bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic and lamella models relationship for the eutectic system benzoic acid – cinnamic acid
Authors: Sharma B. L. , Jamwal R. , Kant R. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThe present investigation reveals the relationship between excess thermodynamic functions and the growth habits of the eutectic phases from the melt by continuous melt‐growth technique. Excess thermodynamic functions computed for different compositions of the benzoic acid – cinnamic acid eutectic system have been found consistent with the criteria of spontaneity and Planck formulation, and their reliability has been ascertained by the application of Guggenheim lattice theory. The results on the kinetics of anisotropic growth of the eutectic phases from the melt, evidentially evince the dislocation mechanism. Evidences have been obtained for a parabolic variation of mechanical strength with growth velocity of the eutectic material grown anisotropically from the melt at different intervals, which offer supporting complement to the dislocation mechanism governing the dependence of growth velocity on supercooling ΔT in the solidus – liquidus interface in a form : V = k(ΔT)2. A moderate anisotropic growth region has been explored by unique results of strength properties and microscopic results as well, to growing a layer of lamellae in a unidirectional lamina. An anisotropic eutectic composite lamellae lamina developed by moderate growth velocity (7.3 × 10‐8m3s‐1), is of greater interest offering optimum hardness, approximately varying between three‐and eight fold average increase in different modes of the mechanical strength in comparison to its isotropic growth carried out in an ice‐bath (∼273K), and manifold superior to its constituent phases irrespective of the growth mode. The directional lamina of uniform microstructural parameter lamellae, indicates that there is a perfect lamella‐ matrix equilibrium for which excess thermodynamic functions do vanish. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electron microscopy investigations on structures of ZrO2‐rich phases in the quasibinary system ZrO2‐Zr3N4
Authors: Tham A. T. , Rödel C. , Lerch M. , Wang D. , Su D. S. , Klein‐Hoffmann A. , Schlögl R. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractSlowly cooled nitrided zirconia samples were investigated and characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Besides the well‐known different modifications of ZrO2 some ZrO2‐rich oxynitride phases could be further found, called β‐type phases. An overview regarding the formation of such different structural modifications could be gained, supported by previously performed measurements using powder X‐ray diffractometry (XRD). Similar to fast cooled nitrided zirconia samples Zr(N,O), the slowly cooled ones also contain different kinds of ZrO2 precipitates, which can be obviously emphasized by using the methods of diffraction contrast. A super cell was successively built, derived from the unit cells of the β and β′ phase, in order to explain the structure of the observed modulated β″ phase. Agreements from the comparisons between experimental high resolution images and the simulated ones of such modulated structures confirm the suggested starting points. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the development of low‐level auditory discrimination and deficits in dyslexia
Authors: Fischer Burkhart , Hartnegg Klaus 
Published: April 2004

