bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Segmental Order Parameters and Swelling in Polymer Networks
Authors: Sommer Jens‐Uwe , Saalwächter Kay 
Published: June 2010

AbstractWe study segmental order parameters in polymer networks in good solvent. In particular we consider the tensor order parameter which characterizes the degree of orientational order of segments and which is directly related to the residual coupling constant obtained in NMR‐experiments. Using a simple relation between the order parameter and the force acting on the chain end at a given extension we derive an universal relation for the order parameter for concentrations above the overlap threshold. Considering polymer gels at the equilibrium state of swelling we predict a unique relation between the tensor order parameter and the correlation length (blob size) of the gel. Experiments applying multi‐quantum NMR‐methods to both end‐linked and randomly cross‐linked polymer networks are in excellent agreement with this prediction. We critically discuss the widely used Flory‐Rehner model of network swelling and show that initial decay of the tensor order parameter as observed in experiments at low degrees of swelling can be explained as a solvent effect without making additional assumptions about constraint release processes during swelling.
Amphiphilic Polymer Conetworks as Matrices for Phase Transfer Reactions
Authors: Bruns Nico , Hanko Michael , Dech Stephan , Ladisch Reinhild , Tobis Jan , Tiller Joerg C. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractAmphiphilic polymer conetworks were prepared, characterized and used as highly activating matrices for phase transfer reactions. Several applications such as biocatalysis in organic solvents, metathesis reactions in water, biosensor designs for detecting metabolites in organic solvents, as well as gas sensor designs are discussed.
Study of the use of metallic foam in a vehicle for an energy‐economy racing circuit
Authors: Cardoso E. , Oliveira B. F. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractThe emphasis of this work is on the use of metal foams in automotive design for weight reduction with the purpose of studying the mechanical behaviour and possible project alternatives, through the modelling and subsequent computer simulation according to the case study – chassis of the “Sabiá 5”. The “Sabiás” are hyper‐economic vehicles created to compete in an energy‐economy racing circuit (Shell Eco‐marathon). For the structural analysis, the finite element software Abaqus/CAE is used. The tests performed are static and dynamic tests simulating the vehicle passing across a rough track and crash test. According to the results of the computational tests, metal foams demonstrated to be a good choice for the studied application, presenting the necessary weight reduction with the expected structural performance.
Effect of thickening agent and foaming agent on the micro‐architecture and deformation response of closed cell aluminum foam
Authors: Mondal D. P. , Das S. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractClosed cell aluminum foam was synthesized using different types of thickening agents. The effect of temperature,%foaming agent,%thickening agent and the type of thickening agent were varied in order to examine the influence of these parameters on the foam architecture and deformation behaviour. Attempts were also made to make a foam without using any thickening agent and the characteristics of these foams have been compared with the other foams which are made with the use of the thickening agent. It was observed that 0.6 wt.% calcium hydride was sufficient for foaming of aluminum and the relative density of aluminum foam did affected only marginally with an increase in calcium hydride beyond 0.6 wt.%. The increase in melt temperature decreases the relative density of aluminum foam. The relative density of aluminum foam, however, remained invariant to the % thickening agent. On the other hand the relative density of aluminum foam was found to be varied with the type of thickening agent. It was further observed that 10wt% silicon carbide could be the optimum amount as thickening agent considering the relative density and deformation response. Deformation response was found to be varying with the type of thickening agent. It was further noted that aluminum foam could be made without using any thickening agent.
Research into the influence of ground tire rubber (GTR) in the mechanical and thermal properties of recycled thermoplastic materials
Authors: Crespo J. E. , Nadal A. , Parres F. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractIn this work, we investigate the influence and interaction of the elastomeric material known as ground tire rubber (GTR), obtained from shredded tires, in the compound obtained by mixing this material with a thermoplastic matrix of high density recycled polyethylene (HDPE). The mixing process is carried out using a mill with heated rollers and the mixture is then sintered. We analyzed the influence of GTR on the thermal and mechanical properties of the mixture, as well as its influence on environmental degradation taking place in the mixture. The study was concluded with an analysis of fracture in the material using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), with the objective of observing the deformation and fracture that takes place, analysing the interaction between the elastomeric waste and the thermoplastic matrix.
