bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac arrest associated with reperfusion of the liver during transplantation: incidence and proposal for a management algorithm
Authors: Aufhauser David D. , Rose Tom , Levine Matthew , Barnett Rebecca , Ochroch E. Andrew , Aukburg Stanley , Greenblatt Eric , Olthoff Kim , Shaked Abraham , Abt Peter
Published: December 2012

Cardiac arrest associated with reperfusion of the liver allograft in a euvolemic patient is a rare but potentially devastating event. There are few case series describing experience with this complication and no published management protocols guiding treatment. This article is a retrospective case series of patients experiencing post‐reperfusion intraoperative cardiac arrest between 1997 and 2011. Among 1581 liver transplants, 16 (1%) patients experienced post‐reperfusion cardiac arrest. Among patients with intraoperative arrests, 14 (88%) patients required open cardiac massage. Seven (44%) were placed on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) when cardiac activity failed to adequately recover. Placement on CPB reversed cardiac pump failure and established a perfusing rhythm in six of seven (86%) recipients, leading to one of seven (14%) intraoperative mortality. Recovery of myocardial function was associated with low early survival with only 3/7 (43%) patients who underwent CPB surviving until discharge. Among all patients who survived the perioperative period, one‐yr survival was 70% (N = 7), and five‐yr survival was 50% (N = 5). Cardiac arrest during liver transplantation is associated with a poor prognosis during the perioperative period. In patients who do not recover cardiac activity after standard resuscitative measures, progression to physiologic support with systemic anticoagulation and CPB may allow correction of electrolyte derangements, maintenance of cerebral perfusion, and myocardial recovery.
Skin care practice in German nursing homes: a German‐wide cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kottner Jan , Rahn Yasmin , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike , Lahmann Nils
Published: December 2012

Background:

Due to anatomical and physiological changes in the course of aging and due to increased vulnerability, there are special skin care needs in elderly and care‐dependent persons. Little is known about skin care practice in German long‐term care facilities. The aim of the study was to gather epidemiological data about skin care practice in German nursing homes.

Methods and sample:

In spring 2012 a German‐wide cross sectional study was conducted in 47 nursing homes. Based on standardized data collection sheets. demographics and variables about methods and frequencies of skin cleansing and application of skin care products for 3 552 nursing home residents were collected and analyzed. The variables age, gender and level of care dependency was representative for the group of all German nursing home residents.

Results:

More than 90% of investigated nursing home residents required skin care assistance. Washing body parts or the whole body were conducted most frequently (89.1%, 95% CI 88.0– 90.1). Skin care leave‐on products were used in 91.7% (95% CI 90.7–92.6), whereas there were large variations between individuals. In total, more than 100 brands were used.

Conclusions:

Skin care practice in multimorbid care dependent persons shows large variations. How skin care products meet the special requirements of aged skin and whether they enhance the skin barrier function and prevent cuteneous skin damage is unknown.
Usefulness of a continuous suction mouthpiece during percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: A single‐center, prospective, randomized study
Authors: Maekita Takao , Kato Jun , Nakatani Yukihiko , Enomoto Shotaro , Kayama Takashi , Tsuji Masahiro , Nakaya Tsuyoshi , Muraki Yosuke , Deguchi Hisanobu , Ueda Kazuki , Inoue Izumi , Iguchi Mikitaka , Tamai Hideyuki , Ichinose Masao
Published: December 2012

Background

No mouthpiece has been designed to control salivary flow during endoscopic procedures. A new continuous suction mouthpiece (CSM) was developed, and its usefulness for percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) was evaluated.

Patients and Methods

Seventy‐two patients who were scheduled to undergo PEG or the exchange of a gastrostomy button or tube were assigned to one of two groups: the group using the CSM and the group using the conventional mouthpiece. Aspiration pneumonia, procedure duration, extent of salivary flow, frequency of saliva suction, and number of choking episodes during the procedures were evaluated and compared between the two groups.

Results

The same number of patients was randomly allocated to each group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in sex, age, procedure type, duration of procedure,depth of sedation, and indication for the procedure. The grade of salivary flow was significantly lower in patients with the CSM than in patients with the conventional mouthpiece (P < 0.001). Significantly fewer suctions and choking episodes were observed in patients with the CSM than in patients with the conventional mouthpiece (P = 0.013, and P = 0.015, respectively). Aspiration pneumonia and other significant adverse events were not observed in either group.

