bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcitonin Gene‐Related Peptide (CGRP) and Migraine Current Understanding and State of Development
Authors: Bigal Marcelo E. , Walter Sarah , Rapoport Alan M.
Published: July 2013

Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) is a ubiquitous neuropeptide found at the very centers of the migraine process, both centrally and peripherally. It has been under careful study for approximately 25 years. Several CGRP‐receptor antagonists are being evaluated for acute treatment of episodic migraine. Three monoclonal antibodies are being studied for prevention of episodic migraine, and 1 monoclonal antibody is being studied for prevention of chronic migraine. In this review, we discuss the role of CGRP in normal physiology and the consequences of CGRP inhibition for human homeostasis. We then review the current state of development for CGRP‐receptor antagonists and CGRP monoclonal antibodies. We close by speculating on the potential clinical role of CGRP antagonism in the acute and preventive treatment of episodic and chronic migraine.
What is the cause of palate lesions? A case report
Authors: Oliveira SC , Slot DE , Van der Weijden GA
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Trauma to the oral tissues can be caused by fellatio. Few cases are reported in the literature.

Methods

A case of oral palate lesions is presented and discussed.

Results

The patient developed a large band of petechial haemorrhage extending across the soft palate following the practice of fellatio. The diagnosis was made through an interview with the patient, which disclosed a probable case for fellatio as the cause of the palatal spots. At the follow‐up visit 14 days later, the lesions disappeared.

Conclusions

Oral sex activity has increased over the last decades. The dental care professional should be aware that lesions of the palate may result from sexual behaviour. With this possibility in mind, those working in the area of head and neck medicine should consider fellatio as an addition to the differential aetiology of intraoral petechiae.
Is the reciprocating movement per se able to improve the cyclic fatigue resistance of instruments?
Authors: Kiefner P. , Ban M. , De‐Deus G.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To compare cyclic fatigue resistance of two geometrically similar nickel–titanium instruments, used in conditions similar to clinical use in reciprocating and continuous rotary motion.

Methodology

Four groups of eighteen instruments each, Reciproc® files sizes ISO 25 and 40 (R25 and R40) and Mtwo® files sizes ISO 25 and 40 (M25 and M40), were tested in reciprocating and continuous rotary motion, employing a novel experiment device. An artificial root canal (diameter, 1.4 mm; angle of curvature, 60 °; and curvature radius, 5 mm) was milled into a stainless steel block. To simulate clinical conditions, instead of rotating the file in static position, the set‐up was designed to produce a continuous up‐and‐down pecking motion along the vertical axis of the instrument. Time to fracture (TTF) and push–pull cycles (PPC) were recorded, the number of cycles to fracture (NCF) was determined, and fractured instrument surfaces were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Results

Mean time to fracture was 34.44 ± 8.58 min for R25 in reciprocation motion, 35.77 ± 4.82 min for R40 in reciprocation motion, 12.15 ± 1.74 min for M25 in continuous rotary motion and 13.27 ± 2.02 min for M40 in continuous rotary motion, whereas 28.52 ± 3.27 min for R25 in continuous rotary motion, 23.87 ± 1.52 min for R40 in continuous rotary motion, 31.07 ± 1.79 min for M25 in reciprocation motion and 31.08 ± 3.26 min for M40 in reciprocation motion. There was a significant difference (P < 0.0001) for the cyclic fatigue resistance between the reciprocation motion and the continuous rotary motion groups. Reciproc® files in reciprocating movement had a significantly higher NCF than Mtwo® files, when used in continuous rotation. The highest resistance to failure was shown by Reciproc® files in reciprocation movement, followed by Mtwo® files in reciprocation and Reciproc® files in continuous motion. Mtwo® files in continuous rotary movement had the least resistance. SEM analysis of the fracture surface confirmed typical features of cyclic fatigue failure.

Conclusion

Reciprocating movement increased the cyclic fatigue resistance of NiTi instruments.
Impact of remaining zinc oxide‐eugenol–based sealer on the bond strength of a resinous sealer to dentine after root canal retreatment
Authors: Rached‐Junior F. J. A. , Sousa‐Neto M. D. , Souza‐Gabriel A. E. , Duarte M. A. H. , Silva‐Sousa Y. T. C.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To evaluate the bond strength of a resin‐based sealer (AH Plus) to root canal dentine after the removal of a zinc oxide‐eugenol–based sealer (Endofill), using different retreatment techniques.

Methodology

The root canals of sixty‐four maxillary incisors were prepared with ProTaper and filled with Endofill/gutta‐percha. After thermocycling, the roots were randomly assigned according to the retreatment technique (n = 16): (A) ProTaper, (B) ProTaper/xylol, (C) ultrasound and (D) ultrasound/xylol and according to whether an operating microscope (OM) was used or not (n = 8): GI‐ direct vision (DV) and GII‐ indirect through the OM. Eight additional roots were instrumented and filled with AH Plus/gutta‐percha (control). Roots were sectioned to obtain 1‐mm‐thick slices. Slices were used in the push‐out test and in confocal microscopy. Data were submitted to anova and Tukey test (α = 0.05).

