bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Parental Modelling of Eating Behaviours Scale (PARM): links with food intake among children and their mothers
Authors: Palfreyman Zoe , Haycraft Emma , Meyer Caroline
Published: August 2012

This study aimed to develop a self‐report questionnaire to explore parental modelling of eating behaviours and then to use the newly developed measure to investigate associations between parental modelling with healthy and unhealthy food intake in both mothers and their children. Mothers (n = 484) with a child aged between 18 months and 8 years completed the Parental Modelling of Eating Behaviours Scale (PARM), a new, self‐report measure of modelling, as well as a food frequency questionnaire. Principal components analysis of the PARM identified 15 items grouped into three subscales: verbal modelling (modelling through verbal communication); unintentional modelling (UM) (children adopting eating behaviours that parents had not actively modelled); and behavioural consequences (children's eating behaviours directly associated with parental modelling). The PARM subscales were found to be differentially related to food intake. Maternally perceived consequences of behavioural modelling were related to increased fruit and vegetable intake in both mothers and children. UM was related to higher levels of savoury snack intake in both mothers and their children. This study has highlighted three distinct aspects of parental modelling of eating behaviours. The findings suggest that mothers may intentionally model healthy food intake while unintentionally acting as role models for their children's less healthy, snack food intake.
Main Factors Affecting the Consumer Acceptance of Argentinean Fermented Sausages
Authors: López Constanza M. , Bru Elena , Vignolo Graciela M. , Fadda Silvina G.
Published: August 2012

Microbiological, physicochemical and sensory characteristics of most popular Argentinean fermented sausages were evaluated in order to detect drivers of consumer liking. As a first step, a detailed description of instrumental parameters and consumer liking for fermented sausages was carried out. Furthermore, two multivariate mappings were performed: (1) cluster analysis to identify accepted fermented sausages based on overall acceptance and liking of appearance, aroma, taste and texture and (2) standard discriminant analysis to graphically recognize instrumental parameters that better described acceptance clusters. From these results, three fermented sausages groups with different acceptance patterns were segmented; taste and texture emerged as key sensory parameters and water activity, lightness, total protein, molds and enterococci among the physicochemical and microbiological variables were correlated with consumer liking.

Practical Applications

Getting insight into the factors involved in the consumer liking is a relevant task for food scientists who want to establish official standards in terms of sensory quality. From the results obtained herein, instrumental parameters linked to consumer acceptance can be proposed as quality criteria. These guidelines could be profited by manufacturers and technologists to improve fermented sausage production.
Courts and New Democracies: Recent Works
Authors: Ginsburg Tom
Published: August 2012

Recent literature on comparative judicial politics reveals a variety of roles that courts adopt in the process of democratization. These include, very rarely, serving as a trigger for democratization and, more commonly, serving as downstream guarantor for departing autocrats or as downstream consolidator of democracy. In light of these roles, this article reviews six relatively recent books: Courts in Latin America, edited by Helmke and Rios-Figueroa (2011); Judges Beyond Politics in Democracy and Dictatorship: Lessons from Chile, by Hilbink (2007); Cultures of Legality: Judicialization and Political Activism in Latin America, edited by Couso, Huneeus, and Sieder (2011); The Legacies of Law: Long-Run Consequences of Legal Development in South Africa, 1652–2000, by Meierhenrich (2008); Judging Russia: Constitutional Court in Russian Politics 1990–2006, by Trochev (2008); and New Courts in Asia, edited by Harding and Nicholson (2010).
Detection of Brettanomyces spp. in Red Wines Using Real‐Time PCR
Authors: Tofalo Rosanna , Schirone Maria , Corsetti Aldo , Suzzi Giovanna
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  The question if the “Brett character” is a favorable wine attribute is one of the most controversial issues and it is currently addressed by many researches. Actually, the presence of Brettanomyces/Dekkera in wine during barrel aging is often associated to detrimental organoleptic characteristics depending on the release of volatile phenols (for example, 4‐ethylphenol and 4‐ethylguaiacol); for that reason the possibility to rapidly detect the yeast at the early stage of wine production could allow preventive actions to reduce wine spoilage. In this work, 25 and 5 samples from conventional and organic vineyards, respectively, all suspected to be spoiled by Brettanomyces/Dekkera spp., were analyzed using both culture‐dependent and culture‐independent techniques. In particular, a DNA extraction protocol and a real‐time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay to directly detect and quantify B. bruxellensis were optimized. Results showed that B. bruxellensis was present in 22 of 30 samples, ranging from 10 to 104 CFU/mL, lower values being found in organic wines (10 to 102 CFU/mL). Overall, qPCR was proved to be a useful and valuable wine control system, since 12 samples were recorded as positive for yeast presence when analyzed by qPCR and negative in case of plate count analyses.

Practical Application:  Brettanomyces cells were detected using a qPCR method, optimized in this study, which allows to obtain results quickly.
The effects of perineural and intrasynovial anaesthesia of the equine foot on subsequent magnetic resonance images
Authors: Black B. , Cribb N. C. , Nykamp S. G. , Thomason J. J. , Trout D. R.
Published: August 2012

Reasons for performing study

Artefacts caused by regional anaesthesia can influence image interpretation of ultrasonography and nuclear scintigraphy. Perineural and intrasynovial anaesthesia are commonly performed prior to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and the effects on MR images, if any, are unknown.