AbstractAbsolute auditory thresholds, frequency resolution and temporal resolution develop with age. It is still discussed whether low‐level auditory performance is of clinical significance—specifically, for delayed maturation of central auditory processing. Recently, five new auditory tasks were used to study the development of low‐level auditory discrimination. It was found that the development lasts up to the age of 16–18 years (on an average). Very similar tasks were now used with 432 controls and 250 dyslexic subjects in the age range of 7–22 years. For both groups the performance in one of the tasks was not related to the performance in another task indicating that the five tasks challenge independent subfunctions of auditory processing. Surprisingly high numbers of subjects were classified as low performers (LP), because they could not perform one or the other task at its easiest level and no threshold value could be assigned. For the dyslexics the incidence of LP was considerably increased in all tasks and age groups as compared with the age matched controls. The development of dynamic visual and optomotor functions and the corresponding deficits in dyslexia are discussed in relation to the auditory data presented here. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
3D two phase flows numerical simulations by SL‐VOF method
Authors: Biausser Benjamin , Guignard Stephan , Marcer Richard , Fraunié Philippe 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThis paper describes the development of a semi‐Lagrangian computational method for simulating complex 3D two phase flows. The Navier–Stokes equations are solved separately in both fluids using a robust pseudo‐compressibility method able to deal with high density ratio. The interface tracking is achieved by the segment Lagrangian volume of fluid (SL‐VOF) method. The 2D SL‐VOF method using the concepts of VOF, piecewise linear interface calculation (PLIC) and Lagrangian advection of the interface is herein extended to 3D flows. Three different test cases of SL‐VOF 3D are presented for validation and comparison either with 2D flows or with other numerical methods. A good agreement is observed in each case. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Linear and non‐linear stability analysis for finite difference discretizations of high‐order Boussinesq equations
Authors: Fuhrman David R. , Bingham Harry B. , Madsen Per A. , Thomsen Per G. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThis paper considers a method of lines stability analysis for finite difference discretizations of a recently published Boussinesq method for the study of highly non‐linear and extremely dispersive water waves. The analysis demonstrates the near‐equivalence of classical linear Fourier (von Neumann) techniques with matrix‐based methods for formulations in both one and two horizontal dimensions. The matrix‐based method is also extended to show the local de‐stabilizing effects of the non‐linear terms, as well as the stabilizing effects of numerical dissipation. A comparison of the relative stability of rotational and irrotational formulations in two horizontal dimensions provides evidence that the irrotational formulation has significantly better stability properties when the deep‐water non‐linearity is high, particularly on refined grids. Computation of matrix pseudospectra shows that the system is only moderately non‐normal, suggesting that the eigenvalues are likely suitable for analysis purposes. Numerical experiments demonstrate excellent agreement with the linear analysis, and good qualitative agreement with the local non‐linear analysis. The various methods of analysis combine to provide significant insight into the numerical behaviour of this rather complicated system of non‐linear PDEs. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of sensory evaluation and consumer preference for the selection of sweetpotato cultivars in East Africa
Authors: Tomlins Keith , Rwiza Elizabeth , Nyango Abdallah , Amour Rahila , Ngendello Theresia , Kapinga Regina , Rees Deborah , Jolliffe Flavia 
Published: April 2004

AbstractSweetpotato is an important staple crop in East Africa with great potential for introducing improved cultivars, but little is known about which sensory characteristics are desirable. Over a 2 year period, 600 consumers were interviewed at three locations (urban and rural) in the Lake Zone of Tanzania and their preference of 14 locally available sweetpotato cultivars in cooked form was evaluated. A simple questionnaire based on consumers first‐choice preference was used followed by socio‐economic questions. A trained sensory panel profiled the cooked sweetpotato samples, enabling comparisons with preference, location and season. Cluster analysis based on the sensory attributes was used to classify the cultivars into three groups; one cluster comprised the most preferred cultivars and another contained the least. Some cultivars were consistently preferred over the 2 year period while others were not. The location where the cultivars were grown also influenced preference. Stepwise regression indicated that the most discriminating sensory attributes were starch and stickiness. Target levels based on the mean intensity scores of these attributes are suggested as a means of screening new cultivars. The implications of these findings are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Oleoylation of sugarcane bagasse hemicelluloses using N‐bromosuccinimide as a catalyst
Authors: Sun Xaio‐Feng , Sun Run‐Cang , Sun Jing‐Xia 
Published: April 2004

