bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information Acquisition and Choice Under Uncertainty
Authors: Brocas Isabelle , Carrillo Juan D.
Published: April 2009

This paper presents a model where individuals have imperfect information and there is an opportunity cost of learning. It shows that the endogenous decision to collect costly information before taking an action has a systematic effect on choices. More precisely, consider two alternatives with ex ante identical expected payoff but different variances. The model predicts that, after the learning process is stopped, a majority of individuals will select the alternative with largest payoff‐variance. The result persists when agents have multiple sources of information. Applications to entrepreneurial investments, composition of advisory committees, and judicial decision‐making are discussed.
Limiting and detecting bacterial contamination of apheresis platelets: inlet‐line diversion and increased culture volume improve component safety
Authors: Eder Anne F. , Kennedy Jean M. , Dy Beth A. , Notari Edward P. , Skeate Robert , Bachowski Gary , Mair David C. , Webb Jonathan S. , Wagner Stephen J. , Dodd Roger Y. , Benjamin Richard J. ,   the American Red Cross Regional Blood Centers
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND: Septic transfusion reactions to apheresis platelets (PLTs) continue to occur despite preventive measures. This study evaluated the effect of two operational changes designed to reduce bacterial risk: 1) introducing inlet‐line sample diversion on two‐arm procedures and 2) increasing the sample volume cultured from 4 to 8 mL from all donations.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Aerobic culture results and septic transfusion reactions reported between December 1, 2006, and July 31, 2008 (Period 2), were compared to March 1, 2004, to May 31, 2006 (Period 1).

RESULTS: During Period 2, a total of 781,936 apheresis PLT collections were cultured, of which 130 donations (1:6015) were confirmed positive and 9 (1:86,882) had negative culture results but were associated with 11 septic reactions. Confirmed‐positive cultures from two‐arm procedures decreased (27.2 to 14.7 per 105 collections; odds ratio [OR], 0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.41‐0.70) in Period 2, owing to a lower rate of skin flora contamination. Detection of contamination of one‐arm collections significantly increased by 54% in Period 2 (13.7 vs. 21.1 per 105 collections; OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.05‐2.27). Fewer septic transfusion reactions occurred in Period 2, but the difference did not reach significance (1.7 vs. 1.2 per 105 donations; OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.30‐1.53).

CONCLUSION: Inlet‐line diversion decreased bacterial contamination during two‐arm collections by more than 46%. Concurrently, doubling the sample volume was associated with a 54% relative increase in culture sensitivity. These interventions act cooperatively to decrease bacterial risk.
Dombrock genotyping in a native Congolese cohort reveals two novel alleles
Authors: Chapel‐Fernandes Sylvie , Callebaut Isabelle , Halverson Gregory R. , Reid Marion E. , Bailly Pascal , Chiaroni Jacques
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND: Since variant alleles in the Dombrock (DO) blood group system are common in Africans, DNA typing of DO alleles in an uninvestigated Congolese Teke ethnic group was performed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: DO exons were polymerase chain reaction amplified, using genomic DNA extracted from blood samples, and sequenced. Membrane expression in K562 cells transduced with DO‐cDNAs using lentiviral vectors was studied by flow cytometry. Amino acid changes were mapped on the protein structure, predicted by homology modeling.

RESULTS: In 41 samples investigated, there were 56 DOB or DOB‐WL (68%), 15 DOA (18%), 6 HY (7%), and 3 JO (4%) alleles. The remaining two alleles were novel, that is, DOB‐SH‐Gln149Lys carrying a 445C>A transversion and DOB‐(WL)‐Ile175Asn showing a 524T>A transversion on a DOB or DOB‐WL background. Transduced K562 cells revealed that DOB‐SH‐Gln149Lys variant was expressed to the same extent as DOB‐SH but to a lesser extent than the DOB control. The DOB‐Ile175Asn variant shows equivalent expression to DOB but is not recognized by monoclonal antibodies MIMA‐53. As deduced from the protein model, these missense changes would lead to structure similar to the wild‐type one, with only modified surface features.

CONCLUSION: Molecular screening of Teke individuals revealed a high frequency of HY and JO alleles and two novel alleles, one on the DOB (or DOB‐WL) and one on the DOB‐SH background. Expression studies highlighted the impact of changes on Do protein expression. These findings suggest that allelic diversity is greater than expected and that expression level of DO alleles should be taken into account in transfusion.
The Effect of Clustering on Office Rents: Evidence from the Amsterdam Market
Authors: Jennen Maarten G.J. , Brounen Dirk
Published: April 2009

This article examines the rent effects of office clustering in the Amsterdam office market for the period 2000–2005. We isolate the rent effects of location density based on geographic information system (GIS) methodology, while controlling for variations in object characteristics in a cross‐sectional hedonic model. While controlling for the age, location and quality of the object, we find a strong positive effect of being located in dense office areas. We find that the vicinity of other office objects is priced into rent levels, regardless of market conditions. This article extends existing literature by examining the influence of clustering outside the United States, during changing economic tides and by application of novel methodology, based on objective clustering schemes, which can be replicated for other geographic areas.
Property Rights and Housing Value: The Impacts of Political Instability
Authors: Tu Yong , Bao Helen X.H.
Published: April 2009