Conclusions

CSM reduced the number of episodes associated with salivary flow in PEG‐related procedures. The device is expected to reduce complications such as aspiration not only in PEG but in other upper endoscopic procedures.
Water intubation method can reduce patients' pain and sedation rate in colonoscopy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Siheng , Zhu Wei , Xiao Kun , Su Peizhu , Liu Yangyang , Chen Pingyan , Bai Yang
Published: December 2012

Several randomized controlled trials (RCT) have shown that water infusion in lieu of air insufflation reduces sedation rate and pain score and increases cecal intubation rate in colonoscopy. The aim of the present study was to confirm the beneficial effects of the water intubation method over the air method. Electronic databases were searched to identify RCT reporting colonoscopy detection using the water method. The pooled data of sedation rate, pain score and other procedure‐related outcomes were analyzed. Then, 15 full‐text articles were selected and assessed. Nine trials with high‐quality scores were enrolled into this meta‐analysis including a total of 1414 participants. Pooled odds ratio (OR) of sedation rate was 0.392 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.288–0.533, P = 0.000). Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) of pain score was −1.543 (95% CI: −2.107–−1.069,P = 0.000). Pooled OR of cecal intubation rate was 1.90 (95% CI: 1.29–2.82, P = 0.001). Pooled OR of polyp detection rate and adenoma detection rate were 0.805 (95% CI: 0.606–1.069, P = 0.134) and 0.913 (95% CI: 0.681–1.223, P = 0.168), respectively. Pooled WMD of cecal intubation time was 0.701 (95% CI: −0.486–1.889, P = 0.247). This meta‐analysis confirmed that the water method significantly reduced sedation rate and degree of pain without decreasing cecal intubation rate and disease detection rate and without requiring more cecal intubation time, suggesting that the novel water method is better than the conventional air method in colonoscopy detection.
Plexiform schwannoma of the rectum
Authors: Kawaguchi Shinya , Yamamoto Rei , Yamamura Mitsuhiro , Oyamada Jun , Sato Hyoe , Fuke Hirofumi , Yabana Tadashi
Published: December 2012

Plexiform schwannoma is a benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor composed exclusively of Schwann cells arranged in a plexiform pattern. Most plexiform schwannomas are skin tumors and visceral localization is very rare. To our knowledge, there are six cases localized in visceral organs. We describe herein the first known case of plexiform schwannoma of the rectum resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). A 77‐year‐old woman presented with a short history of anal pain. Sigmoidoscopy demonstrated a submucosal tumor, 20 mm in diameter, of the rectum below the peritoneal reflection (Rb). We resected the tumorby ESD. The tumor consisted of multiple white nodules in the submucosal layer. Microscopic examination revealed that the tumor was composed mainly of Antoni A tissue, compatible with conventional schwannoma. Immunohistochemically, the tumor was positive for S‐100, and negative for α‐smooth muscle actin, c‐kit and CD‐34. No evidence of recurrence has been found in 2 years of follow up.
Thymosin β4 protects C57BL/6 mice from bleomycin‐induced damage in the lung
Authors: Conte Enrico , Genovese Tiziana , Gili Elisa , Esposito Emanuela , Iemmolo Maria , Fruciano Mary , Fagone Evelina , Pistorio Maria P. , Crimi Nunzio , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Vancheri Carlo
Published: December 2012

Background

Thymosin β4 (Tβ4) was recently found at high concentration in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of scleroderma patients with lung involvement. It has been hypothesized that Tβ4 may exert a cyto‐protective effect during lung injury because lower Tβ4 levels were associated with interstitial lung disease progression. Moreover, Tβ4 treatment prevented profibrotic gene expression in cardiac cells in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and methods

In this study, we explored a putative Tβ4 protective role in lung damage by utilizing a well‐known in vivo model of lung fibrosis. C57BL/6 mice were treated with bleomycin (BLEO, 1 mg/kg) in the absence or presence of Tβ4 (6 mg/kg delivered intraperitoneally on the day of BLEO treatment and for two additional doses). After sacrifice 1 week later, measurement of fluid and collagen content in the lung, BALF analysis, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity assay, lung histology and IHC were performed.

Results

Compared with BLEO‐treated mice, BLEO‐treated mice who received Tβ4 did not lose as much weight and had a higher survival rate. Moreover, BLEO‐induced inflammation and lung damage were substantially reduced by Tβ4 treatment, as demonstrated by the significant reduction in oedema, total collagen content, lung infiltration by leucocytes, MPO activity in lung homogenates, and histological evidence of the ongoing lung fibrosis. Results of IHC show a strong reactivity for Tβ4 in the lung tissue of Tβ4‐treated mice.

Conclusions

This is the first report that shows a Tβ4 protective role in lung toxicity associated with BLEO in a mouse model. Future studies are needed to assess its putative antifibrotic properties.
Coexistence, niches and biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning
Authors: Turnbull Lindsay Ann , Levine Jonathan M. , Loreau Michel , Hector Andy
Published: December 2012

General principles from coexistence theory are often invoked to explain how and why mixtures of species outperform monocultures. However, the complementarity and selection effects commonly measured in biodiversity experiments do not precisely quantify the niche and relative fitness differences that govern species coexistence. Given this lack of direct correspondence, how can we know whether species‐rich mixtures are stable and that the benefits of diversity will therefore persist? We develop a resource‐based included‐niche model in which plant species have asymmetric access to a nested set of belowground resource pools. We use the model to show that positive complementarity effects arise from stabilising niche differences, but do not necessarily lead to stable coexistence and hence can be transient. In addition, these transient complementarity effects occur in the model when there is no complementary resource use among species. Including a trade‐off between uptake rates and the size of the resource pool stabilised interactions and led to persistent complementarity coupled with weak or negative selection effects, consistent with results from the longest‐running field biodiversity experiments. We suggest that future progress requires a greater mechanistic understanding of the links between ecosystem functions and their underlying biological processes.
Recording fox baiting effort across the landscape using geographic information systems: Facilitating more effective management
Authors: Towerton Alison L. , Kavanagh Rodney P. , Penman Trent D. , Dickman Christopher R.
Published: December 2012

