bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scale, Factor Analyses, and Neighborhood Effects
Authors: Johnston Ron , Jones Kelvyn , Burgess Simon , Propper Carol , Sarker Rebecca , Bolster Anne
Published: December 2010

Studies of potential neighborhood effects have been constrained in most situations by the absence of small‐area data generated to characterize the local contexts within which individuals operate. Using small‐area data from the U.K. Census, this paper Illustrates the creation of bespoke neighborhoods—local areas defined separately for each individual in a sample survey—at a variety of scales, and their characterization using factor analysis techniques. Theories of neighborhood effects are uncertain as to the spatial scale at which the relevant processes operate, hence the value of exploring patterns consistent with those processes at a range of spatial scales. One problem with such comparative study is the incommensurability of regression coefficients derived from analyses using factor scores as the independent variables. The work reported here adapts a procedure introduced for reconstituting partial regression coefficients to circumvent that problem, and illustrates that patterns of voting at a recent British general election showed neighborhood‐effect‐like patterns at two separate scales simultaneously—with individual voter characteristics held constant.
Energy Choices and Risk Beliefs: Is It Just Global Warming and Fear of a Nuclear Power Plant Accident?
Authors: Greenberg Michael , Truelove Heather Barnes
Published: December 2010

A survey of 3,200 U.S. residents focused on two issues associated with the use of nuclear and coal fuels to produce electrical energy. The first was the association between risk beliefs and preferences for coal and nuclear energy. As expected, concern about nuclear power plant accidents led to decreased support for nuclear power, and those who believed that coal causes global warming preferred less coal use. Yet other risk beliefs about the coal and nuclear energy fuel cycles were stronger or equal correlates of public preferences. The second issue is the existence of what we call acknowledged risk takers, respondents who favored increased reliance on nuclear energy, although also noting that there could be a serious nuclear plant accident, and those who favored greater coal use, despite acknowledging a link to global warming. The pro‐nuclear group disproportionately was affluent educated white males, and the pro‐coal group was relatively poor less educated African‐American and Latino females. Yet both shared four similarities: older age, trust in management, belief that the energy facilities help the local economy, and individualistic personal values. These findings show that there is no single public with regard to energy preferences and risk beliefs. Rather, there are multiple populations with different viewpoints that surely would benefit by hearing a clear and comprehensive national energy life cycle policy from the national government.
To Leave an Area After Disaster: How Evacuees from the WTC Buildings Left the WTC Area Following the Attacks
Authors: Zimmerman Rae , Sherman Martin F.
Published: December 2010

How people leave a devastated area after a disaster is critical to understanding their ability to cope with risks they face while evacuating. Knowledge of their needs for communications about these risks is particularly crucial in planning for emergency responses. A convenience sample of 1,444 persons who survived the World Trade Center (WTC) attacks on September 11, 2001 were surveyed to ascertain their initial and ultimate destinations once they had left the buildings, how they arrived there, the role of types of obstacles they encountered, and the need for information and the seeking of other people as potential factors in influencing the process of leaving immediately. This survey was part of a larger, original survey. Results showed differences in how people traveled by mode to initial and ultimate destinations, how immediately they left the area, and factors associated with when they left. How they traveled and when they left were associated with where people lived, their tendency in times of stress to seek out other people including who they knew in the immediate area (e.g., co‐workers or friends), the physical conditions surrounding them, and the importance to some of waiting for more information. Many people indicated they did not leave immediately because they had no information about where to go or what services would be available to them. Perceptions and communications about risks they were facing were reflected in the choices they considered in how and when to leave the area. These findings have numerous ramifications for understanding and guiding personal behavior in catastrophic situations.
Dialysis patients treated with Epoetin α show improved exercise tolerance and physical function: A new analysis of the Canadian Erythropoietin Study Group trial
Authors: MUIRHEAD Norman , KEOWN Paul A. , CHURCHILL David N. , POULIN‐COSTELLO Melanie , GANTOTTI Sandeep , LEI Lei , GITLIN Matthew , MAYNE Tracy J.
Published: December 2010

The risks/benefits of anemia treatment in dialysis patients have been redefined in the US Epoetin α label. This analysis was carried out to determine if increasing hemoglobin (Hb) levels improve exercise tolerance and physical function in anemic dialysis patients. This is a new analysis of the Canadian Erythropoietin Study Group trial, a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial in dialysis patients. Subjects were 18 to 75 years old, on hemodialysis for >3 months, and had a baseline Hb <9.0 g/dL. Patients with a history of diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease, or severe/uncontrolled hypertension were excluded. Patients were randomized to receive Epoetin α to a target Hb of 9.5 to 11.0 g/dL (n=40) or a target of 11.5 to 13.0 g/dL (n=38), or receive placebo (n=40). Results from patients in the Epoetin‐α–treated arms were combined for this analysis. Hb level, exercise tolerance (Treadmill Stress Test and 6‐Minute Walk Test) and patient‐reported physical function measures (Physical Summary domain from the Kidney Disease Questionnaire, and 4 domains from the Sickness Impact Profile) were reported at baseline and months 2, 4, and 6.

