bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidation of Silicon Carbide Fibers During Static Fatigue in Air at Intermediate Temperatures
Authors: Gauthier Wilfried , Pailler Frédéric , Lamon Jacques , Pailler Rene
Published: July 2009

The static fatigue of SiC‐based fiber bundles and single fibers has been examined in previous papers, with emphasis placed on the analysis of the stress–rupture time data, and on the modelling of delayed failure from slow crack growth. The present paper investigates the oxidation of the fibers during static fatigue, at temperatures in the intermediate temperature range (500°–800°C). Two oxidation‐induced phenomena have been evidenced: the formation of a thin silica film at the surface of fibers and the delayed failure of fiber bundles and single filaments. The stress–rupture time data are interpreted with respect to the chemical and structural characteristics of fibers, and to the oxide film growth rate. The structural analysis of the fibers was carried out using scanning electron microscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. Delayed failure was found to result from slow crack propagation from surface defects, as a result of the consumption of the free carbon at grain boundaries and the local stresses induced by the SiC→SiO2 transformation at the crack tip. The respective contributions of these phenomena to static fatigue are discussed.
Facile Fabrication of Pure α‐Fe2O3 Nanoparticles via Forced Hydrolysis Using Microwave‐Assisted Esterification and their Sensing Property
Authors: Li Yafeng , Li Hongfang , Cao Rong
Published: July 2009

In this paper we firstly demonstrate a facile approach for the rapid fabrication of α‐Fe2O3 using microwave‐assisted esterification. In situ‐generated water leads to the forced hydrolysis of Fe3+. Microwave irradiation greatly promotes the growth of α‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles compared with conventional solvothermal approach, and agitation can assure the obtainment of pure hematite phase. The akaganeite phase is preserved without stirring. The BET specific surface area reaches 83 m2/g although high concentration of FeCl3 is adopted. Our approach can assure the very rapid acquisition of hematite nanoparticles. Electrochemical studies indicate that our product can function as a candidate for high‐performance sensor.
Structure and Properties of Low Phonon Antimony Glasses in the K2O–B2O3–Sb2O3–ZnO System
Authors: Som Tirtha , Karmakar Basudeb
Published: July 2009

The monolithic glass‐forming region of the low phonon and low softening point antimony glasses containing high Sb2O3 (40–75 mol%) in the novel quaternary K2O–B2O3–Sb2O3–ZnO system has been found with the help of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The structure of a series of glasses with the general composition of (mol%) 15K2O–15B2O3–(70−x)Sb2O3–xZnO (where x=5–25) has been evaluated by infrared reflection spectral (FT‐IRRS) analyses. All the glasses are found to possess a low phonon energy of around 600 cm−1, as revealed by FT‐IRRS. Their softening point (Ts), glass transition temperature (Tg), and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) have been found to vary in the ranges of 351°–379°C, 252°–273°C, and 195–218 × 10−7 K−1, respectively. These properties are found to be controlled by their fundamental property, like the covalent character of the glasses, which is found to increase with an increase in Sb2O3 content. In addition, the devitrified glasses have been characterized by XRD and field emission scanning electron microscopy, which manifests the presence of nanozinc antimony oxide crystals with sizes of 21–43 nm. The exhibited properties have revealed that they are a new class of versatile materials.
Differentiation of Twenty‐One Glitter Lip‐Glosses by Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy*
Authors: Zellner Megan , Quarino Lawrence
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Differentiation of 21 glitter lip‐glosses from seven manufacturers was attempted by pyrolysis gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy. Samples were pyrolyzed on a ribbon probe at 800°C for 20 sec and analyzed with an Agilent® 6890N Network GC System and Agilent® 5973 Network Mass Selective Detector with MSD Productivity ChemStation® Data Analysis software. The total ion chromatograms obtained were examined and differences in the presence or absence of certain chromatographic peaks corresponding to certain pyrolysis products (e.g., styrene, cyclohexane) noted. In cases where the total ion chromatograms between lip‐glosses were similar, select ion profiling was performed. Of the 21 lip‐glosses, 15 were differentiated by either the total ion chromatograms alone or through select ion profiling. Considering that lip‐glosses are typically worn by young women (who are disproportionately victims of sexual assault), this study offers the potential of being able to provide investigative leads in sexual assault investigations with evidentiary samples of this kind.
The Corporate Gaze ‐ Transparency and Other Corporate Visions
Authors: Garsten Christina
Published: July 2009

In an expanding global economy, the notion of ‘transparency’ has gained increasing currency as an organizational goal. In a wide variety of situations, increased transparency is held up as a preferred point of direction for organizations, public as well as private. The notion of transparency implies visibility, possibilities for seeing through, for seeing, and being been. It carries hopes for more just procedures and open decision making processes. It suggests higher degrees of clarity, rationality and accountability. Transparency, then, is an entry‐point to the understanding of contemporary society and culture and the visions and challenges that are attached to it.

