bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parametric analysis of constant‐moment zone length in four point bending of reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Galić M. , Marović P. , Harapin A.
Published: May 2013

This paper describes performed numerical parametric analyses of constant‐moment zone length in four point bending of reinforced concrete structures by a developed three‐dimensional numerical material model for analyzing reinforced concrete structures. The model is defined by elementary material parameters which can be obtained by a standard uniaxial test so that the very complex behaviour of reinforced concrete structures can be described simply and effectively but with a sufficiently accurate model. The aim is to reproduce and to compare obtained results with numerical two‐dimensional model by Fantilli et al. and experimental results by Weiss et al. where a constant‐moment zone length is investigated to determine whether the flexural response of reinforced concrete beams is size (length) dependent. Parametric analyses will be performed on normal‐strength concrete (NSC) and high‐strength concrete (HSC) beams with four different constant‐moment zone lengths and two different reinforcement ratios. As the developed model enables a very detailed and precise analysis of reinforced concrete structures until crushing with a high accuracy, we hope to confirm Fantilli et al. results what could lead to the improvement of Eurocode 2 where the size effect on the structural response of compressed concrete is not taken into account.
Simulation of pulse laser welding of a thin metal and comparison with other heat sources
Authors: Arai T.
Published: May 2013

Laser welding by a pulse beam became recently more common than the welding by continuous wave in the case of performed precise and accurate welding of sheet metal. However, the exact theoretical analysis of laser welding by a pulse beam was not conducted. In most of the cases, only the processing results of pulse welding were shown. In laser welding, the internal welding conditions during the processing cannot be observed from the outside. To show more concrete insights of the processing, simulation is one of the effective methods for that purpose. Furthermore, phenomenons which occur insight the material due to one pulse are not understood well. At the present, laser pulse beam processing comes to be required for an exact welding. Thus, the elucidation of the phenomenons helps to understand pulsed welding and will result in a decrease of the sheet metal deformation. This paper describes the processing of pulsed welding by theoretical analysis and simulation. Furthermore, the deformation of the sheet metal which results from the pulsed welding was considered. The welding characteristics were compared in detail using the different continuous wave heat source of circular laser. As a result, it could be shown that in the case of pulse beam welding the heat influence was 70% or less and due to deformations it became 1/10 or less compared to with continuous wave welding.
Heat transfer and stress concentrations in a two‐phase polycrystalline composite structure. Part I: Theoretical modelling of heat transfer
Authors: Sadowski T. , Golewski P.
Published: May 2013

The aim of the paper is a numerical analysis of heat transfer in polycrystalline composites, containing metallic or elastic interfaces, i. e. metal‐ceramic composites (MCCs) or ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). An example of MCCs is a two‐phase material composed of brittle grains WC joined by the plastic binder Co. The work focuses also on the description of the heat concentrations in composites due to temperature changes, taking into account the real material internal structure, which includes grain shapes and interfaces. Under thermal loading the heat transfer in MMCs is mainly through metallic interfaces, where the heat flux concentrations occur due to different thermal properties of both phases. They can cause also stress concentrations and act as sources of damage initiators at the binder/carbide grains interfaces. The different contents of the interphase between elastic grains were taken into account in the analysis, starting from the interfaces of the small thickness: 2–4 μm and volume content approximately 10% (e. g. Co), to the higher values up to 30%. The major conclusion is the following: the volume content of the metallic phase (Co binder) and its architecture (spatial distribution) inside the material strongly influences the heat transfer through the composites.
A new approach for second‐order linear matrix descriptor differential equations of Apostol–Kolodner type
Authors: Pantelous A. A. , Karageorgos A. D. , Kalogeropoulos G. I.
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we study a class of linear second‐order matrix descriptor differential equations of Apostol–Kolodner type with constant coefficients. In the new approach, we propose a different transformation from what Kalogeropoulos et al. (2009) have used in their recent paper. However, similarly with them, the Weierstrass canonical form has been considered, and the analytical formula for the solution of this general class is derived naturally for consistent initial conditions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temperature‐induced changes of magnetic resonance relaxation times in the human brain: A postmortem study
Authors: Birkl Christoph , Langkammer Christian , Haybaeck Johannes , Ernst Christina , Stollberger Rudolf , Fazekas Franz , Ropele Stefan
Published: May 2013

Purpose

Magnetic resonance relaxation times of most tissues are expected to depend on temperature, which can impact findings in postmortem magnetic resonance imaging or when using magnetic resonance imaging for relaxation‐based thermometry. The purpose of this study was to investigate the exact temperature dependency of the relaxation times T1, T2, T2*, and the magnetization transfer ratio in different structures of the human brain.

Methods

To prevent fixation and autolysis effects, this study was performed with fresh postmortem brain tissues. Following autopsy, coronal brain slices from five deceased subjects were subjected to relaxometry at 3T in a temperature range between 4°C and 37°C. Heating of the tissue was achieved by flushing the vacuum packed brain slices with water at a predefined temperature.

Results

T1 showed a linear dependency on temperature with the highest temperature coefficient in the cortex (17.4 ms/°C) and the lowest in the white matter (3.4 ms/°C). T2 did not depend on temperature. T2* and magnetization transfer ratio scaled with temperature only in deep gray matter.

