bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proximate and fatty acid composition and cholesterol content of different cuts of guinea fowl meat as affected by cooking method
Authors: Hoffman Louwrens C , Tlhong Tumelo M
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: Poultry is one of the leading meat products in South Africa, and its nutritional composition can be affected by the cut and cooking method. Limited food composition data are available for typical South African poultry products. This study investigated the effect of different cuts and cooking methods on the proximate and fatty acid composition as well as the cholesterol content of guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) meat.

RESULTS: The open‐roasting method produced the highest moisture content for all cuts, and the baking bag method the lowest. The baking bag method resulted in the highest protein content. Cooking method had no effect on fat content, although breast had the lowest and thigh the highest fat content. Ash content was highest in the open‐roasted drumstick. All cuts, regardless of cooking method, had a favourable polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid (P/S) ratio (>0.4). Their n‐6/n‐3 ratio was also within the recommended beneficial range (<4:1). Both cooking method and cut affected cholesterol content.

CONCLUSION: Different cuts of guinea fowl vary in proximate and fatty acid composition as well as in cholesterol content, which in turn is affected to varying degrees by cooking method. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Discrimination of the Lactobacillus acidophilus group using sequencing, species‐specific PCR and SNaPshot mini‐sequencing technology based on the recA gene
Authors: Huang Chien‐Hsun , Chang Mu‐Tzu , Huang Mu‐Chiou , Wang Li‐Tin , Huang Lina , Lee Fwu‐Ling
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: To clearly identify specific species and subspecies of the Lactobacillus acidophilus group using phenotypic and genotypic (16S rDNA sequence analysis) techniques alone is difficult. The aim of this study was to use the recA gene for species discrimination in the L. acidophilus group, as well as to develop a species‐specific primer and single nucleotide polymorphism primer based on the recA gene sequence for species and subspecies identification.

RESULTS: The average sequence similarity for the recA gene among type strains was 80.0%, and most members of the L. acidophilus group could be clearly distinguished. The species‐specific primer was designed according to the recA gene sequencing, which was employed for polymerase chain reaction with the template DNA of Lactobacillus strains. A single 231‐bp species‐specific band was found only in L. delbrueckii. A SNaPshot mini‐sequencing assay using recA as a target gene was also developed. The specificity of the mini‐sequencing assay was evaluated using 31 strains of L. delbrueckii species and was able to unambiguously discriminate strains belonging to the subspecies L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus.

CONCLUSION: The phylogenetic relationships of most strains in the L. acidophilus group can be resolved using recA gene sequencing, and a novel method to identify the species and subspecies of the L. delbrueckii and L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus was developed by species‐specific polymerase chain reaction combined with SNaPshot mini‐sequencing. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Truncated moment problems in the class of generalized Nevanlinna functions
Authors: Derkach Vladimir , Hassi Seppo , de Snoo Henk
Published: May 2012

Truncated moment and related interpolation problems in the class of generalized Nevanlinna functions are investigated. General solvability criteria will be established and complete parametrizations of solutions are given. The framework used in the paper allows the treatment of even and odd order problems in a parallel manner. The main new results concern the case where the corresponding Hankel matrix of moments is degenerate. One of the new effects in the indefinite case is that the degenerate moment problem may have infinitely many solutions. However, with a careful application of an indefinite analogue of a step‐by‐step Schur algorithm a complete description of the set of solutions will be obtained.
Customer Satisfaction and Elapsed Time since Purchase as Drivers of Price Knowledge
Authors: Homburg Christian , Koschate‐Fischer Nicole , Wiegner Christian M.
Published: May 2012

This study investigates the influence of customer satisfaction and elapsed time since purchase on customers’ explicit and implicit knowledge of price. The results of two large, independent surveys of customers who purchased a consumer durable good indicate that customer satisfaction and elapsed time have different effects on explicit versus implicit price knowledge. Customer satisfaction has a negative impact on explicit price knowledge, but no substantial effect on implicit price knowledge. The length of time between purchase and retrieval of the price information has a negative impact on explicit price knowledge but no substantial effect on implicit price knowledge. Finally, customer satisfaction has a moderating role, in that the higher the customer satisfaction level, the stronger the negative impact of elapsed time on explicit price knowledge.
Biochemical analysis of cystic fluid in the diagnosis of fetal intra‐abdominal masses
Authors: Lecarpentier Edouard , Dreux Sophie , Blanc Thomas , Schaub Bruno , Ville Yves , Mandelbrot Laurent , Ghoneimi Alaa El , Oury Jean‐François , Muller Françoise
Published: May 2012

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate a biochemical analysis of fluid sampled in utero from fetal abdominal cystic masses.

Methods

A retrospective study of 42 intra‐abdominal cystic masses [ovarian cysts (n = 22), cloaca (n = 8), urodigestive fistulae (n = 4), and urogenital sinuses (n = 8)] was carried out. The control group (n = 30) consisted of fetal urine. Seven biochemical markers were assayed: sodium, estradiol, β2‐microglobulin, total proteins and digestive enzymes, gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase, aminopeptidase M, and intestinal alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme. Outcome of pregnancies and final diagnosis of intra‐abdominal mass were known in all cases.