The placing of transparency on the corporate agenda is evinced in the creation of corporate codes of conduct and standards for corporate social accountability. Through workshops, training sessions and consultancy services, corporate actors are learning how to ‘open their books’ to public scrutiny and judgement. We see it in ways of measuring and ranking performance and procedural outcomes. It is evinced as well in the use information technology and architectural design, ranging from online calendars to glassed buildings. Yet, processes of making visible certain kinds of information also involve complex negotiations regarding what shall be displayed and what shall remain hidden. It is not always in the best interest of a corporation to reveal valuable information. For example, companies often have to be reticent about providing information that may rob them of their competitive edge, and may have strong interests in being secretive about certain aspects of their activities.

The paper addresses the significance of ‘transparency’ for the understanding of contemporary organizational life. What broader social trends and fashions inform the call for transparency in organizations? How is transparency manifested in organizational practices? What are some of the advanteges and challenges in pursuing transparency? Such questions, and other issues, will be addressed in this presentation
The Invisible Work of Being a Patient and Implications for Health Care: “[the doctor is] my business partner in the most important business in my life, staying alive.”
Authors: UNRUH KENTON T. , PRATT WANDA
Published: July 2009

In a distributed system of care, patients shuffle among many clinicians and spend the majority of their time away from the treatment center. Although we see the results of patients' work (e.g., medication taken, arrived at appointment) we do not see the work itself. By failing to see this work, industry overlooks issues with vital implications for their business. To lift the veil of invisibility from patients' work, we conducted a longitudinal field study to uncover the invisible work breast cancer patients do to obtain information, bridge interinstitutional care, manage dependencies and resolve inconsistent recommendations. In this paper we provide detailed examples of this work and explore the impact on patients and health‐care operations; identify patterns of work with implications for patient‐centered research and design; and propose common information spaces to improve patients' work through designs that highlight dependencies, preserve state information, link recommendations to justifications, and track task progress.
PATRICIA SUNDERLAND
Authors:   Practica Group, LLC
Published: July 2009

The papers in this section address issues that have long been of deep concern among anthropologists and other researchers working in the ethnographic tradition: the dynamics of power and representation within the field as well as during later utilizations of ethnographic work. Spanning discussions of the value of putting both choice and cameras in the hands of respondents to the unexpected virtues of the traditional essay form for corporate audiences, these papers invite us to rethink our assumptions of what is possible. In the end, the authors offer hope, inspiration, and solutions.
Putting Mobility on the Map: Researching Journeys and the Research Journey
Authors: ROBERTS SIMON
Published: July 2009

This paper, based on a fieldwork conducted with community transport projects in rural Ireland, examines the place of mobility in the lives of older people. It uses the idea of journey to explore what mobility means to older people, what the research made visible to a diverse range of project stakeholders and to reflect on the nature of ethnographic projects in industry settings. For passengers, the journeying is often as important as the destination — travelling creates visibility of countryside, community and communion with others. For project stakeholders, the research encouraged a view of mobility that transcends travel because it highlighted the world beyond the bus. For researchers, the project created challenges to the dominant view of technology for ageing‐in‐place within their own organization. Finally, reflections are made on industry ethnography as a journey with often unknown destinations.
Sustaining Stories: The Versatile Life of Sustained, In‐house, Ethnographic Practice in a Global Software Company
Authors: HANSON NATALIE D. , SARMIENTO‐KLAPPER JOHANN W.
Published: July 2009

Ethnographers, in a sense, play the role of story creators, storytellers, and, often, preservers of such stories. The narratives produced and the fieldwork from which they emerge make visible trajectories of practice—for both subjects and researchers—which can be traced both retrospectively and projectively. For “in‐house” ethnographers engaged in the sustained work of making sense of and contributing to organizations, a unique challenge emerges: discovering and managing the retrospective and prospective meaning of their storytelling and its visibility. Here we reflect on the challenges and opportunities of sustaining ethnographic inquiry in a large global software company. Reflecting on close to ten years of participant observation, we outline some of our practices related to positioning, re‐framing, and expanding the visibility of our work and our organizational roles; a dynamic that continues to shape our practice and its relevance within this corporate environment.
Strangers or Kin? Exploring Marketing's Relationship to Design Ethnography and New Product Development
Authors: WILNER SARAH JS
Published: July 2009

Marketers represent a particularly significant class of colleagues that corporate ethnographers must engage with, with a central role both in commissioning fieldwork and converting its findings into marketplace offerings. This paper explores the interaction between the two functions, asking, “What is the relationship between marketing and design ethnography and how does each function inform—or inhibit—the other?” A review of the various streams of academic literature related to marketing's role in product development and innovation is presented, with particular emphasis on scholars' growing attention to the cultural context(s) of consumption as well as the use of ethnography in consumer research. Consonant with the 2008 conference theme of (In)Visibility, the paper considers how the divergent perspectives of marketers and corporate ethnographers create mutual tension and can render each discipline “blind” to the value of the other's work.
Hitchhiking of Cu/Zn Superoxide Dismutase to Peroxisomes – Evidence for a Natural Piggyback Import Mechanism in Mammals
Authors: Islinger Markus , Li Ka Wan , Seitz Jürgen , Völkl Alfred , Lüers Georg H.
Published: July 2009