Predation on native vertebrates and livestock by the European Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) remains a significant problem in many parts of Australia. Coordinated approaches to fox control are most effective in protecting these assets and involve placement of baits across the landscape by private and public land managers. However, participation in such programmes varies seasonally and the spatial coverage of baiting is often difficult to determine. Here, we describe a geographic information systems‐based system that assists land managers to collect and use spatial information, minimizing gaps in bait coverage and maximizing bait encounters by foxes to increase the effectiveness of pest control. The coordination of data collection and reporting between land managers should facilitate more effective adaptive management by allowing better strategic planning and increasing landholder involvement, which should, in turn, improve the programme's efficacy, provided other critical conditions and resources are met.
Intact rough‐ and smooth‐form lipopolysaccharides from Escherichia coli separated by preparative gel electrophoresis exhibit differential biologic activity in human macrophages
Authors: Pupo Elder , Lindner Buko , Brade Helmut , Schromm Andra B.
Published: December 2012

We established a new preparative separation procedure, based on DOC/PAGE, to isolate intact lipopolysaccharide (LPS) fractions from natural LPS preparations of Escherichia coli. Analysis of the chemical integrity of LPS fractions by MS showed that no significant chemical modifications were introduced by the procedure. Contamination with toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2)‐reactive cell‐wall components present in the natural LPS mixture was effectively removed by the procedure, as determined by the absence of reactivity of the purified fractions in a HEK293‐TLR2 cell line. Biologic analysis of LPS fractions derived from E. coli O111 in human macrophages demonstrated that the rough (R), semirough (SR) and smooth (S) LPS fractions were highly active at inducing tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) in the presence of human serum; however, on a weight basis the R‐LPS and SR‐LPS fractions were more active, by a factor of 10–100, than was the S‐LPS fraction. Under serum‐free conditions, the natural LPS mixture, as well as the R‐LPS and SR‐LPS fractions, showed dose‐dependent activation of macrophages, although the response was attenuated by about 10‐ to 100‐fold. In contrast, the S‐LPS fraction failed to induce TNF‐α. Remarkably, the dose–response of the natural LPS mixture resembled that of the R‐LPS and SR‐LPS fractions, supporting that short‐chain (R and SR) forms of LPS dominate the innate immune response of human macrophages to LPS in vitro. Biologic activity to the S‐LPS fraction under serum‐free conditions could be restored by the addition of recombinant lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP). In contrast, soluble cluster of differentiation antigen 14 was not able to confer activity of the S‐LPS fraction, indicating a crucial role of LBP in the recognition of S‐LPS by human macrophages.
Relative roles of dispersal dynamics and competition in determining the isotopic niche breadth of a wetland fish
Authors: ABBEY‐LEE ROBIN N. , GAISER EVELYN E. , TREXLER JOEL C.
Published: December 2012

1. The niche variation hypothesis predicts that among‐individual variation in niche use will increase in the presence of intraspecific competition and decrease in the presence of interspecific competition. We sought to determine whether the local isotopic niche breadth of fish inhabiting a wetland was best explained by competition for resources and the niche variation hypothesis, by dispersal of individuals from locations with different prey resources or by a combination of the two. We analysed stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen as indices of feeding niche and compared metrics of within‐site spread to characterise site‐level isotopic niche breadth. We then evaluated the explanatory power of competing models of the direct and indirect effects of several environmental variables spanning gradients of disturbance, competition strength and food availability on among‐individual variation of the eastern mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki).

2. The Dispersal model posits that only the direct effect of disturbance (i.e. changes in water level known to induce fish movement) influences among‐individual variation in isotopic niche. The Partitioning model allows for only direct effects of local food availability on among‐individual variation. The Combined model allows for both hypotheses by including the direct effects of disturbance and food availability.

3. A linear regression of the Combined model described more variance than models limited to the variables of either the Dispersal or Partitioning models. Of the independent variables considered, the food availability variable (per cent edible periphyton) explained the most variation in isotopic niche breadth, followed closely by the disturbance variable (days since last drying event).

4. Structural equation modelling provided further evidence that the Combined model was best supported by the data, with the Partitioning and the Dispersal models only modestly less informative. Again, the per cent edible periphyton was the variable with the largest direct effect on niche variability, with other food availability variables and the disturbance variable only slightly less important. Indirect effects of heterospecific and conspecific competitor densities were also important, through their effects on prey density.

