bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manufacture and effectiveness evaluations of high-modulus electromagnetic interference shielding/puncture resisting composites
Authors: Li Ting-Ting , Wang Rui , Lou Ching-Wen , Lin Mei-Chen , Lin Jia-Horng
Published: May 2013

The EMI shielding composites consisted of carbon fabric and nonwovens were developed based on needle punching and thermal bonding techniques, and their static and dynamic puncture resistances were also evaluated to resist against different puncture behaviors. The result shows that, needle-punched density and thermal bonding correlate with the EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) at particular medium and high frequency range, and respectively has interaction effect with number of layers. The mechanism of EMI shielding is reflection and absorption loss in medium-frequency, and only absorption loss in high-frequency. The static and dynamic puncture resistances improve linearly with number of layers, but both display an upward and then downward trend at increasing needle-punched density. After thermal bonding, the influence of thickness on static puncture resistance becomes significantly but on dynamic puncture resistance insignificantly. The resultant composites are expected to be used as wall interlayer and package interline in the future.
Removal of spandex from nylon/spandex blended fabrics by selective polymer degradation
Authors: Yin Yunjie , Yao Donggang , Wang Chaoxia , Wang Youjiang
Published: May 2013

As the use of fabrics containing spandex for apparel applications is expanding, developing eco-friendly technologies to recycle the industrial as well as post-consumer waste for spandex blended fabrics becomes increasingly important. As is known in the industry and demonstrated in this study, spandex may be removed from blended fabrics by dissolving it in solvents such as N,N-dimethylformamide, but the use of such solvents is undesirable for economical and environmental reasons. The main focus of this study was to develop an alternative process for removing the spandex component in a nylon/spandex blended fabric (NSBF) by selective degradation so that the nylon component can be recovered for recycling. In this process, the fabric first underwent a heat treatment step, followed by a washing process. For the heat treatment, the effect of temperature, water-to-fabric ratio, and pressure were studied. Treatment at 220℃ for 2 hours under atmospheric pressure was found to be very effective, allowing the degraded spandex residues to be readily washed off in ethanol, while the nylon component retained its original morphology. With the removal of spandex in NSBF, a decrease in -CON- absorption peaks in the Fourier transform infrared–attenuated total reflectance spectra of the fabrics was observed.
An (Extra)ordinary Night Out: Urban Informality, Social Sustainability and the Night-time Economy
Authors: Yeo Su-Jan , Heng Chye Kiang
Published: May 2013

A night out in the metropolis can offer a plethora of hedonistic experiences in urban spaces such as waterfront districts, shopping boulevards and cultural precincts. In stark contrast to this post-modern spectacle of contemporary nightlife are the mundane night-time activities that pervade the everyday spaces of ordinary people. Here, we are confronted with a tapestry of a different material culture—one that has evaded the lacklustre and homogeneous pattern of urban bars, pubs and clubs. This paper will illuminate the sociospatial dimensions of everyday (night)life in the neighbourhood of Toa Payoh Central, Singapore, and will demonstrate the resilience of urban informality in an increasingly formal and regulated global city like Singapore. It is contended that everyday (night)life has a significant role to play in the making of vibrant and liveable cities by helping to foster social sustainability in the forms of accessibility, tolerance, diversity and participation.
Epidemiology of suicide in South Africa: Setting an agenda for future research
Authors: Bantjes Jason , Kagee Ashraf
Published: May 2013

This article offers a synthesis and critical overview of published studies on the prevalence and correlates of completed suicide in South Africa. It examines the evidence that suicide is a serious public health problem and highlights what remains unknown about suicide in South Africa. Reflections are offered on the implications of these studies for subsequent research. Focus areas are suggested for future research in order to provide the information needed to inform public health efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with suicidal behaviour. This article is of interest to scholars who seek to plan suicide research in South Africa, public health officials who wish to design suicide prevention programmes, and others who wish to gain an overview of the prevalence and correlates of completed suicide in the country.
Playing games: The salience of social cues and group norms in eliciting aggressive behaviour
Authors: Hughes Megan , Louw Johann
Published: May 2013

The rise in new communication technologies makes anonymous interactions increasingly possible, extending the possibilities for understanding the effects of anonymity on the behaviour of individuals. Theories of deindividuation and dehumanisation propose that anonymity will automatically lead to aggressive and antisocial behaviour, while the Social Identity Model of Deindividuation Effects adds that the social environment can mediate this effect. The first phase of this study was created to test the Social Identity Model of Deindividuation Effects prediction of the role of the social environment. A quasi-experimental design was used within the online computer gaming environment as a testing platform. The results of this phase point to the salience of competitive environments in inducing aggressive behaviour (an effect that may be heightened by large group sizes and human-player opponents). Due to the unusual nature of the results of the first phase, a follow-up study was conducted as a further exploration of the results through open discussions held on various South African gaming-related forums. A number of important themes emerged from these dialogues, specifically that of aggression in others, personal investment, stress relief, and gender. Overall, the results of both phases of this study offer support for the Social Identity Model of Deindividuation Effects model and suggestions of new avenues for future researchers to explore.
Reflecting on South African Psychology: Published research, ‘relevance’, and social issues
Authors: Macleod Catriona , Howell Simon
Published: May 2013

