bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nuclear Method for Analysis of Sulfur in Hydrocarbons
Authors: Manov GG , Beaufait LJ
Published: March 2009

The use of radioisotopes as a basis for radiophysical instrumental methods of analysis can be exemplified by the following: Iron-55 emits a K-capture electron from the nucleus whose radiation can be absorbed by a sulfur atom regardless of its chemical combination. A practical procedure is described for the measurement of sulfur in all forms (SO2, SO3, S2O3, RSH, R2S, RSSR, etc.) by using an uncalibrated source of iron-55, a sample holder, a suitable absorption cell, and an appropriate detecting instrument. The method for analytical determination of sulfur in hydrocarbons is very fast compared to the standard lamp or bomb used in present ASTM methods. The equipment has been built and operated. A method has been prepared for proposal.
Radioisotope Methods of Testing Uniformity of Coated Fabrics
Authors: Foster GB , Chope HR
Published: March 2009

The leading producers of coated fabrics were among the first to see the many advantages of beta-emitting radioisotope measurement and control of coating weight and thickness. As early as 1950, tire manufacturers began using nondestructive, noncontacting radiation weight or thickness gages employing beta-emitting radioisotopes, commonly referred to in industry as beta gages. Today, for example, all tire producers in this country control rubber coating of tire fabric with these beta-emitting radiosotope measuring systems. The same may be said for practically all producers of plastic-coated automobile upholstery. Many coaters of other types of fabrics have also adopted this relatively new technique because of its many advantages. These techniques have also been utilized in the unsupported film industry.
Wind and Weather Summaries for Chemical Plant Design and Air Pollution Control
Authors: Moore RJ , Boscia TD , Lundeen RW
Published: March 2009

A rather modest weather observation installation has furnished data useful for a variety of purposes. The use of recording-type weather instruments and of accounting machines to tabulate and analyze the data has minimized manpower requirements. Single station wind and weather summaries for Pittsburg, Calif., are presented to demonstrate the phenomena associated with “low ventilation” atmospheric conditions. “Low ventilation” conditions are related to the buildup of air contaminants in the lower atmosphere.
Fluorescent Dyes as Airborne Tracer Materials
Authors: Wohliers HC , Kass TE , Johnson KR
Published: March 2009

Preparatory to a field program designed to trace an airborne industrial effluent, the costs of three major tracer methods were evaluated in order to choose the most economical method for the problem. Subsequent to this evaluation, the characteristics of two tracer dyes were investigated prior to the experimental program. These developments are described here.
The Colorimetric Determination of Formaldehyde and Methanol from Combustion Sources
Authors: Feldstein M
Published: March 2009

Formaldehyde and methanol are formed to a greater or lesser extent during the combustion of organic materials. A method is proposed for the colorimetric determination of these substances, based on the reaction with chromotropic acid. Formaldehyde is determined directly, methanol after oxidation to formaldehyde.
Determination of Gaseous and Particulate Inorganic Fluorides in the Atmosphere
Authors: Pack MR , Hill AC , Thomas MD , Transtrum LG
Published: March 2009

The concentration of inorganic fluorides in the atmosphere has become a matter of concern in certain agricultural and urban areas. Atmospheric fluorides are readily accumulated by vegetation, where they may be injurious to sensitive plants or have a deleterious effect on livestock that consume the vegetation. Obviously, reliable methods of determining atmospheric fluorides are valuable for making an evaluation of the seriousness and extent of any fluoride air pollution problem.
Norwegian Test Methods for Rain Penetration through Masonry Walls
Authors: Birkeland Ø , Svendsen SD
Published: March 2009

The Norwegian Building Research Inst. has developed methods for laboratory testing ot masonry walls, in which wall panels are exposed to artificial rain and a pressure difference. Laboratory results have been compared with results from test houses and field experience to determine the validity of the laboratory results.
Dimensional Changes of Masonry in Relation to Soundness of Bricks and Mortars
Authors: Ritchie T
Published: March 2009

Cracking of masonry walls is a common problem that reveals the effects of differential movements of the walls of a building or parts of a wall, as well as the effects of differential movements of walls and other components. Cracks may affect the structural stability of walls and the appearance of the building and may also affect the durability of the masonry by allowing excessive penetration of moisture into the wall.
Factors Affecting Bond of Mortar to Brick
Authors: Kampf L
Published: March 2009

The ability to bond brick to make a waterproof and structurally sound wall is the most important property of a masonry mortar. All other properties are incidental. If the bond is poor, seepage through the wall will necessitate waterproofing. The outside of the wall will be covered with efflorescence; on the inside, wall paint will peel and plaster will disintegrate.
Structural and Lean Mass Concrete as Affected by Water-Reducing, Set-Retarding Agents
Authors: Wallace GB , Ore EL
Published: March 2009