Results

Biochemical patterns allowed to demonstrate (1) an ovarian origin based on elevated level of estradiol and of total proteins (100% specificity, 100% sensitivity); (2) urodigestive fistula based on the presence of high levels of digestive enzymes (cloaca in female fetuses or recto‐urethral fistula in male fetuses); and (3) a renal origin (urinary pattern with low total proteins and absence of digestive enzymes); however, a biochemical pattern could not differentiate between fetal urogenital sinus and megacystis.

Conclusion

Etiological diagnosis of a fetal cystic abdominal mass could impact both prenatal and postnatal management providing adapted prenatal counseling by a pediatric surgeon in surgically correctable congenital anomalies. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The placental component in early‐onset and late‐onset preeclampsia in relation to fetal growth restriction
Authors: Kovo Michal , Schreiber Letizia , Ben‐Haroush Avi , Gold Eran , Golan Abraham , Bar Jacob
Published: May 2012

Objective

To identify pathological placental differences between early‐onset and late‐onset preeclampsia, in relation to fetal growth restriction (FGR).

Methods

Placentas from patients with preeclampsia were analyzed for lesions of maternal vascular supply consistent with maternal underperfusion and lesions of fetal vascular supply consistent with fetal thrombo‐occlusive disease. Findings were compared between patients who gave birth before 34 weeks (early‐onset preeclampsia) and after 34 weeks (late‐onset preeclampsia).

Results

Compared with the late‐onset group (n = 93), the early‐onset group (n = 37) had higher rates of FGR (62.2% vs 25.8%, P < 0.001) and lesions of maternal vascular supply (95% vs 60%, P < 0.001). Within the early‐onset group, cases with FGR (n = 23) had more lesions of fetal vascular supply (47.8% vs 7%, P = 0.01), with similar high rates of lesions of maternal vascular supply (91% vs 100%) compared with those without FGR. Within the late‐onset preeclampsia group, cases with FGR (n = 24) had higher rates of maternal vascular supply lesions (88% vs 51%, P = 0.003) than those without FGR, but similar rates of fetal vascular supply lesions (25% vs 16%, P = 0.32).

Conclusion

The placental fetal vascular supply lesions in combination with maternal vascular lesions are more dominant in early‐onset preeclampsia with FGR as compared with early‐onset preeclampsia without FGR. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cellulose‐click‐ferrocenes as docking spots for cyclodextrin
Authors: Ritter Helmut , Knudsen Berit , Mondrzik Beate E. , Branscheid Robert , Kolb Ute
Published: May 2012

A novel synthesis of ferrocene‐modified cellulose, prepared from 6‐azido‐6‐deoxy‐cellulose and ethynylferrocene, is presented. The two components were coupled via copper‐catalyzed click‐type cycloaddition under microwave‐assisted conditions. The surface structure of the cellulose derivative was investigated in comparison with that of pure, microcrystalline cellulose using electron microscopy (scanning, transmission and scanning transmission), showing iron atoms of ferrocene as homogeneously distributed particles. They are detectable as clear signals in the energy‐dispersive X‐ray profile. In addition, Rame‐β‐cyclodextrin was supramolecularly attached to cellulose and the complex formed was studied by use of 2D ROESY NMR and dynamic light scattering. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Internet‐based program for coping with cancer: a randomized controlled trial with hematologic cancer patients
Authors: David N. , Schlenker P. , Prudlo U. , Larbig W.
Published: May 2012

Objective

Psychosocial patient care in oncology is no longer limited to the inpatient setting. Outpatient services are in demand. Internet‐based interventions could aid in optimizing service delivery across disciplines. The effectiveness of an Internet‐based program for hematologic cancer patients was tested in a randomized controlled trial under field experimental conditions.

Methods

A 4‐week cognitive‐behavioral program for coping with cancer was offered to hematologic cancer patients online. One hundred eighty‐six registrants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 105) or a waiting list (n = 81). The outcome measures, ‘mental adjustment’ (MAC) and ‘psychological distress’ (BSI), were assessed at registration and after 4 weeks. Patient satisfaction was assessed (ZUF‐8), and complete‐cases and intention‐to‐treat analyses were performed.

Results

At registration, the majority of participants displayed clinically significant distress (BSI) and lacked alternative access concerning psychosocial care. One hundred eleven patients filled out the post questionnaire at 4 weeks. In contrast to the waiting list, the intervention group displayed a significant increase in fighting spirit (d = 0.42; CI 95%, 0.04 to 0.80). The effect was confirmed by intention‐to‐treat analysis (d = 0.33; CI 95%, 0.04 to 0.62). Otherwise, no effects were observed. Patient satisfaction with the program was high.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate the potential efficacy of Internet‐based programs while highlighting their limitations. Future research is needed to clarify and optimize efficacy, taking different program components and patient characteristics into particular consideration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In‐Situ Observation of Cracks in Frozen Soil using Synchrotron Tomography
Authors: Bhreasail Á. Ní , Lee P. D. , O'Sullivan C. , Fenton C. H. , Hamilton R. , Rockett P. , Connolley T.
Published: May 2012