Objectives

To determine if perineural and intrasynovial anaesthesia of structures in the equine foot cause iatrogenic changes detectable with MRI.

Methods

A baseline MRI examination of both front feet was performed on 15 horses, 2–6 days prior to mepivacaine injection adjacent to the lateral and medial palmar digital nerves, and into the podotrochlear bursa, digital flexor tendon sheath and distal interphalangeal joint of one randomly assigned forelimb. Magnetic resonance imaging was repeated at 24 and 72 h post injection; then qualitative and quantitative assessments of MRI findings were performed.

Results

Magnetic resonance imaging findings associated with the palmar digital nerves, podotrochlear bursa and distal interphalangeal joint at 24 and 72 h after mepivacaine injection did not alter significantly from those at baseline. Compared with baseline, a significant increase in synovial fluid volume of the digital flexor tendon sheath was detected with MRI at 24 and 72 h post injection.

Conclusions

Perineural anaesthesia of the palmar digital nerves and intrasynovial anaesthesia of the podotrochlear or distal interphalangeal joint did not interfere with the interpretation of MR images acquired at 24 or 72 h after injection. However, intrasynovial anaesthesia of the digital flexor tendon sheath caused an iatrogenic increase in synovial fluid, detectable on MR images for at least 72 h.

Potential relevance

Although a definite time frame for resolution of digital flexor tendon sheath distension was not determined, we recommend waiting more than 3 days between intrasynovial anaesthesia of the digital flexor tendon sheath and evaluation with MRI.
Breastfeeding during the first year promotes satiety responsiveness in children aged 18–24 months
Authors: Brown A. , Lee M.
Published: August 2012

What is already known about this subject?

Infants who are formula fed have an increased risk of overweight and obesity compared to breastfed infants.

Individuals who are satiety responsive, matching their intake of energy to need, are more likely to be a healthy weight.

Breastfeeding may promote satiety responsiveness as the infant has greater opportunity to regulate their intake of milk in comparison to being fed with a bottle. However little research has been conducted on this relationship.

What this study adds?

Children who were breastfed during the first year show increased satiety responsiveness during the second year compared to those who were formula fed.

At least six weeks of breastfeeding was needed for infants to be more satiety responsive than infants who were formula fed.

The infant – led nature of breastfeeding may enable infants to develop increased satiety responsiveness compared to formula feeding which is open to greater caregiver manipulation.

Aim

Breastfeeding may reduce childhood risk of overweight. One explanation for this is that the baby‐led nature of breastfeeding promotes appetite regulation as the infant has increased control of the amount consumed. However, the relationship between breastfeeding and later child eating style is largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to examine the association between infant milk feeding and later child appetite responsiveness.

Methods

Two hundred and ninety‐eight mothers reported breastfeeding duration and exclusivity up to 6 months post‐partum when their infant was aged 6–12 months old. In phase 2, mothers completed the satiety responsiveness and food responsiveness scales of the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire and the Child Feeding Questionnaire. Infant's birth and current weight were collected.

Findings

Infants who were breastfed for a longer duration were rated as more satiety responsive (P = 0.001), although no difference was seen for feeding method at birth. Compared to infants who were formula fed from birth, at least 6 weeks of breastfeeding was required for increased satiety responsiveness to emerge. This relationship was independent of the current maternal child feeding style. Food responsivity was unrelated to any breastfeeding behaviour.

Conclusions

Breastfeeding may promote satiety responsiveness potentially through the baby‐led nature of feeding.
S‐Glutathionylation underscores the modulation of the heteromeric Kir4.1–Kir5.1 channel in oxidative stress
Authors: Jin Xin , Yu Lei , Wu Yang , Zhang Shuang , Shi Zhenda , Chen Xianfeng , Yang Yang , Zhang Xiaoli , Jiang Chun
Published: August 2012

Key points

K+ channels are the primary regulators of membrane potentials and cellular excitability, dysfunction of which may occur under several pathophysiological conditions affecting cellular function and stress responses, such as oxidative stress known to play an important role in the inflammation state.

In the study, we find evidence for the modulation of a K+ channel by several oxidants. The underlying mechanism for the oxidant‐mediated channel modulation appears to be mediated by S‐glutathionylation, a newly recognized protein modification process.

A cysteine residue in the second transmembrane domain of the channel protein seems to be the target of S‐glutathionylation.

