bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socioeconomic Inequalities in Relative Survival of Rectal Cancer Most Obvious in Stage III
Authors: Olsson L. I. , Granstrom F.
Published: September 2014

Introduction

The association between socioeconomic status (SES) and relative survival of rectal cancer is little investigated. We hypothesized that the impact on risk of death by SES would be much smaller when differences in background mortality (comorbidity, lifestyle factors) were taken into account, i.e. in modelling relative survival of rectal cancer.

Methods

Individual data on civil status, education, and income were linked to the Swedish Rectal Cancer Registry 1995–2005 (n = 16,713). Specific life tables by socioeconomic group were used to calculate relative survival, and modelling included age, sex, stage, time period, and SES. The same covariates were applied in a Cox regression based on absolute survival.

Results

Stage distribution was associated with civil status, education, and income (p < 0.001). In spite of modelling based on relative survival, an increased risk of death was found for all other patients compared with those who were married, as well as for all other patients compared with those with the highest income. The pattern was fundamentally the same as in a Cox regression model, only the point estimates were slightly reduced using the relative approach. In stage‐specific modelling of relative survival, income was of particular importance in stage III; the hazard ratio (HR) for lowest versus the highest income was 1.37 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.15–1.64]. There were also significant differences by income among patients who had a major surgical resection (stage IV excluded).

Conclusion

Large and clinically relevant socioeconomic inequalities remained in stage‐adjusted analyses of relative survival, also in a setting of universal healthcare and no screening program operating.
Single Versus Double Roux‐en‐Y Reconstruction Techniques in Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Comparative Single‐Center Study
Authors: Uzunoglu Faik G. , Reeh Matthias , Wollstein Romy , Melling Nathaniel , Perez Daniel , Vashist Yogesh K. , Bogoevski Dean , Izbicki Jakob R. , Bockhorn Maximilian
Published: September 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of single Roux‐en‐Y reconstruction (RYR) and double Roux‐en‐Y reconstruction (dRYR) on intraoperative outcome and postoperative morbidity and mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or pylorus‐preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD).

Methods

All patients who underwent surgery between 2000 and 2005 for dRYR and RYR after PD or PPPD at the study hospital were evaluated for inclusion. Comparison of categorical patient characteristics was performed using the χ2 test. Data were reported as median and range. Differences were analyzed with the Mann–Whitney U test. Postoperative complications were graded according to the Clavien‐Dindo classification scheme and the recommendations of the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS).

Results

A total of 319 patients were included in final analysis. The median time of surgery was significantly shorter when performing a single Roux‐en‐Y loop reconstruction (55 min in PD and 50 min in PPPD) (p < 0.001). Saved time had a significant effect on the cost of surgery (p < 0.001). No impact on postoperative outcome according to the Clavien‐Dindo classification, the ISGPS definitions of pancreatic fistulas, and delayed gastric emptying was evident. The relaparotomy rate due to severe postoperative hemorrhage was significantly higher in the dRYR PD cohort (2.2 vs. 11.9 %, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Double Roux‐en‐Y reconstruction of the alimentary tract is not beneficial in terms of surgical outcome and postoperative morbidity and mortality and should be avoided due to unnecessarily prolonged surgery.
Surgery for Secondary Aorto‐Enteric Fistula or Erosion (SAEFE) Complicating Aortic Graft Replacement: A Retrospective Analysis of 32 Patients with Particular Focus on Digestive Management
Authors: Schoell Thibaut , Manceau Gilles , Chiche Laurent , Gaudric Julien , Gibert Hadrien , Tresallet Christophe , Hannoun Laurent , Vaillant Jean‐Christophe , Koskas Fabien , Karoui Mehdi
Published: September 2014

Background

Optimal management of patients with abdominal secondary aorto‐enteric fistula or erosion (SAEFE) complicating aortic graft replacement is controversial.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to report on the postoperative and long‐term outcomes of patients operated on for SAEFE.

Methods

From 2002 to 2012, consecutive patients operated on for SAEFE were identified. All were managed with in situ revascularization by cryopreserved allograft associated with the treatment of the digestive tract involved. Postoperative and long‐term outcomes were collected prospectively and analysed retrospectively.

Results

A total of 32 patients (median age 65 years) underwent an aortic replacement for SAEFE after a median of 5 years after the initial aortic surgery. Fistula location was duodenal (n = 20), small bowel (n = 6), colonic (n = 5), or gastric (n = 1). Digestive treatment included suture (n = 16), resection with anastomosis (n = 13), and Hartmann’s procedure (n = 3). An omentoplasty was performed in 18 patients (56 %), and 17 patients (53 %) had a feeding jejunostomy. Postoperative mortality was 25 %. Among perioperative risk factors, preoperative shock was associated with postoperative mortality (p = 0.009). Among the 24 patients who survived, 15 patients developed 27 postoperative complications (overall morbidity rate of 62.5 %), including six (25 %) patients with severe morbidity (Dindo III–IV). Reoperation was required in five (21 %) patients. During follow‐up (median 31 months), no patient developed a recurrent aorto‐enteric fistula.