Phase‐contrast synchrotron micro‐computed tomography (μCT) is well suited to studying the microstructure of frozen soil. To take advantage of the high‐resolution three‐dimensional images that can be generated using μCT, a specialised in‐situ rig was designed and commissioned. This miniature temperature‐controlled oedometer is capable of controlling soil sample thermal gradients and applying uniaxial deformation while measuring stress. This system was used to apply repeated freeze‐thaw cycles to water‐saturated samples of Leighton Buzzard sand, Reigate sand and spherical glass ballotini (an idealised soil). High‐resolution images were obtained using a monochromatic, parallel beam of x‐rays generated on Beamline I12 of the Diamond synchrotron. Cracking in the ice was directly measured utilising the phase‐contrast fringes generated by ice‐air interfaces. Examination of these images revealed two modes of crack formation in the ice phase of frozen soil: micro‐cracks between soil particles, and longer, well‐developed cracks that follow along ice‐soil particle boundaries and span across the ice between particles. Both crack types were orientated parallel to the freezing front (normal to the heat flow), affecting both the frozen soils' mechanical behaviour, and we hypothesise that these cracks are potential initiation sites for ice lens development. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of electrospray ionization ion‐trap tandem mass spectrometry and principal component analysis to directly distinguish monosaccharides
Authors: Xia Bing , Zhou Yan , Liu Xin , Xiao Juan , Liu Qing , Gu Yucheng , Ding Lisheng
Published: May 2012

RATIONALE

Carbohydrates are good source of drugs and play important roles in metabolism processes and cellular interactions in organisms. Distinguishing monosaccharide isomers in saccharide derivates is an important and elementary work in investigating saccharides. It is important to develop a fast, simple and direct method for this purpose, which is described in this study.

METHODS

Stock solutions of monosaccharide with a concentration of 400 μM and sodium chloride at a concentration of 10 μM were made in water/methanol (50:50, v/v). The samples were subjected to electrospray ionization ion‐trap tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) and the detected [2M + Na – H2O]+ ions were further investigated by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), followed by applying principal component analysis (PCA) on the obtained MS/MS data sets.

RESULTS

The MS/MS spectra of the [2M + Na – H2O]+ ions at m/z 365 for hexoses and m/z 305 for pentoses yielded unambiguous fragment patterns, while rhamnose can be directly identified by its ESI‐MS [M + Na]+ ion at m/z 187. PCA showed clustering of MS/MS data of identical monosaccharide samples obtained from different experiments. By using this method, the monosaccharide in daucosterol hydrolysate was successfully identified.

CONCLUSIONS

A new strategy was developed for differentiation of the monosaccharides using ESI‐MS/MS and PCA. In MS/MS spectra, the [2M + Na – H2O]+ ions yielded unambiguous distinction. PCA of the archived MS/MS data sets was applied to demonstrate the spatial resolution of the studied samples. This method presented a simple and reliable way for distinguishing monosaccharides by ESI‐MS/MS. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ozonation of the food dye Brilliant Blue in aqueous medium: monitoring and characterization of products by direct infusion electrospray ionization coupled to high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: da Silva Júlio César Cardoso , Bispo Glayson Leonardo , Pavanelli Sérgio Pinton , de Cássia Franco Afonso Robson José , Augusti Rodinei
Published: May 2012

RATIONALE

Dyes have been widely used to accentuate or to provide different colors to foods. However, the high concentrations of dyes in effluents from the food industries can cause serious and unpredictable damages to aquatic life in general. Furthermore, since conventional biological treatments have been shown to be ineffective, the use of advanced oxidation processes to promote the depletion of such dyes in water bodies has turned out to be mandatory.

METHODS

The degradation of the food dye Brilliant Blue by ozone in aqueous solution is reported herein. The overall process was monitored in real time by using direct infusion electrospray ionization high‐resolution mass spectrometry in the negative ion mode, ESI(−)‐HRMS.

RESULTS

Preliminary results (visual inspection and UV–vis spectra) showed the high efficiency of ozonation in causing the decoloration of an aqueous solution of the dye whereas TOC (total organic carbon) measurements revealed that such an oxidation process was unable to promote its complete mineralization. ESI(−)‐HRMS data showed that the substrate consumption occurred concomitantly with the appearance of four by‐products, all of them produced by an initial attack of hydroxyl radicals (generated via the decomposition of ozone) on the two imino moieties of the dye molecule. Structures were proposed for all the by‐products based mainly on the high‐resolution mass measurements and on the characteristic reactivity of typical functional groups towards hydroxyl radicals. An unprecedented degradation route of Brilliant Blue by ozone in aqueous solution could thus be proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

A greater ecotoxicity against Artemia salina was observed for the by‐products than for the original dye. This indicates that the identification of by‐products arising from oxidation treatments is of primary importance since such compounds can be more hazardous than the precursor itself. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is quantitative chemical derivatization XPS of plasma deposited organic coatings a valid analytical procedure?
Authors: Girard‐Lauriault Pierre‐Luc , Dietrich Paul , Gross Thomas , Unger Wolfgang E. S.
Published: May 2012

