bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary restriction mitigates cocaine‐induced alterations of olfactory bulb cellular plasticity and gene expression, and behavior
Authors: Xu Xiangru , Mughal Mohamed R. , Scott Hall F. , Perona Maria T. G. , Pistell Paul J. , Lathia Justin D. , Chigurupati Srinivasulu , Becker Kevin G. , Ladenheim Bruce , Niklason Laura E. , Uhl George R. , Cadet Jean Lud , Mattson Mark P.
Published: April 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 323–334.

Because the olfactory system plays a major role in food consumption, and because ‘food addiction’ and associated morbidities have reached epidemic proportions, we tested the hypothesis that dietary energy restriction can modify adverse effects of cocaine on behavior and olfactory cellular and molecular plasticity. Mice maintained on an alternate day fasting (ADF) diet exhibited increased baseline locomotion and increased cocaine‐sensitized locomotion during cocaine conditioning, despite no change in cocaine conditioned place preference, compared with mice fedad libitum. Levels of dopamine and its metabolites in the olfactory bulb (OB) were suppressed in mice on the ADF diet compared with mice on the control diet, independent of acute or chronic cocaine treatment. The expression of several enzymes involved in dopamine metabolism including tyrosine hydroxylase, monoamine oxidases A and B, and catechol‐O‐methyltransferase were significantly reduced in OBs of mice on the ADF diet. Both acute and chronic administration of cocaine suppressed the production of new OB cells, and this effect of cocaine was attenuated in mice on the ADF diet. Cocaine administration to mice on the control diet resulted in up‐regulation of OB genes involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism, synaptic plasticity, cellular stress responses, and calcium‐ and cAMP‐mediated signaling, whereas multiple olfactory receptor genes were down‐regulated by cocaine treatment. ADF abolished many of the effects of cocaine on OB gene expression. Our findings reveal that dietary energy intake modifies the neural substrates underlying some of the behavioral and physiological responses to repeated cocaine treatment, and also suggest novel roles for the olfactory system in addiction. The data further suggest that modification of dietary energy intake could provide a novel potential approach to addiction treatments.
Microglial activation depends on beta‐amyloid conformation: role of the formylpeptide receptor 2
Authors: Heurtaux Tony , Michelucci Alessandro , Losciuto Sophie , Gallotti Christian , Felten Paul , Dorban Gauthier , Grandbarbe Luc , Morga Eleonora , Heuschling Paul
Published: April 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 576–586.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the presence of extracellular deposits referred to beta‐amyloid (Aβ) complexes or senile plaques. Aβ peptide is firstly produced as monomers, readily aggregating to form multimeric complexes, of which the smallest aggregates are known to be the most neurotoxic. In AD patients, abundant reactive microglia migrate to and surround the Aβ plaques. Though it is well known that microglia are activated by Aβ, little is known about the peptide conformation and the signaling cascades responsible for this activation. In this study, we have stimulated murine microglia with different Aβ(1‐42) forms, inducing an inflammatory state, which was peptide conformation‐dependent. The lightest oligomeric forms induced a more violent inflammatory response, whereas the heaviest oligomers and the fibrillar conformation were less potent inducers. BocMLF, a formylpeptide chemotactic receptor 2 antagonist, decreased the oligomeric Aβ‐induced inflammatory response. The Aβ‐induced signal transduction was found to depend on phosphorylation mechanisms mediated by MAPKs and on activator protein 1/nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells pathways activation. These results suggest that the reactive microgliosis intensity during AD might depend on the disease progression and consequently on the Aβ conformation production. The recognition of Aβ by the formylpeptide chemotactic receptor 2 seems to be a starting point of the signaling cascade inducing an inflammatory state.
Aromaticl‐amino acid decarboxylase phosphorylation and activation by PKGIαin vitro
Authors: Duchemin Anne‐Marie , Neff Norton H. , Hadjiconstantinou Maria
Published: April 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 542–552.

Brain aromaticl‐amino acid decarboxylase (AAAD) is subject to regulation, and phosphorylation might be involved in the short‐term activation of the enzyme. Sites for serine/threonine phosphorylation are present in the deduced amino acid sequence of AAAD, and cAMP‐dependent protein kinase phosphorylates and activates neuronal AAADin vitro.We now report that cGMP‐dependent protein kinase (PKG) is able to phosphorylate and activate neuronal AAAD. In anin vitrokinase assay, immunoprecipitated native and recombinant mouse brain AAAD was rapidly phosphorylated by exogenous PKGIα. When added to striatal homogenates, PKGIα increased AAAD activity in a temporal fashion similar to phosphorylation. Recombinant AAAD was also activated by the kinase demonstrating a direct effect. Native enzyme activation was moderate and characterized by increasedVmaxandKmforl‐DOPA. A PKG peptide inhibitor prevented AAAD phosphorylation and activation providing specificity, and causally linking the two events. Together, the findings provide evidence for PKGIα‐dependent phosphorylation and activation of neuronal AAADin vitro, and introduce AAAD as a putative PKGIα substrate. Neuronal AAAD is best known for its role in the biosynthesis of catecholamines, indoleamines and trace amines in the nervous system, and the biological importance of PKGIα phosphorylation in these processes remains to be determined.
Chromogranins as regulators of exocytosis
Authors: Borges Ricardo , Díaz‐Vera Jésica , Domínguez Natalia , Arnau María Rosa , Machado José D.
Published: April 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 335–343.

