bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quaternions and applications
Authors: Pinotsis D. A.
Published: October 2008

This note gives an overview of two novel applications of Quaternions which appeared in [1]–[3]: First, the evaluation of certain three dimensional real integrals without integrating with respect to the real variables. This is the generalisation of the well‐known Cauchy Residue Theorem from the case of two dimensions to the case of four dimensions. Second, the solution of boundary value problems for linear elliptic PDEs in four dimensions. This is the extension of some of the results of [4] from two to four dimensions. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Radiation problem of normal stress loading of bore surface
Authors: Snitser A.R.
Published: October 2008

The radiation of elastic waves at normal harmonic stress loading of a ring strip of the cylindrical bore‐surface in the infinite elastic medium is considered. The wave field is represented by contour integrals. By using the saddle‐point method stress and displacement of asymptotic expansions in the far field were obtained. It is shown that in the far field P‐waves bring radial displacements and stresses, and perpendicular to these, displacements and stresses are caused by S‐waves. In the paper orientation diagrams of radial and circular displacements and frequency dependencies of relative distribution of radiation power source on types of waves are presented. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Atomistic modelling in metrology: algorithms and current challenges
Authors: Sokhan V. P.
Published: October 2008

Mathematical modelling plays an increasingly important role in measurement science where many problems of fundamental and practical importance require solutions at meso‐ and nano‐scales. In quantum and materials metrology atomistic simulation has developed to a level where it is competing in accuracy with laboratory measurements. This article gives a brief overview of current applications of atomistic simulation to problems of metrology. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Databases for pediatric medicine research in Europe—assessment and critical appraisal
Authors: Neubert Antje , Sturkenboom Miriam CJM , Murray Macey L. , Verhamme Katia MC , Nicolosi Alfredo , Giaquinto Carlo , Ceci Adriana , Wong Ian CK
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To identify and describe European health care databases that can be used for pediatric pharmacoepidemiological research.

Methods

A web‐based survey was conducted among all European databases that were listed on the website of the International Society of Pharmacoepidemiology (ISPE) and/or known by an expert group. The survey comprised of questions regarding (a) the nature of the database, (b) database size, (c) demographic, clinical and drug related data provided, (d) cost, and (e) accessibility of the database.

Results

A total of 25 data sources from 12 European countries were identified and invited to participate in the survey. Responses were obtained from 21 (84%) databases located in 10 different European countries. Seventeen databases were included in the assessment comprising a total of at least 9 million children aged 0–18 years. The majority of databases are based on outpatient data and all keep either prescription or drug dispensing data. Ten databases are based on electronic patient records from primary care physicians and five databases are predominantly claims oriented. Three databases do not belong to either of the above mentioned categories. Almost all of the databases can be used for pediatric drug utilization studies. For drug safety studies it is more appropriate to use electronic patient record databases because of the available clinical information and the potential to obtain additional information.

Conclusions

There are many European healthcare databases providing an enormous potential for pediatric pharmacoepidemiological research. Future research should focus on methods to bring data from different databases together to use the full capacity effectively. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pd‐complex‐catalyzed synthesis of oligomers having a recurring benzodiazaborole unit in the main chain
Authors: Yamaguchi Isao , Tominaga Tomochika , Sato Moriyuki
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND: Rigid‐rod oligomers and polymers comprising a recurring benzodiazaborole unit show high thermal stability and intriguing optical and electrochemical properties due to the expanded electron system through the BC and BN bonds in the main chain by the use of the pz orbital on boron. However, the conventional method for the preparation of these oligomers and polymers often requires polycondensation under severe conditions. In this study, we report the synthesis of oligomers comprising a recurring benzodiazaborole unit using the Stille reaction under mild conditions. In addition, we describe their chemical properties and solid‐state structures.

RESULTS: The reaction of 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine with 4‐bromophenylboronic acid and benzeneboronic acid yielded 2,2′‐bis(4‐bromophenyl)‐2,3,2′,3′‐tetrahydro‐1H,1′H‐[5,5′]bi(benzo[1,3,2]diazaborolyl) (1) and 2,2′‐biphenyl‐2,3,2′,3′‐tetrahydro‐1H,1′H‐[5,5′]bi(benzo[1,3,2]diazaborolyl), respectively. Pd‐complex‐catalyzed polycondensation of 1 with bis(tributyltin) and bis(tributylstannyl)acetylene in N,N‐dimethylformamide provided oligomers comprising a recurring benzodiazaborole unit in 98 and 97% yields, respectively.

CONCLUSION: The oligomers comprising a recurring benzodiazaborole unit were obtained under mild reaction conditions in high yields. The expansion of the electron system through the BC and BN bonds of the oligomers was confirmed by UV‐visible spectroscopy. The oligomers were photoluminescent in solution and electrochemically active in a film, and they assumed self‐assembled stacked structures in the solid state. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Utilization of common ditch vegetation in the reduction of fipronil and its sulfone metabolite
Authors: Kröger Robert , Moore Matt T
Published: October 2008

BACKGROUND: Fipronil, a phenylpyrazole insecticide, and its oxidative sulfone metabolite are two potential pollutants from treated rice and cotton production. A consequence of these pollutants occurring in surface runoff is degradation of downstream aquatic ecosystems. Utilization of primary intercept drainage ditches as management practices to reduce fipronil concentrations and loads has not been examined. This study used ditch mesocosms planted with monospecific stands of common emergent wetland vegetation to determine if certain plant species were more proficient in fipronil mitigation.

