and context‐specific genetic counseling/consultation practices in South‐East Asia. As a way of contextualizing genetic counseling/consultation in South‐East Asia, we first offer an overview of communication‐oriented research generally, drawing attention to consultation and counseling as part of a communicative continuum with distinctive interactional features. We then provide examples of genetic counseling/consultation research in Hong Kong. As other countries in South‐East Asia have not yet embarked on communication‐oriented empirical research, we report on the current practices of genetic counseling/consultation in these countries in order to identify similarities and differences as well as key obstacles that could be addressed through future research. Three issues emerged as ‘problematic’: language, religion and culture. We suggest that communication‐oriented research can provide a starting point for evidence‐based reflections on how to incorporate a counseling mentality in genetic consultation. To conclude, we discuss the need for creating a platform for targeted training of genetic counselors based on communication‐oriented research findings.
Through the eyes of a medical student
Authors: Jacobson Dustin
Published: September 2013

As a medical student, I have come to appreciate the generosity of the patient time
that I experience. This places me in a unique position as I can become truly immersed in
the perspective of the patients I see. I have the time to engage and understand how they
see their illness, their social barriers and many other factors that affect their
overall wellbeing. In this particular encounter, I discuss one of the more memorable
interviews I’ve had with a patient. We shared a connection that I hope will influence my
interactions with patients in the future.
Fischer on the Fragilist Account of Alternative Possibilities
Authors: YI HUIYUHL
Published: September 2013

One response to the Frankfurtian attack on the Principle of Alternate Possibilities is to advert to the observation that the agent’s actual action (or the particular event resulting from that action) is numerically distinct from the corresponding action (or the resultant event) he would have generated in the relevant counterfactual scenario. Since this response is based on taking actions and events to be fragile, I shall call it the fragilist account of alternative possibilities. This paper addresses an anti-fragilist argument delivered by John Martin Fischer. I contend that, on close examination, Fischer’s counterargument does not undermine the fragilist account.
Simple shade plots aid better long-term choices of data pre-treatment in multivariate assemblage studies
Authors: Clarke K. Robert , Tweedley James R. , Valesini Fiona J.
Published: September 2013

Shade plots, simple visual representations of abundance matrices from multivariate species assemblage studies, are shown to be an effective aid in choosing an overall transformation (or other pre-treatment) of quantitative data for long-term use, striking an appropriate balance between dominant and less abundant taxa in ensuing resemblance-based multivariate analyses. Though the exposition is entirely general and applicable to all community studies, detailed illustrations of the comparative power and interpretative possibilities of shade plots are given in the case of two estuarine assemblage studies in south-western Australia: (a) macrobenthos in the upper Swan Estuary over a two-year period covering a highly significant precipitation event for the Perth area; and (b) a wide-scale spatial study of the nearshore fish fauna from five divergent estuaries. The utility of transformations of intermediate severity is again demonstrated and, with greater novelty, the potential importance seen of further mild transformation of all data after differential down-weighting (dispersion weighting) of spatially ‘clumped’ or ‘schooled’ species. Among the new techniques utilized is a two-way form of the RELATE test, which demonstrates linking of assemblage structure (fish) to continuous environmental variables (water quality), having removed a categorical factor (estuary differences). Re-orderings of sample and species axes in the associated shade plots are seen to provide transparent explanations at the species level for such continuous multivariate patterns.
Natural spatial variability of algal endosymbiont density in the coralAcropora globiceps: a small-scale approach along environmental gradients around Moorea (French Polynesia)
Authors: Ladrière Ophélie , Penin Lucie , Van Lierde Elodie , Vidal-Dupiol Jeremie , Kayal Mohsen , Roberty Stéphane , Poulicek Mathieu , Adjeroud Mehdi
Published: September 2013

This study provides a baseline describing natural small scale variability ofSymbiodiniumdensity in the sentinel coralAcropora globicepsduring the summer, under non-bleaching conditions. Spatial scales investigated range from the colony scale (1–10 cm, i.e. among branches of the same colony) to the reef scale (1–10 km, i.e. among stations distributed over several locations and depths), at Moorea Island, French Polynesia. The coral–Symbiodiniumsymbiosis is a key process in scleractinian coral physiology, andSymbiodiniumdensity provides an easy-to-measure and inexpensive biomarker of this symbiosis health. Spatial variability of three major environmental factors: light intensity, sedimentation and water motion was also assessed to evaluate their potential link withSymbiodiniumdensity. Density ofSymbiodiniumdid not significantly differ within colonies or among colonies within a station. However, a marked depth gradient was observed, showing increasing density with increasing depth and decreasing light intensity. These observations provide an interesting reference for forthcoming comparisons with disturbed conditions, such as bleaching events.
Trends of human brucellosis in Italy, 1998–2010
Authors: MANCINI F. R. , BELLA A. , GRAZIANI C. , MARIANELLI C. , MUGHINI-GRAS L. , PASQUALI P. , POMPA M. G. , RIZZO C. , RIZZUTO E. , BUSANI L.
Published: September 2013

