bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An implicit algorithm to verify creep and TRIP behavior of steel using uniaxial experiments
Authors: Wolff M. , Böhm M. , Bökenheide S. , Lammers D. , Linke T.
Published: January 2012

Creep is a complex material feature occurring in mechanical structures under moderate stresses and relatively high temperatures. Transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP) is a macroscopic phenomenon of steel behavior. If phase transformations occur under deviatoric stress, a permanent inelastic strain is obtained even if the yield stress is not reached. Thus, creep and TRIP do not have a yield stress like plasticity and visco‐plasticity. Sometimes, during heat treatment of steel, creep and TRIP appear together. In order to determine creep or TRIP behavior it is necessary to verify concrete material laws and to determine corresponding material parameters. For this reason, often uniaxial experiments with small probes are performed in special devices. It is the main purpose of this study, to develop a procedure for the verification of possible laws for creep and TRIP and for determining material parameters, using experimental data. Therefore, an implicit algorithm in two variants will be developed: strain‐driven and stress‐driven. These algorithms can also be applied to simulations of (spatially homogenous) uniaxial experiments. Based on these algorithms, an optimization scheme will be developed for finding material parameters which realize a best approximation. Finally, the developed procedure will be applied for the investigation of creep and TRIP during heating of the bearing steel 100Cr6 (SAE 52100).
The measurement of urinary Δ1‐piperideine‐6‐carboxylate, the alter ego of α‐aminoadipic semialdehyde, in Antiquitin deficiency
Authors: Struys Eduard A. , Bok Levinus A. , Emal Dina , Houterman Saskia , Willemsen Michel A. , Jakobs Cornelis
Published: January 2012

The assessment of urinary α‐aminoadipic semialdehyde (α‐AASA) has become the diagnostic laboratory test for pyridoxine dependent seizures (PDS). α‐AASA is in spontaneous equilibrium with its cyclic form Δ1‐piperideine‐6‐carboxylate (P6C); a molecule with a heterocyclic ring structure. Ongoing diagnostic screening and monitoring revealed that in some individuals with milder ALDH7A1 variants, and patients co‐treated with a lysine restricted diet, α‐AASA was only modestly increased. This prompted us to investigate the diagnostic power and added value of the assessment of urinary P6C compared to α‐AASA. Urine samples were diluted to a creatinine content of 0.1 mmol/L, followed by the addition of 0.01 nmol [2H9]pipecolic acid as internal standard (IS) and 5 μL was injected onto a Waters C18 T3 HPLC column. Chromatography was performed using water/methanol 97/3 (v/v) including 0.03 % formic acid by volume with a flow rate of 150 μL/min and detection was accomplished in the multiple reaction monitoring mode: P6C m/z 128.1 > 82.1; [2H9]pipecolic acid m/z 139.1 > 93.1. Due to the dualistic nature of α‐AASA/P6C, and the lack of a proper internal standard, the method is semi quantitative. The intra‐assay CVs (n = 10) for two urine samples of proven PDS patients with only modest P6C increases were 4.7% and 8.1%, whereas their inter‐assay CVs (n = 10) were 16 and 18% respectively. In all 40 urine samples from 35 individuals with proven PDS, we detected increased levels of P6C. Therefore, we conclude that the diagnostic power of the assessments of urinary P6C and α‐AASA is comparable.
Ionic Liquid‐Assisted Solubilization for Improved Enzymatic Esterification of Phenolic Acids
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Guo Zheng , Xu Xuebing
Published: January 2012

Lipophilic derivatives of phenolic acids could greatly extend their applications in the lipophilic bio‐environment and food processing, therefore, developing an efficient lipophilization reaction system constitutes an interesting topic of biocatalysis. Low solubility of phenolic acids in most enzyme‐benign solvents represents the main reason for the inefficiency of enzymatic production of lipophilic phenolic derivatives. This work reports a novel approach to improve Candida antartica lipase B (Novozym 435) catalyzed lipophilization of phenolic acids by means of ionic liquids (IL), trioctylmethylammonium trifluoroacetate (tOMA.TFA) assisted solubilization of the substrate. In this approach, the IL plays two major roles, namely, to dissolve phenolic acids at high concentration so as to create a homogeneous system with another substrate—1‐octanol, and to be benign to the enzyme to keep the biocatalyst active; which is proved itself to be a correct strategy as improved conversion and volumetric productivity are obtained. The results showed that dosage of IL (denoted as the volume ratio of 1‐octanol/tOMA.TFA), concentration of dihydrocaffeic acid (DHCA) and temperature are the key parameters governing the reaction efficiency. A maximum conversion of DHCA was achieved at the ratio of 1‐octanol/tOMA.TFA 12:1 (v/v) (1‐octanol/DHCA, 38:1 (mol/mol)). A temperature of 70 °C was correct to obtain optimal conversion of DHCA. Even though the conversion of DHCA was higher at lower concentrations of DHCA, the overall volumetric productivity (reaction rate) was much higher when a high concentration of DHCA (1.6 M) was applied, due to IL‐assisted solubilization of DHCA. Remarkable enhancement of the conversions of ferulic and caffeic acids were achieved, when the same reaction approach (tOMA.TFA assisted solubilization) was applied to these two phenolic acids, indicating the general applicability of this novel approach.
Changing pattern of femoral fractures in osteogenesis imperfecta with prolonged use of bisphosphonates
Authors: Nicolaou N. , Agrawal Y. , Padman M. , Fernandes J. A. , Bell M. J.
Published: January 2012

Purpose

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) has been treated with bisphosphonates for many years, with some clear clinical benefits. In adults, there are reports of a new pattern of atraumatic subtrochanteric fractures with bisphosphonate treatment. This study assesses if bisphosphonate treatment leads to an altered pattern of femoral fractures.