RESULTS: Three replicates of four plant species were compared against a non‐vegetated control to determine differences in water column outflow concentrations (µg L−1) and loads (µg). There were no significant differences between vegetated and control treatments in outflow concentrations (F = 0.35, P = 0.836) and loads (F = 0.35, P = 0.836). The range of fipronil reduction was 28–45% for both concentration and load. Unlike fipronil, fipronil sulfone concentrations and load increased by 96–328%.

CONCLUSION: The increase in fipronil sulfone was hypothesized as a direct consequence of oxidation of fipronil within each mesocosm. The type of ditch vegetation had no effect on fipronil reduction. Future research needs to examine initial concentrations and hydraulic retention times to examine potential changes in reduction capacities. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Antioxidative and antiinflammatory potential of different functional drink concepts in vitro
Authors: Dartsch Peter C. , Kler Adolf , Kriesl Erwin
Published: October 2008

The present study was undertaken to investigate the antioxidative effects of three different functional drink concepts especially designed to improve the body's performance and function and to possess high antioxidant activities. The concepts based on the mixture of various plant ingredients were: (1) eQ – equalize your nutrient balance, brain line [acerola‐dragon fruit], (2) eQ – equalize your nutrient balance, beauty line [honey‐pepper] and (3) Let's get red [intense]. By using a cell‐based test assay, the study investigated the potential of the functional drinks to inactivate reactive superoxide anion radicals generated by inflammation‐mediating cells as well as the effect on basal metabolism of these cells (antioxidant and antiinflammatory potential). In addition, by using a cell‐free test assay the potential of the drinks to inactivate free exogenous superoxide anion radicals (scavenger effect) was investigated. The data presented here demonstrate the different radical scavenging, antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential of the functional drink concepts. In particular Let's get red [intense] turned out to be the most potent drink in this respect and demonstrated marked efficacy in scavenging, antioxidant and antiinflammatory action. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of schisandrin B and sesamin mixture on CCl4‐induced hepatic oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Chang Chia‐Yu , Chen Ya‐Ling , Yang Suh‐Ching , Huang Guan‐Cheng , Tsi Daniel , Huang Chi‐Chang , Chen Jiun‐Rong , Li Joe‐Sharg
Published: October 2008

To study the effects of schisandrin B and sesamin mixture on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced hepatic oxidative stress in male Sprague‐Dawley rats. The rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control group (olive oil injection), CCl4 group (CCl4 injection), silymarin group (CCl4 injection combined with supplementation of silymarin, 7.5 mg/kg/day), low dose group (CCl4 injection combined with supplementation of schisandrin B and sesamin mixture at a low dose, 43 mg/kg/day) and high dose group (CCl4 injection combined with the supplementation of schisandrin B and sesamin mixture at a high dose, 215 mg/kg/day). The hepatic superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities of rats in the low dose and high dose groups were increased significantly compared with those in the CCl4 group. The hepatic reduced glutathione concentration in the silymarin, low dose and high dose groups were increased significantly (48%, 45% and 53%, respectively) when compared with those of the CCl4 group. In addition, the concentration of glutathione in the erythrocytes of the low dose group was significantly higher than the CCl4 group by 25%. These results suggest that the schisandrin B–sesamin mixture exerted a hepatoprotective effect by improving the antioxidative capacity in rats under CCl4‐induced hepatic oxidative stress. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attenuation of colitis injury in rats using Garcinia cambogia extract
Authors: dos Reis Samara Bonesso , de Oliveira Caroline Candida , Acedo Simone Coghetto , da Conceição Miranda Daniel Duarte , Ribeiro Marcelo Lima , Pedrazzoli José , Gambero Alessandra
Published: October 2008

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic enteropathies that probably result from a dysregulated mucosal immune response. These pathologies are characterized by oxidative and nitrosative stress, leukocyte infiltration and up‐regulation of pro‐inflammatory substances. Current IBD treatment presents limitations in both efficacy and safety that stimulated the search for new active compounds. Garcinia cambogia extract has attracted interest due to its pharmacological properties, including gastroprotective effects. In this study, the antiinflammatory activity of a garcinia extract was assessed in TNBS‐induced colitis rats. The results obtained revealed that garcinia administration to colitic rats significantly improved the macroscopic damage and caused substantial reductions in increases in MPO activity, COX‐2 and iNOS expression. In addition, garcinia extract treatment was able to reduce PGE2 and IL‐1β colonic levels. These antiinflammatory actions could be related to a reduction in DNA damage in isolated colonocytes, observed with the comet assay. Finally, garcinia extract caused neither mortality nor toxicity signals after oral administration. As such, the antiinflammatory effects provided by the Garcinia cambogia extract result in an improvement of several parameters analysed in experimental colitis and could provide a source for the search for new antiinflammatory compounds useful in IBD treatment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of visibility and aerosol within the operational Met Office Unified Model. I: Model formulation and variational assimilation
Authors: Clark P. A. , Harcourt S. A. , Macpherson B. , Mathison C. T. , Cusack S. , Naylor M.
Published: October 2008