5. Our results support the Combined hypotheses, although partitioning mechanisms appear to explain the most diet variation among individuals in the eastern mosquitofish. The results also support some predictions of the niche variation hypothesis, although both conspecific and interspecific competition appeared to increase isotopic niche breadth in contrast to predictions that interspecific competition would decrease it. We think this resulted from high diet overlap of co‐occurring species, most of which consume similar macroinvertebrates.
Impaired cognitive function and reduced anxiety‐related behavior in a promyelocytic leukemia (PML) tumor suppressor protein‐deficient mouse
Authors: Butler K. , Martinez L. A. , Tejada‐Simon M. V.
Published: December 2012

The promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein is a tumor suppressor factor mostly known by its involvement in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Interestingly, recent studies have provided evidence that, in the central nervous system, PML is involved in neurogenesis. However, prospective studies of PML in brain are lacking. To further understand the role of PML in the mammalian brain, we studied plasticity and behavioral changes in PML knockout mice. If PML is involved in neurogenesis, and neurogenesis is an important process for proper brain development as well as learning and memory functions, we hypothesized that PML might have a role in plasticity and cognition. Behavioral studies demonstrated that PML knockout mice present abnormalities in conditioned learning and spatial memory, as determined by fear conditioning and Morris water maze tasks. Experiments to determine normal exploratory behavior interestingly revealed that PML knockout mice present reduced anxiety‐related responses as compared to control animals. This was confirmed when PML knockout mice spent more time in the open arms of an elevated plus‐maze, which is an indication of decreased anxiety. Additionally, impairments in hippocampus‐dependent learning were mirrored by altered long‐term plasticity at Schaffer collateral‐CA1 synapses. We now provide the first evidence for an important role of PML in the brain, indicating that PML might have a role in synaptic plasticity and associated behavioral processes.
Ecological traits and environmental affinity explain Red Sea fish introduction into the Mediterranean
Authors: Belmaker Jonathan , Parravicini Valeriano , Kulbicki Michel
Published: December 2012

Alien species are considered one of the prime threats to biodiversity, driving major changes in ecosystem structure and function. Identifying the traits associated with alien introduction has been largely restricted to comparing indigenous and alien species or comparing alien species that differ in abundance or impact. However, a more complete understanding may emerge when the entire pool of potential alien species is used as a control, information that is rarely available. In the eastern Mediterranean, the marine environment is undergoing an unparalleled species composition transformation, as a flood of aliens have entered from the Red Sea following the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869. In this study, we compile data on species traits, geographical distribution, and environmental affinity of the entire pool of reef‐associated fish species in the Red Sea and more generally across the Indo‐Pacific. We use this extensive data to identify the prime characteristics separating Red Sea species that have become alien in the Mediterranean from those that have not. We find that alien species occupy a larger range of environments in their native ranges, explaining their ability to colonize the seasonal Mediterranean. Red Sea species that naturally experience high maximum temperatures in their native range have a high probability of becoming alien. Thus, contrary to predictions of an accelerating number of aliens following increased water temperatures, hotter summers in this region may prevent the establishment of many alien species. We further find that ecological trait diversity of alien species is substantially more evenly spaced and more divergent than random samples from the pool of Red Sea species, pointing at additional processes, such as competition, promoting ecological diversity among alien species. We use these results to provide a first quantitative ranking of the potential of Red Sea species to become established in the eastern Mediterranean.
Activity‐based kinase profiling of approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Kitagawa Daisuke , Yokota Koichi , Gouda Masaki , Narumi Yugo , Ohmoto Hiroshi , Nishiwaki Eiji , Akita Kensaku , Kirii Yasuyuki
Published: December 2012

The specificities of nine approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors (imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib, gefitinib, erlotinib, lapatinib, sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib) were determined by activity‐based kinase profiling using a large panel of human recombinant active kinases. This panel consisted of 79 tyrosine kinases, 199 serine/threonine kinases, three lipid kinases, and 29 disease‐relevant mutant kinases. Many potential targets of each inhibitor were identified by kinase profiling at the Km for ATP. In addition, profiling at a physiological ATP concentration (1 mm) was carried out, and the IC50 values of the inhibitors against each kinase were compared with the estimated plasma‐free concentration (calculated from published pharmacokinetic parameters of plasma Ctrough and Cmax values). This analysis revealed that the approved kinase inhibitors were well optimized for their target kinases. This profiling also implicates activity at particular off‐target kinases in drug side effects. Thus, large‐scale kinase profiling at both Km and physiological ATP concentrations could be useful in characterizing the targets and off‐targets of kinase inhibitors.
Effects on caregiver burden of education related to home care in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Mollaoğlu Mukadder , Kayataş Mansur , Yürügen Birsen
Published: December 2012