As South Africa prepared to host the 30th International Congress of Psychology in 2012, a call was made to reflect on the strengths of and challenges facing contemporary South African Psychology. This article presents our response to our brief to focus on social issues by presenting the results of a situational analysis of South African Psychology over the last 5 years and comparing this corpus of data to a similar analysis reported in Macleod. Articles appearing in the South African Journal of Psychology and abstracts in PsycINFO with the keyword ‘South Africa’ over a 5.5-year period were analysed. The content of 243 South African Journal of Psychology articles and 1986 PsycINFO abstracts was analysed using the codes developed by Macleod. Results indicate that an increase in the number of articles, a reduction in the percentage of articles using quantitative methodologies and ‘hard’ science theoretical frameworks (particularly in the South African Journal of Psychology), and an increase in qualitative, theoretical, and methodological articles, and articles using systems-oriented theory (particularly in the South African Journal of Psychology). Traditional topics of assessment, stress and psychopathology continue to dominate, with social issues, such as housing, land reform, development programmes, water resources and socio-economic inequities being largely ignored. Most research continues to be conducted in Gauteng, KwaZulu/Natal and the Western Cape, predominantly with adult, urban-based, middle-class participants, sourced mainly from universities, hospitals or clinics, and schools. Collaborations or comparisons with other African, Asian, South American, and Middle East countries have decreased. While the analysis presented in this paper is limited by its exclusion of books, theses, research reports and monographs, it shows that in published research there are some positive trends and some disappointments. The limited number of social issues featuring in published research, the under-representation of certain sectors of the population as participants, and the decrease in collaboration with, or comparison to, countries from the global ‘South’ represent challenges that require systematic attention.
A psycho-social exploration of street begging: A qualitative study
Authors: Stones Christopher R
Published: May 2013

The practice of street begging tends to be perceived by motorists simultaneously as a nuisance but also perhaps as a prod to one’s social conscience. In view of its increasing pervasiveness and visible presence on the streets of both small and large metropolitan areas, this psycho-social phenomenon merits further investigation. This study reports on a range of experiential factors that contribute toward the practice, and reinforcement, of begging, specifically with regard to the South African context. Semistructured, informal interviews with seven “begging” individuals within the Johannesburg (Gauteng) area were conducted to augment the personal experiences of a research assistant (who engaged in a practice of begging for 2 weeks) to explore, and better understand, why people beg and what might maintain their begging. Interview reports, observation, and anecdotal material suggest that the beggar “participants” in this study preferred a lifestyle where the restrictions of formal employment such as having to report for duty and work long hours for a relatively menial wage did not apply. However, the uncertainties of begging were experienced as stressful but not necessarily demeaning. Arising from the interview material, it became clear that issues such as unemployment and difficulty in accessing social grants as well as poor education and homelessness were the overriding precipitating factors. Moreover, there appeared to be a differential age-related experiential profile related to how the present situation was perceived relative to a future orientation.
Using the Sociological Imagination to Teach about Academic Integrity
Authors: Nell Trautner Mary , Borland Elizabeth
Published: May 2013

The sociological imagination is a useful tool for teaching about plagiarism and academic integrity, and, in turn, academic integrity is a good case to help students learn about the sociological imagination.  We present an exercise in which the class discusses reasons for and consequences of dishonest academic behavior and then examines a series of scenarios using the sociological imagination. Students and instructors consider whether each scenario is a violation of academic integrity norms and how it can be viewed as both personal and public. We demonstrate that this kind of discussion helps students learn about academic integrity and how to think of violations (including causes and a range of outcomes) sociologically. In other words, we encourage students to think of academic dishonesty (both causes and consequences) not just as “personal troubles” but also as “public issues.”
Beat the Bourgeoisie
Authors: Norris Dawn R.
Published: May 2013