AbstractConditions for the preparation of esters of sugarcane bagasse hemicelluloses with oleoyl chloride using N‐bromosuccinimide (NBS) as a catalyst in the N,N‐dimethylformamide/lithium chloride system under mild conditions were studied comparatively. The oleoylation was followed in terms of yield and degree of substitution (DS). The parameters optimised included oleoyl chloride concentration as the molar ratio of oleoyl chloride/anhydroxylose units in native hemicelluloses (1:1–8:1), NBS concentration (0.5–3.0%), reaction time (20–100 min) and reaction temperature (30–100 °C). Results were also compared with those for other catalysts such as H2SO4 and four tertiary amine catalysts, pyridine, 4‐dimethylaminopyridine, N‐methyl pyrrolidine and N‐methyl pyrrolidinone. An oleoyl chloride/hemicellulose molar ratio of 3:1 was found to be necessary for the reaction to proceed smoothly and to yield a product with a low DS. The new materials were characterised by FT‐IR and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies as well as thermal analysis. The thermal stability of the oleoylated hemicelluloses decreased slightly upon chemical modification, but no significant further decrease in thermal stability was observed for DS ≥ 0.29. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Cover Picture: Macromol. Chem. Phys. 6/2004
Authors: Monteil Vincent , Spitz Roger , Barbotin Fanny , Boisson Christophe 
Published: April 2004

Cover: The picture on the cover shows the microstructure of original poly(ethylene‐co‐butadiene) containing 1,2‐cyclohexane rings and the mechanism of cyclization.Further details can be found in the Full Paper by V. Monteil, R. Spitz, F. Barbotin, and C. Boisson* on page 737.
e‐democracy and knowledge. A multicriteria framework for the new democratic era
Authors: Moreno‐Jiménez José María , Polasek Wolfgang 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThis paper presents a new procedure, e‐cognocracy, to deal with the democratic system in the emerging knowledge society. This is not a procedure to assist technically in the establishment of the representation corresponding to the parties, as in the traditional interpretation by using Internet (e‐voting). It is rather a procedure to add a new quality to the democratic system by means of the network. This new quality, related with the process that characterized the evolutionism of systems alive, consists in the creation and diffusion of the societal knowledge of the problem under investigation through the network and, specially, of the process to deal with the scientific resolution of problems. This proposed e‐cognocracy will allow us to highlight the inclusion of those interested in the resolution of highly complex problems (participatory decision‐making), and also in the democratic governance of societal systems. For this purpose, we suggest the multicriteria framework as the way to deal with the modelling and resolution of such complex problems. Similarly, in the context of one of the most widely used multicriteria techniques, namely the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), we propose some decisional tools (analytic and informatic tools) orientated towards searching for the relevant knowledge associated with the decision‐making process and the procedures employed within it. This knowledge, corresponding to the patterns of behaviour, trends, opportunities, decisions and stylized facts will be the starting point of the consensus building process suggested as the appropriate way to effectively solve problems of high complexity usually presented in the governance of society. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling individual and global comparisons for multi‐attribute preferences
Authors: Mateos Alfonso , Jiménez Antonio , Ríos‐Insua Sixto 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThis paper describes a decision support system based on an additive multi‐attribute utility model for identifying the optimal strategy in complex decision‐making problems. The system allows for incomplete information on the component utility function and weight assessment, which leads to classes of utility functions and weight intervals, respectively. This makes the system suitable for group decision support, because individual conflicting views or judgements in a group of decision‐makers can be captured through imprecise responses in the respective assessment methods. Moreover, the system admits uncertainty about the multi‐attribute strategy consequences, which can be defined in term of ranges for each attribute instead of single values. The system computes non‐dominance and potential optimality to identify the most preferred strategy. We also propose an approach based on Monte Carlo simulation techniques for group decision‐making problems, which could be specially useful for e‐democracy, where several decision‐makers or groups of decision‐makers elicit their own preferences separately, which are then compared to try to reach a consensus on their respective preferences. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gradient plasticity modelling of strain localization in granular materials
Authors: Al Hattamleh O. , Muhunthan B. , Zbib H. M. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThe flow stress in the yield surface of plastic constitutive equation is modified with a higher order gradient term of the effective plastic strain to model the effect of inhomogeneous deformation in granular materials. The gradient constitutive model has been incorporated into the finite element code ABAQUS and used to simulate biaxial shear tests on dry sand. It is shown that the shape of the post‐peak segment of the load displacement curve predicted by the numerical analysis is dependent on the mesh size when gradient term is not used. Use of an appropriate gradient coefficient is shown to correct this and predict a unique shape of the load displacement curve regardless of the mesh size. The gradient coefficient required turns out to be approximately inversely proportional to the mesh elemental area. Use of the strain gradient term is found to diffuse the concentration of plastic strains within shear band resulting in its consistent width. The coefficient of the higher gradient term appears as a function of the grain size, the mean confining stress, and the plastic softening modulus. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Screening study for potential lead compounds for natural product‐based fungicides: I. Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of coumarins against Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Daoubi Mourad , Durán‐Patrón Rosa , Hmamouchi Mohamed , Hernández‐Galán Rosario , Benharref Ahmed , Collado Isidro G 
Published: April 2004

