The effect of a high fat meal on postprandial arterial stiffness in men with obesity and type 2 diabetes

Context: Postprandial dysmetabolism is emerging as an important cardiovascular risk factor. Augmentation index (AIx) is a measure of systemic arterial stiffness and independently predicts cardiovascular outcome. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of a standardized high-fat meal on metabolic parameters and AIx in 1) lean, 2) obese nondiabetic, and 3) subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Design and Setting: Male subjects (lean, n = 8; obese, n = 10; and T2DM, n = 10) were studied for 6 h after a high-fat meal and water control. Glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and AIx (radial applanation tonometry) were measured serially to determine the incremental area under the curve (iAUC). Results: AIx decreased in all three groups after a high-fat meal. A greater overall postprandial reduction in AIx was seen in lean and T2DM compared with obese subjects (iAUC, 2251 +/- 1204, 2764 +/- 1102, and 1187 +/- 429% . min, respectively; P < 0.05). The time to return to baseline AIx was significantly delayed in subjects with T2DM (297 +/- 68 min) compared with lean subjects (161 +/- 88 min; P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between iAUC AIx and iAUC triglycerides (r = 0.50; P < 0.05). Conclusions: Obesity is associated with an attenuated overall postprandial decrease in AIx. Subjects with T2DM have a preserved, but significantly prolonged, reduction in AIx after a high-fat meal. The correlation between AIx and triglycerides suggests that postprandial dysmetabolism may impact on vascular dynamics. The markedly different response observed in the obese subjects compared with those with T2DM was unexpected and warrants additional evaluation.

Active and reactive power control of synchronous generator for the realization of a virtual power plant

This paper presents a novel power control strategy that decouples the active and reactive power for a synchronous generator connected to a power network. The proposed control paradigm considers the capacitance of the transmission line along with its resistance and reactance as-well. Moreover the proposed controller takes into account all cases of R-X relationships, thus allowing it to function in Virtual Power Plant (VPP) structures which operate at both medium voltage (MV) and low voltage (LV) levels. The independent control of active and reactive power is achieved through rotational transformations of the terminal voltages and currents at the synchronous generator's output. This paper details the control technique by first presenting the mathematical and electrical network analysis of the methodology and then successfully implementing the control using MATLAB-SIMULINK simulation.

Designing a new robust on-line secondary path modeling technique for feedforward active noise control systems

Several approaches have been introduced in the literature for active noise control (ANC) systems. Since the filtered-x least-mean-square (FxLMS) algorithm appears to be the best choice as a controller filter, researchers tend to improve performance of ANC systems by enhancing and modifying this algorithm. This paper proposes a new version of the FxLMS algorithm, as a first novelty. In many ANC applications, an on-line secondary path modeling method using white noise as a training signal is required to ensure convergence of the system. As a second novelty, this paper proposes a new approach for on-line secondary path modeling on the basis of a new variable-step-size (VSS) LMS algorithm in feed forward ANC systems. The proposed algorithm is designed so that the noise injection is stopped at the optimum point when the modeling accuracy is sufficient. In this approach, a sudden change in the secondary path during operation makes the algorithm reactivate injection of the white noise to re-adjust the secondary path estimate. Comparative simulation results shown in this paper indicate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in reducing both narrow-band and broad-band noise. In addition, the proposed ANC system is robust against sudden changes of the secondary path model.

Vibrational spectroscopic characterization of the phosphate mineral phosphophyllite – Zn2Fe(PO4)2·4H2O, from Hagendorf Süd, Germany and in comparison with other zinc phosphates

This research was undertaken on phosphophyllite sample from the Hagendorf Süd pegmatite, Bavaria, Germany. Chemical analysis was carried out by Scanning Electron Microscope in the EDS mode and indicates a zinc and iron phosphate with partial substitution of manganese, which partially replaced iron. The calculated chemical formula of the studied sample was determined to be: Zn2(Fe0.65, Mn0.35)P1.00(PO4)2- �4(H2O). The intense Raman peak at 995 cm�1 is assigned to the m1 PO3� 4 symmetric stretching mode and the two Raman bands at 1073 and 1135 cm�1 to the m3 PO3� 4 antisymmetric stretching modes. The m4 PO3� 4 bending modes are observed at 505, 571, 592 and 653 cm�1 and the m2 PO3� 4 bending mode at 415 cm�1. The sharp Raman band at 3567 cm�1 attributed to the stretching vibration of OH units brings into question the actual formula of phosphophyllite. Vibrational spectroscopy enables an assessment of the molecular structure of phosphophyllite to be assessed.

