bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-conducting interfaces of LaAlO3/SrTiO3 produced in sputter deposition: The role of stoichiometry
Authors: Dildar I. M. , Boltje D. B. , Hesselberth M. H. S. , Aarts J. , Xu Q. , Zandbergen H. W. , Harkema S.
Published: March 2013

We have investigated the properties of interfaces between LaAlO3 films grown on SrTiO3 substrates singly terminated by TiO2. We used RF sputtering in a high-pressure oxygen atmosphere. The films are smooth, with flat surfaces. Transmission electron microscopy shows sharp and continuous interfaces with some slight intermixing. The elemental ratio of La to Al, measured by the energy dispersive X-ray technique, is found to be 1.07. Importantly, we find these interfaces to be non-conducting, indicating that the sputtered interface is not electronically reconstructed in the way reported for films grown by pulsed laser deposition because of the different interplays among stoichiometry, mixing, and oxygen vacancies.
EMERGING FORMS OF CULTURAL CAPITAL
Authors: Prieur Annick , Savage Mike
Published: March 2013

This paper takes stock of recent research on patterns of cultural engagement in various European nations, with specific reference to British and Danish research. It argues that Bourdieu's original theorisation of cultural capital in ‘Distinction’ needs to be significantly updated to register the decline of ‘highbrow’ culture which these studies reveal. However, we argue that this shift does not entail the erosion of cultural capital itself, or the rise of the ‘cultural omnivore’, so much as the emergence of a form of ‘cosmopolitan cultural capital’. We argue that this emerging cultural capital can be associated with the partial creation of a European field and testifies to the continued stakes of cultural engagement today
SCFSlimb ubiquitin ligase suppresses condensin II–mediated nuclear reorganization by degrading Cap-H2
Authors: Buster Daniel W. , Daniel Scott G. , Nguyen Huy Q. , Windler Sarah L. , Skwarek Lara C. , Peterson Maureen , Roberts Meredith , Meserve Joy H. , Hartl Tom , Klebba Joseph E. , Bilder David , Bosco Giovanni , Rogers Gregory C.
Published: March 2013

Condensin complexes play vital roles in chromosome condensation during mitosis and meiosis. Condensin II uniquely localizes to chromatin throughout the cell cycle and, in addition to its mitotic duties, modulates chromosome organization and gene expression during interphase. Mitotic condensin activity is regulated by phosphorylation, but mechanisms that regulate condensin II during interphase are unclear. Here, we report that condensin II is inactivated when its subunit Cap-H2 is targeted for degradation by the SCFSlimb ubiquitin ligase complex and that disruption of this process dramatically changed interphase chromatin organization. Inhibition of SCFSlimb function reorganized interphase chromosomes into dense, compact domains and disrupted homologue pairing in both cultured Drosophila cells and in vivo, but these effects were rescued by condensin II inactivation. Furthermore, Cap-H2 stabilization distorted nuclear envelopes and dispersed Cid/CENP-A on interphase chromosomes. Therefore, SCFSlimb-mediated down-regulation of condensin II is required to maintain proper organization and morphology of the interphase nucleus.
CDK-dependent phosphorylation and nuclear exclusion coordinately control kinetochore assembly state
Authors: Gascoigne Karen E. , Cheeseman Iain M.
Published: March 2013

Accurate chromosome segregation requires assembly of the multiprotein kinetochore complex. Prior work has identified more than 100 different kinetochore components in human cells. However, little is known about the regulatory processes that specify their assembly upon mitotic entry and disassembly at mitotic exit. In this paper, we used a live-cell imaging–based assay to quantify kinetochore disassembly kinetics and systematically analyze the role of potential regulatory mechanisms in controlling kinetochore assembly state. We find that kinetochore assembly and disassembly was driven primarily by mitotic phosphorylation downstream of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK). In addition, we demonstrate that nuclear exclusion of the Ndc80 complex helped restrict kinetochore formation to mitosis. Combining constitutive CDK-dependent phosphorylation of CENP-T and forced nuclear localization of the Ndc80 complex partially prevented kinetochore disassembly at mitotic exit and led to chromosome segregation defects in subsequent divisions. In total, we find that the coordinated temporal regulation of outer kinetochore assembly is essential for accurate cell division.
Specific Notch receptor–ligand interactions control human TCR-αβ/γδ development by inducing differential Notch signal strength
Authors: Van de Walle Inge , Waegemans Els , De Medts Jelle , De Smet Greet , De Smedt Magda , Snauwaert Sylvia , Vandekerckhove Bart , Kerre Tessa , Leclercq Georges , Plum Jean , Gridley Thomas , Wang Tao , Koch Ute , Radtke Freddy , Taghon Tom
Published: March 2013