Functionalized organic layers prepared by plasma processes have complex surface chemistries. The problem of elucidating such chemistries is an extensively studied subject. One of the preponderant methods used to acquire information on specific functional groups is chemical derivatization XPS. In this communication, we focus on rather popular chemical derivatization XPS approaches, for instance, the quantification of amines with 4‐trifluoromethyl benzaldehyde and of hydroxyl groups with trifluoroacetic anhydride. Although these procedures have been used for a long period by various laboratories, the use of varying protocols is obvious. Comparison of results is therefore difficult. We discuss steps toward a valid experimental procedure, in particular, the calculation of concentrations, the preparation of test samples, the pitfalls, and the shortcomings. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TiN/STO/TiN MIMcaps nanolayers on silicon characterized by SIMS and AFM
Authors: Barozzi M. , Iacob E. , van den Berg J.A. , Reading M.A. , Adelmann C. , Popovici M. , Tielens H , Bersani M.
Published: May 2012

High‐k dielectrics as SrxTi1‐xOy (STO) are of great interest for the development of dynamic random access memory devices. The characterization of these nanolayers is important. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) depth profiling through TiN and STO films is affected by strong artifacts in different ways. The erosion process causes surface topography modifications both in the TiN/STO/TiN layer system and in the silicon substrate. Atomic force microscopy analyses have been carried out on pristine TiN and STO film surfaces and at various crater depths. Very different roughness evolutions are identified for TiN or STO films, within the SIMS craters sputtered with 500 eV Cs+ while using eucentric stage rotation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of data fusion applied to health monitoring of wind turbine drivetrain components
Authors: Dempsey Paula J. , Sheng Shuangwen
Published: May 2012

The research described was performed with diagnostic tools used to detect damage to dynamic mechanical components in a wind turbine gearbox. Different monitoring technologies were evaluated by collecting vibration and oil‐debris data from tests performed on both a ‘healthy’ gearbox and a damaged gearbox that were mounted on a dynamometer test stand at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The damaged gearbox tested had been removed from the field after it experienced component damage because of two events that resulted in the loss of oil. The gearbox was re‐tested under controlled conditions by using the NREL dynamometer test stand. Preliminary results indicate that oil‐debris and vibration data can be integrated to improve the assessment of the health of the wind turbine gearbox. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of the Interface Between Retroperitoneal Fat Infiltration of Pancreatic Ductal Carcinoma and the Major Artery by Multidetector‐Row Computed Tomography: Surgical Outcomes and Correlation with Histopathological Extension
Authors: Yamamoto Yusuke , Shimada Kazuaki , Takeuchi Yoshito , Sofue Keitaro , Shibamoto Kentaro , Nara Satoshi , Esaki Minoru , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Kosuge Tomoo , Hiraoka Nobuyoshi
Published: May 2012

Background

Precise assessment of retroperitoneal invasion is clinically important to allow the achievement of negative margin resections.

Methods

The clinical records of 132 patients who underwent macroscopic curative pancreaticoduodenectomy for invasive ductal carcinoma of the pancreas between 2004 and 2008 were retrospectively examined. The clinicopathological factors, including retroperitoneal fat infiltration classified into four groups by multidetector‐row computed tomography (MDCT), were analyzed. The relationship between the grade of retroperitoneal fat infiltration and surgical outcomes, as well as various histopathological factors, was also investigated.

Results

The 5 year survival rate was 55.6 % for grade 0 infiltration (n = 8), 38.7 % for grade 1 (n = 54), 16.4 % for grade 2 (n = 49), and 0 % for grade 3 (n = 21). There were significant differences in survival in each group. Extrapancreatic nerve invasion and the surgical margin status were significantly associated with retroperitoneal fat infiltration demonstrated on MDCT. According to the grading classification among the 43 patients with pathological portal vein invasion, the 5 year survival rate was 45.9 % for patients with grade 1, which was significantly better survival that those with grade 2 (P = 0.007).

Conclusion

The grading criteria for retroperitoneal fat infiltration may be useful as a predictor of survival after pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic head carcinoma. Pancreaticoduodenectomy with portal vein resection could provide favorable survival in patients with grade 1 retroperitoneal fat infiltration, even if histopathological portal vein invasion is present.
Tsukamurella sp. E105 as a new biocatalyst for highly enantioselective hydrolysis of ethyl 2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl) butyrate
Authors: He Junyao , Yuan Shuai , Wang Pu , Wang Nengqiang
Published: May 2012

A new bacterial strain, E105, has been introduced as a biocatalyst for the enantioselective hydrolysis of ethyl (R,S)-2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl) butyrate, (R,S)-1, to (S)-2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl) butyric acid, (S)-2. This strain was isolated from 60 soil samples using (R,S)-1 as the sole carbon source. The isolate was identified as Tsukamurella tyrosinosolvens E105, based on its morphological characteristics, physiological tests, and 16S rDNA sequence analysis. The process of cell growth and hydrolase production for this strain was then investigated. The hydrolase activity reached its maximum after cultivation at 200 rpm and 30 °C for 36 h. Furthermore, the performance of the enantioselective hydrolysis of (R,S)-1 was studied. The optimal reaction temperature, initial pH, substrate concentration, and concentration of suspended cells were 30 °C, 6.8, 10 and 30 g/l (DCW), respectively. Under these conditions, a high conversion (>45 %) of the product (S)-2 with an excellent enantiomeric excess (ee) (>99 %), and a satisfied enantiomeric ratio (E) (>600) as well were obtained. This study showed that the bacterial isolate T. tyrosinosolvens E105 displayed a high enantioselectivity towards the hydrolysis of racemic ethyl 2-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl) butyrate.
Fertility and pregnancy in women affected by glycogen storage disease type I, results of a multicenter Italian study
Authors: Sechi Annalisa , Deroma Laura , Lapolla Annunziata , Paci Sabrina , Melis Daniela , Burlina Alberto , Carubbi Francesca , Rigoldi Miriam , Di Rocco Maja
Published: May 2012