Results

The specimens filled under the OM (2.50 ± 0.90) had higher bond strength values of sealer to root canal walls (P < 0.05). The control group had superior mean adhesion values (4.75 ± 1.47) that were significantly different from the others (P < 0.05). Ultrasound/xylol (2.53 ± 1.00) was superior to ultrasound (2.23 ± 0.72) (P < 0.05), ProTaper (2.20 ± 0.69), ProTaper/Xylol (2.12 ± 0.65), which were similar (P > 0.05). Bond strength was different in all thirds (P < 0.05) and decreased in the following sequence: cervical (3.19 ± 1.18), middle (2.58 ± 1.21) and apical (1.87 ± 0.68). Confocal analysis revealed residues of Endofill in dentinal tubules when the removal protocol was carried out with ProTaper, but not from ultrasound combined with xylol.

Conclusions

The OM was associated with higher bond strength values for filling material to root canals. The zinc oxide‐eugenol–based sealer negatively affected the bond strength of AH Plus to root canal walls, regardless of the retreatment technique.
Efficacy of different chemicals on shelf life extension of parsley stored at two temperatures
Authors: Ouzounidou Georgia , Papadopoulou Kalliope K. , Asfi Maria , Mirtziou Ioanna , Gaitis Fragiskos
Published: July 2013

Four different chemical treatments,GA3, 1‐MCP, essential oils and nano‐Cu, were applied immediately after harvest toPetroselinum crispum(Mill) plants. The efficacy of the above chemicals on shelf life extension of parsley stored at 5 °C and 20 °C was determined by analysing physiological and biochemical factors that determine quality standards of storage fresh parsley. Nonsprayed parsley revealed the highest loss of weight, ascorbic acid, pigments and an enhancement ofCO2production and lipid peroxidation at 5 °C and 20 °C of storage. Nano‐Cu was more effective for delaying weight loss and revealed a better storage capacity.GA3, 1‐MCPand essential oils sprays were more effective in ascorbic acid retention at 20 °C than at 5 °C, whereas all substances protect samples from lipid peroxidation. Essential oils were more clearly inhibitory towards both total viable counts and yeast infection. Our results suggest thatGA3, 1‐MCP, essential oils andNano‐Cu exert their function through different mechanisms during ripening and could provide an effective and complementary means for maintaining high‐quality parsley leaves after harvest.
Microwave‐assisted extraction and antioxidant activity of star anise oil from Illicium verum Hook.f
Authors: Cai Ming , Guo Xiangyang , Liang Hanhua , Sun Peilong
Published: July 2013

In this study, microwave‐assisted extraction with ethanol (MAEE) of star anise oil from Illicium verum Hook.f. has been optimised by response surface methodology (RSM). A maximum yield of star anise oil was obtained at an optimum condition: the ratio of solvent to sample 17 mL g−1, extraction time 16 min and microwave power 505 W. Accordingly, the highest yield of star anise oil was about 24.98%, which was much higher than that of steam distillation (SD), 7.17%. Oxygenated organic compounds in representative of trans‐anethole are a major component in star anise oil, nearly 94.21% for SD and 86.66% for MAEE, identified and determined by GC‐MS. The oils extracted by SD and MAEE both have strong antioxidant activities that were demonstrated by the DPPH and ABTS assays.
Physicochemical characterisation and oxidative stability of refined hoki oil, unrefined hoki oil and unrefined tuna oil
Authors: Tengku‐Rozaina Tengku Mohamad , Birch Edward John
Published: July 2013

Physicochemical characterisation and oxidative stability of refined hoki oil, unrefined hoki oil and unrefined tuna oil were carried out in the present study. Tuna oil contains a higher percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (42.57%) than the hoki oils (28.79–30.13%), which have higher percentages of monounsaturated fatty acids (45.02–47.16%). All oils showed a good ratio of n‐3 to n‐6 fatty acid (7.01–8.10). Cholesterol contents in the unrefined hoki (5149.40 μg g−1) and tuna (2045.48 μg g−1) oils were higher than the refined hoki oil (1411.27 μg g−1). Tuna has a higher concentration of natural α‐tocopherol (752.49 μg g−1) but lower concentration of vitamin A (110.99 μg g−1) than unrefined hoki oil (151.44 μg g−1 and 997.60 μg g−1, respectively). Higher percentages of unsaponifiable matter were found in the hoki oils (4.90–7.24%) compared with the tuna oil (0.56%). The hoki oils appear more yellow than the tuna oil, which is darker by comparison. Moisture, p‐anisidine value and free fatty acid contents in the hoki oils were lower than the tuna oil. Other indicators of oxidative stability showed that the hoki oils were more stable than the tuna oil.
Sensory evaluations and stability determinations of goat milk containing galactooligosaccharides
Authors: Pruksasri Suwattana , Supee Kanjana
Published: July 2013

