bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary fatty acid composition during pregnancy and the risk of asthma in the offspring
Authors: Lumia Mirka , Luukkainen Päivi , Tapanainen Heli , Kaila Minna , Erkkola Maijaliisa , Uusitalo Liisa , Niinistö Sari , Kenward Michael G. , Ilonen Jorma , Simell Olli , Knip Mikael , Veijola Riitta , Virtanen Suvi M.
Published: September 2011

To cite this article: Lumia M, Luukkainen P, Kaila M, Tapanainen H, Erkkola M, Uusitalo L, Niinistö S, Kenward MG, Ilonen J, Simell O, Knip M, Veijola R, Virtanen SM. Dietary fatty acid composition during pregnancy and the risk of asthma in the offspring. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011: 22: 827–835.

Background:  Fatty acids (FA) modulate the immune system, and it has been proposed that they affect the incidence of IgE‐mediated allergic diseases. We explored the association of maternal dietary FA composition during pregnancy with the risk of asthma in the offspring.

Methods:  We analyzed data from the Finnish Type 1 Diabetes Prediction and Prevention (DIPP) Nutrition Study. Maternal dietary intake during pregnancy (8th month) was assessed by a validated 181‐item food frequency questionnaire. The occurrence of asthma was assessed at the age of 5 yr with a questionnaire modified from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC). Cox proportional hazards regression was used for the statistical analyses.

Results:  Low maternal intakes of α‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3) [lowest quarter vs. mid‐half HR 1.67 (95% CI 1.12–2.48)] and total n‐3‐polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) [HR 1.66 (95% CI 1.11–2.48)] during pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of asthma in the offspring, while a low intake of arachidonic acid (20:4n‐6) [HR 0.52 (95% CI 0.32–0.84)] and high intake of total saturated fatty acids [highest quarter vs. mid‐half HR 0.55 (95% CI 0.34–0.90)] and palmitic acid (16:0) [HR 0.51 (95% CI 0.31–0.83)] were associated with a decreased risk of asthma. The ratios of n‐6 to n‐3‐PUFA and 18:2n‐6 to 18:3n‐3, and the maternal intake of oils, fish and fish products, showed no association with the risk of asthma. The associations found were independent of several perinatal and clinical confounders.

Conclusion:  Maternal intake of FA during pregnancy was associated with childhood asthma. Maternal α‐linolenic acid, total n‐3 PUFA and palmitic acid intake may decrease, while arachidonic acid intake may increase the risk of asthma in the offspring.
Febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha‐Habermann disease: A case with systemic symptoms managed with subcutaneous methotrexate
Authors: Lin Chin‐Yun , Cook Jason , Purvis Diana
Published: September 2011

Febrile ulceronecrotic Mucha‐Habermann disease (FUMHD) is a rare, idiopathic, acquired dermatosis that can affect all ages and ethnic groups. We present a 10‐year‐old patient with FUMHD associated with arthritis and chronic fatigue, managed with methotrexate. Through our literature review, we also explore treatment protocols for a disease for which internationally standardized management is yet to be formulated.
Restraint of children with additional needs in motor vehicles: Knowledge and challenges of paediatric occupational therapists in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Baker Anne , Galvin Jane , Vale Lisa , Lindner Helen
Published: September 2011

Aim:  This research project aimed to understand the challenges faced by occupational therapists when making recommendations regarding the restraint of children with additional needs in motor vehicles in Victoria, Australia.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey design was used to explore current practice in relation to the prescription of motor vehicle restraints in Victoria, Australia. An electronic survey was sent to occupational therapists working with children aged from birth to 18 years in early intervention services, hospitals, schools, community services or private practice.

Results:  Challenges faced by occupational therapists related to a lack of knowledge of relevant standards and legal requirements, issues seating children with behavioural difficulties, families’ inability to purchase recommended equipment and constraints as a result of funding issues.

Conclusion:  Further work is required to develop appropriate resources which support occupational therapists to make car seating recommendations for children with additional needs which comply with Australian legal requirements and standards.
Effects of hemodilution after traumatic brain injury in juvenile rats
Authors: Bertolizio Gianluca , Bissonnette Bruno , Mason Linda , Ashwal Stephen , Hartman Richard , Marcantonio Suzzanne , Obenaus Andre
Published: September 2011

Background:  Normovolemic hemodilution (HD) in adult animal studies has shown exacerbation of traumatic brain injury (TBI) lesion volumes. Similar studies in juvenile rats have not been reported and outcomes are likely to be different. This study investigated the effects of normovolemic hemodilution (21% hematocrit) in a juvenile TBI (jTBI) model.

Methods:  Twenty 17‐day‐old rats underwent moderate cortical contusion impact injury (CCI) and were divided into four groups: CCI/hemodilution (HD) (group HD), CCI/no HD (group C), Sham/HD (group SHD), and Sham/no HD (group S). Regional laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF), edema formation (MRI‐T2WI), water mobility assessed using diffusion weighted imaging (MRI‐DWI), open field activity tests, and histological analyses were evaluated for lesion characteristics.