Methods

Retrospective review of imaging for a cohort of 176 bisphosphonate-treated OI patients to identify the locations of femoral fractures over a two-year period, as compared to a historical control group managed pre-bisphosphonates.

Results

Sixteen femoral fractures were identified in this time period in the bisphosphonate-treated group. All but two were within the subtrochanteric region. In comparison, the historical group—composed of 26 femoral fractures—had a more widespread fracture pattern, with the most frequent location being the mid-diaphysis. Many of the subtrochanteric fractures in the treatment group occurred with minimal trauma.

Conclusions

It appears that concerns over the treatment of the adult osteoporotic population with bisphosphonates are amplified and mirrored in OI. It is possible that the high bending moments in the proximal femur together with altered mechanical properties of cortical bone secondary to the use of this group of drugs increase the risk of this type of injury, which warrants further modification of surgical management of the femur.
Modeling Disability Trajectories and Mortality of the Oldest-Old in China
Authors: Zimmer Zachary , Martin Linda G. , Nagin Daniel S. , Jones Bobby L.
Published: January 2012

This article uses a group-based modeling approach to jointly estimate disability and mortality trajectories over time based on data from the population aged 80 and older in China, and explores relations of demographic, socioeconomic, and early-life characteristics to membership in gender-specific trajectory groups. A three-group model best fits the data for both males and females. For most groups, predicted numbers of limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs) increase with age, but the pace is gradual in some cases and rapid in others. For each gender, the estimated mortality probability trajectories for the three groups follow a hierarchy that is related to the predicted ADL counts at age 80. Only a few characteristics predict trajectory-group membership. Prior nonagricultural occupation is associated with less favorable disability trajectories for both genders. For females, rural residence, a greater number of children ever born, and having a father who did not work in agriculture are associated with more favorable trajectories. For a small group of males who received education, disability is moderate but changes little with age. Findings may reflect heterogeneity of survival among the least advantaged, as well as a possible expansion of morbidity among a small advantaged group.
Educational Attainment and Adult Mortality in the United States: A Systematic Analysis of Functional Form
Authors: Montez Jennifer Karas , Hummer Robert A. , Hayward Mark D.
Published: January 2012

A vast literature has documented the inverse association between educational attainment and U.S. adult mortality risk but given little attention to identifying the optimal functional form of the association. A theoretical explanation of the association hinges on our ability to describe it empirically. Using the 1979–1998 National Longitudinal Mortality Study for non-Hispanic white and black adults aged 25–100 years during the mortality follow-up period (N = 1,008,215), we evaluated 13 functional forms across race-gender-age subgroups to determine which form(s) best captured the association. Results revealed that the preferred functional form includes a linear decline in mortality risk from 0 to 11 years of education, followed by a step-change reduction in mortality risk upon attainment of a high school diploma, at which point mortality risk resumes a linear decline but with a steeper slope than that prior to a high school diploma. The findings provide important clues for theoretical development of explanatory mechanisms: an explanation for the selected functional form may require integrating a credentialist perspective to explain the step-change reduction in mortality risk upon attainment of a high school diploma, with a human capital perspective to explain the linear declines before and after a high school diploma.
Risk factors for eclampsia in Japan between 2005 and 2009
Authors: Morikawa Mamoru , Cho Kazutoshi , Yamada Takashi , Yamada Takahiro , Sato Shoji , Minakami Hisanori
Published: January 2012

Objective

To determine risk factors for eclampsia among Japanese women with singleton pregnancies.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was carried out among patients with and those without eclampsia who were registered on the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology registry system and who gave birth to singleton infants at 22 weeks or more between 2005 and 2009. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine independent risk factors for eclampsia.

Results

One‐third (75/225) of eclampsia patients developed the condition in the absence of hypertension. Maternal age, nulliparity, and pregnancy‐induced hypertension (PIH) were all independent risk factors for eclampsia. The risk of eclampsia decreased by 3.0% per 1‐year increase in maternal age, and increased 2.6‐fold and 35.4‐fold in nulliparous women and women with PIH, respectively. Among teenaged girls with hypertension, the prevalence of eclampsia was 1 case per 28 teenagers.

Conclusion

Hypertension alone was not a reliable predictor of eclampsia. More intensified monitoring of nulliparous women and teenaged girls with hypertension is needed in order to prevent eclampsia.
Transvaginal laparoscopic surgery for ovarian cysts
Authors: Bae Jaeman , Lee Sun‐Joo , Kim Soo‐Nyung
Published: January 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of transvaginal laparoscopic surgery (TLS) using endoscopic instruments for management of ovarian cysts.