Infrared and Raman spectroscopic characterization of the phosphate mineral leucophosphite - K(Fe3+)2(PO4)2(OH)·2(H2O)

The phosphate mineral leucophosphite K(Fe2)3þ(PO4)2(OH) · 2H2O has been characterized by SEM-EDS, Raman, and infrared spectro- scopic measurements. The mineral is predominantly a K and Fe phosphate with some minor substitution of Al in the Fe3þ site. Raman bands at 994 and 1058 cm-1 are assigned to the symmetric stretching modes of PO3- and HPO2- units. The Raman bands at 1104, 1135, and 1177 cm-1 are assigned to the PO3- and HPO2- antisymmetric stretching modes. Raman and infrared spectra in the 2600–3800 cm-1 region show a complex set of overlapping bands, which may be resolved into the component bands. The Raman bands observed at 3325, 3355, and 3456 cm-1 are attributed to water stretching vibrations, and in the infrared spectrum, bands at 3237, 3317, and 3453 cm-1 are assigned to water stretching bands.

Graphene-like nano-sheets based LiTaO3 surface acoustic wave NO2 gas sensor

Thin films consisting of graphene-like nano-sheets were deposited onto LiTaO3 surface acoustic wave transducers. A thickness of less than 10 nm and the existence of C-C bond were observed during the characterization of graphene-like nano-sheets. Frequency shift of 18.7 kHz and 14.9 kHz towards 8.5 ppm NO2 at two different operating temperature, 40°C and 25°C, respectively, was observed.

A new research agenda into community-based protest in construction

Many countries face enormous development challenges in adapting to demographic change, urbanisation and emerging issues such as housing affordability and climate change. These challenges are best resolved in consultation with communities rather than in conflict with them. A rich tradition of research and intellectual frameworks exist in the fields of urban geography and planning to understand and manage community concerns during the pre-development approval stages of new projects. However current theoretical frameworks are inadequate in construction management and a new research agenda is needed to develop conceptual frameworks to guide thinking about the role of communities in the construction process. By discussing the components of such a model, it is concluded that this would require a fundamental shift in thinking which challenges traditional structuralist paradigms. A new constructivist paradigm is presented that conceives community consultation as a negotiation process which does not stop at the pre-development planning stages but which continues over the entire life of a project.

Vibrational spectroscopy of the mineral meyerhofferite CaB3O3(OH)5·H2O – An assessment of the molecular structure

Meyerhofferite is a calcium hydrated borate mineral with ideal formula: CaB3O3(OH)5�H2O and occurs as white complex acicular to crude crystals with length up to �4 cm, in fibrous divergent, radiating aggregates or reticulated and is often found in sedimentary or lake-bed borate deposits. The Raman spectrum of meyerhofferite is dominated by intense sharp band at 880 cm�1 assigned to the symmetric stretching mode of trigonal boron. Broad Raman bands at 1046, 1110, 1135 and 1201 cm�1 are attributed to BOH in-plane bending modes. Raman bands in the 900–1000 cm�1 spectral region are assigned to the antisymmetric stretching of tetrahedral boron. Distinct OH stretching Raman bands are observed at 3400, 3483 and 3608 cm�1. The mineral meyerhofferite has a distinct Raman spectrum which is different from the spectrum of other borate minerals, making Raman spectroscopy a very useful tool for the detection of meyerhofferite in sedimentary and lake bed deposits.

The role of defects, or active states, in surface electrochemistry with particular reference to gold in neutral solution

Metastable, active, or nonequilibrium states due to the presence of abnormal structures and various types of defects are well known in metallurgy. The role of such states at gold surfaces in neutral aqueous media (an important electrode system in the microsensor area) was explored using cyclic voltammetry. It was demonstrated that, as postulated in earlier work from this laboratory, there is a close relationship between premonolayer oxidation, multilayer hydrous oxide reduction and electrocatalytic behaviour in the case of this and other metal electrode systems. Some of the most active, and therefore most important, entities at surfaces (e.g., metal adatoms) are not readily imageable or detectable by high resolution surface microscopy techniques. Cyclic voltammetry, however, provides significant, though not highly specific, information about such species. The main conclusion is that further practical and theoretical work on active states of metal surfaces is highly desirable as their behaviour is not simple and is of major importance in many electrocatalytic processes.