Differences in measures were statistically significant for exercise tolerance (Treadmill Stress, P=0.0001) and patient‐reported physical function (Kidney Disease Questionnaire Physical, P=0.0001; Sickness Impact Profile Physical, P=0.0015) across all time points for Epoetin‐α–treated patients compared with placebo. Improvements were seen at 2 months and were maintained through months 4 and 6. Dialysis patients receiving Epoetin α showed improved exercise tolerance and physical function. These findings should be considered as physicians weigh the risks and benefits of treatment.
Spectrum of skeletal abnormalities in a complex malformation syndrome with “cutis tricolor” (Ruggieri‐Happle syndrome)
Authors: Ruggieri Martino , Roggini Mario , Kennerknecht Ingo , Polizzi Agata , Distefano Angela , Pavone Vito
Published: December 2010

Background:  The term cutis tricolor describes the combination of congenital hyper‐ and hypopigmented skin lesions in close proximity to each other in a background of normal complexion. This phenomenon has been reported: (i) as a purely cutaneous trait; (ii) as a part of a complex malformation syndrome (Ruggieri‐Happle syndrome ‐ RHS); (iii) as a distinct type [cutis tricolor parvimaculata]; (iv) in association with other (e.g. vascular) skin disturbances.

Objectives:  To delineate the spectrum of skeletal defects in cutis tricolor.

Methods:  Retrospective and prospective analysis of skeletal surveys in 14 subjects (eight men; six women; aged 2–28 years) with cutis tricolor [4 purely cutaneous trait; 10 syndromic (RHS)].

Results:  Bone abnormalities were recorded in 71.4% (10/14) of patients [100% (10/10) of cases with (other‐than‐skeletal) extra‐cutaneous manifestations vs. null (0/4) in cases with purely cutaneous traits] and included overall small skull (n = 6); prognathism (n = 6); ‘J’‐shaped pituitary fossa (n = 1); absence of atlas posterior arch (n = 3); frontal bossing (n = 6); scoliosis (n = 9) with kyphosis (n = 6) and/or lordosis (n = 6); vertebral (n = 9) and ribs (n = 4) defects. Negative ZFHX1B gene analyses excluded overlaps with Mowat–Wilson syndrome.

Conclusions:  Cutis tricolor may be a marker of underlying skeletal involvement particularly in subjects with a complex syndromic (RHS) phenotype.
AUTONOMISM AS A GLOBAL SOCIAL MOVEMENT
Authors: Cuninghame Patrick
Published: December 2010

Despite the consensus opinion that alterglobalism is in crisis and apparently without a clear objective or vehicle for promoting global change through the ineffective World Social Forum “model,” a significant anticapitalist tendency continues to remain active. However, questions remain over autonomism's ability to avoid ghettoizing itself and provide more than intense internal criticism of other more institutionalized and “vertical” currents. Autonomism originated in Europe in the seventies and eighties, specifically around the Autonomia and Autonomen radical social movements in Italy and Germany. Based on Italian workerist theories of worker self‐management and autonomy from the mediating institutions of both capital and labor, the movement has since absorbed strong influences from radical feminism, the North American counterculture, French poststructuralism, neoanarchism, Mexican neo‐Zapatism, and the Argentinean worker‐recuperated factory and self‐management movements.
“ ‘WE'RE GETTING OUR COUNTRY BACK’: REFLECTIONS ON POLITICS, RACE, LABOR AND COMMUNITY IN THE AGE OF OBAMA”. A CONVERSATION WITH MARK AYERS, PRESIDENT, BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADES DEPARTMENT (AFL‐CIO)
Authors: Grabelsky Jeff
Published: December 2010

This is an expansive and wide‐ranging “conversation” with Mark Ayers, President of the Building and Construction Trades Department (BCTD‐AFL‐CIO), a coalition of thirteen unions representing over two million workers in the construction industry. Edited from about one hundred pages of transcripts of interviews with Ayers conducted by Jeff Grabelsky, this conversation covers a variety of issues including: the implications for the labor movement of Obama's 2008 election; the opportunities arising during the Obama administration's first two years as well as the threats of the right wing backlash; the need for deeper and more authentic labor‐community partnerships; the challenge of increasing the diversity of the unionized Building Trades; and, the dangers of global warming.

Before becoming BCTD president, Mark Ayers was a union electrician, a local union business manager, an international union representative, and the director of the IBEW's Construction and Maintenance Department. He shares his experiences, perspectives, and vision for revitalizing the unionized construction industry in a remarkably candid and bold way. His underlying message is that the Building Trades unions can not re‐establish their power and influence in the construction industry unless and until their leaders break free of outdated strategies that will be increasingly ineffectual in a rapidly changing political, economic, and social landscape.
Resident Education and Training in Female Sexuality: Results of a National Survey
Authors: Pancholy Apurva B. , Goldenhar Linda , Fellner Angela N. , Crisp Catrina , Kleeman Steve , Pauls Rachel
Published: December 2010

Introduction

Considering the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction, the lack of education and training in female sexual function and dysfunction (FSF&D) during and obstetrics and gynecology residency highlights a need for greater focus on this topic.

Aim

To assess understanding and confidence among third and fourth year Ob/Gyn residents with respect to FSF&D.