Background

Life expectancy of patients with glycogen storage disease (GSD) type I has improved considerably, opening new problems correlated with adult age. In females polycystic ovaries (PCOs) has been described as frequently associated with the disease, however successful pregnancies have been reported. Whether or not GSD I is associated with impaired reproductive function is still unclear.

Patients and methods

Data about female patients with GSD Ia and Ib, who were 16 years or older, were obtained from clinical records and interviews.

Results

A total of 32 women with GSD I (25 GSD Ia, 7 GSD Ib), median age 26 years (range 16–55), were included. 9/32 patients had delayed menarche, 17/32 had irregular cycles, 8/22 had documented polycystic ovaries. Five successful spontaneous pregnancies in four patients with GSD Ia and two in a woman with GSD Ib were reported. The latter had development and enlargement of hepatic adenomas during pregnancies.

Conclusion

Despite the high prevalence of irregular menstruation cycles and polycystic ovaries, fertility seems not to be impaired in women with GSD I. During pregnancy monitoring for adenoma development is mandatory.
Interactions between frequency and size of disturbance affect competitive outcomes
Authors: Miller Adam , Reilly Dan , Bauman Spenser , Shea Katriona
Published: May 2012

Disturbance has many effects on ecological communities, and it is often suggested that disturbance can affect species diversity by altering competitive outcomes. However, disturbance regimes have many distinct aspects that may act, and interact, to influence species diversity. While there are many theoretical models of disturbance‐prone communities, few have specifically documented how interactions between different aspects of a disturbance regime change competitive outcomes. Here, we present a model of two plant species subject to disturbance which we then use to examine species coexistence over varying levels of two aspects of disturbance: frequency, and spatial extent (i.e., area disturbed). We show that the competitive outcome is affected differently by changes in each aspect and that the effect of disturbance frequency on species coexistence depends strongly on the spatial extent of the disturbance, and vice versa. We classify the nature of these interactions between disturbance frequency and extent on the basis of the shape of the resulting coexistence regions in a frequency–extent parameter plane. Our results illustrate that different types of interaction can result from differences in life‐history traits that control species‐specific sensitivity to frequency and extent of disturbance. Thus, our analysis shows that the various aspects of disturbance must be carefully considered in concert with the life‐history traits of the community members in order to assess the consequences of disturbance.
Novel Amide‐Based Cationic Surfactants as Efficient Corrosion Inhibitors for Carbon Steel in HCl and H2SO4 media
Authors: Yıldırım A. , Öztürk S. , Çetin M.
Published: May 2012

A variety of surface active compounds were synthesized by the quaternization of some straight chain amide derivatives with triethylamine or pyridine. Their structure FT‐IR and 1H‐NMR spectra were recorded. In addition their physical properties and corrosion prevention efficiencies were investigated. All compounds were tested with steel coupons in acidic media by the gravimetric method. As acidic media 1.5 M HCl and 1.5 M H2SO4 were used and the corrosion inhibition tests fulfilled at room temperature for 24 h. Almost all prepared cationic surfactants showed efficient inhibition around their critical micelle concentrations. The effects of HCl concentration on corrosion inhibition of some synthesized compounds were also investigated. The corrosion tests were supported by contact angle measurements.
Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy of Tribochemically Formed Boundary Films of Refined and Unrefined Canola Oils
Authors: Chua Wenhsi , Chapman Peter , Stachowiak Gwidon W.
Published: May 2012

The paper reports the investigation of tribochemically formed boundary films of canola oils using surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy. This is the first time that metallic surfaces lubricated by plant oils have been studied using this technique. The results of this work provided strong evidence that fatty acids were liberated from the triglyceride structure during sliding to form a fatty acid soap layer on the silver surface. The study also revealed that the fatty acid chains of the unrefined canola oil were more disordered and most likely in a gauche conformation, while that of the refined canola oil were tightly packed and oriented perpendicular to the surface. It is believed that the greater presence of polar minor components in the unrefined oil, such as phospholipids, interfered with the ability of free fatty acids to form a tightly packed monolayer on the silver surface.
Chemical Composition and Oxidative Stability of Roasted and Cold Pressed Pumpkin Seed Oils
Authors: Neđeral Sandra , Škevin Dubravka , Kraljić Klara , Obranović Marko , Papeša Sunčica , Bataljaku Antonija
Published: May 2012