Results:  Hemodilution significantly increased blood flow in the HD compared to the C group after TBI. T2WI revealed a significantly increased extravascular blood volume in HD at 1, 7, and 14 days post‐CCI. Edematous tissue and total contusional lesion volume were higher in HD‐treated animals at 1 and 14 days. DWI revealed that HD, SHD, and C groups had elevated water mobility compared to S groups in the ipsilateral cortex and striatum. Histology showed a larger cortical lesion in the C than HD group. Open field activity was increased in HD, C, and SHD groups compared to the S group.

Conclusions:  Hemodilution results in significant brain hyperemia with increased edema formation, extravascular blood volume, and water mobility after jTBI. Hemodilution results in less cortical damage but did not alter behavior. Hemodilution is likely not to be clinically beneficial following jTBI.
Impact of urban environment and host phenotype on the epidemiology ofChlamydiaceaein feral pigeons (Columba livia)
Authors: Gasparini J. , Erin N. , Bertin C. , Jacquin L. , Vorimore F. , Frantz A. , Lenouvel P. , Laroucau K.
Published: September 2011

Chlamydiaceaeare obligate intracellular Gram‐negative bacteria found all over the world and known to cause various forms of disease in animals and humans. Urban pigeons are known to be an important reservoir ofChlamydia psittaci, the agent of human psittacosis. In this study, we examined the influence of pigeon houses used to regulate pigeon populations and of melanin‐based coloration on several epidemiological parameters ofChlamydiaceaein 708 urban pigeons in Paris. We also identified species and genotypes ofChlamydiaceaepresent in Parisian populations. First, our results revealed that pigeons roosting and breeding in pigeon houses were equally infected byChlamydiaceaeas those that did not. Second, we found that dark melanic pigeons excreted moreChlamydiaceaethan pale melanic ones. Finally, species and strain diversities were very low: all samples were ofC. psittacigenotype B. Nevertheless, two atypicalChlamydiaceaewere identified based on 16S rRNA andompA sequences. Our study thus highlights the importance of considering environmental and host phenotype when investigating the epidemiology of infectious diseases.
Salvage high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy for local prostate cancer recurrence after radiotherapy – preliminary results
Authors: Jo Yoshimasa , Fujii Tomohiro , Hara Ryoei , Yokoyama Teruhiko , Miyaji Yoshiyuki , Yoden Eisaku , Hiratsuka Junichi , Nagai Atsushi
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Prognostic (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

There have been no reports on the application of HDR‐BT in Japan as salvage therapy for recurrence following radiotherapy.

Our data showed that salvage HDR‐BT is effective as an option for treatment of local prostate cancer recurrence after radiotherapy.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the preliminary clinical results of salvage high‐dose‐rate brachytherapy (HDR‐BT) applied in cases of suspected local recurrence or of residual tumour after radiotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The subjects were 11 patients who met the above conditions and underwent salvage HDR‐BT between December 2006 and January 2009. The T stage at the initial treatment was T1c in three patients, T2 in three patients and T3 in five patients.

Ten patients received HDR‐BT ± electron beam radiation therapy and one patient received proton beam irradiation.

Follow‐up after the completion of salvage HDR‐BT lasted 18–41 months (mean 29 months). A dose of 11.0 Gy radiation was delivered twice (22.0 Gy in total), separated by a 6‐h interval, on the day the applicators were inserted.

RESULTS

Seven of the 11 cases remained in a biochemical non‐evidence of disease state.

The prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level continuously rose after salvage HDR‐BT in three of the four other cases. Hormone administration was initiated in the four cases of PSA recurrence.

No G3 or more severe events occurred, and the incidence of G2 was low during this study period.

CONCLUSION

Of the 11 cases treated with salvage HDR‐BT, PSA levels remained low in seven cases and the incidence of complications was also low. This suggests that salvage HDR‐BT is effective as an option for treatment of local prostate cancer recurrence after radiotherapy.
Source Optimization in Optical Lithography
Authors: Barouch E. , Orszag S. A.
Published: September 2011

A method to reshape the structure of the optical source in optical lithography is presented. The goal of this reshaping is to provide a new ability to perform resolution enhancements to a cutting edge optical lithographic system. The redesign of the source’s shape is performed through an optimization scheme, which has been developed specifically for this problem. The method is presented here and several examples are given to its potential power and efficacy.
Second Language Learning Benefits from Similarity in Word Endings: Evidence from Russian
Authors: Brooks Patricia J. , Kempe Vera , Donachie Annemarie
Published: September 2011

Diminutive derivations (e.g., froggy, bootie) constitute morphophonologically similar clusters of words in child‐directed speech and serve as low‐level schema for learning morphological regularities. Previous research has demonstrated that by regularizing noun endings, diminutives (e.g., Russian: domik, svechka) facilitate word‐boundary identification and the acquisition of inflectional morphology. In this study, adult native speakers of English (N = 77) were exposed to diminutive and simplex transparently gender‐marked nouns instantiating Russian case‐marking and adjective‐noun gender‐agreement patterns, over six 1‐hour language‐learning sessions. They were subsequently tested on their ability to extend grammatical patterns to new items and vocabulary recall. Learners showed equivalent learning of the trained phrases containing diminutive and simplex nouns but were more accurate in generalizing morphological patterns to diminutive nouns. Furthermore, learners showed a diminutive advantage in vocabulary retention. By increasing the invariant parts of words, diminutive derivations may reduce the amount of phonological material to be memorized and, subsequently, enhance word learning.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma is becoming a consensus: a national survey of French centres involved in melanoma care in 2008
Authors: Lourari S. , Paul C. , Gouraud P.‐A. , Tavitian S. , Viraben R. , Leccia M.‐T. , Saiag P. , Lebbe C. , Meyer N. ,   On behalf of the Skin Oncology Working Group of the ‘Société Française de Dermatologie’ (French Society of Dermatology)
Published: September 2011

Background  The role of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in melanoma care remains controversial and is not included in most guidelines for the management of melanoma in Europe.