Most newly synthesized peroxisomal proteins are imported in a receptor‐mediated fashion, depending on the interaction of a peroxisomal targeting signal (PTS) with its cognate targeting receptor Pex5 or Pex7 located in the cytoplasm. Apart from this classic mechanism, heterologous protein complexes that have been proposed more than a decade ago are also to be imported into peroxisomes. However, it remains still unclear if this so‐called piggyback import is of physiological relevance in mammals. Here, we show that Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), an enzyme without an endogenous PTS, is targeted to peroxisomes using its physiological interaction partner ‘copper chaperone of SOD1’ (CCS) as a shuttle. Both proteins have been identified as peroxisomal constituents by 2D‐liquid chromatography mass spectrometry of isolated rat liver peroxisomes. Yet, while a major fraction of CCS was imported into peroxisomes in a PTS1‐dependent fashion in CHO cells, overexpressed SOD1 remained in the cytoplasm. However, increasing the concentrations of both CCS and SOD1 led to an enrichment of SOD1 in peroxisomes. In contrast, CCS‐mediated SOD1 import into peroxisomes was abolished by deletion of the SOD domain of CCS, which is required for heterodimer formation. SOD1/CCS co‐import is the first demonstration of a physiologically relevant piggyback import into mammalian peroxisomes.
Behavioral phenotype of maLPA1‐null mice: increased anxiety‐like behavior and spatial memory deficits
Authors: Santin L. J. , Bilbao A. , Pedraza C. , Matas‐Rico E. , López‐Barroso D. , Castilla‐Ortega E. , Sánchez‐López J. , Riquelme R. , Varela‐Nieto I. , De La Villa P. , Suardíaz M. , Chun J. , De Fonseca F. Rodriguez , Estivill‐Torrús G.
Published: July 2009

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) has emerged as a new regulatory molecule in the brain. Recently, some studies have shown a role for this molecule and its LPA1 receptor in the regulation of plasticity and neurogenesis in the adult brain. However, no systematic studies have been conducted to investigate whether the LPA1 receptor is involved in behavior. In this study, we studied the phenotype of maLPA1‐null mice, which bear a targeted deletion at the lpa1 locus, in a battery of tests examining neurologic performance, habituation in exploratory behavior in response to low and mild anxiety environments and spatial memory. MaLPA1‐null mutants showed deficits in both olfaction and somesthesis, but not in retinal or auditory functions. Sensorimotor co‐ordination was impaired only in the equilibrium and grasping reflexes. The mice also showed impairments in neuromuscular strength and analgesic response. No additional differences were observed in the rest of the tests used to study sensoriomotor orientation, limb reflexes and co‐ordinated limb use. At behavioral level, maLPA1‐null mice showed an impaired exploration in the open field and increased anxiety‐like response when exposed to the elevated plus maze. Furthermore, the mice exhibit impaired spatial memory retention and reduced use of spatial strategies in the Morris water maze. We propose that the LPA1 receptor may play a major role in both spatial memory and response to anxiety‐like conditions.
A major QTL on chromosome 11 influences psychostimulant and opioid sensitivity in mice
Authors: Bryant C. D. , Chang H. P. , Zhang J. , Wiltshire T. , Tarantino L. M. , Palmer A. A.
Published: July 2009

The identification of genes influencing sensitivity to stimulants and opioids is important for determining their mechanism of action and may provide fundamental insights into the genetics of drug abuse. We used a panel of C57BL/6J (B6; recipient)× A/J (donor) chromosome substitution strains (CSSs) to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for both open field activity and sensitivity to the locomotor stimulant response to methamphetamine (MA). Mice were injected with saline (days 1 and 2) and MA (day 3; 2 mg/kg i.p.). We analyzed the total distance traveled in the open field for 30 min following each injection. CSS‐8, ‐11 and ‐16 showed reduced MA‐induced locomotor activity relative to B6, whereas CSS‐10 and ‐12 showed increased MA‐induced locomotor activity. Further analysis focused on CSS‐11 because it was robustly different from B6 following MA injection, but did not differ in activity following saline injection and because it also showed reduced locomotor activity in response to the mu‐opioid receptor agonist fentanyl (0.2 mg/kg i.p.). Thus, CSS‐11 captures QTLs for the response to both psychostimulants and opioids. Using a B6 × CSS‐11 F2intercross, we identified a dominant QTL for the MA response on chromosome 11. We used haplotype association mapping of cis expression QTLs and bioinformatic resources to parse among genes within the 95% confidence interval of the chromosome 11 QTL. Identification of the genes underlying QTLs for response to psychostimulants and opioids may provide insights about genetic factors that modulate sensitivity to drugs of abuse.
Histogenesis of Abrikossoff tumour of the oral cavity
Authors: Haikal F , Maceira JP , Dias EP , Ramos‐e‐Silva M
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Abrikossoff or granular cell tumour (GCT) is a relatively rare neoplasia, benign in most of the cases. It may occur in any part of the human body, but it has an oral location in 70% of the cases. Its origin has been discussed for decades, and it is not yet definitively determined. Immunohistochemical techniques suggest its origin in the Schwann cells, while more recent studies with new markers indicate an origin related to neuroendocrine cells.