Methods

An Internet-based survey was constructed to evaluate third and fourth year residents in American Council for Graduate Medical Education-approved Ob/Gyn programs. Residents were asked about familiarity, knowledge, and confidence in treating various aspects of FSF&D, based on the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG) Educational Objectives for Ob/Gyn training. They were also queried regarding areas of improvement for their education.

Main Outcome Measure

Responses to survey instrument.

Results

Two hundred thirty-four residents responded. The majority (91.5%) reported attending ≤5 didactic activities on FSF&D. Only 19.6% reported often or always screening women for sexual function problems; most had very little or no knowledge in administering or interpreting screening questionnaires. While many (82.8%) felt confident about obtaining a complete sexual history, only 54.7% felt able to perform a targeted physical exam. Although most residents had cared for women with dyspareunia (55.1%), a minority had managed many women with low desire (18.4%), arousal problems (8.1%), anorgasmia (5.6%), or vaginismus (16.7%). In treating patients, 34–56% reported rarely or never suggesting ancillary therapy such as counseling and medications. However, the majority believed that their confidence would increase through FSF&D lectures (97.9%), FSF&D patient observations (97.4%), rotating with a urogynecologist (94.4%), and online modules (90.6%).

Conclusion

Despite CREOG requirements for Ob/Gyn training in female sexuality, most residents feel ill-equipped to address these problems. Additional evidence-based educational and didactic activities would enhance residents’ knowledge and confidence in treating these common, quality-of-life issues.
Feasibility Study of an Intensity-Modulated Radiation Model for the Study of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Koontz Bridget F. , Yan Hui , Kimura Masaki , Vujaskovic Zeljko , Donatucci Craig , Yin Fang-Fang
Published: December 2010

Introduction

Preclinical studies of radiotherapy (RT) induced erectile dysfunction (ED) have been limited by radiation toxicity when using large fields.

Aim

To develop a protocol of rat prostate irradiation using techniques mimicking the current clinical standard of intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).

Main Outcome Measures

Quality assurance (QA) testing of plan accuracy, animal health 9 weeks after RT, and intracavernosal pressure (ICP) measurement on cavernosal nerve stimulation.

Methods

Computed tomography-based planning was used to develop a stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) treatment plan for five young adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Two treatment planning strategies were utilized to deliver 20 Gy in a single fraction: three-dimensional dynamic conformal arc and intensity-modulated arc (RapidArc). QA testing was performed for each plan type. Treatment was delivered using a NovalisTX (Varian Medical Systems) with high-definition multi-leaf collimators using on-board imaging prior to treatment. Each animal was evaluated for ED 2 months after treatment by nerve stimulation and ICP measurement.

Results

The mean prostate volume and target volume (5 mm expansion of prostate) for the five animals was 0.36 and 0.66 cm3, respectively. Both conformal and RapidArc plans provided at least 95% coverage of the target volume, with rapid dose fall-off. QA plans demonstrated strong agreement between doses of calculated and delivered plans, although the conformal arc plan was more homogenous in treatment delivery. Treatment was well tolerated by the animals with no toxicity out to 9 weeks. Compared with control animals, significant reduction in ICP/mean arterial pressure, maximum ICP, and ICP area under the curve were noted.

Conclusion

Tightly conformal dynamic arc prostate irradiation is feasible and results in minimal toxicity and measurable changes in erectile function.
Simultaneous Penile–Vaginal Intercourse Orgasm is Associated with Satisfaction (Sexual, Life, Partnership, and Mental Health)
Authors: Brody Stuart , Weiss Petr
Published: December 2010

Introduction

Previous multivariate research found that satisfaction was associated positively with frequency of specifically penile–vaginal intercourse (PVI; as opposed to other sexual activities) as well as with vaginal orgasm. The contribution to satisfaction of simultaneous orgasm produced by PVI merited direct examination in a large representative sample.

Aims

To examine the associations of aspects of satisfaction (sexual, life, own mental health, partner relationship) with consistency of simultaneous orgasm produced by PVI (as well as with PVI frequency and vaginal orgasm consistency).

Methods

A representative sample of Czechs (N = 1,570) aged 35–65 years completed a survey on aspects of satisfaction, PVI frequency, vaginal orgasm consistency, and consistency of simultaneous orgasm produced by PVI (the latter being a specially timed version of vaginal orgasm for women).

Main Outcome Measures

Analysis of variance of satisfaction components (LiSat scale items) from age and the sexual behaviors.

Results

For both sexes, all aspects of satisfaction were associated with simultaneous PVI orgasm consistency and with PVI frequency (except female life satisfaction). All aspects of satisfaction were also associated with vaginal orgasm consistency. Multivariate analyses indicated that PVI frequency and simultaneous orgasm consistency make independent contributions to the aspects of satisfaction for both sexes.

Conclusions

For both sexes, PVI frequency and simultaneous orgasm produced by PVI (as well as vaginal orgasm for women) are associated with greater life, sexual, partnership, and mental health satisfaction. Greater support for these specific aspects of sexual activity is warranted.
Early Dyspareunia Experience in Young Women: Confusion, Consequences, and Help-Seeking Barriers
Authors: Donaldson Robyn L. , Meana Marta
Published: December 2010

Introduction

Recurrent painful intercourse or dyspareunia is a highly prevalent health problem associated with impairments in sexual function and psychosocial well-being. Despite its particularly high prevalence in young women, little is known about how young women experience the onset of dyspareunia and how they attempt to manage or address the problem.