The formulation and performance of the Met Office visibility analysis and prediction system are described. The visibility diagnostic within the limited‐area Unified Model is a function of humidity and a prognostic aerosol content. The aerosol model includes advection, industrial and general urban sources, plus boundary‐layer mixing and removal by rain. The assimilation is a 3‐dimensional variational scheme in which the visibility observation operator is a very nonlinear function of humidity, aerosol and temperature. A quality control scheme for visibility data is included. Visibility observations can give rise to humidity increments of significant magnitude compared with the direct impact of humidity observations. We present the results of sensitivity studies which show the contribution of different components of the system to improved skill in visibility forecasts. Visibility assimilation is most important within the first 6‐12 hours of the forecast and for visibilities below 1 km, while modelling of aerosol sources and advection is important for slightly higher visibilities (1‐5 km) and is still significant at longer forecast times. © Crown Copyright 2008. Reproduced with the permission of the Controller of HMSO. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Empirical model for the electron impact K‐shell ionization cross section of atoms
Authors: Patoary M. A. R. , Uddin M. Alfaz , Haque A. K. F. , Shahjahan M. , Basak A. K. , Talukder M. R. , Saha B. C.
Published: October 2008

A new semiempirical model comprising few important features of the DM model of Deutsch et al. (Int J Mass Spectrom 1998, 177, 47) and the widely used empirical model of Bell et al. (J Phys Chem Ref Data 1983, 12, 891) has been proposed. The proposed model has been examined to evaluate the electron impact K‐shell ionization cross sections of 30 atomic targets ranging from H to U (Z = 1–92) and found to describe with considerable success the experimental results over a wide range of incident energies up to 2 GeV using a single set of species independent parameters. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Effect of ring annelation on cations [M = H+, Li+, Na+, K+, Be2+, Mg2+, and Ca2+]…benzene interaction: A density functional theory investigation
Authors: Yuan Xiao‐Li , Cheng Xin‐Lu , Su Xin‐Fang
Published: October 2008

Density functional theory calculation was carried out on cation‐π complexes formed by cations [M = H+, Li+, Na+, K+, Be2+, Mg2+, and Ca2+] and π systems of annelated benzene. The cation‐π bonding energy of Be2+ or Mg2+ with annelated benzene is very strong in comparison with the common cation‐π intermolecular interaction, and the bonding energies follow the order Be2+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ > Li+ > Na+ > K+. Similarly, the interaction energies follow the trend 1‐M < 2‐M < 3‐M for all the metal cations considered. These outcomes may be due to the weak interactions of the metal cations with CH and the interactions of metal cations with π in addition to the nature of a metal cation. We have also investigated on all the possible substituted sites, and find that the metal ion tends to interact with all ring atoms while proton prefers to bind covalently to one of the ring carbons. The binding of metal cations with annelated benzenes has striking effect on nuclear magnetic resonance chemical shifts using the gauge independent atomic orbital method. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Autonomous off‐road navigation with end‐to‐end learning for the LAGR program
Authors: Bajracharya Max , Howard Andrew , Matthies Larry H. , Tang Benyang , Turmon Michael
Published: October 2008

We describe a fully integrated real‐time system for autonomous off‐road navigation that uses end‐to‐end learning from onboard proprioceptive sensors, operator input, and stereo cameras to adapt to local terrain and extend terrain classification into the far field to avoid myopic behavior. The system consists of two learning algorithms: a short‐range, geometry‐based local terrain classifier that learns from very few proprioceptive examples and is robust in many off‐road environments; and a long‐range, image‐based classifier that learns from geometry‐based classification and continuously generalizes geometry to appearance, making it effective even in complex terrain and varying lighting conditions. In addition to presenting the learning algorithms, we describe the system architecture and results from the Learning Applied to Ground Robots (LAGR) program's field tests. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation and resistivity study of silver nanocomposite films using spin‐assisted layer‐by‐layer assembly
Authors: Feng Zhizhong , Yan Fengyuan
Published: October 2008

Nanocomposite films [Ag/(PAH‐PSS)nPAH]m were fabricated on a silicon substrate using a time‐ and cost‐efficient spin‐assisted layer‐by‐layer (SA‐LbL) self‐assembly technique. A virtually monolayer‐like layer of self‐assembled silver nanoparticles was formed when deposition time increased to 30 min. It was found that polymer multilayers could effectively decrease the resistivity of silver nanoparticle monolayer, which was far higher than that of bulk silver metal; however, the resistivity of Ag/(PAH‐PSS)nPAH multilayer films increased along with the increasing of the number of polymer bilayers. XPS investigations showed that silver nanoparticles were partially oxidized, which might be the major cause of the high resistivity of silver nanoparticle monolayer. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A tall, green future
Authors: Gill Gordon
Published: October 2008