Conclusions

Surgery for SAEFE is a major undertaking, with high mortality and morbidity. Excision of the prosthetic graft with cryopreserved allograft replacement and management in a tertiary referral centre with expertise in both vascular and digestive surgery allows good long‐term results.
Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism and Its Pharmacological Prophylaxis in Asian General Surgery Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yeo Danson X. W. , Junnarkar Sameer , Balasubramaniam Sunder , Tan Yen Pin , Low Jee Keem , Woon Winston , Pang Tony Chun Yeung
Published: September 2014

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition that has always been perceived to be rare in Asia. The aim of this systematic review was to gather the current available evidence on the incidence of VTE in this population. A secondary aim was to assess the efficacy of pharmacological prophylaxis, and hence determine its role, in the Asian population.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in June 2014. Articles found using search terms related to venous thromboembolism (VTE), Asian countries and general surgery procedures and pathologies were screened using the following inclusion criteria: (1) either the population studied was primarily Asian or the study was conducted in an Asian country, (2) the subjects studied underwent a major gastrointestinal or other general surgery procedure, (3) the primary outcome was the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolus (PE), and (4) secondary outcomes assessed included mortality and complications due to the VTE or prophylaxis against VTE.

Results

Fourteen publications with a total of 11,218 patients were analyzed. Nine of the fourteen were observational studies, with half being prospective in nature. There were five interventional studies of which two were randomized controlled trials. Among the observational studies, the median (range) incidence of above‐knee DVT was 0.08 % (0–2.9 %), while the median (range) incidence of PE was 0.18 % (0–0.58 %). The rates of DVT in the control groups were reported to be between 0 and 7.4 %, while the incidence of PE in the control groups ranged from 0 to 1.9 %. Analysis of the comparative studies revealed that the incidence of bleeding‐related complications varied from 0 to 18.1 % in the low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) group compared to 0–7.5 % in the control group. The difference in minor bleeding complications between the LMWH group and the control group was found to be statistically significant.

Conclusion

Data from this systematic review suggest that the risk of VTE in Asian general surgery patients is low, even in the context of risk factors typically regarded as high risk.
Is Resection of an Esophageal Epiphrenic Diverticulum Always Necessary in the Setting of Achalasia?
Authors: Allaix Marco E. , Borraez Segura Bernardo A. , Herbella Fernando A. , Fisichella Piero M. , Patti Marco G.
Published: September 2014

Background

Esophageal epiphrenic diverticulum (ED) is usually secondary to a primary esophageal motility disorder, such as achalasia. Whereas the recommended surgical treatment includes esophageal myotomy and diverticulectomy, the outcome of patients in whom a myotomy without ED resection is performed is not known. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome of ED patients who underwent ED resection and myotomy and those of ED patients who had a myotomy only.

Methods

Retrospective review of a prospective database. Thirteen ED patients had symptom evaluation, barium swallow, endoscopy, and esophageal high‐resolution manometry (HRM). All patients underwent laparoscopic myotomy and Dor fundoplication. In six patients, the ED was resected (excised ED group), whereas in seven it was left in place (nonexcised ED group): in three because it was small and in four for technical reasons.

Results

Preoperatively all patients had dysphagia and 85 % had regurgitation. The mean preoperative Eckardt score was 6.5 ± 2.1 in excised ED group and 6.6 ± 3.3 in nonexcised ED group (p = 0.95). HRM showed type II esophageal achalasia in 85 % of patients. One excised ED group patient had a staple line leak (17 %). At a median follow‐up of 2 years, the Eckardt score was 0 in excised ED group and 0.1 in nonexcised ED group (p = 0.56).

Conclusions

The results of this study showed that patients in whom a myotomy without ED resection was performed had resolution of their symptoms. These findings suggest that in patients with achalasia and ED the underlying motility disorder rather than the ED may be the cause of symptoms. Studies with a larger number of patients and a longer follow‐up will determine the validity of this approach.
Rethinking the Two-Body Problem: The Segregation of Women Into Geographically Dispersed Occupations
Authors: Benson Alan
Published: September 2014

Empirical research on the family cites the tendency for couples to relocate for husbands’ careers as evidence against the gender neutrality of household economic decisions. For these studies, occupational segregation is a concern because occupations are not random by sex and mobility is not random by occupation. I find that the tendency for households to relocate for husbands’ careers is better explained by the segregation of women into geographically dispersed occupations rather than by the direct prioritization of men’s careers. Among never-married workers, women relocate for work less often than men, and the gender effect disappears after occupational segregation is accounted for. Although most two-earner families feature husbands in geographically clustered jobs involving frequent relocation for work, families are no less likely to relocate for work when it belongs to the wife. I conclude that future research in household mobility should treat occupational segregation occurring prior to marriage rather than gender bias within married couples as the primary explanation for the prioritization of husbands’ careers in household mobility decisions.
Information Asymmetry and Co-Creation in Health Care Services
Authors: Barile Sergio , Saviano Marialuisa , Polese Francesco
Published: September 2014