Objective  To evaluate the practice of SLN biopsy for melanoma.

Methods  In 2008, a self‐administered questionnaire was mailed to physicians in 49 hospitals in France.

Results  Questionnaires were returned by 34 (69.3%). A median number of 90 new cases of melanoma were treated each year per centre. SLN biopsy was performed routinely in 21 (61.7%) centres. The practice of SLN biopsy for melanoma was recommended in the local guidelines in 53% of centres. The proportion of patients reported as undergoing SLN biopsy for melanoma was significantly higher in centres with local guidelines than in centres without local guidelines (33.4 ± 21.4% vs. 13.1 ± 21.8%; P = 0.003). Where the local guidelines recommended SLN biopsy (n = 21), it was advocated in the case of Breslow thickness ≥1.0 mm (76%) and/or ulceration of the primary melanoma (38%) and/or histological regression of the primary melanoma (24%).

Conclusion  Our study may be considered representative of SLN practice in France. Contrary to current national guidelines for melanoma care in France, SLN biopsy is routinely recommended in the majority of centres. Our study shows that the practice of SLN biopsy for melanoma is increasingly performed in patients with intermediate Breslow melanoma.
Smurf2‐mediated ubiquitination and degradation of Id1 regulates p16 expression during senescence
Authors: Kong Yahui , Cui Hang , Zhang Hong
Published: September 2011

The inhibitor of differentiation or DNA binding (Id) family of transcription regulators plays an important role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and senescence. However, regulation of Id expression during these processes is poorly understood. Id proteins are known to undergo rapid turnover mediated by the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. Anaphase‐promoting complex has been shown to ubiquitinate Id2, but E3 ubiquitin ligase(s) that ubiquitinate other Id family members are not known. Here, we report for the first time the identification of Smurf2 as the E3 ligase that ubiquitinates Id1 and Id3. Smurf2‐mediated ubiquitination and consequent degradation of Id1 or Id3 plays an important role in the regulation of Id expression in senescent cells. Furthermore, we found that Id1 is the mediator through which Smurf2 regulates p16 expression, providing a mechanistic link between Smurf2 and p16 expression during senescence.
pkc‐1regulatesdaf‐2insulin/IGF signalling‐dependent control of dauer formation inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Monje José M. , Brokate‐Llanos Ana M. , Pérez‐Jiménez Mercedes M. , Fidalgo Manuel A. , Muñoz Manuel J.
Published: September 2011

InCaenorhabditis elegans, the insulin/IGF pathway participates in the decision to initiate dauer development. Dauer is a diapause stage that is triggered by environmental stresses, such as a lack of nutrients. Insulin/IGF receptor mutants arrest constitutively in dauer, an effect that can be suppressed by mutations in other elements of the insulin/IGF pathway or by a reduction in the activity of the nuclear hormone receptordaf‐12. We have isolated apkc‐1mutant that acts as a novel suppressor of the dauer phenotypes caused by insulin/IGF receptor mutations. Interactions between insulin/IGF mutants and thepkc‐1suppressor mutant are similar to those described fordaf‐12or the DAF‐12 coregulatordin‐1.Moreover, we show that the expression of the DAF‐12 targetdaf‐9, which is normally elevated upon a reduction in insulin/IGF receptor activity, is suppressed in apkc‐1mutant background, suggesting thatpkc‐1could link thedaf‐12and insulin/IGF pathways.pkc‐1has been implicated in the regulation of peptide neurosecretion inC. elegans. Although we demonstrate thatpkc‐1expression in the nervous system regulates dauer formation, our results suggest that the requirement forpkc‐1in neurosecretion is independent of its role in modulating insulin/IGF signalling.pkc‐1belongs to the novel protein kinase C (nPKC) family, members of which have been implicated in insulin resistance and diabetes in mammals, suggesting a conserved role forpkc‐1in the regulation of the insulin/IGF pathway.
A Preliminary Study on the Effect of Manuka Honey on Second‐Intention Healing of Contaminated Wounds on the Distal Aspect of the Forelimbs of Horses
Authors: Bischofberger Andrea S. , Dart Christina M. , Perkins Nigel R. , Dart Andrew J.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To determine the effect of manuka honey on second‐intention healing of contaminated, full‐thickness skin wounds in horses.

Study Design

Experimental.

Animals

Adult Standardbred horses (n = 8).