Aims

To explore the subjective experience of early dyspareunia symptoms in young women so as to model its cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and help-seeking trajectory.

Methods

Using a qualitative methodology broadly based on grounded theory, 14 young women reporting recurrent entry and/or deep pain with intercourse underwent in-depth semistructured interviews asking them to describe their personal experience with dyspareunia symptoms.

Main Outcome Measures

The Female Sexual Function Index was used to screen women with symptoms of dyspareunia. The main outcome measure was a semistructured interview inquiring about the cognitions and emotions associated with the experience of pain with intercourse, causal attributions for the pain, interference with personal, relational, and sexual well-being, and help-seeking decisions.

Results

The model/theory that emerged suggested a sequence of experiences that began with confusion about the onset of pain and a relatively fruitless search for causal attributions. Attempts to self-manage the pain via a number of cognitive and behavioral strategies provided little relief. Deleterious consequences on sexual function, well-being, and relationships ensued, and women reported a number of barriers to help-seeking.

Conclusion

The findings from this study suggest that a lack of public health information about dyspareunia and the reluctance of health care providers to inquire about sexual problems may contribute to many young women delaying treatment for a serious sexual health problem with potentially negative biopsychosocial outcomes.
The merger rate of extremely low mass white dwarf binaries: links to the formation of AM CVn stars and underluminous supernovae
Authors: Brown Warren R. , Kilic Mukremin , Prieto Carlos Allende , Kenyon Scott J.
Published: December 2010

We study a complete, colour-selected sample of double-degenerate binary systems containing extremely low mass (ELM) ≤0.25 M⊙ white dwarfs (WDs). We show, for the first time, that Milky Way disc ELM WDs have a merger rate of approximately 4 × 10−5 yr−1 due to gravitational wave radiation. The merger end product depends on the mass ratio of the binary. The ELM WD systems that undergo stable mass transfer can account for ≳3 per cent of AM Canum Venaticorum (AM CVn) stars. More importantly, the ELM WD systems that may detonate merge at a rate comparable to the estimated rate of underluminous supernovae (SNe), rare explosions estimated to produce only ∼0.2 M⊙ worth of ejecta. At least 25 per cent of our ELM WD sample belong to the old thick disc and halo components of the Milky Way. Thus, if merging ELM WD systems are the progenitors of underluminous SNe, transient surveys must find them in both elliptical and spiral galaxies.
EFFECT OF LUPIN FLOUR SUBSTITUTION ON THE QUALITY AND SENSORY ACCEPTABILITY OF INSTANT NOODLES
Authors: JAYASENA VIJAY , LEUNG PEGGY P.Y. , NASAR‐ABBAS SYED M.
Published: December 2010

Instant noodles are usually made from wheat flour which is low in protein and dietary fiber contents. To improve the nutritional quality of instant noodles, samples were prepared by incorporating lupin flour, which is high in protein and dietary fiber contents, at 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50% levels. Two sets of noodle samples were made; one with 0.05% added ascorbic acid and the other without added ascorbic acid. The uncooked samples were evaluated for color, protein, fat and mineral contents. The cooked samples were analyzed for cooking loss, color and textural properties in comparison with the control sample. Sensory characteristics (color, flavor, texture, taste and overall acceptability) were also evaluated to find out the optimum acceptable level of lupin flour incorporation in the instant noodles.

There was no significant increase in the cooking losses at ≤30% lupin incorporation. The color of both uncooked and cooked noodles became more yellowish with the increase in lupin concentration. However, the addition of ascorbic acid (0.05%) improved the color of cooked instant noodles. The addition of 20% lupin flour improved the nutritional value of the product by increasing protein by 42% and dietary fiber by approximately 200% without affecting the sensory properties of instant noodles.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Instant noodles, conventionally prepared from wheat flour, are low in protein and dietary fiber contents. Lupin flour, which is high in protein and fiber contents, has been assessed for its incorporation into instant noodle by means of physical, nutritional and sensory evaluations. The study provides information about a commercially viable way of increasing protein and fiber content in instant noodles.
THE EFFECT OF PARTIAL SUBSTITUTION OF WHEAT FLOUR WITH CHICKPEA FLOUR ON THE TECHNOLOGICAL, NUTRITIONAL AND SENSORY PROPERTIES OF COUSCOUS
Authors: DEMIR BERAT , BILGIÇLI NERMIN , ELGÜN ADEM , DEMIR M. KÜRŞAT
Published: December 2010