In humans, high Notch activation promotes γδ T cell development, whereas lower levels promote αβ-lineage differentiation. How these different Notch signals are generated has remained unclear. We show that differential Notch receptor–ligand interactions mediate this process. Whereas Delta-like 4 supports both TCR-αβ and -γδ development, Jagged1 induces mainly αβ-lineage differentiation. In contrast, Jagged2-mediated Notch activation primarily results in γδ T cell development and represses αβ-lineage differentiation by inhibiting TCR-β formation. Consistently, TCR-αβ T cell development is rescued through transduction of a TCR-β transgene. Jagged2 induces the strongest Notch signal through interactions with both Notch1 and Notch3, whereas Delta-like 4 primarily binds Notch1. In agreement, Notch3 is a stronger Notch activator and only supports γδ T cell development, whereas Notch1 is a weaker activator supporting both TCR-αβ and -γδ development. Fetal thymus organ cultures in JAG2-deficient thymic lobes or with Notch3-blocking antibodies confirm the importance of Jagged2/Notch3 signaling in human TCR-γδ differentiation. Our findings reveal that differential Notch receptor–ligand interactions mediate human TCR-αβ and -γδ T cell differentiation and provide a mechanistic insight into the high Notch dependency of human γδ T cell development.
Engineering HIV envelope protein to activate germline B cell receptors of broadly neutralizing anti-CD4 binding site antibodies
Authors: McGuire Andrew T. , Hoot Sam , Dreyer Anita M. , Lippy Adriana , Stuart Andrew , Cohen Kristen W. , Jardine Joseph , Menis Sergey , Scheid Johannes F. , West Anthony P. , Schief William R. , Stamatatos Leonidas
Published: March 2013

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) against HIV are believed to be a critical component of the protective responses elicited by an effective HIV vaccine. Neutralizing antibodies against the evolutionarily conserved CD4-binding site (CD4-BS) on the HIV envelope glycoprotein (Env) are capable of inhibiting infection of diverse HIV strains, and have been isolated from HIV-infected individuals. Despite the presence of anti–CD4-BS broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAb) epitopes on recombinant Env, Env immunization has so far failed to elicit such antibodies. Here, we show that Env immunogens fail to engage the germline-reverted forms of known bnAbs that target the CD4-BS. However, we found that the elimination of a conserved glycosylation site located in Loop D and two glycosylation sites located in variable region 5 of Env allows Env-binding to, and activation of, B cells expressing the germline-reverted BCRs of two potent broadly neutralizing antibodies, VRC01 and NIH45-46. Our results offer a possible explanation as to why Env immunogens have been ineffective in stimulating the production of such bNAbs. Importantly, they provide key information as to how such immunogens can be engineered to initiate the process of antibody-affinity maturation against one of the most conserved Env regions.
Ritodrine for Intractable Uterine Pain Due to Extrapelvic Malignant Tumor Metastases
Authors: Sugiura Yasoo , Nemoto Etsuo , Kadohira Ikuko , Kaseda Shizuka
Published: March 2013

Background:

Effective pain management is an essential component of cancer treatment as approximately 75% of all cancer patients experience excruciating nociceptive pain even at maximum safe doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or opioids. We report a case where ritodrine hydrochloride effectively controlled refractory pain due to uterine metastases from thymic carcinoma.

Case presentation:

A 40-year-old woman presented at our hospital with chest discomfort, severe right femoral pain, and intermittent hypogastralgia. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography revealed a large mass in the anterior mediastinum, multiple nodules in the lungs, and multiple metastases on the uterus, lumbar vertebrae, and pelvic bones. Needle biopsies of the mediastinal and uterine cervical tumors revealed undifferentiated carcinoma of the thymus metastasizing to the uterus. Oxycodone and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs relieved the right femoral pain but not the hypogastralgia. We speculated that hypogastralgia did not result from somatalgia but from splanchnodynia. Ritodrine was administered in an effort to inhibit uterine contractions and to reduced the refractory pain and improved her quality of life.

Conclusion:

Ritodrine relieved the pain caused by uterine contraction due to metastases and enhanced the quality of life.
Different anti-aggregation and pro-degradative functions of the members of the mammalian sHSP family in neurological disorders
Authors: Carra Serena , Rusmini Paola , Crippa Valeria , Giorgetti Elisa , Boncoraglio Alessandra , Cristofani Riccardo , Naujock Maximillian , Meister Melanie , Minoia Melania , Kampinga Harm H. , Poletti Angelo
Published: March 2013

