bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of overall quality of life in preterminal cancer patients
Authors: Beijer Sandra , Kempen Gertrudis I.J.M. , Pijls‐Johannesma Madelon C.G. , de Graeff Alexander , Dagnelie Pieter C.
Published: April 2008

Recently, a few studies reported that fatigue was a predominant contributor to patient‐perceived overall QoL in patients with different types of cancer in a relatively early stage of disease. In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether fatigue is also a major contributor to overall QoL in preterminal cancer patients. Ninety‐eight preterminal cancer patients, mainly lung (44%) and gastrointestinal cancer (25%), with an estimated life expectancy of 1–6 months were included. QoL domains as well as overall QoL were measured using the EORTC QLQ‐C30 questionnaire. Data were analysed by Pearson's correlations and multivariate modelling. Fatigue showed the strongest correlation with overall QoL (r = −0.63, p < 0.001), followed in decreasing order by role functioning (r = 0.53), physical functioning (r = 0.47), social functioning (r = 0.44), nausea (r = −0.37), cognitive functioning (r = 0.33), appetite loss (r = −0.31), dyspnea (r = −0.26) and emotional functioning (r = 0.24). Multivariate analysis confirmed that the fatigue scale paid by far the highest individual contribution to overall QoL (standardized regression coefficient (SRC): −0.41, p = 0.002), followed by social functioning (SRC: 0.18, p = 0.05). None of the other domains or symptom scales contributed independently to overall QoL. Our results clearly demonstrate that, in preterminal cancer patients, fatigue is a major contributor of overall QoL, corroborating reports in cancer patients in earlier disease stages. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐stage model for robust real‐time face tracking
Authors: Do Jun‐Hyeong , Bien Zeungnam
Published: April 2008

We propose a novel face tracking framework, the three‐stage model, for robust face tracking against interruptions from face‐like blobs. For robust face tracking in real‐time, we considered two critical factors in the construction of the proposed model. One factor is the exclusion of background information in the initialization of the target model, the extraction of the target candidate region, and the updating of the target model. The other factor is the robust estimation of face movement under various environmental conditions. The proposed three‐stage model consists of a preattentive stage, an assignment stage, and a postattentive stage with a prerecognition phase. The model is constructed by means of effective integration of optimum cues that are selected in consideration of the trade‐off between true positives and false positives of face classification based on a context‐dependant type of categorization. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed tracking method improves the performance of the real‐time face tracking process in terms of success rates and with robustness against interruptions from face‐like blobs. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 17, 321–327, 2007
Association between X‐linked lissencephaly with ambiguous genitalia syndrome and lenticulostriate vasculopathy in neonate
Authors: Jagła Mateusz , Kruczek Piotr , Kwinta Przemko
Published: April 2008

X‐linked lissencephaly with ambiguous genitalia syndrome (XLAG) (OMIM #3000215) is a rare, severe malformation of the brain cortex with abnormal neuronal migration caused by mutations of the ARX gene. All the reported patients with lissencephaly are males who presented with a posterior‐to‐anterior gradient, moderately increased thickness of the brain cortex, agenesis of corpus callosum, micropenis, and cryptorchidism. We describe the neurosonographic findings associated with the XLAG syndrome. To our knowledge, the association between XLAG and lenticulostriate vasculopathy has not been reported before. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008
The Universal Postal Union's strategy for fighting “snail mail” fraud may be the key to making e‐commerce safer
Authors: Vial Virginie
Published: April 2008

Open networks, high‐tech or low‐tech, are by their nature vulnerable to fraudulent use, and e‐commerce platforms are increasingly targets of illegal activity. An international security initiative to reduce drug trafficking through the mails has devised strategies that could also be useful for protecting companies and consumers from online fraud. The author examines the characteristics of networks that make them vulnerable to abuse, and examines the Universal Postal Union's security scheme for working with national postal services to develop a comprehensive database of illegal transactions and upgrade screening processes for detecting them. Finally the author proposes a general framework of action for private companies. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conducting business in the UAE: A brief for international managers
Authors: Akoum Ibrahim F.
Published: April 2008

The United Arab Emirates is a rising business star that has swiftly emerged as a key business and political player in the region. The continuing influx of international business giants epitomizes the country's resounding success in nurturing its reputation as a centre of business opportunity. Success and growth, however, has had concomitant adverse effects. Thus, the flip side of the booming economy has been disconcerting demographic imbalances and inflationary pressures, raising the cost of doing business and eroding the competitiveness of the fledgling economy. Overall, the UAE offers an enticing business environment with a liberal lifestyle and ample business opportunities apart from the hydrocarbon sector. Foreign businesses have opportunities in various sectors including financial and trade services, tourism, entertainment, construction, manufacturing, education, and health services. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accidental Nd:YAG laser‐induced choroidal neovascularization
Authors: Ying Howard S. , Symons Robert C.A. , Lin Kristie L. , Solomon Sharon D. , Gehlbach Peter L.
Published: April 2008

Background

There are few reports in the literature to describe the natural history of an occupational Nd:YAG laser‐induced retinal injury.

Methods

The chronological response to a Nd:YAG laser‐induced injury was studied in a 48‐year‐old male using the techniques of color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography. When he developed choroidal neovascularization his response to photodynamic therapy with verteporfin was recorded.