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of producing goat milk containing galactooligosaccharides (GOS) by β‐galactosidase and to determine the sensory attribute and stability of goat milk containing GOS. The results indicated that the maximum GOS obtained were approximately 13.9% of total sugars at pH 4.5 and temperature 40 °C. The sensory attribute of the obtained GOS was determined using a 5‐point hedonic scale in terms of taste, flavour, appearance and overall acceptability. There were significant increases in taste and overall acceptability of goat milk containing higher GOS concentration when compared to regular goat milk (control). Also, goat milk containing GOS presented a good stability over the acidic conditions. GOS in goat milk were also stable after the high heat treatment and shelf life conditions.
Quantification of soluble solids in reconstituted açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) pulp using near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Sandra Koizimi Leandro , Luís Trevelin Carlos , José Pessoa Dalton Cruz , Luís Cunha Júnior Carlos , de Almeida Gustavo Teixeira Henrique
Published: July 2013

Açaí consumption is increasing worldwide because of the growing recognition of its nutritional and therapeutic properties. This product is classified based on its soluble solids content (SS), but the determination of SS in pulp is time consuming, tedious and not suitable for modern food processing plants. As near‐infrared (NIR) systems have been implemented to measure various quality attributes of food products, the objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of NIR diffuse reflectance spectroscopy to quantify the SS content of açaí pulp. Partial least squares (PLS) regression models were constructed to predict the SS. An optimum PLS model required one latent variable [principal component (PC)1 = 97%] with a root‐mean‐square error of calibration (RMSEC) of 1.06% for the calibration data set and the root‐mean‐square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 1.03% for internal cross‐validation. External validation using an independent data set showed good performance (RMSEP = 1.33% and Rp2 = 0.82). NIR spectroscopy is a reliable method with which to determine SS in açaí pulp and thereby to classify açaí pulp according to established minimum quality standards.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of different propolis samples from north‐western Algeria
Authors: Benhanifia Mokhtar , Mohamed Wessam M. , Bellik Yuva , Benbarek Hama
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was the investigation of antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of different ethanolic extracts of propolis (EEP) collected from north‐western Algeria. Total polyphenols and flavonoids contents of extracts were measured. The UV absorption spectrum showed and confirmed their polyphenols constituents. All EEPs exerted antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria, but no effect on Gram‐negative bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of EEPs ranged from 0.01% to 2.6% v/v. The antioxidant activity was measured using ferric‐reducing power (FRAP), 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical‐scavenging and ESR methods. Propolis TIA‐2 and MOH‐MAS samples showed the highest antioxidative capacity, after 35 min, while TIA‐1, NED‐TL and SFS‐SBA samples showed the highest antioxidative potential of measured EEPs, after 3 min. TIA‐2 sample showed the highest antibacterial, antioxidant activity and highest DPPH free radical‐scavenging activity as well as the highest polyphenols and flavonoids content, compared with other propolis samples.
A study on relationships between durum wheat semolina properties, technological mixing parameters and the properties of dough after mixing
Authors: Vinci Paolo , Fois Simonetta , Parente Eugenio , Roggio Tonina , Catzeddu Pasquale
Published: July 2013

Partial least square regression analysis was used to study the correlation between X variables (semolina quality, hydration level and mixing time) and Y variables, which were, in a first model, dough consistency during mixing, and, in a second model, dough properties after mixing (strength, elasticity, density) and leavening (maximum volume). The first model showed a predictive residual sum of squares (PRESS) of 2.98 and a predictive R2 (Q2) of 0.92, and highlighted the key role of hydration and mixing time on dough consistency. The second model had the best PRESS (8.25) and Q2 (0.94) values for dough volume and indicated that the volume increased with increasing mixing time until the dough consistency decreased of 20–30%. Dough volume was primarily affected by hydration. The model indicated that maximum volume after leavening, corresponding to optimum mixing time, was obtained with a soft and elastic dough, with a low‐density value.
Pasting and rheological properties of chia composites containing barley flour
Authors: Inglett George. E. , Chen Diejun , Xu Jingyuan , Lee Suyong
Published: July 2013

The unique chia–barley composites contain omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω‐3 PUFAs) from chia and high β‐glucan content from barley that are well known for lowering blood cholesterol and preventing coronary heart disease. The pasting and rheological properties of chia and barley composites were characterised using Rapid Visco Analyser followed by an advanced rheometer. Shear‐thinning properties were observed for all the composites. The pasting and rheological properties of the products were not greatly influenced by 10% or 20% ground chia replacements but showed differences at the 50% replacement level. The results suggested that the elastic properties of chia–barley composites 1:1 with chia were improved by the chia component. Also, the chia–barley composites gave improved water‐holding capacities, particularly at the 50% level. Whole chia seeds are not easily utilised because of their hard coat. These fine particle composites should be helpful for preparing functional food products having enhanced health benefits.
What to do when presented with a prescription from another European country: insight from a qualitative study of pharmacists in England
Authors: Knai Cécile , Saliba Vanessa , Davies James , McKee Martin , Khoshaba Bernadette , Lago Eleonora , San Miguel Lorena
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Prescriptions for medicines issued by healthcare professionals in other parts of the European Union are legally valid in the UK. However, it is not known whether this is fully understood by British community pharmacists. In this study we aimed to understand the implementation of UK pharmacy policy on dispensing prescriptions from other parts of the European Union and to investigate pharmacists' knowledge and interpretation of the relevant provisions in a mystery shopping exercise in English pharmacies.