Conclusion

The temperature coefficient for T1 is higher than expected from previous reports and varies across brain structures. The coefficients obtained in this study can serve as reference for thermometry or for correcting quantitative postmortem magnetic resonance imaging. Magn Reson Med 71:1575–1580, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longitudinal features of stir bright signal in FSHD1
Authors: Friedman Seth D. , Poliachik Sandra L. , Otto Randolph K. , Carter Gregory T. , Budech Christopher B. , Bird Thomas D. , Miller Daniel G. , Shaw Dennis W.W.
Published: May 2013

Introduction: Magnetic resonance imaging of muscle shows short tau‐inversion recovery (STIR) brightness in autosomal dominant facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD1) suggestive of active inflammation/injury. We measured the longitudinal stability/progression of this potential disease biomarker. Methods: Nine subjects underwent calf MRI imaging over 2 years. Two radiologists evaluated qualitative muscle changes. Results: In 3/9 subjects, calf muscles demonstrated moderate/severe STIR hyperintensity at Time 1 that had progressed to fatty replacement 2 years later (Time 2). In the remaining subjects, moderate/severe muscle STIR abnormalities, when present, were consistent between exams. Mild STIR+ elevations had roughly similar patterns between exams. Conclusions: Moderate/severe STIR hyperintensities often foreshadow fatty replacement over a 2‐year interval. Whether longer time courses are required to observe muscle degeneration and fatty replacement in some subjects remains to be explored. Muscle Nerve 49: 257–260, 2014
Influence of multiple stimuli on the lower critical solution temperature of new cationic poly(N‐acryloyl‐N′‐ethylpiperazine‐co‐N‐isopropylacrylamide) solutions
Authors: Deen G. Roshan , Zhen Quah Li , Hao Mah Chin , Jun Loh Xian
Published: May 2013

New multi‐stimuli responsive cationic copolymers based on N‐acryloyl‐N′‐ethyl piperazine (AcrNEP) and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) were prepared by thermal free‐radical solution polymerization in dioxane at 75 °C. The chemical composition of the copolymers was determined by 1H NMR spectroscopy and was found that the copolymers were slightly rich in NIPAM content than that of AcrNEP. The reactivity of the two monomers for the copolymerization reaction was evaluated by the extended Kelen‐Tüdös method. The distribution of monomer sequence in the copolymer chain was estimated using the terminal copolymerization model. The maximum tendency to alternation (∼ 70%) was at 60 mol % of AcrNEP in the monomer feed. The copolymers were readily soluble in water at room temperature at all compositions and exhibited well‐defined lower critical solution temperature (LCST) phenomenon. The influence of various stimuli such as pH, temperature, simple inorganic salts, and surfactants on the LCST of the copolymers was studied in detail. Simple inorganic salts such as sodium chloride, sodium bromide, and sodium sulfate showed a salting‐out effect while sodium iodide showed a salting‐in effect. The salting‐out coefficient of the salts were calculated using the Sestchenow method, and the salting trend followed the order SO42− > Cl− > Br− > I−. The divalent salt was more effective in lowering the LCST than the monovalent salts. The cationic surfactant hexadecyl trimethylammonium bromide at concentrations above the critical micelle concentration caused a gradual increase in the LCST of the copolymer solutions. The intrinsic viscosity and light scattering behavior of the copolymers in water and in sodium chloride solutions were studied in detail. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1175–1183
What Functional Aspects Explain Patients' Impression of Change after Rehabilitation for Long‐lasting Low Back Pain?
Authors: Anderson Bodil , Lygren Hildegunn , Magnussen Liv Heide , Eide Geir Egil , Strand Liv Inger
Published: May 2013

Background

Physical tests and self‐report measures are being used to measure physical functioning. The latter tends to be preferred in intervention studies.

Purpose

To examine whether the patients' global impression of change (PGIC) after rehabilitation was explained by change in pain, daily functioning, fear‐avoidance of activities and various physical aspects, expecting contribution primarily by the self‐reported measures.

Methods

A test‐retest design, within a prospective cohort study of patients with long‐lasting low back pain. 96 patients were consecutively recruited from an outpatient spine clinic, assessed by three self‐report questionnaires and seven physical tests at inclusion and after 3.5 weeks of multidisciplinary treatment. With PGIC as the dependent variable, linear regression analyses of all variables were performed. The study was approved by the Regional Committee for Medical Research Ethics and the National Data Inspectorate of Norway.

Results

In unadjusted analysis, change in pain, daily functioning and change in six physical tests contributed to the explained variance (R2: 6–24%). In the adjusted analysis, only pain and back endurance strength contributed (adjusted R2: 48%). In the final backward stepwise blockwise analyses, daily functioning and spinal mobility were also found to contribute to the explained variance (R2: 48%). The time span of 3.5 weeks of training is too short to give a lasting effect, but the contribution to explained variance of PGIC of self‐report measures and physical tests were the focus of this study, not the effect of training.

