bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does a falling level of activity predict disability development in community-dwelling elderly people?
Authors: Vermeulen Joan , Spreeuwenberg Marieke D , Daniëls Ramon , Neyens Jacques CL , Van Rossum Erik , De Witte Luc P
Published: November 2012

Objective:

To investigate the predictive value of self-reported decline in weight, exhaustion, walking difficulty, grip strength and physical activity on development of disabilities in community-dwelling elderly people.

Design:

A one-year follow-up study.

Setting:

Participants were recruited via four Dutch general practitioners.

Participants:

Community-dwelling elderly people aged 70 years or older.

Methods:

A total of 687 participants received a questionnaire at baseline regarding weight loss, exhaustion, walking difficulty, grip strength, physical activity and disability. The same questionnaire was sent to them after one year follow-up. Disability was operationalized in two ways: as increased dependence and as increased difficulty in daily activities. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine whether self-reported decline in five physical indicators at baseline predicted development of dependence or increased difficulty in daily activities after one year. The analyses were controlled for age, gender and baseline disability.

Results:

Four hundred and one participants with a mean age of 76.9 years (SD 5.2) were included in the analyses. Eighty-four of them reported increased dependence (21%) and 76 reported increased difficulty (19%) in daily activities at one-year follow-up. All physical indicators, except weight loss, were significant univariate predictors of disability. Multivariate analyses revealed that self-reported decrease in physical activity (e.g. walking, cycling, gardening) was a significant predictor of development of dependence (odds ratio (OR) = 1.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–3.51) and development of difficulty (OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.05–3.71) in daily activities.

Conclusion:

Community-dwelling elderly people who report decreased physical activity have a higher risk to develop disability at one-year follow-up.
Comparing Socioemotional Outcomes for Early Adolescents Who Join After School for Internal or External Reasons
Authors: Berry Tiffany , LaVelle Katherine B.
Published: November 2012

Students’ reason for joining after school programs can be categorized into two groups: self-joined (internal orientation) or other-joined (external orientation stemming from parents, teachers, etc.). Drawing upon Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985), we tested whether students’ reason to join an after school program related to proximal and distal socioemotional outcomes (i.e., autonomy, perceived trust in staff, self-efficacy, and prosocial behavior) in 277 low-income, early adolescents (sixth through eighth graders) participating in an after school program. Within the context of an external evaluation of a large after school program, student surveys were administered at the beginning and end of the school year to assess change over time in socioemotional outcomes. After controlling for gender, compared to other-joined students, self-joined students demonstrated significantly higher autonomy, self-efficacy, and prosoical behaviors both initially and over time. However, students who switched their reported motivation for joining from self-joined at pretest to other-joined at posttest significantly decreased socioemotional ratings compared to all other student groups. Implications for youth development researchers, evaluators, and after school practitioners are discussed.
Stress concentration factor in the matrix reinforced with fiber having an interface layer
Authors: Yao Zhan , Huang Zheng-Ming
Published: November 2012

Bridging Model is a versatile micromechanical theory, which can be used to simulate nonlinear behavior and ultimate strength of a laminated composite. The application of the Bridging Model requires input data of the in-situ mechanical properties of its constituents. A previous research has shown that the in-situ transverse strength of the matrix is equal to the pure matrix strength divided by a stress concentration factor along that direction. The stress concentration factor therein, however, was obtained based on a perfect bonding assumption between the fiber and the matrix. In this paper, a more general case is concerned. Namely, an interface layer is assumed to exist between the fiber and the matrix. Explicit expression for the stress concentration factor with an imperfect fiber and matrix interface bonding is obtained. The effect of the interface layer on the stress concentration factor is discussed.
Dynamic analysis of delaminated composite conical shells under low velocity impact
Authors: Dey Sudip , Karmakar Amit
Published: November 2012

The dynamic response of graphite-epoxy delaminated cross-ply composite shallow conical shells subjected to low velocity normal impact is investigated using the finite element method. An eight-noded isoparametric plate bending element is employed in the formulation incorporating rotary inertia and effects of transverse shear deformation based on Mindlin’s theory. In the time integration, Newmark constant average acceleration method in conjunction with an efficient iteration scheme is used. The modified Hertzian contact law which accounts for permanent indentation is utilized to compute the time-dependent equations. Numerical results present the histories of contact force, deflection/thickness and impactor’s displacement for centrally impacted delaminated cross-ply composite cantilevered conical shells.
Using various techniques to characterize oxidative functionalized and aminosilanized carbon nanotubes for polyamide matrix
Authors: Sankal Secil , Kaynak Cevdet
Published: November 2012