Turkish couscous is a traditional cereal product that is generally produced by coating wheat bulgur with the wheat flour and water or milk. In this research, wheat flour used in couscous production to cover bulgur was replaced with chickpea flour (CPF) up to 100% to improve the nutritional status of couscous. Technological properties, color values, chemical and sensory properties of couscous samples were determined. Technological properties of couscous were affected negatively by the increasing CPF amounts in couscous formulation. The color values of couscous samples with 75–100% CPF were darker than the others. The ash, protein and cellulose contents of the couscous increased with increasing amount of CPF. Rich phytic acid (PA) content of CPF significantly (P < 0.05) affected the PA content of the end products. PA contents of 100% CPF added couscous samples were found 4.4 times higher than the control sample. Ca, Mg, K, P, Fe and Zn amounts increased at different degrees with CPF addition. CPF affected flavor, firmness, stickiness and overall acceptability of couscous significantly (P < 0.05). As a result, CPF substitution decreased the cooking properties but increased nutritional and sensory properties except 100% substitution level compared with control samples. Acceptable CPF level was found as 50% in terms of technological, nutritional and sensory and also functional properties of couscous.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Refined wheat flour is inadequate in terms of ash, mineral, dietary fiber and lysine amino acid. Legumes are most suitable material for enrichment of cereal product. In this research, for obtaining optimum couscous quality and nutritional enrichment, couscous was supplemented with chickpea flour. Acceptable substitution level was found as 50% for the technologic, nutritional and sensory properties. This new product may be an innovative nutritious food because of its favorite taste and aromatic profile.
Effect of Processing and Packaging Conditions on Quality of Refrigerated Potato Strips
Authors: Oner M.E. , Walker P.N.
Published: December 2010

Abstract:  Although sulfiting agents are commonly used in the fresh‐cut potato industry, concerns about further regulatory restrictions on sulfite use and consumer fear of sulfite‐treated foods have lead to increased research in alternative processing methods. The objective of this study was to determine processing and packaging techniques to achieve a safe and high‐quality potato strips with a 4 wk minimum refrigerated shelf life. Potato strips were 1st blanched at low temperature (60 °C) in 0.5% CaCl2 solution for 20 min and then 2nd blanched at high temperature (approximately 98 °C) in water for 5 min. Blanched strips were packaged in a near‐aseptic environment or treated in‐package with gaseous ozone, sodium metabisulfite (SM) solution, or FIT Fruit and Vegetable Wash™ (Procter and Gamble Co., Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.A.) and then stored at 7 ± 1 °C for 28 d. No significant difference was observed in lightness of near‐aseptically packaged fries, FIT‐treated fries, and frozen fries; however, less color difference was determined in near‐aseptically packaged fries and FIT‐treated fries compared to frozen fries. Gaseous ozone treatment decreased color quality of potato strips, significantly. The highest after‐frying peak force was observed in FIT‐treated strips. There was no significant difference in oil absorption of refrigerated and unprocessed strips. These results indicate that either near‐aseptic packaging or in‐package FIT treatment are the better alternatives for blanched potato strips to extend shelf life and maintain quality.

Practical Application:  In this study, several processing conditions and packaging methods were evaluated to improve quality and extend shelf life of refrigerated potato strips. Results indicate that the combination of 2‐step blanching and near‐aseptic packaging was an effective nonchemical processing method, giving 28 d refrigerated shelf life. Similarly, FIT Fruit and Vegetable Wash™ proved to be an effective chemical alternative to sulfites and avoids the allergen concern.
A Kinetic Study on Sesame Cake Protein Hydrolysis by Alcalase
Authors: Demirhan Elçin , Apar Dilek Kılıç , Özbek Belma
Published: December 2010

Abstract: In the present study, the hydrolysis of sesame cake protein was performed by Alcalase, a bacterial protease produced byBacillus licheniformis, to investigate the reaction kinetics of sesame cake hydrolysis and to determine decay and product inhibition effects for Alcalase. The reactions were carried out for 10 min in 0.1 L of aqueous solutions containing 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 g protein/L at various temperature and pH values. To determine decay and product inhibition effects for Alcalase, a series of inhibition experiments were conducted with the addition of various amounts of hydrolysate. The reaction kinetics was investigated by initial rate approach. The initial reaction rates were determined from the slopes of the linear models that fitted to the experimental data. The kinetic parameters, Kmand Vmax, were estimated as 41.17 g/L and 9.24 meqv/L.min. The Lineweaver–Burk plots showed that the type of inhibition for Alcalase determined as uncompetitive, and the inhibition constant, Ki, was estimated as 38.24% (hydrolysate/substrate mixture).

Practical Application: Plant proteins are increasingly being used as an alternative to proteins from animal sources to perform functional roles in food formulation. Knowledge of the kinetics of the hydrolysis reaction is essential for the optimization of enzymatic protein hydrolysis and for increasing the utilization of plant proteins in food products. Therefore, in the present study, the hydrolysis of sesame cake protein was performed by Alcalase, a bacterial protease produced byB. licheniformis, to investigate the reaction kinetics of sesame cake hydrolysis and to determine decay and product inhibition effects for Alcalase.
Detection of Nucleic Acid Lesions During Photochemical Inactivation of RNA Viruses by Treatment with Methylene Blue and Light Using Real‐time PCR
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zheng Lan , Huang Yuwen , Mo Qin , Wang Xun , Qian Kaicheng
Published: December 2010