Conclusion

Most measures demonstrated change that was of significance to the patients after rehabilitation. Change in spinal mobility and back strength assessed by physical tests contributed to explain the patients' impression of change after controlling for change in pain and daily life functioning and may seem important to assess in addition to the self‐report measures in intervention studies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spin relaxation length in quantum dot spin LEDs
Authors: Höpfner Henning , Fritsche Carola , Ludwig Arne , Ludwig Astrid , Stromberg Frank , Wende Heiko , Keune Werner , Reuter Dirk , Wieck Andreas D. , Gerhardt Nils C. , Hofmann Martin R.
Published: May 2013

We analyse the spin relaxation length during vertical electron transport in spin light‐emitting diode devices at room temperature. We obtain a spin relaxation length of 27 nm in remanence. When a magnetic field is applied, spin relaxation is significantly reduced during transport to the active region of the device. This results in a nearly doubled spin relaxation length at 2T magnetic field strength.
Steroidal Glycosides with Antiproliferative Activities from Digitalis trojana
Authors: Kirmizibekmez Hasan , Masullo Milena , Festa Michela , Capasso Anna , Piacente Sonia
Published: May 2013

The phytochemical investigation of Digitalis trojana led to the isolation of two cardiac glycosides (1, 2), one pregnane glycoside (3), three furostanol type saponins (4–6), along with three cleroindicins (7–9), four phenylethanoid glycosides (10–13), two flavonoids (14, 15) and two phenolic acid derivatives (16, 17). The structure elucidation of the isolates was carried out by NMR experiments as well as ESI‐MS. The cytotoxic activity of compounds 1–13 against a small panel of cancer cell lines, namely MCF‐7, T98G, HT‐29, PC‐3, A375 and SH‐SY5Y, was investigated. Compounds 1–6 showed antiproliferative activity against human breast MCF‐7 and colon HT‐29 cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 8.3 to 50 μM. In order to understand the mechanism involved in the cell death, the active compounds were tested as pro‐apoptotic agents using propidium iodide staining by flow cytometry method. No significant increase was observed in the apoptosis of the MCF‐7 and HT‐29 cancer cells. Moreover, the effects of the active compounds on cell proliferation were assessed on the same cancer cell lines by cell cycle analysis of DNA content using flow cytometry. No significative changes were observed in the cell cycle of MCF‐7, while significant changes in G2/M cell cycle phase of HT‐29 cells were observed after treatment with digitalin (1), cariensoside (3) and 22‐O‐methylparvispinoside B (6) at 10 μM. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In Vitro Evaluation of Portuguese Propolis and Floral Sources for Antiprotozoal, Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity
Authors: Falcão Soraia I. , Vale Nuno , Cos Paul , Gomes Paula , Freire Cristina , Maes Louis , Vilas‐Boas Miguel
Published: May 2013

Propolis is a beehive product with a very complex chemical composition, used since ancient times in several therapeutic treatments. As a contribution to the improvement of drugs against several tropical diseases caused by protozoa, we screened Portuguese propolis and its potential floral sources Populus x Canadensis and Cistus ladanifer against Plasmodium falciparum, Leishmania infantum, Trypanosoma brucei and Trypanosoma cruzi. The toxicity against MRC‐5 fibroblast cells was evaluated to assess selectivity. The in vitro assays were performed following the recommendations of WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) and revealed moderate activity, with the propolis extracts presenting the relatively highest inhibitory effect against T. brucei. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Trichophyton rubrum and Aspergillus fumigatus was also verified with the better results observed against T. rubrum. The quality of the extracts was controlled by evaluating the phenolic content and antioxidant activity. The observed biological activity variations are associated with the variable chemical composition of the propolis and the potential floral sources under study. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An enhanced technique for automated determination of 15N signatures of N2, (N2+N2O) and N2O in gas samples
Authors: Lewicka‐Szczebak Dominika , Well Reinhard , Giesemann Anette , Rohe Lena , Wolf Ulrike
Published: May 2013

RATIONALE

An enhanced analytical approach for analyzing gaseous products from 15N‐enriched pools has been developed. This technique can be used to quantify nitrous oxide (N2O) and dinitrogen (N2) fluxes from denitrification. It can also help in distinguishing different N2‐ and N2O‐forming processes, such as denitrification, nitrification, anaerobic ammonium oxidation or co‐denitrification.

METHODS

The measurement instrumentation was based on a commercially available automatic preparation system allowing collection and separation of gaseous samples. The sample transfer paths, valves, liquid nitrogen traps, gas chromatography column and open split of the original system were modified. A reduction oven (Cu) was added in order to eliminate oxygen and measure N2O‐N as N2. Gases leaving the separation system entered an isotope ratio mass spectrometer where masses 28N2, 29N2 and 30N2 were measured.