Several commercial water-reducing, set-retarding agents of the lignin and hydroxylated carboxylic acid classes are explored as to their effect on mix design and on the many properties of fresh and hardened concrete. Their benefits and limitations are explained so that the agents may be intelligently and confidently utilized. Methodology consisted of comparing various concretes containing water-reducing retarding agents with similar concretes without agent. Results of several hundred laboratory and field tests conducted over the past 5 years show that optimum dosages of many agents on the market today will increase the compressive, tensile, and shearing strength of mass and structural concrete and improve its resistance to freezing and thawing and sulfate-induced expansive forces. The principal contribution of water-reducing retarding agents toward improved workability is through their ability to extend the length of time in which concrete can be consolidated by vibration and thus reduce the risk of obtaining cold joints. They do not, however, improve the ease of handling concrete as gaged by the slump test, and in a few cases will increase the rate of slump loss. Volume change due to wetting and drying, and permeability of mass concrete are not affected by water-reducing retarding agents in amounts sufficient to warrant changes in design and construction considerations. However, reduced temperature rise and savings in cooling mass concrete may be achieved as a result of lower cement requirement attendant to their use.
Field Experience Using Water-Reducers in Ready-Mixed Concrete
Authors: Howard EL , Griffiths KK , Moulton WE
Published: March 2009

This paper covers the use of water-reducing admixtures in the design and production of ready-mixed concrete. Specification requirements are evaluated against actual on-job problems. Disadvantages in control of uniformity and some advantages that accrue in summertime use are outlined. Producers who use more than one brand of cement are in some difficulty, and data illustrating this fact are presented. Some dangers inherent in reducing cement content are highlighted with test data of on-job sampled specimens.
Recent Developments in Gamma Ray Dosimetry
Authors: Taimuty SI
Published: March 2009

During the last few years there has been considerable activity in the field of high level gamma ray dosimetry. New dosimetric methods have been developed, and experience has been gained in the use of older methods. However the field is still characterized by a multiplicity of methods and approaches. It seems appropriate, therefore, to review recent developments and assess the present status of gamma ray dosimetry.

Among the recent developments discussed in this paper are experimental evaluations of a large number of integrating (total dose) dosimeters; improvements in the cerie sulfate and anthracene (luminescence degradation) dosimeters; new plastic, glass, and luminescence dosimeters; and recent developments in dose rate measurements with ionization chambers, calorimetry, and semiconductor radiation detectors.

In summary, good liquid dosimeters are available for total dose measurements in the range 104 to 108 rads, and usable solid dosimeters exist for the range 104 to 5 × 109 rads. However, better solid dosimeters are still needed. In addition, satisfactory ionization methods are available for high dose rate measurements, and a recently announced graphite sphere calorimeter shows considerable promise as a primary standard for absorbed dose measurements.
Techniques for Measuring Reactor Neutron Spectra
Authors: Trice JB
Published: March 2009

Several methods for measuring neutron flux and neutron energy spectra in and around reactors are discussed, including proton recoil spectroscopy, crystal spectroscopy using thallium activated lithium iodide, photographic plates and emulsions, and activation analyses. For irradiation tests in high flux intensity reactors where space is severely limited and gamma intensity is high, activation analysis appears to offer the best means for determination of the irradiation test flux environment. Techniques of activation analysis are reviewed under the subjects of thermal flux monitors, fission detectors for both thermal and high-energy neutrons, charged particle neutron-proton and neutron-alpha reactions, neutron-neutron (n, n1 and n, 2n) reactions, and resonance reactions. Practical methods are presented for optimum use of these reactions in obtaining the required information concerning the test environment. Instrumentation available is reviewed and advantages and disadvantages are assessed.

Five methods of analyses of activation data are briefly described that range from the simplest calculations required for minimum information to the most complex methods that, with the aid of high-speed electronic computing machines, reproduce incident spectra with high-energy resolution. Finally procedures are recommended for tailoring the requirements of the experiment to the experimental and analytical methods available.
Standardization of Terminology for Gamma and Electron Beam Radiation Sources
Authors: Danald GE
Published: March 2009

Over five years' experience in utilizing nearly 20 different sources of gamma ray and electron beam radiation sources have indicated a critical need for some degree of uniformity on the part of the source owner or operator in specifying the performance of the source, his methods of measuring its field or beam, and the manner of charging customers for its use.