Simulation games can help overcome student resistance to thinking structurally about social class inequality, meritocracy, and mobility. Most inequality simulations focus solely on economic inequality and omit social and cultural capital, both of which contribute to social class reproduction. Using a pretest/posttest design, the current study evaluates a simulation game that incorporates economic, social, and cultural capital and is meant for introductory sociology classes containing between 15 and 70 students. Data come from a state research university and a liberal arts college. Results show that the simulation increased students’ conceptual understanding of structural explanations for restricted mobility; cultural and social capital; and conceptual connections between stratification concepts. The simulation did not lead to changes in students’ feelings about poor people. Results support the idea of using simulation games to overcome student resistance to the sociological perspective on stratification and suggest that some simulation games may be effective across institutional contexts.
Reflecting the context of MPA education in the time of economic crisis in public sectors in Britain and the Netherlands
Authors: Oldfield Chrissie , Berg Mireille van den
Published: May 2013

The reality of the economic crisis and subsequent cuts in public sector funding in some European countries means that the context for public management education is significantly changing. In a period of economic constraint there is the obvious questioning of the cost of public management education programmes and even more of their relevance and academic content. As a consequence of this, there are not only practical challenges for the survival of public management masters programmes during a harsh economic period, but also the challenge for content to remain relevant to the changing environment, and the question of whether they remain a priority not only for those considering taking these courses, but also for those potentially funding and supporting them. Significant cuts to public sector funding have been compounded by a further crisis across many European public sectors and with that the stark reality of both job losses and losses in public service provision. In such a climate there is obvious questioning of the need, and support, for specific public management academic programmes.

This article looks at the challenges facing public management education programmes in the UK and The Netherlands, as these two countries are undergoing similar periods of economic restraint in public sector funding and where the requirement for public management education is under scrutiny

It argues the need for specific public management programmes despite the blurring of traditional public–private sector divides, and maintains that public management programmes are not only necessary but should continue in order to provide new students and continuing managers with the relevant skills, academic theory and new knowledge needed to manage in contemporary public management. It further argues that public management programmes need to be revised in order to retain their credibility and enable the new type of public manager to be able to manage people and service provision across sectors and in unfamiliar situations.

It looks at the current economic crisis in the UK and The Netherlands and attempts to show ways in which public management programmes can adapt by looking at examples to changes to courses in these countries
Impact of Short‐ and Medium‐Chain Fatty Acids on Mitochondrial Function in Severe Inflammation
Authors: Hecker Matthias , Sommer Natascha , Voigtmann Hans , Pak Oleg , Mohr Andrea , Wolf Martin , Vadász István , Herold Susanne , Weissmann Norbert , Morty Rory E. , Seeger Werner , Mayer Konstantin
Published: May 2013

Background: Sepsis is a severe inflammatory disorder with a high mortality in intensive care units mostly due to multiorgan failure. Mitochondrial dysfunction is regarded as a key factor involved in the pathogenesis of septic disorders, leading to a decline in energy supply. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether application of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFAs) could improve mitochondrial function and thus might serve as a potential energy source under inflammatory conditions. Materials and Methods: As an experimental approach, starved human endothelial cells and monocytes were incubated with hexanoic acid, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid, or glucose and subsequently subjected to high‐resolution respirometry to assess mitochondrial function under baseline conditions. In a second set of experiments, cells were pretreated with tumor necrosis factor–α to mimic inflammation and sepsis. Results: We demonstrated that addition of SCFAs and MCFAs increases mitochondrial respiratory capacity at baseline and inflammatory conditions in both cell types. None of the fatty acids induced changes in mitochondrial DNA content or the generation of proinflammatory cytokines, indicating a beneficial safety profile. Conclusion: We deduce that SCFAs and MCFAs are suitable and safe sources of energy under inflammatory conditions with the capability to partly restore mitochondrial respiration.
Effectiveness of search result classification based on relevance feedback
Authors: Baskaya Feza , Keskustalo Heikki , Järvelin Kalervo
Published: May 2013

Relevance feedback (RF) has been studied under laboratory conditions using test collections and either test persons or simple simulation. These studies have given mixed results. Automatic (or pseudo) RF and intellectual RF, both leading to query reformulation, are the main approaches to explicit RF. In the present study we perform RF with the help of classification of search results. We conduct our experiments in a comprehensive collection, namely various TREC ad-hoc collections with 250 topics. We also studied various term space reduction techniques for the classification process. The research questions are: given RF on top results of pseudo RF (PRF) query results, is it possible to learn effective classifiers for the following results? What is the effectiveness of various classification methods? Our findings indicate that this approach of applying RF is significantly more effective than PRF with short (title) queries and long (title and description) queries.
Organizational Control Systems and Pay-for-Performance in the Public Service
Authors: Frey Bruno S. , Homberg Fabian , Osterloh Margit
Published: May 2013

Under certain conditions, output related performance measurement and pay-for-performance produce negative outcomes. We argue that in public service, these negative effects are stronger than in the private sector. We combine Behavioural Economics and Management Control Theory to determine under which conditions this is the case. We suggest as alternatives to the dominant output related pay-for-performance systems selection and socialization, exploratory use of output performance measures, and awards.
Should the teacher of the gifted be gifted?
Authors: Rosemarin Shoshana
Published: May 2013