Objective:  Contribute to the clarification of histogenesis of oral Abrikossoff tumour studying immunohistochemical marking of 11 oral Brazilian cases.

Materials and methods:  Samples of tissues from the oral mucosa, tongue and lips placed in paraffin blocks, from eleven patients with a histopathological diagnosis of benign GCT were studied. Four different anti‐serums (S‐100, vimentin, PGP9.5 and ENE) were used for immunoperoxydase technique.

Results:  A clear positivity for S‐100 protein and vimentin was observed, with markers indicating origin from the Schwann cells. Less intense positivity was found in some cases, for ENE and PGP9.5, which suggests a neuroendocrine origin.

Conclusions:  The results obtained suggest an origin from Schwann cells, but also arise the possibility of neuroendocrine origin. New methods and more specific immunohistochemical markers are needed to elucidate the origin of the Abrikossoff tumour.
Effects of Workload on Seat Pressure While Cycling with Two Different Saddles
Authors: Carpes Felipe Pivetta , Dagnese Frederico , Kleinpaul Julio Francisco , Martins Elisandro de Assis , Mota Carlos Bolli
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Seat pressure during cycling and its relationship to urological disorders have been discussed extensively in recently published literature. The effects of exercise configuration on seat pressure, however, still have not been fully investigated.

Aim

This study evaluates the effects of two different pedaling workloads and two saddle designs on saddle pressure in 22 (11 men and 11 women) recreational cyclists (bicycling <2 hours per week).

Methods

Seat pressure was measured in the saddle surface while pedaling at workloads of 150 and 300 W using a plain and a holed saddle model, both without any gel cushion characteristics. Analysis of variance was applied to compare seat pressure between situations.

Main Outcome Measure

Study the importance of bicycle saddle pressure.

Results

Mean seat pressure was not different between men and women. For the plain saddle, the men’s average seat pressure increased as the workload increased. Using a holed saddle, the mean pressure increased as the workload increased, regardless of gender.

Conclusions

The increase of workload increased the seat pressure for the subjects, with the main effects dependent on workload. The use of a holed saddle was not directly related to lesser seat pressure during cycling. Our results support our understanding of a similarity between genders related to mean seat pressure, and suggest that different workload ranges may present different results for seat pressure.
Prevalence and Potential Risk Factors of Female Sexual Difficulties: An Urban Iranian Population-Based Study
Authors: Goshtasebi Azita , Vahdaninia Mariam , Rahimi Foroshani Abbas
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction is common, a multifactorial phenomenon with a potential to cause marital strain, impaired fertility, and poor quality of life. Epidemiologic data are scarce and little is known about the prevalence of sexual difficulties and the exact role of putative risk factors in Iran.

Aim

To determine the prevalence of female sexual difficulties and the potential risk factors in an urban Iranian population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed in the province of Kohgilooyeh–Boyerahmad (KB) in the southwest of Iran and involved sexually active urban women aged 15 years and over, selected via a quota-based cluster sampling method. The study used an ad hoc questionnaire covering the demographic and reproductive variables as well as the data related to sexual difficulties. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression models. The main outcome measures were the prevalence rates and the predictors of sexual difficulties.

Main Outcome Measures

The prevalence of female sexual difficulties and the associated risk factors.

Results

One thousand four hundred fifty-six sexually active women living in the urban areas of KB province in 2005 were selected. The mean age of the sample was 34.04 ± 9.2 (16–71) years and the mean number of completed grades was 7.18 (±4.8). More than 52% of the participants had experienced at least one type of sexual difficulty. The greatest and smallest frequencies were observed for orgasm difficulty (21.3%, confidence interval[CI]0.95 = 19.2–23.4%) and lubrication difficulty (11.9%, CI0.95 = 10.2–13.6%). Age, education, contraceptive modality, and obstetric/gynecologic procedures were all associated with at least one type of sexual dysfunction.

Conclusion

Similar to previous studies, we found a relatively high prevalence of sexual difficulties in this urban population of low socioeconomic status. However, our results concerning the role of some demographic and reproductive variables in producing sexual difficulties were different from those reported by other researchers.
Short Term Impact on Female Sexual Function of Pelvic Floor Reconstruction with the Prolift Procedure
Authors: Su Tsung-Hsien , Lau Hui-Hsuan , Huang Wen-Chu , Chen Shwu-Shiuang , Lin Tzu-Yin , Hsieh Ching-Hung , Yeh Ching-Ying
Published: July 2009

Introduction

The Prolift system is an effective and safe procedure using mesh reinforcement for vaginal reconstruction of pelvic organ prolapse (POP), but its effect on sexual function is unclear.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of transvaginal pelvic reconstruction with Prolift on female sexual function at 6 months post-operatively.