Abstract  The Kir4.1 channel is expressed in the brainstem, retina and kidney where it acts on K+ transportation and pH‐dependent membrane potential regulation. Its heteromerization with Kir5.1 leads to K+ currents with distinct properties such as single‐channel conductance, rectification, pH sensitivity and phosphorylation modulation. Here we show that Kir5.1 also enables S‐glutathionylation to the heteromeric channel. Expressed in HEK cells, an exposure to the oxidant H2O2 or diamide produced concentration‐dependent inhibitions of the whole‐cell Kir4.1–Kir5.1 currents. In inside‐out patches, currents were inhibited strongly by a combination of diamide/GSH or H2O2/GSH but not by either alone. The currents were also suppressed by GSSG and the thiol oxidants pyridine disulfides (PDSs), suggesting S‐glutathionylation. In contrast, none of the exposures had significant effects on the homomeric Kir4.1 channel. Cys158 in the TM2 helix of Kir5.1 was critical for the S‐glutathionylation, which was accessible to intracellular but not extracellular oxidants. Site‐directed mutagenesis of this residue (C158A or C158T) abolished the Kir4.1–Kir5.1 current modulation by oxidants, and eliminated almost completely the biochemical interaction of Kir5.1 with GSH. In tandem Kir4.1–Kir5.1 constructs, the channel with a single Cys158 was inhibited to the same degree as the wild‐type channel, suggesting that one glutathione moiety is sufficient to block the channel. Consistent with the location of Cys158, GSSG inhibited the channel only when the channel was open, indicating that the channel inhibition was state dependent. The finding that the heteromeric Kir4.1–Kir5.1 channel but not the homomeric Kir4.1 is subject to the S‐glutathionylation thus suggests a novel Kir4.1–Kir5.1 channel modulation mechanism that is likely to occur in oxidative stress.
Wear and Friction of Carbon Nanofiber-Reinforced HDPE Composites
Authors: Xu Songbo , Akchurin Aydar , Liu Tian , Wood Weston , Tangpong X. W. , Akhatov Iskander S. , Zhong Wei-Hong
Published: August 2012

New applications of carbon-based materials have been continuously developed in recent years. Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with silane coatings were added into high density polyethylene (HDPE) to improve the tribological properties of the nanocomposite material. The nanocomposites were fabricated with various weight percentages of carbon nanofibers (0.5 wt.%, 1 wt.% and 3 wt.%) that were treated with different silane coating thicknesses (2.8 nm and 46 nm) through melt-mixing and compressive processing. The wear and friction tests were performed on a pin-on-disc tribometer under phosphate buffered saline lubricated condition. Compared with the neat HDPE, the friction coefficients of the nanocomposites were reduced in all samples, yet only a couple of nanocomposite samples showed lower wear rates. Micro-hardness measurements of the nanocomposites were carried out and CNFs were found to be capable of increasing the material’s micro-hardness. The effects of concentration and silane coating thickness of CNFs on the tribological properties of the resulting nanocomposites were analyzed and the wear mechanisms of the HDPE/CNF nanocomposites were discussed.
Determination of the beam quality index of high‐energy photon beams under nonstandard reference conditions
Authors: Palmans Hugo
Published: August 2012

Purpose:

At some modern radiotherapy machines it is not possible to achieve reference conditions for the measurement of beam quality indices used in dosimetry codes of practice, such as IAEA TRS‐398 and AAPM TG‐51. This work aims at providing self‐consistent and simpler expressions and more accurate fits for a limited range of beams of interest than have been proposed previously for deriving these beam quality indices from measurements.

Methods:

The starting point is a formula proposed by Sauer [Med. Phys.36, 4168–4172 (2009)] for deriving the beam quality index used in IAEA TRS‐398, TPR20,10, from a measurement of the tissue phantom ratio at depths of 20 cm and 10 cm in water for an s × s cm2 (equivalent) square field, TPR20,10(s). First, a self‐consistent version of this formula is established followed by a simpler version by making a linear approximation. A similar approach is proposed to derive the beam quality index used in AAPM TG‐51, %dd(10)X, from a measurement of PDD10(s), the percentage depth dose at 10 cm for a square field with size s. All models were fitted to subsets of relevant data from BJR supplement 25.

Results:

The linear models forTPR20,10(s) and exponential models for PDD10(s) as a function of the (equivalent) square field size can reproduce the beam quality within 0.3% and beam quality correction factors within 0.05% for square field sizes ranging from 4 cm to 12 cm and nominal photon energies from 4 MV to 12 MV. For higher energy beams the errors are only slightly worse but for %dd(10)X, an additional uncertainty component has to be considered for the electron contamination correction.

Conclusions:

The models proposed here can be used in practical recommendations for the dosimetry of small and nonstandard fields.
Hedgehog-Stimulated Chemotaxis Is Mediated by Smoothened Located Outside the Primary Cilium
Authors: Bijlsma Maarten F. , Damhofer Helene , Roelink Henk
Published: August 2012

Hedgehog stimulates a chemotactic or transcriptional response depending on the intracellular trafficking of the co-receptor Smoothened.
Synchronize Your Watches
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: August 2012

Diurnal metabolic changes in circadian clock neurons are coupled to changes in potassium channel activity.
Toxicity Mechanisms of Amphotericin B and Its Neutralization by Conjugation with Arabinogalactan
Authors: Kagan Sarah , Ickowicz Diana , Shmuel Miriam , Altschuler Yoram , Sionov Edward , Pitusi Miriam , Weiss Aryeh , Farber Shimon , Domb Abraham J. , Polacheck Itzhack
Published: August 2012

Amphotericin B (AMB) is an effective antifungal agent. However, its therapeutic use is hampered by its toxicity, mainly due to channel formation across kidney cell membranes and the disruption of postendocytic trafficking. We previously described a safe injectable AMB-arabinogalactan (AG) conjugate with neutralized toxicity. Here we studied the mechanism of the toxicity of free AMB and its neutralization by conjugation with AG. AMB treatment of a kidney cell line modulated the trafficking of three receptors (C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 [CXCR4], M1 receptor, and human transferrin receptor [hTfnR]) due to an increase in endosomal pH. Similar data were also obtained in yeast but with an increase in vacuolar pH and the perturbation of Hxt2-green fluorescent protein (GFP) trafficking. The conjugation of AMB with AG neutralized all elements of the toxic activity of AMB in mammalian but not in fungal cells. Based on these results, we provide an explanation of how the conjugation of AMB with AG neutralizes its toxicity in mammalian cells and add to the knowledge of the mechanism of action of free AMB in both fungal and mammalian cells.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Piperacillin at Two Dose Levels: Influence of Nonlinear Pharmacokinetics on the Pharmacodynamic Profile
Authors: Landersdorfer Cornelia B. , Bulitta Jurgen B. , Kirkpatrick Carl M. J. , Kinzig Martina , Holzgrabe Ulrike , Drusano George L. , Stephan Ulrich , Sörgel Fritz
Published: August 2012