With the aim of addressing a gap in service research on co-creation in health care, this study discusses the problem of information asymmetry in the service provider–user relationship by adopting the Viable Systems Approach. We develop a three-step interpretative framework to support the understanding of the health service relationship by going beyond the traditional information asymmetry view towards a framework capable of examining the human side of service interaction. Using the case of the Italian Health System, we discuss whether and how the problem of information asymmetry affects the health care provider–user co-creation relationship. Our findings open up a wider view of information asymmetry, suggesting a shift in focus from information sharing to interpretation schemes sharing, all the way up to values sharing, offering new insights for co-creation in health care.
Analysis of Presenilin 1 and 2 interacting proteins in mouse cerebral cortex during development
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Thakur M.K.
Published: September 2014

In our previous report, we showed that Presenilin (PS)1 and 2 have differential expression profile from early embryonic stages till adulthood in mouse cerebral cortex, suggesting that both of these proteins are crucial for brain development. Genetic manipulation studies have also shown the involvement of PS1 in brain development, but PS2 remains largely unexplored. In order to understand how PS1 and 2 mediate developmental functions, we have investigated the interaction of PS1 and 2 with proteins of mouse cerebral cortex during development. Co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) combined with MALDI‐MS/MS analysis revealed 12 interacting partners of PS1 and 11 partners of PS2. The interacting proteins were different for PS1 and 2, and involved in cell division, glycolysis, cell adhesion and protein trafficking. Densitometric analysis of protein bands visualized after SDS‐PAGE separation of Co‐IP proteins revealed variation in their amount and degree of interaction during different developmental stages of mice. Further, immunoblot based validation of PS1 interacting protein Notch‐1 showed maximum interaction at embryonic day (E) 12.5, decline at E18.5, upregulation from postnatal day 0 (P0) to P20 and thereafter reduction at P45 and 20 weeks. In‐silico analysis of PS and its interacting proteins indicated conformation based interaction through common type of secondary structures having alpha helical, extended beta strand and random coil, and CK2, PKC phosphorylation and myristoylation motifs. Taken together, our study showed that PS1 and PS2 interact to varying extent with different proteins of mouse cerebral cortex and suggests their interaction based on specific conformation and involvement in diverse functions essential for the brain development.
On (co)homology of Frobenius Poisson algebras
Authors: Zhu Can , Van Oystaeyen Fred , Zhang Yinhuo
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we study Poisson (co)homology of a Frobenius Poisson algebra. More precisely, we show that there exists a duality between Poisson homology and Poisson cohomology of Frobenius Poisson algebras, similar to that between Hochschild homology and Hochschild cohomology of Frobenius algebras. Then we use the non-degenerate bilinear form on a unimodular Frobenius Poisson algebra to construct a Batalin-Vilkovisky structure on the Poisson cohomology ring making it into a Batalin-Vilkovisky algebra.
High Rayleigh number convection in a porous medium containing a thin low-permeability layer
Authors: Hewitt Duncan R. , Neufeld Jerome A. , Lister John R.
Published: September 2014

Porous geological formations are commonly interspersed with thin, roughly horizontal, low-permeability layers. Statistically steady convection at high Rayleigh number $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}\mathit{Ra}$ is investigated numerically in a two-dimensional porous medium that is heated at the lower boundary and cooled at the upper, and contains a thin, horizontal, low-permeability interior layer. In the limit that both the dimensionless thickness $h$ and permeability $\Pi $ of the low-permeability layer are small, the flow is described solely by the impedance of the layer $\Omega = h/\Pi $ and by $\mathit{Ra}$. In the limit $\Omega \to 0$ (i.e. $h \to 0$), the system reduces to a homogeneous Rayleigh–Darcy (porous Rayleigh–Bénard) cell. Two notable features are observed as $\Omega $ is increased: the dominant horizontal length scale of the flow increases; and the heat flux, as measured by the Nusselt number $\mathit{Nu}$, can increase. For larger values of $\Omega $, $\mathit{Nu}$ always decreases. The dependence of the flow on $\mathit{Ra}$ is explored, over the range $2500 \leqslant \mathit{Ra} \leqslant 2\times 10^4$. Simple one-dimensional models are developed to describe some of the observed features of the relationship $\mathit{Nu}(\Omega )$.
Flow and solute transport through a periodic array of vertical cylinders in shallow water
Authors: Guo Xiaoyu , Wang Benlong , Mei Chiang C.
Published: September 2014

