bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Modeling of Emulsified Oil Distribution in Heterogeneous Aquifers
Authors: Clayton Matthew H. , Borden Robert C.
Published: December 2008

In situ anaerobic bioremediation using edible oil emulsions will be most effective if the oil droplets can be brought into close contact with the contaminant to be treated. However, uniformly distributing oil in heterogeneous aquifers can be difficult. The impact of injection conditions on emulsion distribution in a three‐dimensional heterogeneous aquifer is examined using MODFLOW and RT3D. Emulsion retention is simulated using a rate‐limited Langmuir isotherm. Volume and flow contact efficiency are shown to be functions of mass of oil injected, injection fluid volume, well spacing, and injection sequence. Regression equations are developed relating dimensionless scaling factors to expected contact efficiency for area treatment and barriers. Cleanup time for uncontacted zones is estimated using a mobile‐immobile zone modeling approach.
Human Rights and Global Democracy
Authors: Goodhart Michael
Published: December 2008

Human rights and global democracy are widely assumed to be compatible, but the conceptual and practical connection between them has received little attention. As a result, the relationship is under-theorized, and important potential conflicts between them have been neglected or overlooked. This essay attempts to fill this gap by addressing directly the conceptual relationship between human rights and global democracy. It argues that human rights are a necessary condition for global democracy. Human rights constrain power, enable meaningful political agency, and support and promote democratic regimes within states, all of which are fundamental elements in any scheme for global democracy. The essay explores the normative and conceptual bases of these functions and works out some of their institutional implications.
Interannual variation in pup production and the timing of breeding in benthic foraging Australian fur seals
Authors: Gibbens John , Arnould John P. Y.
Published: December 2008

Abstract

Large interannual variations in reproductive success caused by fluctuations in oceanography and prey availability are common to many species of air breathing epipelagic predators. In contrast, little is known about variation in benthic foragers such as Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus). Between 1997 and 2007, pup production was assessed in 9 yr, while the timing of breeding and adult female condition was assessed in 5 yr at Kanowna Island in Bass Strait, southeastern Australia. Pup production was variable (= 1,726 ± 42, range = 1,386–2,301), but without temporal trend, as was median birth date (= 23 November ± 1, range = 21–25 November) and pupping synchrony (period of 90% births: = 28 ± 2 d, range = 23–31 d). Pup production was negatively correlated with median birth date and positively correlated with female condition, winter sea‐surface temperature (SST) and zonal wind strength within Bass Strait. Pup production was also negatively correlated with SST in the previous summer within Bass Strait and in the eastern Great Australian Bight upwelling region. The results suggest that the reproductive success of Australian fur seals is influenced by oceanography but less so than in otariids foraging epipelagically in major upwellings. Despite spanning several El Niño events, no correlation between pup production and the Southern Oscillation Index was observed.
Grammatical Categories and Relations: Universality vs. Language‐Specificity and Construction‐Specificity
Authors: Cristofaro Sonia
Published: December 2008

A long‐standing assumption in linguistic analysis is that different languages and constructions can be described in terms of the same grammatical categories and relations. Individual grammatical categories and relations are in fact often assumed to be universal. Grammatical categories and relations display however different properties across different languages and constructions, which challenges the idea that the same categories and relations should actually be posited in each case. These facts have been dealt with in two major ways in the functional‐typological literature. In a widespread approach, the same categories and relations are posited for different languages and constructions provided that these all have categories and relations that display some selected properties. In a more recent approach, this idea is abandoned, and grammatical categories and relations are argued to be language‐specific and construction‐specific. This article provides a critical review of these approaches, and a comparison is made with some generatively oriented approaches. In particular, it is argued that a distinction should be made between two views of grammatical categories and relations. In one view, grammatical categories and relations are classificatory labels indicating that a variety of linguistic elements display some selected property. In another view, grammatical categories and relations are proper components of a speaker's mental grammar. While cross‐linguistically valid (or possibly universal) and cross‐constructionally valid categories and relations can be posited when classifying linguistic elements based on observed grammatical patterns, there is no obvious evidence that such categories and relations exist at the level of mental representation. This is, however, because of the absence of conclusive evidence about the organization of a speaker's mental grammar, rather than because of the linguistic evidence as such.
Speaking and Hearing Clearly: Talker and Listener Factors in Speaking Style Changes
Authors: Smiljanić Rajka , Bradlow Ann R.
Published: December 2008

This article provides an overview of the research concerning the nature of the distinct, listener‐oriented speaking style called ‘clear speech’ and its effect on intelligibility for various listener populations. We review major findings that identify talker, listener and signal characteristics that contribute to the characteristically high intelligibility of clear speech. Understanding the interplay of these factors sheds light on the interaction between higher level cognitive and lower‐level sensory and perceptual factors that affect language processing. Clear speech research is, thus, relevant for both its theoretical insights and practical applications. Throughout the review, we highlight open questions and promising future directions.
Surfacing Tension: Toward a Political Ecological Critique of Surfing Representations
Authors: Hill Lauren L. , Abbott J. Anthony
Published: December 2008