Caring for a patient undergoing hemodialysis is highly stressful and can negatively affect a caregiver's physical and psychological well‐being. This study was conducted to examine the effect of educational support concerning caregiver burden and given to the caregivers of hemodialysis patients. This experimental study was performed with 122 caregivers. Patients' data were collected by means of Personal Information Form and Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale (ZCBS). Characteristics of caregivers of hemodialysis patients were analyzed descriptively in terms of frequencies and percentages for categorical data, means, and standard deviations. Mann‐Whitney U test, Kruskall‐Wallis test, and percentages were used in the data analysis. The mean ZCBS score was 52.1 ± 8.6 (range, 0–88). Among the caregivers, the mean score of the ZCBS was significantly higher in women, single, young, family relatives as “daughter/sister/brother/daughter‐in‐law and town/district, high educational level (P < 0.05). Moreover, the mean score of the ZCBS was significantly higher in caregivers who have health problems/diseases. In addition, this study explored the educational needs of home‐based such as nutrition (35.2%), dialysis (27.8%), fistula care (20.4%), catheter care (18.8%), the information about chronic kidney disease (18.0%), blood pressure (17.2%), weight control (17.2%), hygiene (3.1%), and travel/exercise (6.5%). The post‐educational mean scores (55.0 ± 7.6) of caregiver burden were observed to be lower than the pre‐educational scores (43.9 ± 5.2), and the difference was found to be statistically significant. The home‐based educational program demonstrated a decrease in the burden of hemodialysis caregivers.
Modelling changes in anthocyanins, total vitamin C and colour as a consequence of peracetic acid washing disinfection of two cultivars of strawberries for fresh‐cut processing
Authors: Van de Velde Franco , Piagentini Andrea M. , Güemes Daniel R. , Pirovani María E.
Published: December 2012

The aim of the study was to quantify and model the retention of total anthocyanins (TAR), ascorbic acid (AAR) and total vitamin C (Vit C), and the colour changes of fresh‐cut strawberries after washing disinfection with peracetic acid (PAA) at different concentrations (0–100 mg L−1), times (10–120 s) and temperatures (4–40 °C). Two strawberry cultivars (Camarosa and Selva) were used. TAR (%) and AAR (%) were principally affected by PAA concentration and processing time in both cultivars. There was an approximately 90% Vit C retention at any condition in the experimental domain for Camarosa cultivar. However, in the case of Selva cultivar, total vitamin C retention and colour changes were affected by the processing variables.
Nutritional composition and sensory attributes of Alaskan flatfishes compared to plaice (Pleuronectes platessa)
Authors: Karl Horst , Manthey‐Karl Monika , Ostermeyer Ute , Lehmann Ines , Wagner Hubertus
Published: December 2012

Proximate composition, fatty acids profiles and other nutritional values were evaluated for fillets of Limanda aspera (yellowfin sole), Lepidopsetta bilineata (southern rock sole) and Lepidopsetta polyxystra (northern rock sole) and compared to North Sea plaice (Pleuronectes platessa). Additional information is given on the composition of fillets from arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias). Plaice (0.8% lipid) and Alaska soles (1.0–1.2% lipid) can be classified as lean species, resulting in low 0.3–0.5 g ∑EPA+DHA/100 g muscle, although the fatty acid profiles of the extracted lipids were characterised by high amount of n‐3 fatty acids (33.2–47.3%). Arrowtooth flounder belong to the medium‐fat species (4.3%). Taurine was the most prevalent free amino acid; mean values ranging between 221 mg100 g−1 and 247 mg100 g−1 wet weight. The selenium content varied between 130 and 310 μg kg−1 ww. Sensory attributes of Southern and Northern rock sole were comparable to plaice.
Effects of hydrocolloids on chemical properties and cooking quality of gluten‐free spaghetti
Authors: Padalino Lucia , Mastromatteo Marcella , De Vita Pasquale , Maria Ficco Donatella Bianca , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro
Published: December 2012

The effects of different hydrocolloids on chemical composition and cooking quality of spaghetti based on maize and oat flours were investigated. Rheological and texture properties of the gluten‐free dough were also assessed. Amount of 2% of gellan gum, carboxymethylcellulose, pectin, agar, egg protein powder, tapioca starch, guar seed flour and chitosan were separately added to the formulation. The samples enriched with hydrocolloids generally showed a different rheological behaviour compared with the control samples. As regards chemical composition, spaghetti with chitosan showed a value of insoluble dietary fibres (8.0%) higher than the control ones (3.9%). Moreover, results highlighted that most hydrocolloids improved cooking quality and texture properties of spaghetti (adhesiveness, cooking loss, hardness), thus supporting their application in gluten‐free pasta.
Antioxidant and anti‐hypertensive activity of anthocyanin‐rich extracts from hulless pigmented barley cultivars
Authors: Lee Changho , Han Daeseok , Kim Byoungmok , Baek Namin , Baik Byung‐Kee
Published: December 2012

Anthocyanin‐rich acetone extracts of barley grain of four hulless pigmented genotypes were investigated to determine their potential as functional food ingredients. The purple barley cultivar contained 11 anthocyanins, whereas only one anthocyanin, peonidin derivative, was observed in blue, black and yellow barley. The total anthocyanin content of pigmented barley genotypes ranged from 3.2 to 678.5 mg kg−1 in whole grain and from 4.5 to 1654.6 mg kg−1 in bran. The purple barley bran extract gave the highest DPPH radical scavenging capacity, superoxide radical scavenging capacity and total antioxidant activity. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) of anthocyanin‐rich extract of purple barley grain and bran was 8.77 and 4.54 mg mL−1, respectively. Purple barley appears to have great potential uses for the promotion of human health and development of nutraceuticals and functional foods.
Quality response of table grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) during cold storage to postharvest cap stem excision and hot water treatments
Authors: Sabir Ferhan K. , Sabir Ali
Published: December 2012