A micro-mechanical theory is proposed for the prediction of macro-scale properties of flow and dispersion in a current through a periodic array of vertical cylinders standing on a horizontal bed. A two-scale analysis reduces the numerical task to the solution of two canonical boundary value problems in a unit cell. Using measured data on the drag coefficient measured for an array in open channels, the eddy viscosity in the interstitial flow on the micro-scale is calculated for a wide range of Reynolds numbers. The macro-scale relation between the mean velocity and the surface gradient is found in the form of a nonlinear Darcy’s law. The interstitial velocity is then used to derive the macro-scale convection diffusion equation for the solute concentration, also by a two-scale analysis. The Taylor dispersivity and the total effective diffusivity are computed for a wide range of flow rates and solid fractions. Features specific to the periodic geometry are pointed out.
A Modified Travelling Wave Dielectrophoretic Method for the Measurement of the Imaginary Part of the Clausius-Mossotti Factor Using Dual Frequency Operation
Authors: Lin Y.-Y. , Lei U. , Lo Y.-J. , Wu M.-S. , Yang P.-C.
Published: September 2014

The imaginary part of the Clausius-Mossotti factor, Ki, is crucial for quantitative particle/cell manipulation and characterization using travelling wave dielectrophoresis (twDEP) and electrorotation (ER). It can be measured rather easily using twDEP instead of using ER, as numerical calculation of the electric field and complicated devices are not needed for evaluating Ki using twDEP. However, the current single frequency twDEP method works only for particles/cells exhibiting negative dielectrophoresis (DEP), which is in general the case when cells are manipulated in physiological strength buffers with conductivity of order of 1S/m. In order to remove such a restriction, a modified twDEP method is proposed using dual frequency operation here capable of measuring the Ki spectra of particles/cells for the entire range of medium conductivity, irrespectively of whether the particles/cells exhibit positive or negative DEP. The success of the modified method relies on the adequate design of force balance between various forces in a designed micro channel, which was discussed in details. The method was validated, and demonstrated by measuring Ki spectra of three human cancer cells for medium conductivity from 0.01 ~ 1.2S/m. Both the method and the cell result find biomedical and other industrial applications.
Mixed Convection Hydromagnetic Flow with Heat Generation, Thermophoresis and Mass Transfer over an Inclined Nonlinear Porous Shrinking Sheet: A Numerical Approach
Authors: Sinha A. , Misra J. C.
Published: September 2014

The paper is devoted to a study of steady hydromagnetic fluid flow with heat and mass transfer over an inclined nonlinear shrinking porous sheet in the presence of thermophoresis and heat generation. The problem is formulated as a non-linear boundary value problem. A numerical method is developed to solve the problem. The surface velocity of the shrinking sheet and the applied transverse magnetic field are considered as power functions of the distance from the origin. The viscosity and thermal conductivity of the fluid are considered temperature-dependent. The viscosity is taken to be an inverse function of temperature, while the thermal conductivity is supposed to vary linearly with temperature. By using suitable transformation, the equations governing the flow, temperature and concentration fields are reduced to a system of coupled non-linear ordinary differential equations, which are solved numerically by developing an appropriate numerical method. Velocity, temperature and concentration profiles as well as the skin-friction coefficient and wall heat transfer are studied with particular emphasis. Their variations with different parameters are investigated. The computed numerical results are presented graphically.
Effect of dietary lipids on circulating adiponectin: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: von Frankenberg Anize D. , Silva Flávia M. , de Almeida Jussara C. , Piccoli Vanessa , do Nascimento Filipe V. , Sost Mônica M. , Leitão Cristiane B. , Remonti Luciana L. R. , Umpierre Daniel , Reis André F. , Canani Luis H. , de Azevedo Mirela J. , Gerchman Fernando
Published: September 2014

Different dietary interventions have been identified as potential modifiers of adiponectin concentrations, and they may be influenced by lipid intake. We identified studies investigating the effect of dietary lipids (type/amount) on adiponectin concentrations in a systematic review with meta-analysis. A literature search was conducted until July 2013 using databases such as Medline, Embase and Scopus (MeSH terms: ‘adiponectin’, ‘dietary lipid’, ‘randomized controlled trials (RCT)’). Inclusion criteria were RCT in adults analysing adiponectin concentrations with modification of dietary lipids. Among the 4930 studies retrieved, fifty-three fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were grouped as follows: (1) total dietary lipid intake; (2) dietary/supplementary n-3 PUFA; (3) conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation; (4) other dietary lipid interventions. Diets with a low fat content in comparison to diets with a high-fat content were not associated with positive changes in adiponectin concentrations (twelve studies; pooled estimate of the difference in means: − 0·04 (95 % CI − 0·82, 0·74) μg/ml). A modest increase in adiponectin concentrations with n-3 PUFA supplementation was observed (thirteen studies; 0·27 (95 % CI 0·07, 0·47) μg/ml). Publication bias was found by using Egger's test (P= 0·01) and funnel plot asymmetry. In contrast, CLA supplementation reduced the circulating concentrations of adiponectin compared with unsaturated fat supplementation (seven studies; − 0·74 (95 % CI − 1·38, − 0·10) μg/ml). However, important sources of heterogeneity were found as revealed by the meta-regression analyses of both n-3 PUFA and CLA supplementation. Results of new RCT would be necessary to confirm these findings.
Liking for fat is associated with sociodemographic, psychological, lifestyle and health characteristics
Authors: Lampuré Aurélie , Deglaire Amélie , Schlich Pascal , Castetbon Katia , Péneau Sandrine , Hercberg Serge , Méjean Caroline
Published: September 2014