Chromogranins (Cgs) constitute the main protein component in the vesicular matrix of large dense core vesicles (LDCV). These acidic proteins have been implicated in several physiological processes such as vesicle sorting, the generation of bioactive peptides and the accumulation of soluble species inside LDCV. This latter feature of Cgs accounts for the ability of vesicles to concentrate catecholamines and Ca2+. Indeed, the low affinity and high capacity of Cgs to bind solutes at the low pH of the LDCV lumen seems to be behind the delay in the neurotransmitter exit towards the extracellular milieu after vesicle fusion. The availability of new mouse strains lacking Cgs in combination with the arrival of several techniques for the direct monitoring of exocytosis (like amperometry, patch‐amperometry and intracellular electrochemistry), have helped advance our understanding of how these granins concentrate catecholamines and Ca2+in LDCV, and how they influence the kinetics of exocytosis. In this review, we will discuss the roles of Cgs A and B in maintaining the intravesicular environment of secretory vesicles and in exocytosis, bringing together the most recent findings from adrenal chromaffin cells.
The Effect of the WIC Program on the Health of Newborns
Authors: Foster E. Michael , Jiang Miao , Gibson‐Davis Christina M.
Published: April 2010

Objective.To determine the effect of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) on birth outcomes.

Data Source.The Child Development Supplement (CDS) of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID). The PSID provides extensive data on the income and well‐being of a representative sample of U.S. families from 1968 to present. The CDS collects information on the children in PSID families ranging from cognitive, behavioral, and health status to their family and neighborhood environment. The first two waves of the CDS were conducted in 1997 and 2002, respectively. We use information on 3,181 children and their mothers.

Study Design.We use propensity score matching with multiple imputations to examine whether WIC program influences birth outcomes: birth weight, prematurity, maternal report of the infant's health, small for gestational age, and placement in the neonatal intensive care unit. Furthermore, we use a fixed‐effects model to examine the above outcomes controlling for mother‐specific unobservables.

Principal Findings.After using propensity scores to adjust for confounding factors, WIC shows no statistically significant effects for any of six outcomes. Fixed‐effects models, however, reveal some effects that are statistically significant and fairly substantial in size. These involve preterm birth and birth weight.

Conclusions.Overall, the WIC program had moderate effects, but findings were sensitive to the estimation method used.
Outcome from status epilepticus after portosystemic shunt attenuation in 3 dogs treated with propofol and phenobarbital
Authors: Gommeren Kris , Claeys Stéphanie , De Rooster Hilde , Hamaide Annick , Daminet Sylvie
Published: April 2010

Objective
–
To describe outcome of treatment with propofol and phenobarbital for status epilepticus (SE) after portosystemic shunt (PSS) attenuation.

Case or Series Summary
–
Three dogs without preceding seizure activity, were diagnosed with a single extrahepatic PSS. Following standard preoperative medical therapy, an ameroid constrictor was placed surgically. Recovery was uneventful until spontaneous SE developed 46–96 hours after surgery. After unsuccessful seizure control with benzodiazepines, dogs were treated with a bolus of propofol followed by a propofol constant rate infusion. Phenobarbital was concurrently administered and supportive care was optimized. All dogs recovered uneventfully over the next 7–9 days. Over the following months phenobarbital was slowly tapered. All dogs have been free from antiepileptic drugs for several months, without recurrence of neurologic signs.

New or Unique Information Provided
–
In this case series, we describe the treatment of 3 dogs with propofol and phenobarbital for refractory SE following attenuation of a single congenital PSS. After weaning of the propofol constant rate infusion, and tapering and discontinuation of phenobarbital over the following months, all dogs experienced a complete recovery. This study provides evidence that use of propofol in combination with phenobarbital may be efficacious for management of SE in dogs after PSS surgery.
A Quick Esthetic Remount Cast for All‐Ceramic Restorations
Authors: Hansen Paul A. , Gist Julie
Published: April 2010

A technique is presented for the expedited fabrication of a remount cast for the alteration of all‐ceramic crowns and fixed partial dentures. The remount cast allows the laboratory technician to know the precise location of the gingival tissues and allows modification of all‐ceramic restorations.
The Role of Informal Institutions in U.S. Immigration Policy: The Case of Illegal Labor Migration from Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Liebert Saltanat
Published: April 2010