The task of the architect has always been to find a balance between art and science, between performance and beauty. Conventionally, talking about the science of architecture has meant a discussion of building structure and systems, and the effect those elements will have on a building's interior and immediate exterior environments. We have not traditionally regarded the science of architecture as something that has a far‐reaching effect on our neighbourhoods, our cities and our planet as a whole. But now we are rapidly approaching a critical juncture in our earth's history. Pollution is threatening our environment, our air quality, our water, our very way of life. Contrary to popular thinking, it is often buildings, not automobiles that are the largest environmental offenders. This is especially true in urban areas, where buildings are responsible for as much as 80% of carbon emissions. The design community must accept responsibility for curbing the dangerous levels of pollution generated by modern buildings, and create a built environment that exists in harmony with the natural world. But we cannot move backwards. We will need to make concessions, but we cannot expect society to operate in a world without modern conveniences and comforts. Instead, we must learn to work within these parameters. The buildings of the 21st century must move beyond performing programmatically and aesthetically. They must also perform efficiently and cleanly, and be powered by natural energy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of modal pushover analysis and conventional nonlinear static procedure with load distributions of federal emergency management agency for high‐rise buildings
Authors: Poursha Mehdi , Khoshnoudian Faramarz , Moghadam A. S.
Published: October 2008

The nonlinear static pushover analysis technique is mostly used in the performance‐based design of structures. However, the pushover analysis with load distributions of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) loses its accuracy in estimating the seismic responses of long‐period structures where higher mode effects are important. Recently, modal pushover analysis (MPA) has been proposed to consider these effects. Hence, FEMA load patterns and MPA are evaluated in the current study and compared with inelastic response history analysis. These approximate procedures are applied to medium‐rise (10 and 15 stories) and high‐rise (20 and 30 stories) buildings; advantages and limitations of them are elaborated. It is shown that MPA procedure presents significant advantage over FEMA load distributions in predicting story drifts. MPA is able to compute hinge plastic rotations better than FEMA load distributions at upper floor levels of high‐rise buildings due to considering higher mode effects by this procedure, but both are unsuccessful in predicting hinge plastic rotations with acceptable accuracy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determinants of urinary 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine in Chinese children with acute leukemia
Authors: Yang You , Tian Ying , Yan Chonghuai , Jin Xingming , Tang Jingyan , Shen Xiaoming
Published: October 2008

The 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), an oxidized nucleoside of DNA, not only is a widely used biomarker for the measurement of endogenous oxidative DNA damage, but might also be a risk factor for many diseases including cancer. Elevated level of urinary 8‐OHdG has been detected in patients with various malignancies. In the present study, the level of urinary 8‐OHdG was examined in 116 Chinese children with acute leukemia (94 acute lymphoid leukemia, ALL, 22 acute myeloid leukemia, AML), and its correlation with urinary metal elements was investigated. Our result showed that the level of urinary 8‐OHdG in children with acute leukemia before treatment was significantly elevated compared with that in normal controls (11.92 ± 15.42 vs. 4.03 ± 4.70 ng/mg creatinine, P < 0.05). In particular, urinary 8‐OHdG was higher in children with acute leukemia aged under 3 years (20.86 ± 21.75 ng/mg creatinine) than in those aged 3–15 years (8.09 ± 9.65 ng/mg creatinine), whereas no differences were shown in terms of gender, parental smoking and education, household income, place of residence, and use of paracetamol. In addition, urinary 8‐OHdG levels were similar among different subtypes of acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) patients. Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between urinary 8‐OHdG and urinary Cr, but not Fe or As, in group aged <3 years compared with group aged 3–15 years (P = 0.041), indicating that the metal elements may be involved in increasing urinary 8‐OHdG level in younger children with acute leukemia. Our results suggest that children with acute leukemia undergo an increased risk of oxidative DNA damage, which may be correlated with high level of Cr exposure in Chinese children with acute leukemia. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2009.
Phenotypic heterogeneity of N370S homozygotes with type I Gaucher disease: An analysis of 798 patients from the ICGG Gaucher Registry
Authors: Fairley C. , Zimran A. , Phillips M. , Cizmarik M. , Yee J. , Weinreb N. , Packman S.
Published: October 2008

Gaucher disease is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by a deficiency of the enzyme acid β‐glucosidase. The most prevalent mutant genotype in type I Gaucher disease, N370S/N370S, is commonly thought to confer a mild phenotype presenting in adulthood. To characterize a subset of more severely affected N370S homozygotes, we assessed the phenotypes at or near the time of diagnosis of all N370S homozygotes with available data enrolled in the International Collaborative Gaucher Group Gaucher Registry. N370S compound heterozygotes were analyzed for comparison, as they are expected to present with a more severe phenotype. Of 798 N370S homozygotes and 1,278 N370S compound heterozygotes identified, 32% (251/788) and 65% (820/1269), respectively, were diagnosed before age 20 years. At diagnosis, N370S homozygotes as compared to N370S compound heterozygotes had the following clinical characteristics: irreversible skeletal lesions 17% (34/198) for N370S homozygotes versus 26% (76/290) for N370S compound heterozygotes; anaemia 18% (59/327) versus 29% (145/494); thrombocytopenia 52% (170/327) versus 62% (281/453); hepatomegaly 44% (83/190) versus 72% (141/195); splenomegaly 73% (142/194) versus 91% (178/195); and osteopenia or osteoporosis 48.6% (34/70) versus 51% (25/49). Some N370S homozygotes exhibited more severe clinical manifestations: 9% (29/327) had severe thrombocytopenia; 3% (5/190) had severe hepatomegaly; 11% (22/194) had severe splenomegaly; 7% (18/255) reported bone crises; 11% (8/70) had osteoporosis. In conclusion, N370S homozygosity does not consistently confer a mild, adult‐onset phenotype. Gaucher disease patients with the N370S/N370S genotype exhibit a high degree of phenotypic heterogeneity and some may be at risk for early disease onset and severe clinical manifestations.
Effect of Linseed Fed as Rolled Seeds, Extruded Seeds or Oil on Fatty Acid Rumen Metabolism and Intestinal Digestibility in Cows
Authors: Doreau Michel , Laverroux Sophie , Normand Jérôme , Chesneau Guillaume , Glasser Frédéric
Published: October 2008