Political instability may weaken investors' belief in property rights, putting the investors in fear that part of the investment may be wasted due to poor protection. As a result, the investors are unwilling to pay a premium for the security of rights when facing political uncertainty. This article attempts to test the above hypothesis using 10‐year freehold and leasehold housing transaction data in Hong Kong and Singapore, where different political scenarios, comparable land lease structures as well as similar property cycles were established during the period. The conceptual model yields testable predictions about our hypotheses, and the empirical results verify the predictions.
Markers aiding the diagnosis of chondroid tumors: an immunohistochemical study including osteonectin, bcl‐2, cox‐2, actin, calponin, D2‐40 (podoplanin), mdm‐2, CD117 (c‐kit), and YKL‐40
Authors: DAUGAARD SØREN , CHRISTENSEN LISE H. , HØGDALL ESTRID
Published: April 2009

Chondroid tumors comprise a heterogenous group of benign to overt malignant neoplasms, which may be difficult to differentiate from one another by histological examination. A group of 43 such tumors was stained with nine relevant antibodies in an attempt to find consistent marker profile(s) for the different subgroups. Archival material from three extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas, five chordomas, five chondromyxoid fibromas, five chondroblastomas and 25 chondrosarcomas was stained with antibodies against osteonectin, bcl‐2, cox‐2, actin, calponin, D2‐40 (podoplanin), mdm‐2, CD117 (c‐kit) and YKL‐40. All 25 chondrosarcomas showed a positive staining reaction for D2‐40, none for actin and CD117, and a partial reactivity for bcl‐2 (36%). Chondroblastomas (5/5) and chondromyxoid fibromas (2/5) were the only tumors with a positive reaction for actin, and all chondroblastomas (n=5) and extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas (n=3) were positive for bcl‐2. In contrast to all other tumors, two of three extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas were also positive for CD17 and negative for osteonectin, cox‐2, mdm‐2 and actin. All five chordomas were negative for D2‐40 and positive for mdm‐2 and YKL‐40. The diagnosis of chondrosarcoma may be aided by its positivity for D2‐40 and YKL‐40 and its lack of reactivity for actin and CD117. This should be seen in the light of no reaction for D2‐40 in chordomas and a corresponding lack of reaction for osteonectin, cox‐2, mdm‐2 and actin in extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcomas. A convincing immunoreactivity for calponin and/or actin in chondromyxoid fibromas and chondroblastomas may also be helpful in differentiating these tumors from chondrosarcomas.
Peri‐Implant Endosseous Healing Properties of Dual Acid‐Etched Mini‐Implants with a Nanometer‐Sized Deposition of CaP: A Histological and Histomorphometric Human Study
Authors: Telleman Gerdien , Albrektsson Tomas , Hoffman Maria , Johansson Carina B. , Vissink Arjan , Meijer Henny J.A. , Raghoebar Gerry M.
Published: April 2009

Purpose: The aim of this histological and histomorphometric study was to compare the early peri‐implant endosseous healing properties of a dual acid‐etched (DAE) surface (Osseotite®, Implant Innovations Inc., Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA) with a DAE surface modified with nanometer‐sized calcium phosphate (CaP) particles (NanoTite™, Implant Innovations Inc.) in grafted and mature maxillary bone.

Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients received two mini‐implants, 1 with DAE surface (control) and 1 with a DAE + CaP surface (test), to fixate an iliac crest bone graft to the maxilla. A part of each mini‐implant was in contact with the grafted bone and a part extended into the native maxillary bone. After a healing period of 3 months, the specimens were harvested and analyzed.

Results: Overall, a trend was seen for stronger bone response around the test mini‐implants in the native bone of the maxilla. However, only the old bone particles measured by percentages of bone‐to‐implant contact and bone area were statistically significant (p = .025 and p = .042, respectively).

Conclusions: The NanoTite surface increases the peri‐implant endosseous healing properties in the native bone of the maxilla compared with the Osseotite surface, while this difference was not visible in the bone graft area. This might be a result of the lower remodeling process of the graft.
Loading Protocols for Mandibular Implant Overdentures: A Systematic Review with Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Alsabeeha Nabeel , Atieh Momen , Payne Alan G.T.
Published: April 2009

Background: Mandibular overdentures are a successful treatment option for the edentulous patients with long‐term predictable outcomes, using conventional loading protocols. Currently, both early and immediate loading protocols for mandibular implant overdentures are prevalent in the literature.

Purpose: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the current published literature on comparative studies using conventional versus either early and/or immediate loading protocols for mandibular implant overdentures.

Materials and Methods: The review was carried out in accordance with the QUOROM (Quality of Reporting of Meta‐Analyses) guidelines. The PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparisons, Outcomes) format was used in conjunction with predefined inclusion criteria. A literature search of PubMed (1969–October 2008), EMBASE (1998–October 2008), the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register was conducted. In addition, hand searching through refereed dental journals was also performed for the years 2000 to 2008. The meta‐analysis was conducted by using the MIX software v.1.7 (Kitasato Clinical Research Center, Kanagawa, Japan).

Results: A total of 191 studies were identified through the electronic search. After full‐text screening and cross‐matching with the predefined inclusion criteria, only 10 studies with a minimum follow‐up of 2 years were eligible for inclusion in this review. Of the 10 included studies, seven have compared the outcome of conventional versus early loading of implants supporting mandibular overdentures. The remaining three studies, on the other hand, compared the outcome of conventional versus immediate loading. The meta‐analysis revealed no significant difference in the outcome between conventional and either early (p = .72) or immediate (p = .08) loading of implants supporting mandibular implant overdentures.