Water absorption in unsaturated polyester composites reinforced with caroá fiber fabrics: modeling and simulation
Authors: Nóbrega M. M. S. , Cavalcanti W. S. , Carvalho L. H. , de Lima A. G. B. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractStudies on composites reinforced with natural fibers show that they are sensitive to influences from environmental agents such as water. The moisture causes degradation of the mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced composites to a larger extent when compared to synthetic fiber reinforced composites. This is a consequence of the higher moisture absorption, and the organic nature of the natural fibers. In this sense, the purpose of this work was to study theoretically and experimentally water absorption in unsaturated polyester composites reinforced with caroá fiber at 25, 50 and 70°C. The composites had a weight composition of 30% caroá and 70% unsaturated polyester with dimensions of 20×20×3 mm3 and 20×20×6 mm3. Water absorption tests were conducted by immersing samples in a distilled water bath and the water uptake was followed gravimetrically for different elapsed time. A three‐dimensional mathematical model was developed to predict the mass transfer during the water absorption in parallelepiped solids. Results of water absorption kinetic and moisture content distribution inside these composites are shown and analyzed. The knowledge of this moisture distribution allows verifying more favorable areas which presents delamination problems due to the weakness of the fiber‐matrix interface and consequently reduction in the mechanical properties. It was verified that moisture induced degradation of composite samples was significant at elevated temperature.
Fabrication of smart structure using shape memory alloy wire embedded hybrid composite
Authors: Jung B.‐S. , Kim M.‐S. , Kim Y.‐M. , Ahn S.‐H. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractShape Memory Alloys (SMA) have been actively studied in many fields utilizing their high energy density, and SMA wire embedded composite, in particular, can be used as a smart material for a load carrying structure and actuator. Composite materials such as Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics (GFRP) can sustain large loads, but at the same time the high stiffness of the material limits the displacement range of the SMA wire embedded composite. In this research, a SMA wire embedded hybrid composite was designed and fabricated to have a larger displacement than a SMA wire embedded single composite. The hybrid composite is designed with a n‐shape and it is comprised of three parts with different stiffness materials, GFRP with higher stiffness at both ends and silicone rubber with lower stiffness in the middle to increase the displacement range of the structure. The SMA wire embedded hybrid composite can be actuated by applying an electric current through the embedded SMA wire. The fabricated composite was mechanically fastened to prevent separation between the wire and the composite laminae induced by temperature rise of the wire. The displacement of SMA wire embedded hybrid composite was examined by measuring the radius of curvature.
Fatigue behaviour of bonded anchors subjected to tensile loads
Authors: Lazzarin P. , Grün J. , Mutignani F. , Ronchi R. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractFollowing recent studies on the fatigue behaviour of noise barriers for high speed railways for train transits, threaded rods bonded with epoxy resin for column base plate anchorage had to be qualified. A fatigue test campaign was carried out at Fischer Laboratories in Denzlingen (Germany) on M20 and M30 (8.8 Grade) threaded rod samples embedded in concrete by means of FIS EM epoxy resin. The tests considered also threaded rods (M16 and M30, 8.8 Grade) not directly embedded in concrete, but in pre‐cast corrugated pipes having a diameter constant and equal to 40 mm. The results were found to be very satisfactory as far as the resin performance was concerned. In fact, under tensile loads carried out under a nominal load ratio R ≈ 0, all fatigue failures took place in the threaded rods, under the nut, notwithstanding the embedment length was that suggested by technical manuals for static loading. Some typical fracture surfaces relating to medium and high cycle fatigue regime are documented. A statistical re‐analysis has been carried out considering also other data, either obtained at Fischer laboratories from analogous threaded applications or taken from the literature. A new scatterband is provided for threaded rods with diameter equal to or less than 20 mm.