Linseed, a source of linolenic acid, is used in ruminant diets to increase polyunsaturated fatty acids (FA) in animal products. Seed processing is known to have an impact on FA rumen metabolism, but few data are available for linseed. We studied the effect of linseed lipid on ruminal metabolism and intestinal digestibility in cows. Three modes of linseed processing: rolled linseed (RL), extruded linseed (EL) and linseed oil plus linseed meal (LO), supplemented at 7.5% of DM intake, were compared to a control diet (C). Duodenal flows, intestinal digestibility and plasma composition were determined. The duodenal flow of linolenic acid was similar among diets. The sum of t10 and t11‐18:1, which were coeluted, was increased with lipid‐supplemented diets and represented more than 60% of trans 18:1 for EL and LO diets. The main 18:2 isomers were c9, c12 and t11, c15 among the non‐conjugated isomers, and t11, t13 among CLA. Linseed supplementation increased the duodenal flow of unsaturated intermediates of biohydrogenation, and this effect was more pronounced for extruded seeds and oil than for rolled seeds. For most 18‐carbon FA, intestinal digestibility was slightly higher for C and LO diets than for RL and EL. Plasma concentrations of non‐conjugated 18:2 and linolenic acid were similar among the lipid‐supplemented diets. Within diet, profiles of 18:1 isomers (except c9) remained very similar between duodenal and plasma FA.
Effect of the Addition of Waxes on the Crystallization Behavior of Anhydrous Milk Fat
Authors: Martini Silvana , Carelli Amalia A. , Lee Jiwon
Published: October 2008

Physicochemical characteristics of lipid‐based foods depend, among other factors, on the microstructure and the characteristics of the lipid network formed during crystallization. The objective of this study, was to evaluate the effect of the addition of sunflower oil waxes on the crystallization and melting behavior of anhydrous milk fat (AMF), a lipid with a low content of palmitic and trans‐fatty acids. The crystallization and melting behavior of AMF alone and with the addition of 0.25 and 0.5% of waxes was studied using a differential scanning calorimeter. The morphology of the crystallized samples was evaluated with a polarized light microscope. The addition of waxes induced and promoted the crystallization of AMF at high temperatures (>25 °C) as evidenced by lower induction times of crystallization and higher crystallization and melting enthalpies. In addition, smaller crystals and different morphologies were obtained when AMF was crystallized with the addition of waxes. These results suggest that waxes could be used as an additive to modify lipid networks and their physicochemical characteristics, such as texture, smoothness and mouthfeel.
Measurement of Whole Soybean Fatty Acids by Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Igne Benoit , Rippke Glen R. , Hurburgh Charles R.
Published: October 2008

Whole soybean fatty acid contents were measured by near infrared spectroscopy. Three calibration algorithms—partial least squares (PLS), artificial neural networks (ANN), and least squares support vector machines (LS‐SVM)—were implemented. Three different validation strategies using independent sets and part of calibration samples as validation sets were created. There was a significant improvement of the prediction precision of all fatty acids measured on relative concentration of oil compared with previous literature using PLS (standard error of prediction of 0.85, 0.42, 1.64, 1.67, and 0.90% for palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids respectively). ANN and LS‐SVM methods performed significantly better than PLS for palmitic, oleic and linolenic acids. Calibration models developed on relative concentrations (% of oil) were compared to prediction models created on absolute fatty acid concentration (% of weight) and corrected to relative concentration by multiplying by the predicted oil content. While models were easier to develop in absolute concentration (higher coefficients of determination), the multiplication of errors with the total oil content model resulted in no net precision improvement.
Continuation of relative periodic orbits in a class of triatomic Hamiltonian systems
Authors: James Guillaume , Noble Pascal , Sire Yannick
Published: October 2008

We study relative periodic orbits (i.e. time-periodic orbits in a frame rotating at constant velocity) in a class of triatomic Euclidean-invariant (planar) Hamiltonian systems. The system consists of two identical heavy atoms and a light one, and the atomic mass ratio is treated as a continuation parameter. Under some nondegeneracy conditions, we show that a given family of relative periodic orbits existing at infinite mass ratio (and parametrized by phase, rotational degree of freedom and period) persists for sufficiently large mass ratio and for nearby angular velocities (this result is valid for small angular velocities). The proof is based on a method initially introduced by Sepulchre and MacKay [J.-A. Sepulchre, R.S. MacKay, Localized oscillations in conservative or dissipative networks of weakly coupled autonomous oscillators, Nonlinearity 10 (1997) 679–713] and further developed by Muñoz-Almaraz et al. [F.J. Muñoz-Almaraz, et al., Continuation of periodic orbits in conservative and Hamiltonian systems, Physica D 181 (2003) 1–38] for the continuation of normal periodic orbits in Hamiltonian systems. Our results provide several types of relative periodic orbits, which extend from small amplitude relative normal modes [J.-P. Ortega, Relative normal modes for nonlinear Hamiltonian systems, Proc. Roy. Soc. Edinburgh Sect. A 133 (2003) 665–704] up to large amplitude solutions which are not restrained to a small neighborhood of a stable relative equilibrium. In particular, we show the existence of large amplitude motions of
inversion
, where the light atom periodically crosses the segment between heavy atoms. This analysis is completed by numerical results on the stability and bifurcations of some inversion orbits as their angular velocity is varied.
The Use of the NMP22 BladderChek Test for Bladder Cancer to Optimise Investigations in a One-Stop Haematuria Clinic
Authors: Bott Simon , Chanawani Malek , Mostafid Hugh
Published: October 2008