The mechanism of bacteriophage photoinactivation by methylene blue and light (MB+L) involves genomic RNA damage. In this study, two RNA viruses, Sindbis virus (SINV) and hepatitis C virus were treated by MB+L and their nucleic acids were amplified to show that RNA lesions occurred during inactivation. During MB+L inactivation, the viral load of both viruses was significantly reduced as MB+L exposure increased. The nucleic acid amplification of treated viral RNA was inhibited in a time‐dependent manner and the percentage inhibition of amplification reached about 99% after 30 min of treatment. Furthermore, as compared to SINV viral infectivity detected by quantification of the 50% tissue culture infective dose (TCID50), the inhibition of SINV RNA amplification strongly correlated with a decrease in in vitro infectivity (R2 > 0.94), suggesting that RNA serves as the main target during MB+L inactivation.
Is There a Better Alternative for Australia’s Health System?
Authors: Richardson Jeff
Published: December 2010

This article examines three issues. These are, first, the need for the 2010 Commonwealth intervention in the health sector; secondly, the reasons why the sector still needs major reform despite this intervention and thirdly, the broad options for reform. The conclusions reached are, first, that the intervention is anticlimactic but necessary in the absence of tax reform; secondly, that the system is inefficient and inequitable primarily because of two deficiencies, namely information and governance structures and thirdly that the best path to follow would be to create limited diversity and the depoliticisation of all but the largest decisions. It is argued that in the absence of market price signals, the driver of dynamic efficiency should be the generation, proactive dissemination and use of information on a scale which has not been envisaged in previous proposals.
What Drives Health Spending in the Northern Territory?
Authors: Zhao Yuejen , Goss John , Malyon Rosalyn
Published: December 2010

This study estimated the relative contributions of identified cost drivers for health services in the Northern Territory from 1979/1980 to 2006/2007. A decomposition model was used to analyse the relative contributions of the potential determinants of the growth in health expenditure. The analysis indicated that there was a shift in the drivers of growth in health expenditure during the study period. Between 1979/1980 and 1992/1993, the increase in health expenditure was mainly driven by service access for rural and remote residents and inflation, each of which accounted for about one‐third of the increase in health expenditure. Since 1993/1994 onwards, service access was overtaken by Aboriginal ageing as the leading driver of the health expenditure, followed by population increase. The contribution of inflation halved in the later period. The impact of alternative assumptions for decomposing health expenditure increase was also investigated. The study indicated that Aboriginal ageing, coincident with an epidemic of preventable chronic diseases may be behind the recent increase in health expenditure.
Economic Analysis of the Government’s Recent Mining Tax Proposals*
Authors: Parmenter Brian , Breckenridge Amar , Gray Stephen
Published: December 2010

We explain the mechanics of resource rent taxes, including the RSPT that was proposed by Kevin Rudd in May 2010. We discuss the key design flaw of the proposed RSPT as applied to new projects and the issues of retrospectivity associated with the RSPT proposal. We outline some deficiencies in the economic modelling on which the government relied in support of the RSPT and propose revised modelling to overcome the deficiencies. Finally, we review the revised mining‐tax proposals announced by Prime Minister Gillard in July 2010.
Substernal hand‐assisted videothoracoscopic lung metastasectomy: Long term results in a selected patient cohort
Authors: Tacconi Federico , Ambrogi Vincenzo , Pompeo Eugenio , Sellitri Francesco , Mineo Tommaso Claudio
Published: December 2010

Background:  Substernal hand‐assisted thoracoscopy (HATS) has been proposed as a reliable surgical method with which to perform a bilateral lung metastasectomy. Herein, we review our 15‐year experience with this approach for the purpose of understanding the long‐term results in a large study cohort.

Methods:  The study cohort was a series of 87 patients that underwent a HATS lung metastasectomy between 1995 and 2010. We focused on the main surgical findings including the ability of this approach to facilitate the detection of unexpected pulmonary lesions. Overall and disease‐free survival rates were analyzed in a long‐term follow up using the Kaplan‐Meier method.

Results:  A total of 219 lesions were removed. Of these, 191 proved to be malignant. This figure accounted for 31 (19.3%) unexpected lung metastases not previously identified at imaging work‐up. Eighteen nodules previously suggested as metastatic lesions proved to be benign. On the basis of these findings sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for imaging work‐up in detecting lung metastases were 79.6%, 41.3%, 86.4%, and 30.5%, respectively. Lesions sized <7 mm showed the highest false negative rate. Postoperatively no major complications occurred. Overall survival rates at 3 and 5 years were 57.9% and 38.4%, respectively. Disease‐free interval after primary cancer removal, but not all metastases nor bilateral spread, was related to survival (P = 0.015).

Conclusions:  In our experience, HATS resulted in a considerable percentage of resected lung metastases not previously detected at imaging work‐up. We recommend this approach whenever feasible as it can conciliate low invasiveness and completeness of surgical resection. Substernal HATS makes it possible to detect a considerable number of unexpected lesions in patients undergoing lung metastasectomy with low surgical trauma. This study reinforces the role of this approach in the setting of lung metastasectomy, due to the large patient series and long‐term follow‐up.
Serum Triglyceride Concentrations in Miniature Schnauzers with and without a History of Probable Pancreatitis
Authors: Xenoulis P.G. , Levinski M.D. , Suchodolski J.S. , Steiner J.M.
Published: December 2010

Background:The association between hypertriglyceridemia and pancreatitis remains obscure in dogs. A possible role of hypertriglyceridemia as a cause of pancreatitis in Miniature Schnauzers has been suspected.