Conclusions: Short‐term outcomes of early or immediate loading protocols for mandibular implant overdentures achieved comparable success to conventional loading ones. No evidence was found of long‐term studies to support or refute either early or immediate loading protocols for mandibular implant overdentures.
One‐Year Outcome of Implants Strategically Placed in the Retrocanine Bone Triangle
Authors: Balleri Piero , Ferrari Marco , Veltri Mario
Published: April 2009

Background: Implant treatment in the partially edentulous maxilla is often challenging because of minimum bone volumes in distal direction.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate, after 1 year of loading, the outcome of three‐unit fixed partial dentures supported by two implants in the retrocanine triangle.

Materials and Methods: Twenty patients with atrophic posterior maxillae participated in the study. A total of 40 implants were placed in residual bone anterior to the sinus wall and posterior to the canine. Implant angulations and lengths were chosen to match as much as possible boundaries of the available bone. After a 6‐month healing period, three‐unit, screw‐retained, fixed partial dentures were delivered. The patients were clinically and radiographically reexamined after 1 year of loading.

Results: All the implants survived at the end of the follow‐up. No differences in bone level changes resulted between axial and tilted implants. No biological or mechanical complications were recorded.

Conclusions: Within the limitations of this short‐term study on relatively few patients, a positive outcome was seen for three‐unit fixed partial dentures supported by two implants. Retrocanine placement of implants with carefully planned lengths and angulations might be an alternative to grafting procedures for restoration of atrophic posterior maxillae.
Effect of Systemic Tetracycline on the Degradation of Tetracycline‐Impregnated Bilayered Collagen Membranes: An Animal Study
Authors: Moses Ofer , Frenkel Tami , Tal Haim , Weinreb Miron , Bornstein Michael M. , Nemcovsky Carlos E.
Published: April 2009

Background: Premature collagen membrane degradation may compromise the outcome of osseous regenerative procedures. Tetracyclines (TTCs) inhibit the catalytic activities of human metalloproteinases. Preprocedural immersion of collagen membranes in TTC and systemic administration of TTC may be possible alternatives to reduce the biodegradation of native collagen membranes.

Aim: To evaluate the in vivo degradation of collagen membranes treated by combined TTC immersion and systemic administration.

Materials and Methods: Seventy‐eight bilayered porcine collagen membrane disks were divided into three groups and were immersed in 0, 50, or 100 mg/mL TTC solution. Three disks, one of each of the three groups, were implanted on the calvaria of each of 26 Wistar rats. Thirteen (study group) were administered with systemic TTC (10 mg/kg), while the remaining 13 received saline injections (control group). Calvarial tissues were retrieved after 3 weeks, and histological sections were analyzed by image analysis software.

Results: Percentage of remaining collagen area within nonimpregnated membranes was 52.26 ± 20.67% in the study group, and 32.74 ± 13.81% in the control group. Immersion of membranes in 100 mg/mL TTC increased the amount of residual collagen to 63.46 ± 18.19% and 42.82 ± 12.99% (study and control groups, respectively). Immersion in 50 mg/mL TTC yielded maximal residual collagen values: 80.75 ± 14.86% and 59.15 ± 8.01% (study and control groups, respectively). Differences between the TTC concentrations, and between the control and the study groups were statistically significant.

Conclusions: Immersion of collagen membranes in TTC solution prior to their implantation and systemic administration of TTC significantly decreased the membranes' degradation.
Newborn Individual Development Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP): A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Wallin Lars , Eriksson Mats
Published: April 2009

Background: Important advancements have been made in the care of preterm infants. Health services have introduced various methods aimed at promoting attachment, breastfeeding, and neurological development. The Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP), developed to stimulate preterm infants at levels adapted to the child's degree of neurological maturity, is increasingly being used.

Objectives: The aim was to investigate the impact of NIDCAP on the psychomotor development, neurological status, medical/nursing care outcomes, and parental perceptions. A further aim was to evaluate the cost‐related effects of NIDCAP.

Data Extraction and Analysis: A literature search up to September 2007 was performed. The reviewed papers were assessed for methodological quality and only statistically significant findings were extracted.

Findings: The evidence compiled on the effects of NIDCAP is based on 12 articles from six randomized controlled trials that included approximately 250 children. Each of the studies was assessed as having medium quality. Most of the studies were small and many investigated a huge number of outcome variables, which decreased their scientific strength. On outcome variables in which a significant difference was found between the intervention (NIDCAP) and control groups, most studies showed better results for the NIDCAP group. This was particularly valid for cognitive and psychomotor development. Four studies also showed a reduced need for respiratory support for the NIDCAP group. No studies were identified that weighed the total cost of NIDCAP against its effects.