Immigration is a sensitive topic on the American political, social, and economic agenda. Globalization as well as the end of the Cold War have meant that people are on the move worldwide as never before. Millions of people from poor countries migrate to richer ones to provide better lives for themselves and their families through legal and illegal channels. Heated debates surround this subject. A dramatic divide persists between proponents, who equate immigration policy with civil rights, and opponents, who cite the burden of illegal immigration on public education and public welfare systems. The author argues that informal institutions involved in migration processes, such as migrant smuggling networks, explain why the current crisis persists. The role of informal institutions is examined by focusing on those who migrate from Kyrgyzstan to the United States seeking low‐wage labor. The author generalizes how formal and informal institutions interact in the processes of migration and how informal institutions decisively influence immigration‐related policies in the United States.
Gender Differences in the Clinical Characteristics and Atrioventricular Nodal Conduction Properties in Patients With Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia
Authors: SUENARI KAZUYOSHI , HU YU‐FENG , TSAO HSUAN‐MING , TAI CHING‐TAI , CHIANG CHERN‐EN , LIN YENN‐JIANG , CHANG SHIH‐LIN , LO LI‐WEI , TA‐CHUAN TUAN , LEE PI‐CHANG , TUNG NGUYEN HUU , HUANG SHIH‐YU , WU TSU‐JUEY , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: April 2010

Gender Differences in Patients With AVNRT. Introduction: The detailed electrophysiological characteristics of the gender differences associated with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) have not been clarified. This study investigated the gender‐related electrophysiological differences in a large series of patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation.

Methods and Results: A total of 2,088 consecutive AVNRT patients (men/women 869/1,219) who underwent catheter ablation were enrolled in this study. We evaluated the gender differences in their electrophysiological characteristics. Women had a significantly younger age of onset, higher incidence of multiple jumps, shorter AH interval, atrial effective refractory period (ERP), anterograde fast pathway ERP, anterograde slow pathway ERP, and retrograde slow pathway ERP, and longer ventricular ERP than men. The incidence of baseline ventriculoatrial dissociation was lower in women than in men. Women needed less isoproterenol/atropine to induce AVNRT. No gender differences in the radiation exposure time, procedure time, complication rate, acute success rate, or second procedure rate were noted. Both typical and atypical AVNRT were more predominant in women. In the patients with atypical AVNRT, there was no significant gender difference in incidence of baseline ventriculoatrial dissociation; however, the retrograde slow pathway ERP was significantly shorter in women than in men. Women of premenopausal age (≤50 years old) had a significantly higher incidence of anterograde multiple jumps and a retrograde jump phenomenon, and a shorter anterograde slow pathway ERP and retrograde slow pathway ERP than those of women over 50 years old.

Conclusion: Gender differences in the anterograde and retrograde AV nodal electrophysiology were noted in the patients with AVNRT. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1114‐1119)
Functional Properties of the Superior Vena Cava (SVC)‐Aorta Ganglionated Plexus: Evidence Suggesting an Autonomic Basis for Rapid SVC Firing
Authors: LU ZHIBING , SCHERLAG BENJAMIN J. , NIU GUODONG , LIN JIAXIONG , FUNG KAR‐MING , ZHAO LICHAO , YU LILEI , JACKMAN WARREN M. , LAZZARA RALPH , JIANG HONG , PO SUNNY S.
Published: April 2010

Superior Vena Cava‐Aorta Ganglionated Plexus. Introduction: The mechanism underlying spontaneous rapid superior vena cava (SVC) firing that initiates atrial fibrillation (AF) remains poorly understood. We investigated the role of the SVC‐aorta‐ganglionated plexus (SVC‐Ao‐GP) in AF initiated by rapid firing from the SVC.

Methods and Results:
In 42 dogs, a circular catheter was positioned above the SVC‐atrial junction. Multielectrode catheters were sutured on atria, atrial appendages and pulmonary veins. The effective refractory period (ERP) and window of vulnerability (WOV) for AF were measured at all sites in the baseline state, during cervical vagosympathetic trunk stimulation and during SVC‐Ao‐GP stimulation, before and after SVC‐Ao‐GP ablation. AF inducibility was also assessed by delivering high‐frequency stimulation (HFS) within myocardial refractory period to the SVC before and after SVC‐Ao‐GP ablation. HFS applied to the SVC‐Ao‐GP slowed the sinus rate and/or atrioventricular conduction. HFS of the SVC‐Ao‐GP induced more significant shortening of ERP and a greater increase in WOV at the SVC than other sites. Ablation of the SVC‐Ao‐GP significantly increased the baseline ERP and decreased the baseline WOV only at the SVC. AF induced at the SVC by HFS during refractoriness was eliminated by ablation of the SVC‐Ao‐GP but was not altered by ablation of the 4 major atrial GP. Direct injection of acetylcholine into the SVC‐Ao‐GP initiated rapid firing from the SVC in every case.

Conclusions:
The SVC‐Ao‐GP preferentially modulates the electrophysiological function of the SVC sleeves and may contribute to rapid firing from the SVC. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1392‐1399, December 2010)
Repolarization Dynamics During Exercise Discriminate Between LQT1 and LQT2 Genotypes
Authors: SY RAYMOND W. , CHATTHA ISHVINDER S. , KLEIN GEORGE J. , GULA LORNE J. , SKANES ALLAN C. , YEE RAYMOND , BENNETT MATTHEW T. , KRAHN ANDREW D.
Published: April 2010

Genotype and Exercise in LQTS. Background: Repolarization dynamics during exercise in patients with long‐QT Syndrome (LQTS) may be influenced by various factors such as a patient's genotype. We sought to systematically characterize the repolarization dynamics during exercise in patients with LQTS with a particular focus on the influence of genotype.