Piperacillin in combination with tazobactam is one of the most commonly used intravenous antibiotics. There is evidence for a possible saturable elimination of piperacillin. Therefore, the saturable elimination and its impact on the choice of optimal dosage regimens were quantified. In a randomized crossover study, 10 healthy volunteers received 1,500 mg and 3,000 mg of piperacillin as 5-min intravenous infusion. Population pharmacokinetics based on plasma and urine data were determined utilizing NONMEM and S-ADAPT. Probabilities of target attainment (PTAs) were compared for different models and dosage regimens, based on the target time of the non-protein-bound concentration above the MIC of at least 50% of the dosing interval. Total clearance of piperacillin was 18% (geometric mean ratio, 90% confidence interval, 11 to 24%) lower (
P
< 0.01), and renal clearance was 24% (9 to 37%) lower (
P
= 0.02) at the high compared to the low dose. The final model included first-order nonrenal elimination and parallel first-order and mixed-order renal elimination. Nonrenal clearance was 5.44 liter/h (coefficient of variation, 18%), first-order renal clearance was 4.42 liter/h (47%), and the maximum elimination rate of mixed-order renal elimination was 219 mg/h (84%), with a Michaelis-Menten constant of 36.1 mg/liter (112%). Compared to models with saturable elimination, a linear model predicted up to 10% lower population PTAs for high-dose short-term infusions (6 g every 8 h) and up to 4% higher population PTAs for low-dose continuous infusions (6 g/day). While renal elimination of piperacillin was saturable at therapeutic concentrations, the extent of saturation of nonrenal clearance was small. The influence of saturable elimination on PTAs for clinically relevant dosage regimens was relatively small.
Antibiotic Resistance and Substrate Profiles of the Class A Carbapenemase KPC-6
Authors: Lamoureaux Toni L. , Frase Hilary , Antunes Nuno T. , Vakulenko Sergei B.
Published: August 2012

The class A carbapenemase KPC-6 produces resistance to a broad range of β-lactam antibiotics. This enzyme hydrolyzes penicillins, the monobactam aztreonam, and carbapenems with similar catalytic efficiencies, ranging from 10
5
to 10
6
M
−1
s
−1
. The catalytic efficiencies of KPC-6 against cephems vary to a greater extent, ranging from 10
3
M
−1
s
−1
for the cephamycin cefoxitin and the extended-spectrum cephalosporin ceftazidime to 10
5
to 10
6
M
−1
s
−1
for the narrow-spectrum and some of the extended-spectrum cephalosporins.
Determinants of Intrinsic Aminoglycoside Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Krahn Thomas , Gilmour Christie , Tilak Justin , Fraud Sebastien , Kerr Nicholas , Lau Calvin Ho-Fung , Poole Keith
Published: August 2012

Screening of a transposon insertion mutant library of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
for increased susceptibility to paromomycin identified a number of genes whose disruption enhanced susceptibility of this organism to multiple aminoglycosides, including tobramycin, amikacin, and gentamicin. These included genes associated with lipid biosynthesis or metabolism (
lptA
,
faoA
), phosphate uptake (
pstB
), and two-component regulators (
amgRS
, PA2797-PA2798) and a gene of unknown function (PA0392). Deletion mutants lacking these showed enhanced panaminoglycoside susceptibility that was reversed by the cloned genes, confirming their contribution to intrinsic panaminoglycoside resistance. None of these mutants showed increased aminoglycoside permeation of the cell envelope, indicating that increased susceptibility was not related to enhanced aminoglycoside uptake owing to a reduced envelope barrier function. Several mutants (
pstB
,
faoA
, PA0392,
amgR
) did, however, show increased cytoplasmic membrane depolarization relative to wild type following gentamicin exposure, consistent with the membranes of these mutants being more prone to perturbation, likely by gentamicin-generated mistranslated polypeptides. Mutants lacking any two of these resistance genes in various combinations invariably showed increased aminoglycoside susceptibility relative to single-deletion mutants, confirming their independent contribution to resistance and highlighting the complexity of the intrinsic aminoglycoside resistome in
P. aeruginosa
. Deletion of these genes also compromised the high-level panaminoglycoside resistance of clinical isolates, emphasizing their important contribution to acquired resistance.
Anaplasma phagocytophilum Outer Membrane Protein A Interacts with Sialylated Glycoproteins To Promote Infection of Mammalian Host Cells
Authors: Ojogun Nore , Kahlon Amandeep , Ragland Stephanie A. , Troese Matthew J. , Mastronunzio Juliana E. , Walker Naomi J. , VieBrock Lauren , Thomas Rachael J. , Borjesson Dori L. , Fikrig Erol , Carlyon Jason A.
Published: August 2012