There are relatively few research studies focusing on the understanding of teachers of gifted learners, though it is assumed that not all teachers should be assigned to teach the gifted. Most of the studies investigated this issue by examining the perceptions of teachers and students. In most of those studies the results show a preference to the social qualities of the teacher. The ability to respond to students as individuals is considered a central component of successful teaching. Yet, experimental studies show different results. Mills (2003) found that the characteristics of effective teachers of the gifted were similar to those typically ascribed to the gifted students. How important are the teaching skills of the teachers of the gifted? And how significant is his or her expertise in the field? Because the gifted population is not homogeneous, it seems that different students would have different preferences. Yet, it could be concluded that in order to be a successful mediator for gifted students, one would undoubtedly have to be intelligent enough to be able to understand their way of thinking, knowledgeable enough to be able to challenge them and, last but not least, emotionally intelligent.
Governance and Dissidence in Online Culture in China: The Case of Anti-CNN and Online Gaming
Authors: Zhang Tao
Published: May 2013

The article explores two different articulations of the attitudes of young Chinese netizens towards the state: the neo-nationalist web community, ‘Anti-CNN.com’/‘April Youth’, and the online ‘machinema’ film, ‘Online Gaming Addicts’ War’. Both of these online practices are associated with the post-’80 s generation, which I argue is a key constituency in contemporary Chinese internet discourse. Through these case studies, the article explores the viability of recent attempts to apply Foucauldian theories of governmentality to the case of China. It identifies a determining factor here in the recurring tendency of the Party-state, whilst generally attempting to embrace more sophisticated forms of governance, to default towards crude techniques and technologies of prohibition in its regulatory stance towards the internet. Whilst this stance is likely to be unsustainable in view of the dynamics of global media culture, the article argues that this does not undermine claims over the existence of a distinctive Chinese form of governmentality. Rather, the Chinese case should strengthen doubts over the view of some that governmentality is incompatible with the state’s deployment of violence.
Living with breathlessness: A survey of caregivers of breathless patients with lung cancer or heart failure
Authors: Malik Farida A , Gysels Marjolein , Higginson Irene J
Published: May 2013

Background:

Breathlessness is a common, distressing symptom in patients with advanced disease. With increasing focus on home death for patients, carers are expected to support breathless people at home. Little is known about how carers experience breathlessness and the differences in caring for someone with breathlessness and malignant or non-malignant disease.

Aim:

To compare experiences of caring for a breathless patient with lung cancer versus those with heart failure and to examine factors associated with caregiver burden and positive caring experiences.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey of caregivers of breathless patients.

Setting/participants:

Participants were recruited from two London hospitals. Inclusion criteria: caregivers of patients with breathlessness and heart failure or lung cancer. Measures included self-completion of Short Form version of Zarit Burden Interview, a ‘positive caring experiences’ scale and Palliative Care Outcome Scale. We compared caregiver reports between heart failure and lung cancer. Multiple regression analyses were used to examine factors related to burden and positive caring experiences.

Results:

In total, 51 heart failure and 50 lung cancer caregivers were recruited. Most were spouses (72%) and women (80%). Severity of patient breathlessness was similar in both groups. Caregiver concerns were mostly similar across conditions. Higher burden was associated with poorer ‘quality of patient care’ and worse carer psychological health ( R2 = 0.37, F = 12.2, p = 0.01). Caregiver depression and looking after more breathless patients were associated with fewer positive caring experiences ( R2 = 0.15, F = 4.4, p = 0.04).

Conclusions:

Those who care for breathless patients report high levels of unmet needs and burden, equally severe for heart failure and lung cancer caregivers. Caregivers of patients with more severe breathlessness report fewer positive caring experiences and should be targeted by services with increased support in managing this symptom.
How many people need palliative care? A study developing and comparing methods for population-based estimates
Authors: Murtagh Fliss EM , Bausewein Claudia , Verne Julia , Groeneveld E Iris , Kaloki Yvonne E , Higginson Irene J
Published: May 2013

Background:

Understanding the need for palliative care is essential in planning services.

Aim:

To refine existing methods of estimating population-based need for palliative care and to compare these methods to better inform their use.

Design:

(1) Refinement of existing population-based methods, based on the views of an expert panel, and (2) application/comparison of existing and refined approaches in an example dataset. Existing methods vary in approach and in data sources. (a) Higginson used cause of death/symptom prevalence, and using pain prevalence, estimates that 60.28% (95% confidence interval = 60.20%–60.36%) of all deaths need palliative care, (b) Rosenwax used the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems–10th Revision ( ICD-10) causes of death/hospital-use data, and estimates that 37.01% (95% confidence interval = 36.94%–37.07%) to 96.61% (95% confidence interval = 96.58%–96.64%) of deaths need palliative care, and (c) Gómez-Batiste used percentage of deaths plus chronic disease data, and estimates that 75% of deaths need palliative care.