Historically, surfing has been perceived as an environmentally conscious endeavor. Some attribute this environmentalism to the ways in which surfing became a manifestation of American counter‐cultural political movements of the 1960s and 1970s, although others, like deep ecologists, indicate an inherent environmentalism in surfing, which makes surfing an important tool in developing an ecologically mature ‘self’. The evolution of surf culture, however, presents complexities to these representations; the commodification of surfing introduces contradictions to surfing as ecologically benign. Technological advances, while dramatically changing the face of surfing, have also had significant impacts on the environment. Surfparks, world travel, and the construction of surfboards bring to light not only the complications of an environmentally conscious surfer, but also the complexities which all humans face as ecological actors. Surfing may lead to an ecological ethic, but at what cost to the environment? Using the critical theory of political ecology, this research aims to illuminate the contradictory relationship between representations of surfing and the environment.
From Research to Application: Management Implications from Studies of Urban River Channel Adjustment
Authors: Chin Anne , Gregory Ken
Published: December 2008

Since the major article by Wolman in 1967, investigations of river channel change have identified implications for future management. Whereas hard engineering methods originally dominated management of urban drainage, they are now complemented by a range of newer methods collectively constituting a more holistic approach. These methods address at least five concerns: location of urban areas with implications for land‐use planning; retention of precipitation; delay of runoff; management of the effects of runoff within urban areas; and planning for downstream consequences. A conceptual model illustrates the ways in which these methods change process dynamics and affect channel morphology. Spatial variations in process dynamics can be visualized in terms of relational, process, connectivity, and extrinsic drivers. Analysis of empirical studies from a range of world areas shows 47 that make explicit management recommendations. These recommendations, together with results of previous research, provide the basis for a checklist protocol to aid decision‐making by river managers.
Cultural Policy as Regeneration Approach in Western Cities: A Case Study of Liverpool's RopeWalks
Authors: Lee Chang Bin
Published: December 2008

As the definition of cultural policy in the discourse of urban regeneration gradually becomes fragmented and very broad, this article attempts to come to terms with the width of cultural approaches that have been employed in post‐industrial cities. An examination of urban regeneration through cultural policy reveals that most cultural approaches can be classified into one or more of four general types: high‐profile projects, civic revitalisation, cultural industries and urban heritage. Each of these cultural approaches reflects different concepts concerning the nature of urban regeneration. All four cultural policy approaches make comparisons based on the characteristics of their physical construction and social activities. This article further turns to a critical examination of the strength and validity of cultural industries as a type of cultural policy approach used in the RopeWalks area in Liverpool, England.
The Maquiladora Industry and Migration in Mexico: A Survey of Literature
Authors: Kohout Michal
Published: December 2008

I survey the literature, which analyzes the relationship between the maquiladora industry and migration in Mexico. The maquiladora industry is an export processing program, which has grown to become one of Mexico's most important economic activities. It was expanded from its birthplace along the United States–Mexico border to Mexico's interior states, partly to absorb surplus labor and deter migration. I divide the literature into three main categories dealing with internal migration, migration to the United States, and gender issues. I find that despite a wide range of methodological and theoretical perspectives, there are generally three views on the industry's effect on migration. The optimistic view credits the industry with curbing migration; the neutral view is cautious about the maquiladora industry's long‐term sustainability as a development project that can affect migration; and the pessimistic view blames the industry's development model for Mexico's economic problems and higher emigration rates. I conclude that more study is needed to update the existing work, and to demystify today's polarized political and economic rhetoric, especially in the United States, concerning the relationship between development and migration.
Characterization of a whole, inactivated influenza (H5N1) vaccine
Authors: Tada Yoshikazu
Published: December 2008

Objectives  Effective vaccines against the highly pathogenic influenza A/H5N1 virus are being developed worldwide. In Japan, two adjuvanted, inactivated, whole‐virion influenza vaccines were recently developed and licensed as mock‐up, pre‐pandemic vaccine formulations by the Ministry of Health and Labor Welfare of Japan. During the vaccine design and development process, various obstacles were overcome and, in this report, we introduce the non clinical production, immunogenicity data in human and development process that was associated with egg‐derived adjuvanted, inactivated, whole‐virion influenza A (H5N1) vaccine.

Design  Pilot lots of H5N1 vaccine were produced using the avirulent H5N1 reference strain A/Vietnam/1194/2004 (H5N1) NIBRG‐14 and administered following adsorption with aluminum hydroxide as an adjuvant. Quality control and formulation stability tests were performed before clinical trials were initiated (phase I‐III). The research foundation for microbial diseases of Osaka University (BIKEN) carried out vaccine production, quality control, stability testing and the phase I clinical trial in addition to overseeing the licensing of this vaccine. Mitsubishi Chemical Safety Institute Ltd. carried out the non clinical pharmacological toxicity and safety studies and the Japanese medical association carried out the phase II/III trials. Phase I‐III trials took place in 2006.

Results  The production processes were well controlled by established tests and validations. Vaccine quality was confirmed by quality control, stability and pre‐clinical tests, and the vaccine was approved as a mock‐up, pre‐pandemic vaccine by the Ministry of Health and Labor Welfare of Japan.