Conclusions: Despite promising findings, primarily on cognitive and motor development, the scientific evidence on the effects of NIDCAP is limited. Shortcomings in design and methods in the reviewed studies hamper far‐reaching claims on the effectiveness of the method. Scientific grounds for assessing the effects of NIDCAP would be substantially enhanced by a sufficiently comprehensive study with extended follow‐up and a clear focus on a few important outcome variables.
Synthesis and function of ribosomal proteins – fading models and new perspectives
Authors: Caldarola Sara , De Stefano Maria Chiara , Amaldi Francesco , Loreni Fabrizio
Published: April 2009

The synthesis of ribosomal proteins (RPs) has long been known to be a process strongly linked to the growth status of the cell. In vertebrates, this coordination is dependent on RP mRNA translational efficiency, which changes according to physiological circumstances. Despite many years of investigation, the trans‐acting factors and the signaling pathways involved in this regulation are still elusive. At the same time, however, new techniques and classic approaches have opened up new perspectives as regards RP regulation and function. In fact, the proteasome seems to play a crucial and unpredicted role in regulating the availability of RPs for subunit assembly. In addition, the study of human ribosomal pathologies and animal models for these diseases has revealed that perturbation in the synthesis and/or function of an RP activates a p53‐dependent stress response. Surprisingly, the effect of the ribosomal stress is more dramatic in specific physiological processes: hemopoiesis in humans, and pigmentation in mice. Moreover, alteration of each RP impacts differently on the development of an organism.
Enzymatic investigation of the Staphylococcus aureus type I signal peptidase SpsB – implications for the search for novel antibiotics
Authors: Rao Smitha , Bockstael Katrijn , Nath Sangeeta , Engelborghs Yves , Anné Jozef , Geukens Nick
Published: April 2009

Staphylococcus aureus has one essential type I signal peptidase (SPase), SpsB, which has emerged as a potential target in the search for antibiotics with a new mode of action. In this framework, the biochemical properties of SpsB are described and compared with other previously characterized SPases. Two different substrates have been used to assess the in vitro processing activity of SpsB: (a) a native preprotein substrate immunodominant staphylococcal antigen A and (b) an intramolecularly quenched fluorogenic synthetic peptide based on the sequence of the SceD preprotein of Staphylococcus epidermidis for fluorescence resonance energy transfer‐based analysis. Activity testing at different pH showed that the enzyme has an optimum pH of approximately 8. The pH‐rate profile revealed apparent pKa values of 6.6 and 8.7. Similar to the other SPases, SpsB undergoes self‐cleavage and, although the catalytic serine is retained in the self‐cleavage product, a very low residual enzymatic activity remained. In contrast, a truncated derivative of SpsB, which was nine amino acids longer at the N‐terminus compared to the self‐cleavage product, retained activity. The specificity constants (kcat/Km) of the full‐length and the truncated derivative were 1.85 ± 0.13 × 103 m−1·s−1 and 59.4 ± 6.4 m−1·s−1, respectively, as determined using the fluorogenic synthetic peptide substrate. These observations highlight the importance of the amino acids in the transmembrane segment and also those preceding the catalytic serine in the sequence of SpsB. Interestingly, we also found that the activity of the truncated SpsB increased in the presence of a non‐ionic detergent.
Exosites mediate the anti‐inflammatory effects of a multifunctional serpin from the saliva of the tick Ixodes ricinus
Authors: Prevot Pierre‐Paul , Beschin Alain , Lins Laurence , Beaufays Jérôme , Grosjean Amélie , Bruys Léa , Adam Benoît , Brossard Michel , Brasseur Robert , Zouaoui Boudjeltia Karim , Vanhamme Luc , Godfroid Edmond
Published: April 2009

Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) are a structurally related but functionally diverse family of ubiquitous proteins. We previously described Ixodes ricinus immunosuppressor (Iris) as a serpin from the saliva of the tick I. ricinus displaying high affinity for human leukocyte elastase. Iris also displays pleotropic effects because it interferes with both the immune response and hemostasis of the host. It thus inhibits lymphocyte proliferation and the secretion of interferon‐γ or tumor necrosis factor‐α by peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and also platelet adhesion, coagulation and fibrinolysis. Its ability to interfere with coagulation and fibrinolysis, but not platelet adhesion, depends on the integrity of its antiproteolytic reactive center loop domain. Here, we dissect the mechanisms underlying the interaction of recombinant Iris with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We show that Iris binds to monocytes/macrophages and inhibits their ability to secrete tumor necrosis factor‐α. Recombinant Iris also has a protective role in endotoxemic shock. The anti‐inflammatory ability of Iris does not depend on its antiprotease activity. Moreover, we pinpoint the exosites involved in this activity.
Thiaminylated adenine nucleotides. Chemical synthesis, structural characterization and natural occurrence
Authors: Frédérich Michel , Delvaux David , Gigliobianco Tiziana , Gangolf Marjorie , Dive Georges , Mazzucchelli Gabriel , Elias Benjamin , De Pauw Edwin , Angenot Luc , Wins Pierre , Bettendorff Lucien
Published: April 2009