A study on the behavior of a cylindrical type Li‐Ion secondary battery under abnormal conditions
Authors: Kim S. , Lee Y. S. , Lee H. S. , Jin H. L. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractLi‐ion (lithium ion) secondary batteries are rechargeable batteries in which lithium ions move between the cathode and the anode. Lithium is not as safe as nickel cadmium (NiCd), and the Li‐ion battery can under some conditions increase in temperature and ignite abnormal conditions which includes overcharging, being subjected to an impact, or being hit by a projectile. Before studying causes of Li‐ion battery explosions, the term “abnormal condition” was defined. Next, to check the mechanical conditions, an impact test by a free falling object of 9.1 kg weight made of steel was carried out. After the impact test, the damage of the separator around the hollow of the jelly roll in the cell was observed. Following this, the same cell's electrochemical conditions were assessed through a heating test to determine the potential thermal runaway. Finally, to analyze the mechanical damage to the Li‐ion batteries during the charging and the impact test, a finite element analysis was performed using LS‐DYNA and ABAQUS software. A cylindrical type Li‐ion secondary battery was selected for the impact test, heating test, and simulation. The test and simulation results provided insights into the extent to which cylindrical cells can endure abnormal conditions.
Increasing access to specialty care: A pilot, randomized controlled trial of telemedicine for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Dorsey E. Ray , Deuel Lisa M. , Voss Tiffini S. , Finnigan Kara , George Benjamin P. , Eason Sheelah , Miller David , Reminick Jason I. , Appler Anna , Polanowicz Joyce , Viti Lucy , Smith Sandy , Joseph Anthony , Biglan Kevin M. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractWe conducted a randomized, controlled pilot trial to evaluate the feasibility of providing subspecialty care via telemedicine for patients with Parkinson's disease residing in a remote community located ∼130 miles from an academic movement disorders clinic. Study participants were randomized to receive telemedicine care with a movement disorder specialist at the University of Rochester or to receive their usual care. Participants in the telemedicine group received three telemedicine visits over six months. Feasibility, as measured by the completion of telemedicine visits, was the primary outcome measure. Secondary measures were quality of life, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Ten participants residing in the community were randomized to receive telemedicine care (n = 6) or their usual care (n = 4). Four nursing home patients were assigned to telemedicine. Those receiving telemedicine completed 97% (29 of 30) of their telemedicine visits as scheduled. At the study's conclusion, 13 of 14 study participants opted to receive specialty care via telemedicine. Compared with usual care, those randomized to telemedicine had significant improvements in quality of life (3.4 point improvement vs. 10.3 point worsening on the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire 39; P = 0.04) and motor performance (0.3 point improvement vs. 6.5 point worsening on the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, motor subscale; P = 0.03). Relative to baseline, nursing home patients experienced trends toward improvement in quality of life and patient satisfaction. Providing subspecialty care via telemedicine for individuals with Parkinson's disease living remotely is feasible. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Topotecan dynamics, tautomerism and reactivity—1H/13C NMR and ESI MS study
Authors: Hyz Karolina , Kawȩcki Robert , Bednarek Elżbieta , Bocian Wojciech , Sitkowski Jerzy , Kozerski Lech 
Published: June 2010

AbstractTopotecan (TPT) is in clinical use as an antitumor agent, hycamtin™. Because of this, it requires both biologically and chemically useful information to be available. TPT acts by binding to the covalent complex formed by nicked DNA and topoisomerase I. This has a poisonous effect since inserted into the single‐strand nick and TPT inhibits its religation. We used NMR to trace TPT dynamics, tautomerism and solvolysis products in various solvents and conditions. Chemical stability was assessed in methanol and DMSO as compared to water, and the regioselectivity of the N‐ and O‐methylation was studied using various alkylating agents. The reaction products of quaternization of the nitrogen atom and methylation of the oxygen atom were characterized by means of ESI MS, 1H/13C‐HMBC and ‐HSQCAD NMR. We have focused on the NMR characterization of TPT with an anticipation that its aggregation, tumbling properties and the intramolecular dipolar interactions will be a common feature for other compounds described in this article. These features can also be useful in tracing the interactions of this class of topoisomerase I (TopoI) poisons with DNA. Moreover, the results explained shed light on the recently disclosed problem of lack of stability of TPT in the heart tissue homogenate samples using the analytical assays developed for this class of compounds carried out in the presence of methanol. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ethical infrastructure: A new requirement of the state's industrial policy