This paper recommends standards of dose delivered, specifications of the field or beam, and a set of experimental or environmental conditions which the vendor should make known to a prospective user of a radiation source. This is to be given in terminology which is uniform from source to source, thus enabling a user to select a source best suited to his specific needs.
Irradiation of Some Pressure-Vessel Steels
Authors: Trudeau LP
Published: March 2009

This paper summarizes the results obtained to date in a study of the neutron irradiation behavior of a number of pressure-vessel steels of present and possible future interest. The work was started two years ago in cooperation with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, and all irradiations have been carried out in the NRX reactor at Chalk River, Ont. The size of the irradiation sample container dictated that subsize impact and tension specimens be used. Also, irradiation temperatures in only the range 120 to 160 F were available. Accepting these limitations, it was thought that a survey of the irradiation-induced changes in properties of several pressure-vessel steels would aid in the search for ferritic steels of enhanced radiation resistance. Also, it was thought that the results might have some applicability for rating the steels in the proper order of radiation resistance for higher temperatures of operation.
Neutron Radiation Embrittlement at 500 and 650 F of Reactor Pressurf Vessel Steels
Authors: Alger JV , Skupien LM
Published: March 2009

The effect of neutron radiation on the impact and tensile properties of ASTM A 302 grade B, SA-336, and HY-65 high-strength pressure vessel steels, and weld metal deposited with types E9016 and E10016 electrodes were studied. Standard size Charpy V-notch and subsize tensile specimens of these materials were irradiated at a reference temperature of 500 F in a dry air atmosphere to an integrated flux of between 2 × 1018 nvt and 3 × 1018 nvt (>0.4 ev) at Brookhaven National Laboratory. HY-65 steel specimens were also irradiated to the same integrated dose at 650 F. Several heat, treatment conditions were represented in the A 302 grade B and HY-65 materials. Control specimens were heated for an equal time at the temperatures of the irradiated materials. Brittle to ductile impact transition curves and tensile values were determined lor both the controls and irradiated specimens. The materials irradiated at 500 F were appreciably embrittled. Embrittlement did not occur in HY-65 specimens irradiated at 650 F. Tensile strength and tensile ductility were not, or only slightly, affected in all cases.
Dynamic Radiation Effects Testing Methods
Authors: Newell DM , Kerlin EE , Bauerlein RR , Barrows RF
Published: March 2009

Studies of radiation effects on polymers being conducted at the Convair-Fort Worth Nuclear Facility include engineering tests and fundamental research. The engineering tests are divided into two broad categories, dynamic and static.

While both static and dynamic tests are necessary, dynamic tests give results which provide a better basis for the interpretation of changes with respect to the application of the material. Dynamic tests also supply valuable data in the support of lundamental research and development of new materials. However, some electrical problems arise when dynamic tests are conducted in a reactor field. The radiation field can cause errors in electrical signals through either temporary electrical effects or permanent radiation damage to the test apparatus. The dynamic test assembly must be designed to avoid these problems or minimize the errors.

The three dynamic tests described in this report were designed for the determination of (1) stress relaxation of rubber, (2) the modulus of rigidity of honeycomb sandwich panels by the plate shear method, and (3) the dynamic modulus of elasticity ol rigid plastics by the resonance method. Some of the theory, a description ol the lest gear, and an interpretation of the results of tests performed thus far are presented.
The Significance to ASTM of Postirradiation Effects in Irradiated Materials
Authors: Ballantine DS
Published: March 2009

One of the prime objectives of ASTM is the writing of approved methods for testing the properties of materials and the specification of standards to which materials must conform. The natural assumption is that at the time of testing the material under test is in a state of equilibrium, at least as far as its intrinsic chemical activity is concerned. Certain physical changes may occur due to crystallization or other time-dependent physical processes; it is also well known that properties can change due to environmental factors. The purpose of this paper is to keynote a potential future problem of ASTM in writing the standards and specifications for organic materials which will have in their preparation or pretesting history a step involving exposure to ionizing radiation. This problem arises from the now well-known fact that many organic materials contain, after irradiation, chemically reactive species which have, in many it may be helpful to review some fundamental radiation chemistry and describe some of the findings of workers in this field.
Electron Spin Resonance Studies of Free Radicals in Irradiated Materials
Authors: Wall LA
Published: March 2009

Trapped free radicals are very often responsible for postirradiation effects. Such effects are, for example, thermal luminescence, bleaching, sensitivity to oxidation, depoly merization, crosslinking, and degradation. The identification and measurement of tree radicals produced by irradiation can most readily be carried out by making use ot electron spin resonance (ESR). In general, the detection of simple atoms requires operation at low temperature, often as low as 4.2 K, that is, at liquid helium temperatures. At such temperatures, atoms of hydrogen, deuterium, and nitrogen and also alkyl radicals have been found by ESR methods. On the other hand, quite high concentrations of polymer radicals with long lifetimes are found at room temperature. While the interpretation of the ESR spectra for simple atoms is relatively simple, that of the more complex polymer radicals is much more complicated. In polvmeric systems, steric elfects and hindrance of rotation about bonds influence the various interactions to such an extent that comparisons with model compounds of low molecular size are of little value in establishing radical structures. With all polymeric systems studied thus far, full understanding and interpretation of the ESR spectra and their behavior with temperature have not yet been achieved. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of the chemical changes induced by radiation, as well as the influence of the polymeric environment on the radical species and their ESR spectra, are gradually being clarified. Studies such as those reported here on polystyrenes and fluorocarbon polymers have greatly aided in understanding the chemical basis lor physical changes in polymers.
Design and Application of the Nuclear-Chicago D/M-Gauge
Authors: Neville OK , Van Zelst TW
Published: March 2009