RESULTS

The enhanced technique enabled rapid simultaneous measurement of stable isotope ratios 29N2/28N2 and 30N2/28N2 originating from dinitrogen alone (N2) and from the sum of the denitrification products (N2+N2O) as well as the determination of 15N enrichment in N2O. The 15N fraction in the N pool undergoing N2 and N2O production (15XN) and the contribution of N2 and N2O originating from this pool (d) were determined with satisfactory accuracy of better than 3.3% and 2.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The precision and accuracy of this method were comparable with or better than previously reported for similar measurements. The proposed method allows for the analysis of all quantities within one run, thus reducing the measurement and sample preparation time as well as increasing the reliability of the results. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using historical control information for the design and analysis of clinical trials with overdispersed count data
Authors: Gsteiger Sandro , Neuenschwander Beat , Mercier Francois , Schmidli Heinz
Published: May 2013

Results from clinical trials are never interpreted in isolation. Previous studies in a similar setting provide valuable information for designing a new trial. For the analysis, however, the use of trial‐external information is challenging and therefore controversial, although it seems attractive from an ethical or efficiency perspective. Here, we consider the formal use of historical control data on lesion counts in a multiple sclerosis trial. The approach to incorporating historical data is Bayesian, in that historical information is captured in a prior that accounts for between‐trial variability and hence leads to discounting of historical data. We extend the meta‐analytic‐predictive approach, a random‐effects meta‐analysis of historical data combined with the prediction of the parameter in the new trial, from normal to overdispersed count data of individual‐patient or aggregate‐trial format. We discuss the prior derivation for the lesion mean count in the control group of the new trial for two populations. For the general population (without baseline enrichment), with 1936 control patients from nine historical trials, between‐trial variability was moderate to substantial, leading to a prior effective sample size of about 45 control patients. For the more homogenous population (with enrichment), with 412 control patients from five historical trials, the prior effective sample size was approximately 63 patients. Although these numbers are small relative to the historical data, they are fairly typical in settings where between‐trial heterogeneity is moderate. For phase II, reducing the number of control patients by 45 or by 63 may be an attractive option in many multiple sclerosis trials. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting dependences using domain‐based coupling
Authors: Aryani Amir , Perin Fabrizio , Lungu Mircea , Mahmood Abdun Naser , Nierstrasz Oscar
Published: May 2013

Software dependences play a vital role in programme comprehension, change impact analysis and other software maintenance activities. Traditionally, these activities are supported by source code analysis; however, the source code is sometimes inaccessible or difficult to analyse, as in hybrid systems composed of source code in multiple languages using various paradigms (e.g. object‐oriented programming and relational databases). Moreover, not all stakeholders have adequate knowledge to perform such analyses. For example, non‐technical domain experts and consultants raise most maintenance requests; however, they cannot predict the cost and impact of the requested changes without the support of the developers. We propose a novel approach to predicting software dependences by exploiting the coupling present in domain‐level information. Our approach is independent of the software implementation; hence, it can be used to approximate architectural dependences without access to the source code or the database. As such, it can be applied to hybrid systems with heterogeneous source code or legacy systems with missing source code. In addition, this approach is based solely on information visible and understandable to domain users; therefore, it can be efficiently used by domain experts without the support of software developers. We evaluate our approach with a case study on a large‐scale enterprise system, in which we demonstrate how up to 65% of the source code dependences and 77% of the database dependences are predicted solely based on domain information. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Unique Helicate Comprised of Four Cytosine Nucleobases and Four Metal Entities (PtII, PtII, AuIII, AuI). Implications for the Interactions of Linearly Coordinated Metal Ions with ­Nucleotide Duplexes
Authors: Fusch Gerhard , Zangrando Ennio , Randaccio Lucio , Lippert Bernhard
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Reaction of trans‐[Pt(CH3NH2)2(1‐MeC‐N3)2]X2 (1‐MeC = 1‐methylcytosine; X = NO3– or ClO4–) with Na[AuCl4] in strongly alkaline aqueous solution yields an asymmetrical double helicate containing two central PtII as well as AuIII and AuI atoms, four 1‐methylcytosinato bridges (1‐MeC–‐N3, N4), two terminal methylamine and two bridging methylamido ligands, [Au2Pt2(CH3NH2)2(CH3NH)2(1‐MeC–)4]Cl2·2H2O (2). The four 1‐MeC– ligands, which are pairwise oriented in head‐head fashion, are deprotonated at their N4 positions and cross‐linked by the gold ions. While one of the gold ions, AuI, adopts a linear coordination arrangement, the second, AuIII, is square‐planar and completes its coordination arrangement through two methylamido ligands, which behave as bridging species between AuIII and Pt. As a consequence of deprotonation of the original methylamine ligands, the nitrogen atoms of the CH3NH– bridges have become chiral. The four heavy metals form a diamond‐shaped plane, with an intramolecular AuIII···AuI distance of 3.053(4) Å. On the basis of the structure of cation 2 a new model is proposed how linear transition metal ions (M) might interact with (natural or artificial) nucleobases (L) within a double helix to produce compact M4L4 adducts.
Effect of Bolaform Counterions on the Adsorption of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfonate at the Air/Water Interface
Authors: Zhao Jianxi , Yang Duoping , You Yi
Published: May 2013