Methods

We reviewed the policy literature on regulations and practices pertaining to the prescribing and dispensation of prescription-only medicines in the UK. We interviewed key English informants in pharmacy. We then conducted a ‘mystery shopping’ exercise in 60 randomly selected pharmacies in urban, peri-urban and rural areas of England to investigate how community pharmacists manage four different types of prescriptions from another EU country.

Key findings

From the eight interviews conducted there was broad consensus that existing processes for verifying the authenticity of foreign prescriptions could be improved. Of the 60 pharmacies visited, only 27% (16 out of 60) were willing to dispense the medication. Pharmacists unwilling to dispense were invited to explain their reasons for refusal. The most common were that they believed that English pharmacists are unauthorised to dispense foreign prescriptions, and that prescriptions must be in the English language or issued by a UK-recognised prescriber.

Conclusion

Existing processes available to English pharmacists for verifying the authenticity of foreign prescriptions seem to be insufficient. Strategies to overcome these problems were proposed by pharmacists and key informants, and include the creation of a database or registry of all authorised European Economic Area/Swiss prescribers, development of EU standards on prescription content and on dosage of medications, consistent international non-proprietary name (INN) prescribing and the use of an agreed common language for key information on prescriptions.
Social assistance in Shanghai: Dynamics between social protection and informal employment
Authors: Wong Yu‐Cheung , Chen Honglin , Zeng Qun
Published: July 2013

China's social assistance programme (dibao 低保) was introduced in Shanghai in 1993 and gradually extended to cover all urban areas by 1998. Due to massive economic restructuring, starting in the early 1990s, many urban dibao recipients were laid‐off, that is, state‐owned enterprise (SOE) employees. Shanghai was the epicentre of SOE reform, and the dibao system was primarily introduced to provide a safety net for laid‐off workers. In 2010, approximately 3 per cent of urban, permanent residents were on dibao, and 72 per cent of its recipients were working‐age adults. We conducted longitudinal qualitative interviews five times over 2 years with 40 dibao families that contained adults of working age in a Shanghai district. The current study demonstrates how they managed their employment, income and the dibao system. Findings suggested that, for various reasons, there was insufficient motivation for recipients to gain reemployment and leave dibao. Furthermore, local cadres, which were responsible for assessing and recommending dibao applicants to the district government, likely just assumed the incomes of adults with working capabilities.
Putting the parity into service‐user participation: An integrated model of social justice
Authors: Davies Kate , Gray Mel , Webb Stephen A.
Published: July 2013

Models of service‐user participation have derived from citizenship or consumerist agendas, neither of which has achieved the structural reforms important for the most marginalised social work clients. This article proposes Fraser's model of ‘parity of participation’ as an appropriately multifaceted frame for capturing the social justice aspirations of service‐user participation. A qualitative case study compared the experiences and expectations of people who had used Australian mental health services with a sample who had used Australian homelessness services to examine their expectations of participation at individual and representative levels. The findings reinforce concerns from Fraser's research about the tendency for identity‐based consumerist notions of participation to reify group identity. This leads to tokenistic service‐user involvement strategies that have little impact on participation at a structural level. Fraser's parity of participation is shown to have untested potential to reshape service‐user participation to meet the social justice aspirations of social work clients.

Key Practitioner Message: ● Innovative, service‐user driven strategies for collaboration will be those which challenge existing power structures; ● Service users want their contributions to decision making to generate identifiable change in the system of social services; ● The success of service‐user participation strategies might be the extent to which political, economic and cultural opportunities are enhanced.
The attitudes of patients with chronic conditions towards nurse prescribing medications
Authors: Ben Natan M. , Kabaha A. , Jackob N. , Atallah R. , Sharon I.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To explore the attitudes of patients with chronic conditions towards the expansion of nurse authority, with an emphasis on nurse prescribing of medications for chronic conditions.

Background

The rising number of chronically ill patients in Israel, concurrent with a shortage of physicians, has led to the delegation of authority from physicians to nurses, and this is particularly conspicuous in the prescribing of medication for chronic conditions.

Method

In this correlational study, a questionnaire was distributed to 230 community‐based chronically ill men and women aged 18 and older who take at least one regular medication. Data were collected from February to April 2012. Data analysis was performed with the SPSS 19 programme. It includes descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

Most respondents are in favour of expanding nurse authority to prescribing medication for chronic conditions but object to expanding nurse authority to prescribing new medication. Respondents also object to expanding nurse authority to prescribing medication for chronic conditions in the field of psychiatry. The older respondents and the higher their image of nursing, as well as their knowledge on expanding nurse authority to prescribing medication for chronic conditions, the more positive their attitudes towards this expansion of authority.