We describe the epidemiological trends and spatial distribution of human brucellosis in Italy over 13 years (1998–2010). In the study period 8483 cases were notified in Italy, with a relevant decrease (−89%) from 1998 to 2010. Most cases were notified in southern Italy (Campania, Apulia, Calabria, Sicily). In these regions we observed relevant differences in the risk of brucellosis at province level. Cases were distributed with a seasonal pattern, male patients represented 60% of the cases and no significant differences were observed between age groups. We modelled the underreporting rate that ranged between 2 and 21 (average 12·5). According to our estimates the true number of cases would have ranged from 41 821 to 155 324 providing a far more severe picture of human brucellosis in Italy than the one provided by the surveillance system.
Population status and trend of the Critically Endangered Montserrat Oriole
Authors: OPPEL STEFFEN , CASSINI ANDREW , FENTON CALVIN , DALEY JAMES , GRAY GERARD
Published: September 2013

Many island endemics are of great conservation concern due to small range and population sizes. The Montserrat OrioleIcterus oberiis a forest passerine endemic to the Caribbean island of Montserrat, where recent volcanic activity has destroyed a large proportion of suitable forest habitat. From 1997 to 2000 the Montserrat Oriole population declined dramatically even in the remaining forest habitat, leading to its classification as ‘Critically Endangered’. We present trend estimates of the Montserrat Oriole population from 2000 to 2013, and estimate the world population size in 2012 based on repeat point counts and beta-binomial mixture models. Montserrat Orioles recovered between 2003 and 2005, and we found no evidence for a continuing population decline. However, there was large uncertainty around trend estimates, and the power to detect a shallow negative trend was very low. Based on the comparison of count data at 42 points, the Montserrat Oriole population in 2013 was less than half as large as in 1998. To improve future trend estimates a new monitoring design was introduced in 2011, and applied to all subpopulations of the species in 2012. The world population in 2012 was estimated to hold between 307 (95% credible interval 212–503) and 690 birds (476–1131) birds in the two forest fragments on Montserrat, depending on whether the sampling area around each point count was assumed to encompass 100 m or 150 m. Based on these estimates, the Montserrat Oriole currently does not meet the IUCN criteria for ‘Critically Endangered’, and we recommend a revision of the species’ conservation status.
Left hemitruncus with normal right-sided pressures in an adult
Authors: Nigam Arima , Trehan Vijay
Published: September 2013

Hemitruncus is a rare congenital heart disease. Anomalous origin of the left pulmonary artery is not only rare but also pathogenetically different from anomalous origin of the right pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta. In most cases in isolated hemitrucus pressures in the right ventricle and the normally originating pulmonary artery are systemic or suprasystemic. We present a rare case of anomalous origin of the left pulmonary artery from the ascending aorta diagnosed in an adult with normal pressures in the right ventricle and normally originating pulmonary artery. To the best of our knowledge, this unique haemodynamics has never been reported in the literature.
Differential Contributions of Executive and Episodic Memory Functions to Problem Solving in Younger and Older Adults
Authors: Vandermorris Susan , Sheldon Signy , Winocur Gordon , Moscovitch Morris
Published: September 2013

The relationship of higher order problem solving to basic neuropsychological processes likely depends on the type of problems to be solved. Well-defined problems (e.g., completing a series of errands) may rely primarily on executive functions. Conversely, ill-defined problems (e.g., navigating socially awkward situations) may, in addition, rely on medial temporal lobe (MTL) mediated episodic memory processes. Healthy young (N = 18; M = 19; SD = 1.3) and old (N = 18; M = 73; SD = 5.0) adults completed a battery of neuropsychological tests of executive and episodic memory function, and experimental tests of problem solving. Correlation analyses and age group comparisons demonstrated differential contributions of executive and autobiographical episodic memory function to well-defined and ill-defined problem solving and evidence for an episodic simulation mechanism underlying ill-defined problem solving efficacy. Findings are consistent with the emerging idea that MTL-mediated episodic simulation processes support the effective solution of ill-defined problems, over and above the contribution of frontally mediated executive functions. Implications for the development of intervention strategies that target preservation of functional independence in older adults are discussed. (JINS, 2013, 19, 1–10)
Triangle-free reserving A non-traditional framework for estimating reserves and reserve uncertainty ‐ Abstract of the London discussion
Authors: Parodi Pietro
Published: September 2013

This abstract relates to the following paper:

ParodiP.Triangle free reserving.British Actuarial Journal, doi:10.1017/S1357321713000093
Social Science and Systemic Failure
Authors: Rutland Peter
Published: September 2013

Invisible Hands, Russian Experience, and Social Science: Approaches to Understanding Systemic Failure. By Stefan Hedlund. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2011. 324p. $95.00, cloth, $35.99 paper.