The effect of quaternary ammonium‐based bolaform counterions (Bolan‐series where n is the number of carbon atoms between the heads) on the adsorption of sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDDS) at the air/water interface has been studied using surface tension measurements. The results showed that the Bolan counterions strongly interacted with SDDS even at very low concentrations. This reduced the CMC and C20 in the presence of Bolan counterions. The SDDS packed more tightly at the interface under the inducement of Bolan counterions and thus the occupied area per surfactant molecule decreased. Another bolaform counterion series (Bolanph) with a benzene ring attached on each side of the quaternary ammonium heads could further enhance the interaction with SDDS. This is due to the fact that the attached aromatic rings penetrate into the gaps between the surfactant headgroups, which provide an additional association force besides the electrostatic attractions. The present results suggested an approach to construct gemini‐like surfactants depending on the electrostatic attraction between the bolaform counterions and the conventional ionic surfactants or an additional hydrophobic force made by the attached aromatic rings.
Dietary Supplementation of Calcium may Counteract Obesity in Mice Mediated by Changes in Plasma Fatty Acids
Authors: Laraichi Sarah , Parra Pilar , Zamanillo Rocío , El Amarti Ahmed , Palou Andreu , Serra Francisca
Published: May 2013

The scope of this study was to assess the impact of calcium and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on plasma fatty acid profiles and to evaluate potential synergistic effects of both compounds against dietary obesity. Mice separated into five experimental groups were followed: control (C), high‐fat diet (HF), HF with calcium (Ca), HF plus CLA and HF with both Ca and CLA. Plasma metabolites and fatty acids were determined by commercial kits and gas chromatography, respectively. Both dietary calcium and CLA supplementation contributed to lower body fat gain under a HF diet. Maximum efficacy was seen with calcium; no additional effect was associated with the combined treatment with CLA. Plasma leptin, adiponectin and HOMA index were in accordance with an altered glucose/insulin homeostasis in the HF and HF + CLA groups, whereas control levels were attained under Ca‐enriched diets. Plasma fatty acids showed minor changes associated to CLA treatment, but a high impact on PUFA was observed under Ca‐enriched diets. Our results show that the mechanism underlying the anti‐obesity effects of calcium supplementation is mediated mainly by changes in PUFA plasma profile. In addition, the lack of synergy on body weight reduction in combination with associated lipid profiles of calcium and CLA suggests that calcium may interfere with absorption and/or bioactivity of CLA, which can be of relevance when using CLA‐fortified dairy products against human obesity.
Effect of Metal Type on Partial Hydrogenation of Rapeseed Oil‐Derived FAME
Authors: Numwong Natthida , Luengnaruemitchai Apanee , Chollacoop Nuwong , Yoshimura Yuji
Published: May 2013

Supported SiO2 catalysts were studied for the partial hydrogenation of rapeseed oil‐derived fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) for improving its oxidative stability. The effect of metal type: Pt, Pd, and Ni, on catalytic activity and cis–trans selectivity was investigated. Hydrogenation activity was studied in terms of turn over frequency (TOF) of C18:3, C18:2, C18:1, and C18:0 FAME. The highest TOF of C18:3, C18:2, and C18:1 was found for Pd catalyst. However, C18:0 TOF of Pt is higher than that of the Pd catalyst. The higher in C18:0 TOF can explain the low selectivity towards trans‐monounsaturated FAME of the Pt catalyst, which is due to the subsequent hydrogenation of the intermediate trans‐monounsaturated to saturated FAME. On the other hand, Ni showed the lowest TOFs when compared with the Pt and Pd catalysts.
Performance of Regular and Modified Canola and Soybean Oils in Rotational Frying
Authors: Przybylski Roman , Gruczynska Eliza , Aladedunye Felix
Published: May 2013

Canola and soybean oils both regular and with modified fatty acid compositions by genetic modifications and hydrogenation were compared for frying performance. The frying was conducted at 185 ± 5 °C for up to 12 days where French fries, battered chicken and fish sticks were fried in succession. Modified canola oils, with reduced levels of linolenic acid, accumulated significantly lower amounts of polar components compared to the other tested oils. Canola oils generally displayed lower amounts of oligomers in their polar fraction. Higher rates of free fatty acids formation were observed for the hydrogenated oils compared to the other oils, with canola frying shortening showing the highest amount at the end of the frying period. The half‐life of tocopherols for both regular and modified soybean oils was 1–2 days compared to 6 days observed for high‐oleic low‐linolenic canola oil. The highest anisidine values were observed for soybean oil with the maximum reached on the 10th day of frying. Canola and soybean frying shortenings exhibited a faster rate of color formation at any of the frying times. The high‐oleic low‐linolenic canola oil exhibited the greatest frying stability as assessed by polar components, oligomers and non‐volatile carbonyl components formation. Moreover, food fried in the high‐oleic low‐linolenic canola oil obtained the best scores in the sensory acceptance assessment.
Assessment of the requirement for aquaporins in the thylakoid membrane of plant chloroplasts to sustain photosynthetic water oxidation
Authors: Beebo Azeez , Mathai John C. , Schoefs Benoît , Spetea Cornelia
Published: May 2013

