bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion of cropland into grassland: Implications for soil organic‐carbon stocks in two soils with different texture
Authors: Don Axel , Scholten Thomas , Schulze Ernst‐Detlef
Published: November 2008

Soil organic‐carbon (SOC) stocks are expected to increase after conversion of cropland into grassland. Two adjacent cropland and grassland sites—one with a Vertisol with 23 y after conversion and one with an Arenosol 29 y after conversion—were sampled down to 60 cm depth. Concentrations of SOC and total nitrogen (Ntot) were measured before and after density fractionation in two light fractions and a mineral‐associated fraction with C adsorbed on mineral surfaces. For the soil profiles, SOC stocks and radiocarbon (14C) concentrations of mineral associated C were determined.

Carbon stocks and mineral‐associated SOC concentrations were increased in the upper 10 cm of the grassland soil compared to the cropland. This corresponded to the root‐biomass distribution, with 59% and 86% of the total root biomass at 0–5 cm soil depth of the grasslands. However, at the Arenosol site, at 10–20 cm depth, C in the mineral‐associated fraction was lost 29 y after the conversion into grassland. Over all, SOC stocks were not significantly different between grassland and cropland at both sites when the whole profile was taken into account. At the Arenosol site, the impact of land‐use conversion on SOC accumulation was limited by low total clay surface area available for C stabilization. Subsoil C (30–50 cm) at cropland of the Vertisol site comprised 32% of the total SOC stocks with high 14C concentrations below the plowing horizon. We concluded that fresh C was effectively translocated into the subsoil. Thus, subsoil C has to be taken into account when land‐use change effects on SOC are assessed.
Decomposition of wheat straw differing in nitrogen content in soils under conventional and organic farming management
Authors: Scheller Edwin , Rainer Georg Joergensen †
Published: November 2008

An incubation experiment was carried out to investigate the interactions of two straw qualities differing in N content and two soils differently accustomed to straw additions. One soil under conventional farming management (CFM) regularly received straw, the other soil under organic farming management (OFM) only farmyard manure. The soils of the two sites were similar in texture, pH, cation‐exchange capacity, and glucosamine content. The soil from the OFM site had higher contents of organic C, total N, muramic acid, microbial biomass C and N (Cmic and Nmic), but a lower ergosterol content and lower ratios ergosterol to Cmic and fungal C to bacterial C. The straw from the CFM had threefold higher contents of total N, twofold higher contents of ergosterol and glucosamine, a 50% higher content of muramic acid, and a 30% higher fungal C–to–bacterial C ratio. The straw amendments led to significant net increases in Cmic, Nmic, and ergosterol. Microbial biomass C showed on average a 50% higher net increase in the organic than in the CFM soil. In contrast, the net increases in Nmic and ergosterol differed only slightly between the two soils after straw amendment. The CO2 evolution from the CFM soil always exceeded that from the OFM, by 50% or 200 µg (g soil)–1 in the nonamended control soil and by 55% or additional 600 µg (g soil)–1 in the two straw treatments. In both soils, 180 µg g–1 less was evolved as CO2‐C from the OFM straw. The metabolic quotient qCO2 was nearly twice as high in the control and in the straw treatments of the CFM soil compared with that of the OFM. In contrast, the difference in qCO2 was insignificant between the two straw qualities. Differences in the fungal‐community structure may explain to a large extent the difference in the microbial use of straw in the two soils under different managements.
Microbial activity and community structure in degraded soils on the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Hamer Ute , Makeschin Franz , An Shaoshan , Zheng Fenli
Published: November 2008

Soil erosion is the main process leading to soil degradation on the Loess Plateau of China. The effects of soil‐erosion intensity (sheet, rill, and gully erosion) and different land use (140 y–old secondary forest site, 16 y–old bare site, 6 y–old succession site, and 43 y–old arable site) on gross and net N mineralization, soil organic‐carbon (SOC) turnover, the size and structure of the soil microbial community (phospholipid fatty acid analysis) were assessed. Erosion intensity in the bare plot increased from top slope (sheet erosion) to down slope (gully erosion). The more severe the soil erosion the stronger was the decline of SOC, total N, and microbial biomass (MB). The MBC/SOC ratio decreased whereas the metabolic quotient (qCO2) increased. Differences in nutrient turnover in the different erosion zones of the bare plot were not significant. The microbial community changed towards less Gram negative bacteria and relative more fungi in the gully‐erosion zone. In forest soils, qCO2 and the MBC/SOC ratio demonstrate a higher substrate‐use efficiency of the microbial biomass than in bare soils. Gross N mineralization and gross NH$ _4^+ $ consumption clearly indicated a higher microbial activity in forest than in bare soils. Arable land use shifted the soil microbial community towards a higher relative abundance of fungi and a lower one of actinomycetes. During 6 y of natural succession on former bare plots, soil nutrient content and turnover as well as microbial biomass and structure developed towards forest conditions.
Silicon effects on nodule growth, dry‐matter production, and mineral nutrition of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
Authors: Mali Manju , Aery and Naresh C.
Published: November 2008