Berry quality, total phenol, sensory characteristics and decay incidence of grapes (V. vinifera cvs. Müşküle and Red Globe) as affected by prestorage hot water immersion with or without cap stem excision treatments were investigated with 7‐day interval during storage at 1 °C for 21 days. Weight loss occurred mainly up to the second week and was more pronounced for the untreated control samples subjected to the stem excision. In Müşküle, the least weight loss value was obtained from hot water–treated grapes (0.62%), while the highest loss occurred in control grapes of stem‐excised berries (0.96%). Immersion of stem‐retained grapes in hot water was the best applications for maintenance of overall storage quality for both cultivars. According to panellist scores, it is evident that hot water has positive effect on maintaining the minimally processed table grapes without altering the flavour and taste of the commodity. Stem‐retained berries of hot water treatment had the highest score for both Müşküle and Red Globe, with their values 3.8 and 4.2, respectively, while the least values were obtained from stem‐excised berries of untreated control group of both the cultivars (1.9 and 3.0, respectively). At the end of three‐week storage, the least decay rates were determined in stem‐retained berries that received hot water treatment (5.3% for Müşküle and 1.1% for Red Globe). Attenuate influence of brief high temperature exposure on ripening parameters (SSC, TA, MI, pH) was also observed. Postharvest hot water treatment may be used as a nonchemical means to extent storage life of minimally processed grapes with its alleviating effect on physiological disorders. Cap stem retaining in minimal processing can be recommended to maintain the quality of grapes.
The effect of microbial transglutaminase on the immunoreactive and sensory properties of fermented milk beverages
Authors: Wróblewska Barbara , Kaliszewska‐Suchodoła Anna , Kołakowski Piotr , Troszyńska Agnieszka
Published: December 2012

Fermented beverages were produced through the milk fermentation (at 37 °C and 42 °C) by yoghurt bacteria Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus and simultaneous addition of microbial transglutaminase (m‐TG). The results proved that the addition of m‐TG enzyme and storage at 4 °C for 28 days caused a significant reduction in the immunoreactivity of caseins in yoghurt produced at 37 °C and did not decreased their sensory quality. The reaction between yoghurt proteins and antibodies towards α‐lactalbumin (α‐la) and β‐lactoglobulin (β‐lg) was not observed. The results of yoghurt produced at 42 °C were different, and the reduction of κ‐casein only and the lack of β‐lg immunoreactivity was noticed. Statistically significant attributes, which differentiated the sensory profiles of yoghurts, were descriptors of taste (yoghurty, creamy) and mouth‐feel (density, creaminess and smoothness). The quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) results were confirmed by principal component analysis (PCA). Two components (PC1, PC2) explain 90.68% of the variation of the sensory qualities of the yoghurts.
French Fries oleuropein content during the successive deep frying in oils enriched with an olive leaf extract
Authors: Chiou Antonia , Kalogeropoulos Nick , Efstathiou Panayiota , Papoutsi Meropi , Andrikopoulos Nikolaos K.
Published: December 2012

Olive oil, sunflower oil and soybean oil were enriched with an olive (Olea Europaea) leaf extract rich in oleuropein at a supplementation level of 100 mg total phenolics per kg oil. Supplemented oils were used for deep frying of potatoes for eight successive frying sessions without replenishment under domestic frying conditions. Supplemented oils contained oleuropein while deep frying resulted in a gradual decrease in oils oleuropein content. After the eighth successive frying, oleuropein was still detected in oils, its retention being 3.2–12.4%. Deep frying of potatoes in supplemented oils succeeded in preparing French fries containing oleuropein even after eight successive fryings. Contrary to the oil type, the number of frying sessions affected potatoes oleuropein content. Oleuropein intake by consuming French fries deep‐fried in enriched oils was approximately ten times higher in potatoes prepared in the first frying session as compared to the respective intake after the eighth frying.
Antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities of a novel chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate
Authors: Woo Ji‐Young , Je Jae‐Young
Published: December 2012

A novel chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate was developed by conjugating phloroglucinol onto a chitosan backbone. The chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate was characterised by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and the NMR spectra confirmed the conjugation. Antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities of the chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate were investigated. The chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate showed strong 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide and ABTS+ radical scavenging activities as well as reducing power compared with those of the unmodified chitosan (P < 0.05). The formation of malondiadehyde (MDA) as an indicator of lipid peroxidation in a linoleic acid emulsion was 30.56 μM in the absence of the chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate after 4 days incubation, whereas MDA was 4.14 μM in the presence of the chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate (P < 0.05). The activity was higher than that of ascorbic acid, which is currently used as a food preservative. Moreover, the chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate inhibited 56.30% tyrosinase activity, which is responsible for browning of foods, and acted as non‐competitive inhibitor. Taken together, the chitosan–phloroglucinol conjugate may have potential for application in functional foods and/or as a food preservative.
Performance evaluation of the Abbott CELL‐DYN Emerald for use as a bench‐top analyzer in a research setting
Authors: Khoo T.‐L. , Xiros N. , Guan F. , Orellana D. , Holst J. , Joshua D. E. , Rasko J. E. J.
Published: December 2012

Introduction

The CELL‐DYN Emerald is a compact bench‐top hematology analyzer that can be used for a three‐part white cell differential analysis. To determine its utility for analysis of human and mouse samples, we evaluated this machine against the larger CELL‐DYN Sapphire and Sysmex XT2000iV hematology analyzers.