Results

The patient initially developed a macular hole, which spontaneously closed. Three months after the injury a choroidal neovascular membrane developed. This stabilized after the use of photodynamic therapy.

Conclusions

Surgical closure of Nd:YAG induced macular holes should be delayed to allow spontaneous closure. Photodynamic therapy was successful in treating choroidal neovascularization in this case. Lesers Surg. Med. 40:240–242, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Macromol. Chem. Phys. 8/2008
Authors: Serghei Anatoli , Kremer Friedrich
Published: April 2008

Cover: The schematic representation on the cover shows the behavior of the dielectric loss and dynamic glass transition of ultra‐thin polymer films during annealing above the glass transition temperature. In the early stages of annealing metastable states of the glassy dynamics are detected, which ‐ similarly to confinement effects ‐ exhibit pronounced deviations from the bulk glass transition. Further details can be found in the article by A. Serghei* and F. Kremer on page 810.
Psychogenic propriospinal myoclonus
Authors: Williams David R. , Cowey Max , Tuck Kate , Day Bruce
Published: April 2008

We report a case of probable psychogenic propriospinal myoclonus (PSM) in a patient who developed a sudden onset of disabling axial flexor myoclonus following a cosmetic surgical procedure. The electrophysiological findings were consistent with previous reports of PSM. Spontaneous remissions and disappearance of the jerks, sustained for 2 years, following removal of superficial surgical screws support the diagnosis of a psychogenic movement disorder. © 2008 Movement Disorder Society
The stationary three‐dimensional Navier–Stokes equations with a non‐zero constant velocity at infinity
Authors: Amrouche Chérif , Nguyen Huy Hoang
Published: April 2008

This paper is devoted to some mathematical questions related to the three‐dimensional stationary Navier–Stokes equations. Our approach is based on a combination of properties of Oseen problems in ℝ3. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved four‐node Hellinger–Reissner elements based on skew coordinates
Authors: Wisniewski K. , Turska E.
Published: April 2008

Mixed four‐node elements based on the Hellinger–Reissner (HR) functional are developed for stress representations in various coordinates, including the skew, natural and Cartesian ones. The two‐field HR functional is used in the classical form and in the incremental form suitable for non‐linear materials.

We argue that the skew coordinates, not the natural ones, should be associated with the natural basis at the element's center. If 5‐ and 7‐parameter stress representations are assumed in these coordinates, then, for a linear elastic case, the homogenous equilibrium equations and the stress form of compatibility equation are satisfied point‐wise.

Two mixed four‐node elements are developed and tested:

An assumed stress element (HR5‐S) is developed from the non‐enhanced HR functional, for a 5‐parameter representation of stresses, formally identical as the one used, for example, in Pian and Sumihara [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 1984; 20:1685–1695], but in terms of skew coordinates. This element is very simple and uses a smaller number of parameters, but is equally accurate as the elements by Yuan et al. [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 1993; 36:1747–1763] and by Piltner and Taylor [Int. J. Numer. Meth. Engng 1995; 38:1783–1808].

An assumed stress/enhanced strain element (HR9) is developed from the enhanced HR functional, for a 7‐parameter representation of stress and a 2‐parameter enhanced assumed displacement gradient or enhanced assumed strain enhancement. Various forms of 7‐parameter representations appearing in the literature are reviewed, and we prove that they are linked by a linear onto transformation. The choice of coordinates for the stress and the enhancement turns out to be the crucial factor, and four combinations of coordinates for which the element performs the best are identified.

Both elements are based on the Green strain, and several numerical tests show their good accuracy, in particular, their robustness to shape distortions for coarse meshes. Two update schemes for the multipliers of modes and the incremental constitutive procedure accounting for the plane stress condition for non‐linear materials are tested for large deformation problems. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Bayesian inference approach to the ill‐posed Cauchy problem of steady‐state heat conduction
Authors: Jin Bangti , Zou Jun
Published: April 2008

This paper studies a Bayesian inference approach to the Cauchy problem in steady‐state heat conduction of probabilistically calibrating the boundary temperature. The prior modeling is achieved via the Markov random field, and its regularizing property is investigated. A hierarchical Bayesian model is adopted for selecting the regularization parameter and detecting the noise level automatically. The posterior state space is explored using the Markov chain Monte Carlo for obtaining relevant statistics. Two augmented Tikhonov regularization methods that could determine the regularization parameter and the noise level are proposed and analyzed. Numerical results indicate that the Bayesian inference approach could yield an accurate estimate of the solution with its uncertainties quantified, and the augmented Tikhonov regularization methods are accurate and flexible. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Locking‐free continuum displacement finite elements with nodal integration
Authors: Krysl P. , Zhu B.
Published: April 2008