In 1932, Sir James Chadwick discovered that when alpha particles were allowed to fall upon a piece of beryllium in contact with a block of paraffin, protons could be detected at the surface of the paraffin block. They were not detectable when the paraffin was removed. Chadwick deduced that neutral particles were formed by the alpha reaction on beryllium which were able to eject protons from the paraffin block by collision. This particle he called the neutron. Thus the interaction and moderation of neutrons by hydrogen atoms was inherent in the discovery of the neutron itself.
Experiences with Nuclear Moisture and Density Surface Probes on O'hare Field Project
Authors: Gnaedinger JP
Published: March 2009

Soil and foundation engineers have for many years needed a technique for accurate and rapid determination of the moisture content and density of compacted fills. Delays in completion of the earthwork while the results of density and moisture measurements are being determined are a very real cost to contractors and owners. For these reasons developments by the Civil Aeronautics Administration, Cornell University and others in the measurement of soil moisture and density by the nuclear method have been of particular interest.

In the hope that instruments utilizing the nuclear method might expedite performance of numerous field moisture and density determinations on the O'Hare Field project in Chicago, one of the instruments manufactured by Nuclear Chicago Corp. has been used since August 1059. This paper describes some of the author's experiences with this equipment, including correlation data with the conventional sand cone method.

Initial correlation work between nuclear measurements of soil density and moisture indicated extremely poor results, with nuclear instruments consistently giving low readings for water contents, and giving errors as high as 17 lb per cu ft, referred to the sand cone densities. Subsequent work, however, has indicated that, by using calibration curves for moisture content and density which are prepared specifically for the soil types involved, the errors in moisture content can be reduced to approximately 2 per cent or less. By using revised calibration curves for the density measurements for the soil types involved, the nuclear instruments can be expected to give moist densities within approximately 5 lb of the densities obtained by the sand cone method.
Supplement to Manual on Water
Authors: Hamilton CE
Published: March 2009

Description

ASTM Committee D-19 on Water is continually updating not only the Standards presented in the current Book of Standards but also the general discussion that should illuminate these prescribed procedures for those who look to the Society for aid and technical guidance. Hence, this supplement to the ASTM Manual on Water.
A Manual on Methods for Retrieving and Correlating Technical Data
Authors: Dyke FH
Published: March 2009

Description

This manual helps to select the proper combination of systems to produce and disseminate data and data indexes. Covers input, storage and retrieval including computers, optical coincidence, punched and edge notch card, and microforms.
Applications of Electron Microfractography to Materials Research
Authors: Wiebe W
Published: March 2009

Description

The Symposium on Applications of Electron Microfractography to Materials Research was given at the Seventy-third Annual Meeting of the American Society for Testing and Materials held in Toronto, Ont., Canada, 21—26 June 1970. The Sponsor of this symposium was ASTM Subcommittee II on Fractography and Associated Microstructures of ASTM Committee E24 on Fracture Testing of Metals. W. Wiebe, National Research Council of Canada, presided as symposium chairman.
Metal Fatigue Damage: Mechanism, Detection, Avoidance, and Repair
Authors: Manson SS
Published: March 2009

Description

The work presented in the publication Metal Fatigue Damage—Mechanism, Detection, Avoidance, and Repair was sponsored by the ASTM-ASME Joint Committee on the Effect of Temperature on the Properties of Metals and financed by The Metal Properties Council. The Applied Research Panel under the Chairmanship of M. Semchyshen and the Gas Turbine Panel Chaired by G. J. Wile, cooperated in this project. Mr. S. S. Manson, who headed the Task Group under the Applied Research Panel, was responsible for the coordination of the papers presented in this publication.
Paint Testing Manual
Authors: Sward GG
Published: March 2009

Description

The most complete manual of its type ever published. Eleven parts cover optical, physical, mechanical, and chemical properties; weather, film and whole paint testing, raw materials, specific products, instrumentation and specifications.
Electron Beam Microanalysis
Authors: Beaman DR , Isasi JA
Published: March 2009

Description

In recent years the development of new scientific instruments and techniques has made microanalysis an essential and powerful tool for the materials scientist. The ability to chemically characterize small, included particles or second-phase materials down to one micrometer (1 µm) in diameter and to determine the nature of surfaces with a depth resolution below 100A has led to the solution of serious materials problems and the development of new products and processes. This article, which is a review of the many techniques available, illustrates how the various techniques are related, when they can be most appropriately used and when they can be successfully combined in a single instrument. Such a review should: 1) aid the materials scientist in selecting the proper technique and instrument for his particular problem; 2) guide the novice in his initial efforts in the field of microanalysis; and 3) provide the expert with a critical review and state-of-the-art description of the field. Particular emphasis is placed on the quantitative capabilities of the various techniques so that the reader may obtain a full understanding of the capabilities and limitations of each. The problems associated with accuracy and precision in electron beam microanalysis are discussed so the investigator or user will be aware of potential problems. The following instruments and techniques or combinations thereof are discussed: electron probe analyzer, transmission electron microscope, scanning electron microscope, Auger electron spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer, ion mass analyzer, automated instruments and quantitative metallography. Finally applications in many disciplines are presented to illustrate the vast potential of the techniques.
Fracture Toughness: Part II
Authors: Corten HT
Published: March 2009