Methods

120 human (normal and abnormal) and 30 mouse (normal and abnormal) samples were analyzed on both the CELL‐DYN Emerald and CELL‐DYN Sapphire or Sysmex XT2000iV analyzers. For mouse samples, the CELL‐DYN Emerald analyzer required manual recalibration based on the histogram populations.

Results

Analysis of the CELL‐DYN Emerald showed excellent precision, within accepted ranges (white cell count CV% = 2.09%; hemoglobin CV% = 1.68%; platelets CV% = 4.13%). Linearity was excellent (R2 ≥ 0.99), carryover was minimal (<1%), and overall interinstrument agreement was acceptable for both human and mouse samples. Comparison between the CELL‐DYN Emerald and Sapphire analyzers for human samples or Sysmex XT2000iV analyzer for mouse samples showed excellent correlation for all parameters.

Conclusion

The CELL‐DYN Emerald was generally comparable to the larger reference analyzer for both human and mouse samples. It would be suitable for use in satellite research laboratories or as a backup system in larger laboratories.
Pertinence of the Sysmex XE‐5000™ parameters: rule of slide review in a context of ‘normal’ lymphocyte count (defined from control and mantle cell lymphoma blood specimens)
Authors: Chhuy J. , Morel D. , Goeddert G. , Magaud J.‐P. , Felman P. , Baseggio L.
Published: December 2012

Introduction

As most hematology cell analyzers, the different parameters of Sysmex XE‐5000™ are little informative in the qualitative analysis of lymphoid cells, and especially when the lymphocyte count is below 4 × 109/L (i.e., ‘normal’). The aim of our study was to investigate whether some parameters and/or ‘flags’ not routinely provided by this analyzer, but reachable by operator could be reliable to define rules of slide review in absence of common qualitative and quantitative alarms particularly in case of ‘normal’ lymphocyte count.

Methods

Blood samples from 13 mantle cell lymphoma fully annotated cases, and 180 control specimens were studied with Sysmex XE‐5000™ analyzer. All cases did not present any anomalies in common quantitative and structural parameters.

Results

Using the method of area under the curve and ROC curve analysis, we described a novel threshold of alarm VAL_ABN LYMPH (≥40 instead of 100 defined by Sysmex), as well as a pertinent LyX threshold (≥89). The combination of these thresholds allowed defining a rule of slide review in context of ‘normal’ lymphocyte count.

Conclusion

Among the parameters provided by the Sysmex XE‐5000™ analyzer, the combination of the alarm VAL_ABN LYMPH and the LyX value, routinely available on a simple blood analysis appears particularly informative to trigger slide review in a context of ‘normal’ lymphocyte count with a good sensitivity (85%) to detect circulating lymphoma cells and with <1% of false positive results.
The vulnerable do‐gooders: security strategies of German aid agencies
Authors: Schneiker Andrea
Published: December 2012

Humanitarian and development agencies have confronted growing insecurity in some of the regions in which they work over the course of the past decade. Consequently, aid agencies are changing their approach to security issues. Compared to aid agencies from other countries, especially the United Kingdom and the United States, German aid agencies have been relatively slow to adopt security measures. In addition, the security measures they have selected differ from one agency to another, even in comparable security contexts. The literature on organisational learning helps to explain these differences. The findings show that external and internal organisational factors influence an aid agency's choice of a particular security measure. The different responses of German aid agencies to the changing security environment demonstrate that security measures are not only influenced by an organisation's identity but also can be a way for them to demonstrate their identity and thereby distinguish themselves from other actors that deliver aid.
In acceptance we trust? Conceptualising acceptance as a viable approach to NGO security management
Authors: Fast Larissa A. , Freeman C. Faith , O'Neill Michael , Rowley Elizabeth
Published: December 2012

This paper documents current understanding of acceptance as a security management approach and explores issues and challenges non‐governmental organisations (NGOs) confront when implementing an acceptance approach to security management. It argues that the failure of organisations to systematise and clearly articulate acceptance as a distinct security management approach and a lack of organisational policies and procedures concerning acceptance hinder its efficacy as a security management approach. The paper identifies key and cross‐cutting components of acceptance that are critical to its effective implementation in order to advance a comprehensive and systematic concept of acceptance. The key components of acceptance illustrate how organisational and staff functions affect positively or negatively an organisation's acceptance, and include: an organisation's principles and mission, communications, negotiation, programming, relationships and networks, stakeholder and context analysis, staffing, and image. The paper contends that acceptance is linked not only to good programming, but also to overall organisational management and structures.
Transaction‐Based Intelligent Transportation System (TBITS) Using Stochastic User Utility Model
Authors: Olusina Joseph O. , Olaleye James B.
Published: December 2012