An assumed‐strain finite element technique is presented for linear, elastic small‐deformation models. Weighted residual method (reminiscent of the strain–displacement functional) is used to weakly enforce the balance equation with the natural boundary condition and the kinematic equation (the strain–displacement relationship). A priori satisfaction of the kinematic weighted residual serves as a condition from which strain–displacement operators are derived via nodal integration. A variety of element shapes is treated: linear triangles, quadrilaterals, tetrahedra, hexahedra, and quadratic (six‐node) triangles and (27‐node) hexahedra. The degrees of freedom are only the primitive variables (displacements at the nodes). The formulation allows for general anisotropic materials. A straightforward constraint count can partially explain the insensitivity of the resulting finite element models to locking in the incompressible limit. Furthermore, the numerical inf–sup test is applied in select problems and several variants of the proposed formulations (linear triangles, quadrilaterals, tetrahedra, hexahedra, and 27‐node hexahedra) pass the test. Examples are used to illustrate the performance with respect to sensitivity to shape distortion and the ability to resist volumetric locking. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new insight on the quantum quantitative structure‐properties relationships
Authors: Carbó‐Dorca Ramon , Van Damme Sofie
Published: April 2008

The theoretical basis of quantum Quantitative Structure‐Properties Relationship (QSPR) is analyzed. After setting up a QQSPR operator structure, the first order fundamental QQSPR equation, which turns to be a linear system, is deduced. Some QQSPR algorithms are described afterwards: they are based on the approximate resolution fundamental QQSPR equation. To show the practical computational use of the theory, the definition of a simple QQSPR predictive model is also developed. Finally an application example is given, based on the Cramer steroid set. The new procedures can be easily extended to classical QSPR problems. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Reactivation of partially poisoned nickel catalyst by bleaching earth
Authors: Drozdowski B. , Goraj‐Moszora I.
Published: April 2008

The effect of activated bleaching earth on the hydrogenation kinetics of fats has been studied in a model system containing sodium soaps, phospholipids and allyl isothiocyanate. Both unsupported and supported catalysts were inactivated by these inhibitors. The optimal quantity of adsorbent, when added to the reaction system, caused a maximal increase of hydrogenation rate in the presence of these inhibitors. In the case of partial inactivation of a catalyst with these inhibitors, the addition of bleaching earth resulted in a regeneration of the catalyst’s active surface and an immediate increase in the hydrogenation rate. The effectiveness of this interaction depended upon the inhibitor type, catalyst type and time of contact with catalyst inactivators. The results suggest the positive effect of activated bleaching earth during hydrogenation results from the sorption processes, inhibitor transformations on the adsorbent and direct interaction with the nickel catalyst.
Extraction of tallow from meat meals: I. Assays in bench scale
Authors: Alvarez G. P. I. , Massaldi H. A. , Maymó J. A.
Published: April 2008

A laboratory study on solvent extraction of tallow from meat meals is described for both a stirred batch system and a flooded percolation system. The stirred batch system data, interpreted by standard diffusion concepts, show that the extraction process proceeds through a somewhat complex mechanism, which involves at least two types of extractable fat. The results for the percolation system, which show the effect of different operating variables, indicate good yields are possible with a substantially low solvent requirement.
Cocoa butter‐like fats from fractionated cottonseed oil: II. Properties
Authors: Lovegren N. V. , Gajee B. B. , Gray M. S. , Feuge R. O.
Published: April 2008

Previously it was reported that the stearine obtained as a byproduct in the solvent winterization of cottonseed oil is a good starting material for the preparation of cocoa butter‐like fats by way of hydrogenation and fractionation. The composition, physical properties, and compatability with cocoa butter have been determined for some of these fats. While the products contained triglyceride species other than those in cocoa butter, the major components were similar in that they were 2‐oleodisaturated glycerides. The cocoa butter‐like fats underwent slow polymorphic transformations, but made confectionery coatings remarkably resistant to bloom. Cooling curves resembled those of cocoa butter. Hardness was related to melting point; those fats melting below 35 C were softer than cocoa butter at room temperature, but fats melting above 35 C could be made to resemble cocoa butter in hardness. Adding cocoa butter to the cocoa butter‐like fats had little effect on the softening point. X‐Ray diffraction studies of 1:1 mixtures gave no evidence of mixed crystal formation; the long spacings resembled those of mechanical mixtures. In some other mixtures, certain short spacings became more pronounced.
IDENTIFYING SEED UPTAKE PATHWAYS: THE SPREAD OFAGYA AMOAHRICE CULTIVAR IN SOUTHWESTERN GHANA
Authors: MARFO K. A. , DORWARD P. T. , CRAUFURD P. Q. , ANSERE-BIOH F. , HALEEGOAH J. , BAM R.
Published: April 2008

A study was carried out to identify the factors that contributed to the natural spread and uptake of a rainfed rice variety namedAgya Amoahin the Western Region of Ghana after introduction of a small amount (0.5 kg) of seed in 1987 by a small-scale farmer. Fifteen years after its introduction over 73% of rice farmers had grown the variety in the Western Region. Initial awareness of the variety was created by information provided mainly by friends, seeing the variety grown in fields and from relatives. Seed for initial planting of the variety was purchased from other farmers by 67% of farmers, but in the most recent season 77% of farmers used their own saved seed. Annual incremental income per household from the replacement of the previously most widely grown variety withAgya Amoahwas estimated to be US $282. The results show that informal systems can result in relatively fast spread and extensive uptake. Local seed systems need to be understood to design appropriate activities that are likely to lead to rapid spread and equitable distribution of introduced varieties, irrespective of characteristics such as wealth and kin.
Endoscopic modified Lothrop procedure for repair of lateral frontal sinus cerebrospinal fluid leak
Authors: Anverali J K , Hassaan A A , Saleh H A
Published: April 2008

Objective:

To describe a previously unreported case of repair of a lateral frontal sinus cerebrospinal fluid leak, using the endoscopic modified Lothrop procedure.