Sensory liking influences dietary behaviour, but little is known about specifically associated individual profiles. The aim of the present study was to investigate the associations between liking for fat-and-salt and fat-and-sweet sensations and sociodemographic, economic, psychological, lifestyle and health characteristics in a large sample. Individual characteristics and liking scores were collected by a questionnaire among 37 181 French adults. Liking scores were constructed using a validated preference questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between liking levels and individual characteristics. In both sexes, subjects belonging to low-level occupational categories (OR 1·39, 95 % CI 1·16, 1·67 in men; OR 1·28, 95 % CI 1·16, 1·41 in women), highly uncontrolled eaters (men: OR 2·90, 95 % CI 2·60, 3·23; women: OR 2·73, 95 % CI 2·27, 3·30) and obese subjects (men: OR 1·45, 95 % CI 1·14, 1·84; women: OR 1·47, 95 % CI 1·29, 1·68) were more likely to have a strong liking for the fat-and-sweet sensation, whereas older individuals (men: OR 0·13, 95 % CI 0·10, 0·16; women: OR 0·11, 95 % CI 0·09, 0·14) and highly cognitive restrainers (men: OR 0·52, 95 % CI 0·44, 0·63; women: OR 0·60, 95 % CI 0·55, 0·66) were less likely to have a strong liking. Regarding liking for the fat-and-salt sensation, the same associations were found and specific relationships were also highlighted: current smokers and heavy drinkers were more likely to strongly prefer the fat-and-salt sensation compared with non-smokers and abstainers or irregular alcohol consumers. The relationship between individual characteristics and a liking for fat sensation provides new and original information that may be useful for a better understanding of the associations between sensory liking and individual behaviour.
Development of a food security measurement tool for New Zealand households
Authors: Parnell Winsome R. , Gray Andrew R.
Published: September 2014

To determine the prevalence of household food insecurity in New Zealand (NZ), eight food security statements were included in the 1997 National Nutrition Survey of adults. Rasch model analysis was performed to determine whether each food security statement (addressing a food security attribute) was discrete and could be ranked on a unidimensional scale. The NZ model had marginal ‘household’ reliability (0·60–0·66), good item separation (17·20–17·77) and item infit/outfit values between 0·8 and 1·25. Indices could be ranked by level of severity and represent the experience of household food insecurity in NZ. Categories of food security were assigned and used to predict food choice, and energy and nutrient intakes. Compared with fully secure/almost fully secure households, those that were moderately secure or of low security were less likely to consume the recommended daily servings of fruit and vegetables, and more likely to consume fatty meats. Intake of total fat, saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat, cholesterol, lactose and vitamin B12 increased with lower levels of food security. Intakes of glucose, fructose and vitamin C were highest in the fully secure/almost fully secure category. This unique eight-component food security measurement tool has less respondent burden than the US Core Food Security Measure. The relationships between the level of food insecurity and food choice and nutrient intakes illustrate that the most food-insecure households have less healthy diets. This relatively brief population-specific measurement tool is suitable to monitor population food security status, and is a useful marker of nutritional status.
Effects of hydrolysed casein, intact casein and intact whey protein on energy expenditure and appetite regulation: a randomised, controlled, cross-over study
Authors: Bendtsen Line Q. , Lorenzen Janne K. , Gomes Sisse , Liaset Bjørn , Holst Jens J. , Ritz Christian , Reitelseder Søren , Sjödin Anders , Astrup Arne
Published: September 2014