Conclusions  Numerous safety and efficacy procedures were carried out prior to the approval of the described vaccine formulation. Some of these procedures were of particular importance e.g., vaccine development, validation, and quality control tests that included strict monitoring of the hemagglutinin (HA) content of the vaccine formulations. Improving vaccine productivity, shortening the production period and improving antigen yield of the avirulent vaccine strains were also considered important vaccine development criteria.
Glutamine Nitrogen and Ammonium Nitrogen Supplied as a Nitrogen Source Is Not Converted into Nitrate Nitrogen of Plant Tissues of Hydroponically Grown Pak‐Choi (Brassica chinensis L.)
Authors: Wang H.‐J. , Wu L.‐H. , Tao Q.‐N. , Miller D.D. , Welch R.M.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  Many vegetables, especially leafy vegetables, accumulate NO−3‐N in their edible portions. High nitrate levels in vegetables constitute a health hazard, such as cancers and blue baby syndrome. The aim of this study was to determine if (1) ammonium nitrogen (NH+4‐N) and glutamine‐nitrogen (Gln‐N) absorbed by plant roots is converted into nitrate‐nitrogen of pak‐choi (Brassica chinensis L.) tissues, and (2) if nitrate‐nitrogen (NO−3‐N) accumulation and concentration of pak‐choi tissues linearly increase with increasing NO−3‐N supply when grown in nutrient solution. In experiment 1, 4 different nitrogen treatments (no nitrogen, NH+4‐N, Gln‐N, and NO−3‐N) with equal total N concentrations in treatments with added N were applied under sterile nutrient medium culture conditions. In experiment 2, 5 concentrations of N (from 0 to 48 mM), supplied as NO−3‐N in the nutrient solution, were tested. The results showed that Gln‐N and NH+4‐N added to the nutrient media were not converted into nitrate‐nitrogen of plant tissues. Also, NO−3‐N accumulation in the pak‐choi tissues was the highest when plants were supplied 24 mM NO−3‐N in the media. The NO−3‐N concentration in plant tissues was quadratically correlated to the NO−3‐N concentration supplied in the nutrient solution.
Yogurt Fermentation in the Presence of Starch–Lipid Composite
Authors: Singh M. , Kim S.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  The fermentation of yogurt in the presence of 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% starch–lipid composite (SLC) was investigated. The pH, viscosity, and morphology of the mix were monitored during the fermentation process. The rate of drop in pH with time during incubation was not affected by the addition of SLC. However, it was found that the presence of SLC caused faster aggregation, which was clearly evidenced by the viscosity variation during the process of fermentation. An examination of the morphologies confirmed that aggregation occurred earlier in the presence of SLC and SLC did not form phase‐separated domains. This study concludes that SLC would serve as a good additive (fat replacer and stabilizer) for the production of yogurt.
Profile of Volatile Compounds in 11 Brandies by Headspace Solid‐Phase Microextraction Followed by Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Y. , Xu Y. , Li J. , Fan W. , Jiang W.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  A headspace solid‐phase microextraction (HS‐SPME) method coupled with gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) was applied for the qualitative or semiquantitative characterization of brandy volatiles. SPME variables (SPME fiber, extraction temperature and time, and ethanol concentration) were optimized. A total of 144 compounds were from the brandies' volatiles, tentatively identified or identified by comparing mass spectra and retention indices of the standards or from literature. Of these, 57 are common to 11 brandies. They were mainly represented by esters and alcohols, such as 2‐methyl propanol, 3‐methyl butanol, 1‐hexanol, ethyl octanoate, and ethyl decanoate, which were quantitatively determined. Chromatographic peaks were integrated using selective ion method (SIM) and the semiquantitative data analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA) to study relationships between volatile composition and brandy. Eleven brandies were differentiated into 3 groups: 1 for Hennessy VSOP and XO samples, 1 for Changyu PEGASE VSOP and XO‐1, 2, 3 samples, and the other for Changyu PEGASE brandy and VO, Taro brandy, Baiyang River brandy, and Wealth XO samples. The classification of groups is consistent with the brandy samples by variety and grade.
An Improved Method of Microencapsulation of Probiotic Bacteria for Their Stability in Acidic and Bile Conditions during Storage
Authors: Ding W.K. , Shah N.P.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  The purpose of this study was to develop a method for applying an extra coating of palm oil and poly‐L‐lysine (POPL) to alginate (ALG) microcapsules to enhance the survival of probiotic bacteria. Eight strains of probiotic bacteria including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium longum, L. salivarius, L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, B. lactis type Bl‐O4, and B. lactis type Bi‐07 were encapsulated using alginate alone or alginate with POPL. Electron microscopy was used to measure the size of the microcapsules and to determine their surface texture. To assess if the addition of POPL improved the viability of probiotic bacteria in acidic conditions, both ALG and POPL microcapsules were inoculated into pH 2.0 MRS broths and their viability was assessed over a 2‐h incubation period. Two bile salts including oxgall bile salt and taurocholic acid were used to test the bile tolerance of probiotic bacteria entrapped in ALG and POPL microcapsules. To assess the porosity and the ability of the microcapsule to hold small molecules in an aqueous environment a water‐soluble fluorescent dye, 6‐carboxyflourescin (6 FAM), was encapsulated and its release was monitored using a UV spectrophotometer.