Method:

Case report of new technique, with reference to the world literature.

Results:

An effective endoscopic, transnasal repair of a lateral frontal sinus cerebrospinal fluid leak was achieved in a 60-year-old man. The defect was closed with fat, fascia lata and free mucosal grafts. The left nasal cavity was packed and a lumbar drain left in situ post-operatively. The drain and packs were removed one week later and the patient discharged with no complications, and no recurrence at 12 months' follow up.

Conclusion:

Such cerebrospinal fluid leaks have traditionally been repaired using an external approach with osteoplastic flaps and obliteration of the sinus. We highlight the endoscopic modified Lothrop technique as an effective alternative approach to repair of cerebrospinal fluid leaks in poorly accessible areas of the frontal sinus.
The vitamin D receptor in cancer
Authors: Thorne James , Campbell Moray J.
Published: April 2008

Over the last 25 years roles have been established for vitamin D receptor (VDR) in influencing cell proliferation and differentiation. For example, murine knock-out approaches have revealed a role for the VDR in controlling mammary gland growth and function. These actions appear widespread, as the enzymes responsible for 1α,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol generation and degradation, and the VDR itself, are all functionally present in a wide range of epithelial and haematopoietic cell types. These findings, combined with epidemiological and functional data, support the concept that local, autocrine and paracrine VDR signalling exerts control over cell-fate decisions in multiple cell types. Furthermore, the recent identification of bile acid lithocholic acid as a VDR ligand underscores the environmental sensing role for the VDR.In vitroandin vivodissection of VDR signalling in cancers (e.g. breast, prostate and colon) supports a role for targeting the VDR in either chemoprevention or chemotherapy settings. As with other potential therapeutics, it has become clear that cancer cells displayde novoand acquired genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of resistance to these actions. Consequently, a range of experimental and clinical options are being developed to bring about more targeted actions, overcome resistance and enhance the efficacy of VDR-centred therapeutics.
Importance of calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K for osteoporosis prevention and treatment
Authors: Lanham-New Susan A.
Published: April 2008

Throughout the life cycle the skeleton requires optimum development and maintenance of its integrity to prevent fracture. Bones break because the loads placed on them exceed the ability of the bone to absorb the energy involved. It is now estimated that one in three women and one in twelve men aged >55 years will suffer from osteoporosis in their lifetime and at a cost in the UK of >£1·7×109 per year. The pathogenesis of osteoporosis is multifactorial. Both the development of peak bone mass and the rate of bone loss are determined by key endogenous and exogenous factors. Ca supplements appear to be effective in reducing bone loss in women late post menopause (>5 years post menopause), particularly in those with low habitual Ca intake (<400 mg/d). In women early post menopause (<5 years post menopause) who are not vitamin D deficient, Ca supplementation has little effect on bone mineral density. However, supplementation with vitamin D and Ca has been shown to reduce fracture rates in the institutionalised elderly, but there remains controversy as to whether supplementation is effective in reducing fracture in free-living populations. Re-defining vitamin D requirements in the UK is needed since there is evidence of extensive hypovitaminosis D in the UK. Low vitamin D status is associated with an increased risk of falling and a variety of other health outcomes and is an area that requires urgent attention. The role of other micronutrients on bone remains to be fully defined, although there are promising data in the literature for a clear link between vitamin K nutrition and skeletal integrity, including fracture reduction.
Wrench capabilities of planar parallel manipulators. Part II: Redundancy and wrench workspace analysis
Authors: Firmani Flavio , Zibil Alp , Nokleby Scott B. , Podhorodeski Ron P.
Published: April 2008

This part of the paper investigates the wrench capabilities of redundantly actuated planar parallel manipulators (PPMs). The wrench capabilities of PPMs are determined by mapping a hypercube from the torque space into a polytope in the wrench space. For redundant PPMs, one actuator output capability constrains the wrench space with a smaller polytope that is contained inside the overall polytope. Performance indices are derived from six study cases. These indices are employed to analyze the wrench workspace for constant orientation of the mobile platform of the non-redundant 3-RRR PPM, and actuation redundant 4-RRR and 3-RRR PPMs, where the underline indicates the actuated joints. A comparison of the results shows that both of the redundantly-actuated PPMs give better wrench capabilities than the non-redundant PPM. However, it is shown that scaled for the operational cost (wrench capabilities divided by total actuation output) the non-redundant 3-RRR PPM provides the highest maximum reachable force, the 3-RRR PPM produces the highest isotropic force, and the 4-RRR yields the highest reachable moment.
Error analysis and optimal design of a class of translational parallel kinematic machine using particle swarm optimization
Authors: Xu Qingsong , Li Yangmin
Published: April 2008