The family of the mammalian small heat-shock proteins consists of 10 members (sHSPs/HSPBs: HSPB1–HSPB10) that all share a highly conserved C-terminal alpha-crystallin domain, important for the modulation of both their structural and functional properties. HSPB proteins are biochemically classified as molecular chaperones and participate in protein quality control, preventing the aggregation of unfolded or misfolded proteins and/or assisting in their degradation. Thus, several members of the HSPB family have been suggested to be protective in a number of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular diseases that are characterized by protein misfolding. However, the pro-refolding, anti-aggregation or pro-degradative properties of the various members of the HSPB family differ largely, thereby influencing their efficacy and protective functions. Such diversity depends on several factors, including biochemical and physical properties of the unfolded/misfolded client, the expression levels and the subcellular localization of both the chaperone and the client proteins. Furthermore, although some HSPB members are inefficient at inhibiting protein aggregation, they can still exert neuroprotective effects by other, as yet unidentified, manners; e.g. by maintaining the proper cellular redox state or/and by preventing the activation of the apoptotic cascade. Here, we will focus our attention on how the differences in the activities of the HSPB proteins can influence neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders characterized by accumulation of aggregate-prone proteins. Understanding their mechanism of action may allow us to target a specific member in a specific cell type/disease for therapeutic purposes.
Peptide aptamers: tools to negatively or positively modulate HSPB1(27) function
Authors: Gibert Benjamin , Simon Stéphanie , Dimitrova Valeriya , Diaz-Latoud Chantal , Arrigo André-Patrick
Published: March 2013

Human HSP27 (HSPB1) is a molecular chaperone sensor which, through dynamic changes in its phosphorylation and oligomerization, allows cells to adapt to changes in their physiology and/or mount a protective response to injuries. In pathological conditions, the high level of HSPB1 expression can either be beneficial, such as in diseases characterized by cellular degenerations, or be malignant in cancer cells where it promotes tumourigenesis, metastasis and anti-cancer drug resistance. Structural changes allow HSPB1 to interact with specific client protein partners in order to modulate their folding/activity and/or half-life. Therefore, the search is open for therapeutic compounds aimed at either down- or upregulating HSPB1 activity. In this respect, we have previously described two peptide aptamers (PA11 and PA50) that specifically interact with HSPB1 small oligomers and decrease its anti-apoptotic and tumourigenic activities. A novel analysis of the different HSPB1-interacting aptamers that were isolated earlier revealed that one aptamer (PA23) has the intriguing ability to stimulate the protective activity of HSPB1. We show here that this aptamer abolishes the dominant negative effect induced by the R120G mutant of αB-crystallin (HSPB5) by disrupting its interaction with HSPB1. Hence, developing structure-based interfering strategies could lead to the discovery of HSPB1-based therapeutic drugs.
Self-assembly of protein aggregates in ageing disorders: the lens and cataract model
Authors: Clark John I.
Published: March 2013

Cataract, neurodegenerative disease, macular degeneration and pathologies of ageing are often characterized by the slow progressive destabilization of proteins and their self-assembly to amyloid-like fibrils and aggregates. During normal cell differentiation, protein self-assembly is well established as a dynamic mechanism for cytoskeletal organization. With the increased emphasis on ageing disorders, there is renewed interest in small-molecule regulators of protein self-assembly. Synthetic peptides, mini-chaperones, aptamers, ATP and pantethine reportedly regulate self-assembly mechanisms involving small stress proteins, represented by human αB-crystallin, and their targets. Small molecules are being considered for direct application as molecular therapeutics to protect against amyloid and protein aggregation disorders in ageing cells and tissuesin vivo. The identification of specific interactive peptide sites for effective regulation of protein self-assembly is underway using conventional and innovative technologies. The quantification of the functional interactions between small stress proteins and their targetsin vivoremains a top research priority. The quantitative parameters controlling protein–protein interactionsin vivoneed characterization to understand the fundamental biology of self-assembling systems in normal cells and disorders of ageing.
Changes in the quaternary structure and function of MjHSP16.5 attributable to deletion of the IXI motif and introduction of the substitution, R107G, in the
α
-crystallin domain
Authors: Quinlan Roy A. , Zhang Yan , Lansbury Andrew , Williamson Ian , Pohl Ehmke , Sun Fei
Published: March 2013

The archael small heat-shock protein (sHSP), MjHSP16.5, forms a 24-subunit oligomer with octahedral symmetry. Here, we demonstrate that the IXI motif present in the C-terminal domain is necessary for the oligomerization of MjHSP16.5. Removal increased the
in vitro
chaperone activity with citrate synthase as the client protein. Less predictable were the effects of the R107G substitution in MjHSP16.5 because of the differences in the oligomerization of metazoan and non-metazoan sHSPs. We present the crystal structure for MjHSP16.5 R107G and compare this with an improved (2.5 Å) crystal structure for wild-type (WT) MjHSP16.5. Although no significant structural differences were found in the crystal, using cryo-electron microscopy, we identified two 24mer species with octahedral symmetry for the WT MjHSP16.5 both at room temperature and at 60°C, all showing two major species with the same diameter of 12.4 nm. Similarly, at room temperature, there are also two kinds of 12.4 nm oligomers for R107G MjHSP16.5, but in the 60°C sample, a larger 24mer species with a diameter of 13.6 nm was observed with significant changes in the fourfold symmetry axis and dimer–dimer interface. This highly conserved arginine, therefore, contributes to the quaternary organization of non-metazoan sHSP oligomers. Potentially, the R107G substitution has functional consequences as R107G MjHSP16.5 was far superior to the WT protein in protecting β
L
-crystallin against heat-induced aggregation.
Amplitude modulation of androgen signaling by c-MYC
Authors: Ni Min , Chen Yiwen , Fei Teng , Li Dan , Lim Elgene , Liu X. Shirley , Brown Myles
Published: March 2013