Methods

In a retrospective study, data from 140 patients with benign ovarian cysts who underwent TLS at Konkuk University Hospital between June 2007 and December 2008 were evaluated. The preoperative characteristics of patients, operative time, blood loss, complications, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

Results

The mean age of patients was 38 years (range, 16–82 years). TLS was accomplished in 136 women (97.1%). The more common pathology findings included 35 dermoid cysts, 28 endometriotic cysts, 23 mucinous cysts, 21 serous cysts, and 13 functional ovarian cysts. The median operative time was 35 minutes (range 15–110 minutes). The maximum diameter of the ovarian cysts ranged from 3 to 20 cm (mean 6 cm). The median estimated blood loss was 38 mL (range 10–80 mL). No patients received a blood transfusion. All of the patients were discharged within 24 hours of surgery. No major complications occurred.

Conclusion

Transvaginal laparoscopic surgery was found to be a feasible and cosmetically beneficial surgical technique for managing selected patients with benign ovarian cysts.
Reproducibility of a food menu to measure energy and macronutrient intakes in a laboratory and under real-life conditions
Authors: McNeil Jessica , Riou Marie-Ève , Razmjou Sahar , Cadieux Sébastien , Doucet Éric
Published: January 2012

Given the limitations associated with the measurement of food intake, we aimed to determine the reliability of a food menu to measure energy intake (EI) and macronutrient intake within the laboratory and under free-living conditions. A total of eight men and eight women (age 25·74 (sd5·9) years, BMI 23·7 (sd2·7) kg/m2) completed three identical in-laboratory sessions (ILS) and three out-of-laboratory sessions (OLS). During the ILS, participants hadad libitumaccess to a variety of foods, which they chose from a menu every hour, for 5 h. For the OLS, the foods were chosen from the menu at the start of the day and packed into containers to bring home. There were no significant differences in total EI (6118·6 (sd2691·2), 6678·8 (sd2371·3), 6489·5 (sd2742·9) kJ; NS) between the three ILS and three OLS (6816·0 (sd2713·2), 6553·5 (sd2364·5), 6456·4 (sd3066·8) kJ; NS). Significant intraclass correlations (ICC) for total energy (r0·77,P < 0·0001), carbohydrate (r0·81,P < 0·0001), dietary fat (r0·54,P < 0·0001) and protein (r0·81,P < 0·0001) intakes for the ILS and significant ICC for total energy (r0·85,P < 0·0001), carbohydrate (0·85,P < 0·0001), dietary fat (0·72P < 0·0001) and protein (0·80,P < 0·0001) intakes for the OLS were noted. The average within-subject CV for total EI was 18·3 (sd10·0) and 16·1 (sd10·3) % for the ILS and OLS, respectively, with a pleasantness rating for foods consumed of 124 (sd14) mm out of 150 mm (83 %). Overall, the food menu produces a relatively reliable measure of EI inside and outside the laboratory. The results also underscore the difficulties in capturing a representative image of food intake given the relatively high day-to-day variation in the amount and composition of foods consumed.
Trends in dietary energy, fat, carbohydrate and protein intake in Chinese children and adolescents from 1991 to 2009
Authors: Cui Zhaohui , Dibley Michael J.
Published: January 2012

Few studies have examined nutrition transition in children in China. Our aim, in the present study, was to examine temporal trends in dietary energy, fat, carbohydrate and protein intake in Chinese children aged 7–17 years. The analysis used individual level, consecutive 3 d dietary recall data from seven rounds of the China Health and Nutrition Surveys in 1991 (n2714), 1993 (n2542), 1997 (n2516), 2000 (n2142), 2004 (n1341), 2006 (n1072) and 2009 (n996). Mixed-effect models were constructed to obtain adjusted means and to examine trends after adjusting for intra-class correlation within clusters and for covariates including age, sex, urban/rural residence and income. From 1991 to 2009, daily energy intake steadily declined from 9511·0 to 7658·2 kJ (P < 0·0001). There was a steady decline in daily carbohydrate intake from 382·5 to 254·1 g (P < 0·0001), and in the proportion of energy from carbohydrate from 66·7 to 56·8 % (P < 0·0001). In contrast, daily fat intake steadily increased from 54·8 to 66·0 g (P < 0·0001), as did the proportion of energy from fat from 21·5 to 30·0 % (P < 0·0001). The proportion of children who consumed a diet with more than 30 % of energy from fat increased from 20·1 to 49·4 % (P < 0·0001). The proportion of energy from protein increased from 11·8 to 13·1 % (P < 0·0001), although daily protein intake dropped from 66·2 to 58·0 g (P < 0·0001). Our data suggest that Chinese children have been undergoing a rapid nutrition transition to a high-fat diet.
Effect of long-term intermittent supplementation with multiple micronutrients compared with iron-and-folic acid supplementation on Hb and micronutrient status of non-anaemic adolescent schoolgirls in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Faruk , Khan Moududur R. , Akhtaruzzaman Mohammad , Karim Rezaul , Williams Gail , Banu Cadi P. , Nahar Badrun , Darnton-Hill Ian
Published: January 2012