In the present study, the effects of three production processes (pressing of roasted pumpkin seed paste, pressing of unroasted ground pumpkin seeds and pressing of unroasted ground pumpkin seeds while cooling the press) on the properties of pumpkin seed oils produced from two seed varieties (husked and naked) were investigated. Oils produced with roasting had a higher initial peroxide value (PV), twofold higher total phenol content and better oxidative stability while cold pressed oils had higher tocopherol content. Fatty acid and triacylglycerol compositions were not significantly affected by the processing conditions. Oxidative stability of the oils positively correlated with oleic acid content and negatively correlated with linoleic and linolenic acid contents. The lack of correlation in oxidative stability with tocopherol and polyphenol contents suggests that improvement in oxidative stability of roasted oils could have been caused by antioxidative Maillard reaction products or inactivation of oil degrading enzymes. In addition, oils produced from husked seeds had significantly higher linoleic acid, triacylglycerols (TAG) containing mainly linoleic acid (LLL, OLL and PLL), tocopherol and phenol contents while oleic acid and TAG containing mainly oleic acid (LOO and OOO) contents and oxidative stability were lower. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the analytical data confirmed the observed differences between oils from two varieties and three production processes.
Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy with endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery — results of the first one hundred patients from a single UK centre
Authors: Awsare Ninaad S , Ghei Maneesh , Rajkumar Vellore , Jones Paul A
Published: May 2012

Objective

To review our experience using combined supine PCNL and simultaneous ureterorenoscopy (ECIRS: endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery) to treat renal calculi.

Patients and methods

Retrospective analysis of operative times, anaesthetic and surgical complications, and stone-free rates in patients who underwent PCNL and ECIRS in the Galdakao Modified Supine Valdivia position at a single centre between September 2007 and November 2011 was undertaken. Outcomes for those patients with BMI > 30 and those with high ASA grade were compared to the remaining patient group.

Results

One hundred patients underwent 103 PCNL procedures. Thirty-one (31%) patients had BMI > 30 while 48 (48%) had ASA grade III or IV. Mean ± S.D. operative time and hospital stay was 111.34 ± 36.92 min and 49.5 ± 18.6 h respectively with no demonstrable increase in either parameter for patients with high ASA grade or BMI. The overall PCNL stone-free rate was 87% with 13 needing a secondary procedure. Six patients had postoperative complications (three transfusions, two post-operative fever and one ITU admission for sepsis).

Conclusions

Supine PCNL incurs minimal anaesthetic morbidity. The GMSV position enables PCNL to be performed in the obese safely with high stone-clearance rates when combined with ECIRS thus decreasing the need for ancillary procedures such as ESWL.
The InnvaDiab-DE-PLAN study: a randomised controlled trial with a culturally adapted education programme improved the risk profile for type 2 diabetes in Pakistani immigrant women
Authors: Telle-Hjellset Victoria , Kjøllesdal Marte K. Råberg , Bjørge Benedikte , Holmboe-Ottesen Gerd , Wandel Margareta , Birkeland Kåre I. , Eriksen Hege R. , Høstmark Arne Torbjørn
Published: May 2012

The objective of the present study was to explore whether a culturally adapted lifestyle education programme would improve the risk factor profile for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) among Pakistani immigrant women in Oslo, Norway. The randomised controlled trial (the InnvaDiab study), lasting 7 ± 1 months, comprised six educational sessions about blood glucose, physical activity and diet. Participants (age 25–62 years) were randomised into either a control (n 97) or an intervention (n 101) group. Primary outcome variables were fasting and 2 h blood glucose, and secondary outcome variables were fasting levels of insulin, C-peptide, lipids, glycated Hb, BMI, waist circumference and blood pressure, measured 1–3 weeks before and after the intervention. During the intervention period, the mean fasting blood glucose decreased by 0·16 (95 % CI − 0·27, − 0·05) mmol/l in the intervention group, and remained unchanged in the control group (difference between the groups, P= 0·022). Glucose concentration 2 h after the oral glucose tolerance test decreased by 0·53 (95 % CI − 0·84, − 0·21) mmol/l in the intervention group, but not significantly more than in the control group. A larger reduction in fasting insulin was observed in the intervention group than in the control group (between-group difference, P= 0·036). Among the individuals who attended four or more of the educational sessions (n 59), we found a more pronounced decrease in serum TAG ( − 0·1 (95 % CI − 0·24, 0·07) mmol/l) and BMI ( − 0·48 (95 % CI − 0·78, − 0·18) kg/m2) compared with the control group. During the intervention period, there was a significant increase in participants having the MetS in the control group (from 41 to 57 %), which was not seen in the intervention group (from 44 to 42 %). Participation in a culturally adapted education programme may improve risk factors for T2D and prevent the development of the MetS in Pakistani immigrant women.
Mere Description
Authors: Gerring John
Published: May 2012

This article attempts to reformulate and resuscitate the seemingly prosaic methodological task of description, which is often derided in favour of causal analysis. First, the problem of definition is addressed: what does this category of analysis (‘description’) refer to? Secondly, a taxonomy of descriptive arguments is offered, emphasizing the diversity contained within this genre of empirical analysis. Thirdly, the demise of description within political science is charted over the past century, with comparisons to other disciplines. Fourthly, it is argued that the task of description ought to be approached independently, not merely as a handmaiden of causal theories. Fifthly, the methodological difficulties of descriptive inference are addressed. Finally, fruitful research areas within the rubric of description are reviewed.
Gustatory changes in patients with chronic otitis media, before and after middle-ear surgery
Authors: Huang C-C , Lin C-D , Wang C-Y , Chen J-H , Shiao Y-T , Tsai M-H
Published: May 2012

Objective:

We investigated gustatory changes in patients with chronic otitis media, before and after middle-ear surgery.