Setting/participants:

All deaths in England, January 2006–December 2008, using linked mortality and hospital episode data.

Results:

Expert panel review identified changing practice (e.g. extension of palliative care to more non-cancer conditions), changing patterns of hospital/home care and multiple, rather than single, causes of death as important. We therefore refined methods (using updated ICD-10 causes of death, underlying/contributory causes, and hospital use) to estimate a minimum of 63.03% (95% confidence interval = 62.95%–63.11%) of all deaths needing palliative care, with lower and upper mid-range estimates between 69.10% (95% confidence interval = 69.02%–69.17%) and 81.87% (95% confidence interval = 81.81%–81.93%).

Conclusions:

Death registration data using both underlying and contributory causes can give reliable estimates of the population-based need for palliative care, without needing symptom or hospital activity data. In high-income countries, 69%–82% of those who die need palliative care.
Vaccination, Herd Behavior, and Herd Immunity
Authors: Cohen Matan J. , Brezis Mayer , Block Colin , Diederich Adele , Chinitz David
Published: May 2013

Background: During the 2009 outbreak of novel influenza AH1N1, insufficient data were available to adequately inform decision makers about benefits and risks of vaccination and disease. We hypothesized that individuals would opt to mimic their peers, having no better decision anchor. We used Game Theory, decision analysis, and transmission models to simulate the impact of subjective risks and preference estimates on vaccination behavior. Methods: We asked 95 students to provide estimates of risk and health state valuations with regard to AH1N1 infection, complications, and expectations of vaccine benefits and risks. These estimates were included in a sequential chain of models: a dynamic epidemic model, a decision tree, and a population-level model. Additionally, participants’ intentions to vaccinate or not at varying vaccination rates were documented. Results: The model showed that at low vaccination rates, vaccination dominated. When vaccination rates increased above 78%, nonvaccination was the dominant strategy. We found that vaccination intentions did not correspond to the shift in strategy dominance and segregated to 3 types of intentions: regardless of what others do 29/95 (31%) intended to vaccinate while 27/95 (28%) did not; among 39 of 95 (41%) intention was positively associated with putative vaccination rates. Conclusions: Some people conform to the majority’s choice, either shifting epidemic dynamics toward herd immunity or, conversely, limiting societal goals. Policy leaders should use models carefully, noting their limitations and theoretical assumptions. Behavior drivers were not explicitly explored in this study, and the discrepant results beg further investigation. Models including real subjective perceptions with empiric or subjective probabilities can provide insight into deviations from expected rational behavior and suggest interventions in order to provide better population outcomes.
Decreased expression of microRNA-206 in breast cancer and its association with disease characteristics and patient survival
Authors: Li Yuyang , Hong Fanzhen , Yu Zhigang
Published: May 2013

Objectives

MicroRNA-206 (miR-206) is downregulated in many human malignancies, which correlates with tumour progression. This study characterized the contribution of miR-206 to the initiation and progression of human breast cancer.

Methods

Consecutive primary breast cancer patients who received radical resection were enrolled. Breast cancer tissue samples were obtained during surgery. MiR-206 levels in matched pairs of cancer tissue and normal adjacent tissue (NAT) samples were examined using quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. The relationship between miR-206 levels and clinicopathological characteristics and overall survival was also investigated.

Results

In 128 patients with breast cancer, miR-206 was downregulated in 119 (93%) tumour tissue compared with their matched NAT samples. Decreased miR-206 was significantly associated with advanced clinical stage and lymph node metastasis. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis revealed that a low miR-206 level was an unfavourable prognostic factor for overall survival, in patients with breast cancer.

Conclusions

This study indicated that miR-206 may be a good candidate as a novel prognostic indicator in breast cancer patients.
Experimental Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis in Quaker Parrots (Myiopsitta monachus)
Authors: Beaufrère H. , Nevarez J. G. , Wakamatsu N. , Clubb S. , Cray C. , Tully T. N.
Published: May 2013