Authors: Choi Chong Ju , Digol Diana 
Published: June 2010

Abstract

Ethics of business leadership has witnessed a renewed interest in recent years provoked perhaps by a number of cases of business leadership failure. Unlike the critics of the industrial policy and direct market intervention by the state, in this paper we argue for an increased role of the state in imposing the ethical standards and the need to integrate the ethical infrastructure into the state's industrial policy. We believe that overall national economic success is dependent on four essential elements: financial infrastructure, physical infrastructure, knowledge infrastructure and ethical infrastructure. We further believe that proper integration and correct functioning of these elements within the state's industrial policy is fundamental to economic development and growth in any country in 21st century. We consider that the ethical infrastructure might provide an important element of a possible riposte in the future to the serious financial scandals of the kind that recently affected global business. We foresee that ethical infrastructure fosters best practice. In this paper, we argue that the integration of the ethical infrastructure is a new requirement of the state's industrial policy.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Health information systems, decentralisation and democratic accountability
Authors: Madon Shirin , Krishna S. , Michael Edwin 
Published: June 2010

AbstractWhile decentralisation is a much‐used term in development discourse, there is lack of clarity about how much autonomy should be granted to local agencies in programme implementation. This is particularly the case in the health sector in developing countries where decentralisation has resulted in the primary health centre (PHC) being identified as the focal point for the delivery of basic health services to rural citizens. An important element of primary healthcare reform has been the implementation of health information systems (HIS). These systems primarily account for monies spent to higher levels of administration and funding bodies rather than account for primary healthcare provision to citizens. In this article, we focus on various emergent processes of change that are occurring under the auspices of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) in India to strengthen the interface between the PHC and the community. We present a case study of Gumballi PHC in Karnataka, South India. Our findings reveal ways in which these new processes can be supported by conceptualising the HIS as more than a mere reporting tool. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anaphylactoid reaction to high‐dose methotrexate and successful desensitization
Authors: Oulego‐Erroz Ignacio , Maneiro‐Freire Mercedes , Bouzón‐Alejandro Marta , Vázquez‐Donsión Manuel , Couselo José Miguel 
Published: June 2010

AbstractAnaphylactic/anaphylactoid reaction to methotrexate (MTX) is uncommon. It may occur with the first dose (non‐allergic reactions) or after a previous exposure to the drug (allergic or specific reactions). Desensitization has been shown effective in children with allergic‐type reactions permitting the continuation of high‐dose methotrexate (HDMTX) therapy. We report the case of a child with localized osteosarcoma who developed an anaphylactoid reaction after a first HDMTX course. A desensitization protocol was successfully applied allowing the administration of four additional courses. In our experience, desensitization can be a safe and effective procedure in children with anaphylactoid reactions to HDMTX. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:557–559. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cattell–Horn–Carroll abilities and cognitive tests: What we've learned from 20 years of research