The main purpose of this study was to reveal usability of various characterization techniques for certain aspects of surface functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Surfaces were first oxidative functionalized by sulphuric acid/nitric acid mixture, then aminosilanized by γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane. Chemical groups formed on carbon nanotubes due to these surface treatments were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and also energy dispersive spectroscopy. Morphological changes and crystal structure of surface-treated carbon nanotubes were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis was also used to observe thermal degradation of the chemical groups formed on the nanotube surfaces. In the second part of the study, Polyamide-6 nanocomposites were produced by using unmodified and surface functionalized carbon nanotubes. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that surface functionalization improves distribution of carbon nanotubes in the matrix, while flexural tests revealed that strength and modulus values could be increased as much as 30% and 40%, respectively, due to enhanced interfacial bonding between the matrix and nanotubes.
Modeling and prediction of tensile modulus and oxygen permeation properties of polyethylene – layered silicate nanocomposites: Factorial and mixture designs
Authors: Mittal Vikas
Published: November 2012

Modeling and prediction of the oxygen barrier and tensile modulus properties of polyethylene nanocomposites through factorial and mixture design methods has been studied. The factorial design was based on factors such as volume fraction of silicate filler, cation exchange capacity of the filler, and number of octadecyl chains in the chemical structure of the filler surface modification. The mixture design had components as polymer matrix, organic modification, and inorganic filler. The case of compatibilized polyethylene nanocomposites was also studied where the components included polymer, organically modified filler, and the compatibilizer. The generated models accurately predicted the properties of nanocomposites as the model equations were validated by the comparison of the predicted values with the experimental results. These models represent an accurate alternative to the conventional modeling methods where a number of assumptions hinder the true representation of the nanocomposite morphology in the model. Moreover, the factorial and mixture models are also straightforward to be modified in order to accommodate any changes in the system. The surface and contour plots could also be generated from the model equations, which pictorially represent the modeling space in which optimization of the nanocomposite properties can be achieved with higher confidence levels.
Organic-inorganic hybrid network constructed in polypropylene matrix and its reinforcing effects on polypropylene composites
Authors: Zhu Han , Du MingLiang , Xu CongSheng , Zhang XianMing , Fu YaQin
Published: November 2012

A facile approach was proposed to improve the mechanical properties of the polymer composites by organic-inorganic hybrid networks assembled via hydrogen bonding between halloysite nanotubes and organic hydrogen bonding coupler. Organic hydrogen bonding couplers were incorporated to the polypropylene composites and the hybrid networks were in situ constructed in the process of the fabricating of the composites. The investigations suggest that the formation of hybrid network can remarkably improve the mechanical properties of the composites, mainly including the tensile strength, flexural properties. In addition, the hydrogen bonds between organic hydrogen bonding coupler and halloysite nanotubes and the constructed organic-inorganic hybrid networks were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results show that the absorption of Si-O of the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra and the binding energy of the Si and Al atoms of the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra changed to some extent, indicating the existence of hydrogen bonds between organic hydrogen bonding coupler and halloysite nanotubes. Dynamic mechanical studies suggest the existence of the hybrid networks in the polypropylene matrix.
Correlation of temperature dependences of macro- and micro-interfacial properties in carbon fiber/epoxy resin composite
Authors: Liu HX , Gu YZ , Li M , Li YX , Zhang ZG
Published: November 2012

The short beam shear test and single fiber fragmentation test with an energy-based model were conducted to characterize the interfacial properties of two types of carbon fiber–reinforced epoxy resin composites. The temperature dependences of interlaminar shear strength and interfacial fracture energy ( Γi) from room temperature to 130°C were investigated. The correlation between interlaminar shear strength and the micro-interfacial property at elevated temperature was discussed. The scanning electron microscope images of fractographic cross-sections of the composite laminates were used to analyze the failure mode transition as the temperature rising. The results show that the interfacial properties of the two carbon fiber composites with the same matrix are obviously different, especially at high temperature. The changes of interlaminar shear strength and interfacial fracture energy are different at elevated temperature, mainly ascribed to the different treating ways of thermal residual stress and matrix property in the two methods. The similar temperature sensitivities in the changes of Γi and the amount of matrix adhering on carbon fibers in the short beam shear failure images suggest the variations of the micro-interfacial properties in the short beam test as increasing temperature.
Dynamic response and stability of basalt woven fabric composites under impulsive compression
Authors: Yan Jianhua , Gu Bohong , Sun Baozhong
Published: November 2012

A modeling method is presented for the impulsive compression response of basalt woven fabric composites. Difference equations are used to describe the mechanical properties of basalt woven fabric composites in this model. These equations are obtained by experimental curves, and the result indicates that this method is suitable to describe the behaviors of basalt woven fabric composites at various strain rates. The frequency response and stability of basalt woven fabric composites under quasi-static and high strain rate compression have been analyzed and discussed in z-transform domain. The result shows that the magnitude and phase responses are very different in quasi-static loading from that in the high strain rate one. The basalt woven fabric composite system gradually turns stable with increasing strain rate. The model successfully fitted the impact response of basalt woven fabric composites.
Examining Teachers’ Perceptions of Social-Emotional and Behavioral Referral Concerns
Authors: Briesch Amy M. , Ferguson Tyler D. , Volpe Robert J. , Briesch Jacquelyn M.
Published: November 2012