In recent decades the study of social phenomena has been characterized by the increasing specialization of academic subdisciplines. At the same time, social science has had great difficulty in accounting for instances of systemic failure that challenge the artificial typologies often promoted by specialized scholarship. Increasing theoretical sophistication thus arguably has come at the expense of grasping the particular and unique nature of historical events. In Invisible Hands, Russian Experience, and Social Science, Stefan Hedlund examines the postcommunist Russian encounter with capitalism and the global financial crisis as examples of unprecedented events that challenged social scientists' assumptions about the causes of human behavior and the functioning of social and political institutions. In this symposium a group of political scientists have been asked to critically assess the book's account and to comment more broadly on what systemic failure can tell us about social science theorizing.—Jeffrey C. Isaac, Editor
Response to Edward S. Steinfeld's review of No One's World: The West, the Rising Rest, and the Coming Global Turn
Authors: Kupchan Charles A.
Published: September 2013

I am grateful to Edward Steinfeld for his thoughtful review of No One's World. I focus my response to his critique on three issues: the rise of the West, the implications of China's ascent, and the challenge of preserving a rules-based international system.
“Illegal,” “Undocumented,” or “Unauthorized”: Equivalency Frames, Issue Frames, and Public Opinion on Immigration
Authors: Merolla Jennifer , Ramakrishnan S. Karthick , Haynes Chris
Published: September 2013

Immigration has been a salient and contentious topic in the United States, with a great deal of congressional debate, advocacy efforts, and media coverage. Among conservative and liberal groups, there is a vigorous debate over the terms used to describe this population, such as “undocumented” or “illegal,” as both sides perceive significant consequences to public opinion that flow out of this choice in equivalency frames. These same groups also compete over the ways in which immigration policies are framed. Here, for the first time, we examine the use of both types of frames (of immigrants themselves, and the policies affecting them) in media coverage. Importantly, we also test for whether these various frames affect preferences on three different policies of legalization. Our results suggest that efforts to focus on the terms used to describe immigrants have limited effect, and that efforts to frame policy offer greater promise in swaying public opinion on immigration.
Historical Set Points and the Development of U.S. Presidential Emergency Power
Authors: Tichenor Daniel J.
Published: September 2013

The recent outpouring of work on executive power during emergencies, inspired by the post-9/11 era, has significantly enhanced our legal and theoretical understanding of this crucial subject. A key flaw in this literature, however, is that it is historically un-rooted, either dismissing or ignoring important analytical and empirical insights from presidential research and from APD and historical-institutionalist perspectives. In this article, I argue that we can better explain patterns and variations in the use of presidential emergency power by paying careful attention to shifting historical set points for executive choice and action during security crises. In particular, the findings here underscore the episodic growth of new precedents, resources, and expectations for the White House in perilous contexts. The development of presidential emergency power reflects the potential for early executive choices to be repeated and legitimated over time, laying dormant as a “loaded weapon” to be used by future executives in similarly urgent circumstances.
Social Science and Systemic Failure
Authors: Carnaghan Ellen
Published: September 2013

Invisible Hands, Russian Experience, and Social Science: Approaches to Understanding Systemic Failure. By Stefan Hedlund. New York: Cambridge University Press, 2011. 324p. $95.00, cloth, $35.99 paper.

In recent decades the study of social phenomena has been characterized by the increasing specialization of academic subdisciplines. At the same time, social science has had great difficulty in accounting for instances of systemic failure that challenge the artificial typologies often promoted by specialized scholarship. Increasing theoretical sophistication thus arguably has come at the expense of grasping the particular and unique nature of historical events. In Invisible Hands, Russian Experience, and Social Science, Stefan Hedlund examines the postcommunist Russian encounter with capitalism and the global financial crisis as examples of unprecedented events that challenged social scientists' assumptions about the causes of human behavior and the functioning of social and political institutions. In this symposium a group of political scientists have been asked to critically assess the book's account and to comment more broadly on what systemic failure can tell us about social science theorizing.—Jeffrey C. Isaac, Editor