Anaplasma phagocytophilum
is the tick-transmitted obligate intracellular bacterium that causes human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA).
A. phagocytophilum
binding to sialyl Lewis x (sLe
x
) and other sialylated glycans that decorate P selectin glycoprotein 1 (PSGL-1) and other glycoproteins is critical for infection of mammalian host cells. Here, we demonstrate the importance of
A. phagocytophilum
outer membrane protein A (OmpA) APH_0338 in infection of mammalian host cells. OmpA is transcriptionally induced during transmission feeding of
A. phagocytophilum
-infected ticks on mice and is upregulated during invasion of HL-60 cells. OmpA is presented on the pathogen's surface. Sera from HGA patients and experimentally infected mice recognize recombinant OmpA. Pretreatment of
A. phagocytophilum
organisms with OmpA antiserum reduces their abilities to infect HL-60 cells. The OmpA N-terminal region is predicted to contain the protein's extracellular domain. Glutathione
S
-transferase (GST)-tagged versions of OmpA and OmpA amino acids 19 to 74 (OmpA
19-74
) but not OmpA
75-205
bind to, and competitively inhibit
A. phagocytophilum
infection of, host cells. Pretreatment of host cells with sialidase or trypsin reduces or nearly eliminates, respectively, GST-OmpA adhesion. Therefore, OmpA interacts with sialylated glycoproteins. This study identifies the first
A. phagocytophilum
adhesin-receptor pair and delineates the region of OmpA that is critical for infection.
Characterization of green clay concretions from the Tonggao Formation, South China: Mineralogy, petrogenesis and paleoenvironmental implications1National Natural Science Foundation of China 40825006.
Authors: Izawa Matthew R.M. , Flemming Roberta L. , Zhan Renbin , Jin Jisuo
Published: August 2012

Enigmatic millimetre-scale micro-concretions with pseudocrystal faces and dominated by green clay minerals occur in unfossiliferous siliciclastic mudstone of the Lower Ordovician (479.0–466.0 Ma) Tonggao Formation, South China. The fossil-free mudstone unit is associated with local biodiversity decline. The mineralogy and mineral chemistry of these concretions were unknown previously, and this study comprises a preliminary investigation. The concretions are dominated by Fe-rich phyllosilicate minerals including glauconite and clinochlore, with minor quartz and traces of magnetite. The textural relations between the micro-concretions and the surrounding matrix, and the preservation of original mudstone laminations within the concretions, point to an origin during early diagenesis. The mineralogy and chemistry of these concretions are consistent with an origin in a restricted, hypersaline, relatively deep-water environment, in accordance with stratigraphical and paleonotological data. These micro-concretions provide clues for a stressed environment with poor water circulation and anomalies of salinity and oxygen.
Reassessment of the problematic Burgess Shale sponge Takakkawia lineata Walcott, 1920
Authors: Botting Joseph P.
Published: August 2012

The monotypic Burgess Shale sponge genus Takakkawia Walcott, 1920, has been previously assigned to the Protomonaxonida, despite showing several unique features. A reassessment of the genus, including restudy of previously described material and the addition of new material that includes partially disarticulated specimens, has allowed a greatly modified understanding of its structure. The sponge possessed four primary columns (each divided into two) of highly modified spicules, with an outer organic layer extended into a unique, complex flange that shows a fine microstructure. The flanges within one column overlap to give the impression of radial fins, and each column is surmounted by an enlarged marginal spicule of similar morphology. Multi-rayed spicules are present both within the primary column architecture and as marginalia lining the osculum. The architecture most closely resembles Metaxyspongia Wu et al., 2005, which is placed into the Takakkawiidae. This restudy supports an interpretation of the family as a very early-branching sponge lineage, diverging within the early stem group of Silicea or prior to the separation of Calcarea and Silicea.
DHA supplementation enhances high-frequency, stimulation-induced synaptic transmission in mouse hippocampus
Authors: Connor Steve , Tenorio Gustavo , Clandinin Michael Tom , Sauvé Yves
Published: August 2012

While some studies on dietary supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) have reported a beneficial effect on memory as a function of age, others have failed to find any effect. To clarify this issue, we sought to determine whether supplementing mice with a DHA-enriched diet could alter the ability of synapses to undergo activity-dependent changes in the hippocampus, a brain structure involved in forming new spatial memories. We found that DHA was increased by 29% ± 5% (mean ± SE) in the hippocampus for the supplemented (DHA+) versus nonsupplemented (control) group (n = 5 mice per group; p < 0.05). Such DHA elevation was associated with enhanced synaptic transmission (p < 0.05) as assessed by application of a high-frequency electrical stimulation protocol (100 Hz stimulation, which induced transient (<2 h) increases in synaptic strength) to slices from DHA+ (n = 4 mice) hippocampi when compared with controls (n = 4 mice). Increased synaptic responses were evident 60 min poststimulation. These results suggest that dietary DHA supplementation facilitates synaptic plasticity following brief high-frequency stimulation. This increase in synaptic transmission might provide a physiological correlation for the improved spatial learning and memory observed following DHA supplementation.
Underestimating a serving size may lead to increased food consumption when using Canada’s Food Guide
Authors: Abramovitch Sharona L. , Reddigan Jacinta I. , Hamadeh Mazen J. , Jamnik Veronica K. , Rowan Chip P. , Kuk Jennifer L.
Published: August 2012