Thiamine and its three phosphorylated derivatives (mono‐, di‐ and triphosphate) occur naturally in most cells. Recently, we reported the presence of a fourth thiamine derivative, adenosine thiamine triphosphate, produced in Escherichia coli in response to carbon starvation. Here, we show that the chemical synthesis of adenosine thiamine triphosphate leads to another new compound, adenosine thiamine diphosphate, as a side product. The structure of both compounds was confirmed by MS analysis and 1H‐, 13C‐ and 31P‐NMR, and some of their chemical properties were determined. Our results show an upfield shifting of the C‐2 proton of the thiazolium ring in adenosine thiamine derivatives compared with conventional thiamine phosphate derivatives. This modification of the electronic environment of the C‐2 proton might be explained by a through‐space interaction with the adenosine moiety, suggesting U‐shaped folding of adenosine thiamine derivatives. Such a structure in which the C‐2 proton is embedded in a closed conformation can be located using molecular modeling as an energy minimum. In E. coli, adenosine thiamine triphosphate may account for 15% of the total thiamine under energy stress. It is less abundant in eukaryotic organisms, but is consistently found in mammalian tissues and some cell lines. Using HPLC, we show for the first time that adenosine thiamine diphosphate may also occur in small amounts in E. coli and in vertebrate liver. The discovery of two natural thiamine adenine compounds further highlights the complexity and diversity of thiamine biochemistry, which is not restricted to the cofactor role of thiamine diphosphate.
Evoked Human Oesophageal Hyperalgesia: A Potential Tool for Analgesic Evaluation?
Authors: Olesen Anne Estrup , Staahl Camilla , Brock Christina , Arendt‐Nielsen Lars , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Hypersensitivity is a common finding in visceral disorders. Therefore, in the development and testing of analgesics for the treatment of visceral pain, it is important to establish an experimental pain model of visceral hypersensitivity. Such a model will mimic the clinical situation to a higher degree than pain models where the receptors and peripheral afferents are briefly activated as with, for example, electrical, thermal, and mechanical stimulations. In this study, a model to evoke experimental hyperalgesia of the oesophagus with a combination of acid and capsaicin was introduced. The study was a randomised, double‐blind, cross‐over study. Fifteen healthy volunteers were included. Sensory assessments to mechanical, heat, and electrical stimulations were done in the distal oesophagus, before and after perfusion with a 200 ml solution of acid+capsaicin (180 ml HCL 0.1 M and 2 mg capsaicin in 20 ml solvent) or saline. Oesophageal pain assessment and referred pain areas were evaluated. There were reproducible pain assessments between repetitions within the same day and between days (all P > 0.05). Acid+capsaicin perfusion induced 56% reduction of the pain threshold to heat (P = 0.04), 19% reduction of the pain threshold to electrical stimuli (P < 0.001), 78% increase of the referred pain areas to mechanical stimulation (P < 0.001) and 52% increase of the referred pain areas to electrical stimulus (P = 0.045). All volunteers were sensitised to one or more modalities by acid+capsaicin. The model was able to evoke consistent hyperalgesia and may be useful in future pharmacological studies.
Parenting Stress in Mothers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Phetrasuwan Supapak , Shandor Miles Margaret
Published: April 2009

PURPOSE.  The purpose of this paper is to describe the sources of parenting stress in mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and examine the relationship between parenting stress and maternal psychological status (depression and well‐being).

DESIGN AND METHODS.  A descriptive correlational design was used. Data were collected via mailed questionnaires.

RESULTS.  Behavioral symptoms were the primary source of parenting stress for mothers. There was no relationship between child characteristics and parenting stress. Mothers reporting more parenting stress had more depressive symptoms and lower levels of well‐being.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Our findings have implications for interventions with mothers to help them manage their children's behavior and focus on stress reduction and well‐being.
Institutional foodservice benchmarking: survey of administrators' attitudes and practices in the USA
Authors: Bright Saunya N. , Kwon Junehee , Bednar Carolyn , Newcomer Julia
Published: April 2009

Benchmarking is an ongoing process that gathers information to evaluate the best practices and improve performance. Despite possible changes and benefits, research reporting current foodservice benchmarking is limited. A nationwide survey of foodservice administrators was conducted to determine current practices and administrators' attitudes toward benchmarking. A questionnaire was developed, validated by experts and pilot‐tested. Randomly selected, 600 foodservice administrators from health‐care, school, correctional and university facilities received questionnaires, and 121 provided usable data (20%). Food cost percentage, labor cost percentage, and percent customer satisfaction with service were the three most used measures. Benchmarking was regarded as important in performing most respondents' jobs (61%), but fewer indicated their benchmarking knowledge as being above average (48%). For training, 41% indicated needs for training on ways to collaborate with benchmarking partners. The majority preferred training through professional association meetings (70%) and Internet‐based training (69%). Results indicate opportunities for benchmarking training preferably through meetings and Internet.
A case of canine Angiostrongylus vasorum in Scotland confirmed by PCR and sequence analysis
Authors: Helm J. , Gilleard J. S. , Jackson M. , Redman E. , Bell R.
Published: April 2009

This report describes the first recognised case of Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a native Scottish dog and its diagnostic confirmation using polymerase chain reaction. The use of this technique to definitively diagnose canine angiostrongylosis confirms the presence of this epidemiologically significant case. The implications of the changing distribution of this parasite are discussed.
Seasonal Changes in the Synthesis of the Neurosteroid 7α‐Hydroxypregnenolone Stimulating Locomotor Activity in Newts
Authors: Haraguchi Shogo , Matsunaga Masahiro , Koyama Teppei , Rego Jean‐Luc Do , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi
Published: April 2009