A vibrational spectroscopic study of the phosphate mineral rimkorolgite (Mg,Mn2+)5(Ba, Sr)(PO4)4·8H2O from Kovdor massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia

We have studied aspect of the molecular structure of the phosphate mineral rimkorolgite from Zheleznyi iron mine, Kovdor massif, Kola Peninsula, Russia, using SEM with EDX and vibrational spectroscopy. Qualitative chemical analysis shows a homogeneous phase, composed by P, Mg, Ba, Mn and Ca. Small amounts of Si were also observed. An intense Raman peak at 975 cm−1 is assigned to the PO43− ν1 symmetric stretching mode. The Raman band at 964 cm−1 is attributed to the HPO42− ν1 symmetric stretching vibration. Raman bands observed at 1016, 1035, 1052, 1073, 1105 and 1135 cm−1 are attributed to the ν3 antisymmetric stretching vibrations of the HPO42− and PO43− units. Complexity in the spectra of the phosphate bending region is observed. The broad Raman band at 3272 cm−1 is assigned to the water stretching vibration. Vibrational spectroscopy enables aspects on the molecular structure of rimkorolgite to be undertaken.

Pharmacokinetics and tumor disposition of PEGylated, methotrexate conjugated poly-l-lysine dendrimers

Dendrimers have potential for delivering chemotherapeutic drugs to solid tumours via the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect. The impact of conjugation of hydrophobic anticancer drugs to hydrophilic PEGylated dendrimer surfaces, however, has not been fully investigated. The current study has therefore characterised the effect on dendrimer disposition of conjugating α-carboxyl protected methotrexate (MTX) to a series of PEGylated 3H-labelled poly-L-lysine dendrimers ranging in size from generation 3 (G3) to 5 (G5) in rats. Dendrimers contained 50% surface PEG and 50% surface MTX. Conjugation of MTX generally increased plasma clearance when compared to conjugation with PEG alone. Conversely, increasing generation reduced clearance, increased metabolic stability and reduced renal elimination of the administered radiolabel. For constructs with molecular weights >20 kDa increasing the molecular weight of conjugated PEG also reduced clearance and enhanced metabolic stability but had only a minimal effect on renal elimination. Tissue distribution studies revealed retention of MTX conjugated smaller (G3-G4) PEG570 dendrimers (or their metabolic products) in the kidneys. In contrast, the larger G5 dendrimer was concentrated more in the liver and spleen. The G5 PEG1100 dendrimer was also shown to accumulate in solid Walker 256 and HT1080 tumours and comparative disposition data in both rats (1 to 2% dose/g in tumour) and mice (11% dose/g in tumour) are presented. The results of this study further illustrate the potential utility of biodegradable PEGylated poly-L-lysine dendrimers as long circulating vectors for the delivery and tumour-targeting of hydrophobic drugs.

Outcomes in gastric and junctional cancer using neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy (epirubicin, oxaliplatin, and capecitabine) and radical surgery

Background The MAGIC/UK Medical Research Council (MRC) trial set the standard of care for treatment of resectable gastric and junctional adenocarcinoma, demonstrating that perioperative chemotherapy with epirubicin, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (ECF) confers a survival benefit over surgery alone. The randomized ECF for advanced and locally advanced esophagogastric cancer (REAL-2) trial showed that, in the metastatic setting, the EOX regimen (epirubicin, oxaliplatin and capecitabine) is as effective as ECF, with a favourable toxicity profile. Methods Consecutive patients with resectable gastric or junctional adenocarcinoma treated with perioperative EOX, between 2007 and 2012, were retrospectively analysed. Results Fifty-nine patients (12 female, 47 male), commenced EOX therapy; 47 underwent surgery. A good pathological response was seen in 34 %, (16/47). Disease recurrence occurred in 19 patients (19/47, 40 %). Median overall survival was 22 months, with 4-year survival of 47 %. Chemotoxicities were consistent with those previously reported for this regimen. Conclusion This study in a high-volume centre demonstrates that EOX in resectable gastric and junctional adenocarcinoma is associated with a reasonable safety profile, and efficacy consistent with that reported for ECF.