Silicon (Si) is not considered as an essential element for plant growth and development but application of Si improved plant growth. In this study, the effect of various concentrations of Si as sodium metasilicate (0, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 µg g–1) on nodule growth and mineral nutrition of Rhizobium sp. U 15–inoculated cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) plants grown in pots was studied. Lower additions of Si (50–100 µg g–1) significantly increased nodule growth (nodule number, nodule fresh weight and dry weight), relative yield of root and shoot, nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium concentrations. Plant Si concentrations increased with an increase in soil‐applied Si. Nodule growth negatively correlated with higher applied concentrations of Si (200–800 µg g–1). The results indicate that Si at low concentrations is beneficial for nodule growth.
A Zinc(II)/Poly(γ‐glutamic acid) Complex as an Oral Therapeutic for the Treatment of Type‐2 Diabetic KKAy Mice
Authors: Karmaker Subarna , Saha Tapan K. , Yoshikawa Yutaka , Sakurai Hiromu
Published: November 2008

In developing new insulin‐mimetic zinc(II) complexes with various ligands including a biodegradable polymer, we prepared and characterized a Zn(γ‐pga) complex in solution as well as in solid, and investigated its in vitro insulin‐mimetic activity and in vivo antidiabetic effect in type‐2 diabetic KKAy mice. The in vitro insulin‐mimetic activity of the Zn(γ‐pga) complex was considerable better than that of ZnSO4. The Zn(γ‐pga) complex normalized the hyperglycemia in KKAy mice within 21 d when administrated orally at doses of 10–20 mg (0.15–0.31 mmol) Zn per kg body mass for 30 d. In addition, the impaired glucose tolerance, elevated HbA1c levels and metabolic syndromes were significantly improved in Zn(γ‐pga)‐treated KKAy mice relative to those administrated with saline and ZnSO4.

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Scattering Study of the Structure of Polystyrene Sulfonate Comb Polyelectrolytes in Solution
Authors: Papagiannopoulos Aristeidis , Fernyhough Christine M. , Waigh Thomas A. , Radulescu Aurel
Published: November 2008

The structures of a range of PSS combs in aqueous solutions were characterized using SLS, DLS, SANS and SAXS. Combined SLS and SANS data indicated that the comb polyelectrolytes adopted extended cylindrical structures in dilute solutions. The degree of extension of the side‐chains was analyzed by fitting the data with a novel cylindrical form factor using a variable number density of monomers. The results were in agreement with hydrodynamic radii from DLS measurements. Addition of salt to the samples caused a contraction of the cylindrical morphology, but the chains continued to adopt relatively extended conformations. In semi‐dilute solutions a universal behaviour, independent of the comb topology, was found for the screening length in SAXS measurements.

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To donate or not to donate? Product characteristics and framing effects of cause‐related marketing on consumer purchase behavior
Authors: Chang Chun‐Tuan
Published: November 2008

The present study examines potential influences associated with donation framing, product price, product type, and donation magnitude on cause‐related marketing (CRM) campaigns, where money is donated to a charity each time a consumer makes a pur‐chase. In addition to the main effects of the aforementioned factors, experimental results indicate that beneficial effects of product type (i.e., frivolous products bundled with a cause are more effective than practical ones) occur when donation information is framed in absolute dollar terms. The effects of donation framing are found insignificant when the donation magnitude is high. Influences of donation magnitude on CRM effectiveness are limited in high‐priced items. When the donation magnitude is constant, a donation amount framed in absolute dollar value is more effective than that in percentage terms for low‐priced products, and the opposite is true for high‐priced items. In practice, marketers thus stand to gain not only by matching the donation magnitude in their advertised products with the right price but also by an appropriate “framing” of the offered bundles. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The influence of past behavior on behavioral intent: An information‐processing explanation
Authors: Kidwell Blair , Jewell Robert D.
Published: November 2008

Despite considerable research on the impact of past behavior on decision making over the past two decades, little is yet known about how past experience moderates decision theoretic factors within models of behavioral intent. This research explores the implications of past behavior within the theory of planned behavior (TPB), and how it influences key decision‐making variables. A theoretical model of how past behavior can induce deliberative versus heuristic processing of information is developed and tested. Consumer implications of the impact of past behavior on behavioral intentions are discussed, highlighting the importance of addressing one's experience when making a decision. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vertical stress distributions around batter piles driven in cross‐anisotropic media
Authors: Wang Cheng‐Der , Lee Tzen‐Chin , Chen Ming‐Tang
Published: November 2008