Spontaneous atherosclerosis is common in psittaciformes, and clinical signs associated with flow-limiting stenosis are encountered in pet birds. Nevertheless, a psittacine model of atherosclerosis has not been developed for research investigations. Sixteen captive-bred Quaker parrots ( Myiopsitta monachus) were used in this study. While 4 control birds were fed a maintenance diet, 12 other birds were fed an atherogenic diet composed of 1% cholesterol controlling for a calorie-to-protein ratio for periods ranging from 2 to 8 months. The birds were euthanized at the end of their respective food trial period. Histopathology, transmission electron microscopy, and cholesterol measurement were performed on the ascending aorta and brachiocephalic and pulmonary arteries. Plasma lipoproteins, cholesterol, and triglycerides were also measured on a monthly basis. Significant atherosclerotic lesions were induced within 2 months and advanced atherosclerotic lesions within 4 to 6 months. The advanced lesions were histologically similar to naturally occurring lesions identified in the same parrot species with a lipid core and a fibrous cap. Ultrastructurally, there were extracellular lipid, foam cell, and endothelial changes. Arterial cholesterol content increased linearly over time. Plasma cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) significantly increased over time by an average of 5- and 15-fold, respectively, with a shift from high-density lipoprotein to LDL as the main plasma lipoprotein. Quaker parrots also exhibited high plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity that increased, although not significantly, over time. This experiment demonstrates that in Quaker parrots fed 1% cholesterol, advanced atherosclerosis can be induced relatively quickly, and lesions resemble those found in other avian models and humans.
The Euphemism for the Ineffable Name of God and Its Early Evidence in Chronicles
Authors: Hong Koog P.
Published: May 2013

When the Tetragrammaton began to be read as Adonai is the subject of significant debate. While κύριoς in the Old Greek may be important evidence for this euphemism, many continue to doubt whether κύριoς is original to the Old Greek. In this article, the unique value of the double title ‭הוהי‬ ‭ינדא‬ is established in tracing the euphemism in question, and the replacement of ‭הוהי‬ ‭ינדא‬ of 2 Samuel with ‭םיהלא‬ ‭הוהי‬ in Chronicles is presented as early evidence of the euphemism. Thus the reading Adonai for the Tetragrammaton appears to have begun considerably earlier than is commonly thought.
State Formation in the Hebrew Bible: An Institutional Economic Perspective
Authors: Wagner-Tsukamoto Sigmund
Published: May 2013

This article analyzes the changing approach to state formation in the stories of Joshua, Saul, David and Solomon. These stories are here scrutinized for features of emerging constitutional and institutional economic governance. This article inquires as to why initially a rather federalist structure under Joshua emerged, one that subsequently was replaced by more formally coordinated, hierarchical governance structures. It focuses on attack/defense costs and transaction costs that explain the emergence of state structures and their evolution over time. In addition, institutional economic concepts of political governance (that overcome anarchy and organize wealth creation in society) are projected to state formation in the Hebrew Bible. In this way, this article traces the early, yet pseudo-modern, economic history of a theory of state formation.
Evaluation and Management of Hamstring Injuries
Authors: Ahmad Christopher S. , Redler Lauren H. , Ciccotti Michael G. , Maffulli Nicola , Longo Umile Giuseppe , Bradley James
Published: May 2013

Muscle injuries are the most common injuries in sports, with hamstring injuries accounting for 29% of all injuries in athletes. These injuries lead to prolonged impairment and have a reinjury risk of 12% to 31%. They range from mild muscle damage without loss of structural integrity to complete muscle tearing with fiber disruption. Novel MRI scores are increasingly being used and allow a more precise prediction of return to sport. In this article, the authors review the history, mechanisms of injury, and classification systems for hamstring injuries as well as present the latest evidence related to the management of hamstring injuries, including intramuscular and both proximal and distal insertional injuries. Indications for surgical treatment of certain proximal and distal avulsions, biological augmentation to the nonoperative treatment of midsubstance injuries, and advances in risk reduction and injury prevention are discussed.
Measuring Ankle Instability in Pediatric Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Authors: Mandarakas Melissa , Hiller Claire E. , Rose Kristy J. , Burns Joshua
Published: May 2013

Children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease frequently suffer ankle sprain and experience chronic ankle instability; however, no pediatric self-reported measures of chronic ankle instability exist. The aim was to modify and validate the most reliable measure of chronic ankle instability in adults: the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool. The Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool–Youth was tested for reliability, construct validity, and sensitivity to discriminate between 104 children aged 8 to 16 years: 31 children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, 31 unaffected children with a history of ankle sprains, and 42 controls. Children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease had lower scores compared to unaffected children with a history of sprains (χ2 = 15.10; P < .001) and controls (χ2 = 33.69; P < .001). Scores moderately correlated to visual analog scale scores of ankle steadiness ( rs = 0.684; P < .001), and “good” test-retest reliability was identified (ICC2,1 = 0.73). The Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool–Youth demonstrated excellent sensitivity and construct validity, identifying chronic ankle instability as a common problem for children with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
The effectiveness, cytotoxicity, and intracellular trafficking of nonviral vectors for gene delivery to bone mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Peng Lin , Gao Yuan , Xue Ya-Nan , Huang Shi-Wen , Zhuo Ren-Xi
Published: May 2013