Conclusions

This study provides support for nurse prescribing of medication for chronic conditions in Israel. Policymakers in the field of nursing understand the national significance of increasing public awareness of expanding nurse authority to prescribe medication for chronic conditions.
Introducción: los mercados de trabajo europeos y la crisis económica
Authors: TORRES Raymond
Published: July 2013

Desde la crisis financiera de 2008 hay 8 millones más de europeos sin empleo. La recesión prolongada entraña otros riesgos examinados aquí: exclusión laboral, costos económicos del desempleo de larga duración y pérdida del potencial generador de empleo de las empresas. Ante esta situación, el autor analiza críticamente las políticas europeas, en especial la austeridad impuesta en 2010 y sus implicaciones a largo plazo para las economías, sociedades y mercados laborales europeos. Destaca asimismo los hallazgos empíricos de los artículos del presente número, que sugieren la urgencia de adoptar políticas capaces de corregir las tendencias actuales.
Mercados laborales corporativistas y no corporativistas y desempleo en la OCDE
Authors: STURN Simon
Published: July 2013

El artículo muestra que la incidencia de las instituciones del mercado de trabajo sobre el desempleo varía en función del régimen de dicho mercado. En un régimen corporativista, caracterizado por buenas relaciones laborales, complementariedad institucional y equilibrio entre flexibilidad externa e interna, los efectos son distintos. A partir de datos de 20 países de la OCDE para 1985–2008, el autor observa que en los mercados corporativistas, una legislación de protección del empleo estricta correlaciona con desempleo bajo. Al incluir variables macroeconómicas se observa que, en recesión, el desempleo aumenta con tipos de interés reales elevados, baja acumulación de capital y políticas sociales restrictivas.
An Application of Computer‐Aided Molecular Design (CAMD) Using the Signature Molecular Descriptor—Part 1. Identification of Surface Tension Reducing Agents and the Search for Shrinkage Reducing Admixtures
Authors: Kayello Hamed M. , Tadisina Naresh K. R. , Shlonimskaya Natalia , Biernacki Joseph J. , Visco Donald P.
Published: July 2013

The development of new admixtures for concrete is normally an experimental endeavor in that the molecular scaffolds of existing admixtures are modified and tested. This approach is time consuming, incremental and typically expensive. Alternatively, a computer‐aided molecular design (CAMD) approach is proposed that uses the Signature molecular descriptor. CAMD is the application of computer‐implemented algorithms that are utilized to design molecules with optimally predicted properties such that they can be tested and evaluated for efficacy. The property of interest here is the surface tension of compounds in aqueous solutions as this property is related to shrinkage in concrete. In particular, we have chosen two classes of compounds, amines and glycol ethers, as they present opportunities for use as shrinkage reducing admixtures (SRAs). By evaluating the initial surface tension reduction in these compounds in solution with water, a number of structure–property conjectures associated with the effect of these compounds were developed. From these conjectures, 14 compounds were identified and utilized as a training set for the CAMD of new compounds. After creating and refining a quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) model for surface tension reduction, a structure enumeration algorithm was employed to generate structures outside of the original training set that have optimally predicted properties. In work, the CAMD approach is introduced as well as the identification of new compounds with the greatest predicted impact on the surface tension reduction in water. Furthermore, the surface tension reduction for the newly identified compounds was experimentally evaluated.
Characterizing Weave Geometry in Textile Ceramic Composites Using Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Rossol Michael N. , Shaw John H. , Bale Hrishikesh , Ritchie Robert O. , Marshall David B. , Zok Frank W.
Published: July 2013

Techniques for characterizing tow architectures and defects in woven ceramic composites are required for generating high‐fidelity geometric models and subsequently probing effects of defects on composite performance. Although X‐ray computed tomography (CT) has been shown to provide the requisite information with potentially sub‐μm resolution, the technique is inherently limited to probing only small volumes: on the order of a few unit cells of typical weaves. Here, we present an assessment of the efficacy of a complementary 2D technique, based on surface topography mapping via 3‐D (three‐dimensional) digital image correlation (DIC), with potential for ascertaining long‐range features in weaves and defects that cannot be gleaned from CT imaging alone. Upon comparing surfaces reconstructed from CT and DIC data, we find that DIC is capable of resolving surface heights with a root mean square(RMS) error of ~10 μm (about twice the CT voxel size, 4.4 μm) and a spatial resolution of ~20 μm over areas of several cm2. Achieving this level of resolution requires use of sufficiently small speckles (~50 μm) and small subset size (~300 μm) relative to the characteristic tow dimensions (~1 mm). The error is somewhat higher (about 20 μm) in areas where surface discontinuities or rapid changes in topography exist (e.g., at tow boundaries).
Influence of the Field and the Current Limit on Flash Sintering at Isothermal Furnace Temperatures
Authors: Francis John S. C. , Raj Rishi
Published: July 2013