The present study examined whether long-term supplementation with once- and twice-weekly multiple micronutrients (MMN-1 and MMN-2) can improve Hb and micronutrient status more than twice-weekly Fe–folic acid (IFA-2) supplementation in non-anaemic adolescent girls in Bangladesh. An equal number of 324 rural schoolgirls aged 11–17 years were given MMN-1 or MMN-2 or IFA-2 supplements for 52 weeks in a randomised, double-blind trial. Blood samples were collected at baseline, and at 26 and 52 weeks of supplementation. The girls receiving IFA-2 supplements were more likely to be anaemic than the girls receiving MMN-2 supplements for 26 weeks (OR 5·1, 95 % CI 1·3, 19·5;P = 0·018). All three supplements reduced Fe deficiency effectively. Both the MMN-1 and MMN-2 groups showed significantly greater improvements in vitamins A, B2and C status than the girls in the IFA-2 group, as might be expected. Receiving a MMN-1 supplement was found to be less effective than MMN-2 supplement in improving Fe, vitamins A, B2and folic acid status. Receiving micronutrient supplements beyond 26 weeks showed little additional benefit in improving micronutrient status. In conclusion, given twice-weekly for 26 weeks, MMN supplements can improve micronutrient status effectively with no significant increase in Hb concentration compared with IFA supplements in non-anaemic Bangladeshi adolescent girls. However, it significantly reduces the risk of anaemia. Before any recommendations can be made, further research, including into cost-effectiveness, is needed to see whether MMN supplementation has any additional longer-term health benefits over that of IFA supplementation in this population.
Evaluation of the effect of wheat aleurone-rich foods on markers of antioxidant status, inflammation and endothelial function in apparently healthy men and women
Authors: Price Ruth K. , Wallace Julie M. W. , Hamill Lesley L. , Keaveney Edel M. , Strain J. J. , Parker Michael J. , Welch Robert W.
Published: January 2012

Observational data show an inverse association between the consumption of wholegrain foods, and inflammation and related diseases. Although the underlying mechanisms are unclear, wholegrains, and in particular the aleurone layer, contain a wide range of components with putative antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. We evaluated the effects of a diet high in wheat aleurone on plasma antioxidants status, markers of inflammation and endothelial function. In this parallel, participant-blinded intervention, seventy-nine healthy, older, overweight participants (45–65 years, BMI>25 kg/m2) incorporated either aleurone-rich cereal products (27 g aleurone/d), or control products balanced for fibre and macronutrients, into their habitual diets for 4 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and on day 29. Results showed that, compared to control, consumption of aleurone-rich products provided substantial amounts of micronutrients and phytochemicals which may function as antioxidants. Additionally, incorporating these products into a habitual diet resulted in significantly lower plasma concentrations of the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein (P = 0·035), which is an independent risk factor for CVD. However, no changes were observed in other markers of inflammation, antioxidant status or endothelial function. These results provide a possible mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of longer-term wholegrain intake. However, it is unclear whether this effect is owing to a specific component, or a combination of components in wheat aleurone.
Associations between frequency of tea consumption and health and mortality: evidence from old Chinese
Authors: Qiu Li , Sautter Jessica , Gu Danan
Published: January 2012

Tea consumption may be associated with reduced risk of morbidity and mortality; however, this association is not conclusive and has rarely been investigated among very old adults. The present study examines how self-reported frequency of tea consumption in daily life is associated with health and mortality among very old adults in China. The data are from a national longitudinal data set that included 32 606 individuals (13 429 men and 19 177 women) aged 65 years and older: 11 807 respondents aged 65 to 84 years and 20 799 respondents aged 85 years and older. A total of four measurements between 1998 and 2005 resulted in 51 668 observations. Hazard regressions showed that men who drink tea almost every day have a 10–20 % lower risk of death compared to their counterparts who seldom drink tea, after adjusting for numerous confounders including baseline health. This relationship was stronger in younger male elders aged 65 to 84 years than in the oldest-old men aged 85 years and older. However, frequency of tea consumption was not significantly associated with mortality in women. Our analyses further show that high frequency of tea consumption is significantly associated with reduced OR of disability in activities of daily living, cognitive impairment, self-rated poor health, cumulative health deficits and CVD in both young elders and the oldest-old, and in both men and women. These results suggest that the health benefit of drinking tea is universal. We conclude that frequent tea consumption probably helps one achieve healthy longevity and that men benefit more from such lifestyles.
Attenuation of colonic inflammation by partial replacement of dietary linoleic acid with α-linolenic acid in a rat model of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tyagi Anupama , Kumar Uday , Reddy Suryam , S. Santosh Vadakattu , B. Mohammed Saazida , Ehtesham Nasreen Z. , Ibrahim Ahamed
Published: January 2012

Increasing prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease may be due to imbalance in the intake ofn-6 andn-3 PUFA in the diet. This study investigates the impact of varying ratios of dietary linoleic acid (LA, 18 : 2n-6) to α-linolenic acid (ALA, 18 : 3n-3) on the inflammatory response in dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. Weanling male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into five groups: a non-colitic group with a LA:ALA ratio of 215 (CON-215), and colitic groups with LA:ALA ratios of 215 (DSS-215), 50 (DSS-50), 10 (DSS-10) and 2 (DSS-2). Blends of groundnut, palmolein and linseed oils were used to provide varying LA:ALA ratios. All the rats were fed the respective experimental isoenergetic diets containing 10 % fat for 90 d and DSS was administered during the last 11 d. Colonic inflammation was evaluated by clinical, biochemical and histological parameters. The results showed attenuation of colitis in the DSS-2 group as evidenced by significant reductions in disease activity index, mucosal myeloperoxidase activity (P < 0·05), alkaline phosphatase activity (P < 0·01) and increase in colon length (P < 0·01) compared to the groups fed with higher ratios (DSS-215). This was accompanied by significant reductions in mucosal proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α (P < 0·01) and IL-1β (P < 0·01) and improvement in the histological score. Further, ALA supplementation increased long-chain (LC)n-3 PUFA and decreased LCn-6 PUFA in colon structural lipids. These data suggest that substitution of one-third of LA with ALA (LA:ALA ratio 2) mitigates experimental colitis by down-regulating proinflammatory mediators.
Inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides have divergent effects on colitis and commensal microbiota in HLA-B27 transgenic rats
Authors: Koleva Petya T. , Valcheva Rosica S. , Sun Xu , Gänzle Michael G. , Dieleman Levinus A.
Published: January 2012