This work presents analytical solutions to compute the vertical stresses for a cross‐anisotropic half‐space due to various loading types by batter piles. The loading types are an embedded point load for an end‐bearing pile, uniform skin friction, and linear variation of skin friction for a friction pile. The cross‐anisotropic planes are parallel to the horizontal ground surface. The proposed solutions can be obtained by utilizing Wang and Liao's solutions for a horizontal and vertical point load acting in the interior of a cross‐anisotropic medium. The derived cross‐anisotropic solutions using a limiting approach are in perfect agreement with the isotropic solutions of Ramiah and Chickanagappa with the consideration of pile inclination. Additionally, the present solutions are identical to the cross‐anisotropic solutions by Wang for the batter angle equals to 0. The influential factors in yielded solutions include the type and degree of geomaterial anisotropy, pile inclination, and distinct loading types. An example is illustrated to clarify the effect of aforementioned factors on the vertical stresses. The parametric results reveal that the stresses considering the geomaterial anisotropy and pile batter differ from those of previous isotropic and cross‐anisotropic solutions. Hence, it is imperative to take the pile inclination into account when piles are required to transmit both the axial and lateral loads in the cross‐anisotropic media. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rotational kinematic hardening model for three‐dimensional stress reversals in sand
Authors: Lade Poul V. , Yamamuro Jerry A. , Gutta Suresh K.
Published: November 2008

A kinematic hardening mechanism has previously been proposed to capture the behavior of soil during large stress reversals in the triaxial plane. This mechanism is now extended to the principal stress space. It incorporates rotation and intersection of yield surfaces to achieve a consistent and physically rational fit with experimentally observed soil behavior during large three‐dimensional stress reversals. An existing elasto‐plastic model with isotropic hardening is used as the basic framework to which the rotational kinematic hardening mechanism has been added. The new combined model preserves the behavior of the isotropic hardening model under monotonic loading conditions, and the extension from isotropic to rotational kinematic hardening under three‐dimensional conditions is accomplished without introducing new material parameters. The framework of the model is presented here with some comparisons between theoretical and experimental directions of strain increment vectors to indicate the potential of the model. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An elastoplastic strainhardening model for soil allowing for hydraulic bonding–debonding effects
Authors: Buscarnera Giuseppe , Nova Roberto
Published: November 2008

The paper presents a strainhardening constitutive model for unsaturated soil behaviour based on energy conjugated stress variables in the framework of superposed continua. The proposed constitutive law deals with hydro‐mechanical coupling phenomena. The main purpose is to develop within a consistent framework a model that can deal with possible mechanical instabilities occurring in partially saturated materials. The loss of capillary effects during wetting processes can, in fact, play a central role in unstable processes. Therefore, it will be shown that the bonding effects due to surface tensions can be described in a mathematical framework similar to that employed for bonded geomaterials to model weathering or diagenesis effects, either mechanically or chemically induced. The results of several simulations of common laboratory tests on partially saturated soil specimens are shown. The calculated behaviour appears to be in good qualitative agreement with that observed in the laboratory. In particular it is shown that volumetric collapse phenomena due to hydraulic debonding effects can be successfully described by the model. Finally, it will be highlighted the ability of the model to naturally capture the transition to a fully saturated condition and to deal with possible mechanical instabilities in the unsaturated regime. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An innovative approach to identify the IP address in denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks based on Cauchy's integral theorem
Authors: Viana Mateus Mosca , Rios Riverson , de Castro Andrade Rossana Maria , de Souza José Neuman
Published: November 2008

Denial‐of‐service (DoS) and distributed denial‐of‐service (DDoS) are two of the most severe attacks against computer networks, especially the Internet. Despite its destructive effect, planning these attacks is a feasible task. Given that most attackers usually spoof the source address in packet headers, countermeasures can be based on two steps. First of all, some information from the attack space of the offender must be gathered. Fortunately, packets that reach a victim carry important data that can be acquired by means of a data collection process. One possibility is to use the probabilistic packet marking (PPM) approach for data acquisition. Once this is achieved, the next step consists of reconstructing the attack path, which can be carried out by several methods available in the literature. However, none of them provides a precise solution. In this paper, a new theoretical tracking model for the identification of DoS attackers is presented. The model unites the PPM approach and the concept of winding number, derived from the well‐known Cauchy's integral theorem. The winding number is a hydraulic analogy of the amount of attacking packets growing from a router. A suitable transformation allows seeing the packet traffic, in the attack environment, as a fluid flux in the space of complex variables. The method of solving the tracking problem and identifying the sources of attack presents an additional motivation: the use of continuous techniques when approaching a problem that occurs in a discrete environment. Such association will contribute to the development of further solutions possibly more robust than the one dealt with here. This paper shows that the new model can correctly identify the IP address of the router from which the attack comes by using an integral equation derived from the winding number expression. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paraneoplastic gastro‐intestinal anti‐Hu syndrome in neuroblastoma
Authors: Drukker C.A.M. , Heij H.A. , Wijnaendts L.C.D. , Verbeke J.I.M.L. , Kaspers G.J.L.
Published: November 2008

The anti‐Hu syndrome is a well‐known paraneoplastic syndrome and may be rarely seen in patients with neuroblastoma. However, it is relatively unknown that anti‐Hu antibodies can cause gastro‐intestinal signs and symptoms. We report on a child with neuroblastoma who presented with gastro‐intestinal disturbances as a result of the anti‐Hu syndrome and summaries two similar case reports reported in literature. Neuroblastoma patients with gastro‐intestinal disturbances, ranging from constipation to a paralytic ileus, might suffer from the gastro‐intestinal anti‐Hu syndrome. The causative antibodies can be determined to diagnose or exclude this syndrome, and successful treatment is possible. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:396–398. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High‐risk childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia in China: Factors influencing the treatment and outcome
Authors: Luo Xue‐Qun , Ke Zhi‐Yong , Huang Li‐Bin , Guan Xiao‐Qing , Zhang Ying‐Chuan , Zhang Xiao‐Li
Published: November 2008

Objective

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with high‐risk features has an inferior outcome. Factors influencing the treatment and outcome of pediatric ALL with high‐risk features in developing countries have not been well studied.