Methods

One wound was created on the dorsomedial aspect of the third metacarpus in both forelimbs, contaminated with feces, and bandaged for 24 hours. Bandages were removed and wounds rinsed with isotonic saline solution. Wounds on 1 limb had manuka honey applied daily (n = 8) whereas wounds on the contralateral limb received no treatment (n = 8). Bandages were replaced and changed daily for 12 days, after which treatment stopped, bandages were removed, leaving wounds open to heal. Wound area was measured 24 hours after wound creation (day 1), then weekly for 8 weeks. Overall time for healing was recorded. Wound area and rate of healing of treated and control wounds were compared statistically.

Results

Treatment with manuka honey decreased wound retraction and treated wounds remained significantly smaller than control wounds until day 42; however, there was no difference in overall healing time between treatment and control wounds.

Conclusions

Treatment with manuka honey reduced wound area by reducing retraction but did not affect overall healing time of full‐thickness distal limb wounds using this wound‐healing model.
Mandibular Fracture in Single‐humped Camels
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed F.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To report the causes and classification of mandibular fractures in dromedary camels and outcome after treatment.

Animals

Single‐humped camels (n = 116) with mandibular fracture.

Methods

At admission, cause, site, classification, and radiography of mandibular fractures were recorded. Factors affecting fracture healing were analyzed.

Results

Biting was the main cause of mandibular fractures in camels, which occurred more commonly in older males (P = .001) than in females. Open fractures were more common than closed ones (92.2% versus 7.8%, P = .0001) and single fractures were more frequent (82%) than multiple and comminuted fractures (18%; P = .001). Fractures were treated by interdental wiring (91.2%) or U‐shaped aluminum bar (8.8%) and healing occurred in most (83.2%) fractures.

Conclusions

In dromedary camels, mandibular fracture is most commonly caused by bites and can be successfully repaired by interdental wiring or a U‐bar technique with good outcome.
Coma, hyperammonemia, metabolic acidosis, and mutation: Lessons learned in the acute management of late onset urea cycle disorders
Authors: Iyer Hari , Sen Mithu , Prasad Chitra , Rupar C. Anthony , Lindsay Robert M.
Published: September 2011

Urea cycle disorders are an important and treatable cause of hyperammonemia in the newborn and pediatric age group. Presentation in adolescence or adult life is rare and can manifest as frequent vomiting and behavioral changes. An inherited metabolic disorder should be considered in adults with obvious or occult encephalopathy. Failure to diagnose and treat rapidly may lead to irreversible neuronal damage. An improved understanding of the diagnosis and management of late‐onset urea cycle disorders is needed to assist nephrologists in providing optimal care.

This report describes the clinical characteristics of a young man with first presentation of hyperammonemia in adult life.
Prevention of ERK activation involves melatonin‐induced G1 and G2/M phase arrest in the human osteoblastic cell line hFOB 1.19
Authors: Liu Lifeng , Zhu Yue , Xu Ying , Reiter Russel J.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Melatonin regulates mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt signaling pathways. The MAPK family mainly includes extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), p38, and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK). Our previous study documented that melatonin delays osteoblast proliferation; however, the mechanism of action of melatonin remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that melatonin significantly inhibited phosphorylation of ERK but not p38, JNK, or Akt in a human osteoblastic cell line 1.19 (hFOB), as measured by western blot. The expression of ERK, p38, JNK, and Akt was not altered. PD98059 (a selective inhibitor of MEK that disrupts downstream activation of ERK) and melatonin alone, and especially in combination, significantly induced an antiproliferative effect, G1 and G2/M phase arrest of the cell cycle, and downregulation of the expression at both the protein and mRNA levels of cyclin D1 and CDK4, related to the G1 phase, and of cyclin B1 and CDK1, related to the G2/M phase, as measured by the 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐thiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method, flow cytometry after propidium iodide staining, and both western blot and real‐time PCR, respectively. Moreover, the combination of PD98059 and melatonin synergistically and markedly augmented the action of either agent alone. Coimmunoprecipitation further confirmed that there was an interaction between phosphorylation of ERK and cyclin D1, CDK4, cyclin B1, or CDK1, which was weaken in the presence of melatonin or PD98059. These results suggest that the prevention of ERK activation is involved in melatonin‐induced G1 and G2/M phase arrest, and this inhibitory effect is potentially via the ERK, but not p38, JNK, or Akt, pathway.
Co‐occurrence‐based measure of species' habitat specialization: robust, unbiased estimation in saturated communities
Authors: Botta‐Dukát Zoltán
Published: September 2011

Aims

Large vegetation plot databases enable the estimation of niche width from species co‐occurrence data. Different indices have been proposed for this purpose, but do not give unbiased (i.e. independent of species pool size) and robust estimates over a wide range of conditions. The aims of the paper are to: (1) demonstrate the limitations of different methods, and (2) propose a new algorithm that results in unbiased and robust estimates.

Results

Whittaker's β‐diversity, calculated from raw data, is an unbiased niche width measure only if the relationship between γ‐diversity and local richness is linear. However, this requirement is satisfied only in specific conditions, if both γ‐diversity and local richness are linear functions of the species pool size with zero intercept. I propose the use of Beals smoothing to estimate species pools. It has been proved through analysis of simulated data that Whittaker's β calculated from species pool data is an unbiased estimate of niche width. I have shown that the robustness of the estimate can be improved by excluding extremely species‐rich plots. The relative role of methodological decisions during niche width estimation was explored through analysis of a large field data set (>8000 relevés).