Description

Proceedings of the 1971 National Symposium on Fracture Mechanics—Part II contains 10 papers on methods of measurement of toughness of high toughness metals; also reported are several new methods and their relationships.
A Guide to the Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials Accidents
Authors: Committee F-20
Published: March 2009

Description

In emergency situations the hazard classification system of the Department of Transportation is useful, familiar, and available on the scene. This document is arranged by Department of Transportation Hazard Class and shipment volume. Within some classes, a distinction is made between bulk and package shipments. Bulk shipments are those that equal or exceed 110 gallons liquid (415 liters) or 1000 pounds dry (450 kilograms) measure, such as tank car or tank truck. Package shipments are those that are less than 110 gallons liquid or 1000 pounds dry measure per package.
A new optical elasticity resin for mobile LCD modules
Authors: Shinya Yoshihisa , Kamiya Kenji , Toyoda Tomoyuki , Endo Yasumi , Soudakova Nelly , Kondo Hirofumi
Published: March 2009

Abstract— The display used in current cell phones has an air gap between the cover glass and the liquid‐crystal‐display (LCD) module to prevent the LCD glass from being damaged. Reflections at the boundaries of the air gap cause a reduction in the LCD luminance and contrast. To address this problem, a newly proposed LCD structure has been investigated. The “Super View Resin (SVR),” a transparent elastic resin which improves the shock resistance and visibility of the LCD, has been developed. Filling the air gap between the cover glass and LCD module with a refractive‐index‐matching resin solves the light‐reflection problem inherent in the use of a reinforced cover‐glass lens. Moreover, the elastic filler works as a damper, reducing any external shock, which prevents not only the cover glass and LCD module from being damaged, but also the glass from being shattered when it is broken.
Multi‐viewer autostereoscopic display with dynamically addressable holographic backlight
Authors: Buckley Edward , Corbett Alex , Surman Phil , Sexton Ian , Hopf Klaus , Neumann Frank
Published: March 2009

Abstract—The Multi‐User 3‐D Television Display (MUTED), designed to provide three‐dimensional television (3‐D TV) by the display of autostereoscopic imagery to multiple viewers, each of whom should enjoy freedom of movement, is described. Such an autostereoscopic display system, which allows multiple viewers simultaneously by the use of head tracking, was previously demonstrated for TV applications in the ATTEST project. However, the requirement for a dynamically addressable, steerable backlight presented several problems for the illumination source. The MUTED system demonstrates significant advances in the realization of a multi‐user autostereoscopic display, partly due to the provision of a dynamic backlight employing a novel holographic laser projector. Such a technology provides significant advantages in terms of brightness, efficiency, laser speckle, and the ability to correct for optical aberrations compared to both imaging and scanned‐beam projection technologies.
High‐luminance 1.8‐mm‐pixel‐pitch CNT‐FED for ubiquitous color character displays
Authors: Yotani Junko , Uemura Sashiro , Nagasako Takeshi , Kurachi Hiroyuki , Nakao Takehiro , Ito Masaaki , Sakurai Akira , Shimoda Hideo , Ezaki Tomotaka , Fukuda Kazuhiko , Saito Yahachi
Published: March 2009

Abstract— A high‐luminance 1.8‐mm‐pixel‐pitch CNT‐FED for color character displays has been developed. The display panel has 32 × 256 color pixels, and the subpixel size is 0.6 × 1.8 mm. The display panel can provide good visibility when installed even in outdoor locations. The power consumption is low enough for the display to be battery driven. The practical application is the display of important messages regarding the evacuation from disaster areas, even under emergent no‐power conditions similar to the messages on vending machines.
Bistable FLCOS devices for doubled‐brightness micro‐projectors
Authors: O'Callaghan Michael J. , Ferguson Rachel , Vohra Rohini , Thurmes William , Harant Adam W. , Pecinovsky Cory S. , Zhang Yongqiang , Yang Su , O'Neill Matt , Handschy Mark A.
Published: March 2009

Abstract— Optical output is of paramount importance to emerging ultra‐miniature projector products. Experimental bistable ferroelectric liquid‐crystal‐on‐silicon (FLCOS) projection microdisplay devices using newly developed FLC materials aligned on obliquely deposited SiO2 have been developed. These devices enable the doubling of the illumination duty cycle, and hence doubling of the achievable projector light output, while maintaining a DC‐balanced electrical drive.
Review of viewing‐angle compensation of TN‐mode LCDs using WV film
Authors: Yasuda Shoji , Ito Tadashi , Oikawa Tokuju , Ito Yoji , Takahashi Yohei
Published: March 2009