Methods

Thirty-three sexually active women who underwent Prolift mesh pelvic floor reconstruction for symptomatic POP were evaluated before and 6 months after surgery. Their sexual function was assessed by using the short form of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) before and after surgery. The quality of life was also evaluated with the short forms of the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) and the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7) as a control for efficacy of the procedure. The Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system was used to evaluate the degree of prolapse.

Main Outcome Measures

PISQ-12 scores at 6 months post-operatively.

Results

The total PISQ-12 score decreased from 29.5 ± 9.0 to 19.3 ± 14.7 (P < 0.001), indicating worsening of sexual function 6 months post-operatively. The behavioral, physical, and partner-related domains of PISQ-12 were each significantly reduced (5.2 ± 3.7 vs. 2.9 ± 3.7, P = 0.016; 15.4 ± 4.7 vs. 10.4 ± 8.6, P = 0.001; 8.9 ± 3.8 vs. 6.4 ± 5.5, P = 0.01, respectively). UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores were significantly improved at the 6-month follow-up, as was anatomic recovery. Of the 33 subjects, 24 (73%) had worse sexual function 6 months after the procedure.

Conclusion

The Prolift procedure provided an effective anatomic cure of POP, but it had an adverse effect on sexual function at 6 months after surgery.
The Use of the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) with Cardiac Patients Receiving Home Health Care
Authors: Schneider Julia Stocker , Slowik Linda Haynes
Published: July 2009

PURPOSE.  To identify Nursing Interventions Classification interventions (NICs) commonly provided to cardiac home care patients and to explore differences among patients with coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and patients with other cardiac disorders.

METHODS.  The NICs provided to cardiac home care patients were recorded and analyzed to determine differences in frequencies across cardiac diagnoses.

FINDINGS.  Frequent NICs provided in cardiac home care are similar across diagnoses, and include tissue perfusion management and patient education NICs. Variations can be detected and involve fluid monitoring/management, exercise promotion/teaching, and cardiac care NICs.

CONCLUSIONS.  Differences in nursing care among patients with similar medical diagnoses can be detected using NIC.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  Relevant knowledge of nursing care can be gleaned from analyzing NIC data generated in practice and can be used to plan, evaluate, and determine the effectiveness of nursing care.
FOAM‐MAT FREEZE‐DRYING OF APPLE JUICE PART 1: EXPERIMENTAL DATA AND ANN SIMULATIONS
Authors: RAHARITSIFA NARINDRA , RATTI CRISTINA
Published: July 2009

Freeze‐drying of foamed and nonfoamed apple juice was studied in order to assess if there is a reduction in process time due to foaming. Foams were prepared by whipping apple juice with methylcellulose or egg albumin at different concentrations. Foamed and nonfoamed juice samples having different thickness and different initial weight were frozen at −40C and then freeze‐dried at 20C during 48 h under vacuum. Sample weight loss and temperature were followed at different process times. A mathematical model based on artificial neural networks was developed to represent foam kinetics and temperature curves during freeze‐drying. Foaming reduced process time if the comparison was done at equal sample thickness. However, lower density of foamed materials decreases weight load to the dryer. Unfortunately, the optimization of the process did not permit the determination of a practical minimal foam sample thickness to enhance both drying rate and dryer throughput.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Fruit juice powders have a large application in the food and nutraceutical industries. These powders are used as instant beverages, ingredients for bakery or extruded products and to incorporate in pharmaceutical tablets. Freeze‐drying is an excellent process to obtain a high‐quality fruit juice powder because it offers extraordinary nutritional, structure and sensorial qualities when compared with products of alternative drying process: air, vacuum, microwave and osmotic drying. However, the process cost is expensive due to the long drying times under vacuum. Process acceleration through optimization is therefore necessary in order to obtain high quality in the final products but at lower costs. This study aims to decrease the cost of the freeze‐drying process by using foaming prior to processing to increase the drying rate.
EFFECT OF ELECTRIC CURRENT OF OHMIC HEATING ON NONTHERMAL INJURY TO STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS IN MILK
Authors: SUN HUIXIAN , MASUDA FUYUHIKO , KAWAMURA SHUSO , HIMOTO JUN‐ICHI , ASANO KOZO , KIMURA TOSHINORI
Published: July 2009