Orthographic/phonological facilitation of naming responses in the picture-word task: An event-related fMRI study using overt vocal responding

In the picture-word interference task, naming responses are facilitated when a distractor word is orthographically and phonologically related to the depicted object as compared to an unrelated word. We used event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the cerebral hemodynamic responses associated with this priming effect. Serial (or independent-stage) and interactive models of word production that explicitly account for picture-word interference effects assume that the locus of the effect is at the level of retrieving phonological codes, a role attributed recently to the left posterior superior temporal cortex (Wernicke's area). This assumption was tested by randomly presenting participants with trials from orthographically related and unrelated distractor conditions and acquiring image volumes coincident with the estimated peak hemodynamic response for each trial. Overt naming responses occurred in the absence of scanner noise, allowing reaction time data to be recorded. Analysis of this data confirmed the priming effect. Analysis of the fMRI data revealed blood oxygen level-dependent signal decreases in Wernicke's area and the right anterior temporal cortex, whereas signal increases were observed in the anterior cingulate, the right orbitomedial prefrontal, somatosensory, and inferior parietal cortices, and the occipital lobe. The results are interpreted as supporting the locus for the facilitation effect as assumed by both classes of theoretical model of word production. In addition, our results raise the possibilities that, counterintuitively, picture-word interference might be increased by the presentation of orthographically related distractors, due to competition introduced by activation of phonologically related word forms, and that this competition requires inhibitory processes to be resolved. The priming effect is therefore viewed as being sufficient to offset the increased interference. We conclude that information from functional imaging studies might be useful for constraining theoretical models of word production.

Co-assembly of a Nafion-Mesoporous Zirconium Phosphate Composite Membrane for PEM Fuel Cells

Synthesis of mesoporous zirconium phosphate (MZP) by co-assembly of a tri-block copolymer, namely pluronic-F127, as a structure-directing agent, and a mixture of zirconium butoxide and phosphorous trichloride as inorganic precursors is reported. MZP with a specific surface area of 84 m(2) g(-1) average pore diameter of about 17 nm and pore volume of 0.35 cm(3) g(-1) has been prepared, and characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy. Nafion-MZP composite membrane is obtained by employing MZP as a surface-functionalised solid-super-acid-proton-conducting medium as well as all inorganic filler with high affinity to absorb water and fast proton-transport across the electrolyte membrane even under low relative humidity (RH) conditions. The composite membranes have been evaluated in H-2/O-2 polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) at varying RH values between 18 and 100%; a peak power density of 355 mW cm(-2) at a load current density of 1,100 mA cm(-2) is achieved with the PEFC employing Nafion-MZP composite membrane while operating at optimum temperature (70 degrees C) under 18% RH and ambient pressure. On operating the PEFC employing Nafion-MZP membrane electrolyte with hydrogen and air feeds at ambient pressure and a RH value of 18%, a peak power density of 285 mW cm(-2) at the optimum temperature (60 degrees C) is achieved. In contrast, operating under identical conditions, a peak power density of only similar to 170 mW cm(-2) is achieved with the PEFC employing Nafion-1135 membrane electrolyte.

A collaborative design to adaptively manage for landscape sustainability in north Australia: lessons from a decade of cooperative research

Approaches to manage for the sustainable use of natural and cultural resources in a landscape can have many different designs. One design is adaptive collaborative landscape management (ACLM) where research providers and users work closely together on projects to develop resources while adaptively managing to sustain or maintain landscapes in the long term. We propose that collaborative projects are more useful for achieving outcomes than integrative projects where participants merely join their separate contributions. To foster collaborative research projects to adaptively manage landscapes in northern Australia, a Tropical Savannas Cooperative Research Centre (TSCRC) was established in 1995. The TSCRC is a joint venture of major organizations involved in research and land management. This paper is our perspective on the four most important 'lessons learned' after using a ACLM-type approach for over 10 y. We learnt that collaboration (working in combination) not necessarily integration (combining parts into a whole) achieved sustainable outcomes. We found that integration across culturally diverse perspectives seldom achieved sustainable solutions because it devalued the position of the less empowered participants. In addition, positive outcomes were achieved when participants developed trust and respect for each other by embracing and respecting their differences and by sharing unifying concepts such as savanna health. Another lesson learned was that a collaborative organization must act as an honest broker by resisting advocacy of one view point over another. Finally, we recognized the importance of strongly investing in communication and networking so that people could adaptively learn from one another's experiences, understand each other's challenges and respect each other's choices. Our experience confirms the usefulness of the ACLM approach and highlights its role in the process of sustaining healthy landscapes.