Although a number of empirical studies have investigated the nature of school-based referrals, predominant focus has been on referrals for psychoeducational evaluation, and social-emotional and behavioral concerns have typically been too broadly defined to provide insight into the specific problems encountered. This study aimed to identify the range of social-emotional and behavioral concerns for which teachers sought assistance from school-based intervention teams. Responses received from 154 classroom teachers nationwide indicated that defiance was the most common reason for referral, followed by inappropriate physical behavior, aggression, and social/relational problems. Referrals due to concerns with externalizing problems and attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-related behaviors were significantly more common at the elementary level, whereas those related to internalizing problems were more prevalent in secondary schools. The most common outcome was a request for formal assessment, followed closely by consultation with a specialist. Limitations of this study, as well as implications for educators, are discussed.
An Examination of Assessment Fidelity in the Administration and Interpretation of Reading Tests
Authors: Reed Deborah K. , Sturges Keith M.
Published: November 2012

Researchers have expressed concern about implementation fidelity in intervention research but have not extended that concern to assessment fidelity, or the extent to which pre-/posttests are administered and interpreted as intended. When studying reading interventions, data gathering heavily influences the identification of students, the curricular components delivered, and the interpretation of outcomes. However, information on assessment fidelity is rarely reported. This study examined the fidelity with which individuals paid to be testers for research purposes were directly observed administering and interpreting reading assessments for middle school students. Of 589 testing packets, 45 (8% of the total) had to be removed from the data set for significant abnormalities and another 484 (91% of the remaining packets) had correctable errors only found in double scoring. Results indicate reading assessments require extensive training, highly structured protocols, and ongoing calibration to produce reliable and valid results useful in applied research.
Antineuronal Antibodies and Infectious Pathogens in Severe Acute Pediatric Encephalitis
Authors: Lin Jainn-Jim , Lin Kuang-Lin , Chiu Cheng-Hsun , Hsia Shao-Hsuan , Wang Huei-Shyong , Chou I-Jun , Lin Yun-Tong ,   the CHEESE Study Group
Published: November 2012

The pathogenesis of acute encephalitis is divided into either direct infection or by immune-mediated inflammation, but the cause is still unknown. This retrospective study aimed to screen antineuronal antibodies in children with severe acute encephalitis. Thirty-four children (22 boys and 12 girls) underwent assessments such as antineuronal antibodies survey for autoimmune encephalitis and polymerase chain reaction/viral culture and antibody assays for all commonly recognized causes of infectious encephalitis. Sixteen (47.1%) were positive for autoantibodies, including antiglutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies in 16 and voltage-gated potassium channel complex antibodies in 1. Sixteen patients (47.1%) had presumed infectious etiologies, including 6 with influenza, 6 with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, 3 with enterovirus, and 1 with herpes simplex virus. In this study, influenza and Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection are the main presumed causes of severe acute encephalitis in children, although an immune-mediated mechanism may also play a role.
Pelizaeus-Merzbacher–Like Disease in a Family With Variable Phenotype and a Novel Splicing GJC2 Mutation
Authors: Al-Yahyaee Said Ali , Al-Kindi Mohammed , Jonghe Peter De , Al-Asmi Abdulah , Al-Futaisi Amna , Vriendt Els De , Deconinck Tine , Chand Pratap
Published: November 2012

Pelizaeus-Merzbacher–like disease is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by neonatal nystagmus, ataxia, progressive spasticity, and development delay and is rarely caused by GJC2 mutations. We report 7 patients from a large consanguineous family who had variable severity of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher–like disease. The 3 youngest of branch A were bedridden by their first year because of permanent scissoring of their legs and had severe frontal lobe epilepsy. The single patient from branch B was the least affected, being able to walk until 12 years of age and had no epilepsy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hypomyelination. The patients had a novel canonical splicing GJC2 c.-20+1G>C mutation with a predicted loss of the coding connexin 47 protein. The exceptionally large number of patients in this unique family enabled to describe the intrafamilial variability of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher–like disease. The predicted functional loss of connexin 47 might be associated with a severe form of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher–like disease.
Predictors of Epilepsy in Children With Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Morais Norma M. M. , Ranzan Josiane , Riesgo Rudimar S.
Published: November 2012