AbstractAn efficient, one‐pot synthesis of angular and linear dihydropyranocoumarins, along with C‐6 and C‐8 prenylated coumarins is reported. These compounds, together with single‐ and furanocoumarins, were tested for their potential antifungal activity against the phytopathogen Botrytis cinerea Pers ex Fr. The results show that furanocoumarins may be able to control the fungus B cinerea. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Extracts from St John's wort and their antimicrobial activity
Authors: Avato P. , Raffo F. , Guglielmi G. , Vitali C. , Rosato A. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractIn an effort to carry out a more in‐depth investigation on the antimicrobial properties of H. perforatum, we have assayed different extracts (MeOH; petroleum ether; CHCl3 and EtOAc) from the aerial parts of the plant against selected microorganisms. Growth inhibition was observed only for Gram‐positive bacteria, B. subtilis and B. cereus being the most susceptible to the tested drugs. The Hypericum extract obtained with EtOAc was the most active. The main constituents of this extract, as determined by HPLC analysis, were ﬂavonoids, hypericins and hyperforins. Incubation of the selected microorganisms with the pure chemicals resulted in a signiﬁcant inhibition of their growth by hypericin, hyperforin and its stable dicyclohexilammonium salt. Flavonoids appeared inactive at all. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“On Table” Positioning for Optimal Access for Cancer Excision in the Lower Rectum
Authors: Maeda Koutarou , Maruta Morito , Sato Harunobu , Masumori Koji , Aoyama Hiroyuki 
Published: April 2004

AbstractPoor visualization and restricted access often make tumor lesions in the lower rectum difficult to excise, particularly in a narrow male pelvis. The aim of this study was therefore to study whether (and if so to what extent) different positions of the patient on the operating table might improve accessibility. Twenty consecutive patients (men and women) undergoing laparotomy with surgery of the lower rectum were studied. The geometric configuration of the pelvis was studied and compared on lateral radiographs obtained at the operating table in each of four positions. Compared with the conventional lithotomy position, the thighs‐flat” position caused significant extension movement of the lumbosacral joint. Augmentation of the lumbar lordosis widened the pelvic view and enabled a more vertical view of the lower rectum (27.5 degrees in lithotomy position, 13.0 degrees in the thighs‐flat position). Insertion of a “lumbar pad“ contributed further to the augmentation (7 degrees). When compared on radiographic studies, the thighs‐flat position is preferable to the conventional lithotomy position in terms of facilitating low rectal surgery by improving both visibility and accessibility to the pelvic cavity.
Inguinal Hernia in the New Millennium
Authors: Cervantes Jorge 
Published: April 2004

Abstract.Since 1884, when Edoardo Bassini started the modern era of surgical correction of inguinal hernia (today the most common procedure performed by the general surgeon), many techniques have been introduced, some short‐lived, others with proven long‐term results. At the start of the new millennium, the surgeon has three clear alternatives: tension repairs, tension‐free repairs, and laparoscopic procedures. This paper analyzes these three options and offers an update regarding the pros and cons of the most commonly performed operations in surgical centers around the world.
Effect of Moderate Alcohol Consumption on Parameters of Reverse Cholesterol Transport in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Sierksma Aafje , Vermunt Susanne H. F. , Lankhuizen Inge M. , van der Gaag Martijn S. , Scheek Leo M. , Grobbee Diederick E. , van Tol Arie , Hendriks Henk F. J. 
Published: April 2004