In this paper, the optimization of architectural parameters for a class of translational parallel kinematic machine (PKM) is performed with the particle swarm optimization (PSO) to achieve the best accuracy characteristics. The conventional error transformation matrix (ETM) is derived based on the differentiation of kinematic equations, and a new error amplification index (EAI) over a usable workspace is proposed as an error performance index for the optimization. To validate the efficiency of the PSO method, both the traditional direct search method and the genetic algorithm (GA) are implemented as well. The simulation results not only show the advantages of PSO method for the architectural optimization, but also reveal the necessity to introduce the EAI for the optimal design. And the results are valuable for architectural design of the PKM for machine tool applications.
Re-imagining Bishopsgate goodsyard
Authors: Davis Juliet
Published: April 2008

This paper explores the contribution made to debates over the redevelopment of the nineteenth-century Bishopsgate goodsyard site in Spitalfields, London, by an experimental architectural artwork entitled Intact by Office for Subversive Architecture. Readings of the urban character of Spitalfields are reviewed, as imagined and captured in film and in literary narrative. Applying in this way an approach related to what Luckhurst terms ‘the spectral turn’ in urban historiography, I use these readings as a background for examining the site's recent development. Over the last twenty years, it has been subject to a variety of urban proposals. While some have pressed for virtually complete demolition of existing structures, others have focused on aspects of urban character and possibilities for intensifying use through intervention. The Intact project involves a reinterpretation of a small fragment of railway architecture. I argue that it suggests, playfully, the potential for re-imagining the site that interacts nonetheless with readings of the past.
Conversation with Chen Kuan Lee about roof profiles (1947)
Authors: Häring Hugo
Published: April 2008

We spoke about the usability and further development of the Chinese roof profile in Chinese buildings today. How did this roof, this remarkable Chinese roof, which gives Chinese architecture a special signature against which other features pale into insignificance, come about? It is a saddle roof with an exaggerated rounding of the ridge and wide out-swinging eaves, and the surface is raised to the highest shine through the intensity of gleaming glazed tiles which display all the colours of nature: light and dark red, lemon yellow and golden yellow, sky blue and peacock blue, rare green and brown glazes of every kind. Through the wave profile of the over- and under-lapping tiles – which all adds to the formal effect – it survives every kind of weather.
Intakes of fruits, vegetables and carbohydrate and the risk of CVD
Authors: Joshipura Kaumudi J , Hung Hsin-Chia , Li Tricia Y , Hu Frank B , Rimm Eric B , Stampfer Meir J , Colditz Graham , Willett Walter C
Published: April 2008

Background

Low-carbohydrate diets could lead to reduced fruit and vegetable intake, which may be protective against CVD. The role of carbohydrate intake in modifying the association between fruits and vegetables and CVD has not been evaluated.

Objective

To evaluate whether carbohydrate intake affects the association between fruits and vegetables and CVD.

Design

We included participants from two large prospective studies, the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and the Health Professionals’ Follow-Up Study (HPFS). We followed 70 870 eligible NHS females for 16 years and 38 918 eligible HPFS males for 14 years. Diet was assessed from an FFQ updated every 4 years. Our primary outcome was ischaemic CVD (fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke). We used Cox proportional hazards models to evaluate the relationship between fruits and vegetables and ischaemic CVD within groups with low, moderate or high carbohydrate intake.

Results

Fruit intake was strongly related with carbohydrate intake, but vegetables showed a very small correlation. Vegetable intake showed stronger associations with ischaemic CVD among the low carbohydrate group (multivariate risk ratio (RR) = 0·82 for an increment of 3 servings/d; 95 % CI 0·68, 0·99); green leafy vegetables and carotene-rich fruits and vegetables followed a similar pattern. Total fruit intake was associated with a lower risk of ischaemic CVD only among participants with moderate carbohydrate intake (RR = 0·81 comparing extreme quintiles; 95 % CI 0·70, 0·94).

Conclusions

Total vegetables, green leafy vegetables and carotene-rich fruits and vegetables showed stronger associations with ischaemic CVD among the low carbohydrate group. No consistent trends were observed for fruit intake.
Prevalence of obesity and overweight among urban adults in Bulgaria
Authors: Ivanova Lumdila , Dimitrov Plamen , Dellava Jocilyn , Hoffman Daniel
Published: April 2008

Objective

The prevalence of obesity is increasing in transitional countries, but extensive data on some countries, such as Bulgaria, are still lacking. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of overweight and obesity, relative to gender and income, among adults in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Design

Cross-sectional survey to collect data on diet, health, BMI and income using a brief questionnaire on diet and income. Data were analysed using analysis of covariance to determine differences within and between income and gender groups.

Setting

Sofia, Bulgaria.

Subjects

Adults living in the city of Sofia, Bulgaria.

Results

For adults 30–60 years of age, 35·1 % were overweight and 6·2 % were obese. The proportion of overweight and obesity was higher among men than women (44·8 % v. 32·4 % and 6·0 % v. 4·7 %, respectively). With respect to income, BMI decreased as income increased. For men, BMI was highest for the lowest and highest income groups, whereas for women lower income was associated with a higher BMI.