Androgen-stimulated growth of the molecular apocrine breast cancer subtype is mediated by an androgen receptor (AR)-regulated transcriptional program. However, the molecular details of this AR-centered regulatory network and the roles of other transcription factors that cooperate with AR in the network remain elusive. Here we report a positive feed-forward loop that enhances breast cancer growth involving AR, AR coregulators, and downstream target genes. In the absence of an androgen signal, TCF7L2 interacts with FOXA1 at AR-binding sites and represses the basal expression of AR target genes, including MYC. Direct AR regulation of MYC cooperates with AR-mediated activation of HER2/HER3 signaling. HER2/HER3 signaling increases the transcriptional activity of MYC through phosphorylation of MAD1, leading to increased levels of MYC/MAX heterodimers. MYC in turn reinforces the transcriptional activation of androgen-responsive genes. These results reveal a novel regulatory network in molecular apocrine breast cancers regulated by androgen and AR in which MYC plays a central role as both a key target and a cooperating transcription factor to drive oncogenic growth.
A Transcriptomic Network Underlies Microstructural and Physiological Responses to Cadmium in Populus × canescens
Authors: He Jiali , Li Hong , Luo Jie , Ma Chaofeng , Li Shaojun , Qu Long , Gai Ying , Jiang Xiangning , Janz Dennis , Polle Andrea , Tyree Melvin , Luo Zhi-Bin
Published: March 2013

Bark tissue of Populus × canescens can hyperaccumulate cadmium, but microstructural, transcriptomic, and physiological response mechanisms are poorly understood. Histochemical assays, transmission electron microscopic observations, energy-dispersive x-ray microanalysis, and transcriptomic and physiological analyses have been performed to enhance our understanding of cadmium accumulation and detoxification in P. × canescens. Cadmium was allocated to the phloem of the bark, and subcellular cadmium compartmentalization occurred mainly in vacuoles of phloem cells. Transcripts involved in microstructural alteration, changes in nutrition and primary metabolism, and stimulation of stress responses showed significantly differential expression in the bark of P. × canescens exposed to cadmium. About 48% of the differentially regulated transcripts formed a coregulation network in which 43 hub genes played a central role both in cross talk among distinct biological processes and in coordinating the transcriptomic regulation in the bark of P. × canescens in response to cadmium. The cadmium transcriptome in the bark of P. × canescens was mirrored by physiological readouts. Cadmium accumulation led to decreased total nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium and increased sulfur in the bark. Cadmium inhibited photosynthesis, resulting in decreased carbohydrate levels. Cadmium induced oxidative stress and antioxidants, including free proline, soluble phenolics, ascorbate, and thiol compounds. These results suggest that orchestrated microstructural, transcriptomic, and physiological regulation may sustain cadmium hyperaccumulation in P. × canescens bark and provide new insights into engineering woody plants for phytoremediation.
Preschool children learning about the origin of food, on local farms and in the preschool garden
Authors: Kos Marjanca , Jerman Janez
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish where four‐year old children think certain basic foods come from. The authors explored how much children can learn about the origin of food through outdoor activities in the garden at preschool and on local farms.

Design/methodology/approach

An experiment was conducted with a control and an experimental group, which consisted of 32 children each. Before activities the authors used semi‐structured interviews about the source of food for both groups to explore children's prior knowledge. The experimental group practised activities at local farms and in their small vegetable garden. Then the authors repeated the semi‐structured interviews about the source of food for both groups.

Findings

Before their experience on the farms, many children had no idea where food comes from (milk 62 per cent, eggs 47 per cent, juice 78 per cent, and beans 84 per cent), while afterwards children in the experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement in their knowledge about the origin of food. Most children could tell us exactly where milk (84 per cent), eggs (84 per cent), juice (69 per cent), and beans (84 per cent) come from.

Originality/value

The paper concludes that through outdoor activities on farms and in the garden, even preschool children can learn that food comes from living beings.
Natural inhibitors of advanced glycation end‐products
Authors: Ramkissoon J.S. , Mahomoodally Fawzi M. , Ahmed Nessar , Subratty Hussein A.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on some of the reported natural advanced glycation end‐products (AGE) inhibitors providing an outline of AGE‐breakers and the potential anti‐glycation properties of some foodstuffs.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature searches were conducted to find a link between common household spices, medicinal herbs, AGE and diabetes which could lead to practical home‐based recommendations for changes in a person's diet.

Findings

Findings tend to indicate the potential of some dietary components to prevent and/or inhibit AGE formation. Thus, these dietary agents may be exploited for controlling AGE‐mediated diabetic pathological conditions and as possible natural protector of AGE formation in vivo. Consequently, the quest for new AGE inhibitors is considered of paramount importance which can be of therapeutic potential in patients with diabetes or age‐related diseases.