Abstract— Wide‐view (WV) films for TN‐mode LCDs, which optimize the optical parameters of the polymerized discotic material (PDM) layer and cellulose triacetate (CTA) have been developed. The development concept of the WV film and realization of its concept in the past and for the future will be reviewed. In particular, the discotic molecular alignment control enabled the improvement of the contrast ratio at oblique viewing angles of TN‐mode LCDs. In addition, color shifts at oblique angles are important for large‐screen TN‐mode LCD monitors and LCD‐TV sets. To improve the color‐shift problem, new technologies have been developed.
“… But Then He Became My Sipa”: The Implications of Relationship Fluidity for Condom Use Among Women Sex Workers in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Authors: Stoebenau Kirsten , Hindin Michelle J. , Nathanson Constance A. , Rakotoarison Paul Ghislain , Razafintsalama Violette
Published: March 2009

Increasing evidence indicates that sex workers use condoms less consistently with regular (i.e., nonpaying) partners than with clients. Few studies have examined the extent to which these 2 categories are mutually exclusive. In an ethnographic study of women's sex work in Antananarivo, Madagascar, we examined how the meaning of women sex workers’ sexual relationships could shift among 3 different forms of sex work. Condom use was less likely in forms in which the distinction between client and lover (sipa in Malagasy) was fluid. For many sex workers, therefore, relationships they understood to be intimate imparted the greatest health vulnerability. It is important to examine the influence of the meaning of sexual relationships on condom use for HIV prevention. Policy implications for HIV prevention work with sex workers are considered.
A Multifaceted Intervention to Improve Health Worker Adherence to Integrated Management of Childhood Illness Guidelines in Benin
Authors: Rowe Alexander K. , Onikpo Faustin , Lama Marcel , Osterholt Dawn M. , Rowe Samantha Y. , Deming Michael S.
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We evaluated an intervention to support health workers after training in Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI), a strategy that can improve outcomes for children in developing countries by encouraging workers' use of evidence-based guidelines for managing the leading causes of child mortality.

Methods. We conducted a randomized trial in Benin. We administered a survey in 1999 to assess health care quality before IMCI training. Health workers then received training plus either study supports (job aids, nonfinancial incentives, and supervision of workers and supervisors) or usual supports. Follow-up surveys conducted in 2001 to 2004 assessed recommended treatment, recommended or adequate treatment, and an index of overall guideline adherence.

Results. We analyzed 1244 consultations. Performance improved in both intervention and control groups, with no significant differences between groups. However, training proceeded slowly, and low-quality care from health workers without IMCI training diluted intervention effects. Per-protocol analyses revealed that workers with IMCI training plus study supports provided better care than did those with training plus usual supports (27.3 percentage-point difference for recommended treatment; P < .05), and both groups outperformed untrained workers.

Conclusions. IMCI training was useful but insufficient. Relatively inexpensive supports can lead to additional improvements.
Hospital Practices and Women's Likelihood of Fulfilling Their Intention to Exclusively Breastfeed
Authors: Declercq Eugene , Labbok Miriam H. , Sakala Carol , O'Hara MaryAnn
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We sought to assess whether breastfeeding-related hospital practices reported by mothers were associated with achievement of their intentions to exclusively breastfeed.

Methods. We used data from Listening to Mothers II, a nationally representative survey of 1573 mothers who had given birth in a hospital to a singleton in 2005. Mothers were asked retrospectively about their breastfeeding intention, infant feeding at 1 week, and 7 hospital practices.

Results. Primiparas reported a substantial difference between their intention to exclusively breastfeed (70%) and this practice at 1 week (50%). They also reported hospital practices that conflicted with the Baby-Friendly Ten Steps, including supplementation (49%) and pacifier use (45%). Primiparas who delivered in hospitals that practiced 6 or 7 of the steps were 6 times more likely to achieve their intention to exclusively breastfeed than were those in hospitals that practiced none or 1 of the steps. Mothers who reported supplemental feedings to their infant were less likely to achieve their intention to exclusively breastfeed: primiparas (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.1, 9.3); multiparas (AOR = 8.8; 95% CI = 4.4, 17.6).

Conclusions. Hospitals should implement policies that support breastfeeding with particular attention to eliminating supplementation of healthy newborns.
Socioeconomic Inequality in Exposure to Bullying During Adolescence: A Comparative, Cross-Sectional, Multilevel Study in 35 Countries
Authors: Due Pernille , Merlo Juan , Harel-Fisch Yossi , Damsgaard Mogens Trab , soc Mag scient , Holstein Bjørn E. , soc Mag scient , Hetland Jørn , Currie Candace , Gabhainn Saoirse Nic , de Matos Margarida Gaspar , Lynch John
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We examined the socioeconomic distribution of adolescent exposure to bullying internationally and documented the contribution of the macroeconomic environment.