Conclusions

The proposed algorithm results in robust, unbiased estimation, even in saturated communities, thus it avoids the drawbacks of the co‐occurrence‐based niche width measures proposed earlier.
LOVE AND RUIN(S): ROBERT FROST ON MORAL REPAIR
Authors: Frank Jeff
Published: September 2011

This essay begins where Alasdair MacIntyre's After Virtue begins: facing a moral world in ruin. MacIntyre argues that this predicament leaves us with a choice: we can follow the path of Friedrich Nietzsche, accepting this moral destruction and attempting to create lives in a rootless, uncertain world, or the path of Aristotle, working to reclaim a world in which close‐knit communities sustain human practices that make it possible for us to flourish. Jeff Frank rejects MacIntyre's framework and in this essay attempts to create an alternative path, one of moral repair. Through a close reading of several poems from Robert Frost's North of Boston, Frank develops the notion of moral repair and describes its ethical and educational implications.
An Assessment of the Efficacy and Safety of Sildenafil Administered to Patients with Erectile Dysfunction Referred for Posterior Urethroplasty: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Fu Qiang , Sun XianJun , Tang ChenYe , Cui RenJie , Chen Lei
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Urethral trauma is often associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Reconstructive surgery is complex and may impact negatively on sexual function.

Aim

The aim of this article is to investigate ED in patients with pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects (PFUDD) who underwent urethroplasty, and efficacy of treatment with sildenafil citrate.

Main Outcome Measures

A total of 41 patients with urethral stricture who suffered from PFUDD were assessed to exclude systemic diseases that may cause ED, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and chronic liver disease. The International Index of Erectile Function-5 was used as an evaluation tool. Assessments were made at three time points: the time of admission, two weeks after urethroplasty, and 3 months post-treatment with sildenafil.

Methods

Pharmacopenile duplex ultrasonography was used to examine blood flow of the cavernosum in order to distinguish arterial ED, venous ED, and nonvascular ED. All patients were treated with oral sildenafil, 100 mg once daily, three times a week, for 3 months.

Results

The incidence of ED following injury was 95.12%. There were no significant changes in scores following surgery. However, sildenafil had a success rate of approximately 81%, which appeared to be independent of age. Drug treatment seemed most effective for those with less severe ED at the outset. There was no significant difference in scores post-treatment between those who had vascular and nonvascular ED. Overall, the incidence of side effects due to sildenafil was 19.5%.

Conclusions

Urethral trauma is frequently associated with ED. Sildenafil citrate is useful in the drug treatment of ED in these patients and appears to be well-tolerated.
LIGHT HYDROCARBONS IN SOIL GAS ABOVE PROSPECTIVE OIL‐ AND GAS‐BEARING STRUCTURES: POMERANIAN SYNCLINORIUM, NW POLAND
Authors: Sechman H. , Dzieniewicz M. , Nowicka A.
Published: September 2011

The occurrence of methane and heavier homologues and unsaturated hydrocarbons was recorded in 226 soil gas samples recovered from a study area in the Pomeranian Synclinorium, NW Poland. Samples were collected at stations located along three survey lines (I–I', II–II’ and III–III') at a 200 m spacing. Concentrations of methane, total alkanes (C2‐C4) and total alkenes (C2‐C4) reached 13.7 vol. %, 18.4 ppm and 0.56 ppm, respectively. Soil gas alkanes heavier than methane were interpreted to be derived from subsurface hydrocarbon accumulations. These hydrocarbons migrated up into the near‐surface zone along structural discontinuities and fractures which were observed on seismic profiles.

The migration rate of hydrocarbons from subsurface accumulations towards the surface was determined by the ethane/ethylene (C2/C2=) ratio. The statistical distribution of the ethane:propane (C2/C3) ratio and plots of the C2/C3+C4 and C1/C2+C3 ratios indicated that accumulations of condensate, gas or oil with a gas cap probably occur in the study area. Variations in normalized values of total alkane C2‐C4 concentrations allowed surface geochemical anomaly zones to be identified. These anomaly zones were evidence for the occurrence of subsurface hydrocarbon accumulations.

Hydrocarbon accumulations are most likely to occur beneath the central part of profile II–II' and may also occur in the SW and NE parts of profile III–III' where both the Carboniferous and the Zechstein Main Dolomite are prospective. In these areas, hydrocarbon accumulations may occur in fault‐bounded anticlinal highs.

Surface geochemical anomalies also confirm the presence of a non‐commercial hydrocarbon accumulation in the Main Dolomite which was discovered by the D‐1 well, and the possibility of another subsurface accumulation in an adjacent tectonic block. Soil gas analyses combined with seismic data provide evidence for the hydrocarbon prospectivity of the study area.
SYNDEPOSITIONAL TECTONIC CONTROLS AND PALAEO‐TOPOGRAPHY OF A PERMIAN TIGHT GAS RESERVOIR IN NW GERMANY
Authors: Vackiner A.A. , Antrett P. , Stollhofen H. , Back S. , Kukla P.A. , Bärle C.
Published: September 2011

A combined tectonic‐stratigraphic interpretation of three‐dimensional seismic reflection, wireline log and core data is presented in this study focussing on a tight gas field in East Frisia, NW Germany. Upper Rotliegend reservoir rocks in the study area are of fluvio‐aeolian origin and include dune, minor sandflat and wet to dry interdune deposits. Source rocks are Westphalian coals and a top seal is provided by Zechstein evaporites.