 The results indicated that coating the microcapsules with POPL increased the overall size of the capsules by an average of 3 μm ± 0.67. However, microcapsules with added POPL had a much smoother surface texture when examined under an electron microscope. The results also indicated that the addition of POPL to microcapsules improved the average viability of probiotic bacteria by > 1 log CFU/mL when compared to ALG microcapsules at 2 h of exposure to acidic conditions. However, similar plate counts were observed between ALG and POPL microcapsules when exposed to bile salts. This suggests that an extra coating of POPL could be readily broken down by bile salts that are commonly found in the lower gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Upon testing the porosity of the microcapsules, findings suggest that POPL microcapsules were less porous and hold 52.2% more fluorescent dye over a 6‐wk storage period.
Laser Scanning System for Real‐Time Mapping of Fiber Formations in Meat Analogues
Authors: Ranasinghesagara J. , Hsieh F.‐H. , Huff H. , Yao G.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  High moisture extrusion has been used to produce vegetable meat analogues that resemble real animal meat and can provide significant health benefits. Since visual and textural properties are key factors for consumer acceptance, assessing fiber formation in the extruded products is important for quality control purpose. Recently, we developed a nondestructive photon migration method to quantify fiber formation in meat analogues. In this study, we implemented this technique in a real‐time optical scanning system. This system can scan the entire sample area in real‐time and provide 2‐dimensional maps to visualize the degree of fiber formation and fiber orientation in the sample. The new system has a potential to provide a fast, nondestructive means for online monitoring of the fiber formation in meat analogues.
Stability of Green Tea Catechins in Commercial Tea Leaves during Storage for 6 Months
Authors: Friedman Mendel , Levin C.E. , Lee S.‐U. , Kozukue N.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  To help meet the needs of consumers, producers of dietary tea products, and researchers for information on health‐promoting tea ingredients, we determined by HPLC 7 catechins [(−)‐epigallocatechin (EGC), (−)‐catechin (C), (+)‐epicatechin (EC), (−)‐epigallocatechin 3‐gallate (EGCG), (−)‐gallocatechin 3‐gallate (GCG), (−)‐epicatechin 3‐gallate (ECG), and (−)‐catechin 3‐gallate (CG)] in samples of 8 commercial green tea leaves of unknown history sold as tea bags in the United States, Korea, and Japan. The samples were stored at 20 °C and sampled at 1 wk and 1, 2, 4, and 6 mo. The following ranges in the initial values (0 controls) were observed (in mg/g tea leaves): EGC and C, 0 to trace amounts; EC, 1.9 to 21.1; EGCG, 13.3 to 113.0; GCG, 0.2 to 1.6; ECG, 5.7 to 50.5; CG 0.5 to 3.7; total catechins 36.5 to 169.7. Statistical analysis of the results and plots of changes in individual and total catechin levels as a function of storage time indicate a progressive decrease in the content in the total levels, most of which is due to losses in the most abundant catechins, EGCG and ECG. Possible mechanisms of degradations of catechins during storage and the possible significance of the results to consumers of tea are discussed.
What’s Wrong With These People? Clinicians’ Views of Clinical Couples
Authors: Ro Hye‐Sun , Wampler Richard S.
Published: December 2008

Marriage and family therapy (MFT) faculty and graduate students rated the “typical” or predictable behaviors of husbands or wives coming for therapy using the Georgia Marriage Q‐sort. Scores were compared with previously published scores for both “ideal” couples (i.e., showing positive behaviors, attitudes, and problem‐solving skills) and a sample of 136 nonclinical, community couples. A review of correlations between MFT raters’ scores for clients and the scores for “ideal” or actual community husbands or wives indicated that clinicians have negative views of both clinical husbands and wives. Such negative views of clinical husbands and wives are particularly marked in scores by MFT faculty. MFT students had a similarly negative view of clinical husbands, but such views were not evident for clinical wives. Recommendations for MFT training and implications for future research are discussed.
The Cultural Context Model: How Does it Facilitate Couples’ Therapeutic Change?
Authors: Hernández Pilar , Siegel Andrew , Almeida Rhea
Published: December 2008

This study examines how therapeutic change in couples is facilitated in the Cultural Context Model based on the model’s identified family processes: critical consciousness, empowerment, and accountability. Participants included four female therapists and three couples who sought treatment voluntarily, two heterosexual couples, and one lesbian couple with diverse class and ethnic backgrounds who had spent at least 12 months receiving services at the Institute for Family Services and who were compliant with treatment. Videotaped sessions were analyzed by coding descriptive data using a constant comparative analysis method. An analysis of therapeutic interventions and clients’ changes showed that the model works in four realms: conversational, behavioral, ritual, and community building.
Spirituality and Relationship: A Holistic Analysis of How Couples Cope With Diabetes
Authors: Cattich John , Knudson‐Martin Carmen
Published: December 2008