Objective:

We assessed the value of the NMP22 BladderChek point-of-care (POC) test (Kyowa Hakko UK Ltd., Slough, UK) in a one-stop haematuria clinic to optimise the choice of further investigations.

Patients and methods:

Over 34 months from 2005 until 2007, 590 patients presenting to a haematuria clinic were initially assessed with the NMP22 POC test. Patients with a positive NMP22 were counselled and offered further investigation with upper tract imaging and a general anaesthetic cystoscopy without first undergoing flexible cystoscopy (FC). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of the NMP22 POC test in this setting were calculated. The financial impact of this policy was assessed.

Results:

In total 58 of 590 men were NMP22 positive. Urothelial malignancy was identified in 22 patients and 5 had a non-urothelial malignancy of the genitourinary system. The sensitivity of the NMP22 test in detecting urothelial malignancy in newly presenting patients was 56.4%, specificity 93.5%, PPV 38.0% and NPV 97.0%. Eleven had no abnormality and none have subsequently developed a malignancy. The number of patients requiring FC fell by 10% resulting in significant financial savings.

Conclusion:

The NMP22 POC test can be used as the first test in a haematuria clinic to optimise the choice of subsequent investigations resulting in financial savings.
The effect of unethical behavior on trust in a buyer–supplier relationship: The mediating role of psychological contract violation
Authors: Hill James A. , Eckerd Stephanie , Wilson Darryl , Greer Bertie
Published: October 2008

Research on trust in buyer–supplier relationships has tended to focus on the performance outcomes of a trusting relationship, as well as the processes that serve to build trust. Largely absent from the buyer–supplier literature is an in‐depth examination of activities that break down trust, and the resulting effect on supplier trust in the buyer. The authors propose and test a model that evaluates psychological contract violations between a buyer and a supplier as a mediating variable of the effect of unethical activities on trust within a partnership. Survey data was collected from 110 tier one suppliers of major corporations in the state of Ohio. Our results show how a supplier's perception of a violation of the psychological contract either partially mediates or fully mediates the relationship between the buyers unethical activity and the suppliers trust in that buyer. We discuss how suppliers may demonstrate bounded ethicality when they overlook perceived unethical behaviors by the buyer.
THE ISOPERIMETRIC PROBLEM ON PLANES WITH DENSITY
Authors: CARROLL COLIN , JACOB ADAM , QUINN CONOR , WALTERS ROBIN
Published: October 2008

We discuss the isoperimetric problem in planes with density. In particular, we examine planes with generalized curvature zero. We solve the isoperimetric problem on the plane with density ex, as well as on the plane with density rp for p<0. The Appendix provides a proof by Robert Bryant that the Gauss plane has a unique closed geodesic.
BOUNDS FOR THE DEVIATION OF A FUNCTION FROM THE CHORD GENERATED BY ITS EXTREMITIES
Authors: DRAGOMIR S. S.
Published: October 2008

Sharp bounds for the deviation of a real-valued function f defined on a compact interval [a,b] to the chord generated by its end points (a,f(a)) and (b,f(b)) under various assumptions for f and f′, including absolute continuity, convexity, bounded variation, and monotonicity, are given. Some applications for weighted means and f-divergence measures in information theory are also provided.
Protein–energy undernutrition in hospital in-patients
Authors: Corish Clare A. , Kennedy Nicholas P.
Published: October 2008

Impaired nutritional status has been frequently reported in surveys estimating its prevalence amongst patients in hospital. While there is no doubt that protein–energy undernutrition has serious implications for health, recovery from illness or surgery and hospital costs, lack of nationally or internationally accepted cut-off points and guidelines for most nutrition-related variables make nutritional assessment difficult and proper comparisons between studies impossible. In reviewing published work in which the prevalence of undernutrition has been assessed, it can be seen that each study defined undernutrition, or nutritional risk, using different methodology. This present review aims to highlight the problems which arise when deciphering these studies, and the resulting difficulty in determining the true prevalence of undernutrition and nutritional risk, amongst both general and specific groups of hospital in-patients. It is widely agreed that routine hospital practices can further adversely affect the nutritional status of sick patients in hospital. How this occurs, and the potential effects of impaired nutritional status on clinical outcome are examined. The methods currently available to assess nutritional status are evaluated in the knowledge that such assessments are difficult in clinical practice. The review concludes by proposing that if we want the medical and nursing professions to consider the nutritional status of hospital patients seriously, definitions of undernutrition and nutritional risk, and cut-off values for the nutritional variables measured must be agreed to allow evidence-based practice. Outcome measures which allow clear comparisons between groups and treatments must be used in studies assessing the effects of nutritional interventions.
The effect of 677C → T and 1298A → C mutations on plasma homocysteine and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase activity in healthy subjects
Authors: Chango A. , Chango A. , Boisson F. , Barbé F. , Quilliot D. , Droesch S. , Pfister M. , Fillon-Emery N. , Lambert D. , Frémont S. , Rosenblatt D. S. , Nicolas J. P.
Published: October 2008