Hypothesis/Objectives:To compare serum triglyceride concentrations between Miniature Schnauzers with and without a recent history of pancreatitis.

Animals:Seventeen Miniature Schnauzers with a history of pancreatitis (group 1) and 34 age‐matched Miniature Schnauzers without a history of pancreatitis (group 2) were prospectively enrolled.

Methods:Prospective case‐control study. Two samples were collected from each of the 17 Miniature Schnauzers with pancreatitis: 1 during pancreatitis and 1 after clinical and biochemical resolution of pancreatitis. Serum triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations were compared between group 1 (after resolution of pancreatitis) and group 2.

Results:Miniature Schnauzers in group 1 were significantly more likely to have hypertriglyceridemia (>108 mg/dL) (71%) after resolution of pancreatitis than Miniature Schnauzers in group 2 (33%; odds ratio = 5.02; 95% confidence interval = 1.4–17.8;P= .0163). Serum triglyceride concentrations were significantly higher in dogs of group 1 (median: 605.0 mg/dL) after resolution of pancreatitis than in dogs of group 2 (median: 73.5 mg/dL;P= .002).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Miniature Schnauzers with a history of pancreatitis were 5 times more likely to have hypertriglyceridemia than controls. Hypertriglyceridemia might be associated with the development of pancreatitis in some dogs of this breed. Additional studies are needed to further clarify the role of hypertriglyceridemia in the development of pancreatitis in Miniature Schnauzers as well as other dog breeds.
The Feline Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (Feline APPLE) Score: A Severity of Illness Stratification System for Hospitalized Cats
Authors: Hayes G. , Mathews K. , Doig G. , Kruth S. , Boston S. , Nykamp S. , Poljak Z. , Dewey C.
Published: December 2010

Background: Scores allowing objective stratification of illness severity are available for dogs and horses, but not cats. Validated illness severity scores facilitate the risk‐adjusted analysis of results in clinical research, and also have applications in triage and therapeutic protocols.

Objective: To develop and validate an accurate, user‐friendly score to stratify illness severity in hospitalized cats.

Animals: Six hundred cats admitted consecutively to a teaching hospital intensive care unit.

Methods: This observational cohort study enrolled all cats admitted over a 32‐month period. Data on interventional, physiological, and biochemical variables were collected over 24 hours after admission. Patient mortality outcome at hospital discharge was recorded. After random division, 450 cats were used for logistic regression model construction, and data from 150 cats for validation.

Results: Patient mortality was 25.8%. Five‐ and 8‐variable scores were developed. The 8‐variable score contained mentation score, temperature, mean arterial pressure (MAP), lactate, PCV, urea, chloride, and body cavity fluid score. Area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) on the construction cohort was 0.91 (95% CI, 0.87–0.94), and 0.88 (95% CI, 0.84–0.96) on the validation cohort. The 5‐variable score contained mentation score, temperature, MAP, lactate, and PCV. AUROC on the construction cohort was 0.83 (95% CI, 0.79–0.86), and 0.76 (95% CI, 0.72–0.84) on the validation cohort.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Two scores are presented enabling allocation of an accurate and user‐friendly illness severity measure to hospitalized cats. Scores are calculated from data obtained over the 1st 24 hours after admission, and are diagnosis‐independent. The 8‐variable score predicts outcome significantly better than does the 5‐variable score.
Operation Characteristics of 1.3kW Class Anode-Supported Flat Tubular SOFC Stack
Authors: Lim Tak-Hyung , Park Seok-Joo , Song Rak-Hyun , Lee Seung-Bok , Shin Dong-Ryul
Published: December 2010

KIER has fabricated anode-supported flat tubular SOFC stack for the intermediate temperature (700∼800°C) operation. For this purpose, we have first fabricated anode-supported flat tubular cells by the optimization between the current collecting method and the induction brazing process. After that we designed the compact fuel & air manifold by adopting the simulation technique to uniformly supply fuel & air gas and the unique seal & insulation method to make the more compact stack. For making stack, the prepared anode-supported flat tubular cells with effective electrode area of 108cm2 connected in series with 37 bundles, in which one bundle consists of two cells connected in parallel. The performance of stack in 3% humidified H2 and air at 800°C showed maximum power of 1.3kW.
A New Generation of Fuel Cell Hybrid Powertrain for Public Traffic
Authors: Xu Liangfei , Li Jianqiu , Ouyang Minggao , Hua Jianfeng , Li Xiangjun
Published: December 2010

Fuel cell hybrid city buses are set to play a prominent role in public traffic applications by offering a more energy efficient and less polluting drive-train alternative to conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. During the past ten years the Chinese university - industry - collaboration organization developed several fuel cell hybrid city buses. Three of them were demonstrated in the Beijing Olympic Games of 2008, and caused great attention. However, the hybrid powertrain needs to be improved, so as to fulfill the vehicle power requirement, prolong the working life time of the fuel cell stacks, and keep the battery charge sustaining. Similar to the old one, the new generation consists of two fuel cell stacks, a traction battery and an electric motor. The differences reflect in three aspects. Firstly, the two stacks are regulated independent with each other. Secondly, a real-time applicable average power prediction algorithm of the electric motor is exploited. Thirdly, the output power of each stack is determined in accordance with the states, which are estimated on-line. A novel energy management strategy considering average electric motor power prediction, SOC balancing, battery temperature feedback control, fuel cell resistance estimating is exploited. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed system.
Nafion/PBI Nanofiber Composite Membranes for Fuel Cells Applications
Authors: Yu Tzyy-Lung Leon , Liu Shih-Hao , Lin Hsiu-Li , Su Po-Hao
Published: December 2010