Oxygenic photosynthetic organisms use sunlight energy to oxidize water to molecular oxygen. This process is mediated by the photosystem II complex at the lumenal side of the thylakoid membrane. Most research efforts have been dedicated to understanding the mechanism behind the unique water oxidation reactions, whereas the delivery pathways for water molecules into the thylakoid lumen have not yet been studied. The most common mechanisms for water transport are simple diffusion and diffusion facilitated by specialized channel proteins named aquaporins. Calculations using published data for plant chloroplasts indicate that aquaporins are not necessary to sustain water supply into the thylakoid lumen at steady state photosynthetic rates. Yet, arguments for their presence in the plant thylakoid membrane and beneficial action are presented.
Stable complex formation of thylakoidal processing peptidase and PGRL1
Authors: Endow Joshua K. , Inoue Kentaro
Published: May 2013

The thylakoid‐transfer signal is required for energy‐dependent translocation of preproteins into the thylakoid lumen and is removed by the thylakoidal processing peptidase (TPP). PGRL1 is an essential component of antimycin A‐sensitive photosynthetic cyclic electron flow in chloroplasts. Here we report that one of the TPP isoforms, Plsp1, forms a stable complex with PGRL1. Genetic data demonstrate that PGRL1 is not essential for Plsp1 activity in vivo, leading to a possibility that PGRL1 may act as a regulator of TPP.
Optimal Disinfection Times for Needleless Intravenous Connectors
Authors: Smith Judy S. , Irwin Gwen , Viney Mary , Watkins Lynda , Morris Shonnie Pinno , Kirksey Kenn M. , Brown Adama
Published: May 2013

Background: Elimination of catheter-related bloodstream infections is a major focus in health care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Infusion Nurses Society, the optimal time for needleless connector disinfection has not yet been empirically established.

Methods: Using experimental design and established lab procedure, a 0.5 MacFarland suspension was used to inoculate 172 needleless connectors with bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and allowed to dry for 18 hours. Five groups of connectors (n = 27 per group) were disinfected using 70% isopropyl alcohol with friction for 5, 8, 10, 12, and 15 seconds, and flushed with 0.5 mL nonbacteriostatic sterile normal saline onto sheep-blood agar plates for incubation at 35° C for 48 hours. Bacterial growth (1 colony) was noted on 2 negative controls; therefore, a second sample (n = 172) was tested as above using additional precautions of masking, gloving, and gowning. A third group of connectors was tested using a 0.5 MacFarland suspension containing yeast (Candida albicans).

Results: Group 1 showed significant (χ24 = 37.93; P = .00) and strong (Cramér's V = 0.53; P = .00) associations between scrub time and growth status. Although not statistically significant, Groups 2 and 3 demonstrated clinically significant associations between these factors.

Conclusions: Although additional research is warranted, our study showed that disinfection times of 5 and 8 seconds were inadequate for reducing bacterial transfer. However, disinfection times of 10, 12, and 15 seconds resulted in comparable, decreased rates of bacterial migration.
Central Vascular Access Device Guidelines for Pediatric Home-Based Patients: Driving Best Practices
Authors: Kramer Nancy , Doellman Darcy , Curley Michelle , Wall Jill L.
Published: May 2013

Central vascular access device (CVAD) care for infants and children in home settings is challenging due to small catheter sizes, patient activity, and variation in care and maintenance practices. CVADs require detailed care to prevent complications and unnecessary line replacement. Guidelines that address CVAD care and maintenance for pediatric home-based patients do not exist. This article reviews evidence-based central venous catheter maintenance practices for pediatric home care patients.
Pediatric Central Venous Catheter Management: A Review of Current Practice
Authors: Davis Mary Beth Hovda
Published: May 2013

Due to small vessel size, obtaining stable access in pediatric patients is difficult. In addition, because needle stick pain is a concern for patients with chronic illness, central venous catheters are often utilized to provide intravenous treatment. Catheter occlusion is a common complication in pediatric patients and must be addressed to salvage the catheter and ensure successful therapy. The use of fibrinolytics for occlusion treatment have been successful in pediatric populations.
Behind the Closed Door: A Guide and Parents' Comments on the Workings of the New South Wales Children's Court
Authors: Ainsworth Frank , Hansen Patricia
Published: May 2013

The New South Wales Children's Court, like other state and territory Children's Courts, is a closed court. This means that the public cannot attend court hearings when care and protection matters are before the court. The exception is Victoria where even in the Family Division of the Children's Court that deals with care and protection matters an application has to be made to a magistrate for the court to be closed. This article is designed to take the reader behind the closed door and provide information about court processes and procedures as well as present parents' comments on the way in which the court works.

In New South Wales there are seven specialist children's courts at Parramatta, Glebe (Bidura), Campbeltown, Newcastle (Broadmeadow), Wyong, Woy Woy and in the Illawarra (Port Kembla). In other places children's care matters are dealt with by local magistrates supported by specialist Children's Court magistrates from Parramatta who staff a country Children's Court circuit.

Parents' views on these processes and procedures are troubling as many see the court as unfair in the way that decisions are made. The parents' views have been obtained, through interviews with parents over a number of years, as part of the authors' professional duties, as a Guardian ad Litem and solicitor in the New South Wales Children's Court.