Methods:
Three groups of patients were studied on the basis of clinical status and genotype: LQT1, LQT2, and normal controls. Twenty‐five age‐ and gender‐matched patients were selected for each group. The QTc was measured during bicycle exercise testing and its dynamics were compared between the 3 groups.

Results:
The degree of QTc prolongation during exercise was greater in LQTS patients (LQT1 80 ± 47 ms, LQT2 64 ± 41 ms, Control 46 ± 20 ms, P = 0.02), with significant differences between LQT1 and LQT2 patients observed at heart rates ≥60% of the predicted maximum (P < 0.05). LQT1 patients demonstrated progressive or persistent QTc prolongation at higher heart rates, whereas LQT2 patients demonstrated maximum QTc prolongation at submaximal heart rates (∼50% of the predicted maximum) with subsequent QTc correction toward baseline values at higher heart rates. Importantly, these observations were consistent regardless of age, gender, or exercise type in subgroup analyses.

Conclusions:
Reduced repolarization reserve in LQTS is genotype and heart rate specific. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1242‐1246, November 2010)
Risk Factors for Recurrent Heart Failure Events in the Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial II (MADIT‐II)
Authors: SZE EDWARD , MOSS ARTHUR J. , MCNITT SCOTT , BARSHESHET ALON , ANDREWS MARK L. , ZAREBA WOJCIECH , GOLDENBERG ILAN ,   for the Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial‐II Investigators
Published: April 2010

Risk Factors for Recurrent Heart Failure. Background: This study was designed to identify risk factors for recurrent heart failure (HF) events in patients with ischemic left ventricular dysfunction enrolled in the Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial II (MADIT‐II).

Methods and Results:
The Prentice, Williams, and Peterson (PWP) statistical model was utilized to identify and compare risk factors for 1 or ≥2 HF hospitalizations among 1,218 patients with ischemic left ventricular dysfunction enrolled in the MADIT‐II trial.

Risk factors for a first HF hospitalization included treatment with an ICD (HR = 1.31; P = 0.05), New York Heart Association class >II (HR = 1.95; P < 0.001), female gender (HR = 1.38; P = 0.05), atrial fibrillation (HR = 1.90; P = 0.001), QRS >120 ms (HR = 1.41; P = 0.01), diabetes mellitus (HR = 1.51; P = 0.003), heart rate ≥80 (HR = 1.35; P = 0.04), diuretic therapy (HR = 1.82; P < 0.001), and the presence of prerenal azotemia (defined as blood urea nitrogen:creatinine >20; HR = 1.45; P = 0.01). In contrast, prerenal azotemia was the only risk factor that was independently associated with a significant increase in the risk of ≥2 HF hospitalizations (HR = 1.52; P = 0.027). The occurrence of 1 HF event after enrolment was associated with a 2.8‐fold (P < 0.001) increase in the risk of death, whereas after the occurrence of a second event there was a 6.7‐fold (P < 0.001) increase in the risk of subsequent mortality.

Conclusions:
In MADIT‐II, prerenal azotemia was the only significant and independent risk factor for HF progression after a first event, and recurrent HF was the most powerful predictor of mortality. These findings stress the importance of identifying risk factors for HF progression among patients who receive an ICD for primary prevention. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1217‐1223, November 2010)
Electrical Activation of Sinus Venosus Myocardium and Expression Patterns of RhoA and Isl‐1 in the Chick Embryo
Authors: VICENTE‐STEIJN REBECCA , KOLDITZ DENISE P. , MAHTAB EDRIS A.F. , ASKAR SAÏD F.A. , BAX NOORTJE A.M. , VAN DER GRAAF LINDA M. , WISSE LAMBERTUS J. , PASSIER ROBERT , PIJNAPPELS DANIËL A. , SCHALIJ MARTIN J. , POELMANN ROBERT E. , GITTENBERGER‐DE GROOT ADRIANA C. , JONGBLOED MONIQUE R.M.
Published: April 2010

Electrical Activity and RhoA in the Embryo. Introduction: Myocardium at the venous pole (sinus venosus) of the heart has gained clinical interest as arrhythmias can be initiated from this area. During development, sinus venosus myocardium is incorporated to the primary heart tube and expresses different markers than primary myocardium. We aimed to elucidate the development of sinus venosus myocardium, including the sinoatrial node (SAN), by studying expression patterns of RhoA in relation to other markers, and by studying electrical activation patterns of the developing sinus venosus myocardium.

Methods and Results:
Expression of RhoA, myocardial markers cTnI and Nkx2.5, transcription factors Isl‐1 and Tbx18, and cation channel HCN4 were examined in sequential stages in chick embryos. Electrical activation patterns were studied using microelectrodes and optical mapping. Embryonic sinus venosus myocardium is cTnI and HCN4 positive, Nkx2.5 negative, complemented by distinct patterns of Isl‐1 and Tbx18. During development, initial myocardium‐wide expression of RhoA becomes restricted to right‐sided sinus venosus myocardium, comprising the SAN. Electrophysiological measurements revealed initial capacity of both atria to show electrical activity that in time shifts to a right‐sided dominance, coinciding with persistence of RhoA, Tbx18, and HCN4 and absence of Nkx2.5 expression in the definitive SAN.