It is unclear whether Canadians accurately estimate serving sizes and the number of servings in their diet as intended by Canada’s Food Guide (CFG). The objective of this study was to determine if participants can accurately quantify the size of 1 serving and the number of servings consumed per day. White, Black, South Asian, and East Asian adults (n = 145) estimated the quantity of food that constituted 1 CFG serving, and used CFG to estimate the number of servings that they consumed from their 24-h dietary recall. Participants estimated 1 serving size of vegetables and fruit (+43%) and grains (+55%) to be larger than CFG serving sizes (p ≤ 0.05); meat alternatives (–33%) and cheese (–31%) to be smaller than a CFG serving size (p ≤ 0.05); and chicken, carrots, and milk servings accurately (p > 0.05). Serving size estimates were positively correlated with the amount of food participants regularly consumed at 1 meal (p < 0.001). From their food records, all ethnicities estimated that they consumed fewer servings of vegetables and fruit (–15%), grains (–28%), and meat and alternatives (–14%) than they actually consumed, and more servings of milk and alternatives (+26%, p ≤ 0.05) than they actually consumed. Consequently, 68% of participants believed they needed to increase consumption by greater than 200 kcal to meet CFG recommendations. In conclusion, estimating serving sizes to be larger than what is defined by CFG may inadvertently lead to estimating that fewer servings were consumed and overeating if Canadians follow CFG recommendations without guidance. Thus, revision to CFG or greater public education regarding the dietary guidelines is warranted.
Beverage patterns among Canadian children and relationship to overweight and obesity
Authors: Danyliw Adrienne D. , Vatanparast Hassanali , Nikpartow Nooshin , Whiting Susan J.
Published: August 2012

Sweetened beverage intake has risen in past decades, along with a rise in prevalence of overweight and obesity among children. Our objective was to examine the relationship between beverage intake patterns and overweight and obesity among Canadian children. Beverage intake patterns were identified by cluster analysis of data from the cross-sectional Canadian Community Health Survey 2.2. Intake data were obtained from a single 24-hour recall, height and weight were measured, and sociodemographic data were obtained via interview. Data on children and adolescents aged 2–18 years who met inclusion criteria (n = 10 038) were grouped into the following categories: 2–5 years (male and female), 6–11 years (female), 6–11 years (male), 12–18 years (female), and 12–18 years (male). χ2 test was used to compare rates of overweight and obesity across clusters. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between overweight and obesity and beverage intake patterns, adjusting for potential confounders. Clustering resulted in distinct groups of who drank mostly fruit drinks, soft drinks, 100% juice, milk, high-fat milk, or low-volume and varied beverages (termed “moderate”). Boys aged 6–11 years whose beverage pattern was characterized by soft drink intake (553 ± 29 g) had increased odds of overweight–obesity (odds ratio 2.3, 95% confidence interval 1.2–4.1) compared with a “moderate” beverage pattern (23 ± 4 g soft drink). No significant relationship emerged between beverage pattern and overweight and obesity among other age–sex groups. Using national cross-sectional dietary intake data, Canadian children do not show a beverage–weight association except among young boys who drink mostly soft drinks, and thus may be at increased risk for overweight or obesity.
Using digital photogrammetry for pipe-works progress tracking1This paper is one of a selection of papers in this Special Issue on Construction Engineering and Management.
Authors: Ahmed Mahmoud , Haas C.T. , Haas Ralph
Published: August 2012

Pipe-works are among the most complicated items to be tracked in the course of monitoring construction project progress. Traditionally, the tracking of pipe-works progress is conducted either manually or using laser scanning technology. While laser scanning is a 3D imaging technique, and commercial software exists to construct 3D CAD models of piping based on such images, it suffers from portability, purchase cost, and other disadvantages. This paper describes digital photogrammetry technology as an alternative for pipe-works reconstruction and as a cost effective tracking tool. For validation, data was collected using a handheld digital camera to acquire images inside a new building under construction. Progress of the pipe-work networks of different types and sizes in the new building was monitored during the construction phases. In addition to the known accuracy and robustness of photogrammetry, it was found that the use of digital photogrammetry provided a practical and low-cost approach.
Estimating productivity of earthmoving operations using spatial technologies1This paper is one of a selection of papers in this Special Issue on Construction Engineering and Management.
Authors: Montaser Ali , Bakry Ibrahim , Alshibani Adel , Moselhi Osama
Published: August 2012

This paper presents an automated method for estimating productivity of earthmoving operations in near-real-time. The developed method utilizes Global Positioning System (GPS) and Google Earth to extract the data needed to perform the estimation process. A GPS device is mounted on a hauling unit to capture the spatial data along designated hauling roads for the project. The variations in the captured cycle times were used to model the uncertainty associated with the operation involved. This was carried out by automated classification, data fitting, and computer simulation. The automated classification is applied through a spreadsheet application that classifies GPS data and identifies, accordingly, durations of different activities in each cycle using spatial coordinates and directions captured by GPS and recorded on its receiver. The data fitting was carried out using commercially available software to generate the probability distribution functions used in the simulation software “Extend V.6”. The simulation was utilized to balance the production of an excavator with that of the hauling units. A spreadsheet application was developed to perform the calculations. An example of an actual project was analyzed to demonstrate the use of the developed method and illustrates its essential features. The analyzed case study demonstrates how the proposed method can assist project managers in taking corrective actions based on the near-real-time actual data captured and processed to estimate productivity of the operations involved.
Dynamics of workforce skill evolution in construction projects1This paper is one of a selection of papers in this Special Issue on Construction Engineering and Management.
Authors: Alvanchi Amin , Lee SangHyun , AbouRizk Simaan M.
Published: August 2012