The PBI (poly(benzimidazole)) nano-fiber thin film with thickness of 18–30 μm is prepared by electro-spinning from a 20 wt% PBI/DMAc (N, N′-dimethyl acetamide) solution. The PBI nano-fiber thin film is then treated with a glutaraldehyde liquid for 24h at room temperature to proceed chemical crosslink reaction. The crosslink PBI nano-fiber thin film is then immersed in Nafion solutions to prepare Nafion/PBI nano-fiber composite membranes (thickness 22–34 μm). The morphology of the composite membranes is observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The mechanical properties, conductivity, and unit fuel cell performance of membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of the composite membrane are investigated and compared with those of Nafion-212 membrane (thickness ∼50 μm) and Nafion/porous PTFE (poly(tetrafluoro ethylene)) composite membrane (thickness ∼22 μm). We show the present composite membrane has a similar fuel cell performance to Nafion/PTFE and a better fuel cell performance than Du Pont Nafion-212.
Method of Engineering Cost Reduction: A Case Study of Low Production Volume, High-Temperature Fuel Cell Non-Repeating Components
Authors: Davis Keith E. , Gates Alfred
Published: December 2010

It will be demonstrated that a design focus on three parameters will facilitate the utilization of existing value added and value engineering techniques, resulting in a streamlined pragmatic method to achieve large cost savings. This method will help the costs to be engineered out of the product, regardless of commercial issues in which the engineer has no direct control. By focusing on three critical parameters that can be optimized through the use of innovative engineering techniques, low-production precision fabricated components for use in high temperature fuel cell applications can be significantly cost reduced while maintaining or improving performance. The real world application of this technique will be demonstrated on the redesign of two major fuel cell module sub-systems to showcase the impact of these three parameters alone on final cost, regardless of other commercial factors. The three parameters are as follows: 1. Weight. 2. Part count (total and unique parts). 3. Labor and Processing. These three parameters are treated as “Rules” in this study. The effectiveness of this technique will be demonstrated by quantifying how well the rules were followed and the resulting cost savings.
High Temperature Fuel Cell Container Design Guide Lines as Applied to a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell to Power a MK 48 Torpedo
Authors: Gates Alfred A. , Ghezel-Ayagh Hossein
Published: December 2010

A study was performed on the design of powering a MK 48 torpedo with a solid oxide fuel cell stack. The study involved the design and analysis of a container, compression system, vertical and horizontal supports, and vessel insulation. Detailed analysis was performed on the container using different materials, Inconel alloy 740 and 316 SS. The container was designed for thermal and static pressure loading conditions. Additional analysis includes a deflagration pressure load. Over stress conditions are a major design concern, due to the high operating temperature of the solid oxide fuel cell. Typically large thermal gradients occur near the piping penetrations to the container resulting in a high stress states. The acceptable stress levels are reduced due to the elevated temperatures and also are dependent on the length of operation. Details on applying material temperature dependent strength data and the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code requirements are provided. A novel approach on relocating the high stress zones due to large temperature gradients is applied to the container design. The use of Inconel alloy 740 and 316 SS were examined for container components and the effects on weight are addressed. Knowing the weight and component geometry an engineer can make a overall cost estimate with manufacturing process information. To minimize cost the container was designed using standard pipe geometry.
Three-Dimensional Numerical Analysis of Gas Flow and Heat Transfer in SOFCs With Honeycomb-Like Channels
Authors: Huang Yuan , Wang Weiguo , Yuan Jinliang , Sunden Bengt
Published: December 2010

Design of advanced flow channels in bipolar plates is one of the key factors affecting SOFC stack and system performance. Various transport phenomena occurring in SOFCs with conventional interconnects with rib- or serpentine channels, etc, have been extensively studied. In this paper new designed channels are proposed and evaluated numerically by computational software. The investigated geometry consists of two computational domains: a porous anode layer and interconnect. The latter one serves as gas distribution for hydrogen or air in SOFCs. Compared with conventional designs, the configuration of interconnect having honeycomb structures is different. Such unique channels lead to gas flow in many directions, and gas flow distribution and pressure drop are significantly different from those in conventional designs. This simulation employs the Navier-Stokes equations for the gas flow in the channels, and the Darcy model in the porous layer. Combined gas and heat transfer in the channels and the porous gas diffusion layer, permeation across the interface are analyzed by a fully three-dimensional code in this paper. All the governing equations are solved utilizing the commercial code COMSOL. The velocity field, the distribution of hydrogen in the channels, the fraction of the hydrogen entering the anode diffusion layer, and the pressure drop are predicted and presented. Also, the friction factor of the unique design is compared with that of the rectangular channel. The numerical results and findings from this study are important for optimizing the flow fields, decreasing the cost of experiments and designing of the channels.