We report, for the first time, the observation of an incubation time for the onset of flash sintering in experiments carried out at isothermal furnace temperatures. The incubation time varies highly nonlinearly with the strength of the DC field, akin to a nucleation‐like phenomenon. The setting of the maximum current at the power supply has a significant influence on the extent of densification. The hold time at these current settings has an influence on the grain size increasing it with time and the magnitude of the current setting. The experiments were carried out on 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia. In all instances the specimen temperatures during flash sintering, estimated from a previously validated blackbody radiation model remain well below the temperatures that would be required for conventional sintering of yttria‐stabilized zirconia. Taken together these observations imply a nucleation of defect avalanche as a possible mechanism for flash sintering.
Ultrafast Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis of BiFeO3 Nanoplates
Authors: Li Shun , Nechache Riad , Davalos Ivan Alejandro Velasco , Goupil Gregory , Nikolova Liliya , Nicklaus Mischa , Laverdiere Jonathan , Ruediger Andreas , Rosei Federico
Published: July 2013

We report the synthesis of {100}c facets exposed single‐crystalline BiFeO3 (BFO) nanoplates, with thickness ranging from 20 to 160 nm and lateral size of submicrometers, via a simple and very rapid (1–2 min) microwave‐assisted hydrothermal approach. We show that the microwave treatment gives comparable improvement in crystallinity of BFO nanocrystals with respect to traditional hydrothermal processes while requiring significantly less time and energy. In addition, we show that microwave radiation power, reaction time, and alkali concentration play important roles in the crystallinity and morphology of the products. We discuss a possible formation mechanism of the nanoplates based on our experimental results. Additionally, the BFO nanoplates exhibit weak ferromagnetic properties at room temperature, which we attribute to the size‐confinement effect on magnetic ordering. The present microwave hydrothermal method has great potential in large‐scale fabrication of BFO nanomaterials as well as other composite functional materials due to significantly reduced time and energy.
What do we know about skin‐hygiene care for patients with bariatric needs? Implications for nursing practice
Authors: Cowdell Fiona , Radley Kathy
Published: July 2013

Aim

This article presents a discussion of the current state of knowledge about bariatric skin‐hygiene care and whether this is sufficient to underpin evidence‐based nursing practice.

Background

The challenges of providing bariatric skin‐hygiene care are highlighted and include managing specific skin changes with associated risk of skin breakdown and practical management needs. The risk of skin breakdown is high and can have a devastating impact on well‐being and increased treatment costs.

Data sources

A four‐stage search strategy included: (i) literature search using electronic databases from inception–May 2013; (ii) hand search of selected journals; (iii) review of internet‐based guidelines, policies or protocols and (iv) contact with clinical experts.

Discussion

There is a dearth of robust evidence on bariatric skin‐hygiene care. Whilst a range of information and guidelines exist, these are generally based on expert opinion and often used only in a local context.

Implications for nursing

Nurses are increasingly faced with the challenge of providing skin‐hygiene care for patients with bariatric needs. At present, care is largely based on custom and practice or clinical opinion; this limits capacity to provide optimum evidence‐based nursing care.

Conclusion

As the prevalence of people needing bariatric skin‐hygiene care continues to increase, there is a lack of evidence to inform interventions and hence a growing need for further research in this challenging clinical area to help nurses and patients select the best possible interventions that will meet individual personal‐hygiene needs and preserve skin integrity.
Island biogeography of mutualistic interaction networks
Authors: Trøjelsgaard Kristian , Báez Marcos , Espadaler Xavier , Nogales Manuel , Oromí Pedro , Roche Francisco La , Olesen Jens M.
Published: July 2013

Aim

The seminal theory of island biogeography, based on changing rates of immigration and extinction, should be seen in a geological context, as an island's maturity influences the richness of its biota. Here, we develop an island biogeography of biotic interactions, recognizing that, besides species richness, biodiversity also encompasses the multitude of interactions among species. By sampling interactions between plants and pollinators across the Canarian archipelago, we illustrate how the local richness, specialization and endemism of biotic interactions vary with island age and area.

Location

Canary Islands (27.62° N–29.42° N and 13.33° W–18.17° W).

Methods

On five islands, covering the full age range of the archipelago, plant–pollinator interactions were catalogued and their strength estimated. Network parameters (e.g. interaction richness and specialization) and the number of single‐island interactions (equivalent to single‐island endemics) were estimated from interaction matrices and related to island area and age.

Results

Plant species richness, interaction richness and average degree of specialization of pollinator species showed hump‐shaped relationships with island age. Pollinator richness varied with island area and plant richness. Plant specialization increased with island age, and the proportion of single‐island interactions (pSII) exhibited a U‐shaped relationship with age.