Casein and whey differ in amino acid composition and in the rate of absorption; however, the absorption rate of casein can be increased to mimic that of whey by exogenous hydrolysis. The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of hydrolysed casein (HC), intact casein (IC) and intact whey (IW) on energy expenditure (EE) and appetite regulation, and thereby to investigate the influence of amino acid composition and the rate of absorption. In the present randomised cross-over study, twenty-four overweight and moderately obese young men and women consumed three isoenergetic dietary treatments that varied in protein source. The study was conducted in a respiration chamber, where EE, substrate oxidation and subjective appetite were measured over 24 h at three independent visits. Moreover, blood and urine samples were collected from the participants. The results showed no differences in 24 h and postprandial EE or appetite regulation. However, lipid oxidation, estimated from the respiratory quotient (RQ), was found to be higher after consumption of IW than after consumption of HC during daytime (P= 0·014) as well as during the time after the breakfast meal (P= 0·008) when the food was provided. Likewise, NEFA concentrations were found to be higher after consumption of IW than after consumption of HC and IC (P< 0·01). However, there was no overall difference in the concentration of insulin or glucagon-like peptide 1. In conclusion, dietary treatments when served as high-protein mixed meals induced similar effects on EE and appetite regulation, except for lipid oxidation, where RQ values suggest that it is higher after consumption of IW than after consumption of HC.
Protein intake and lumbar bone density: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: Hu Tian , Rianon Nahid J. , Nettleton Jennifer A. , Hyder Joseph A. , He Jiang , Steffen Lyn M. , Jacobs David R. , Criqui Michael H. , Bazzano Lydia A.
Published: September 2014

Dietary protein has been shown to increase urinary Ca excretion in randomised controlled trials, and diets high in protein may have detrimental effects on bone health; however, studies examining the relationship between dietary protein and bone health have conflicting results. In the present study, we examined the relationship between dietary protein (total, animal and vegetable protein) and lumbar spine trabecular volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) among participants enrolled in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (n1658). Protein intake was assessed using a FFQ obtained at baseline examination (2000–2). Lumbar spine vBMD was measured using quantitative computed tomography (2002–5), on average 3 years later. Multivariable linear and robust regression techniques were used to examine the associations between dietary protein and vBMD. Sex and race/ethnicity jointly modified the association of dietary protein with vBMD (Pfor interaction = 0·03). Among white women, higher vegetable protein intake was associated with higher vBMD (Pfor trend = 0·03), after adjustment for age, BMI, physical activity, alcohol consumption, current smoking, educational level, hormone therapy use, menopause and additional dietary factors. There were no consistently significant associations for total and animal protein intakes among white women or other sex and racial/ethnic groups. In conclusion, data from the present large, multi-ethnic, population-based study suggest that a higher level of protein intake, when substituted for fat, is not associated with poor bone health. Differences in the relationship between protein source and race/ethnicity of study populations may in part explain the inconsistent findings reported previously.
Judicial Instability and Endogenous Constitutional Change: Lessons from Latin America
Authors: Pérez-Liñán Aníbal , Castagnola Andrea
Published: September 2014

Legal scholars frequently advocate institutional reforms to modernize the judiciary and promote judicial independence. However, constitutional reforms also offer an opportunity for politicians to reshuffle the high courts. The negative consequences of constitutional change for judicial stability are explored using an original database of Supreme Court and Constitutional Tribunal members in eighteen Latin American countries between 1904 and 2010. Because unobserved factors potentially explain constitutional replacement as well as judicial turnover, a two-stage event-history model has been employed. The analysis integrates two literatures, studies of constitution-making and studies of judicial politics. The results show that constitutional change is a significant cause of judicial instability and court manipulation, even after potential endogeneity has been taken into account.
THE BRUSSELS I REGULATION AND ARBITRATION
Authors: Hartley Trevor C
Published: September 2014

This article considers the effect of the Brussels I Regulation on the arbitration process in EU Member States. The Regulation says that it does not apply to arbitration, but it is unclear exactly what is excluded by this provision. The article first considers this question; it then discusses asset-freezing orders and antisuit injunctions in aid of arbitration and the granting of damages for bringing court proceedings before a court which, in the eyes of the court asked to grant the damages, ought not to hear the case. It finally discusses conflicts between judgments and arbitration awards.
Fluctuation-dissipation relations for a plasma-kinetic Langevin equation
Authors: Kanekar A. , Schekochihin A. A. , Dorland W. , Loureiro N. F.
Published: September 2014

A linearised kinetic equation describing electrostatic perturbations of a Maxwellian equilibrium in a weakly collisional plasma forced by a random source is considered. The problem is treated as a kinetic analogue of the Langevin equation and the corresponding fluctuation-dissipation relations are derived. The kinetic fluctuation-dissipation relation reduces to the standard “fluid” one in the regime where the Landau damping rate is small and the system has no real frequency; in this case the simplest possible Landau-fluid closure of the kinetic equation coincides with the standard Langevin equation. Phase mixing of density fluctuations and emergence of fine scales in velocity space is diagnosed as a constant flux of free energy in Hermite space; the fluctuation-dissipation relations for the perturbations of the distribution function are derived, in the form of a universal expression for the Hermite spectrum of the free energy. Finite-collisionality effects are included. This work is aimed at establishing the simplest fluctuation-dissipation relations for a kinetic plasma, clarifying the connection between Landau and Hermite-space formalisms, and setting a benchmark case for a study of phase mixing in turbulent plasmas.
Potential vorticity in magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Webb G. M. , Mace R. L.
Published: September 2014