Practical implications

Studies on the inhibition of AGE formation have received increasing recognition from both a nutritional and medical research standpoint. Inhibition of the formation of AGE is believed to play a key role in the prevention of diabetic and cardiovascular complications. Investigation of nutritional bioactive compounds with anti‐glycation properties provides future perspectives for prevention or intervention related to AGEs complications.

Originality/value

This paper adds on to the evidence of the use of dietary agents as natural inhibitors of AGE and hence the prevention of diabetic complications and age‐related diseases.
Eating fast food slowly? Cultural usage and meaning of fast food in America and Japan
Authors: Kobayashi Futoshi
Published: March 2013

Purpose

Although several anthropologists have reported various cultural differences between East Asians and Americans regarding their usage of fast food based on their ethnographic fieldwork, a quantitative study to test the validity of such findings is necessary for advancement of this research field. The purpose of this study is to quantitatively investigate cultural differences and similarities between American and Japanese college students regarding the usage and meaning of fast food.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 130 Japanese college students (82 female and 48 male) in Miyazaki, Japan and 70 American college students (43 female and 27 male) in Maine, USA answered the survey in order to assess their conceptualization and usage of fast food.

Findings

The results indicated that: both Americans and Japanese assumed that fast food was a meal instead of a snack, Japanese and women in general were more likely to visit fast food restaurants with others instead of going alone than Americans and men in general, and Japanese were more likely to share their ordered fast food items with others and stay at fast food restaurants for a longer duration than Americans.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the limited sample size, the results of the present study might be strengthened with further investigation of different samples.

Practical implications

Like qualitative studies conducted before, the results of this quantitative study provided evidence to suggest that there are cultural differences in the meaning and usage of fast food between East Asians and Americans.

Originality/value

There were few quantitative studies on cultural differences in the meaning and usage of fast food between East Asians and Americans. The present study might be the first such study.
Comparison of some mineral contents of common Iranian food items with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) table
Authors: Ghaemmaghamia Jamal , Mahdavib Reza , Nikniazc Zeinab , Assadid Yaghub
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The importance of adequate dietary intake of essential minerals for the maintenance of optimal health and growth in humans is well recognized. Accordingly, food composition tables are used for evaluating nutrient adequacy and for nutritional policy making. As in Iran there is no up‐to‐date national food composition table, usually data of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are used. However, because of environmental and genetic differences, the applicability of this information in Iran had been questioned. Hence, the purpose of the present study is to analyze micronutrients content of different food items.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 85 samples of 17 different food items were chosen for this study. The iron, phosphorus, calcium and zinc contents of food items were measured using spectrophotometric method and the values were compared with the data of USDA food composition table.

Findings

There were differences between the micronutrient content of Iranian food items when compared with USDA values. The greatest variation was observed in the case of calcium content for which 58.82 percent of products had appreciable differences followed by iron (47.17 percent), phosphorus (47.05 percent) and zinc (35.29 percent). Given these differences, caution must be taken in using data from other countries tables especially in the case of evaluating nutrient adequacy and nutritional policy making.

Originality/value

This paper is believed to be the only one which compared some mineral content of Iranian food items with USDA food composition table as a most commonly used table in Iran.
Effect of steaming on properties of yam flour
Authors: Akinwande B.A. , Abiodun O.A. , Adeyemi I.A.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The aim of the study is to compare the effect of steaming method and time on the physico‐chemical properties of underutilized Dioscorea dumetorum with three more commonly consumed Dioscorea rotundata, Dioscorea cayenensis and Dioscorea alata.

Design/methodology/approach

Raw and pre‐gelatinized flour were produced from the yam species. Pre‐gelatinization was done by steaming diced cubes in autoclave at 68,950 Nm‐2 for 5 min and in Barlett steamer at 98±2°C for 10, 20 and 30 min. Flour samples were analyzed for amylose content, swelling index, consistency, solubility, water absorption capacity, and iodine affinity for starch.

Findings

The physico‐chemical properties of the flours were affected by both species and steaming time. Pre‐gelatinization of the tuber reduced amylose content in all the yam species, which reduced further with increase in steaming time. Except for amylose content and iodine affinity for starch, D. dumetorum compared with D. rotundata and D. cayenensis in the parameters that were measured. Samples autoclaved for 5 min had value similar to those steamed in Barlett steamer for 10 and 20 min for all the parameters that were measured, except consistency.

Practical implications

It is very important to encourage the cultivation and utilization of D. dumetorum because of the high yield and nutritional composition to enhance the nutritional and financial well‐being of the populace.