We recently found that the newt brain actively produces 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone, a novel amphibian neurosteroid stimulating locomotor activity. It is well known that locomotor activity of male newts increases during the breeding period. To understand the physiological role of 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone, we investigated seasonal changes in 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain of male newts. Interestingly, 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain showed marked changes during the annual breeding cycle, with a maximal level in the breeding period when locomotor activity of male newts increases. These results suggest that 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone induces seasonal locomotor changes in male newts.
Feeding Behavior in Mammals Including Humans
Authors: Magni Paolo , Dozio Elena , Ruscica Massimiliano , Celotti Fabio , Masini Maria Angela , Prato Paola , Broccoli Marco , Mambro Andrea , Morè Massimo , Strollo Felice
Published: April 2009

The complex control of food intake and energy metabolism in mammals relies on the ability of the brain to integrate multiple signals indicating the nutritional state and the energy level of the organism and to produce appropriate responses in terms of food intake, energy expenditure, and metabolic activity. Central regulation of feeding is organized as a long‐loop mechanism involving humoral signals and afferent neuronal pathways to the brain, processing in hypothalamic neuronal circuits, and descending commands using vagal and spinal neurons. Sensor mechanisms or receptors sensitive to glucose and fatty acid metabolism, neuropeptide and cannabinoid receptors, as well as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators synthesized and secreted within the brain itself are all signals integrated in the hypothalamus, which therefore functions as an integrator of signals from central and peripheral structures. Homeostatic feedback mechanisms involving afferent neuroendocrine inputs from peripheral organs, like adipose tissue, gut, stomach, endocrine pancreas, adrenal, muscle, and liver, to hypothalamic sites thus contribute to the maintenance of normal feeding behavior and energy balance. In addition to transcriptional events, peripheral hormones may also alter firing and/or connection (synaptology) of hypothalamic neuronal networks in order to modulate food intake. Moreover, intracellular energy sensing and subsequent biochemical adaptations, including an increase in AMP‐activated protein kinase activity, occur in hypothalamic neurons. Understanding the regulation of appetite is clearly a major research effort but also seems promising for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for obesity.
Effects of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide on the Survival and Signal Transduction Pathways in Human Choriocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Boronkai A. , Brubel R. , Racz B. , Tamas A. , Kiss P. , Horvath G. , Lubics A. , Szigeti A. , Bellyei Sz. , Toth G. , Lakatos A. , Reglodi D.
Published: April 2009

The pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) has several effects in endocrine and reproductive organs, including the placenta. PACAP is generally known as a survival‐promoting peptide acting on divergent signal transduction pathways. However, its effects on the survival and signaling mechanisms of trophoblast cells are not known. In the present study we found that 1‐h pretreatment with PACAP38 did not significantly influence the survival of JAR cytotrophoblast cells. However, the survival rate of cells exposed to oxidative stress or CoCl2‐inducedin vitrohypoxia showed a significant further decrease in PACAP‐treated cells, implying that PACAP sensitizes the cells to these stressors. This was not observed in the case of lipopolysaccharide or ethanol treatment. Western blot data revealed that, in cells exposed to oxidative stress, PACAP treatment decreased phosphorylation of all extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), phospho‐jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), protein kinase B, p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phospho‐glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) and the expression of bax. The overall effect seems to be a sensitizing effect in almost all examined pathways when oxidative stress was applied, which may explain the enhancing effect of PACAP on cell death in contrast to most other cell types examined so far. Our data show that the signaling mechanism of PACAP may be different in trophoblast cells to that observed in other cell lines.
Further Insights into the Insulin‐like Growth Factor‐I System of Bony Fish Pituitary with Special Emphasis on Reproductive Phases and Social Status
Authors: Shved Natallia , Baroiller Jean‐François , Eppler Elisabeth
Published: April 2009

Insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I, which is crucially involved in fish growth, differentiation, and reproduction, occurs in tilapia pituitary. IGF‐I peptide, which is probably produced in hypothalamic perikarya, is present in axons of the neurohypophysis, and IGF‐I mRNA and peptide are present in the adenohypophysis in adrenocorticotrophic hormone cells, melanocyte‐stimulating hormone cells, with interindividual differences in growth hormone cells, and, starting with puberty, in gonadotrophic hormone (GTH) cells. Subordinate males showed a high IGF‐I but a lower β‐luteinizing hormone expression, while in dominant males the opposite was found. IGF‐I from the GTH cells may act as auto/paracrine regulators of GTH cell proliferation and enhance GTH synthesis and release during puberty and reproduction, depending on the social status.
Phylogenetic History, Pharmacological Features, and Signal Transduction of Neurotensin Receptors in Vertebrates
Authors: Hwang Jong‐Ik , Kim Dong‐Kyu , Kwon Hyuk Bang , Vaudry Hubert , Seong Jae Young
Published: April 2009