We previously reported that ohmic heating had not only a thermal lethal effect but also a nonthermal lethal effect on microorganisms because of the electric current. In order to find the reasons for these lethal effects, experiments on milk sterilization were conducted with Streptococcus thermophilus 21072. Sublethal‐ohmic heating and lethal‐hot‐water heating treatment (ohmic and hot‐water treatment), and sublethal‐hot‐water heating and lethal‐hot‐water heating treatment (hot‐water treatment as a control), were carried out under the condition of identical temperature histories. Microbial counts and calculated decimal reduction times indicated that the ohmic and hot‐water treatment had significantly higher lethality than the hot‐water treatment. However, no sterilizing effect of the electric current on microorganisms was observed during sublethal‐ohmic heating treatment. Compared to sublethal‐hot‐water heating treatment, larger amounts of adenosine triphosphate and lactate dehydrogenase were exuded when the cells were subjected to sublethal‐ohmic heating treatment. Therefore, the electric current of sublethal‐ohmic heating treatment increased the permeability of the cell membrane, resulting in nonthermal injury to S. thermophilus cell membrane.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This technology of ohmic heating will widely apply to milk and other liquid pasteurizations, based on the advantages of rapid and uniform heating, a significant sterilizing effect and a reduction in thermal damage to products compared with conventional heating. The technology of ohmic heating is promising as a more effective and cheaper method for the pasteurization of liquid type food products than conventional methods.
MILLING QUALITY OF HULLED WHEAT BULGUR WITH STONE MILL
Authors: UNAL H. GURAN , SACILIK KAMIL
Published: July 2009

In recent years, hulled wheat species have increased in importance because of their advantageous features as underutilized crops which have provided additional income to farmers and also contributed to agricultural diversification. Einkorn and emmer as two hulled wheat species have been used in this study. The milling quality of these hulled wheats was determined on fixed top stone and fixed bottom stone (FBS) mills at 1.75‐ and 2.5‐mm stone gap levels. The effects of parameters such as stone mill type, stone gap and milling quality of hulled wheat species have been studied. The obtained products have been classified as coarse (over 2 mm), medium (under 2 mm–over 1 mm), fine (under 1 mm) and husky. It reveals that FBS mill has ground in little particles and more unsteadily. This study also indicates that the grinding of emmer has brought along smaller particles due to its spindly structure and 1.75‐mm stone gap has been thought more acceptable because of the less husky product.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Hulled wheat species are very important due to their high nutrition potential. As compared with common wheat, hulled wheats are generally more resistant to diseases and have the ability to withstand drought so they can grow in harsh environments and poor soil. Hulled wheat is especially used for bulgur production because of its delicious taste. The milling operation is one of the most important steps in bulgur production. It needs abrasive mills because of its husky structure. In this study, milling quality of two hulled wheat (emmer and einkorn) bulgurs was determined on stone mills. We believe that the results of this research provide insights into the production of marketable bulgur and the choosing of suitable bulgur mill.
FOAM‐MAT FREEZE‐DRYING OF APPLE JUICE PART 2: STABILITY OF DRY PRODUCTS DURING STORAGE
Authors: RAHARITSIFA NARINDRA , RATTI CRISTINA
Published: July 2009

Sorption isotherms at 5, 20 and 35C and glass transition temperature as a function of water content were evaluated for foamed (3% egg white and 1% methylcellulose) and nonfoamed freeze‐dried apple juice by using the static gravimetric method and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. Equilibrium isotherms were fitted to the Guggenheim–Anderson–de Boer equation, whereas glass transition temperature to the Gordon–Taylor model. After freeze‐drying at 20C during 48 h, the dry products were stored at different temperatures (5 and 20C) under ambient conditions or vacuum. The nutritional, physical and structural properties were assessed before and at the end of the freeze‐drying process and after storage by determining vitamin C content, solubility, color and microstructure. Freeze‐dried nonfoamed juice retained more vitamin C and was more soluble than foamed products after freeze‐drying. However, foam‐mat juice powders presented higher stability during storage at 20C, which agreed with their higher values of glass transition temperature. Freeze‐dried juice stored at this temperature collapsed showing a decrease in solubility and a marked color change.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Quality of dry products depends largely on how they are stored (relative humidity, temperature, presence of light and vacuum). Degradation of flavor, color and texture occur under adverse storage conditions. Nutritional compounds such as vitamins or unsaturated fats could also be negatively affected because of oxidation reactions, which could be a function of the dehydration method or the pretreatment used to manufacture the dry product. The determination stability and quality degradation of foamed and nonfoamed apple juice products during freeze‐drying and storage of the dry products will complete the evaluation of foaming as a potential pretreatment for freeze‐drying.
Functional Outcome Measures in Contemporary Stroke Trials
Authors: Quinn T. J. , Dawson J. , Walters M. R. , Lees K. R.
Published: July 2009