Authors: Keith Timothy Z. , Reynolds Matthew R. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractThis article reviews factor‐analytic research on individually administered intelligence tests from a Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) perspective. Although most new and revised tests of intelligence are based, at least in part, on CHC theory, earlier versions generally were not. Our review suggests that whether or not they were based on CHC theory, the factors derived from both new and previous versions of most tests are well explained by the theory. Especially useful for understanding the theory and tests are cross‐battery analyses using multiple measures from multiple instruments. There are issues that need further explanation, of course, about CHC theory and tests derived from that theory. We address a few of these issues including those related to comprehension–knowledge (Gc) and memory factors, as well as issues related to factor retention in factor analysis. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermal state of permafrost and active layer in Central Asia during the international polar year
Authors: Zhao Lin , Wu Qingbai , Marchenko S.S. , Sharkhuu N. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractPermafrost in Central Asian is present in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in China, the Tien Shan Mountain regions in China, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, the Pamirs in Tajikistan, and in Mongolia. Monitoring of the ground thermal regime in these regions over the past several decades has shown that the permafrost has been undergoing significant changes caused by climate warming and increasing human activities. During the International Polar Year, measured mean annual ground temperature (MAGT) at a depth of 6 m ranged from −3.2°C to 0.2°C on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the active‐layer thickness (ALT) varied between 105 and 322 cm at different sites. Ground temperatures at the bottom of the active layer (TTOP) warmed on average by 0.06°C yr−1 over the past decade. In Mongolia, MAGT at 10–15 m depth increased by up to 0.02–0.03°C yr−1 in the Hovsgol Mountain region, but by 0.01–0.02°C yr−1 in the Hangai and Hentei Mountain regions. The increase in permafrost temperatures in the northern Tien Shan from 1974 to 2009 ranged from 0.3°C to 0.6°C. At present measured permafrost temperatures vary from −0.5°C to −0.1°C. The ALT increased from 3.2 to 4 m in the 1970s to a maximum of 5.2 m between 1995 and 2009. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal state of permafrost in North America: a contribution to the international polar year
Authors: Smith S.L. , Romanovsky V.E. , Lewkowicz A.G. , Burn C.R. , Allard M. , Clow G.D. , Yoshikawa K. , Throop J. 
Published: June 2010

AbstractA snapshot of the thermal state of permafrost in northern North America during the International Polar Year (IPY) was developed using ground temperature data collected from 350 boreholes. More than half these were established during IPY to enhance the network in sparsely monitored regions. The measurement sites span a diverse range of ecoclimatic and geological conditions across the continent and are at various elevations within the Cordillera. The ground temperatures within the discontinuous permafrost zone are generally above −3°C, and range down to −15°C in the continuous zone. Ground temperature envelopes vary according to substrate, with shallow depths of zero annual amplitude for peat and mineral soils, and much greater depths for bedrock. New monitoring sites in the mountains of southern and central Yukon suggest that permafrost may be limited in extent. In concert with regional air temperatures, permafrost has generally been warming across North America for the past several decades, as indicated by measurements from the western Arctic since the 1970s and from parts of eastern Canada since the early 1990s. The rates of ground warming have been variable, but are generally greater north of the treeline. Latent heat effects in the southern discontinuous zone dominate the permafrost thermal regime close to 0°C and allow permafrost to persist under a warming climate. Consequently, the spatial diversity of permafrost thermal conditions is decreasing over time. Copyright © 2010 Crown in the right of Canada and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resolution of extensive severe bronchiectasis in an infant
Authors: Crowley Suzanne , Matthews Iren 
Published: June 2010

AbstractBronchiectasis is, by definition, an irreversible condition. Following recent reports of reversible bronchiectasis in children, it has been suggested that the definition be broadened to include pre‐bronchiectasis and transitional reversible states. We describe the case of a young infant who had extensive, severe bronchiectasis of unknown etiology that resolved following prolonged treatment with antibiotics and a tapering course of oral steroids. We suggest that the prolonged treatment may have played a role, perhaps by eradicating infection and thus enabling regeneration of bronchial anatomy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2010; 45:717–720. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.