Methods:

This prospective study included 38 patients with unilateral chronic otitis media. We used taste testing solutions to evaluate each patient's taste function. Intra-operative assessments of the chorda tympani nerve were also compared and analysed.

Results:

Patients with chronic otitis media had significantly worse ipsilateral perception of sour, bitter and salty tastes. In patients with good intra-operative preservation of the chorda tympani nerve, there was significant improvement in gustatory function one month post-operatively, compared with the pre-operative baseline. In patients who sustained intra-operative chorda tympani nerve injury, one month post-operative gustatory function was the same as the pre-operative baseline.

Conclusion:

Middle-ear surgery for chronic otitis media not only treats the ear but also improves gustatory function in the majority of patients. In patients with intra-operative injury to the chorda tympani nerve, post-operative taste decline is only temporary.
Towards Sub-TeV electron beams driven by ultra-short, ultra-intense laser pulses
Authors: WANG WEI-MIN , SHENG ZHENG-MING , KAWATA SHIGEO , ZHENG CHUN-YANG , LI YU-TONG , CHEN LI-MING , DONG QUAN-LI , LU XIN , MA JING-LONG , ZHANG JIE
Published: May 2012

Energetic electron beam generation from a thin foil target by the ponderomotive force of an ultra-intense circularly polarized laser pulse is investigated. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations show that laser pulses with intensity of 1022–1023 Wcm−2 generate about 1–10 GeV electron beams, in agreement with the prediction of one-dimensional theory. When the laser intensity is at 1024–1025 Wcm−2, the beam energy obtained from PIC simulations is lower than the values predicted by the theory. The radiation damping effect is considered, which is found to become important for the laser intensity higher than 1025 Wcm−2. The effect of laser focus positions is also discussed.
Linear electrostatic waves in two-temperature electron–positron plasmas
Authors: LAZARUS I. J. , BHARUTHRAM R. , SINGH S. V. , PILLAY S. R. , LAKHINA G. S.
Published: May 2012

Linear electrostatic waves in a magnetized four-component, two-temperature electron–positron plasma are investigated, with the hot species having the Boltzmann density distribution and the dynamics of cooler species governed by fluid equations with finite temperatures. A linear dispersion relation for electrostatic waves is derived for the model and analyzed for different wave modes. Analysis of the dispersion relation for perpendicular wave propagation yields a cyclotron mode with contributions from both cooler and hot species, which in the absence of hot species goes over to the upper hybrid mode of cooler species. For parallel propagation, both electron-acoustic and electron plasma modes are obtained, whereas for a single-temperature electron–positron plasma, only electron plasma mode can exist. Dispersion characteristics of these modes at different propagation angles are studied numerically.
Determining On-Axis Crystal Thickness with Quantitative Position-Averaged Incoherent Bright-Field Signal in an Aberration-Corrected STEM
Authors: Xin Huolin L. , Zhu Ye , Muller David A.
Published: May 2012

An accurate determination of specimen thickness is essential for quantitative analytical electron microscopy. Here we demonstrate that a position-averaged incoherent bright-field signal recorded on an absolute scale can be used to determine the thickness of on-axis crystals with a precision of ±1.6 nm. This method measures both the crystalline and the noncrystalline parts (surface amorphous layers) of the sample. However, it avoids the systematic error resulting from surface plasmon contributions to the inelastic mean-free-path thickness estimated by electron energy loss spectroscopy.
An Improved Visual Tracking Method in Scanning Electron Microscope
Authors: Ru Changhai , Zhang Yong , Huang Haibo , Chen Tao
Published: May 2012

Since their invention, nanomanipulation systems in scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) have provided researchers with an increasing ability to interact with objects at the nanoscale. However, most nanomanipulators that are capable of generating nanometer displacement operate in an open-loop without suitable feedback mechanisms. In this article, a robust and effective tracking framework for visual servoing applications is presented inside an SEM to achieve more precise tracking manipulation and measurement. A subpixel template matching tracking algorithm based on contour models in the SEM has been developed to improve the tracking accuracy. A feed-forward controller is integrated into the control system to improve the response time. Experimental results demonstrate that a subpixel tracking accuracy is realized. Furthermore, the robustness against clutter can be achieved even in a challenging tracking environment.
EuroPsy in Slovenia
Authors: Podlesek Anja , Zabukovec Vlasta
Published: May 2012