Conclusion:
Results show an initially bilateral electrical potential of sinus venosus myocardium evolving into a right‐sided activation pattern during development, and suggest a role for RhoA in conduction system development. We hypothesize an initial sinus venosus‐wide capacity to generate pacemaker signals, becoming confined to the definitive SAN. Lack of differentiation toward a chamber phenotype would explain ectopic pacemaker foci. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1284‐1292, November 2010)
The Effects of Rate and Rhythm Control on Blood Pressure and Antihypertensive Drug Usage in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Hypertension Enrolled in the AFFIRM Trial
Authors: MASOOD SYED O. , WASMUND STEPHEN L. , AKOUM NAZEM W. , EGGER MARLENE J. , HSIAI TZUNG , HAMDAN MOHAMED H.
Published: April 2010

AF and HTN in the AFFIRM trial. Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been shown to be associated with activation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, endothelial dysfunction, and increased sympathetic activity, all of which could lead to hypertension (HTN). While the effects of HTN on AF incidence and arrhythmogenesis have been reported, the long‐term effects of AF on blood pressure (BP) remain unknown. We hypothesized that a rate control strategy is associated with an increase in BP and/or antihypertensive drug therapy when compared with a rhythm control strategy in patients with a history of AF and HTN.

Methods and Results:
Using the intention to treat method, BP readings and the number of antihypertensive medication categories were analyzed over the first year of follow‐up in patients with AF and HTN enrolled in the AFFIRM trial. No clinically significant changes in BP occurred. Medication data were available in 2,876 patients. In the rate control group, 27.8% of patients required a net increase in the number of antihypertensive medications when compared to 18.3% in the rhythm control group (P < 0.001). Furthermore, 27.1% of patients in the rate control group had a net decrease in the number of antihypertensive medications when compared with 41.7% in the rhythm control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:
Our findings suggest that AF could be contributing to BP elevation in patients with a history of HTN and that a rhythm control strategy might result in a decrease in BP in these patients. This hypothesis however, requires future testing. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1094‐1098)
A Review of the Nutrition Claims Made by Proponents of Organic Food
Authors: Rosen Joseph D.
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT:  Health‐conscious consumers have an interest in knowing if the extra money they spend on organic food is justified. The organic food industry, therefore, has a large financial interest in convincing the public that the food they sell is healthier, tastier, and better for the environment. One area that the industry has concentrated on is the supposed nutritional superiority of their product. The importance of this area to the organic food industry can be seen by the vehemence in which it has attacked and tried to discredit a recent, widely circulated report submitted to the British government that found no scientific evidence for claims that organic food is nutritionally superior to conventional food. Two nongovernment organizations, the Soil Assn. in the United Kingdom and the Organic Center in the United States have been heavily involved in the promotion of organic food. Both of these organizations exert a great deal of influence with the media, and hence with consumers, in both countries. An examination of some of their actions will be included in this article.
The Color of Olive Oils: The Pigments and Their Likely Health Benefits and Visual and Instrumental Methods of Analysis
Authors: Moyano María José , Heredia Francisco J. , Meléndez‐Martínez Antonio J.
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT:  The color of olive oils, and of foods in general, can influence consumer choices to a large extent and can be related to the processing treatments they have undergone. Olive oil color is due to 2 types of pigments, chlorophylls and carotenoids, which are attracting the attention of the scientific community due to the probable health benefits they can provide. Appropriate methodologies for the meaningful definition of the color of olive oil are therefore necessary for various reasons. In this review, we discuss the importance of olive oil color and the applicable legislation and regulation, including sections devoted to the pigments accounting for the growing importance as likely health‐promoting substances. Furthermore, we review in depth the different approaches (visual and instrumental methods) used for color measurements in the last 50 y. Instrumental methods have been shown to be highly appropriate for objective assessments and also for the rapid determination of the pigments.
Functional Foods and Nondairy Probiotic Food Development: Trends, Concepts, and Products
Authors: Granato Daniel , Branco Gabriel F. , Nazzaro Filomena , Cruz Adriano G. , Faria José A.F.
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT:  Recently, the focus of scientific investigations has moved from the primary role of food as the source of energy and body‐forming substances to the more subtle action of biologically active food components on human health. There has been an explosion of consumer interest in the active role of food in the well‐being and life prolongation, as well as in the prevention of initiation, promotion, and development of nontransmissible chronic diseases. As a result, a new term—functional food—was proposed. Among these foods, probiotics may exert positive effects on the composition of gut microbiota and overall health, and the market is increasing annually. An increased demand for nondairy probiotic products comes from vegetarianism, milk cholesterol content, and lactose intolerance. Therefore, the development of these products is a key research priority for food design and a challenge for both industry and science sectors. This article presents an overview of functional food development, emphasizing nondairy foods that contain probiotic bacteria strains.
Barley for Brewing: Characteristic Changes during Malting, Brewing and Applications of its By‐Products
Authors: Gupta Mahesh , Abu‐Ghannam Nissreen , Gallaghar Eimear
Published: April 2010