Construction projects are usually labour intensive, and human resource (HR) issues contribute significantly to a project’s final costs. From this perspective, a tool that can help construction managers reduce their HR costs can potentially generate improvement in the project cost. In this paper we propose a simulation-based approach that sheds light on the dynamics of workforce skill evolution as the project progresses, thereby assisting construction managers in adjusting their HR policies. The proposed approach uses a system dynamics (SD) simulation model that dynamically tracks the effects of alternative HR policies. After the development and validation of the SD model, the SD model is extended to capture operational details and their interaction with workforce skill evolution, adopting a hybrid SD and discrete event simulation (DES). The hybrid model has been applied to an experimental case of structural steel fabrication projects, in which we demonstrate that there is a considerable room for cost-saving in HR. The hybrid modeling approach introduced in this paper can be employed by construction managers for possible improvements in HR management, as well as researchers for an in-depth understanding of the dynamics in workforce skill evolution.
KERNEL ENTROPY-BASED UNSUPERVISED SPECTRAL FEATURE SELECTION
Authors: ZHANG ZHIHONG , HANCOCK EDWIN R.
Published: August 2012

Most existing feature selection methods focus on ranking individual features based on a utility criterion, and select the optimal feature set in a greedy manner. However, the feature combinations found in this way do not give optimal classification performance, since they neglect the correlations among features. In an attempt to overcome this problem, we develop a novel feature selection technique using the spectral data transformation and by using ℓ1-norm regularized models for subset selection. Specifically, we propose a new two-step spectral regression technique for unsupervised feature selection. In the first step, we use kernel entropy component analysis (kECA) to transform the data into a lower-dimensional space so as to improve class separation. Second, we use ℓ1-norm regularization to select the features that best align with the data embedding resulting from kECA. The advantage of kECA is that dimensionality reducing data transformation maximally preserves entropy estimates for the input data whilst also best preserving the cluster structure of the data. Using ℓ1-norm regularization, we cast feature discriminant analysis into a regression framework which accommodates the correlations among features. As a result, we can evaluate joint feature combinations, rather than being confined to consider them individually. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our feature selection method on a number of standard face datasets.
MIXED FINITE ELEMENT METHODS: IMPLEMENTATION WITH ONE UNKNOWN PER ELEMENT, LOCAL FLUX EXPRESSIONS, POSITIVITY, POLYGONAL MESHES, AND RELATIONS TO OTHER METHODS
Authors: VOHRALÍK MARTIN , WOHLMUTH BARBARA I.
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we study the mixed finite element method for linear diffusion problems. We focus on the lowest-order Raviart–Thomas case. For simplicial meshes, we propose several new approaches to reduce the original indefinite saddle point systems for the flux and potential unknowns to (positive definite) systems for one potential unknown per element. Our construction principle is closely related to that of the so-called multi-point flux-approximation method and leads to local flux expressions. We present a set of numerical examples illustrating the influence of the elimination process on the structure and on the condition number of the reduced matrix. We also discuss different versions of the discrete maximum principle in the lowest-order Raviart–Thomas method. Finally, we recall mixed finite element methods on general polygonal meshes and show that they are a special type of the mimetic finite difference, mixed finite volume, and hybrid finite volume family.
NUMERICAL GRADIENT FLOW DISCRETIZATION OF VISCOUS THIN FILMS ON CURVED GEOMETRIES
Authors: RUMPF MARTIN , VANTZOS ORESTIS
Published: August 2012

The evolution of a viscous thin film on a curved geometry is numerically approximated based on the natural time discretization of the underlying gradient flow. This discretization leads to a variational problem to be solved at each time step, which reflects the balance between the decay of the free (gravitational and surface) energy and the viscous dissipation. Both dissipation and energy are derived from a lubrication approximation for a small ratio between the characteristic film height and the characteristic length scale of the surface. The dissipation is formulated in terms of a corresponding flux field, whereas the energy primarily depends on the fluid volume per unit surface, which is a conserved quantity. These two degrees of freedom are coupled by the underlying transport equation. Hence, one is naturally led to a PDE-constrained optimization problem, where the variational time stepping problem has to be solved under the constraint described by the transport equation. For the space discretization a discrete exterior calculus approach is investigated. Various applications demonstrate the qualitative and quantitative behavior of one- and two-dimensional thin films on curved geometries.
BIOMECHANICAL EVALUATION OF ENDODONTIC POST-RESTORED TEETH — FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS
Authors: SU KUO-CHIH , CHANG CHIH-HAN , CHUANG SHU-FEN , NG E. Y. K.
Published: August 2012