This study explores how couples’ spirituality and relationship processes holistically interact to inform diabetes management. Qualitative analysis of interviews with 20 heterosexual couples identified five spiritual coping styles based on the spiritual meaning they ascribed to the situation and the nature of their relationships with God and each other: (a) opportunists approach the illness as an opportunity for growth; (b) mutual problem solvers collaborate with their partners to respond to their disease; (c) individualistic problem solvers take personal responsibility for managing their disease; (d) accepters endure their disease; and (e) victims take a hopeless, discouraged approach. Results suggest that spirituality and couple communication and problem‐solving patterns appear intertwined and integral to the practice of family therapy.
Reconstructed Streamflows for the Headwaters of the Wind River, Wyoming, United States1
Authors: Watson Thomas A. , Anthony Barnett F. , Gray Stephen T. , Tootle Glenn A.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Tree rings offer a means to extend observational records of streamflow by hundreds of years, but dendrohydrological techniques are not regularly applied to small tributary and headwaters gages. Here we explore the potential for extending three such gage records on small streams in the Wind River drainage of central Wyoming, United States. Using core samples taken from Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), piñon pine (Pinus edulis), and limber pine (Pinus flexilis) at 38 sites, we were able to reconstruct streamflows for the headwaters of the Wind River back to 1672 AD or earlier. The streamflow reconstructions for Bull Lake Creek above Bull Lake; the Little Popo Agie River near Lander, Wyoming; and Wind River near Dubois, Wyoming explained between 40% and 64% of the observed variance, and these extended records performed well in a variety of statistical verification tests. The full reconstructions show pronounced inter‐annual variability in streamflow, and these proxy records also point to the prevalence of severe, sustained droughts in this region. These reconstructions indicate that the 20th Century was relatively wet compared to previous centuries, and actual gage records may capture only a limited subset of potential natural variability in this area. Further analyses reveal how tree‐ring based reconstructions for small tributary and headwaters gages can be strongly influenced by the length and quality of calibration records, but this work also demonstrates how the use of a spatially extensive network of tree‐ring sites can improve the quality of these types of reconstructions.
Using SWAT to Model Streamflow in Two River Basins With Ground and Satellite Precipitation Data1
Authors: Tobin Kenneth J. , Bennett Marvin E.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Both ground rain gauge and remotely sensed precipitation (Next Generation Weather Radar – NEXRAD Stage III) data have been used to support spatially distributed hydrological modeling. This study is unique in that it utilizes and compares the performance of National Weather Service (NWS) rain gauge, NEXRAD Stage III, and Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission (TRMM) 3B42 (Version 6) data for the hydrological modeling of the Middle Nueces River Watershed in South Texas and Middle Rio Grande Watershed in South Texas and northern Mexico. The hydrologic model chosen for this study is the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), which is a comprehensive, physical‐based tool that models watershed hydrology and water quality within stream reaches. Minor adjustments to selected model parameters were applied to make parameter values more realistic based on results from previous studies. In both watersheds, NEXRAD Stage III data yields results with low mass balance error between simulated and actual streamflow (±13%) and high monthly Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency coefficients (NS > 0.60) for both calibration (July 1, 2003 to December 31, 2006) and validation (2007) periods. In the Middle Rio Grande Watershed NEXRAD Stage III data also yield robust daily results (time averaged over a three‐day period) with NS values of (0.60‐0.88). TRMM 3B42 data generate simulations for the Middle Rio Grande Watershed of variable qualtiy (MBE = +13 to −16%; NS = 0.38‐0.94; RMSE = 0.07‐0.65), but greatly overestimates streamflow during the calibration period in the Middle Nueces Watershed. During the calibration period use of NWS rain gauge data does not generate acceptable simulations in both watersheds. Significantly, our study is the first to successfully demonstrate the utility of satellite‐estimated precipitation (TRMM 3B42) in supporting hydrologic modeling with SWAT; thereby, potentially extending the realm (between 50°N and 50°S) where remotely sensed precipitation data can support hydrologic modeling outside of regions that have modern, ground‐based radar networks (i.e., much of the third world).
Modeling fiber interactions in semiconcentrated fiber suspensions
Authors: Férec J. , Ausias G. , Heuzey M. C. , Carreau P. J.
Published: December 2008

A set of rheological equations is developed for semiconcentrated suspensions of rigid fibers in a Newtonian fluid taking into account hydrodynamic and fiber-fiber interactions. The force generated by the fiber interactions is modeled using a linear hydrodynamic friction coefficient proportional to the relative velocity at the contact point, and weighted by the probability for contacts to occur. The equation of evolution of the second-order orientation tensor, containing advection and diffusion terms due to fiber interactions, is derived to predict fiber orientation under flow. The well known fourth-order orientation tensor, related to the hydrodynamic contribution, and a newly proposed fourth-order interaction tensor are used to evaluate the total stress in the composite. A linear and a quadratic closure approximation are proposed to describe the fourth-order interaction tensor. Results are presented using the quadratic form, which is found to be more accurate than the linear one. The model is shown to describe well simple shear data of suspensions of glass fibers in a Newtonian polybutene. Moreover, fiber orientation and the average number of contacts per fiber are predicted. The newly proposed interaction coefficient varies with fiber orientation, which appears to be realistic.
Shear flow induced microstructure of a synthetic mesophase pitch
Authors: Kundu Santanu , Grecov Dana , Ogale Amod A. , Rey Alejandro D.
Published: December 2008