Modulation of intestinal microbiota by non-digestible carbohydrates may reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) on intestinal microbiota and colitis in HLA-B27 transgenic rats, a well-validated rodent model for IBD. In this study, 4-week-old rats were fed 8 g/kg body weight inulin or FOS for 12 weeks, or not. Faeces were collected at 4 and 16 weeks of age; and caecal samples were collected at necropsy. The effects of inulin and FOS on chronic intestinal inflammation were assessed using a gross gut score, histology score and levels of mucosal IL-1β. Intestinal microbiota were characterised by quantitative PCR and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Colitis was significantly reduced in all FOS-fed rats compared to the control diet, whereas inulin decreased chronic intestinal inflammation in only half the number of animals. Quantitative analysis of caecal microbiota demonstrated that inulin increased the numbers of total bacteria and theBacteroides-Prevotella-Porphyromonasgroup, FOS increased bifidobacteria, and both fructans decreasedClostridiumcluster XI. In the faecal samples, both inulin and FOS decreased total bacteria,Bacteroides-Prevotella-Porphyromonasgroup, andClostridiumclusters XI and XIVa. FOS increasedBifidobacteriumspp., and mediated a decrease of gene copies of Enterobacteriaceae andClostridium difficiletoxin B in faeces. SCFA concentrations in the faecal and caecal samples were unaffected by the diets. In conclusion, FOS increased the abundance ofBifidobacteriumspp., whereas both fructans reducedClostridiumcluster XI andC. difficiletoxin gene expression, correlating with a reduction of chronic intestinal inflammation.
Glycaemic, insulin and ghrelin responses to traditional South Asian flatbreads in diabetic and healthy subjects
Authors: Khawaja Khadija I. , Fatima Aziz , Mian Saqib A. , Mumtaz Usman , Moazzum Amena , Ghias Muhammad , Masud Faisal
Published: January 2012

In the South-East Asian subcontinent, flatbreads contribute the main portion of carbohydrate to a meal. There are no specific data on the effect of different flatbreads on satiety and recurrent hunger, as indicated by the duration of ghrelin suppression after a meal. The present study was designed to examine the glycaemic, insulin and ghrelin responses to traditional subcontinental breads in type 2 diabetic subjects and healthy volunteers. For this purpose, twelve normoglycaemic healthy volunteers and ten type 2 diabetic patients, in the fasting state, consumed one of five common flatbreads on consecutive days. Capillary blood glucose was examined in the fasting state and serially for 5 h after a meal. Serum insulin and ghrelin levels were determined at hourly intervals for 5 h after the consumption of bran and plain chapatti flatbreads. The incremental area under the curve (iAUC) was calculated for glycaemic and insulin responses, while the net AUC was used to assess the ghrelin response. The results showed that glycaemic and insulin iAUC were lowest for bran chapatti, and highest for plain chapatti. Furthermore, bran chapatti showed maximum ghrelin suppression in both normal and diabetic groups. In conclusion, the low-glycaemic index bran chapatti flatbread had a lower postprandial glycaemic excursion and insulin response, and a more prolonged suppression of ghrelin levels, compared with the plain chapatti flatbread, and in each case, the difference was greater for the diabetic subjects than for the normal subjects. The inclusion of these flatbreads in the diabetic/weight-reducing diet may help weight loss by promoting satiety and reducing hyperinsulinaemia.
β2-1 Fructans have a bifidogenic effect in healthy middle-aged human subjects but do not alter immune responses examined in the absence of an in vivo immune challenge: results from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lomax Amy R. , Cheung Lydia V. Y. , Tuohy Kieran M. , Noakes Paul S. , Miles Elizabeth A. , Calder Philip C.
Published: January 2012

β2-1 fructans are considered to be prebiotics. Current literature indicates that β2-1 fructans may modulate some aspects of immune function, improve the host's ability to respond to certain intestinal infections, and modify some inflammatory outcomes in human subjects. However, there is a need to find out more about the modulation of immune markers by β2-1 fructans in humans. Healthy human subjects aged 45–65 years were randomly allocated to β2-1 fructans (Orafti® Synergy1; 8 g/d; n 22) or the digestible carbohydrate maltodextrin as placebo (n 21) for 4 weeks. Blood, saliva and faecal samples were collected at study entry and after 4 weeks. Immune parameters were measured using the blood and saliva samples and bifidobacteria were measured in the faecal samples. Faecal bifidobacteria numbers increased in the Orafti® Synergy1 group (P < 0·001) and were different at 4 weeks from numbers in the placebo group (P = 0·001). There was no significant effect of Orafti® Synergy1 on any of the immune parameters measured (blood immune cell subsets, total serum Ig, salivary IgA, neutrophil and monocyte phagocytosis of Escherichia coli and respiratory burst in response to E. coli or phorbol ester, natural killer cell activity, T cell activation and proliferation, production of six cytokines by T cells). It is concluded that, compared with maltodextrin, Orafti® Synergy1 has a bifidogenic effect in healthy middle-aged human subjects but does not alter immune responses examined in the absence of an in vivo immune challenge.
Simulations of two-stream instability in opposite polarity dusty plasmas
Authors: CLARK S. ERIC , ROSENBERG M. , QUEST K.
Published: January 2012