Post-stroke seizures and epilepsy in children are a common but understudied complication. In this retrospective cohort study, the medical records of 65 children aged 0 to 18 years were analyzed to assess the risk of post-stroke seizures, detect the prevalence of post-stroke epilepsy, and ascertain which risk factors are associated with this condition in children. Forty-two patients (64.6%) had epileptic seizures following stroke (35 early, 7 late-onset), with most (78.5%) occurring in the first 24 hours. Nineteen children (29.2%) developed post-stroke epilepsy, which was significantly more common among patients with late-onset seizures ( P = .034). There was a significant association between cortical involvement and development of epilepsy ( P = .01). After Poisson regression, the relative risk of epilepsy was calculated as 2.4 in children with late-onset post-stroke seizures (95% confidence interval, 1.4-3.9; P = .001) and 3.7 in children with cortical involvement (95% confidence interval, 1.4-9.7; P = .009).
Epilepsy Surgery for Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy (Ohtahara Syndrome)
Authors: Malik Saleem I. , Galliani Carlos A. , Hernandez Angel W. , Donahue David J.
Published: November 2012

Early infantile epileptic encephalopathy or Ohtahara syndrome is the earliest form of the age-dependent epileptic encephalopathies. Its manifestations include tonic spasms, focal motor seizures, suppression burst pattern, pharmaco-resistance, and dismal prognosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of epilepsy surgery in selected infants. We identified 11 patients, 9 from the literature and 2 from our institution that fulfilled diagnostic criteria of Ohtahara syndrome and had undergone epilepsy surgery in infancy. Seven of the 11 infants have remained seizure free (Engel class IA) and four are reportedly having rare to infrequent seizures (Engel class IIB). All patients experienced “catch up” development. In contrast to Ohtahara's15 pharmacotherapy managed patients, who had a mortality rate of approximately fifty percent, and those that survived continued to have seizures and were severely impaired, the outcome of selected surgically managed patients is much more favorable.
Current Practices of the Child Neurologist in Managing Sports Concussion
Authors: Broshek Donna K. , Samples Hillary , Beard Jennifer , Goodkin Howard P.
Published: November 2012

Given the 2010 position statement issued by the American Academy of Neurology that neurologists be consulted on return-to-play decisions following a concussion, we surveyed members of the Child Neurology Society to asses clinical practice management of concussion among child neurologists. Among the 239 respondents, the majority continued to rely on the American Academy of Neurology’s 1997 Practice Parameter to guide their decision-making process. Although the 2008 consensus statement from the Third International Conference on Concussion in Sport (Zurich Guidelines) is currently considered the most up-to-date guideline, few respondents relied exclusively on this guideline. More respondents who completed continuing medical education on concussion reported making clinical decisions based on the Zurich guidelines. The finding that child neurologists who completed continuing medical education had a greater familiarity with the more recently proposed consensus-based concussion guidelines supports the development of additional education in sports concussion at all levels of child neurology training.
Headaches in Children With Craniopharyngioma
Authors: Khan Raja B. , Merchant Thomas E. , Boop Frederick A. , Sanford Robert A. , Ledet Davonna , Onar-Thomas Arzu , Kun Larry E.
Published: November 2012

Craniopharyngioma frequently involves intracranial pain-sensitive structures. We retrospectively studied prevalence, associated risk factors, and outcome of headaches in children with craniopharyngioma. Fisher exact test and multivariate analysis were used to study association of study variables. Of the 51 craniopharyngioma patients treated at our institution from January 1994 to December 2005, 40 (78%) reported headaches (35 [68%] before tumor diagnosis). Migraine headaches were diagnosed in 32 (63%) and tension-type headaches in 11 patients (22%). The median follow-up period was 2.7 years. At the last follow-up, 38 (75%) were headache free. Presence of hydrocephalus, distortion of circle of Willis, and large tumor volume were associated with headache, and the last 2 variables were also associated with more severe and frequent headaches. Radiation treatment and insertion of Ommaya reservoir were associated with reduced headache frequency. In conclusion, headaches are common in patients with craniopharyngioma and are likely related to tumor size and volume. In most patients, headaches improve with successful tumor treatment.
Cognitive Trajectories in 4 Patients With Pediatric-Onset Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Marin Samantha E. , Banwell Brenda B. , Till Christine
Published: November 2012

Cognitive dysfunction is common in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis, but long-term data on cognitive maturation in these patients are sparse. We report the clinical features and cognitive trajectories in 4 pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis patients who were 10 years or younger at first attack and were followed between 1998 and 2010. Relapses in all 4 patients were frequent early in the disease and became infrequent or absent over time. Declines on neuropsychological testing were most pronounced on measures of processing speed, specifically visuomotor speed, and executive control requiring mental sequencing and set shifting, whereas global intellectual ability and phonemic fluency remained stable or improved over time. These case studies demonstrate a negative impact of multiple sclerosis on cognitive development in the long term and suggest that continued observation into adulthood is required to appreciate the vocational consequences of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis.
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Omata Taku , Fujii Katsunori , Tanabe Yuzo , Arai Hidee , Motojima Toshino
Published: November 2012