Nonviral gene delivery that enables exogenous gene expression in bone mesenchymal stem cells could accelerate clinical application of cell-based gene therapy. This study systematically investigated and compared the potential of polyethylenimine and Lipofectamine 2000 as gene carriers to modify bone mesenchymal stem cells including transfection efficiency, cytotoxicity, intracellular trafficking as well as cell membrane damage and apoptosis/necrosis. Polyethylenimine at its optimal N/P ratio of 10 demonstrated the same toxic effects but lower transfection efficiency (17.1% vs 39.5%) compared to Lipofectamine. Intracellular trafficking resulted in over 80% of bone mesenchymal stem cells that were able to take up polyethylenimine polyplexes, but only 20.69% showed nuclear uptake; however, for Lipofectamine, about half bone mesenchymal stem cells were found to uptake lipoplexes but about 30% displayed nuclear localization. Moreover, the percentages of nuclear localization of both vectors were in close relationship with their transfection efficiency. We concluded that for bone mesenchymal stem cell transfection, polyethylenimine displayed high cellular uptake but Lipofectamine was more effective in delivering genes into the nucleus, which was likely the underlying basis for a more efficient gene expression. Further structure modification of polyethylenimine such as improving its nuclear entry ability will eventually make it a better candidate for bone mesenchymal stem cells’ in vitro gene delivery.
Application of high-strength biodegradable polyurethanes containing different ratios of biobased isomannide and poly (ϵ-caprolactone) diol
Authors: Lim Dong-In , Park Hyung-Seok , Park Jeong-Hui , Knowles Jonathan C , Gong Myoung-Seon
Published: May 2013

Biodegradable–biocompatible polyurethanes were prepared with fixed hexamethylene diisocyanate and varying ratios of isomannide and poly(ϵ-caprolactone) diol using a simple one-step polymerization without a catalyst. The polyurethane structures were confirmed by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography. The glass transition temperatures were determined by thermal analysis to be between 25°C and 30°C. Degradation tests performed at 37°C in phosphate buffer produced mass losses of 5%–10% after 8 weeks. After 5 days of culture, using osteoblastic cells, the relative cell number on all the polyurethane films was only slightly lower than that of an optimized tissue culture plastic. These polymers offer significant promise with a simplistic synthesis and controlled degradation.
Patterns of Work-Related Intimate Partner Violence and Job Performance Among Abusive Men
Authors: Mankowski Eric S. , Galvez Gino , Perrin Nancy A. , Hanson Ginger C. , Glass Nancy
Published: May 2013

This study assesses different types of work-related intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration and their relationship to perpetrators’ work performance and employment. We determine if groups of abusive men with similar patterns of work-related IPV exist and then examine whether the patterns are related to their characteristics, job performance, and employment outcomes. Participants were 198 adult men (60% Latino, 40% non-Latino) from batterer intervention programs (BIPs) who self-reported their lifetime work-related IPV and job outcomes. Five distinct clusters were identified and named based on the pattern (predominance or absence) of different work-related abusive behaviors reported: (a) low-level tactics, (b) job interference, (c) job interference with threatened or actual violence, (d) extreme abuse without jealousy and (e) extreme abuse. Analyses revealed significant differences between the clusters on ethnicity, parental status, partner’s employment status, income, education, and (among Latinos only) acculturation. The probability of men’s work-related IPV substantially impacting their own job performance was nearly 4 times greater among those in the extreme abuse cluster than those in the low-level tactics cluster. These data inform the development of employee training programs and workplace policies for reducing IPV that affects the workplace.
A stochastic multiobjective multiconstraint inventory model under inflationary condition and different inspection scenarios
Authors: Gholami-Qadikolaei Aref , Mirzazadeh Abolfazl , Tavakkoli-Moghaddam Reza
Published: May 2013

This article presents inspection scenarios for the multiobjective multiconstraint mixed backorder and lost sales inventory model with imperfect items in which the order quantity, reorder point, ordering cost, lead time, and backorder rate are decision variables. The objectives are minimizing expected annual cost and variance of shortages. The number of imperfect items is assumed to be a beta-binomial random variable. There are two inspection scenarios: the imperfect items observed during inspection and screenings are either all reworked or all discarded. In order to fit some real environment, this study assumes the maximum permissible storage space and available budget are limited. Backorder rate is considered as a function of expected shortages at the end of cycle. Stochastic inflationary conditions with a probability density function are also considered in the presented model. This study assumes that the purchasing cost is paid when an order arrives at the beginning of the cycle, and the ordering cost is paid at the time of the order placing. The aggregate demand follows a normal distribution function. Finally, a solution procedure is proposed in order to solve the discussed multiobjective model. In addition, a numerical example is presented to illustrate the multiobjective model and its solution procedure for different inspection scenarios, and a sensitivity analysis is conducted with respect to the important system parameters.
Research on a novel linearity amending system for the precise film potentiometer
Authors: Pan Gen , Guan En Guang , Yang Fan , Zhan Shi Tao , Fu Zhuang , Zhao Yan Zheng
Published: May 2013