Conclusion

The prevalence of overweight and obesity appears to be an emerging problem in some sectors of Bulgarian society, based on our data from the largest urban area of the country. These data provide new information on the divergence in health and disease risk in a country that is still economically challenged and may be facing the nutrition transition.
Advances in Primary Recovery: Centrifugation and Membrane Technology
Authors: Roush David J. , Lu Yuefeng
Published: April 2008

Significant and continual improvements in upstream processing for biologics have resulted in challenges for downstream processing, both primary recovery and purification (1). Given the high cell densities achievable in both microbial and mammalian cell culture processes, primary recovery can be a significant bottleneck in both clinical and commercial manufacturing. The combination of increased product titer and low viability leads to significant relative increases in the levels of process impurities such as lipids, intracellular proteins and nucleic acid versus the product. In addition, cell culture media components such as soy and yeast hydrolysates have been widely applied to achieve the cell culture densities needed for higher titers (2,3). Many of the process impurities can be negatively charged at harvest pH and can form colloids during the cell culture and harvest processes. The wide size distribution of these particles and the potential for additional particles to be generated by shear forces within a centrifuge may result in insufficient clarification to prevent fouling of subsequent filters. The other residual process impurities can lead to precipitation and increased turbidity during processing and even interference with the performance of the capturing chromatographic step. Primary recovery also poses significant challenges owing to the necessity to execute in an expedient manner to minimize both product degradation and bioburden concerns. Both microfiltration and centrifugation coupled with depth filtration have been employed successfully as primary recovery processing steps. Advances in the design and application of membrane technology for microfiltration and dead‐end filtration have contributed to significant improvements in process performance and integration, in some cases allowing for a combination of multiple unit operations in a given step. Although these advances have increased productivity and reliability, the net result is that optimization of primary recovery processes has become substantially more complicated. Ironically, the application of classical chemical engineering approaches to overcome issues in primary recovery and purification (e.g., turbidity and trace impurity removal) are just recently gaining attention (4). Some of these techniques (e.g., membrane cascades, pretreatment, precipitation, and the use of affinity tags) are now seen almost as disruptive technologies (5). This paper will review the current and potential future state of research on primary recovery, including relevant papers presented at the 234th American Chemical Society (ACS) National Meeting in Boston.
Aktuelle Aspekte zur Diagnostik des Nierenzellkarzinoms
Authors: Heynemann H.
Published: April 2008

Die Sonographie nimmt bei der Diagnostik raumfordernder Prozesse der Niere, speziell des Nierenzellkarzinoms eine zentrale Stellung ein und ist gleichsam auch das am häufigsten eingesetzte Verfahren aller bildgebenden Systeme zur Früherkennung dieses Tumors. Die in den letzten Jahren zunehmende Inzidenz des Nierenzellkarzinoms, vor allem in den europäischen Industrieregionen erfordert eine praktisch rasch umsetzbare Diagnostik, die durch die Sonographie eingeleitet wird. Die frühzeitige sonographische Diagnostik des Nierenzellkarzinoms ermöglicht unter kurativer Zielsetzung eine organerhaltende Operation mit guter Prognose.
Kakao
Authors: Flammer A.J. , Sudano I. , Noll G. , Corti R.
Published: April 2008

Schokolade hat sowohl in der Zahnheilkunde als auch in der Humanmedizin nach wie vor einen schlechten Ruf und wurde für Karies, Übergewicht und dessen Folgen – Bluthochdruck und Diabetes – verantwortlich gemacht. Aktuell scheint die süsse Sünde wieder auf dem Weg zu ihrer Rehabilitierung zu sein. Kürzlich konnte gezeigt werden, dass dunkle Schokolade unter gewissen Umständen zu einer Verbesserung wichtiger Surrogatmarker der Atherosklerose wie der Endothel- und Plättchenfunktion führen kann. Zusätzlich zeichnet sich ab, dass sich Schokolade auch positiv auf den Blutdruck, die Plasmalipide und sogar auf die Insulinresistenz auswirkt. Diese günstigen Effekte sind vermutlich am ehesten durch antioxidative und NO-abhängige Mechanismen zu erklären.
Vater-Erleben, Kohärenzgefühl und subjektives väterliches Wohlbefinden
Authors: Eickhorst Andreas
Published: April 2008

Zusammenfassung. Diese Studie untersucht an einer Gruppe von 40 deutschen Vätern erstgeborener Kinder im Alter von etwa 20 Monaten Einflüsse auf das subjektive Wohlbefinden der Väter. Es handelt sich dabei um per Fragebogen erhobene Daten des subjektiven Erlebens der Väter. Es werden positive Zusammenhänge des salutogenetischen Konstruktes Kohärenzgefühl sowie einer Vateridentität während der Schwangerschaft mit dem Wohlbefinden festgestellt. Hingegen gibt es einen negativen Zusammenhang zwischen Wohlbefinden und der Anzahl weiterer Rollen neben der Vaterrolle. Die gefundenen Ergebnisse werden im Kontext der Vater- und Wohlbefindensforschung diskutiert. Die Arbeit wird als ein explorativer Beitrag zu dem noch neuen und zukunftsträchtigen Forschungsfeld des Vater-Erlebens verstanden.
A composite isotopic thermometer for snow
Authors: Holdsworth Gerald
Published: April 2008