Main conclusions

The previously reported hump‐shaped relationship between species richness and island age, both on the scale of islands and of habitats, was confirmed for plant species in local networks. Both plants and pollinators were more generalized on the youngest island, which may be due to a predominance of generalist colonists. Pollinator specialization peaked on mid‐aged islands, whereas plants showed the highest specialization on old islands, potentially reflecting their different life histories. The U‐shaped relationship between the proportion of single‐island interactions and island age might be explained by (1) young islands having a high proportion of unique interactions, due to interactions between generalists, and (2) old islands having unique interactions due to an accumulation of unique pairwise interactions that have evolved through time. Thus, island age – which not only captures time per se, but also the geomorphological changes of islands – may act as a regional driver of local network structure, and so the contemporary networks we observed across the Canarian archipelago illustrate the development of a network through geological time.
Medication Class Effects on Visit‐to‐Visit Variability of Blood Pressure Measurements: Analysis of Electronic Health Record Data in the “Real World”
Authors: Smith Timothy R. , Drozda Joseph P. , Vanslette Jeffrey A. , Hoeffken Amanda S. , Nicholson Robert A.
Published: July 2013

Blood pressure (BP) visit‐to‐visit variability (VVV) influences the risk of vascular events and mortality. Research has suggested that antihypertensive medication classes may differentially impact VVV. This study evaluated whether antihypertensive medication class differentially impacted BP VVV among hypertensive individuals in a clinical, “real‐world” setting as well as the association between VVV and patient characteristics. Clinical observational data were extracted for adults (mean age, 63; 56% female, 86% Caucasian) with hypertension from the Mercy EpicCare EHR‐Derived Database (MEDD) (n=183,374) who had at least 4 outpatient visits with BP readings. A multilevel mixed model for change over time estimated between‐ and within‐subject effects on the absolute real VVV of systolic BP. Diuretics significantly lowered VVV (β=−0.32[−0.39 to−0.25]) and α‐/β‐blockers resulted in the highest VVV (β=0.89 [0.77–1.00]). Being older, female, and having a higher systolic BP and certain comorbid conditions significantly raised VVV (P<.001). The findings from the MEDD were consistent in general with other research on BP VVV. However, the magnitude of effect of antihypertensive medication class and patient characteristics was relatively low (<10% of the BP VVV variance for any one variable). More research is needed to evaluate the extent to which the class of antihypertensive medication class impacts BP VVV in the outpatient setting.
The interacting effect of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and stressful life events on adolescent depression is not an artifact of gene–environment correlation: evidence from a longitudinal twin study
Authors: Chen Jie , Li Xinying , McGue Matt
Published: July 2013

Background

Confounding introduced by gene–environment correlation (rGE) may prevent one from observing a true gene–environment interaction (G × E) effect on psychopathology. The present study investigated the interacting effect of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and stressful life events (SLEs) on adolescent depression while controlling for the rGE by two means: separating pure environmental factors (independent SLEs) from the environmental factors under partial genetic control (dependent SLEs) and adopting a prospective longitudinal design.

Methods

A total of 780 pairs of Chinese twins, aged 11–17 years (mean = 13.6, SD = 1.8) at intake, were followed up twice. Self‐reported depression symptoms at Time 1 and Time 2 were assessed by the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI). SLEs occurring between Time 1 and Time 2 were assessed by a self‐reported checklist. SLEs were differentiated into independent and dependent ones and were validated by heritability analyses using twin design. The interacting effects between the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and numbers of SLEs (total SLEs and independent SLEs) on intraindividual change of depression symptoms were examined.

Results

After controlling for sex, age, age square, and Time 1 depression, both total SLEs × BDNF Val66Met genotype and independent SLEs × BDNF Val66Met genotype significantly predicted Time 2 depression. Val allele carriers (Val/Val and Val/Met) were more susceptible to the detrimental effects of stress.

Conclusions

There is a true G × E effect underlying the observed interaction between BDNF Val66Met polymorphism and environmental stress on depression.
Chemical and Microbiological Changes in Blueberries and in Hypertonic Solution during Osmotic Dehydration Employing Reused Concentrate
Authors: Kucner Anna , Papiewska Agnieszka , Sójka Michał , Klewicki Robert
Published: July 2013

Dehydration was carried out in 65°Brix sucrose solution at 40C for 120 min. The solution was used 15 times, each time a new batch of fruits was processed. Prior to dehydration, the fruits were subjected to pretreatment by immersion in solutions containing pectinolytic and lipolytic enzymes. Following dehydration, the dehydrated material and osmotic solution were tested for the content of dry matter (36.6 ± 3.3% [w/w] and 58–61°Brix, respectively), total polyphenols (1,738 ± 289 mg/100 g initial dry matter [IDM]), anthocyanins (606 ± 58 mg/100 g IDM) and flavan‐3‐ols (695 ± 139 mg/100 g IDM). The highest retention of anthocyanins was observed for cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (over 81%), petunidin‐3‐O‐glucoside, malvidin‐3‐O‐arabinoside and malvidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (over 74%). The average retention of procyanidins in fruits was 77%. The pH value of the hypertonic solution remained at the level of 3.4–3.7. The syrup used for osmotic dehydration was characterized by a relatively low quantity of mesophilic bacteria (<103 cfu/mL) but a higher contamination with osmotolerant yeasts and molds (from 1 × 103 to 2.5 × 104 cfu/mL).