ABSTRACT: Barley is the basic raw material for brewing. Its chemical composition, brewing, and technological indices are highly determinative for the beer quality and the economical efficiency of the brewing process. Barley is rich in protein, carbohydrates, dietary fibers, minerals, and vitamins. The presence of nonstarch polysaccharides as mixed linkage (1‐3),(1‐4)‐β‐d‐glucans and arabinoxylans together with the enzymes are responsible for barley modification. Malting is a complex process that involves many enzymes; important ones are α‐amylase, β‐amylase, α‐glucosidase, and limit dextrinase. During the process of malting and brewing, the by‐products left after separation of the wort are rich in protein, fibers, arabinoxylans, and β‐glucan. This review summarizes and integrates barley grain with respect to nutritional, functional, and compositional changes that take place during malting and brewing. It also explores in‐depth the several by‐products obtained after brewing and their potential for various food applications. Barley brewing by‐products offer an opportunity for cereal‐based baked and extruded products with acceptable sensory and nutritional characteristics.
Relationship Between Nurses’ Organizational Trust Levels and Their Organizational Citizenship Behaviors
Authors: Altuntas Serap , Baykal Ulku
Published: April 2010

Purpose: This research used a descriptive and explorative design to determine the levels of nurses’ organizational trust and organizational citizenship and to investigate relationships between the levels of organizational trust and organizational citizenship behaviors.

Design and Methods: Nurses who had completed their orientation from a total of 11 hospitals with bed capacities of 100 and located in the European district of Istanbul were included in the sample for this study. Formal, written applications and approval of the ethical committee were obtained from concerned institutions before proceeding with the data collection step. The Organizational Trust Inventory and the Organizational Citizenship Level Scale, a questionnaire form including five questions regarding nurses’ personal characteristics, were used in data collection. Data collection tools were distributed to 900 nurses in total, and usable data were obtained from 482 nurses. Number and percentage calculations and Pearson correlation analysis were used to assess research data.

Findings: The results of the present research showed that nurses had a higher than average level of trust in their managers and coworkers and they trusted more in their managers and coworkers than their institutions. The Organizational Citizenship Level Scale indicated that the behavior most frequently demonstrated by the nurses was conscientiousness, followed by courtesy and civic virtue, whereas sportsmanship was displayed to an average extent. An analysis of relationships between nurses’ level of organizational trust and their organizational citizenship behaviors revealed that nurses who trust in their managers, institutions, and coworkers demonstrated the organizational citizenship behaviors of conscientiousness, civic virtue, courtesy, and altruism more frequently.

Conclusions: The findings attained in this study indicated that the organizational trust the staff had in their institutions, managers, and coworkers influenced the organizational citizenship behaviors of conscientiousness, civic virtue, altruism, and courtesy, whereas it had no effect on sportsmanship behavior. Nurse managers should introduce studies to improve their subordinates’ organizational trust to ensure that they develop organizational citizenship behaviors, and they should support them in this process.

Clinical Relevance: These topics for nursing services will provide guidance to managers, particularly to managers of nursing services, in establishing processes to predict nurses’ organizational commitment, job satisfaction, performance, intention to leave, and other relevant issues.
Hydrothermal Barium Titanate Thin‐Film Characteristics and their Suitability as Decoupling Capacitors
Authors: Markondeya Raj Pulugurtha , Lee Baik‐Woo , Balaraman Devarajan , Kang Nam‐Kee , Lance Michael J. , Meyer Harry , Tummala Rao R.
Published: April 2010

System integration and miniaturization with higher performance is driving thin‐film capacitor technologies toward higher capacitance densities with CMOS or organic package‐compatible processes for noise‐free power supply, power conversion, and efficient power management. The hydrothermal route can deposit crystalline ferroelectric films at low temperatures of <150°C. It is hence an attractive route for integrating high‐permittivity (K) thin‐film capacitors on both organic and silicon substrates. However, hydrothermal films are not commercialized so far because of their inferior insulation characteristics. Hydroxyl groups are attributed to high leakage currents, temperature‐dependent properties, and lower breakdown voltages. This paper discusses the dielectric characteristics such as capacitance density, leakage current, and temperature coefficient of capacitance of hydrothermal barium titanate films and correlates them with the water and OH groups in the film, morphology, stoichiometry, and crystallinity. With thermal treatment, majority of the OH groups can be removed leading to improved insulation characteristics. The room temperature I–V characteristics agreed with ionic conduction models for films baked at 160°C. A brief perspective is provided on the suitability of hydrothermal thin‐film capacitors for decoupling applications.
Effect of Annealing Temperature on Dielectric Relaxation and Raman Scattering of 0.65Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3−0.35PbTiO3 System
Authors: Hou Yudong , Wu Ningning , Wang Chao , Zhu Mankang , Song Xuemei
Published: April 2010

The influences of annealing temperature on the phase transition, dielectrical, and ferroelectric response of 0.65Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3−0.35PbTiO3 (PMN−35PT) have been investigated in detail. X‐ray diffraction combined with Raman spectra analysis indicated that the samples annealed below 1100°C show a complete perovskite structure while at higher temperature, the volatilization of PbO results in the formation of the pyrochlore phase. The relative intensity I740/I800 of A1g mode increased with the increase of annealing temperature, indicating the phase transition to the tetragonal side. The annealing can eliminate the grain‐boundary layer, release the internal stress, and improve the homogeneous distribution of polar nanoregions, resulting in the increase of dielectric constants and the decrease of relaxor behavior. Moreover, the squareness Rsq from the P–E hysteresis loop displayed the enhanced trend with the increase of annealing temperature, which can be attributed to the descending of B‐site cation order.
Low‐Loss Microwave Dielectric Material Based on Magnesium Titanate
Authors: Shih Chuan‐Feng , Li Wei‐Min , Tung Kuo‐Shin , Hsu Wen‐Dong
Published: April 2010