Abstract: Background: Alcohol consumption is associated with increased high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. One of the main antiatherogenic functions of HDL is reverse cholesterol transport. Three early steps of reverse cholesterol transport are (1) cellular cholesterol efflux, (2) plasma cholesterol esterification (EST), and (3) cholesteryl ester transfer (CET) to apolipoprotein B–containing lipoproteins. Our previous study in healthy middle‐aged men showed that moderate alcohol consumption increases cellular cholesterol efflux and EST. This study investigated the effect of moderate alcohol consumption on three early steps of reverse cholesterol transport in postmenopausal women.Methods: In a randomized crossover study, 18 postmenopausal women—all apparently healthy, non‐smoking, and moderate alcohol drinkers—consumed white wine or white grape juice with evening dinner during 2 successive periods of 3 weeks. During the white wine period, alcohol intake equaled 24 g/day. At the end of each of the two experimental periods, blood samples were collected.Results: Three weeks of alcohol consumption increased serum HDL cholesterol levels (5.0%; p < 0.05), serum HDL phospholipid levels (5.8%; p < 0.05), and the ex vivo cellular cholesterol efflux capacity of plasma, measured with Fu5AH cells (3.4%; p < 0.05). Plasma EST and CET did not change.Conclusions: Moderate alcohol intake increases serum HDL cholesterol level and stimulates cellular cholesterol efflux in postmenopausal women. Moderate alcohol consumption does not seem to affect two other early steps of reverse cholesterol transport at this level of alcohol intake. Our data suggest that the relative protection of moderate alcohol consumption against cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women may involve the stimulation of reverse cholesterol transport through increased HDL.
Is physical activity influenced by urinary incontinence?
Authors: Stach‐Lempinen Beata , Nygård Clas‐Håkan , Laippala Pekka , Metsänoja Riina , Kujansuu Erkki 
Published: April 2004

Objective  To evaluate physical activity among urinary incontinent women seeking treatment and to assess the change of physical activity after treatment.Design  Part of a prospective observational intervention study to examine the factors influencing the severity of urinary incontinence.Setting  Tampere University Hospital—referral unit.Population  Eighty‐two urinary incontinent women were evaluated in the baseline and 69 (84%) one year (mean 13 months, range 6–21) after treatment.Methods  Physical activity was measured by self‐report questionnaire and electronic motion sensor: Caltrac accelerometer worn by women for one week. The diagnosis and severity of urinary incontinence was estimated on the basis of urodynamics, pad test, diary and incontinence‐specific quality of life measures. Treatment outcome was assessed according to objective parameters and patients satisfaction.Main outcome measures  Physical activity at work, leisure and sport expressed in MET (metabolic unit) and kilocalories, change in physical activity after treatment.Results  Twenty‐one (25.6%) of all women reported exercise of more than three times per week. Incontinent women with the highest leisure time activity ≥6 MET (n= 23, above 75th centile) were younger; they had less body mass index and greater urine leakage than others. One year after treatment, there was no change in any parameters of physical activities. Also exercise habits among women who were completely dry (n= 37) after treatment were not changed.Conclusion  Urinary incontinent women who seek treatment are as physically active as the normal population. Even after successful incontinence treatment, exercise habits do not change.
Parenting the Premature Infant: Potential Iatrogenesis from the Neonatal Intensive Care Experience
Authors: Rikli Joan M. 
Published: April 2004

Abstract(1) Developmental outcomes of premature infants are associated with the quality of the home environment and the level of parenting skills the family possesses. Successful development of the parenting role may be negatively influenced by the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) environment and nursing practices. Identification of interventions that promote the development of parenting skills in the NICU can potentially improve developmental outcomes for premature infants.