One-dimensional Particle in Cell simulations of a dust–dust counterstreaming instability in a plasma containing dust grains of opposite charge polarity are presented. This dust–dust instability has potentially the lowest threshold drift for a dust wave instability in an unmagnetized dusty plasma. The linear and nonlinear development of this instability is investigated, including the effects of collisions with background neutrals, and a background electric field that acts as a driver to impart the drift velocities of the counter-streaming oppositely charged dust particles. The saturation of the linear instability appears to be due to dust heating related to dust trapping. Potential double layer formation from dust–dust instability turbulence is observed in cases with a high neutral collision rate. A comparative study is done with varying collision rates and background electric fields to explore the nonlinear development as a function of collision rate and background electric field. Applications to possible dusty plasma experimental parameters are discussed.
Fixed price of groups and percolation
Authors: LYONS RUSSELL
Published: January 2012

We prove that for every finitely generated group Γ, at least one of the following holds: (1) Γ has fixed price; (2) each of its Cayley graphs G has infinitely many infinite clusters for some Bernoulli percolation on G.
Modeling and assessment of the backlash error of an industrial robot
Authors: Slamani Mohamed , Nubiola Albert , Bonev Ilian A.
Published: January 2012

This paper proposes an experimental approach for evaluating the backlash error of an ABB IRB 1600 industrial serial robot under various conditions using a laser interferometer measurement instrument. The effects of the backlash error are assessed by experiments conducted on horizontal and vertical paths. A polynomial model was used to represent the relationship between the backlash error and the robot configuration. A strategy based on statistical tests was developed to choose the degree of polynomial representing the effect of the tool center point (TCP) speed and payload. Results show that the backlash error strongly affects the repeatability of the industrial robot. Statistical analyses prove that the backlash is highly dependent on both robot configuration and TCP speed, whereas it remains nearly unaffected by changes in the payload. It was discovered that the backlash error as measured at the TCP may exceeds 100 μm, and that the positive backlash error increases and the negative backlash error decreases when there is increase in TCP speed.
Sleep in older people
Authors: Woodward Michael
Published: January 2012

Insomnia and other sleep disturbances are common in older people, with up to 40% reporting some difficulty sleeping. Insomnia is a syndrome with multiple causes including medications, other illnesses and environmental factors. An accurate diagnosis is needed for effective management. Sleep disturbances are associated with functional and cognitive impairment and excess mortality. Management should initially be non-pharmacological including sleep hygiene education and behavioural therapy. Medications, including benzodiazepines (BZDs), are second-line with little evidence to support long-term usage. BZD usage in older people is associated with a range of disorders including falls, accidents and cognitive impairment. The management of insomnia in specific situations such as residential care, those with dementia and depressed older people can be challenging. Additional research is needed, particularly on the risks/benefit of long-term pharmacotherapy and to determine whether therapy reduces the consequences of sleep disturbances.
Neighbourhoods and dementia in the health and social care context: a realist review of the literature and implications for UK policy development
Authors: Keady John , Campbell Sarah , Barnes Helen , Ward Richard , Li Xia , Swarbrick Caroline , Burrow Simon , Elvish Ruth
Published: January 2012

The National Dementia Strategy in England has performed an essential role in transforming health and social care services and improving the commissioning architecture. However, to date, little attention has been paid to understanding the ways in which the outdoor and built environment impacts and intersects with the lives of people with dementia and their carers. One way of better understanding the outdoor and built environment is through a focus on the ‘neighbourhood’ as this is an area of public policy where attempts are being made across disciplines to unpack its meanings, significance and identity. This paper adopts a realist review method to detail the key findings and messages from the body of work that links the experience of living with dementia to the neighbourhood. Our findings from this review are assimilated and defined/presented under three headings, namely: outdoor spaces, built environment, and everyday technologies. These headings and our definitions are not discrete properties and there is some overlap in content. We found no research that sets out to enquire about how people with dementia might define their neighbourhood or that explores everyday neighbourhood practices for those living with the condition. Emerging concepts such as citizenship and, in the UK, the Coalition Government advancement of the ‘Big Society’, promote a vision of civic responsibilities and networked, dementia-capable communities, but evaluation of such initiatives are virtually absent from the literature. The review did uncover some interesting and innovative research methods that extend neighbourhood working, such as the ‘walking interview’. In order to develop a neighbourhood model for dementia, future research should examine the relationship and interaction between the neighbourhood as a social space and as a physical space alongside the active role of people with dementia as ‘place-makers’.
Learning the lexical aspects of a second language at different proficiencies: A neural computational study
Authors: CUPPINI CRISTIANO , MAGOSSO ELISA , URSINO MAURO
Published: January 2012