EuroPsy – European Certificate in Psychology represents an educational framework and minimum standards for training of psychologists across different European countries. Within this framework, a year of supervised practice is required for entry into independent practice. In Slovenia, supervised practice has not been regulated until now. The paper presents a project which aimed at establishing a mentoring network and developing a model of education program for mentors and students involved either in internship or supervised practice. Steps in the educational process are presented: Acquiring the competence approach and task planning, hands-on activities in practical settings, structured reflection, and assessment of students’ competences and mentors’ role. The project is evaluated and some guidelines for education programs on supervised practice are outlined.
Exhumation and subduction erosion in orogenic wedges: Insights from numerical models
Authors: van Dinther Y. , Morra G. , Funiciello F. , Rossetti F. , Faccenna C.
Published: May 2012

At oceanic margins, syn‐convergent exhumation, subduction erosion, and inter‐plate coupling are intimately related, but ample questions remain concerning their interaction and individual mechanisms. To analyze these interactions for a thick‐skinned, visco‐elastic wedge, we focus on properly modeling stresses, energies, and topographies at the inter‐plate and wedge bounding interfaces using a Coulomb frictional contact algorithm. In this innovative plane‐strain, free surface, Lagrangian finite element model, fault dynamics is modulated by retreating subduction. Subduction is dynamically driven by slab‐pull due to a slab sinking in a semi‐analytic, computationally favorable approximation of three‐dimensional induced mantle flow. Nodal trajectories show that continuous underthrusting of a slab induces a steady state corner flow through forced underplating and subsequent trenchward extrusion due to gravitational spreading. This flow pattern confirms early‐proposed models of syn‐orogenic deep‐seated rock exhumation propelled by coexisting extension and continuous shortening at depth. A distinct reduction in upward flowing material and accompanying decrease of exhumation velocities, to millimeters per year as observed in nature, is induced by a diversion of orogenic wedge material toward the mantle once a subduction channel is formed. The key parameter affecting model evolution and spontaneous formation of a subduction channel is basal friction, which modulates the amount of erosion. However, formation of a subduction channel entrance needs to be ensured through the deformability of the overriding plate, which is influenced by applied pressure at the overriding plate tip and material properties. The down dragging of the overriding plate is sufficient above a threshold inter‐plate shear stress of about 2–7 MPa.
Kelvin‐Helmholtz instabilities at the magnetic cavity boundary of comet 67P/Churyumov‐Gerasimenko
Authors: Rubin M. , Hansen K. C. , Combi M. R. , Daldorff L. K. S. , Gombosi T. I. , Tenishev V. M.
Published: May 2012

We investigate the plasma environment of comet 67P/Churyumov‐Gerasimenko, the target of the European Space Agency's Rosetta mission. Rosetta will rendezvous with the comet in 2014 at almost 3.5 AU and follow it all the way to and past perihelion at 1.3 AU. During its journey towards the inner solar system the comet's environment will significantly change. The interaction of the solar wind with a well developed neutral coma leads to the formation of an upstream bow shock and, closer to the comet, the inner shock separating the solar wind, with cometary pick‐up ions mass‐loaded, from the inner cometary ions which are dragged outward through abundant collisions and charge exchange with the expanding neutral gas. As a consequence the interplanetary magnetic field is prevented from penetrating the innermost region of the comet, the so‐called magnetic cavity. We use our magnetohydrodynamics model BATSRUS (Block‐Adaptive‐Tree‐Solarwind‐Roe‐Upwind‐Scheme) to simulate the solar wind – comet interaction. The model includes photoionization, ion‐electron recombination, and charge exchange. Under certain conditions our model predicts an unstable plasma flow at the inner shock. We show that the plasma shear flow around the magnetic cavity can lead to Kelvin‐Helmholtz instabilities. We investigate the onset of this phenomenon with change of heliocentric distance and furthermore show that a previously stable magnetic cavity boundary can become unstable when the neutral gas is predominately released from the dayside of the comet.
Three‐dimensional P velocity structures of the lithosphere beneath Taiwan from the analysis of TAIGER and related seismic data sets
Authors: Kuo‐Chen Hao , Wu Francis T. , Roecker Steven W.
Published: May 2012

The convergence of the Philippine Sea and the Eurasian plates in the Taiwan region led to the formation of a young collisional mountain between two subduction zones of nearly orthogonal polarities. The geological processes underlying the collision and its relation to subduction are the primary targets of TAIGER (Taiwan Integrated Geodynamic Research) project. Newly acquired passive and active sources data on land, supplemented by ocean bottom as well as permanent seismic network data, are used to derive a new 3‐D tomographic velocity model. Using the 7.5 km/sec contour as a marker for crustal deformation, two trend‐parallel “roots,” one under the Central Range with a maximum depth of 55 km and the other under the Coastal Range at 40 km, are found to extend from southern to central (∼24°N) Taiwan. Between the two roots and lying approximately beneath the Longitudinal Valley, the 7.5 km/sec contour rises to 25 km depth. In the upper mantle, a high velocity zone, east‐dipping and its upper surface coinciding with a Wadati‐Benioff zone in the south (∼22.8°N), becomes near vertical and ill‐defined in the north (∼23.9°N). The crustal deformation as defined by the “roots” and the along‐trend variations of the upper mantle structures under Taiwan provide key information for the orogeny. With the thickening of crust to 55 km or more processes such as eclogitization and delamination may come into play.