From this experience it is clear that many professional staff who have contact with parents involved in Children's Court matters are also unclear about the court processes, and as a result they are less able to support parents through this stressful process. This article aims to assist staff to understand the court processes so that they may in turn support parents.
Building Performance-Based Accountability With Limited Empirical Evidence: Performance Measurement for Public Health Preparedness
Authors: Shelton Shoshana R. , Nelson Christopher D. , McLees Anita W. , Mumford Karen , Thomas Craig
Published: May 2013

Efforts to respond to performance-based accountability mandates for public health emergency preparedness have been hindered by a weak evidence base linking preparedness activities with response outcomes. We describe an approach to measure development that was successfully implemented in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement. The approach leverages insights from process mapping and experts to guide measure selection, and provides mechanisms for reducing performance-irrelevant variation in measurement data. Also, issues are identified that need to be addressed to advance the science of measurement in public health emergency preparedness.
β-Carboline harmine reverses the effects induced by stress on behaviour and citrate synthase activity in the rat prefrontal cortex
Authors: Abelaira Helena Mendes , Réus Gislaine Zilli , Scaini Giselli , Streck Emilio Luiz , Crippa José Alexandre , Quevedo João
Published: May 2013

Objectives

The present study was aimed at evaluating the effects of the administration of β-carboline harmine on behaviour and citrate synthase activity in the brain of rats exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS) procedure.

Methods

To this aim, after 40 days of exposure to CMS procedure, rats were treated with harmine (15 mg/kg/day) for 7 days, then memory, anhedonia and citrate synthase activity were assessed.

Result

Our findings demonstrated that stressed rats treated with saline increased the sucrose intake, and the stressed rats treated with harmine reversed this effect. Neither stress nor harmine treatment altered memory performance in rats. In addition, chronic stressful situations induced increase in citrate synthase activity in the prefrontal cortex, but not in the hippocampus and striatum. Treatment with harmine reversed the increase in citrate synthase activity in the prefrontal cortex.

Conclusion

These findings support the hypothesis that harmine could be involved in controlling the energy metabolism.
Effect of varying the concentrations of carbohydrate and milk protein in rehydration solutions ingested after exercise in the heat
Authors: James Lewis J. , Evans Gethin H. , Madin Joshua , Scott Darren , Stepney Michael , Harris Russell , Stone Robert , Clayton David J.
Published: May 2013

The present study investigated the relationship between the milk protein content of a rehydration solution and fluid balance after exercise-induced dehydration. On three occasions, eight healthy males were dehydrated to an identical degree of body mass loss (BML, approximately 1·8 %) by intermittent cycling in the heat, rehydrating with 150 % of their BML over 1 h with either a 60 g/l carbohydrate solution (C), a 40 g/l carbohydrate, 20 g/l milk protein solution (CP20) or a 20 g/l carbohydrate, 40 g/l milk protein solution (CP40). Urine samples were collected pre-exercise, post-exercise, post-rehydration and for a further 4 h. Subjects produced less urine after ingesting the CP20 or CP40 drink compared with the C drink (P< 0·01), and at the end of the study, more of the CP20 (59 (sd 12) %) and CP40 (64 (sd 6) %) drinks had been retained compared with the C drink (46 (sd 9) %) (P< 0·01). At the end of the study, whole-body net fluid balance was more negative for trial C ( − 470 (sd 154) ml) compared with both trials CP20 ( − 181 (sd 280) ml) and CP40 ( − 107 (sd 126) ml) (P< 0·01). At 2 and 3 h after drink ingestion, urine osmolality was greater for trials CP20 and CP40 compared with trial C (P< 0·05). The present study further demonstrates that after exercise-induced dehydration, a carbohydrate–milk protein solution is better retained than a carbohydrate solution. The results also suggest that high concentrations of milk protein are not more beneficial in terms of fluid retention than low concentrations of milk protein following exercise-induced dehydration.
Socio-economic differences in food group and nutrient intakes among young women in Ireland
Authors: McCartney Daniel M. A. , Younger Katherine M. , Walsh Joanne , O'Neill Marie , Sheridan Claire , Kearney John M.
Published: May 2013

The present study aimed to investigate socio-economic disparities in food and nutrient intakes among young Irish women. A total of 221 disadvantaged and seventy-four non-disadvantaged women aged 18–35 years were recruited. Diet was assessed using a diet history protocol. Of the total population, 153 disadvantaged and sixty-three non-disadvantaged women were classified as plausible dietary reporters. Food group intakes, nutrient intakes and dietary vitamin and mineral concentrations per MJ of energy consumed were compared between the disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged populations, as was compliance with dietary fibre, macronutrient and micronutrient intake guidelines. The disadvantaged women had lower intakes than the non-disadvantaged women of fruit, vegetables, fish, breakfast cereals, low-fat milk and wholemeal bread (allP< 0·001), yogurt (P= 0·001), low-fat spread (P= 0·002) and fresh meat (P= 0·003). They also had higher intakes of butter, processed red meats, white bread, sugar-sweetened beverages, fried potatoes and potato-based snacks (allP< 0·001) and full-fat milk (P= 0·014). Nutritionally, the disadvantaged women had higher fat, saturated fat and refined sugar intakes; lower dietary fibre, vitamin and mineral intakes; and lower dietary vitamin and mineral densities per MJ than their more advantaged peers. Non-achievement of carbohydrate (P= 0·017), fat (P< 0·001), saturated fat (P< 0·001), refined sugar (P< 0·001), folate (P= 0·050), vitamin C (P< 0·001), vitamin D (P= 0·047) and Ca (P= 0·019) recommendations was more prevalent among the disadvantaged women. Both groups showed poor compliance with Fe and Na guidelines. We conclude that the nutritional deficits present among these socially disadvantaged women are significant, but may be potentially ameliorated by targeted food-based interventions.
In vitro evaluation of the impact of human background microbiota on the response to Bifidobacterium strains and fructo-oligosaccharides
Authors: Arboleya Silvia , Salazar Nuria , Solís Gonzalo , Fernández Nuria , Gueimonde Miguel , de los Reyes-Gavilán Clara G.
Published: May 2013