We present an original model designed to study how a second language (L2) is acquired in bilinguals at different proficiencies starting from an existing L1. The model assumes that the conceptual and lexical aspects of languages are stored separately: conceptual aspects in distinct topologically organized Feature Areas, and lexical aspects in a single Lexical Network. Lexical and semantic aspects are then linked together during Hebbian learning phases by presenting L2 lexical items and their L1 translation equivalents. The model hypothesizes the existence of a competitive mechanism to solve conflicts and simulate language switching tasks. Results demonstrate that, at the beginning of training, an L2 lexicon must parasitize its L1 equivalent to access its conceptual meaning. At intermediate proficiency, L2 items may evoke their semantics independently of L1, but with a high risk of interference. At higher proficiency, the L2 representation becomes progressively similar to the L1 representation, according to Green's (2003) convergence hypothesis.
The absence of P2X7 receptors (P2rx7) on non-haematopoietic cells leads to selective alteration in mood-related behaviour with dysregulated gene expression and stress reactivity in mice
Authors: Csölle Cecilia , Andó Rómeó D. , Kittel Ágnes , Gölöncsér Flóra , Baranyi Mária , Soproni Krisztina , Zelena Dóra , Haller József , Németh Tamás , Mócsai Attila , Sperlágh Beáta
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to explore how genetic deletion and pharmacological antagonism of the P2X7 receptor (P2rx7) alter mood-related behaviour, gene expression and stress reactivity in the brain. The forced swim test (FST), tail suspension test (TST) and amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion (AH) tests were used in wild-type (P2rx7+/+) and P2rx7-deficient (P2rx7−/−) mice. Biogenic amine levels were analysed in the amygdala and striatum, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone levels were measured in the plasma and pituitary after restraint stress. Chimeric mice were generated by bone marrow transplantation. A whole genome microarray analysis with real-time polymerase chain reaction validation was performed on the amygdala. In the absence of P2rx7s decreased behavioural despair in the FST, reduced immobility in the TST and attenuated amphetamine-induced hyperactivity were detected. Basal norepinephrine levels were elevated in the amygdala, whereas stress-induced ACTH and corticosterone responses were alleviated in P2rx7−/− mice. Sub-acute treatment with the selective P2rx7 antagonist, Brilliant Blue G, reproduced the effect of genetic deletion in the TST and AH test in P2rx7+/+ but not P2rx7−/− mice. No change in behavioural phenotype was observed in chimeras lacking the P2rx7 in their haematopoietic compartment. Whole genome microarray analysis indicated a widespread up- and down-regulation of genes crucial for synaptic function and neuroplasticity by genetic deletion. Here, we present evidence that the absence of P2rx7s on non-haematopoietic cells leads to a mood-stabilizing phenotype in several behavioural models and suggest a therapeutic potential of P2rx7 antagonists for the treatment of mood disorders.
Hydrologic and climate trends for the Coldwater River watershed in south-central British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Rayne Sierra , Forest Kaya
Published: January 2012

Historical trends in streamflow and climate were investigated for the Coldwater River watershed in south-central British Columbia, Canada. Temporal increases in rainfall and total precipitation during the spring, summer, and autumn periods, as well as on an annual basis, at the city of Merritt near the mouth of the watershed, and year-round temperature increases at this site, compare with declining summertime and annual streamflows at the nearby Merritt hydrometric station on the Coldwater River. Declining summer flows at this site could reflect the dominance of temporally increasing evaporation that is offsetting increased precipitation over the same periods of the hydrologic year. Alternatively, increased water abstractions, altered regulation regimes, and/or land use changes in the watershed may also play significant/dominant roles. The relative absence of any coherent hydrological temporal patterns at the upstream Brookmere hydrometric station on the Coldwater River suggests that the net effects of warming temperatures, increasing precipitation, and any anthropogenic drivers over the past four decades are in approximate balance.
Novel structural arrangement of nematode cystathionine β-synthases: characterization of Caenorhabditis elegans CBS-1
Authors: Vozdek Roman , Hnízda Aleš , Krijt Jakub , Kostrouchová Marta , Kožich Viktor
Published: January 2012

CBSs (cystathionine β-synthases) are eukaryotic PLP (pyridoxal 5 *-phosphate)-dependent proteins that maintain cellular homocysteine homoeostasis and produce cystathionine and hydrogen sulfide. In the present study, we describe a novel structural arrangement of the CBS enzyme encoded by the cbs-1 gene of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The CBS-1 protein contains a unique tandem repeat of two evolutionarily conserved catalytic regions in a single polypeptide chain. These repeats include a catalytically active C-terminal module containing a PLP-binding site and a less conserved N-terminal module that is unable to bind the PLP cofactor and cannot catalyse CBS reactions, as demonstrated by analysis of truncated variants and active-site mutant proteins. In contrast with other metazoan enzymes, CBS-1 lacks the haem and regulatory Bateman domain essential for activation by AdoMet (S-adenosylmethionine) and only forms monomers. We determined the tissue and subcellular distribution of CBS-1 and showed that cbs-1 knockdown by RNA interference leads to delayed development and to an approximately 10-fold elevation of homocysteine concentrations in nematode extracts. The present study provides the first insight into the metabolism of sulfur amino acids and hydrogen sulfide in C. elegans and shows that nematode CBSs possess a structural feature that is unique among CBS proteins.
Ceramide synthases at the centre of sphingolipid metabolism and biology
Authors: Mullen Thomas D. , Hannun Yusuf A. , Obeid Lina M.
Published: January 2012