Methods

High‐risk features were defined as: age <1 year or >10 years, white blood cell (WBC) > 50 × 109/L, CNS or testicular involvement at diagnosis, T‐ALL, BCR‐ABL/MLL‐AF4, poor prednisone response, slow early response to induction chemotherapy which was defined as M3 status (>25% blasts) on day 15 bone marrow with age >6 years or presenting WBC > 20 × 109/L at diagnosis and/or non‐remission (NR) after 33 days of induction therapy.

Results

Ninety‐one children were analyzed. The total rate of treatment abandonment was 24.2% and treatment‐related mortality was 3.3% (3/91). The event‐free survival (EFS) was 52.3% (95% CI, 41.5–63.1%) at 4 years and 49.9% (95% CI, 38.9–60.9%) at 8 years, respectively. When the cases who abandoned treatment were excluded, the EFS of the remainder was 68.3% (95% CI, 56.5–80.1%) at 4 years and 65.2% (95% CI, 52.5–77.9%) at 8 years, respectively. NR on day 33 or BCR‐ABL remained as an independent unfavorable prognostic factor in the Cox model even if more intense chemotherapy was administrated.

Conclusion

A decreased treatment‐related death frequency was associated with an improved outcome of leukemia. This emphasizes the importance of improving supportive care in developing countries for children with high‐risk ALL who receive very intensive chemotherapy. Treatment abandonment remains a prominent reason for treatment failure in China. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:191–195. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Additional genetic risk factor for death in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A common polymorphism of the MTHFR gene
Authors: Pietrzyk Jacek J. , Bik‐Multanowski Miroslaw , Balwierz Walentyna , Skoczen Szymon , Wojcik Dorota , Chybicka Alicja , Sikorska‐Fic Barbara , Matysiak Michal , Szczepanski Tomasz , Sonta‐Jakimczyk Danuta , Ploszynska Anna , Balcerska Anna , Mycko Katarzyna , Bodalski Jerzy , Krawczuk‐Rybak Maryna , Kowalczyk Jerzy , Koltan Andrzej , Sobol Grazyna , Derwich Katarzyna , Kwinta Przemko
Published: November 2008

Background

The presence of metabolically important genetic polymorphisms may affect treatment efficacy in patients with malignancies. The objective of this prospective multicenter study was to evaluate the role of selected polymorphisms of genes associated with metabolism of chemotherapeutic drugs as prognostic markers in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Procedure

Genotyping for the presence of 7 genetic variants in 403 patients and analysis of death cases were performed.

Results

Thirty‐one children died before reaching remission maintenance phase. Genetic analysis revealed in this group increased frequency of homozygosity for c.677C>T polymorphism of the MTHFR gene (26% vs. 8% in the survivors; OR 4.09; 95% CI 1.67–10; adjusted for multiple testing P = 0.028).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that modification of anti‐leukemic treatment should be considered in patients homozygous for c.677C>T polymorphism. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:364–368. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phase I study of paclitaxel with standard dose ifosfamide in children with refractory solid tumors: A Pediatric Oncology Group study (POG 9376)
Authors: Geller James I. , Wall Donna , Perentesis John , Blaney Susan M. , Bernstein Mark
Published: November 2008

Purpose

A dose‐escalation Phase I study of taxol (paclitaxel) administered in combination with standard dose ifosfamide was conducted in children with relapsed or refractory solid tumors. Primary objectives were to estimate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and to describe the dose‐limiting toxicities (DLTs).

Patients and Methods

Paclitaxel was administered as a 6‐hr continuous infusion (hr 0–6), followed by intravenous ifosfamide (2 g/m2/day × 3 days) over 1 hr at hours 6–7, 24–25, and 48–49. Patients at dose level 1 received 250 mg/m2 paclitaxel. Subsequent dose escalation proceeded using a standard 3 × 3 Phase I design.

Results

Fifteen patients received a combined 46 courses of therapy. The median age was 14.5 years (range, 2–19 years), and diagnoses included sarcoma (7), neuroblastoma (3), and other (5). Three patients received paclitaxel at 250 mg/m2 (10 courses), six at 325 mg/m2 (19 courses), three at 425 mg/m2 (8 courses), and three at 550 mg/m2 (9 courses). DLTs occurred in 2/3 patients at 550 mg/m2 paclitaxel during cycle 1, including grade 3 hypotension and grade 4 anaphylaxis in 1 patient each. Common non‐dose‐limiting toxicities included bone marrow suppression and peripheral neuropathy. Response was evaluable in 14 patients and included mixed response (3), stable disease (5), and progressive disease (6).