Originality/value

Pre‐gelatinization is important as pre‐treatment for yam tubers. Underutilized D. dumetorum could be useful in ingredient formulation for product development, especially as a thickening agent.
Dietary diversity scores and nutritional status of women in two seasons in rural areas of Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Nupo S.S. , Oguntona C.R.B. , Onabanjo O.O. , Fakoya E.O.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The aim of the study is to assess the dietary diversity score (DDS) and nutritional status of women in the University of Agriculture extension village in rural areas of Ogun State, Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

A representative sample of 204 women was surveyed from the rural villages in two seasons using simple random technique. A pretested interview guide was used to collect information on personal data, and socio demographic characteristics of the subjects. Information on dietary diversity was obtained using Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance Project questionnaire (FANTA). Body mass index (BMI), waist‐hip ratio (WHR) and skin fold thickness were used in classifying obesity. Information on food intake was obtained from 24‐hour dietary recall techniques. For each season, a DDS was computed and the nutritional status was assessed. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics; SPSS software package version 16.0.

Findings

The socio economic characteristic revealed that more than half (53 percent) had no formal education, 59 percent were small scale farmers. The DDS increased from 3.55±7.6 to 3.93±4.3 between the two seasons. DDS within the various food groups showed that fruit group increased from 0.48±0.20 to 0.52.±0.10, vegetable group 0.60±0.30 to 0.66±0.30, and meat group 0.48±0.20 to 0.58±0.30 while cereals/grain groups and oil/dairies group decreased from 0.42±0.30 to 0.37, 0.11±0.30 to 0.09, respectively, between the two seasons. The nutrient content of the subjects was calculated from nutrient contents of foods obtained from food composition tables and compared to dietary reference intake (DRI). The results showed that the protein, energy and fat intakes of the subjects increased significantly during the rainy season (p<0.05). Two percent of the subjects gained weight, 4 percent had weight reduction from overweight and obese category. The result of the waist‐hip ratio showed that 78 percent had normal waist‐hip ratio, 14 percent had overweight, and 7 percent were obese. The dietary diversity score of the subjects was low. There is need for nutritional education in the villages.

Originality/value

This may be the first research work to assess the dietary diversity score of rural women in Nigeria.
GC‐MS and antioxidant capacity analyses of cowpea seeds oils
Authors: Nadeem Asghar Muhammad , Akhtar Javaid , Shafiq Muhammad , Nadeem Iram , Ashfaq Muhammad , Shahid Sammia
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The cowpea plant, being affordable and protein‐rich, is considered poor man's meat. The aim of this paper is to undertake a detailed investigation regardingin vitrototal antioxidant capacity (TAC) and chemical constituents of the vegetable oils from seeds of this plant, taking its nutritional value into consideration.

Design/methodology/approach

Vegetable oils of different indigenous cowpea varieties were obtained using soxhelt extraction assembly and subjected to GC‐MS analyses and various antioxidant assays including 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulpohonic acid) (ABTS) radical cation scavenging, ferr, 2.2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging, total phenolic contents (TPC), lipid peroxidation inhibition, and iron chelation activity.

Findings

Various chemical constituents including different hydrocarbons, tocopherols, ketones, fatty esters, estragole and cedrene were identified. TPCs were found to be 5.439, 5.7279, 7.6126, 6.7573 and 10.0591 mg/L gallic acid equivalent for S.A. Dandy, Elite, White Star, CP‐386 and FBD Rawan varieties, respectively. Employing ABTS radical decoloration assay a significant linear correlation (R2=0.997, 0.996, 0.997, 0.996 and 0.997 for S.A. Dandy, Elite, White Star, CP‐386 and FBD Rawan varieties, respectively) was found between the percent inhibition of ABTS radical cation and the amount of vegetable oils. The percent inhibition of the Fe(II)‐Ferrozine complex formation was found to be 29.45, 53.76, 82.91, 86.59 and 57.87 for the same varieties, respectively.

Originality/value

GC‐MS and standardin vitroantioxidative capacity analyses data clearly demonstrated the potency of the cowpea as antioxidant and radical scavenger plant which may be used as a good source of natural antioxidants. The plant seeds may prove a better and cost‐effective substitute of expensive food items.
A novel approximation method for multivariate data partitioning
Authors: Tunga Burcu , Demiralp Metin
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The plain High Dimensional Model Representation (HDMR) method needs Dirac delta type weights to partition the given multivariate data set for modelling an interpolation problem. Dirac delta type weight imposes a different importance level to each node of this set during the partitioning procedure which directly effects the performance of HDMR. The purpose of this paper is to develop a new method by using fluctuation free integration and HDMR methods to obtain optimized weight factors needed for identifying these importance levels for the multivariate data partitioning and modelling procedure.

Design/methodology/approach

A common problem in multivariate interpolation problems where the sought function values are given at the nodes of a rectangular prismatic grid is to determine an analytical structure for the function under consideration. As the multivariance of an interpolation problem increases, incompletenesses appear in standard numerical methods and memory limitations in computer‐based applications. To overcome the multivariance problems, it is better to deal with less‐variate structures. HDMR methods which are based on divide‐and‐conquer philosophy can be used for this purpose. This corresponds to multivariate data partitioning in which at most univariate components of the Plain HDMR are taken into consideration. To obtain these components there exist a number of integrals to be evaluated and the Fluctuation Free Integration method is used to obtain the results of these integrals. This new form of HDMR integrated with Fluctuation Free Integration also allows the Dirac delta type weight usage in multivariate data partitioning to be discarded and to optimize the weight factors corresponding to the importance level of each node of the given set.