Methods. We used an international survey of 162 305 students aged 11, 13, and 15 years from nationally representative samples of 5998 schools in 35 countries in Europe and North America for the 2001–2002 school year. The survey used standardized measures of exposure to bullying and socioeconomic affluence.

Results. Adolescents from families of low affluence reported higher prevalence of being victims of bullying (odds ratio [OR] = 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10, 1.16). International differences in prevalence of exposure to bullying were not associated with the economic level of the country (as measured by gross national income) or the school, but wide disparities in affluence at a school and large economic inequality (as measured by the Gini coefficient) at the national level were associated with an increased prevalence of exposure to bullying.

Conclusions. There is socioeconomic inequality in exposure to bullying among adolescents, leaving children of greater socioeconomic disadvantage at higher risk of victimization. Adolescents who attend schools and live in countries where socioeconomic differences are larger are at higher risk of being bullied.
Eating When There is Not Enough to Eat: Eating Behaviors and Perceptions of Food Among Food-Insecure Youths
Authors: Widome Rachel , Neumark-Sztainer Dianne , Hannan Peter J. , Haines Jess , Story Mary
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We explored differences in adolescents' eating habits, perceptions, and dietary intakes by food security status.

Methods. As part of Project EAT (Eating Among Teens), we surveyed 4746 multiethnic middle and high school students in 31 primarily urban schools in the Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota, area during the 1998–1999 academic year. Participants completed in-class surveys. We used multiple regression analysis to characterize associations between behaviors, perceptions, nutritional intake, and food security status.

Results. Compared with food-secure youths, food-insecure youths were more likely to perceive that eating healthfully was inconvenient and that healthy food did not taste good. Additionally, food-insecure youths reported eating more fast food but fewer family meals and breakfasts per week than did youths who were food secure. Food-insecure and food-secure youths perceived similar benefits from eating healthfully (P = .75). Compared with those who were food secure, food-insecure youths had higher fat intakes (P < .01). Food-insecure youths were more likely to have a body mass index above the 95th percentile.

Conclusions. The eating patterns of food-insecure adolescents differ in important ways from the eating patterns of those who are food secure. Policies and interventions focusing on improving the foods that these youths eat deserve further examination.
Seven-Year Life Outcomes of Adolescent Offenders in Los Angeles
Authors: Ramchand Rajeev , Morral Andrew R. , Becker Kirsten
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We examined important life outcomes for adolescent offenders to describe how they were faring in young adulthood.

Methods. We assessed 449 adolescent offenders (aged 13–17 years) in Los Angeles, CA, whose cases had been adjudicated by the Los Angeles Superior Court and who had been referred to group homes between February 1999 and May 2000. We used the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs to interview respondents at baseline and at 3, 6, 12, 72, and 87 months after baseline. A total of 395 respondents (88%) were interviewed or confirmed as dead at the final interview.

Results. At final interview, 12 respondents had died, 7 of them from gunshot wounds. Thirty-six percent of respondents reported recent hard drug use, and 27% reported 5 or more symptoms of substance dependence. Sixty-six percent reported committing an illegal activity within the previous year, 37% reported being arrested within the previous year, and 25% reported being in jail or prison every day for the previous 90 days. Fifty-eight percent had completed high school or obtained a GED, and 63% reported working at a job in the previous year.

Conclusions. The high rates of negative life outcomes presented here suggest the need for more effective rehabilitation programs for juvenile offenders.
The Contribution of Clinic-Based Interventions to Reduce Prenatal Smoking Prevalence Among US Women
Authors: Kim Shin Y. , England Lucinda J. , Kendrick Juliette S. , Dietz Patricia M. , Callaghan William M.
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We sought to estimate the effect of universal implementation of a clinic-based, psychosocial smoking cessation intervention for pregnant women.

Methods. We used data from US birth certificates (2005) and the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (2004) to estimate the number of women smoking at conception. To calculate the number of women eligible to receive the cessation intervention, we used estimates from the literature of the percentage of women who quit spontaneously (23%), entered prenatal care before the third trimester (96.5%), and disclosed smoking to their provider (75%). We used the pooled relative risk (RR) for continued smoking from the 2004 Cochrane Review as our measure of the intervention's effectiveness (RR = 0.94).

Results. We estimated that 944 240 women smoked at conception. Of these, 23.0% quit spontaneously, 6.3% quit with usual care, and an additional 3.3% quit because of the intervention, leaving 67.4% smoking throughout pregnancy. The calculated smoking prevalence in late pregnancy decreased from 16.4% to 15.6% because of the intervention.