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis has an acute onset followed by improvement over several weeks. However, some cases require more time for a definitive diagnosis after protracted psychiatric or nonspecific symptoms. The authors investigated the time from onset to definitive diagnosis, subsequent course of treatment, and outcomes in 7 children with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis treated at the authors’ hospital. The mean duration of illness before definitive diagnosis was 20.7 days (range: 2-50 days). Steroid pulse therapy was performed in all cases, and rapid improvements were observed; the mean duration from treatment initiation to hospital discharge was 8.6 days (range: 4-14 days). None of the cases showed neurological sequelae. Although this study investigated a small number of patients, its results suggest that time to diagnosis is often longer in children than in adults, and even in cases of delayed treatment, response to steroid pulse therapy is good and outcomes may not necessarily be affected.
Health Care Needs of Children With Tourette Syndrome
Authors: Bitsko Rebecca H. , Danielson Melissa , King Michael , Visser Susanna N. , Scahill Lawrence , Perou Ruth
Published: November 2012

To document the impact of Tourette syndrome on the health care needs of children and access to health care among youth with Tourette syndrome, parent-reported data from the 2007-2008 National Survey of Children’s Health were analyzed. Children with Tourette syndrome had more co-occurring mental disorders than children with asthma or children without Tourette syndrome or asthma and had health care needs that were equal to or greater than children with asthma (no Tourette syndrome) or children with neither asthma nor Tourette syndrome. Health care needs were greatest among children with Tourette syndrome and co-occurring mental disorders, and these children were least likely to receive effective care coordination. Addressing co-occurring conditions may improve the health and well-being of children with Tourette syndrome. Strategies such as integration of behavioral health and primary care may be needed to improve care coordination.
Going Symbolic
Authors: Marion Nancy E. , Oliver Willard M.
Published: November 2012

Research into the American Presidents’ role in crime control policy has consistently found that they rely on symbolic rhetoric in their crime speeches. The research to date, however, has been confined to qualitative analysis and has not attempted to explain why presidents engage in symbolic rhetoric when it comes to crime policy. This study assesses presidential speeches related to crime from 1948 through 2010, and employs logistic regression to estimate the effects of the independent variables on the likelihood presidents will employ symbolic rhetoric. Findings suggest public opinion, presidential election year, party affiliation, and divided government, are significant factors in the likelihood presidents will engage in symbolic politics. The article concludes with a discussion of the study’s implication for the larger body of research on presidential crime rhetoric and the federal role in crime control.
Consent Searches as a Threat to Procedural Justice and Police Legitimacy
Authors: Gau Jacinta M.
Published: November 2012

Consent searches during traffic stops offer police a way to expediently check motorists’ vehicles for contraband. Asking drivers for consent to search their vehicles, however, may cause them to feel negatively about the encounter and, consequently, to question officers’ motives for pulling them over. The present study analyzes stopped motorists’ reactions to consent requests; specifically, consent requests are theorized to damage these individuals’ perceptions of procedural justice and, moreover, of the legitimacy of the stop itself. Logistic regression analyses of a nationally representative sample support these hypotheses. Policy implications include the need for judicious use of consent searches, as they appear to be a form of procedural injustice that erodes police legitimacy.
Educational Accountability and Policy Feedback
Authors: McDonnell Lorraine M.
Published: November 2012

Over the past 30 years, accountability policies have become more prominent in public K-12 education and have changed how teaching and learning are organized. It is less clear the extent to which these policies have altered the politics of education. This article begins to address that question through the lens of policy feedback. It identifies shifts in interest group coalitions and strategies as one of several elements of a new politics that has emerged in response to accountability policies, and it argues that the Common Core State Standards are a primary example of the feedback cycle influencing future policy.
The Australian Baby Boomer Population—Factors Influencing Changes to Health-Related Quality of Life Over Time
Authors: Buckley Jennifer , Tucker Graeme , Hugo Graeme , Wittert Gary , Adams Robert J. , Wilson David H.
Published: November 2012

Objectives: Identify factors associated with changes to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in baby boomers. Methods: Panel data were collected on baby boomers at two time points, 2000-2002 and 2004-2006. A fixed-effects model was used to identify associations between changes in the dependent variable (SF-36 summary scales) and changes in independent variables (health indicators/employment status). Results: Mental health problems, being out of labor force, sedentary behavior, and severe lung disease were associated with deterioration in physical and mental HRQoL. Obesity was associated with deterioration in physical HRQoL whereas cardiovascular disease was associated with deterioration in mental HRQoL. Unemployment, full-time employment, and absence of lung disease symptoms were associated with improvements in physical and mental HRQoL. Discussion: If we are to maximize the future labor participation, and HRQoL, of this cohort, it will be necessary to reduce obesity and sedentary behavior and to further investigate the association between health and employment.
A systematic approach for an accuracy level using rapid prototyping technologies
Authors: Relvas Carlos , Ramos António , Completo António , Simões José A
Published: November 2012