Practical Applications

The article deals with osmotic dehydration, which is a method that allows a partial removal of water from plant material. Using this method, one can obtain high‐quality products because the water removal is conducted without phase change. However, considerable amounts of hypertonic solution (used for osmotic dehydration) pose a problem. Management of spent syrup is one of the most important problems related to osmotic dewatering. Thus, repeated use of hypertonic solution is indispensable; however, it may have an influence on the product quality. The paper presents the chemical and microbiological changes that occur during osmotic dehydration of highbush blueberry fruits over 15 cycles employing reused sucrose solution. Prior to dehydration, the fruits were subjected to pretreatment by immersion in solutions containing pectinolytic and (which is a new approach to pretreatment before osmotic dehydration) lipolytic enzymes. The results indicate that applied procedure enables to obtain osmodehydrated berries without a large decrease in the product quality.
Fracture Behavior of Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) under Ambient and Cryogenic Conditions
Authors: Sridhar B.S. , Sommer K.
Published: July 2013

The present study involves the characterization of fracture properties of spice turmeric (Curcuma longa) under ambient and cryogenic conditions (−54C). Material properties needed for fracture mechanism prediction, particle characterization and etheric oil analyses were experimentally determined on turmeric powder produced under ambient and cryogenic processes. The results of stress‐strain behavior of turmeric showed that there was an increased particle strength, modulus of elasticity and maximum stress intensity and decreased strain energy as the size and temperature was lowered. All forms of size reduction showed decrease in sphericity as size decreased and were greater for cryogenic grinding as compared to conventional grinding. The average work of fracture under ambient and cryogenic conditions was found to be 8.86 ± 1.74 and 5.66 ± 1.68 J/m2, respectively. The studies showed attainment of better quality parameters under low temperature conditions and provide useful engineering data for designing mechanical equipment.

Practical Applications

Food and biological materials are subjected to various physical treatments and devices from the farm to the consumer. It is essential to understand the fracture behavior governing the response of these biological materials so that the machines and processes can be designed for maximum efficiency and the highest quality of the end products. This article presents the determination of fracture properties of spice turmeric (C. longa) under ambient and cryogenic conditions prior to size reduction.
Urban Metabolism and the Energy Stored in Cities
Authors: Bristow David N. , Kennedy Christopher A.
Published: July 2013

Using the city of Toronto as a case study, this article examines impacts of energy stocks and flexible demand in the urban metabolism on the resilience of the city, including discussion of directions for further study of the resiliency of the urban metabolism. An important element developed is the nominal residence time of the energy stocks. This value defines how long an energy stock lasts under typical patterns of energy use. The findings suggest that the residence times of many sources of energy overcome vulnerability when energy supply shocks last on the order of hours or a few days, but that the measure is limited to assessing only certain types of commonly used energy sources in aggregate terms. Discussion is included on the uncertainty of this measure and on the metabolic and resiliency implications of new technologies intended to reduce energy use and improve sustainability of cities and the use of the urban metabolism as a means of comparison. The methodology employed highlights how waste energy could be used to increase the resiliency of the city's water supply, but also how the study of the urban metabolism would benefit from a more disaggregate form in the study of sustainable and resilient cities.
Stock Market Comovements and Industrial Structure
Authors: DUTT PUSHAN , MIHOV ILIAN
Published: July 2013

We use monthly stock indices for 58 countries to construct pairwise correlations of returns and explain these correlations with risk‐adjusted differences in industrial structure across countries. We find that countries with similar industries exhibit higher stock market comovements. The results are robust to the inclusion of other regressors such as differences in income per capita, stock market capitalizations, measures of institutions, as well as various fixed time, country, and country‐pair effects. Our results are consistent with models where the impact of each industry‐specific shock is proportional to the share of this industry in the overall industrial output of the country.
Disappearing Dividends: Implications for the Dividend–Price Ratio and Return Predictability
Authors: KIM CHANG‐JIN , PARK CHEOLBEOM
Published: July 2013

The conventional dividend–price ratio is highly persistent, and the literature reports mixed evidence on its role in predicting stock returns. We argue that the decreasing number of firms with a traditional dividend‐payout policy is responsible for these results, and develop a model in which the long‐run relationship between the dividends and stock price is time varying. An adjusted dividend–price ratio that accounts for the time‐varying long‐run relationship is considerably less persistent. Furthermore, the predictive regression model that employs the adjusted dividend–price ratio as a regressor outperforms the random‐walk model. These results are robust with respect to the firm size.
Maize Diversity and the Political Economy of Agrarian Restructuring in Guatemala
Authors: Isakson S. Ryan
Published: July 2013

The neoliberal restructuring of agriculture is often predicated on the promise of a more efficient food system: other objectives, such as access to food, the environmental sustainability of production practices, the nutritional composition of diets and the rights of food producers, are largely ignored. In this paper, I document how the liberalization of trade and agricultural policies in Guatemala has undermined the latter set of objectives, thereby compromising domestic food sovereignty and global food security. In particular, I demonstrate how neoliberal policies have undermined maize agriculture and contributed to the loss of crop genetic resources in the Guatemalan ‘megacentre’ of agricultural biodiversity. In its place, small‐scale farmers have been encouraged to conform to the country's purported comparative advantage in non‐traditional export crops. The results have been widening inequality, a growing dependence upon imported grain and agrochemicals, environmental degradation and decreased food security.