Carbon fibers and composites derived from mesophase pitch exhibit ultrahigh stiffness and thermal conductivity due to a high degree of graphitic content, which is generated by the liquid crystalline state of the precursor and the molecular orientation that is developed during melt processing steps. To understand the flow and its effect on microstructure, this paper presents an integrated experimental and modeling approach for a synthetic discotic mesophase pitch (AR-HP). Careful control of shear rate and strain was exercised throughout the rheological studies. Wide-angle x-ray diffraction studies were conducted on carefully solidified rheological specimens to obtain azimuthal profiles for layer plane orientation. Cross-polarized microscopy was conducted in the reflected mode using a first-order red plate to examine the orientation in three orthogonal planes. Under the influence of steady shear, the microstructure of mesophase pitch became flow-aligned, which is similar to the fibrous structure reported in the literature. Transient stress response, however, displayed a nonmonotonic behavior. Microscopic observations indicate that the local maximum in the shear stress is likely caused by the deformation of the initial microstructure. To develop a better understanding of these complex flow dynamics, simulations based on the Landau–de Gennes nematodynamics adapted to discotic mesophases were performed, and a qualitative agreement between simulations and experiments was found. The experimentally obtained rheostructural results and the numerical simulations provide a systematic understanding of flow-microstructure relationships during transient and steady shear flow.
Acute Parvovirus B19 Infection Frequently Causes False-Positive Results in Epstein-Barr Virus- and Herpes Simplex Virus-Specific Immunoglobulin M Determinations Done on the Liaison Platform
Authors: Berth Mario , Bosmans Eugene
Published: December 2008

During an outbreak of parvovirus B19 we collected serum samples from 68 nonpregnant patients in the region of Antwerp (Belgium). Fifty-seven (84%) of the parvovirus B19 immunoglobulin M (IgM)-positive sera had a positive result for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) IgM by Liaison testing, 61 (90%) had a positive result for herpes simplex virus (HSV) IgM, 20 (29%) samples were positive for cytomegalovirus IgM, and 15 (22%) had a positive result for
Borrelia burgdorferi
sensu lato IgM. As assay interference was suspected, sera were further investigated by using additional infectious-disease serology tests and by performing various interference elimination procedures. We could show that the EBV IgM and HSV IgM results were false positives due to aspecific IgM reactions with the solid phase. All samples were also analyzed by a modified Liaison EBV IgM assay, based on the addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone and polyvinyl alcohol to the dilution buffer, which partially eliminated this type of assay interference. Although the Liaison is a very convenient, automated immunoassay platform, this study demonstrates the potential for improvement of mainly the EBV IgM and HSV IgM tests.
Ecology, Genetic Diversity, and Phylogeographic Structure of Andes Virus in Humans and Rodents in Chile
Authors: Medina Rafael A. , Torres-Perez Fernando , Galeno Hector , Navarrete Maritza , Vial Pablo A. , Palma R. Eduardo , Ferres Marcela , Cook Joseph A. , Hjelle Brian
Published: December 2008

Andes virus (ANDV) is the predominant etiologic agent of hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) in southern South America. In Chile, serologically confirmed human hantavirus infections have occurred throughout a wide latitudinal distribution extending from the regions of Valparaíso (32 to 33°S) to Aysén (46°S) in southern Patagonia. In this study, we found seropositive rodents further north in the Coquimbo region (30°S) in Chile. Rodent seroprevalence was 1.4%, with
Oligoryzomys longicaudatus
displaying the highest seroprevalence (5.9%), followed by
Abrothrix longipilis
(1.9%) and other species exhibiting ≤0.6% seropositivity. We sequenced partial ANDV small (S) segment RNA from 6 HCPS patients and 32 rodents of four different species collected throughout the known range of hantavirus infection in Chile. Phylogenetic analyses showed two major ANDV South (ANDV Sout) clades, congruent with two major Chilean ecoregions, Mediterranean (Chilean matorral [shrubland]) and Valdivian temperate forest. Human and rodent samples grouped according to geographic location. Phylogenetic comparative analyses of portions of S and medium segments (encoding glycoproteins Gn and Gc) from a subset of rodent specimens exhibited similar topologies, corroborating two major ANDV Sout clades in Chile and suggesting that yet unknown factors influence viral gene flow and persistence throughout the two Chilean ecoregions. Genetic algorithms for recombination detection identified recombination events within the S segment. Molecular demographic analyses showed that the virus is undergoing purifying selection and demonstrated a recent exponential growth in the effective number of ANDV Sout infections in Chile that correlates with the increased number of human cases reported. Although we determined virus sequences from four rodent species, our results confirmed
O. longicaudatus
as the primary ANDV Sout reservoir in Chile. While evidence of geographic differentiation exists, a single cosmopolitan lineage of ANDV Sout remains the sole etiologic agent for HCPS in Chile.
Discovery of a Novel Single-Stranded DNA Virus from a Sea Turtle Fibropapilloma by Using Viral Metagenomics
Authors: Ng Terry Fei Fan , Manire Charles , Borrowman Kelly , Langer Tammy , Ehrhart Llewellyn , Breitbart Mya
Published: December 2008