Sphingolipid metabolism in metazoan cells consists of a complex interconnected web of numerous enzymes, metabolites and modes of regulation. At the centre of sphingolipid metabolism reside CerSs (ceramide synthases), a group of enzymes that catalyse the formation of ceramides from sphingoid base and acyl-CoA substrates. From a metabolic perspective, these enzymes occupy a unique niche in that they simultaneously regulate de novo sphingolipid synthesis and the recycling of free sphingosine produced from the degradation of pre-formed sphingolipids (salvage pathway). Six mammalian CerSs (CerS1–CerS6) have been identified. Unique characteristics have been described for each of these enzymes, but perhaps the most notable is the ability of individual CerS isoforms to produce ceramides with characteristic acyl-chain distributions. Through this control of acyl-chain length and perhaps in a compartment-specific manner, CerSs appear to regulate multiple aspects of sphingolipid-mediated cell and organismal biology. In the present review, we discuss the function of CerSs as critical regulators of sphingolipid metabolism, highlight their unique characteristics and explore the emerging roles of CerSs in regulating programmed cell death, cancer and many other aspects of biology.
A New Method of Wavelength Calibration for LAMOST by Combining Short- and Long-Exposure Spectral Lines
Authors: Ye G. H. , Zhu J. , Ye Z. F.
Published: January 2012

In wavelength calibration using arc lines, the normal approach is to use the strongest unsaturated lines, leaving weak lines unused. A new method is proposed in this paper, which not only utilizes the strong spectral lines, but also makes most use of weak spectral lines. In order to validate the effectiveness of the method we propose, experiments are performed on simulated spectra. Firstly, two kinds of spectra are generated: one with a short exposure and another with a long exposure. Secondly, calibration lines are chosen from the short exposure and long exposure spectra separately according to some rules. Thirdly, the initial wavelength calibration is completed by using the selected short-exposure lines. Fourthly, the approximate centroids of the selected long-exposure lines are obtained by utilizing the result of the initial wavelength calibration. These are then adjusted iteratively to obtain the centroids. Finally, the selected lines from the short- and long-exposures are combined to obtain the final wavelength calibration. Compared with traditional calibration methods which only use short exposures and strong lines, the proposed method is shown to be more accurate.
Understanding policy: why health education policy is important and why it does not appear to work
Authors: Evans John , Davies Brian , Rich Emma , DePian Laura
Published: January 2012

Drawing on research investigating the impact of health imperatives around obesity, diet and exercise on the actions of teachers and pupils in schools, this paper offers a reflexive account of the relationships between the ‘noise’ of obesity discourse in the public domain, policies forged to tackle health issues and the realities of teaching in schools. Our analyses suggest that intersections of bio‐policies, body pedagogies and human agents forge assemblages of meaning that frame and regulate but cannot determine either teachers' or young people's lives. Teachers and pupils experience the capriciousness of policies as they flow through specific school contexts and intersect with ‘local’ institutional cultures, expectations and interests. We suggest that Basil Bernstein's concepts and poststructural social theory prove useful when addressing how the aforementioned processes are emplaced, enacted and embodied.
Anti-fascism for children: Ada Gobetti's story of Sebastiano the Rooster
Authors: Alano Jomarie
Published: January 2012

Ada Gobetti's Storia del gallo Sebastiano represents one of her many anti-fascist activities. By the time of the story's creation, Ada Gobetti had lived under fascism for 16 years. While Sebastiano descended from a long line of non-conformists in children's literature, it imparted a very specific ideological and political agenda, since Sebastiano was born at the height of fascism. Read by thousands of Italian children during the war, the story provided a clever critique of Mussolini's attempt to make children conform to the fascist ideal. Through Sebastiano, Ada Gobetti enlisted parents and their children in her efforts to urge Italians to resist fascism. After the war, as vice-mayor of Turin, the first woman to hold such a position in Italy, Ada Gobetti worked diligently to effect positive reforms in the schools, and fought openly for the rights of Italian women and children. She also wrote extensively on child rearing and devoted much of the remainder of her life to pedagogic activities to promote a ‘democratic education’ for both children and their parents.
‘Io sono qui muto e solitario’: Giovannino Guareschi's prison writings, 1954–1955
Authors: Perry Alan R.
Published: January 2012

Giovannino Guareschi, author of the immensely popular Don Camillo stories and editor of the weekly newspaper Candido, spent 14 months in a Parma prison from 1954 to 1955 for having libelled the former Prime Minister Alcide De Gasperi. To this day, he is the only Italian journalist since the founding of the Republic ever to have served actual, behind-bars jail time for libel. This study examines several aspects of Guareschi's life in prison – the ways he coped with boredom and loneliness, the attempts he made to understand his fellow inmates and how he defiantly tried to buoy his spirits. In particular, it focuses on both his correspondence with his wife Ennia, a collection of 44 letters, and his personal musings kept in two prison diaries – all documents that have never been published. The analysis rectifies common misinterpretations as to why Guareschi purposely refused to appeal his guilty verdict and chose to go to jail, considers how Guareschi presented himself in his writings and contemplates Guareschi's place in the history of Italian prison writing.