Nowadays there has emerged a series of rapid prototyping processes with great potential, and designers and engineers need to know the accuracy performance of these processes to compare and select the best solution. There is a significant lack of published data related to rapid prototyping processes and feature accuracy. This research was conducted to minimize this gap and provide much needed accuracy in terms of dimensional and geometric information. The methodology includes the summarization of previous studies and definition of a benchmarking part that is composed of elementary shapes representative of different features most likely to be found in a final product. The benchmarking part was controlled in terms of dimensional accuracy, geometric precision and freeform deviation. The sources of errors controlled by the final user were analysed, like Standard Tessellation Language (STL) file format resolution and build direction. Four custom rapid prototyping processes have been used and compared: stereolithography, selective laser sintering, fused deposition modelling and three-dimensional printer. Computer numerically controlled machining has been used as an alternative prototyping process in this study as a standard to compare costs and accuracy.

This work assessed measures that can be used to quantify the accuracy performance for a given part so that the choices for prototyping can be made based on scientific knowledge and best working practices. These results are very useful for designing products to be prototyped or manufactured through direct methods. The results can be used to improve the functionality of prototypes and the decision process through the best systematic approach.
Based on region division setup planning for sheet metal assembly in aviation industry
Authors: Liu Ping , Li Yuan , Zhang Kai-fu , Cheng Hui
Published: November 2012

The task of setup planning is to determine the number and sequence of setups and the machining features or operations in each setup. Due to the locating method’s character, the position of the locators may keep away joining tools from arriving at joining points during the joining process of sheet metal. In order to solve these problems, a novel method is proposed, which consists of three parts: (1) the points on the skin are divided into sets of supplied riveting and prior riveting points by convex hull generating method; (2) fixture vector is defined, and a suitable fixture region is generated by vector multiplication; and (3) the particle swarm optimization algorithm is applied to generate optimal setup scheme by setting up the parameters. The new setup planning approach can accomplish riveting work by minimum setup times and workpiece variation without finite element analysis software. At last, a certain kind of aircraft wing joining process is illustrated as an example to demonstrate the effect of the proposed approach.
Modelling and multi-objective optimization of process parameters of wire electrical discharge machining using non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II
Authors: Garg Mohinder P , Jain Ajai , Bhushan Gian
Published: November 2012

The present article is the first study on and identifies the different process parameters that affect the cutting speed and surface roughness in wire electric discharge machining of titanium 6-2-4-2. Box–Behnken designs are used to plan and analyse the experiments. Mathematical models are developed for cutting speed and surface roughness using regression technique and are utilized for simultaneous optimization of cutting speed and surface roughness. As the influence of process parameters on cutting speed and surface roughness is opposite, the problem is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem. Non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II is then applied to obtain Pareto optimal set of solutions. Confirmatory experiments indicate that the model is suitable for predicting the response parameters. These Pareto optimal sets of solutions can be used as guidelines by manufacturing engineers to select optimal combination of parameters depending upon the job requirements.
Effects of the design parameters on the synthesis of Geneva mechanisms
Authors: Figliolini Giorgio , Rea Pierluigi
Published: November 2012

A general algorithm for the kinematic synthesis of Geneva mechanisms with curved slots is introduced here, when a suitable displacement program is given with the aim of avoiding the typical shock-loading problems of conventional Geneva mechanisms. Moreover, the effects of the design parameters are analyzed through significant numerical examples. These parameters are: number of driving cranks; number of slots; imposed displacement program; and pin radius of the driving crank for the Geneva mechanism.
Application of grey relational analysis in high-speed machining of hardened AISI D6 steel
Authors: Kacal Alaattin , Yıldırım Ferhat
Published: November 2012

This study reports an optimization of finish turning of hardened AISI D6 (60 HRC) cold work tool steel with ceramic and cubic boron nitride cutting tools using grey relational analysis. Optimization of the process parameters was performed using quality characteristics, i.e. tool wear, surface roughness, machining force and specific cutting force. Analysis of variance was used for observing the most influencing machining parameters on the quality characteristics. Evaluation of tool wear type and wear mechanism was done by tool makers’ microscope and scanning electron microscope analysis. The optimal process parameters were calculated using grey relation grade and confirmation test was performed. Based on analysis of variance results, the feed rate is the most significant controllable machining factor for the finish hard turning of AISI D6 according to the quality characteristics. Flank and crater wears were the prominent wear types on the ceramic and cubic boron nitride inserts. Grey relational analysis was successfully applied on optimization of high-speed finish hard turning of hardened AISI D6 using multi-performance characteristics.
Prediction and enhancement of the acoustic performance of a spark ignition engine intake air filter box
Authors: Siano Daniela , Costa Michela , Bozza Fabio
Published: November 2012