Viral metagenomics, consisting of viral particle purification and shotgun sequencing, is a powerful technique for discovering viruses associated with diseases with no definitive etiology, viruses that share limited homology with known viruses, or viruses that are not culturable. Here we used viral metagenomics to examine viruses associated with sea turtle fibropapillomatosis (FP), a debilitating neoplastic disease affecting sea turtles worldwide. By means of purifying and shotgun sequencing the viral community directly from the fibropapilloma of a Florida green sea turtle, a novel single-stranded DNA virus, sea turtle tornovirus 1 (STTV1), was discovered. The single-stranded, circular genome of STTV1 was approximately 1,800 nucleotides in length. STTV1 has only weak amino acid level identities (25%) to chicken anemia virus in short regions of its genome; hence, STTV1 may represent the first member of a novel virus family. A total of 35 healthy turtles and 27 turtles with FP were tested for STTV1 using PCR, and only 2 turtles severely afflicted with FP were positive. The affected turtles were systemically infected with STTV1, since STTV1 was found in blood and all major organs. STTV1 exists as a quasispecies, with several genome variants identified in the fibropapilloma of each positive turtle, suggesting rapid evolution of this virus. The STTV1 variants were identical over the majority of their genomes but contained a hypervariable region with extensive divergence. This study demonstrates the potential of viral metagenomics for discovering novel viruses directly from animal tissue, which can enhance our understanding of viral evolution and diversity.
Treatment of Chronic Viral Hepatitis in Woodchucks by Prolonged Intrahepatic Expression of Interleukin-12
Authors: Crettaz Julien , Otano Itziar , Ochoa Laura , Benito Alberto , Paneda Astrid , Aurrekoetxea Igor , Berraondo Pedro , Rodríguez-Madoz Juan Roberto , Astudillo Aurora , Kreppel Florian , Kochanek Stefan , Ruiz Juan , Menne Stephan , Prieto Jesus , Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza Gloria
Published: December 2008