The problem of transportation management has many variables but its solution must be guided by societal needs based on expected benefits and ways of achieving them. Thus transport management can be immensely enhanced and simplified by the use of a geospatial information system. Lagos, the commercial center of Nigeria, has been suffering from traffic congestion for decades. The loss suffered as a result of this congestion cannot be easily quantified economically and socially. This article presents empirical solutions to transportation problems in the Lagos Metropolis using the “Bottom–Top” approach, from “Transaction‐Based” at local government level to “Multimodal” at the metropolitan level. The Stochastic User Utility Model was adopted to estimate the appropriate representation of human heterogeneity, flexibility and variability on mode choice relative to route travel times. The use of Assisted GPS Cameras provides some level of intelligence on the transportation routes. Results obtained include a travel demand survey (household‐based) within a Traffic Zone and Sampled Trip Production/Trip Attraction Analysis based on Modes of Transportation. Geospatial Analysis carried out included Proposed Multimodal Transportation Routes with Transfer Points (TPs) and Incident Facility Management analysis. The synergy of Multimodal and Intelligent Transportation System (MITS) to obtain an integrated Multimodal Transaction‐Based Intelligent Transportation System (MTBITS) will enhance efficient transportation systems for the Lagos Metropolis.
Integration of Biological Control and Native Seeding to Restore Invaded Plant Communities
Authors: Cutting Kiri J. , Hough‐Goldstein Judith
Published: December 2012

Disturbed natural areas frequently experience invasion by introduced plant species that can reduce native biodiversity. Biological control can suppress these introduced species, but without restoration another introduced species can invade. Integration of biological control with concurrent revegetation can both aid in weed reduction via interspecific plant competition and establish a restored native plant community. This 3‐year study investigated an integrated approach to controlling the introduced annual Mile‐a‐minute weed (Persicaria perfoliata [L.] H. Gross [Polygonaceae]) using the biocontrol weevil Rhinoncomimus latipes Korotyaev (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and restoration planting using a native seed mix. A fully factorial design tested weevils and seeding, separately and together, using insecticide to eliminate weevils. The weevils together with the native seed mix reduced P. perfoliata percent cover in 2009 and 2010, and peak seed cluster production in 2010, compared to the insecticide − no seed control treatment. Persicaria perfoliata final dry biomass was reduced by 75% in 2010 and by 57% in 2011 in the weevils plus seed treatment compared to the control, with weevils having the greatest effect in 2010 and the seed treatment having the greatest impact in 2011. Results suggest an additive effect of biocontrol and seeding in suppressing P. perfoliata. Seeded treatments also developed the highest native plant species richness and diversity, comprised of spontaneous recolonization in addition to species from the seed mix. Results support the use of integrated management of this invasive weed, with suppression through biological control and native revegetation together helping prevent reinvasion while restoring native plant biodiversity.
The HAMP NPV Model: Development and Early Performance
Authors: Holden Steve , Kelly Austin , McManus Douglas , Scharlemann Therese , Singer Ryan , Worth John D.
Published: December 2012

The foreclosure crisis that began in 2008 triggered the need for new approaches to treat distressed mortgages. A key component of the Obama Administration's Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) was the development of a standardized Net Present Value (NPV) Model to identify troubled loans that were value‐enhancing candidates for payment‐reducing modifications. This article discusses the development of the HAMP NPV Model,1 its purpose and some important constraints that dictated its structure and limitations. We describe the structure and the estimation of the model in detail. We also describe the responsiveness of the model to key characteristics, such as loan‐to‐value and credit score, as well as provide new evidence on the relationship between HAMP modification performance and key borrower and modification characteristics. The article concludes with a discussion of model limitations and the future role of systematic loan modification using NPV analysis.
Ex Ante Skewness and Expected Stock Returns
Authors: CONRAD JENNIFER , DITTMAR ROBERT F. , GHYSELS ERIC
Published: December 2012

We use option prices to estimate ex ante higher moments of the underlying individual securities’ risk‐neutral returns distribution. We find that individual securities’ risk‐neutral volatility, skewness, and kurtosis are strongly related to future returns. Specifically, we find a negative (positive) relation between ex ante volatility (kurtosis) and subsequent returns in the cross‐section, and more ex ante negatively (positively) skewed returns yield subsequent higher (lower) returns. We analyze the extent to which these returns relations represent compensation for risk and find evidence that, even after controlling for differences in co‐moments, individual securities’ skewness matters.
Dynamic Competition, Valuation, and Merger Activity
Authors: SPIEGEL MATTHEW , TOOKES HEATHER
Published: December 2012

We model the interactions between product market competition and investment valuation within a dynamic oligopoly. To our knowledge, the model is the first continuous‐time corporate finance model in a multiple firm setting with heterogeneous products. The model is tractable and amenable to estimation. We use it to relate current industry characteristics with firm value and financial decisions. Unlike most corporate finance models, it produces predictions regarding parameter magnitudes as well their signs. Estimates of the model's parameters indicate strong linkages between model‐implied and actual values. The paper uses the estimated parameters to predict rivals’ returns near merger announcements.