The present work has resulted in the development of numerical and experimental methodologies for prediction of the acoustic performance of an air filter box of an internal-combustion engine for automotive applications. With the aim of characterizing its fluid-dynamic behaviour and acoustic attenuation, the latter is first analysed as an isolated component. Typical performance parameters such as the discharge coefficient CD, the pressure losses, the noise reduction and the transmission loss are experimentally and numerically evaluated. Different numerical approaches are considered, including complete three-dimensional computational fluid-dynamics analyses and finite element–boundary element procedures. The latter also take into account the interaction with the vibrating structure. The preliminary air-box design is also modified through the introduction of a column resonator and a Helmholtz resonator. Both the base and the modified system are finally coupled to the whole engine to estimate the gas-dynamic noise emitted by the intake system. The new architectural solutions of the intake system are characterized by improved acoustic performances and also preserve a good power output of the entire engine system. In each case the comparisons with experimental findings showed good correlation with the numerical predictions.
Effects of sawing parameters on natural stone processing performance
Authors: Bayram Fatih , Yasitli Nazmi Erhan
Published: November 2012

Circular sawing is a very flexible method used in natural stone processing. This method can be used in all sawing stages, such as tile production, cutting the slabs to size, shaping of cubic pieces, etc. Due to this feature, it is the preferred tool for stone processing. Thus, the investigation of sawing parameters affected on circular sawing performance is necessary. In this study, the effects of some sawing parameters (diamond concentration in segment, sawing depth, and saw blade diameter) on sawing performance (unit wear and unit energy) were investigated through the use of computer-assisted automatic circular sawing machine. Real marble samples, commercially named Afyon Violet, were used in the experiments. It was determined graphically that diamond concentration in segment, sawing depth, and saw blade diameter were very effective on unit wear and unit energy. The statistical analyses were also conducted to determine the effects of sawing parameters on unit wear and unit energy. Consequently, stone processors must take into consideration these sawing parameters in order to achieve more economical production.
Closed-form formulation for torsional analysis of beams with open or closed cross sections having a crack
Authors: Shirazi Amir Abbas Rastegar Haghighi , Hematiyan Mohammad Rahim
Published: November 2012

In this article, a semi-analytical approach is used to formulate the torsional analysis of beams having a crack. The formulation is based on analytical and accurate numerical analyses. The cross section is decomposed into several segments, including straight and curved segments with or without a crack. A dimensionless formulation is introduced and used to analyze the problem. The cracked segments are analyzed using the finite element method. The other segments are analytically formulated. The crack is supposed to be perpendicular to the boundary and located in the inner or outer surface of the beam. The thickness of the cross section is assumed to be uniform. Some numerical results are provided to show the accuracy of the presented method.
Characteristics of Students With High-Incidence Disabilities Broadly Defined
Authors: Gage Nicholas A. , Lierheimer Kristin S. , Goran Lisa G.
Published: November 2012

Students with high-incidence disabilities are the most prevalent among children and youth with disabilities in U.S. schools. This group typically includes students with emotional and/or behavioral disorders (E/BD), learning disabilities (LD), and mild intellectual disability (MID). However, students with other disabilities, including high-functioning autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and speech and language impairment are now being identified at higher rates and occupy an aggregate “other” category within high-incidence disabilities. Yet, little research has examined similarities between students identified in the traditional high-incidence group (emotional disorder, LD, MID) and students in the growing “other” category. This study was designed to examine similarities and differences between students with high-incidence disabilities broadly defined. Using an extant database, cognitive ability, academic performance, and behavioral performances were examined across disability categories. Findings indicate that, other than for students with E/BD on behavior, very few differences were evident. Policy implications are forwarded to facilitate discussion of inclusion and intervention practices for high-incidence disabilities broadly defined.
Prognostic Value of Red Cell Distribution Width in Patients With Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Ozsu Savas , Abul Yasin , Gunaydin Selda , Orem Asim , Ozlu Tevfik
Published: November 2012

Elevated red blood cell distribution width (RDW) has been associated with adverse outcomes of heart failure and pulmonary hypertension. A total of 702 consecutive patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE) were evaluated. There was a graded increase in mortality rate with RDW quartiles of 5.8% in quartile I (≤13.6), 9.7% in quartile II (13.7%-14.5%), 13.1% in quartile III (14.6%-16.3%), and 20% in quartile IV (>16.3%; P < .001). Patients who died had higher baseline RDW values (16.1% [11.7-28.3] vs 14.5% [10.7-32.5]; P < .001). The optimal cutoff value of RDW for predicting in-hospital mortality was ≥15%. The area under the curve of mortality for RDW was 0.649 (confidence interval [CI]: 0.584-0.715); the negative predictive value was 93%. In multivariable regression analysis, RDW remained associated with an increased odds of death (odds ratio: 1.2, 95% CI: 1.1-1.4). High RDW level was an independent predictor of short-term mortality in PE. The RDW levels may provide a potential marker to predict outcome in patients with PE.
Predictive Value of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio in Clinical Outcomes of Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Unstable Angina Pectoris
Authors: Gul Mehmet , Uyarel Huseyin , Ergelen Mehmet , Ugur Murat , Isık Turgay , Ayhan Erkan , Turkkan Ceyhan , Aksu Hale Unal , Akgul Ozgur , Uslu Nevzat
Published: November 2012