Chronic hepatitis B is a major cause of liver-related death worldwide. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) induction accompanies viral clearance in chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Here, we tested the therapeutic potential of IL-12 gene therapy in woodchucks chronically infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV), an infection that closely resembles chronic hepatitis B. The woodchucks were treated by intrahepatic injection of a helper-dependent adenoviral vector encoding IL-12 under the control of a liver-specific RU486-responsive promoter. All woodchucks with viral loads below 10
10
viral genomes (vg)/ml showed a marked and sustained reduction of viremia that was accompanied by a reduction in hepatic WHV DNA, a loss of e antigen and surface antigen, and improved liver histology. In contrast, none of the woodchucks with higher viremia levels responded to therapy. The antiviral effect was associated with the induction of T-cell immunity against viral antigens and a reduction of hepatic expression of Foxp3 in the responsive animals. Studies were performed in vitro to elucidate the resistance to therapy in highly viremic woodchucks. These studies showed that lymphocytes from healthy woodchucks or from animals with low viremia levels produced gamma interferon (IFN-γ) upon IL-12 stimulation, while lymphocytes from woodchucks with high viremia failed to upregulate IFN-γ in response to IL-12. In conclusion, IL-12-based gene therapy is an efficient approach to treat chronic hepadnavirus infection in woodchucks with viral loads below 10
10
vg/ml. Interestingly, this therapy is able to break immunological tolerance to viral antigens in chronic WHV carriers.
A systematic review of physical activity promotion in primary care office settings.
Authors: Eaton C B , Menard L M
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of physical activity promotion in primary care office settings. DESIGN: Systematic review of clinical trials in which the efficacy of physical activity promotion was investigated in a primary care office setting with at least one month of follow up. SUBJECTS: A total of 13,981 adults, aged 17-85+, were included from 203 practices in eight trials assessing physical activity promotion in primary care office settings. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated comparing the number of participants who increased their physical activity or were active at follow up in the intervention group with a control group for each study. RESULTS: Five of eight trials where positive with statistically significant results (range 0.91-6.56), but significant biases or limited clinical relevance of the outcomes were found in all trials. Short term trials of less than one year (four of four were positive), single-risk-factor trials (three of three were positive), randomised clinical trials (two of three were positive), and those assessing moderate levels of physical activity (three of four were positive) were most likely to find benefit. Only one of four trials lasting longer than a year were positive. CONCLUSION: There is limited evidence from well designed trials that office based physical activity promotion in primary care settings is efficacious in promoting changes in physical activity that could conceivably have lasting clinical benefits.
Application of a standard test to the in vitro performance of mouthguards.
Authors: Greasley A , Imlach G , Karet B
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE: To use a simulated upper jaw made from a rubber arch containing replaceable ceramic teeth and a renewable composite ceramic jawbone to compare the effectiveness of seven custom made mouthguard designs and a "boil and bite" mouthguard. METHODS: Following an earlier development of a standard impact test using a selection of projectile shapes and energies, the most sensitive conditions were selected. These were then applied to a series of six guards constructed in ethylene vinyl acetate and styrene butadiene. The guards were constructed to reflect possible variations in both design and materials. RESULTS: Significant differences between the mouthguard performances were observed in response to the impact conditions selected. All the custom made designs gave better performance than the "boil and bite" mouthguard. CONCLUSIONS: The differences observed indicated that the standard test should be sensitive enough to be used as an assessment procedure for the approval of the manufacture of these safety devices. A sequence of tests on eight identical mouthguards selected from a batch of 12, based on the best design, gave remarkably consistent results, indicating that both the manufacturing technique and the test method are reliable. The features of the best design should be incorporated into the current "best practice" for the construction of these devices.
Perception of pain after resistance exercise.
Authors: Koltyn K F , Arbogast R W
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES: The main objective was to assess the influence of resistance exercise on pain threshold and pain ratings. Secondary objectives included measuring state anxiety, body awareness, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate responses. METHODS: Pressure (3 kg force) was applied to the middle digit of the left hand for two minutes using a Forgione-Barber pain stimulator before and after (five minute and 15 minutes) resistance exercise and quiet rest. Resistance exercise consisted of 45 minutes of lifting three sets of 10 repetitions at 75% of an individual's one repetition maximum. Quiet rest consisted of sitting quietly in a room free from distractions. RESULTS: Data were analysed by repeated measures analysis of variance for multifactor experiments. Pain threshold was significantly higher (p<0.05) and pain ratings were significantly lower (p<0.05) five minutes after resistance exercise. Changes in pain perception were accompanied by changes in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and body awareness after exercise. CONCLUSION: A single bout of resistance exercise is capable of modifying the sensation of experimentally induced pain.
A five year physiological case study of an Olympic runner.
Authors: Jones A M
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE: To study physiological changes caused by long term endurance training in a world class female distance runner, and to compare these changes with alterations in 3000 m running performance. METHODS: The subject underwent regular physiological assessment during the period 1991-1995. Physiological measures made included body composition, maximal oxygen uptake (VO2MAX), running economy, and lactate threshold. In addition, the running speed at VO2MAX was estimated. Test protocols, laboratory equipment, and laboratory techniques used were the same for each test session. RESULTS: The 3000 m race performance improved by 8% from 1991 to 1993 after which it stabilised. In contrast, VO2MAX fell from 1991 (73 ml/kg/min) to 1993 (66 ml/kg/min). Submaximal physiological variables such as lactate threshold (from 15.0 to 18.0 km/h) and running economy (from 53 ml/kg/min to 48 ml/kg/min at 16.0 km/h) improved over the course of the study. Despite no increase in VO2MAX, the reduction in the oxygen cost of submaximal running caused the estimated running speed at VO2MAX to increase from 19.0 km/h in 1991 to 20.4 km/h in 1995. CONCLUSIONS: Improvement in 3000 m running performance was not caused by an increase in VO2MAX. Rather, the extensive training programme adopted, together perhaps with physical maturation, resulted in improvements in submaximal fitness factors such as running economy and lactate threshold. These adaptations improved the running speed estimated to be associated with VO2MAX, and resulted in improved 3000 m running performance.
Continuity and change in sporting and leisure time physical activities during adolescence.
Authors: Dovey S M , Reeder A I , Chalmers D J
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES: To map the pattern of involvement in physical activities by adolescents at ages 15 and 18 years. METHODS: Data from a longitudinal cohort study were used. Participants in the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study provided information about their sporting and similar physical activities during the 12 months before study assessments at ages 15 and 18 years. RESULTS: Total participation time at age 18 was 63% of that reported at age 15. Mean participation time for girls decreased from 7.5 hours a week to 4.3 hours a week (p<0.001) whereas for boys it decreased from 11.7 hours a week to 7.8 hours a week (p<0.001). At both ages, boys spent significantly more time in physical activity than girls. More time in physical activity at age 18 was reported by participants who judged their fitness higher than their peers (odds ratio (OR) 1.7: 1.2, 2.5), those who played sport for their school (OR 1.8: 1.3, 2.4), and those reporting very good self assessed health (OR 1.4: 1.0, 1.8) at age 15. The overall median number of activities decreased from seven at age 15 to three at 18. Boys were involved in more activities at age 15 but there was no sex difference at age 18 in the number of different activities reported. CONCLUSION: Although involvement in school sporting activities and high levels of fitness in mid-adolescence may protect against marked reductions in physical activity in late adolescence, social and organisational factors are also likely to be important. There is a need for innovative approaches to health promotion which will encourage adolescents to maintain higher levels of physical activity after they leave school.