Neurotensin (NTS) plays important roles in neurotransmission and neuromodulation in the nervous system. NTS exerts its effects mainly by binding to the neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1) and receptor 2 (NTSR2) that belong to the G protein‐coupled receptor superfamily. While studies on NTS and NTSR have been conducted mainly in mammalian systems, little is known about this ligand–receptor pair in nonmammalian species. Using a basic local alignment search tool combined with our previous identification of bullfrogLithobates catesbeianusNTSR1 and NTSR2, we can define the evolutionary lineage of NTS and NTSR in vertebrates. Fish may have only one NTSR, which is orthologous to amphibian and mammalian NTSR1. Amphibian and mammalian species have two lineages of NTSR1 and NTSR2 subfamilies. While amphibian and mammalian NTSRs have overall structural similarity within the given subfamilies, they exhibit different pharmacological features and signal transduction pathways. This review will discuss the phylogenetic history of the G protein‐coupled NTSRs, the structural features that may influence their pharmacological properties and signal transduction mechanisms, and the molecular interactions between NTSR1 and NTSR2 in vertebrates.
Expression of Cry2 in the Chicken Pineal Gland
Authors: Nagy Andras D. , Seomangal Karishma , Kommedal Siri , Csernus Valer J.
Published: April 2009

Pineal expression of Cry2 mRNA has been examined in chickens under normal (LD) and reversed (DL) light–dark conditions. In vivo the peak of Cry2 mRNA content at late subjective day under LD diminished after switching to a DL schedule. In vitro, Cry2 mRNA levels showed a steady decrease during light exposure at subjective night. Our data show that light‐sensitive clock components in the pinealocytes may be involved in the repression of Cry2 transcription at night, which may contribute to resetting the phase of the clock within 24 h.
Metabolism of the Endocrine Disruptor BPA by Xenopus laevis Tadpoles
Authors: Fini Jean‐Baptiste , Dolo Laurence , Cravedi Jean‐Pierre , Demeneix Barbara , Zalko Daniel
Published: April 2009

Metabolism of the plasticizer bisphenol A (BPA), a thyroid function disruptor, was investigated in Xenopus laevis tadpoles. Uptake and biotransformation of [3H]‐BPA was followed over 72 h at 1 μmol/L and 10 μmol/L ± triiodothyronine. A rapid decrease of radioactivity in media was observed after [3H]‐BPA was added. [3H]‐BPA uptake reached 25% after 24 h then ranged between 6% and 15%. Metabolic profiles of water samples at 24, 48, and 72 h as well as tadpole extracts (at 72 h) were obtained using radio‐HPLC. Parent (unmodified) BPA was consistently found in water samples and within tadpoles. Six peaks corresponding to BPA metabolites were detected. Based on retention time comparison with standards isolated from rat and human material, the two main metabolites were identified as BPA–glucuronide and BPA–sulfate. Thus, Xenopus laevis provides a useful model for studying BPA effects in vertebrates, as the main BPA metabolites are similar to those produced in mammals.
Neuropeptides Modulate the Heart of the Stick Insect Baculum extradentatum
Authors: Lange Angela B. , Calvin Amanda , Da Silva Rosa
Published: April 2009

The dorsal vessel of the stick insect Baculum extradentatum consists of a tubular heart and an aorta that extends anteriorly into the head. Alary muscles, associated with the heart, are anchored to the body wall with attachments to the dorsal diaphragm. Alary muscle contraction draws hemolymph into the heart through incurrent ostia. Hemolymph exits the heart through the excurrent ostia present on the dorsal vessel in thoracic and abdominal segments. FMRFamide‐related peptides are present in axons of the segmental nerves that project to the dorsal vessel and in processes extending over the heart and alary muscles. Immunoreactive processes are also localized to the valves of the incurrent ostia and excurrent ostia and to the lateral cardiac nerve and lateral cardiac neurons.
Understanding the Multifactorial Control of Growth Hormone Release by Somatotropes
Authors: Gahete Manuel D. , Durán‐Prado Mario , Luque Raúl M. , Martínez‐Fuentes Antonio J. , Quintero Ana , Gutiérrez‐Pascual Ester , Córdoba‐Chacón José , Malagón María M. , Gracia‐Navarro Francisco , Castaño Justo P.
Published: April 2009

Control of postnatal growth is the main, but not the only, role for growth hormone (GH) as this hormone also contributes to regulating metabolism, reproduction, immunity, development, and osmoregulation in different species. Likely owing to this variety of group‐specific functions, GH production is differentially regulated across vertebrates, with an apparent evolutionary trend to simplification, especially in the number of stimulatory factors governing substantially GH release. Thus, teleosts exhibit a multifactorial regulation of GH secretion, with a number of factors, from the newly discovered fish GH‐releasing hormone (GHRH) to pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating peptide (PACAP) but also gonadotropin‐releasing hormone, dopamine, corticotropin‐releasing hormone, and somatostatin(s) directly controlling somatotropes. In amphibians and reptiles, GH secretion is primarily stimulated by the major hypothalamic peptides GHRH and PACAP and inhibited by somatostatin(s), while other factors (ghrelin, thyrotropin‐releasing hormone) also influence GH release. Finally, in birds and mammals, primary control of GH secretion is exerted by a dual interplay between GHRH and somatostatin. In addition, somatotrope function is modulated by additional hypothalamic and peripheral factors (e.g., ghrelin, leptin, insulin‐like growth factor‐I), which together enable a balanced integration of feedback signals related to processes in which GH plays a relevant regulatory role, such as metabolic and energy status, reproductive, and immune function. Interestingly, in contrast to the high number of stimulatory factors impinging upon somatotropes, somatostatin(s) stand(s) as the main primary inhibitory regulator(s) for this cell type.
Function of the Opioid System during Inflammation in Carp
Authors: Verburg‐van Kemenade B. M. Lidy , Savelkoul Huub F. J. , Chadzinska Magdalena
Published: April 2009