Findings

The method developed in this study is applied to the six numerical examples in which there exist different structures and very encouraging results were obtained. In addition, the new method is compared with the other methods which include Dirac delta type weight function and the obtained results are given in the numerical implementations section.

Originality/value

The authors' new method allows an optimized weight structure in modelling to be determined in the given problem, instead of imposing the use of a certain weight function such as Dirac delta type weight. This allows the HDMR philosophy to have the chance of a flexible weight utilization in multivariate data modelling problems.
On the role of enrichment and statical admissibility of recovered fields in a posteriori error estimation for enriched finite element methods
Authors: Andrés González‐Estrada Octavio , José Ródenas Juan , Pierre Alain Bordas Stéphane , Duflot Marc , Kerfriden Pierre , Giner Eugenio
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the effect of the statical admissibility of the recovered solution and the ability of the recovered solution to represent the singular solution; also the accuracy, local and global effectivity of recovery‐based error estimators for enriched finite element methods (e.g. the extended finite element method, XFEM).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors study the performance of two recovery techniques. The first is a recently developed superconvergent patch recovery procedure with equilibration and enrichment (SPR‐CX). The second is known as the extended moving least squares recovery (XMLS), which enriches the recovered solutions but does not enforce equilibrium constraints. Both are extended recovery techniques as the polynomial basis used in the recovery process is enriched with singular terms for a better description of the singular nature of the solution.

Findings

Numerical results comparing the convergence and the effectivity index of both techniques with those obtained without the enrichment enhancement clearly show the need for the use of extended recovery techniques in Zienkiewicz‐Zhu type error estimators for this class of problems. The results also reveal significant improvements in the effectivities yielded by statically admissible recovered solutions.

Originality/value

The paper shows that both extended recovery procedures and statical admissibility are key to an accurate assessment of the quality of enriched finite element approximations.
Modified spline‐based differential quadrature method applied to vibration analysis of truncated conical shells
Authors: Krowiak Artur
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present some modifications in the spline‐based differential quadrature method (DQM), in order to accelerate the convergence of the method. The improvements are explained and examined by the examples of the free vibration of conical shells. The composite laminated shell, as well as isotropic one, are taken under consideration.

Design/methodology/approach

To determine weighting coefficients for the DQM, the spline interpolation with non‐standard definitions of the end conditions is used. One of these definitions combines natural and not‐a‐knot end conditions, while the other one uses the boundary conditions for considered problem as the end conditions. The weighting coefficients can be determined by solving set of equations arising from spline interpolation.

Findings

It is shown that the proposed modifications significantly improve the convergence of the method, especially when the boundary conditions are introduced at the stage of the computation of the weighting coefficients. Unfortunately, the use of this approach is limited to some types of boundary conditions.

Originality/value

The paper describes development of the modified spline interpolation dedicated to DQM and examines the possibility of building boundary conditions into the weighting coefficients at the stage of the computation of these coefficients.
MHD natural convection flow from an isothermal horizontal circular cylinder under consideration of temperature dependent viscosity
Authors: Molla Mamun , Saha Suvash C. , Khan M.A.I.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss, with numerical simulations, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) natural convection laminar flow from an isothermal horizontal circular cylinder immersed in a fluid with viscosity proportional to a linear function of temperature.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing boundary layer equations are transformed into a non‐dimensional form and the resulting nonlinear system of partial differential equations are reduced to convenient form, which are solved numerically by two very efficient methods: implicit finite difference method together with Keller box scheme; and direct numerical scheme.

Findings

Numerical results are presented by velocity and temperature distributions of the fluid as well as heat transfer characteristics, namely the shearing stress and the local heat transfer rate in terms of the local skin‐friction coefficient and the local Nusselt number for a wide range of MHD parameter, viscosity‐variation parameter and viscous dissipation parameter.

Originality/value

MHD flow in this geometry with temperature dependent viscosity is absent in the literature. IN this paper, the results obtained from the numerical simulations have been verified by two methodologies.
A lattice‐particle approach to determine the RVE size for quasi‐brittle materials
Authors: Montero‐Chacón Francisco , Medina Fernando
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the representative volume element (RVE) size for quasi‐brittle materials using a discrete approach, namely a lattice‐particle model.

Design/methodology/approach

Different material samples are generated and subjected to study regarding its size, maximum aggregate size and boundary conditions. In order to determine the mechanical properties such as the elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio or tensile strength, several tension tests are carried out. For this purpose, a lattice‐particle approach is used to model concrete's fracturing behavior. The information provided by the previous simulations is implemented in a statistical analysis to determine the size of the RVE.

Findings

The determination of the RVE size for quasi‐brittle materials is successfully achieved by means of a lattice‐particle model. Computed results show a good agreement with other results reported in the bibliography.