We have studied the effect of common mutations (677C → T and 1298A → C) of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene in sixty-six healthy French subjects, aged 27–47 years. Serum folate, vitamin B12, and plasma total homocysteine were measured as well as the specific activity of MTHFR in lymphocytes. The frequency of subjects homozygous for the 677TT genotype was 18 %, and that of those homozygous for the 1298CC genotype was 12·5 %. The frequency of individuals heterozygous for both mutations was 23·5 %. The 1298A → C mutation was associated with decreased MTHFR specific activity in subjects with both 677CC and 677CT genotypes. This activity was 60 % for the 677CC/1298AC genotype and 52 % for the 677CC/1298CC genotype when compared with the MTHFR specific activity of the 677CC/1298AA genotype. Heterozygotes for both mutations (677CT/1298AC genotype) had 36 % of the reference specific activity. Although homocysteine levels in 677TT and 1298CC genotype subjects were higher than for other genotypes, no significant differences were observed among different genotypes. This may be due to high serum folate level in our samples, and suggests that folate therapy may be useful to prevent hyperhomocysteinaemia in homozygous mutant subjects.
Ethanol with a mixed meal increases postprandial triacylglycerol but decreases postprandial non-esterified fatty acid concentrations
Authors: Fielding Barbara A. , Michelle Grady Guy Reid , Humphreys Sandy M. , Evans Kevin , Frayn Keith N.
Published: October 2008

Plasma triacylglycerol concentrations increase after the acute ingestion of alcohol (specifically ethanol). However, the effect of ethanol when consumed with a mixed meal has not been well studied. The objective of the present study was to determine the perturbations of lipid metabolism that occur after ingestion of ethanol in combination with a mixed meal of specific fatty acid composition. Blood samples were taken from seven healthy male subjects before and after a mixed meal, with and without ethanol. The specific fatty acid composition of the test meal allowed the fatty acids to be traced into the plasma non-esterified fatty acid pool during the postprandial period. Statistical analysis by repeated measures ANOVA showed significant effects of ethanol. For example, postprandial lipaemia was enhanced after the ethanol test meal compared with the control (P< 0·05), mainly due to increases in triacylglycerol-rich lipoproteins in the flotation range Sf60–400 (VLDL1) (P< 0·05); those in the range Sf20–60 (VLDL2) and also Sf> 400 (chylomicrons) were not significantly affected. The later postprandial increase in plasma non-esterified fatty acid concentrations was reduced after the ingestion of ethanol (P< 0·001), but the proportions of palmitoleic acid (a marker of fatty acid content of the test meal) and of linoleic acid (a marker of endogenous lipolysis) were not affected. The results suggest a primary effect of ethanol on the stimulation of secretion of large VLDL particles, which then compete for clearance with chylomicrons by lipoprotein lipase. The results do not support an effect of ethanol on the release of non-esterified fatty acid into the plasma. The suppression of plasma non-esterified fatty acid concentrations during the postprandial period may contribute towards the beneficial effects of moderate ethanol consumption.
Effect of dietary supplements and physical exercise on sensory perception, appetite, dietary intake and body weight in frail elderly subjects
Authors: de Jong Nynke , Chin A Paw Marijke J. M. , de Graaf Cees , van Staveren Wija A.
Published: October 2008

This present study investigated the effect of a 17-week intervention programme with nutrient-dense foods (enriched with vitamins and minerals at 25–100 % of the Dutch recommended dietary allowance) and/or physical exercise in 159 frail elderly subjects (forty-six men, 113 women, mean age 78·7 (SD 5·6) years). Subjects were randomized into four groups: (1) control, (2) nutrition intervention, (3) exercise or (4) both nutrition intervention and exercise. Main outcome variables were sensory perception (smell test and questionnaire), appetite (questionnaire), energy intake (3 d food record) and body weight (on a weighing scale and with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements). At baseline, moderate but significant correlations were found between appetite and energy intake (r0·30,P< 0·0001), between smell test and smell perception assessed by questionnaire (r0·40,P< 0·0001) and between lean body weight and energy intake (r0·50,P< 0·0001). Results after 17-weeks intervention revealed neither change in smell test scores (P= 0·19) nor in appetite (P= 0·17). A slight positive effect of exercise compared with non-exercising groups on energy intake (difference 0·5 MJ,P= 0·05) was shown next to a preserving effect of exercise on lean body mass (+0·08 kg) compared with a decrease (-0·4 kg) in non-exercisers (P< 0·02). The correlation between the change in lean body mass and change in energy intake was 0·18 (P= 0·05). In conclusion, an interesting preserving effect on lean body mass in frail elderly subjects due to 17 weeks of exercise was shown. Since a decline in lean body mass was observed in the non-exercisers, effects may be attributable to change in activity pattern. Changes in lean mass were also slightly, but significantly, correlated with changes in energy intake. In turn, energy intake was not related to a change in reported appetite or sensory perception. Nutrient-dense foods were not able to improve any of the outcome variables in this study.
The physical state of a meal affects hormone release and postprandial thermogenesis
Authors: Peracchi Maddalena , Santangelo Alessandra , Conte Dario , Fraquelli Mirella , Tagliabue Rosalia , Gebbia Carlotta , Porrini Marisa
Published: October 2008