The microbial colonisation of the infant gut begins immediately after birth and is essential for the development of the intestine, the immune system and later well-being. Important differences have been reported in the characteristics of such microbiota in different infant population groups. In the present study, we employed an in vitro faecal batch culture model using faeces from different human population groups (adults and full-term breast-fed, full-term formula-fed and preterm infants) to determine the influence that the addition of four bifidobacterial strains and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) exerts on the profile of SCFA measured by GC as well as on the levels of some relevant intestinal microbial groups by quantitative PCR during incubation. Differences were found in the levels of SCFA and intestinal microbial groups in the faecal cultures depending on the human group origin of the faecal samples (P< 0·05), this being a predominant factor, compared with bifidobacteria or FOS added, in determining microbiota dynamics. These results exhibit the importance of the initial characteristics of the basal intestinal microbiota in the effect exerted by bifidobacteria or FOS that are added and highlight the need to design probiotics targeting specific human population groups.
A First Look at Mutual Funds That Use Short Sales
Authors: Chen Honghui , Desai Hemang , Krishnamurthy Srinivasan
Published: May 2013

We provide a first look at short selling by mutual funds, a phenomenon not examined by prior research. Mutual funds that short do so frequently and in significant amounts, averaging about 16% of fund assets. These funds outperform benchmarks by 1.5% per year. An analysis of portfolio holdings shows that these funds generate abnormal performance from their short (4.1% per year) and long (1.5% per year) positions. Managers of short-selling mutual funds also exhibit superior performance in other funds they manage that do not use short sales. These findings suggest that managers of short-selling mutual funds are skilled.
Opisthorchis viverrini-like liver fluke in birds from Vietnam: morphological variability and rDNA/mtDNA sequence confirmation
Authors: Dao T.H. , Nguyen T.G. , Victor B. , Gabriël S. , Dorny P.
Published: May 2013

Flukes were found in the bile ducts of domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos), necropsied in the Binh Dinh province of Central Vietnam. Following staining, morphological characteristics of the bird flukes were compatible with Opisthorchis viverrini, although some characteristics differed from those described in specimens collected from mammal hosts. Computation of the phylogenetic trees on the partial sequences of the second internal ribosomal spacer (ITS2) of the ribosomal DNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) markers of the mitochondrial DNA showed close similarity of the ‘bird’ Opisthorchis sp. with O. viverrini. We speculate that these bird flukes are O. viverrini that show intraspecies morphological and molecular variability compared to isolates from mammals. This demonstrates the complex epidemiological situation of opisthorchiasis in Vietnam and urges investigations on the potential of birds as a reservoir host of this zoonotic fluke.
Major Determinants of Uyghur Ethnic Consciousness in Ürümchi
Authors: ZANG XIAOWEI
Published: May 2013

Rising Uyghur ethnic consciousness in the post-1978 era is believed to cause tense Uyghur-Han relations and conflicts in Xinjiang. There are different accounts linking rising Uyghur consciousness with variables such as Han migration into Xinjiang, ethnic inequalities, Uyghur language, and Islamic religiosity. Yet there is no concrete effort to summarize, elaborate, and verify these accounts. Nor is there a quantitative study of the levels of Uyghur ethnic consciousness in Xinjiang. Using data from a survey (N = 799) conducted in Ürümchi in 2007, this paper shows a high level of ethnic consciousness among Uyghurs. It also shows that Uyghur consciousness is based more on cultural and psychological properties than on instrumental sentiments.
A Candide response to Panglossian accusations by Randolph and Dobson: biodiversity buffers disease
Authors: OSTFELD RICHARD S.
Published: May 2013

Randolph and Dobson (2012) criticize the dilution effect, which describes the negative relationship between biodiversity and infectious disease risk. Unfortunately, their commentary includes distortions, errors of omission, and errors of commission, which are rebutted herein. Contrary to their claims, the dilution effect is not a ‘mantra’ that asserts that reduced disease risk is a ‘universal’ outcome of high diversity. Although universality of the dilution effect has not been claimed, and conditions under which diversity can amplify disease risk have been described, the growing literature indicates that the dilution effect is indeed a widespread phenomenon.