Various instruments are used to describe poststroke functional outcome, with limited consensus as to optimal end-point for clinical trial use. Many of the popular assessment tools are administered with little formal guidance on best practice. Thus there is potential for substantial heterogeneity in functional outcome assessment poststroke, with consequent effects on trial quality. We examined functional assessment methodology in recent stroke trials. We reviewed six journals representing high-impact international publications in the fields of: stroke ( Stroke); neurology ( Neurology, Lancet Neurology) and internal medicine ( Lancet, New England Journal Medicine; Journal of the American Medical Association). Journals were hand searched for all interventional studies in stroke patients between 2001 and 2006 inclusive. Chosen manuscripts were then analyzed for outcome assessment methodology. We identified 126 trials, comprising a mix of early hypothesis generating studies through to multicentre trials (phase I: four trials; phase II: 46 trials; phase III: 20 trials; noninvestigational medicinal product studies: 56 trials). The median number of patients assessed per trial was 100. Across the trials, 47 different outcome measures were used. One hundred trials had functional outcome assessment as the primary study end-point. The median number of outcome measures was two per trial (range 1–9). The modified Rankin scale was the most prevalent outcome assessment (64·3%); followed by Barthel index (40·5%). A minority of trials (33·3%) provided full details on outcome assessment methodology. Among these trials there was substantial heterogeneity in data collection procedures. There is heterogeneity in the use of functional outcome measures in stroke trials. This compromises comparison and meta-analysis. Trialists continue to use poorly validated approaches to outcome assessment. Given the potential effects on data quality, explicit description of methodology should be mandatory for all trials and rigour is desirable.
Hypertension and TIA
Authors: Zhang W. W. , Cadilhac D. A. , Donnan G. A. , O'Callaghan C. , Dewey H. M.
Published: July 2009

Transient ischemic attack is a medical emergency because early stroke risk after transient ischemic attack is high. Hypertension is the most important modifiable risk factor for stroke and transient ischemic attack. The aims of this review are to provide a summary of the current knowledge concerning the relationship between blood pressure and transient ischemic attack, as well as outline issues regarding diurnal variation and the potential of chronotherapy (timing medications to accord with diurnal patterns of blood pressure). There is a strong relationship between hypertension and the incidence of transient ischemic attack and the subsequent short-term risk for stroke. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is a reliable diagnostic and monitoring tool for hypertension and provides additional information about diurnal variation in blood pressure. Different diurnal blood pressure patterns may confer variable stroke risk. Patients with stroke commonly have abnormal diurnal blood pressure patterns and this may relate, in part, to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. However, blood pressure patterns have not been systematically studied in patients with transient ischemic attack. Blood pressure remains poorly controlled in a large proportion of patients after transient ischemic attack and under-treatment and poor adherence are important factors. Chronotherapy for blood pressure may result in more effective blood pressure control. More research is needed in this area. Hypertension is strongly associated with transient ischemic attack. Diurnal blood pressure patterns may influence subsequent stroke risk after transient ischemic attack and more evidence is needed to inform clinical practice to improve blood pressure management for transient ischemic attack patients.
Deep Vein Thrombosis in Stroke Patients Admitted to a Rehabilitation Unit in Singapore
Authors: Kong K.-H. , Chua S. G. K. , Earnest A.
Published: July 2009

Background

Studies have shown that deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is common after an acute stroke. Less common are studies documenting DVT in stroke patients admitted to rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency and risk factors of DVT in stroke patients admitted to a rehabilitation unit in Singapore.

Methods

A prospective observational single-center study of patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke with lower limb paresis admitted to a rehabilitation center in Singapore. The screening protocol consisted of quantitative D-dimer assay (DDA) within 24–48 h of rehabilitation admission followed by duplex ultrasound scan of the paretic lower extremity if DDA level was elevated (equal or greater than 0·34 μg/ml).

Results

Altogether, 341 patients were screened at a mean of 23 days poststroke. One hundred and ninety-eight (58·1%) patients had an elevated DDA and all underwent ultrasound scans. The frequency of lower limb DVT was 9% ( 18 ) – seven proximal and 11 distal. DVT was significantly related to higher D-dimer levels ( P = 0029) and cortical strokes ( P = 0·004), but not to age, gender, race, nature of stroke, atrial fibrillation, severity of lower limb weakness, and ambulatory and functional status. No patients had clinical pulmonary embolism during rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Lower limb DVT is uncommon in stroke patients admitted to rehabilitation in Singapore. Future research should include evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of such a screening protocol.
Quantified T1 As An Adjunct To Apparent Diffusion Coefficient For Early Infarct Detection: A High-Field Magnetic Resonance Study in a Rat Stroke Model
Authors: Kaur J. , Tuor U. I. , Zhao Z. , Petersen J. , Jin A. Y. , Barber P. A.
Published: July 2009

Background

Thrombolytic treatment for acute stroke has focused attention on accurate identification of injured vs. salvageable brain tissue, particularly if reperfusion occurs. However, our knowledge of differences in acute magnetic resonance imaging changes between transient and permanent ischemia and how they reflect permanently damaged tissue remain incomplete.

Aims and/or hypothesis

Magnetic resonance imaging characteristics vary widely following ischemia and, at acute times, T1, T2 or apparent diffusion coefficient quantification may differentiate viable tissue from that destined to infarct.