The isotopic δ thermometer for snow is an equation that relates the isotopic δ value (derived from 18O/16O or D/H values) to some prescribed reference temperature. In contrast to the usual linear least squares fit of mean annual isotopic 〈δ〉 versus site mean annual surface temperature 〈Ts〉, a cubic equation is fitted to a composite, global, spatial (〈δ〉, 〈Ts〉) data set. A ±4‰ local variance along the curve indicates that δ values are influenced by factors other than the temperature signal, but in the long‐scale smoothing process these factors are filtered out. As 〈Ts〉 data over the complete range of raw temperatures are inhomogeneous, because of the existence of strong temperature inversions in the cold half, a transformation scheme is applied to homogenize the data. This produces a new series, 〈Tatm〉. These values are more likely to be near the mean condensation temperature (〈Tc〉) of the snow. The slope, d〈δ〉/d〈Tatm〉, as a quadratic function of 〈Tatm〉, best fits many published spatial and temporal slope determinations. The results have obvious application to the theory of isotopic processes not covered here. However, in an important practical application, the new equation can be utilized in the construction of diagrams of δ versus altitude where a δ value needs to be obtained from a known or calculated air temperature and where field data are gapped, especially at high altitude. Such diagrams can be used to demonstrate cases where site‐specific δ thermometers may become invalid because of atmospheric structural changes, as shown in an associated paper that will be briefly outlined.
Improved spectral estimation of equatorial spread F through aperiodic pulsing and Bayesian inversion
Authors: Hysell D. L. , Chau J. L. , Lakshmanan S.
Published: April 2008

Observations of coherent scatter from plasma density irregularities associated with equatorial spread F made at Jicamarca with aperiodic radar pulses are presented. Aperiodic pulses are used to resolve range and frequency aliasing of the moderately overspread target. Two strategies are considered in which the radar interpulse period undergoes small and large variations, respectively. Both strategies perform satisfactorily, although the latter provides autocorrelation functions sampled more uniformly in time, which is advantageous, particularly when few samples are available. The nonuniformly sampled radar data that result are analyzed using a Bayesian approach based on maximum entropy. A scenario for combining aperiodic pulsing and spaced‐receiver radar imaging for observing spread F is described. With this technique, it may be possible to estimate the irregularity power and energy spectral density versus wave number.
International Capacity‐Building in Monsoon Science: Advanced Institute on the Asian Monsoon System: Prediction of Change and Variability; Honolulu, Hawaii, 2–11 January 2008
Authors: Boos William , Virji Hassan , Wang Bin
Published: April 2008

More than 3 billion people in Asia rely on monsoon precipitation for water, and changes in this precipitation influence agriculture, economic activity, and public health. Given trends of population growth, rapid industrialization, and urbanization, it is important for scientists in the Asia‐Pacific region to both stay abreast of advances in monsoon science and develop collaborations to understand and predict the variability of monsoons.

Twenty early‐career meteorologists from across the Asia‐Pacific region and North America met 2–11 January 2008 to attend a series of lectures on the Asian monsoon and to explore possibilities for collaboration. The participants were selected from more than 70 applicants from universities, government labs, and meteorological forecast centers in more than 10 countries. Invited faculty from China, India, Japan, Korea, and the United States gave the lectures, with the largest group of lecturers coming from the International Pacific Research Center (IPRC) of the University of Hawai'i. The meeting was held at the East‐West Center, adjacent to the campus of the University of Hawai'i at Manoa.
The Science of Global Soil Change: Networking for Our Future: Global Soil Change Workshop; Duke University and Center for Environmental Farming Systems, Durham and Goldsboro, North Carolina, 10–13 December 2007
Authors: Billings Sharon A. , Richter Daniel Deb.
Published: April 2008

Some of the most important scientific questions today concern the future of Earth's soil. Understanding the biological, ecological, chemical, and physical processes governing soil functions is directly related to most if not all of the grand challenges in environmental science outlined by the National Academies (Grand Challenges in Environmental Sciences, National Research Council, 2001). Because of the inherently long‐term nature of soil change, addressing these questions requires research over decadal timescales. This feature of soil science presents significant challenges to those designing and implementing research programs, and yet is critical to the understanding of soil systems and the improvement of land management.
Vegetarian and Weight‐Loss Diets among Young Adults
Authors: Smith Cheryl F. , Burke Lora E. , Wing Rena R.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Young adults frequently experiment with vegetarian and weight‐loss diets. Comparisons of their experiences on these two different diets may help in the development of approaches to improve long‐term adherence to weight‐loss regimens. In the current study vegetarian and weight‐loss diets were compared on how long and how strictly they were followed, and reasons why they were initiated and discontinued.

Research Methods and Procedures: From 428 college students surveyed, four groups were delineated: 1) 59 participants had been following a vegetarian diet but not a weight‐loss diet (Vegetarian), 2) 117 participants had tried a weight‐loss diet but not a vegetarian diet (Weight Loss), 3) 133 participants had followed both a vegetarian and a weight‐loss diet (Both), and 4) 119 participants had not tried either diet (Neither).

Results: Differences were examined by comparing the Vegetarian and Weight‐Loss groups as well as by comparing the two diets within the Both group. Duration of the vegetarian diet was much greater than the weight‐loss diet; most participants in the Vegetarian group (62%) remained on their diet for more than 1 year, whereas the majority of the Weight‐Loss participants (61%) followed their diet for 1 to 3 months. Similar results were found when comparing the two diets within the Both group. How strictly the two diets were followed, however, did not differ. Analyses revealed that reasons for discontinuing a diet varied; participants were more likely to cite boredom as a reason for discontinuing a weight‐loss diet than a vegetarian diet (53% vs. 5% between groups and 30% vs. 10% within the Both group).