Detailed analyses of palaeo‐topography, fault activity and accommodation space development for strata of Permian age (Rotliegend and Zechstein groups) indicate that local depocentres developed within small‐scale fault‐controlled transtensional sub‐basins. Synsedimentary half‐graben development and fault activity occurred during Upper Rotliegend II (mainly Elbe Subgroup) deposition. Many Upper Rotliegend structures were then reactivated during the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous, often with enhanced offsets and increased lateral extent. As a consequence, Rotliegend structures and stratigraphy were significantly displaced resulting in the relocation of former Rotliegend depocentres and associated tight gas reservoir facies. This tectonic overprint hampers the prediction of potential Rotliegend reservoirs, and shows that palaeo‐environmental restoration is required in areas which have undergone multi‐phase deformation histories.

Exploration strategies in the study area have favoured drilling locations in present‐day structural highs. This study suggests that sediment traps were controlled by synsedimentary Upper Rotliegend II to Zechstein palaeo‐topography, defining a new concept for future tight gas exploration.
PETROLEUM ACCUMULATIONS AND INVERSION STRUCTURES IN THE XIHU DEPRESSION, EAST CHINA SEA BASIN
Authors: Yang F.‐L. , Xu X. , Zhao W.‐F. , Sun Z.
Published: September 2011

The central inversion zone in the Xihu Depression, East China Sea, was formed during the Late Miocene. The entire Tertiary succession, nearly 10,000 m thick, has undergone inversion here. The succession is composed mainly of sandstones and mudstones with minor coals and non‐marine limestones. Hydrocarbons are present in a series of structural traps which formed as a result of inversion‐related deformation. Oil and gas exploration in the Xihu Depressions has demonstrated that at least 90% of the commercial reserves so far found occur in inversion‐related structural traps in the central inversion zone, mainly in Eocene (Pinghu Formation) and Oligocene (Huagang Formation) sandstone reservoirs. Previous studies have shown that structural traps are controlled by the intensity and style of inversion tectonics. However, the relationship between the geometry, kinematics and size of the inversion structures and the oil and gas accumulations is not well understood.

In this paper, the factors controlling trap formation (and hydrocarbon acumulations) in the study area are considered. Data came from 2D reflection seismic and electic logs from a number of wells. Controlling factors include inversion fault activity rate, inversion rate and the thickness of sediments eroded as a result of inversion‐related uplift of the Tertiary succession. The results show that the best exploration targets are located in the southern part of the central inversion zone. This area has a relatively low inversion fault activity rate (average 3.0 m/Ma) and a low inversion rate (average 0.4); a relatively small thickness of sediments was eroded from the Miocene Longjing and Liulang Formations (< 400 m) and the Eocene Pinghu Formation. By contrast, the northern part of the central inversion zone has a relatively high inversion fault activity rate (average 6.8 m/Ma) and a high inversion rate (0.8), and greater thicknesses of sediments were erosively removed (up to 1600 m). This may have resulted in the less favourable preservation of traps and the large‐scale leakage of oil and gas. Most oil and gas accumulations occur in the southern part of the central inversion zone, especially in reservoirs in the Longjing, Liulang and Pinghu Formations.
Effect of Freezing Temperature on the Color of Frozen Salmon
Authors: Ottestad Silje , Enersen Grethe , Wold Jens Petter
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  New freezing methods developed with the purpose of improved product quality after thawing can sometimes be difficult to get accepted in the market. The reason for this is the formation of ice crystals that can give the product a temporary color loss and make it less appealing. We have here used microscopy to study ice crystal size as a function of freezing temperature by investigating the voids in the cell tissue left by the ice crystals. We have also investigated how freezing temperature affects the color and the visible absorption spectra of frozen salmon. Freezing temperatures previously determined to be the best for quality after thawing (–40 to –60 °C) were found to cause a substantial loss in perceived color intensity during frozen state. This illustrated the conflict between optimal freezing temperatures with respect to quality after thawing against visual appearance during frozen state. Low freezing temperatures gave many small ice crystals, increased light scattering and an increased absorption level for all wavelengths in the visible region. Increased astaxanthin concentration on the other hand would give higher absorption at 490 nm. The results showed a clear potential of using visible interactance spectroscopy to differentiate between poor product coloration due to lack of pigmentation and temporary color loss due to light scattering by ice crystal. This type of measurements could be a useful tool in the development of new freezing methods and to monitor ice crystal growth during frozen storage. It could also potentially be used by the industry to prove good product quality.