Low‐loss ilmenite magnesium titanate was synthesized from TiO2 and MgO powders prepared separately from chemical solutions. Both of these starting materials were very fine and had a high specific area. MgTiO3 ceramic had a high quality factor (Q×f) of ∼186 000 GHz when reactive sintering (calcination free) was adopted at 1400°C for 4 h. Moreover, a very high Q×f value of 368 000 GHz (at 10 GHz) was observed when classical solid‐state sintering, in which the sintering temperature was as low as 1300°C for 4 h, was applied. The possible mechanism that caused the variation in Q×f values for samples prepared by different sintering processes and initial powders were presented. The proposed low‐loss MgTiO3 is very promising for microwave or millimeter‐wave applications.
Tribalwashing Yemen: US Policy Drones On, Missing the Real Story
Authors: Lin Kanhong
Published: April 2010

Gretchen E Schafft is contributing editor of “Human Rights Forum,” the AAA Committee for Human Rights column in Anthropology News.
Does increase in women's income relative to men's income increase food calorie intake in poor households? Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Aromolaran Adebayo B.
Published: April 2010

This article addresses the important but not widely investigated question of how calorie consumption in African low‐income households would respond to intrahousehold redistribution of income from men to women. Specifically, I use survey data on a sample of 480 households from semirural areas of south‐western Nigeria to analyze the response of per capita calorie intake to changes in women's share of household income, after controlling for per capita income and demographic characteristics at individual, household, and community levels. I also examine the effect of marginal increases in household income on per capita calorie intake conditional on the income distribution factor: women's share of income. My results suggest that redistributing household income from men to women would neither raise per capita food energy intake nor increase the quality of food calorie source of households in rural south‐western Nigeria. I also find that while the income elasticity of quantity of calorie intake is close to zero, income elasticity for quality of calorie intake is substantially positive. I conclude that neither gender‐neutral household income increases nor redistribution of household income in favor of women would substantially motivate increased amounts of food energy intake within households in the population under study. However, gender neutral increase in household income is likely to substantially increase the household demand for high‐quality food calorie sources.
Seasonal movement patterns of Credit River brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Zimmer M. , Schreer J. F. , Power M.
Published: April 2010

Zimmer M, Schreer JF, Power M. Seasonal movement patterns of Credit River brown trout (Salmo trutta). Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 290–299. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract – Movement habits in riverine populations of brown trout vary among watersheds. Thus it is important to identify factors influencing differences in individual behaviour so as to improve the information resource base available for the design of river‐specific management strategies. Such information is particularly needed in the rapidly urbanising watersheds of eastern North America where relatively little is known about anthropogenic influences on brown trout populations. In this study, we examined the influence of water temperature on brown trout behaviour in the Credit River in south‐central Ontario, Canada with respect to seasonal movement patterns. Observed patterns of movement were also correlated with variations in river discharge and habitat quality. Forty‐three radio‐tagged, adult brown trout were tracked in a confined 39.8 km portion of the Credit River from 15 May 2002 to 28 July 2003. Fish were captured in three sections of the river that differed in distance downstream and habitat quality. Fish size had little impact on movement patterns. However, there was considerable variation in seasonal movement with upstream movements to summer positions, maintenance of summer positions, downstream and often extensive movements in fall. Also observed was maintenance of winter positions and repeated upstream movements in late spring‐early summer to previously used summer positions. The elaborate movement behaviour in the Credit River population was attributed to seasonal changes in thermal habitat quality. Fish tagged in less suitable thermal habitats moved significantly more than fish from more suitable thermal habitats.
Influence of river conditions during seaward migration and ocean conditions on survival rates of Snake River Chinook salmon and steelhead
Authors: Petrosky C. E. , Schaller H. A.
Published: April 2010

Petrosky CE, Schaller HA. Influence of river conditions during seaward migration and ocean conditions on survival rates of Snake River Chinook salmon and steelhead. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 520–536. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Improved understanding of the relative influence of ocean and freshwater factors on survival of at‐risk anadromous fish populations is critical to success of conservation and recovery efforts. Abundance and smolt to adult survival rates of Snake River Chinook salmon and steelhead decreased dramatically coincident with construction of hydropower dams in the 1970s. However, separating the influence of ocean and freshwater conditions is difficult because of possible confounding factors. We used long time‐series of smolt to adult survival rates for Chinook salmon and steelhead to estimate first year ocean survival rates. We constructed multiple regression models that explained the survival rate patterns using environmental indices for ocean conditions and in‐river conditions experienced during seaward migration. Survival rates during the smolt to adult and first year ocean life stages for both species were associated with both ocean and river conditions. Best‐fit, simplest models indicate that lower survival rates for Chinook salmon are associated with warmer ocean conditions, reduced upwelling in the spring, and with slower river velocity during the smolt migration or multiple passages through powerhouses at dams. Similarly, lower survival rates for steelhead are associated with warmer ocean conditions, reduced upwelling in the spring, and with slower river velocity and warmer river temperatures. Given projections for warming ocean conditions, a precautionary management approach should focus on improving in‐river migration conditions by increasing water velocity, relying on increased spill, or other actions that reduce delay of smolts through the river corridor during their seaward migration.
Ontogenetic diet shift in the June suckerChasmistes liorus(Cypriniformes, Catostomidae) in the early juvenile stage
Authors: Kreitzer J. D. , Belk M. C. , Gonzalez D. B. , Tuckfield R. C. , Shiozawa D. K. , Rasmussen J. E.
Published: April 2010