Conclusion

Paclitaxel hypersensitivity reactions were dose limiting when the drug was administered as a 6‐hr infusion. The MTD and recommended Phase II dose of paclitaxel administered as a 6‐hr continuous intravenous infusion followed by standard dose intravenous ifosfamide is 425 mg/m2 paclitaxel. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:346–350. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Successful treatment of central nervous system juvenile xanthogranulomatosis with cladribine
Authors: Rajendra Barathi , Duncan Alison , Parslew Richard , Pizer Barry L.
Published: November 2008

Juvenile xanthogranulomatosis (JXG) is an uncommon histiocytic disease that is usually limited to the skin. Here we describe an infant with systemic JXG including a central nervous system (CNS) lesion. He was initially treated with prednisolone and vinblastine but developed an idiosyncratic reaction to prednisolone that was discontinued. The lesion then failed to respond to vinblastine monotherapy. Treatment with cladribine (2‐chlorodeoxyadenosine) was subsequently successful with radiological resolution of the CNS lesion. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:413–415. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transient myeloproliferation mimicking JMML associated with parvovirus infection of infancy
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Gupta Ritu , Bakhshi Sameer
Published: November 2008

We report a 2‐month‐old infant with Parvovirus B19 infection presenting as transient myeloproliferation resembling juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). Patient history, physical examination, and laboratory findings were suggestive of JMML. On viral serology, raised IgM and IgG titers for Parvovirus B19 infection were found in the absence of giant proerythroblasts and viral inclusions in the erythroid precursors. Follow‐up showing a decrease in viral titers suggested parvovirus infection as an etiological factor for the development of myeloproliferative features. This case highlights the importance of viral serology in work‐up myeloproliferative disorders of infancy and childhood. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:411–413. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined QM/MM mechanistic study of the acylation process in furin complexed with the H5N1 avian influenza virus hemagglutinin's cleavage site
Authors: Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Decha Panita , Sompornpisut Pornthep , Malaisree Maturos , Intharathep Pathumwadee , Nunthaboot Nadtanet , Udommaneethanakit Thanyarat , Aruksakunwong Ornjira , Hannongbua Supot
Published: November 2008

Combined quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) techniques have been applied to investigate the detailed reaction mechanism of the first step of the acylation process by furin in which the cleavage site of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus subtype H5N1 (HPH5) acts as its substrate. The energy profile shows a simultaneous mechanism, known as a concerted reaction, of the two subprocesses: the proton transfer from Ser368 to His194 and the nucleophilic attack on the carbonyl carbon of the scissile peptide of the HPH5 cleavage site with a formation of tetrahedral intermediate (INT). The calculated energy barrier for this reaction is 16.2 kcal·mol−1 at QM/MM B3LYP/6‐31+G*//PM3‐CHARMM22 level of theory. Once the reaction proceeds, the ordering of the electrostatic stabilization by protein environment is of the enzyme‐substrate < transition state < INT complexes. Asp153 was found to play the most important role in the enzymatic reaction by providing the highest degree of intermediate complex stabilization. In addition, the negatively charged carbonyl oxygen of INT is well stabilized by the oxyanion hole constructed by Asn295's carboxamide and Ser368's backbone. Proteins 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Does sustainability count? Environmental policy, sustainable development and the governance of grassroots sustainability enterprise in Ireland
Authors: Davies Anna Ray
Published: November 2008

Environmentally focused social economy activities have been identified as archetypal examples of sustainable development: what might be called grassroots sustainability enterprises. The economic, social and environmental benefits that they can offer have been alluded to, but little empirical evaluation has been conducted examining the governing conditions under which they emerge or the impacts they engender. In response this paper investigates the experiences of one arena of grassroots sustainability enterprise in Ireland, community based recycling organizations (CBROs). The research found that the tripartite focus of CBROs on economic development, environmental enhancement and social capacity building can be problematic rather than bringing enhanced status. Building on an analysis of national planning documents it is proposed that such problems emerge as dominant governing conditions are pursuing ecological modernization and social partnership as distinct rather than integrated pathways of development. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
LAID: a learning automata‐based scheme for intrusion detection in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Misra Sudip , Abraham Kiran Isaac , Obaidat Mohammad S. , Krishna P. Venkata
Published: November 2008

In this paper, we address the problem of intrusion detection in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) using a learning automata (LA)‐based approach. We are not aware of any LA‐based intrusion detection systems (IDSs) for WSN. Additionally, the S‐model approach that we have taken to solve the problem, wherein the feedback of the environment to the automaton can not only be completely favorable or completely unfavorable, but also be any continuous value within these extremities, makes it one of the attractive solution approaches in LA. We have rigorously evaluated the performance of our proposed solution by performing a variety of experiments and have found our solution approach to be promising. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DynaQoS©‐RDF: a best effort for QoS‐assurance of dynamic reconfiguration of dataflow systems
Authors: Li Wei
Published: November 2008