Practical Application:  In this article we have shown that freezing food products at intermediate to low temperatures (–40 to –80 °C) can result in paler color during frozen state, which could affect consumer acceptance. We have also presented a spectroscopic method that can separate between poor product color and temporary color loss due to freezing.
Inactivation of Vegetative Cells by Continuous High‐Pressure Processing: New Insights on the Contribution of Thermal Effects and Release Device
Authors: Cavender George A. , Kerr William.L.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Dynamic or continuous high‐pressure processing of fluid foods has drawn significant interest as a microbial reduction process in the past decade, and many attempts have been made to better understand the mechanisms involved in that reduction. This study was intended to provide insight into the contributions of thermal effects and differences in pressure release components in the inactivation of 2 vegetative pathogen analogs—the Gram‐positive Listeria innocua and the Gram‐negative Escherichia coli. Fluids containing microbial loads of 108 or greater were subjected to continuous high‐pressure processing at 200 to 210 MPa. Without active cooling of the release components, all fluids experienced a temperature rise in excess of 70 °C, thus occluding any pressure‐related effects for all release components. Active cooling of the valve bodies of the 2 valve‐style release components (a conical disruption valve and a micrometering valve) allowed the temperature rise to be abated enough to isolate the effects unique to a given valve. In Tryptic soy broth trials, the mean inactivation levels of E. coli between valves were similar—5.16 log and 5.33 log for the micrometering and conical disruption valves, respectively. When repeated with L. innocua, a similar inactivation level was observed in the conical disruption valve (5.1 log) but not the micrometering valve (3.02). Listeria innocua trials were also repeated using fluid whole milk, which showed a lower levels of inactivation—2.04 log for the micrometering valve and 2.51 log for the conical valve.

Practical Applications:  This paper compares some of the most common pressure release components used in continuous high‐pressure processing and attempts to isolate the contributions of thermal effects from those of pressure and shear. This information is important to those seeking to compare and evaluate the effectiveness of a proposed set of process parameters for microbial inactivation. Further, the ability to reduce the extreme nature of the temperature rise has the potential to expand the use of process into more temperature sensitive products.
Preferences for Berries Among Consumers in Southern Chile: Blueberries Are Produced but Are They Consumed?
Authors: Schnettler Berta , Miranda Horacio , Sepúlveda José , Denegri Marianela , Mora Marcos , Lobos Germán
Published: September 2011

Abstract: Blueberry plantations in Chile are oriented exclusively towards exports to northern hemisphere countries; however, this fruit has recently been introduced into the domestic market due to the increased supply and a fall in export market prices. Based on the previously mentioned, the objectives of the present study were to evaluate consumer preferences for 3 species of berries (blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries), sold loose (unpackaged) as opposed to packaged and branded, at different prices, in one of the principal blueberry producing areas of Chile; and to distinguish consumer segments by their preferences. To do this a survey was applied to 400 people in the Araucanía Region of southern Chile, who were responsible for purchasing fruit for their households. Conjoint analysis showed a preference for raspberries and strawberries over blueberries, packaged and branded, at the lowest price. Total of 2 principal segments were distinguished by cluster analysis: “price sensitive” (42.7%), who preferred strawberries, and “sensitive to species of berry” (47.5%), who preferred raspberries and strawberries. The segments presented different profiles in their demographic make‐up and fruit consumption behavior. Strategies are discussed that might reverse the low acceptance of blueberries in the Chilean domestic market.

Practical Application: This study presents information on the introduction of new fresh foods into the market.
Efficacy of Cold‐Pressed Terpeneless Valencia Oil and Its Primary Components on Inhibition of Listeria Species by Direct Contact and Exposure to Vapors
Authors: Shannon Erin M. , Milillo Sara R. , Johnson Michael G. , Ricke Steven C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  This study used disk diffusion assays to evaluate the effectiveness of cold‐pressed terpeneless Valencia oil (CPTVO) and its primary components (linalool, citral, and decanal) at inhibiting Listeria via direct contact or exposure to vapors. In general, all Listeria strains tested responded similarly to CPTVO and its components. Direct contact with linalool produced zones of inhibition that were significantly smaller (P < 0.0001) than those associated with all other antimicrobials tested. Zones of inhibition for sealed plates were significantly larger (P < 0.0001) than those observed for unsealed plates, although the method for sealing the plates was insignificant. Exposure to CPTVO vapors resulted in zones of inhibition that were significantly smaller than those resulting from decanal vapors (P < 0.0001). The difference observed between the zones of inhibition produced by antimicrobial exposure via vapors or direct contact was only slightly significant (P = 0.02). Antimicrobial essential oil (EO) vapors may be an effective alternative to direct contact EOs to safely and effectively inhibit microorganisms while minimizing undesired organoleptic changes sometimes associated with EO contact. CPTVO and its primary components, decanal and citral, may have potential in the food industry as all natural, generally recognized as safe antimicrobials used in modified atmosphere packaging designed to inhibit Listeria without requiring direct contact with food products.
Sources of variation in reflectance spectrophotometric data: a quantitative analysis using avian eggshell colours
Authors: Cassey Phillip , Hauber Mark E. , Maurer Golo , Ewen John G.
Published: September 2011

1. The evolution of coloration has generated some of the most diverse and variable phenotypes, both within and between species, in animals and plants. The objective quantitative assessment of the physical, chemical and perceptual basis of coloration has been greatly improved by the application of portable full‐spectrum spectrophotometers to measure reflectance data. Yet, the analysis and interpretation of physical measures of colour spectra must be conducted within the constraints of the uncertainty regarding the relative impacts of methodological vs. biological sources of variation.