Kreitzer JD, Belk MC, Gonzalez DB, Tuckfield RC, Shiozawa DK, Rasmussen JE. Ontogenetic diet shift in the June suckerChasmistes liorus(Cypriniformes, Catostomidae) in the early juvenile stage. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 433–438. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract – Ontogenetic diet shifts are common in fishes and often occur during early life stages. The larval and early juvenile period is critical in the life cycle of the endangered June sucker,Chasmistes liorus(Teleostei: Catostomidae). High larval and juvenile mortality leads to low recruitment to the breeding population and hence a declining natural population. To understand diet composition and dynamics in June sucker at early life stages, diet was quantified and compared to available food items in the natural environment during the early juvenile stage. Rotifers (Brachionussp.) were the primary diet item at week 10, but by week 12 a small cyclopoid copepod (Microcyclops rubellus) became predominant. Availability of diet items varied little across the experimental period. The increase in size of young suckers may explain this rapid dietary shift, but there are some inconsistencies with the size selection argument. This diet shift represents an important nutritional change that should be considered in development of diets for young June sucker and in assessing suitability of nursery habitats.
Assessing the Impact of Vomiting Episodes on Outcome after Acetaminophen Poisoning
Authors: Zyoud Sa’ed H. , Awang Rahmat , Sulaiman Syed Azhar Syed , Al‐Jabi Samah W.
Published: April 2010

Abstract:  Identifying indices of poor prognosis at first presentation after acetaminophen poisoning is the key to both improving clinical care and determining targets for intervention. This study intended to document the prevalence, clinical characteristics and predictors of vomiting and to investigate the relationship between episodes of vomiting at first hospital presentation and outcome in acetaminophen poisoning. This retrospective cohort study included patients who attended the emergency department and were admitted within 24 hr of acetaminophen ingestion. The study was conducted over a period of 5 years from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2008. Parametric and non‐parametric tests were used to test differences between groups depending on the normality of the data. SPSS 15 was used for data analysis. Data from 291 patients were included. Vomiting was present in 65.3% of patients with acetaminophen poisoning at the time of first presentation. Multiple logistic regression showed that significant risk factors for vomiting were present among patients who reported an ingested dose of acetaminophen ≥10 g (p < 0.001) and a latency time of more than 8 hr (p = 0.030). Overall, an increasing trend in prothrombin time (p = 0.03), serum bilirubin (p < 0.001), serum creatinine (p = 0.005), serum potassium (p < 0.001), length of hospital stay (p < 0.001) and the prevalence of patients who had a serum acetaminophen level above a ‘possible toxicity’ treatment line (p = 0.001) were associated with an increased number of episodes of vomiting. In conclusion, vomiting was common among patients with acetaminophen poisoning. This study suggests that an increase in episodes of vomiting at first presentation appears to be an important risk marker of subsequent nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity.
Effect of procedure light on the physiological responses of preterm infants
Authors: OZAWA Mio , SASAKI Minako , KANDA Katsuya
Published: April 2010

Aim:  Current recommendations for illumination in the NICU state that procedure light should be controlled with a rheostat to protect infants from high illumination. However, overhead fluorescent lights without a dimmer switch are still used in Japan. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of three different procedure lighting conditions (fluorescent with on/off switch rapidly increasing the level of light [FRL], incandescent with on/off switch rapidly increasing the level of light [IRL], and incandescent with dimmer switch slowly increasing the level of light [ISL]) on the respiratory rate (RR) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) in preterm infants with or without oxygen therapy.

Methods:  Eight preterm infants, with a gestational age of 29–31 weeks, were included in a repeated randomized cross‐over study. ANCOVAs, based on general linear mixed models, were used to examine physiological changes over time and across lighting conditions. In addition, the minimum SpO2 values, after increasing the level of light, were classified into SpO2 ≤ 85%, SpO2 = 86–91%, and SpO2 ≥ 92% for each lighting condition.

Results:  With and without oxygen therapy, the RR and SpO2 under the ISL were higher than under the FRL and IRL. SpO2 ≤ 85% was only observed under the FRL and SpO2 = 86–91% was observed under the FRL and IRL.

Conclusions:  These data suggest that differences in the light conditions influence physiological responses in preterm infants and slowly increasing the level of light might make it easier for them to slowly adapt to high illumination and prevent declining SpO2 values in neonates.