A version of Noether's second theorem using Lagrange multipliers is used to investigate fluid relabelling symmetries conservation laws in magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). We obtain a new generalized potential vorticity type conservation equation for MHD which takes into account entropy gradients and the J × B force on the plasma due to the current J and magnetic induction B. This new conservation law for MHD is derived by using Noether's second theorem in conjunction with a class of fluid relabelling symmetries in which the symmetry generator for the Lagrange label transformations is non-parallel to the magnetic field induction in Lagrange label space. This is associated with an Abelian Lie pseudo algebra and a foliated phase space in Lagrange label space. It contains as a special case Ertel's theorem in ideal fluid mechanics. An independent derivation shows that the new conservation law is also valid for more general physical situations.
Characterization of laser-driven proton beams from near-critical density targets using copper activation
Authors: Willingale L. , Nagel S. R. , Thomas A. G. R. , Bellei C. , Clarke R. J. , Dangor A. E. , Heathcote R. , Kaluza M. C. , Kamperidis C. , Kneip S. , Krushelnick K. , Lopes N. , Mangles S. P. D. , Nazarov W. , Nilson P. M. , Najmudin Z.
Published: September 2014

Copper activation was used to characterize high-energy proton beam acceleration from near-critical density plasma targets. An enhancement was observed when decreasing the target density, which is indicative for an increased laser-accelerated hot electron density at the rear target-vacuum boundary. This is due to channel formation and collimation of the hot electrons inside the target. Particle-in-cell simulations support the experimental observations and show the correlation between channel depth and longitudinal electric field strength is directly correlated with the proton acceleration.
Revealing the dynamic network structure of the Beck Depression Inventory-II
Authors: Bringmann L. F. , Lemmens L. H. J. M. , Huibers M. J. H. , Borsboom D. , Tuerlinckx F.
Published: September 2014

Background

Structured interviews and questionnaires are important tools to screen for major depressive disorder. Recent research suggests that, in addition to studying the mean level of total scores, researchers should focus on the dynamic relations among depressive symptoms as they unfold over time. Using network analysis, this paper is the first to investigate these patterns of short-term (i.e. session to session) dynamics for a widely used psychological questionnaire for depression – the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II).

Method

With the newly developed vector autoregressive (VAR) multilevel method we estimated the network of symptom dynamics that characterizes the BDI-II, based on repeated administrations of the questionnaire to a group of depressed individuals who participated in a treatment study of an average of 14 weekly assessments. Also the centrality of symptoms and the community structure of the network were examined.

Results

The analysis showed that all BDI-II symptoms are directly or indirectly connected through patterns of temporal influence. In addition, these influences are mutually reinforcing, ‘loss of pleasure’ being the most central item in the network. Community analyses indicated that the dynamic structure of the BDI-II involves two clusters, which is consistent with earlier psychometric analyses.

Conclusion

The network approach expands the range of depression research, making it possible to investigate the dynamic architecture of depression and opening up a whole new range of questions and analyses. Regarding clinical practice, network analyses may be used to indicate which symptoms should be targeted, and in this sense may help in setting up treatment strategies.
Issue expertise in policymaking
Authors: May Peter J. , Koski Chris , Stramp Nicholas
Published: September 2014

In considering issue expertise in policymaking, we unpack differences in the supply and types of expertise with attention to the presumed privileged role of the bureaucracy. Our empirical investigation is based on witness testimonies of congressional hearings for a policy area involving various forms of expertise – critical infrastructure protection policymaking. Three sets of findings stand out. One set substantiates the role of the bureaucracy as an important information conduit while also showing it is not a primary source of issue expertise. A second set shows how differences in issue maturity and salience affect the demand for and supply of expertise. A third set illustrates the influence of a small cadre of hyper-expertise in drawing attention to problems and solutions across different venues. These findings challenge the conventional view of the bureaucracy in policymaking while expanding the understanding of different sources of information and types of issue expertise in policymaking.
The importance of spiritual assessment when caring for older adults
Authors: HARRINGTON ANN
Published: September 2014

There is a growing body of literature documenting the positive effects of both religiousness and spirituality on human health, particularly among those who are ageing or diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. These positive effects provide buffers to life's stressors such as those associated with mental illness, care-giver burden, substance abuse and social disruption resulting from war. An important aspect of health care for individuals of all ages involves completion of a spiritual assessment. This paper explores the concept of spirituality and spiritual assessment, which has many definitions in the literature, and also provides examples of assessment tools from theology, nursing, social work and medicine.
ENGAGEMENT PORTRAITS AND (SOCIO)LINGUISTIC PERFORMANCE
Authors: Mougeon Françoise , Rehner Katherine
Published: September 2014