Conclusions. Universal implementation of a best-practice, clinic-based intervention would increase the total number of quitters but would not substantially reduce smoking prevalence among pregnant women.
Understanding the Decisions and Values of Stakeholders in Health Information Exchanges: Experiences From Massachusetts
Authors: Rudin Robert S. , Simon Steven R. , Volk Lynn A. , Tripathi Micky , Bates David
Published: March 2009

Objectives. We studied how health information exchange systems are established by examining the decisions (and thus, indirectly, the values) of key stakeholders (health care providers) participating in a health information exchange pilot project in 3 Massachusetts communities. Our aim was to understand how these kinds of information exchanges can be made viable.

Methods. We used semistructured interviews to assess health care providers' decision-making processes in selecting technical architectures and vendors for the pilot projects to uncover their needs, expectations, and motivations.

Results. Our interviews indicated that, after extensive evaluations, health care providers in all 3 communities eventually selected a hybrid architecture that included a central data repository. However, the reasons for selecting this architecture varied considerably among the 3 communities, reflecting their particular values. Plans to create a community patient portal also differed across communities.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that, to become established, health information exchange efforts must foster trust, appeal to strategic interests of the medical community as a whole, and meet stakeholder expectations of benefits from quality measurements and population health interventions. If health information exchange organizations cannot address these factors, sustainability will remain precarious.
Two-dimensional numerical modeling of chemical transport–transformation in fluvial rivers: formulation of equations and physical interpretation
Authors: Huang Sui Liang
Published: March 2009

Based on previous work on the transport–transformation model of heavy metal pollutants in fluvial rivers, this paper presents the formulation of a two-dimensional model to describe chemical transport–transformation in fluvial rivers by considering basic principles of environmental chemistry, hydraulics and mechanics of sediment transport and recent developments along with three very simplified test cases. The model consists of water flow governing equations, sediment transport governing equations, transport–transformation equation of chemicals and convection–diffusion equations of sorption–desorption kinetics of particulate chemical concentrations on suspended load, bed load and bed sediment. The chemical transport–transformation equation is basically a mass balance equation. It demonstrates how sediment transport affects transport–transformation of chemicals in fluvial rivers. The convection–diffusion equations of sorption–desorption kinetics of chemicals, being an extension of batch reactor experimental results, take both physical transport, i.e. convection and diffusion, and chemical reactions, i.e. sorption–desorption into account. The effects of sediment transport on chemical transport–transformation were clarified through three simple examples. Specifically, the transport–transformation of chemicals in a steady, uniform and equilibrium sediment-laden flow was calculated by applying this model, and results were shown to be rational. Both theoretical analysis and numerical simulation indicated that the transport–transformation of chemicals in sediment-laden flows with a clay-enriched riverbed possesses not only the generality of common tracer pollutants, but also characteristics of transport–transformation induced by sediment motion. Future work will be conducted to present the validation/application of the model with available data.
Phytase Expressed by pIAβ8 and pGAPZαA Vectors and Analysis of its
Biochemical Characters
Authors: Feng H. , Zuo R.Y. , Chang J. , Zheng Q.H. , Yin Q.Q.
Published: March 2009

Phytase and phytase gene from Aspergillus ficuum (A. ficuum) were used in this study. The results showed that
phytase activity reached the peak of 0.17 U/g after 4 d incubation in solid medium for A. ficuum; the optimum pH and
temperature of phytase were 2.5 and 50 oC, respectively. A 1.4-kb DNA containing the coding region of phytase gene was
isolated and inserted into the expression vectors of pIAβ8 and pGAPZαA, which were transformed into E. coli (Top 10).
The maximal phytase activities in the supernatant and cells were 2.31 and 9.04 U/ml for the E. coli with pIAβ8, 8.04 and
2.93 U/ml for the E. coli with pGAPZαA, respectively. It was concluded that the recombinant of pIAβ8-phytase could express
intracellular phytase, while the recombinant of pGAPZαA-phytase could express extracellular phytase. The molecular
weight of phytase protein was 54.61 kDa.
Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Krishna K. Ananda , Sambasiva Rao K.R.S.
Published: March 2009

Stem cells are the centre for regenerative medicine. Given a right signal these undifferentiated cells have a remarkable
potential to develop into specialized cell types (blood cells, heart cells etc.) in the human body. Stem cells,
therefore, can be used in cell-based therapies to replace/repair damaged tissues and/or organs. Ongoing research in the
area of stem cells focuses on their potential application (both embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells) to create specialized
cells and replace the damaged ones. Hence, this cutting-edge technology might lead to new ways of detecting and
treating diseases. Stem cell transplantation can be considered as an option for the treatment of certain type of cancers. This
medical procedure can also be used to treat neurological diseases, autoimmune diseases, heart diseases, liver diseases,
metabolic disorders, spinal cord injury etc. The present review, therefore, focuses on the growing use of stem cell transplantation
in regenerative medicine to treat a variety of diseases. This review also provides the current status of the field
with a particular emphasis on bone marrow transplantation.