Discussion: The longer duration of the vegetarian diet relative to the weight‐loss diet warrants further investigation. Results could possibly be applied to behavioral weight‐loss treatment to improve long‐term maintenance.
Ethnic Differences in the Responsiveness of Adipocyte Lipolytic Activity to Insulin
Authors: Buthelezi Ernest P. , van der Merwe Maria‐Terésa , Lönnroth Peter N. , Gray I. Peter , Crowther Nigel J.
Published: April 2008

Objective: The goal of this study was to quantify differences in lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity in black and white subjects to explain ethnic clinicopathological differences in type 2 diabetes.

Research Methods and Procedures: The in vitro lipolytic activity of adipocytes isolated from obese black and white women was measured in the presence of insulin and isoproterenol. Insulin resistance was assessed in vivo using the euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp technique.

Results: Fasting plasma levels of insulin and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) in black and white women were 67 ± 5 pM vs. 152 ± 20 pM (p < 0.01) and 863 ± 93 μM vs. 412 ± 34 μM (p < 0.01), respectively. Euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp studies showed that obese black subjects were more insulin‐resistant than their white counterparts (glucose infusion rates: 1.3 ± 0.2 vs. 2.2 ± 0.3 mg/kg per min; p < 0.05). Isolated adipocytes from white women were more responsive to insulin than those from black women with 0.7 nM insulin causing a 55 ± 4% inhibition of isoproterenol‐stimulated lipolysis compared with 27 ± 10% in black women (p < 0.05).

Discussion: The low responsiveness of adipocyte lipolytic activity to insulin in black women in the presence of a relative insulinopenia may account for the high plasma NEFA levels seen in these women, which may, in turn, account for their higher in vivo insulin resistance. High NEFA levels may also contribute to the low insulin secretory activity observed in the obese black females. These data suggest that the pathogenesis of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes within the black obese community is strongly influenced by their adipocyte metabolism.
A Glucocorticoid Receptor Gene Marker Is Associated with Abdominal Obesity, Leptin, and Dysregulation of the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis
Authors: Rosmond Roland , Chagnon Yvon C. , Holm Göran , Chagnon Monique , Pérusse Louis , Lindell Kajsa , Carlsson Björn , Bouchard Claude , Björntorp Per
Published: April 2008

Objective: Abdominal obesity has a key role in the pathogenesis of prevalent and serious diseases and has been shown to be associated with an altered hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis function, which is regulated by endocrine feedback mediated via hippocampal glucocorticoid receptors (GR).

Research Methods and Procedures: We examined the HPA axis function by repeated salivary samples for the assessment of cortisol, as well as other endocrine, anthropometric, metabolic, and circulatory variables in middle‐aged Swedish men (n = 284). With the restriction enzyme BclI, variants of the GR gene (GRL) locus were identified and two alleles with fragment lengths of 4.5 and 2.3 kilobases (kb) were detected.

Results: The observed frequencies were 40.1% for the 2.3‐ and 2.3‐kb, 46.2% for the 4.5‐ and 2.3‐kb, and 13.7% for the 4.5‐ and 4.5‐kb genotypes. The larger allele (4.5 and 4.5 kb) was associated with elevated body mass index (BMI; p < 0.001), waist‐to‐hip circumference ratio (p = 0.015), abdominal sagittal diameter (p = 0.002), leptin (p < 0.001), and systolic blood pressure (borderline, p = 0.058). The 4.5‐ and 4.5‐kb allele was associated with leptin after adjustment for BMI. Moreover, salivary cortisol values, particularly after stimulation by a standardized lunch (p = 0.040 to 0.086), were elevated in the men with the larger allele.

Discussion: These results indicate that there is an association between a deficient GR function, defined as a poor feedback regulation of the HPA axis activity, and a polymorphic restriction site at the GR gene locus. An abnormal control of HPA axis function due to genetic alterations may contribute to the pathogenesis of abdominal obesity.
Increased Adipose Angiotensinogen Gene Expression in Human Obesity
Authors: van Harmelen Vanessa , Ariapart Parisa , Hoffstedt Johan , Lundkvist Inger , Bringman Sven , Arner Peter
Published: April 2008

Objective: Adipose angiotensinogen has been suggested as a stimulator of adipose tissue growth and development. Therefore, the association of subcutaneous adipose angiotensinogen gene expression with human obesity was studied.

Research Methods and Procedures: The study group consisted of 17 men, undergoing either gastric banding for obesity or elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (7 obese, 10 non‐obese men; body mass index 22 to 51 kg/m2; age 26 to 68 years). Subcutaneous adipose angiotensinogen mRNA and 18S ribosomal RNA (reference gene) levels were measured using competitive quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Adipose angiotensinogen mRNA expression was about two times increased in obesity. The levels of 18S rRNA did not differ between the two groups. Body weight correlated independently and positively with adipose angiotensinogen mRNA expression after adjusting for differences in age and height.

Discussion: Adipose angiotensinogen gene expression is elevated in obesity in men.