The significance of QoS‐assurance is being increasingly recognized by both the research and wider communities. In the latter case, this recognition is driven by the increasing adoption by business of 24/7 software systems and the QoS decline that end‐users experience when these systems undergo dynamic reconfiguration. At the beginning of 2006, the author set up a project named DynaQoS©‐RDF (QoS‐assurance of Dynamic Reconfiguration on Reconfigurable Dataflow Model), which was then sponsored by the CQ University Australia. Over the last two years, the author has investigated QoS‐assurance for dataflow systems, which are characterized by the pipe‐and‐filter architecture. The research has addressed issues such as: the global consistency of protocol transactions, the necessary and sufficient conditions for QoS‐assurance, execution overhead control for reconfiguration, state transfer for stateful components, and the design of a QoS benchmark. This paper discusses these research issues. It also proposes various QoS strategies and presents a benchmark for evaluating QoS‐assurance strategies for the dynamic reconfiguration of dataflow systems. This benchmark is implemented using the DynaQoS©‐RDF v1.0 software platform. Various strategies, including those from the research literature are benchmarked, and the best efforts for QoS‐assurance are identified. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Diacylglycerol on Postprandial Serum Triacylglycerol Concentration: A Meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Tongcheng , Li Xia , Ma Xiaohang , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhang Tiansong , Li Duo
Published: November 2008

Diacylglycerol (DAG) supplementation has been shown to be associated with the reduction of postprandial triacylglycerol (TAG) concentration, although the extent of the association is uncertain. We quantitatively examined the effect of dietary DAG on postprandial serum TAG concentration by conducting a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Potential papers were initially searched for in the electronic databases of Medline, Embase and Cochrane library. Inclusion criteria required the trial to be randomized with DAG as the treatment group, and TAG as the control group. Information was extracted independently by two investigators and the effect of DAG on postprandial TAG concentration was examined in Review Manager 4.2. Seven papers were included in the statistic pooling. DAG supplementation reduced the increment of postprandial TAG concentration significantly at postprandial 2 h (Weighted mean difference (WMD) −0.07 mmol/L; 95% CI −0.13 to 0.00 mmol/L; P = 0.05), 4 h (WMD −0.15 mmol/L; 95% CI −0.24 to −0.06 mmol/L; P = 0.002) and 6 h (WMD −0.14 mmol/L; 95% CI −0.23 to −0.05 mmol/L; P = 0.002). Linear regression showed that the effect of DAG was positively correlated with the daily dosage at 2 h (P = 0.095) and 6 h (P = 0.053) after lipid loading. In conclusion, compared with TAG oil, DAG reduced the postprandial serum TAG concentration at 2 h, 4 h and 6 h postprandial and was positively correlated with daily dosage.
Crystallization Kinetics of Cocoa Fat Systems: Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Padar S. , Jeelani S. A. K. , Windhab E. J.
Published: November 2008

Isothermal crystallization kinetics of unseeded and seeded cocoa butter and milk chocolate is experimentally investigated under quiescent conditions at different temperatures in terms of the temporal increase in the solid fat content. The theoretical equations of Avrami based on one‐, two‐ and three‐dimensional crystal growth are tested with the experimental data. The equation for one‐dimensional crystal growth represents well the kinetics of unseeded cocoa butter crystallization of form α and β′. This is also true for cocoa butter crystal seeded milk chocolate. The sterical hindrance due to high solids content in chocolate restricts crystallization to lineal growth. In contrast, the equation for two‐dimensional crystal growth fits best the seeded cocoa butter crystallization kinetics. However, a transition from three‐ to one‐dimensional growth kinetics seems to occur. Published data on crystallization of a single component involving spherulite crystals are represented well by Avrami’s three‐dimensional theoretical equation. The theoretical equations enable the determination of the fundamental crystallization parameters such as the probability of nucleation and the number density of nuclei based on the measured crystal growth rate. This is not possible with Avrami’s approximate equation although it fits the experimental data well. The crystallization can be reasonably well defined for single component systems. However, there is no model which fits the multicomponent crystallization processes as observed in fat systems.
Long-term plant stanol and sterol ester-enriched functional food consumption, serum lutein/zeaxanthin concentration and macular pigment optical density
Authors: Berendschot Tos T. J. M. , Plat Jogchum , de Jong Ariënne , Mensink Ronald P.
Published: November 2008

Observational epidemiological studies have shown that low carotenoid intake and/or low carotenoid blood levels increase the risk of degenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration. Functional foods enriched with plant sterol or stanol esters may lower serum concentrations of fat-soluble carotenoids. Theoretically, as a result the macular pigment optical density (MPOD), a marker for eye health, may change. We carried out a double-blind placebo-controlled human intervention trial with a duration of 18 months to evaluate the possible effects of plant stanol and sterol esters on serum lutein/zeaxanthin concentration in relation to the MPOD. Forty-seven subjects were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment groups: margarine without added plant sterols or stanols, plant sterol-enriched margarine, or plant stanol-enriched margarine. Serum cholesterol and lutein/zeaxanthine concentrations and the MPOD were evaluated at baseline and at study end. Changes in lipid-adjusted serum lutein/zeaxanthine concentrations between baseline and study end differed significantly between the three groups (P = 0·001). We found no differences in the MPOD between the three treatment groups, despite the differences in both absolute and cholesterol-standardized serum lutein/zeaxanthine concentrations. This shows that the observed reduction in serum carotenoid concentrations during 18 months consumption of these functional foods does not affect MPOD.
Why almost all moral critique of theodicies is misplaced
Authors: SØVIK ATLE O.
Published: November 2008