This study considers, both transversally and longitudinally, advanced second language (L2) learners’ profile portraits, how these correlate with their sociolinguistic and linguistic performance, and how changes in these portraits over time connect to changes in sociolinguistic performance. The results show a strong correlation between high degrees of learner engagement, as captured in the profile portraits, and the three measures of sociolinguistic and linguistic performance. The longitudinal data point to an increase over time both of levels of engagement and of use of informal sociolinguistic variants. By measuring the impact of learners’ evolving engagement on their use of sociolinguistic variants as they progress to a more advanced level of proficiency in their L2, the present study shows that an index of engagement can usefully summarize the multiple effects captured by the learner profile portraits and can shed light on rates of use of certain forms.
Liveness and boundedness analysis of Petri net synthesis
Authors: XIA CHUANLIANG
Published: September 2014

We provide motivation for and then study the synthesis of Petri nets. Synthesis can avoid the state exploration problem by guaranteeing correctness for the Petri net. We propose conditions to be imposed on a synthesis shared pb-type subnet for systems specified in Petri nets that ensure the preservation of the liveness and boundedness structural properties. Specifically, we propose a group of sufficient conditions, or both sufficient and necessary conditions, for liveness preservation and boundedness preservation. Possible applications of this synthesis method are illustrated through an example in the form of a flexible manufacturing system. These results are useful for studying the static and dynamic properties of Petri nets for analysing the properties of large complex systems.
Research on digital predistortion based on adaptive algorithms
Authors: DAI JING , ZHOU RUI
Published: September 2014

In wireless broadband communication systems, the inherent non-linearity of power amplifiers creates spectral growth beyond the signal bandwidth, which interferes with adjacent channels. It also causes distortions within the signal bandwidth. In this paper, we study five digital predistortion algorithms for linearising two different non-linear memory power amplifier models. The simulation results show that the proposed digital predistorter using different algorithms can improve the in-band distortion and out of band spreading in different ways. In particular, the DLMS algorithm with fast convergence can significantly suppress spectral regrowth (by 60dB), effectively compensating for the non-linearity of the power amplifier.
Multi-objective comprehensive evaluation approach to a river health system based on fuzzy entropy
Authors: QIN ZHIBIN , LI HUIMEI , LIU ZHAOHUI
Published: September 2014

The process of river health evaluation is subject to uncertainty and complexity. To address this, we establish a river health evaluation system based on entropy and multi-objective space theory. We apply an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to calculate the weight of the first grade indexes, and then apply the entropy to calculate the weight of the second indexes. In this way, the health measure can be considered in terms of objective data and a subjective classification. The results of the computation show that the whole system provides a good measure of the health. The results express the measurement of the health of the river on different levels and for different aspects, which indicates that the evaluation method is feasible.
Counting Decomposable Univariate Polynomials
Authors: VON ZUR GATHEN JOACHIM
Published: September 2014

A univariate polynomial f over a field is decomposable if it is the composition f = g ○ h of two polynomials g and h whose degree is at least 2. We determine an approximation to the number of decomposables over a finite field. The tame case, where the field characteristic p does not divide the degree n of f, is reasonably well understood, and we obtain exponentially decreasing relative error bounds. The wild case, where p divides n, is more challenging and our error bounds are weaker.
Urban planning after the Black Death: townscape transformation in later medieval England (1350–1530)
Authors: LILLEY KEITH D.
Published: September 2014

This article offers a reconsideration of planning and development in English towns and cities after the Black Death (1348). Conventional historical accounts have stressed the occurrence of urban ‘decay’ in the later fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. Here, instead, a case is made that after 1350 urban planning continued to influence towns and cities in England through the transformation of their townscapes. Using the conceptual approaches of urban morphologists in particular, the article demonstrates that not only did the foundation of new towns and creation of new suburbs characterize the period 1350–1530, but so too did the redevelopment of existing urban landscapes through civic improvements and public works. These reveal evidence for the particular ‘agents of change’ involved in the planning and development process, such as surveyors, officials, patrons and architects, and also the role played by maps and drawn surveys. In this reappraisal, England's urban experiences can be seen to have been closely connected with those instances of urban planning after the Black Death occurring elsewhere in contemporary continental Europe.
Equity criterion for initial rights CO2emissions allocations under emissions trading: cooperation or conflict among nations?
Authors: Liou Je-Liang , Wu Pei-Ing
Published: September 2014

This study constructs comprehensive operational equitable initial rights of emissions allocation models by estimating the total abatement cost based on the criteria of egalitarianism, sovereignty, the ability to pay, polluter pays and various scenarios of the Greenhouse Development Rights (GDRs) framework among groups of countries or individual nations. The analyses provide the potential crux regarding the agreements, cooperation and/or conflict among nations for joining the trading. The results show that the polluter pays principle generates the greatest total abatement cost saving for upper-middle and low-middle income nations, but not for others. Full capacity GDRs apply to China, egalitarianism to India and sovereignty to the United States on an individual basis. The results show that the disagreement and gaps with regard to an equitable initial allocation of rights among groups or individual nations is one of the possible obstructions and hindrances to the promotion and formation of a world trading scheme.