This article presents a novel linearity amending system for the precise film potentiometer. The proposed mathematical model for this film resistor can accurately describe the electrical characteristics of the potentiometer and estimate the thickness of carbon film, which is the source of linearity error. The voltage–position curve is measured first to model each unique potentiometer. Due to the noise and interference, the detected data have some outliers in the measurement. Next, a new algorithm to process the outliers of the data is proposed, which can identify and eliminate the noise interference. Finally, a cut profile is given to modify the linearity of potentiometer based on the model. The laser fixing robot was developed to check and improve the linearity of potentiometer, with the laser processing technology, to remove the redundant parts. Experiments illustrate the proposed method.
A fast optimization approach for multipass wire drawing processes based on the analytical model
Authors: Zhang Guang-Liang , Wang Zhang-Wei , Zhang Shi-Hong , Cheng Ming , Song Hong-Wu
Published: May 2013

A fast optimization approach is described for design optimization of the multipass wire drawing process with genetic algorithm. The analytical models for calculation of the drawing force, power consumption, and the temperature rise are addressed by considering the real steel wire drawing condition, and a new die wear factor indicating die wear and life is established based on the slab method. The genetic algorithm has been implemented to build up a single objective optimizer for minimizing the total power consumption and a multiobjective optimizer for minimizing both the total power consumption and temperature rise under several deliberate design constraints. The numerical examples show that the multiobjective optimizer presents better performance in finding the optimal solution, compared with the single objective optimizer. Different types of optimization methods especially designed for real demands are demonstrated under multiobjective optimization set. Compared with a reference design, it indicates that significant improvements in the total power consumption and the control of maximum temperature, delta factor, and die life have been achieved by the optimization. It has been proved that the optimizer for the multipass wire drawing processes is highly effective and efficient.
Quasi-cylindrical surface verification based on equivalent radius and Gaussian image using three-dimensional noncontact measurement points
Authors: Wang Hua , Yu Junyang
Published: May 2013

There are many complex surfaces in complex products, such as the leading edge of the airplane wing and the blade of a propeller. These quasi-cylindrical surfaces are deliberately designed according to functional requirements. The verification algorithm of quasi-cylindrical surfaces is the foundation for a leading edge shape control. Traditional indices are not fit for the quasi-cylindrical surface verification because there are no distinct features in these surfaces. An efficient and robust verification algorithm based on an equivalent radius and the Gaussian image for a quasi-cylindrical surface verification is proposed in this article. Gaussian image is employed to determine the principal direction of scanned datapoints. Three-dimensional wavelet filtering method is used to conduct datapoints processing because of its excellent three-dimensional information-processing capability. Good performance is obtained in the process of the leading edge verification by the demonstration of principal direction determining and circle fitting. The results of this research will enhance the understanding of the quasi-cylindrical surface evaluation, especially the leading edge verification, and help systematically improving the verification and validation of aerodynamic performance where the as-designed shape of the leading edge is compared with the shape tested in the wind tunnel.
Integrating grey relational analysis and support vector machine for performance prediction of modular configured products
Authors: Zhang Meng , Li Guo-Xi , Gong Jing-Zhong , Wu Bao-Zhong
Published: May 2013

Evaluating whether a newly configured product can satisfy the customers’ individual requirements or not is crucially important for the modular configuration design. Product performance prediction at the end of the configuration process can estimate the performance parameter values through the soft computing method instead of practical test experiments, which enables fast and accurate evaluation of configuration schemes. In this article, we propose a novel prediction approach based on the integration of grey relational analysis and support vector machine through discovering the knowledge from the historical configuration information. The implementation process of the prediction is established, and the procedure in applying the prediction to the configuration design is presented. There are three key steps to achieve performance prediction. First, the module parameters that affect the performance need to be reduced using the grey relational analysis method and then a module parameter reduction is generated. Second, the relationship between the reduced module parameters and the performance parameter is mined from the limited existing product data. A support vector machine model used for regression prediction is constituted. Third, when the values of the module parameter reduction are determined, the performance value of a newly configured product can be predicted by means of the support vector machine model. This methodology can ensure the performance prediction executed in a short period of time with a high degree of precision, even under the small-sample conditions. A design case of the plate electrostatic precipitator is studied to illustrate and demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method.