Endodontically treated teeth are usually weak and need prosthodontic restorations. The selection and design of endodontic posts are associated with the biomechanical behavior of teeth. This study analyzed the stress in endodontically treated teeth using the finite element method. The model of a restored tooth consists of the post, core, crown, dentin, periodontal ligament, cortical bone, cancellous bone, and gingiva. The post is given various design parameters: three diameters (1.3, 1.8, and 2.3 mm), four lengths (9.7, 12.7, 15.7, and 18.7 mm), three shapes (cylindrical, tapered, and two-step cylindrical), and five materials (gold alloy, stainless steel, titanium, carbon fiber, and glass fiber). Static loads of 100 N are applied in the vertical, horizontal, and oblique directions on the incisal edge, and the generated von Mises stress is calculated. Results show that increases in the post diameter and elastic modulus decrease the post stress. The dentin stress slightly decreases with increasing post stress. The loading mode greatly affects the peak dentin stress magnitude (horizontal force (37 MPa) > oblique force (28 MPa) > vertical force (9 MPa)) and location. Furthermore, the horizontal force induces harmful bending of the tooth structure.
TORSION POINTS ON ELLIPTIC CURVES WITH COMPLEX MULTIPLICATION (WITH AN APPENDIX BY ALEX RICE)
Authors: CLARK PETE L. , COOK BRIAN , STANKEWICZ JAMES
Published: August 2012

We present seven theorems on the structure of prime order torsion points on CM elliptic curves defined over number fields. The first three results refine bounds of Silverberg and Prasad–Yogananda by taking into account the class number of the CM order and the splitting of the prime in the CM field. In many cases we can show that our refined bounds are optimal or asymptotically optimal. We also derive asymptotic upper and lower bounds on the least degree of a CM-point on X1(N). Upon comparison to bounds for the least degree for which there exist infinitely many rational points on X1(N), we deduce that, for sufficiently large N, X1(N) will have a rational CM point of degree smaller than the degrees of at least all but finitely many non-CM points.
Resilient and adaptive performance logic
Authors: Liu Bao , Chen Xuemei , Teshome Fiona
Published: August 2012

As VLSI technology continues scaling, increasingly significant parametric variations and increasingly prevalent defects present unprecedented challenges to VLSI design at nanometer scale. Specifically, performance variability has hindered performance scaling, while soft errors become an emerging problem for logic computation at recent technology nodes. In this article, we leverage the existing Totally Self-Checking (TSC)/Strongly Fault-Secure (SFS) logic design techniques, and propose Resilient and Adaptive Performance (RAP) logic for maximum adaptive performance and soft error resilience in nanoscale computing. RAP logic clears all timing errors in the absence of external soft errors, albeit at a higher area/power cost compared with Razor logic. Our experimental results further show that dual-rail static (Domino) RAP logic outperforms alternative Delay-Insensitive (DI) code-based static (Domino) RAP logic with less area, higher performance, and lower power consumption for the large test cases, and achieves an average of 2.29(2.41)× performance boost, 2.12(1.91)× layout area, and 2.38(2.34)× power consumption compared with the traditional minimum area static logic based on the Nangate 45-nm open cell library.
ITiCSE 2012
Authors: Walker Henry M.
Published: August 2012

Each SIGCSE conference provides a wonderful opportunity for networking. At ITiCSE 2012, conference co-chairs, Tami Lapidot and Judith Gal-Ezer, with their local committee, worked extremely hard to handle logistics and foster a sense of community. Most attendees stayed at one of three hotels, and shuttles brought everyone together during the trips between the hotels and the conference venue as well as during the conference.
Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows and Simultaneous Delivery and Pick‐Up Service Based on MCPSO
Authors: Gan Xiaobing , Wang Yan , Li Shuhai , Niu Ben
Published: August 2012

This paper considers two additional factors of the widely researched vehicle routing problem with time windows (VRPTW). The two factors, which are very common characteristics in realworld, are uncertain number of vehicles and simultaneous delivery and pick‐up service. Using minimization of the total transport costs as the objective of the extension VRPTW, a mathematic model is constructed. To solve the problem, an efficient multiswarm cooperative particle swarm optimization (MCPSO) algorithm is applied. And a new encoding method is proposed for the extension VRPTW. Finally, comparing with genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, the MCPSO algorithm performs best for solving this problem.
Characterization of Myelomonocytoid Progenitor Cells with Mesenchymal Differentiation Potential Obtained by Outgrowth from Pancreas Explants
Authors: Roehrich Marc-Estienne , Vassalli Giuseppe
Published: August 2012

Progenitor cells can be obtained by outgrowth from tissue explants during primary ex vivo tissue culture. We have isolated and characterized cells outgrown from neonatal mouse pancreatic explants. A relatively uniform population of cells showing a distinctive morphology emerged over time in culture. This population expressed monocyte/macrophage and hematopoietic markers (CD11b+and CD45+), and some stromal-related markers (CD44+and CD29+), but not mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-defining markers (CD90−and CD105−) nor endothelial (CD31−) or stem cell-associated markers (CD133−and stem cell antigen-1; Sca-1−). Cells could be maintained in culture as a plastic-adherent monolayer in culture medium (MesenCult MSC) for more than 1 year. Cells spontaneously formed sphere clusters “pancreatospheres” which, however, were nonclonal. When cultured in appropriate media, cells differentiated into multiple mesenchymal lineages (fat, cartilage, and bone). Positive dithizone staining suggested that a subset of cells differentiated into insulin-producing cells. However, further studies are needed to characterize the endocrine potential of these cells. These findings indicate that a myelomonocytoid population from pancreatic explant outgrowths has mesenchymal differentiation potential. These results are in line with recent data onmonocyte-derivedmesenchymal progenitors (MOMPs).