The opioid system is involved in modulation of both innate and acquired immune responses, thus altering resistance to a variety of infectious agents. We sequenced and characterized carp opioid receptors (MOR, DOR, and KOR) and found their regulated expression in piscine leukocytes. Moreover, both in vivo and in vitro opioids affect activity of leukocytes and expression of inflammatory molecules, especially chemokines and chemokine receptors. Our data indicate an evolutionary conserved role for the opioid system in immune regulation.
Demonstration of the Proopiomelanocortin Signaling System in the Primary Immune Organ of the Quail
Authors: Kobayashi Tetsuya , Takaso Aya , Tanaka Shigeyasu , Amano Masafumi , Takahashi Akiyoshi , Iwamuro Shawichi , Machida Takeo
Published: April 2009

There is growing evidence to suggest that proopiomelanocortin (POMC), a precursor of adrenocorticotropin and α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH), also exists in extrapituitary organs, including immune organs. We investigated the presence of the POMC signaling system in the avian‐specific primary immune organ the bursa of Fabricius (BF) of the adult quail. Immunohistochemical staining revealed the presence of cells showing immunopositive reaction with anti‐α‐MSH antibody in the quail specimens. RT‐PCR analysis revealed the expression of POMC, prohormone convertases (PC1/3 and PC2), and three melanocortin receptor subtype (MC1R, MC4R, and MC5R) mRNAs in total RNA specimens of the BF. These findings demonstrate that in the quail BF, just as in the pituitary, immunopositive α‐MSH substances may be produced via specific cleavages of POMC by the sequential actions of PC1/3 and PC2. The observation of MCR expression within the BF suggests that the α‐MSH substances may exert paracrine actions within the BF.
Structural and Functional Evolution of Vertebrate Neuroendocrine Stress Systems
Authors: Denver Robert John
Published: April 2009

The vertebrate hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA; or interrenal) axis plays pivotal roles in animal development and in physiological and behavioral adaptation to environmental change. The HPA, or stress axis, is organized in a hierarchical manner, with feedback operating at several points along the axis. Recent findings suggest that the proteins, gene structures, and signaling pathways of the HPA axis were present in the earliest vertebrates and have been maintained by natural selection owing to their critical adaptive roles. In all vertebrates studied, the HPA axis is activated in response to stressors and is controlled centrally by peptides of the corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) family of which four paralogous members have been identified. Signaling by CRF‐like peptides is mediated by at least two distinct G protein‐coupled receptors and modulated by a secreted binding protein. These neuropeptides function as hypophysiotropins and as neurotransmitters/neuromodulators, influencing stress‐related behaviors, such as anxiety and fear. In addition to modulating HPA activity and behavioral stress responses, CRF‐like peptides are implicated in timing key life history transitions, such as metamorphosis in amphibians and birth in mammals. CRF‐like peptides and signaling components are also expressed outside of the central nervous system where they have diverse physiological functions. Glucocorticoids are the downstream effectors of the HPA axis, playing essential roles in development, energy balance and behavior, and feedback actions on the activity of the HPA axis.
The Amphibian (Rana esculenta) Brain Progesterone Receptor: Relationship to Plasma Steroids and Vitellogenic Cycle during the Gonadal Recovery Phase
Authors: Guerriero Giulia , Roselli Charles E. , Ciarcia Gaetano
Published: April 2009

We report the presence of a progesterone receptor (PR) in the brain of the female amphibian Rana esculenta and changes in the levels of this PR during the gonadal recovery phase in relation to different circulating steroid levels and steroid treatment. The highest level of the PR in the nuclear brain extract corresponded to a low level of plasma progesterone and occurred when vitellogenin synthesis was at a minimum. The lowest level was found during follicular growth, concomitant with increased plasma 17β‐estradiol and progesterone levels. The PR levels were significantly higher in ovariectomized female R. esculenta than in intact and sham‐operated female frogs. Treatment with 17β‐estradiol and progesterone downregulated the frog brain PR, indicating that a possible progesterone–receptor interaction is involved in the modulation of vitellogenin.
Expression of Gonadotropin α, Follicle‐stimulating Hormone β, and Luteinizing Hormone β Genes of the Hermaphroditic Fish Kryptolebias marmoratus Exposed to Octylphenol, 17β Estradiol, and Tamoxifen
Authors: Rhee Jae‐Sung , Lee Young‐Mi , Seo Jung Soo , Han JeongHoon , Lee Jae‐Seong
Published: April 2009

In order to study the expression of the gonadotropin α subunit and β subunit [follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH)‐β and luteinizing hormone (LH)‐β] cDNAs in the hermaphroditic fish Kryptolebias marmoratus, we cloned these genes and analyzed their modulatory effects in the brain/pituitary tissue after exposure to 17β estradiol (E2), tamoxifen (TMX), and octyphenol. Gonadotropin β subunit (FSH‐β and LH‐β) showed E2‐dependent upregulation in most hermaphrodites, whereas TMX did not show elevated expression. Octyphenol also showed a similar effect of upregulation on FSH‐β expression but not for the LH‐β gene. These results suggest that the expression of FSH‐β and LH‐β in K. marmoratus is associated with their expression on endocrine‐disrupting chemicals in this species.