Much moral critique of theodicies is misplaced. Firstly, much of the critique begs the question because it presupposes something else to be true than what the theodicy claims; had the theodicy been true, it would not be immoral. Secondly, much of the moral critique shows situations where theodicies are inappropriate, and argues that they should never be communicated because of these situations. But if a theory is true, there will be some situations where it is appropriate to communicate it, and others where it is not. This is no basis for a moral dismissal of the theory.
Do the demographics of theistic belief disconfirm theism? A reply to Maitzen
Authors: MARSH JASON
Published: November 2008

In his article entitled ‘Divine hiddenness and the demographics of theism’ (Religious Studies, 42 (2006), 177–191), Stephen Maitzen draws our attention to an important feature that is often overlooked in discussion about the argument from divine hiddenness (ADH). His claim is that an uneven distribution of theistic belief (and not just the mere existence of non-belief) provides an atheological challenge that cannot likely be overcome. After describing what I take to be the most pressing feature of the problem, I argue that a hidden premise causes Maitzen to overlook a Molinist solution. The upshot is a softening of the atheological import of the demographic data.
Questionnaires for eliciting evaluation data from users of interactive question answering systems
Authors: KELLY D. , KANTOR P. B. , MORSE E. L. , SCHOLTZ J. , SUN Y.
Published: November 2008

Evaluating interactive question answering (QA) systems with real users can be challenging because traditional evaluation measures based on the relevance of items returned are difficult to employ since relevance judgments can be unstable in multi-user evaluations. The work reported in this paper evaluates, in distinguishing among a set of interactive QA systems, the effectiveness of three questionnaires: a Cognitive Workload Questionnaire (NASA TLX), and Task and System Questionnaires customized to a specific interactive QA application. These Questionnaires were evaluated with four systems, seven analysts, and eight scenarios during a 2-week workshop. Overall, results demonstrate that all three Questionnaires are effective at distinguishing among systems, with the Task Questionnaire being the most sensitive. Results also provide initial support for the validity and reliability of the Questionnaires.
Relationship between fish intake, n-3 fatty acids, mercury and risk markers of CHD (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2002)
Authors: Smith Kimberly M , Barraj Leila M , Kantor Mark , Sahyoun Nadine R
Published: November 2008

Background

Fish consumption has been shown to be inversely associated with CHD, which may be due to n-3 fatty acids. The n-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, are naturally found only in marine sources. Dietary intakes of methylmercury from certain fish have been hypothesized to increase the risk of CHD.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between 30 d fish frequency consumption (assessed by FFQ), total blood Hg concentrations and risk markers of CHD in women aged 16–49 years participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2002.

Design

Multiple linear regression analyses were used to test (i) the relationships between 30 d fish frequency consumption and five CHD risk markers, i.e. HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, TAG and C-reactive protein (CRP); and (ii) if total blood Hg attenuated any associations between fish consumption and CHD risk markers in non-pregnant, non-diabetic females aged 16–49 years.

Results

Total 30 d fish frequency consumption was negatively associated with CRP (b = −0·10, 95 % CI −0·19, −0·02, P = 0·015) and positively associated with HDL-C (b = 1·40, 95 % CI 0·31, 2·50, P = 0·014). Adjustment for other risk factors did not significantly attenuate the associations. Despite the collinearity between fish and Hg, there is a protective association between fish intake and CHD risk factors.

Conclusions

The levels of DHA + EPA and other nutrients in fish may be adequate to offset the hypothesized risks of heart disease related to ingesting Hg from fish.
Contribution of fish to intakes of micronutrients important for fetal development: a dietary survey of pregnant women in the Republic of Seychelles
Authors: Bonham Maxine P , Duffy Emeir M , Robson Paula J , Wallace Julie M , Myers Gary J , Davidson Philip W , Clarkson Tom W , Shamlaye Conrad F , Strain JJ , Livingstone M Barbara E
Published: November 2008

Objectives

To characterise the diets of pregnant women in the Republic of Seychelles and to determine the contribution of fish to intakes of nutrients important for fetal and neonatal development.

Design

Observational, prospective study.

Setting

Seychelles Child Development Centre, Mahé, Republic of Seychelles.

Subjects and methods

Pregnant women (n 300) were recruited at their first visit to an antenatal clinic. At 28 weeks’ gestation subjects completed a 4 d diet diary (n 273) and intakes were analysed using dietary analysis software.

Results

Mean (sd) energy intake was 9·0 (2·5) MJ/d and fat intakes were higher than UK recommendations for almost two-thirds of the cohort. Fish consumption was lower than in previous surveys, suggesting a move towards a more Westernised diet. Low intakes of a number of nutrients important during pregnancy for fetal development (Fe, Zn, Se and iodine) were observed. However, women who met the current recommendations for these nutrients consumed significantly more fish than those who did not (97 v. 73 g/d).