There is evidence that food consistency may influence postprandial physiological responses. Recently we found that homogenization of a vegetable-rich meal significantly delayed the gastric emptying rate and was more satiating than the same meal in solid–liquid form. In this present study we investigated whether homogenization also influences endocrine and metabolic responses to the meal. Eight healthy men, aged 21–28 (mean 24·5) years, were given the meal (cooked vegetables 250 g, cheese 35 g, croutons 50 g and olive oil 25 g, with water 300 ml; total energy 2·6 MJ) in both solid–liquid (SM) and homogenized (HM) form, in random order, at 1-week intervals. Variables assayed were plasma glucose, insulin and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) levels for 2 h and diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) for 5 h. Plasma glucose pattern was similar after both meals. However, HM induced significantly greater insulin, GIP and DIT responses than SM. Mean integrated areas under the curves (AUC) were 1·7 (SEM 0·38) V. 1·2 (sem 0·33) U/l per 120 min (P = 0·005) for insulin, 19·9 (sem 2·44) v. 16 (sem 1·92) nmol/l per 120 min (P = 0·042) for GIP, and 237·7 (sem 16·32) v. 126·4 (sem 23·48) kJ/300 min (P = 0·0029) for DIT respectively. Differences between GIP-AUC after HM and SM correlated significantly with differences between insulin-AUC after HM and SM (r2 0·62, P = 0·021). These findings demonstrate that homogenization of a meal results in a coordinated series of changes of physiological gastroentero–pancreatic functions and confirm that the physical state of the meal plays an important role in modulating endocrine and metabolic responses to food.
Effect of whole linseed (Linum usitatissimum) in the diet of finishing pigs on growth performance and on the qualityand fatty acid composition of various tissues
Authors: Matthews K. R. , Homer D. B. , Thies F. , Calder P. C.
Published: October 2008

Pigs (n 144, 30 kg liveweight) were allocated to one of three diets differing in the level of whole linseed (Linum usitatissimum, also known as flaxseed). The diets contained 0, 50 and 100 g/kg for diets L0, L50 and L100 respectively, while containing a constant oil content (60 g/kg). Pigs were slaughtered at a liveweight of 77–87 kg. With the exception of a slight difference in feed intake, there was no effect of diet on production characteristics or carcass traits. Levels of α-linolenic acid were increased in all tissues studied as the amount of linseed in the diet increased. In the plasma, m. longissimus thoracis, liver and kidney eicosapentaenoic acid concentration increased markedly. Docosapentaenoic acid concentration increased in the muscle, liver and kidney, whereas in the plasma higher levels of docosahexaenoic acid were observed. None of the longer-chain fatty acids (C20 or longer) were detected in the subcutaneous fat. The changes in fatty acid composition resulted in marked changes to the n-6 : n-3 and arachidonic : eicosapentaenoic acid ratios. Feeding whole linseed had no negative effect on the oxidative stability of the meat. Sensory panel results showed no significant differences by diet except for a reduction in abnormal odour (odour perceived by panellists to be abnormal in pigmeat) in the L50 diet and a reduction in the skatole odour (odour of 3-methylindole) in the pigs fed on diet L100. It is concluded that increasing the linseed content of pig diets up to 100 g/kg has no adverse effect on the carcass or meat quality whilst enhancing the levels of n-3 fatty acids which have a potentially positive health effect in man.
Glucose–insulin relationships and thyroid status of cockerels selected for high or low residual food consumption
Authors: Gabarrou Jean-François , Geraert Pierre Andre , Williams John , Ruffier Laurent , Rideau Nicole
Published: October 2008

The plasma glucose–insulin relationships and thyroid status were investigated in two lines of adult cockerels divergently selected for high (R+) or low (R-) residual food consumption (RFC). For a given body weight, R+ birds had a 74 % higher food intake than R- birds. Plasma glucose concentrations were significantly lower in the R+ line compared with the R- when fasted, whereas R+ birds exhibited a significantly lower plasma insulin concentration than R- birds either in fed or fasted state. After an overnight fast, R+ birds also exhibited a higher sensitivity to exogenous insulin in view of its more pronounced hypoglycaemic effect. After an oral glucose load, the glucose disposal of R+ cockerels was faster despite lower glucose-induced plasma insulin concentration. Whilst plasma triacylglycerol concentrations were lower in the R+ line when fed, plasma non-esterified fatty acid concentrations were higher in fasted R+ than R- cockerels (684v.522 μmol/l). Higher plasma triiodothyronine concentrations were observed in fed R+ compared with R- birds (3·0v.2·1 nmol/l respectively). The higher plasma concentrations of triiodothyronine associated with lower concentrations of insulin could account for the leanness and the elevated diet-induced thermogenesis previously observed in the R+ line.