We sought to determine the prognostic value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and unstable angina pectoris (UAP). A total of 308 (mean age 59.22 ± 11.93) patients with NSTEMI and UAP were prospectively evaluated. The study population was divided into tertiles based on admission NLR values. The patients were followed for clinical outcomes for up to 3 years after discharge. In the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, 3-year mortality was 21.6% in patients with high NLR versus 3% in the low-NLR group ( P < .001). In a receiver–operating characteristic curve analysis, an NLR value of 3.04 was identified as an effective cut point in NSTEMI and UAP of a 3-year cardiovascular mortality (area under curve [AUC] = 0.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.8-0.92). An NLR value >3.04 yielded a sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 71%. Admission NLR is the strong and independent predictor of a 3-year cardiovascular mortality in patients with NSTEMI and UAP.
Evaluation of antioxidant, rheological, physical and sensorial properties of wheat flour dough and cake containing turmeric powder
Authors: Park SH , Lim HS , Hwang SY
Published: November 2012

The effects of addition of turmeric powder (0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8%) were examined in order to obtain an antioxidant-enriched cake with good physico-chemical and sensorial properties. The rheological properties of doughs were evaluated using dynamic rheological measurements. Physical properties, curcumin content, radical scavenging activity (RSA-DPPH assay) and sensory analysis (hedonic test) of the supplemented cake were determined. Addition of turmeric powder up to 8% caused significant changes on dough characteristics and on cake rheological properties. The highest curcumin (203 mg/kg) and RSA-DPPH activity (45%) were achieved in the cake having the highest percentage of turmeric powder (8%); however, this sample showed the worst results regarding the rheological properties. Moreover, by sensory evaluation this cake sample was not acceptable. A 6% substitution of wheat flour with turmeric powder showed acceptable sensory scores which were comparable to those of 0–4% turmeric cakes. This indicated that up to 6% level of turmeric powder might be included in cake formulation.
The Influence of Criminal History on the Likelihood of Committing Lethal Versus Nonlethal Violence
Authors: Ganpat Soenita M. , Liem Marieke , van der Leun Joanne , Nieuwbeerta Paul
Published: November 2012

This study focuses on the criminal history of serious violent offenders. Our aim is to determine: (a) to what extent the criminal history of lethally violent offenders differs from nonlethally violent offenders and (b) to what extent one’s criminal history influences the likelihood that violence ends lethally. We use criminal record data of offenders convicted of lethal violence (i.e., homicide offenders, N = 2,049) and offenders convicted of nonlethal violence (i.e., attempted homicide offenders, N = 3,387). The results suggest that nonlethally violent offenders have a more severe criminal history and that offender’s criminal history can be influential in predicting lethal versus nonlethal outcomes.
Pitch discrimination and melodic memory in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Stanutz Sandy , Wapnick Joel , Burack Jacob A
Published: November 2012

Background:

Pitch perception is enhanced among persons with autism. We extended this finding to memory for pitch and melody among school-aged children.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate pitch memory in musically untrained children with autism spectrum disorders, aged 7–13 years, and to compare it to that of age- and IQ-matched typically developing children.

Methods:

The children were required to discriminate isolated tones in two differing contexts as well to remember melodies after a period of 1 week. The tasks were designed to employ both short- and long-term memory for music. For the pitch discrimination task, the children first had to indicate whether two isolated tones were the same or different when the second was the same or had been altered to be 25, 35, or 45 cents sharp or flat. Second, the children discriminated the tones within the context of melody. They were asked whether two melodies were the same or different when the leading tone of the second melody was the same or had been altered to be 25, 35, or 45 cents sharp or flat. Long-term memory for melody was also investigated, as the children attempted to recall four different two-bar melodies after 1 week.

Results:

The children with autism spectrum disorders demonstrated elevated pitch discrimination ability in the single-tone and melodic context as well as superior long-term memory for melody. Pitch memory correlated positively with scores on measures of nonverbal fluid reasoning ability.

Conclusion:

Superior short- and long-term pitch memory was found among children with autism spectrum disorders. The results indicate an aspect to cognitive functioning that may predict both enhanced nonverbal reasoning ability and atypical language development.