Conclusions

The present study highlights the importance of fish in the diet of pregnant Seychellois women for ensuring adequate intakes of micronutrients important in fetal development. Dietary patterns in Seychelles, however, are in a state of transition, with a move towards a Western-style diet as evidenced by higher fat and lower fish intakes. If these dietary trends continue and fish consumption declines further, micronutrient status may be compromised. These findings suggest caution in establishing public health policies that promote limitation of fish intake during pregnancy.
Comparing diet composition and growth of children living in two limitary Greek islands (Samos and Corfu)
Authors: Grammatikopoulou Maria G , Daskalou Efstratia , Hatzopoulou Margarita , Sourtzinou Loukia , Tsigga Maria
Published: November 2008

Objective

The study aimed to assess differences in dietary intake and growth of pre-schoolers and schoolchildren living in two limitary Greek islands; Samos, situated on the eastern border, and Corfu, situated on the western border.

Design

Cross-sectional two-site study.

Methods

A total of 248 children aged 3–12 years from the two islands participated in the survey. Body weight and height were recorded and Z-scores were calculated. A 3 d food record was collected for each child, computer-analysed and compared with the Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA). Intakes ≤70 % of the RDA were considered inadequate.

Results

The prevalence of overweight in participants from Samos and Corfu was 10·7 % and 6·5 % respectively, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention growth charts. In Corfu, the diet comprised 52 % carbohydrate, 34 % fat and 14 % protein, all different from the composition of the Samian diet (42 % carbohydrate, 39 % fat, 19 % protein; P ≤ 0·05). Inadequacies in micronutrient intake were evident only in the diet of Samos and concerned folate and P of the pre-schoolers and biotin of the school-aged participants. The diet in Corfu was more similar to the overall Mediterranean pattern as well as that of Italian children. Growth and overweight trends in Corfu resembled the ones in Italy, whereas in Samos, similarities were identified with trends from Turkey.

Conclusions

Border areas at a distance from the mainland exhibit different dietary intakes compared with rest of the country; thus when designing nutrition surveys the setting should also include such limitary areas.
Chromatic Aberrations in the Field Evaporation Behavior of Small Precipitates
Authors: Marquis Emmanuelle A. , Vurpillot Francois
Published: November 2008

Artifacts in the field evaporation behavior of small precipitates have limited the accuracy of atom probe tomography analysis of clusters and precipitates smaller than 2 nm. Here, we report on specific observations of reconstruction artifacts that were obtained in case of precipitates with radii less than 10 nm in Al alloys, focusing particularly on a shift that appears in the relative positioning of matrix and precipitate atoms. We show that this chemically dependent behavior, referred to as “chromatic aberration,” is due to the electrostatic field above the emitter and the variations in field evaporation of the elements constituting the precipitates.
Cardiovascular Imaging Using Two-Photon Microscopy
Authors: Scherschel John A. , Rubart Michael
Published: November 2008

Two-photon excitation microscopy has become the standard technique for high resolution deep tissue and intravital imaging. It provides intrinsic three-dimensional resolution in combination with increased penetration depth compared to single-photon confocal microscopy. This article will describe the basic physical principles of two-photon excitation and will review its multiple applications to cardiovascular imaging, including second harmonic generation and fluorescence laser scanning microscopy. In particular, the capability and limitations of multiphoton microscopy to assess functional heterogeneity on a cellular scale deep within intact, Langendorff-perfused hearts are demonstrated. It will also discuss the use of two-photon excitation-induced release of caged compounds for the study of intracellular calcium signaling and intercellular dye transfer.
Near‐surface diagnostics of dripping or delaminating lithosphere
Authors: Göğüş Oğuz H. , Pysklywec Russell N.
Published: November 2008

In various geological regions, it has been postulated that the mantle lithosphere has been thinned or completely removed. Two of the primary removal mechanisms that have been put forward include: (1) delamination, a wholesale peeling away of a coherent block of the mantle lithosphere, and (2) lithospheric “dripping,” viscous Rayleigh‐Taylor instability of the mantle lithosphere. Using computational models, we investigate several near‐surface observables to determine if these may be diagnostic of either (often ambiguous) removal mechanism. Surface topography associated with delamination has a broad region of uplift above the lithospheric gap and a localized and mobile zone of subsidence at the delaminating hinge. With dripping lithosphere, the topographic expression is symmetric and fixed above the downwelling. Delamination of mantle lithosphere is more efficient than dripping for thermal heating of the crust; the onset is more rapid and the elevated temperatures persist longer. The resultant crustal P‐T‐t paths show modest pressure variations and high temperature increases with large‐scale delamination or dripping. Delamination also causes contraction directly above the (migrating) hinge and distal extension. Dripping lithosphere induces superimposed contraction and extension above and symmetric about the viscous instability. For all the observables, if only a portion of the mantle lithosphere is removed by viscous instability (delamination inherently removes all of the mantle lithosphere), the differences between the two removal mechanisms are even more pronounced. With only partial removal of the mantle lithosphere, uppermost mantle lithosphere remains well coupled to the crust, leading to lower surface temperature variations and broad zones of crustal deformation/thickening.