Methods

High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 9·4T following permanent or transient (90 min) middle cerebral artery occlusion in spontaneously hypertensive male rats or Wistar rats. Within 30 min, quantified maps of the apparent diffusion coefficient, T1, and T2 were performed and measures determined for sequences in the infarct and compared with that in the contralateral region. Lesion area for each magnetic resonance imaging sequence (T1, T2, apparent diffusion coefficient, and perfusion maps) was delineated for different time points using quantitative threshold measures and compared with final histological damage. Results Early extensive changes in T1 following both transient and permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion provided a sensitive early indicator of the final infarct area. Following reperfusion, small but measurable early T2 changes indicative of early development of vasogenic edema occurred in the transient but not permanent groups. In transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, at 70 min apparent diffusion coefficient decreased ( P<0·001) and then pseudonormalized at 150 min. In permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion, apparent diffusion coefficient declined over time. Lesion area detected using T1 maps exceeded that with T2 and apparent diffusion coefficient at 70 and 150 min in both groups ( P<0·001).

Conclusions

The results indicate that, independent of reperfusion, quantified T1 is superior for detecting early ischemic changes that are not necessarily detected with T2 or apparent diffusion coefficient.
Productivity Spillovers from FDI in China: Regional Differences and Threshold Effects
Authors: Qi Jianhong , Zheng Yingmei , Laurenceson James , Li Hong
Published: July 2009

Economic theory posits numerous channels through which FDI might create positive spillovers for domestic firms. However, the results of empirical studies that have sought to document these spillovers have been mixed. One explanation for this variation is that the capacity of domestic firms to absorb spillovers might vary. In the present paper, we explore these issues in the case of China. Aside from being one of the world's leading hosts of foreign direct investment, China makes for an interesting case study because its provinces vary greatly with respect to those factors most commonly held to influence absorptive capacity, such as the initial level of technology in domestic firms. This paper begins by empirically establishing that the spillovers from foreign direct investment do indeed vary across provinces. Threshold values for various factors that influence absorptive capacity factors are then estimated and it is found that conditions in many provinces presently fall short of these values. This provides an obvious focus of attention for China's policy‐makers.
Photochemical Reactions Involved in the Phototoxicity of the Anticonvulsant and Antidepressant Drug Lamotrigine (Lamictal®)
Authors: Bilski Piotr J. , Wolak M. A. , Zhang V. , Moore D. E. , Chignell C. F.
Published: July 2009

Lamotrigine (LTG) [3,5‐diamino‐6‐(2,3‐dichlorophenyl)‐1,2,4‐triazine], an anticonvulsant and antidepressant drug Lamictal®, produces a (photo)toxic response in some patients. LTG absorbs UV light, generating singlet oxygen (1O2) with a quantum yield of 0.22 in CH2Cl2, 0.11 in MeCN and 0.01 in D2O. A small production of superoxide radical anion was also detected in acetonitrile. Thus, LTG is a moderate photosensitizer producing phototoxicity and oxidizing linoleic acid. LTG is a weak1O2quencher (kq = 3.2 × 105 m−1 s−1in MeCN), but its photodecomposition products in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) quenched1O2very efficiently. Upon intense UV irradiation from a xenon lamp, LTG was photobleached rapidly in DMSO and slowly in acetonitrile, alcohol and water. The rate increased significantly when laser pulses at 266 nm were employed. The photobleaching products generated1O2twice as strongly as LTG. Photobleaching was usually accompanied by the release of chloride anions, which increased in the presence of ascorbic acid. This suggests the formation of aryl radicalsviadechlorination, a process which may be responsible for the photoallergic response observed in some patients. Our results demonstrate that LTG is a moderate generator of1O2prone to photodechlorination, especially in a reducing environment, which can contribute to the reported phototoxicity of LTG.
Serum concentrations of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone and prevalent metabolic syndrome among adults in the United States
Authors: FORD Earl S. , ZHAO Guixiang , LI Chaoyang , PEARSON William S.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Some reports suggest that concentrations of vitamin D are inversely, whereas concentrations of parathyroid hormone (PTH) are directly, associated with prevalent metabolic syndrome. Because of lingering uncertainty about these associations, we examined the cross‐sectional associations between serum concentrations of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D3 and PTH with metabolic syndrome in a representative sample of adults in the US.

Methods:  We used data from 1705 participants in the 2005–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Vitamin D was measured by radioimmunoassay, whereas PTH was measured using an electrochemiluminescent process.

Results:  The mean concentration of vitamin D for participants with and without metabolic syndrome was 20.3 and 22.9 ng/mL, respectively (P = 0.001). The mean concentration of PTH for participants with and without metabolic syndrome was 44.5 and 41.0 pg/mL, respectively (P = 0.002). The age‐adjusted mean concentrations of vitamin D (P for linear trend <0.001) decreased linearly, whereas PTH (P for linear trend = 0.002) increased linearly, as the number of components of metabolic syndrome increased. After adjusting for age, gender, physical activity, urinary albumin creatinine ratio, and concentrations of C‐reactive protein and calcium, concentrations in the highest quintile of vitamin D [prevalence ratio (PR) = 0.59; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44–0.79], but not PTH (PR = 1.18; 95% CI 0.97–1.43), was significantly associated with prevalent metabolic syndrome.

Conclusion:  Concentrations of vitamin D, but not PTH, were significantly associated with prevalent metabolic syndrome among US adults.