2. Here, we characterise the components of variation in data on reflectance spectra, related to sample storage and measurement equipment, to characterise colourful pigmentation of eggshells (Class: Aves) of two Turdus species. We quantified longitudinal shifts in reflectance occurring over repeated measurements of the same sets of avian eggshells. Shells were sampled at the time of collection and again after 5 years of dark storage using the same equipment. These data were then compared with spectra obtained from the same eggs after the storage with a different model of spectrophotometer for three colour metrics [blue‐green chroma (BGC), UV chroma and brightness].

3. Blue‐green chroma and brightness of the same eggs varied systematically between years at a similar magnitude to the biological variation among different eggs. This suggests the need for future research into the extent of chemical and physical deterioration of eggshell appearance even during relatively short‐term storage. The variation introduced by using two different spectrophotometers also was significant but relatively small compared with biological levels of variation for UV and brightness.

4. Our results confirm quantitatively that museum eggshell specimens are suitable for interspecific comparative analyses, but also highlight the requirement to account explicitly for variation in storage duration and measurement equipment, when ‘objectively’ comparing biological variation in coloration across individuals in space and also in time.
Flow-Induced Noise and Vibration in Aircraft Cylindrical Cabins: Closed-Form Analytical Model Validation
Authors: da Rocha Joana , Suleman Afzal , Lau Fernando
Published: September 2011

The turbulent boundary layer is a major source of interior noise in transport vehicles, mainly in aircraft during cruise flight. Furthermore, as new and quieter jet engines are being developed, the turbulent flow-induced noise will become an even more important topic for investigation. However, in order to design and develop systems to reduce the cabin interior noise, the understanding of the physical system dynamics is fundamental. In this context, the main objective of the current research is to develop closed-form analytical models for the prediction of turbulent boundary-layer-induced noise in the interior of aircraft cylindrical cabins. The mathematical model represents the structural-acoustic coupled system, consisted by the aircraft cabin section coupled with the fuselage structure. The aircraft cabin section is modeled as a cylindrical acoustic enclosure, filled with air. The fuselage structure, excited by external random excitation or by turbulent flow, is represented through two different models: (1) as a whole circular cylindrical shell with simply supported end caps and (2) as a set of individual simply supported open circular cylindrical shells. This paper presents the results obtained from the developed analytical framework and its validation through the successful comparison with several experimental studies. Analytical predictions are obtained for the shell structural vibration and sound pressure levels, for the frequency range up to 10,000 Hz.
Reduced Order Models of Mistuned Cracked Bladed Disks
Authors: Marinescu Olguta , Epureanu Bogdan I. , Banu Mihaela
Published: September 2011

Predicting the influence of cracks on the dynamics of bladed disks is a very important challenge. Cracks change the structural response, which in turn changes the crack propagation characteristics. Hence, accurate and computationally effective means to model the dynamics of cracked bladed disks and blisks is particularly crucial in applications such as prognosis, guidance for repairs, characterization after repairs, design, and structural health monitoring. Most current models of bladed disks exploit cyclic symmetry to gain computational efficiency. However, the presence of cracks and mistuning destroys that symmetry and makes computational predictions much more expensive. In this work, we propose a new reduced order modeling methodology that can speed up computations by several orders of magnitude. There are two key components of the new methodology. First, the displacements and deformations of the crack surfaces are not modeled in absolute coordinates but relative coordinates, which allows for an effective model reduction based on (fixed-interface Craig–Bampton) component mode synthesis (CMS). The use of relative coordinates allows one to define one of the components in CMS as the pristine/uncracked structure (with mistuning). This approach is used in combination with a set of accurate approximations for the constraint modes used in CMS. Second, the effects of mistuning are captured by component mode mistuning, which allows the construction of extremely efficient reduced order models for the pristine/uncracked component with mistuning. The novel proposed method is applied to a finite element model of an industrial blisk. The combined presence of mistuning and cracks is shown to have important effects. Also, the proposed approach is shown to provide accurate predictions for the overall blisk while requiring computations using single-sector models only. The influence of various parameters on the accuracy of the reduced order models is investigated. Overall, the results show a very good agreement between full finite element analyses and the proposed reduced order modeling approach.
Characteristics of Modal Sound Radiation of Finite Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Lin Tian Ran , Mechefske Chris , O’Shea Peter
Published: September 2011

Characteristics of modal sound radiation of finite cylindrical shells are studied using finite element and boundary element methods in this paper. In the low frequency range, modal radiation efficiencies of finite cylindrical shells are found to asymptotically approach those of the corresponding infinite cylindrical shell when structural trace wavelengths of the cylindrical shells are greater than the acoustic wavelength. Modal radiation efficiencies for each group of modes having the same circumferential modal index decrease as the axial modal index increases. They converge to each other when the axial trace wavelength is much greater than the circumferential trace wavelength. The mechanism leading to lower radiation efficiency of modes with higher circumferential modal index of short cylinders is explained. Similar to those of flat plate panels, change in slope or waviness is observed in modal radiation efficiency curves of modes with higher order axial modal index at medium frequencies. This is attributed to the interference of sound radiated by neighboring vibrating cells when the distance between nodal lines of a vibrating mode is in the same order or smaller than the acoustic wavelength. The effects of the internal sound field on modal radiation efficiencies of a finite open-end cylinder are discussed.