Originality/value

Within a general multiscale framework, the determination of the RVE size is of great interest and some studies have been performed for random heterogeneous materials. However, these analyses are mainly continuum‐based. The estimation of the RVE size is important for correctly predicting the mechanical properties and can be used in different multiscale schemes.
Discrete element approach in brittle fracture mechanics
Authors: Danh Le Ba , Koval Georg , Chazallon Cyrille
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use the discrete element method (DEM) to model the fracture behaviour of brittle materials in 2D.

Design/methodology/approach

The material consists of a set of particles in contact with a close‐packed structure. It allows the derivation of an expression for the stress intensity factor as a function of the contact forces near the crack tip. A classical failure criterion, based on the material's toughness, is then adopted for the analysis of crack propagation, represented by the contact loss between particles.

Findings

The DEM approach is compared to two tensile cases (mode I); both presenting a monotonous convergence towards classical solutions for more precise discretization.

Originality/value

The paper proposes a DEM approach in fracture mechanics of isotropic brittle materials entirely compatible with continuous classical theory. Hence the toughness value is directly introduced as a parameter of the material without any previous calibration of the DEM.
3D harmonic model of the end region for turbogenerators
Authors: Andrzejewski Jakub , Komęza Krzysztof , Romary Raphaël
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The large size of models and long computing time prevent the creation of full‐scale, three‐dimensional models of end region of turbogenerators. Only exact three‐dimensional model can illustrate complex phenomena of end region losses. Also some methods of decreasing such losses cannot be simulated in two‐dimensional models. The purpose of this paper is to focus on a method of creating three‐dimensional models of turbogenerators' end regions for calculations of eddy current losses.

Design/methodology/approach

Time‐stepping is the most expensive part of computation. A harmonic model would be free from that disadvantage and it can provide a tool to make an accurate, fully three‐dimensional model of a steady state for different loads and provide results in a reasonable time.

Findings

The research focuses on the method of creating three‐dimensional models of turbogenerators end region for calculations of eddy current losses. By using two‐dimensional, time‐stepping models and empirical loss functions for a main flux and three‐dimensional models for eddy current losses from a perpendicular flux of an end connections, it is found that fast analysis of that complex part of a machine can be achieved.

Originality/value

The approach proposed in the paper is a universal and novel method of calculation losses of turbogenerators' end regions. Combining two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional models provides advantages of both known methods: fast computation time from simplified models and good representation of complex geometry of a machine.
The evolution of MEMS and modelling methodologies
Authors: Napieralski Andrzej , Napieralska Malgorzata , Szermer Michal , Maj Cezary
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the evolution of microsystems together with modeling methods in the space of dozen years as a result of finished research in the frame of several projects.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper several approaches are presented. First, microsystems were built in multi project wafer technology. They were demonstrators like micromotor, micromirrors or micropumps modeled using dedicated design tool. A multi purpose chip was also designed using HDL description and FEM simulations. The next project concerned chemical sensors, where specialized models were developed and implemented in VHDL‐AMS in order to perform multidomain behavioral simulations. Dedicated tools were also developed for medical applications.

Findings

The evolution of MEMS technology is strictly connected with simulation and modeling methods. The success and short time to market need fast and accurate simulation methods. This paper shows that the approach depends on application. Moreover, it is connected with the access to the technology.

Originality/value

This paper presents a brief overview on projects performed in DMCS‐TUL department. It shows the evolution of modeling methods and technology used in developing and fabrication of microsystems for various applications.
Cogging torque characteristics of magnetic‐geared motor
Authors: Niguchi Noboru , Hirata Katsuhiro
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a magnetic‐geared motor with permanent magnets only on the high‐speed rotor as a solution to the problems of magnetic gears. Magnetic gears have some advantages such as no mechanical loss and maintenance‐free operation that are not observed in conventional mechanical gears. Furthermore, they have inherent overload protection. A novel structure which the magnetic gear is integrated with the brushless motor (magnetic‐geared motor) was proposed by Atallah et al. This magnetic‐geared motor is based on the magnetic gear which consists of a high‐ and low‐speed rotor, and a stator. Although this magnetic‐geared motor has a high‐torque density, problems with manufacturing and cost exist because multi‐pole permanent magnets are mounted on the high‐speed rotor and stator.

Design/methodology/approach

A magnetic‐geared motor with permanent magnets only on the high‐speed rotor was proposed and its operational principle was described. The cogging torque characteristics were mathematically formulated and the authors ascertained that the cogging torque contains components of multiples of 60th order. In order to verify the order of the cogging torque, the 3‐D finite element method analysis was conducted and measurements on a prototype were carried out.

Findings

The 60th component and its multiples were observed in the computed and measured cogging torque waveform. However, the cogging torque characteristics, especially the order of the cogging torque on the low‐speed rotor, have not been clarified.

Originality/value

In the near future, cogging torque reduction methods will be proposed, and verified by conducting 3‐D FEM analyses and carrying out measurements on a prototype. Furthermore, the torque characteristics when an electrical current is applied to the coils and the eddy‐current loss characteristics will be verified.