bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF CASEINATE, WHEY AND MILK PROTEINS ON EMULSIFIED BEEF MEAT BATTERS PREPARED WITH DIFFERENT PROTEIN LEVELS
Authors: YOUSSEF MOHAMED K. , BARBUT SHAI
Published: September 2010

The effects of meat protein substitution (2%) with sodium caseinate, milk protein isolates or whey protein isolates (WPI) at varying levels of meat protein (13–15%) were studied in emulsified beef meat batters prepared with canola oil (25%). Increasing meat protein to 14 and 15% resulted in less stable emulsions (higher cook loss) compared with the 13% protein. At an equal protein level, all dairy proteins reduced cook loss (P < 0.05) compared with the all meat protein treatments. Overall, WPI provided the best emulsifying and moisture retention. Increasing the protein content also resulted in higher hardness and springiness values in all treatments. The addition of dairy protein resulted in softer, lighter and less red products compared with the all meat controls; colors being affected by the dairy protein source and protein content. Light microscopy revealed that increasing protein content caused some fat globule coalescence and more protein aggregation. WPI formed distinct dairy protein gel regions within the meat batter matrix, which appeared to interact with meat protein matrix.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The main goal of this study was to understand the effects of partially substituting meat proteins with dairy proteins on the performance (cook loss and textural properties) of comminuted meat batters prepared with canola oil. The incorporation of canola oil, instead of animal fat, offers a new healthy alternative to the consumer but has its challenges in terms of keeping this liquid oil (high unsaturation level) within the meat product).
Effects of Riboflavin Photosensitization on Daidzein and Its Photosensitized Derivatives
Authors: Park ChanUk , Yeo JuDong , Park MinHee , Park Jin‐Byung , Lee JaeHwan
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Photosensitized compounds from daidzein were studied in a riboflavin model system under visible light irradiation by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). As the period of light irradiation increased, concentration of daidzein decreased significantly (P< 0.05) and new peaks of daidzein derivatives were observed and changed during photosensitization. Three new peaks from photosensitized daidzein were tentatively identified as 7‐, 3′, 4′‐trihydroxyisoflavone (or 3′‐hydroxydaidzein) and 2 dimmers of daidzein by a combination of HPLC‐mass spectrometry (MS) and retention times of standard compounds by HPLC. Addition of sodium azide and removal of headspace oxygen treatment affected the formation of newly formed peaks. The type I pathway of riboflavin photosensitization played more important roles than type II pathways on the formation of daidzein derivatives.

Practical Application: Isoflavones are important phytochemicals found in soy foods. Generally, many foods containing soy ingredients are displayed under visible light irradiation. Also, riboflavin can be found in many foods containing vegetables. The results of this study can be used to understand the stability and changes of isoflavone aglycones in soy and soy‐based foods under visible light irradiation.
Detection of Target Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B Antigen in Orange Juice and Popular Carbonated Beverages Using Antibody‐Dependent Antigen‐Capture Assays
Authors: Principato MaryAnn , Njoroge Joyce M. , Perlloni Andrei , Donnell Michael O’ , Boyle Thomas , Jones, Jr Robert L.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  There is a critical need for qualitative and quantitative methodologies that provide the rapid and accurate detection of food contaminants in complex food matrices. However, the sensitivity of the assay can be affected when antigen‐capture is applied to certain foods or beverages that are extremely acidic. This study was undertaken to assess the effects of orange juice and popular carbonated soft drink upon the fidelity of antibody‐based antigen‐capture assays and to develop simple approaches that could rescue assay performance without the introduction of additional or extensive extraction procedures. We examined the effects of orange juice and a variety of popular carbonated soft drink beverages upon a quantitative Interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay system and a lateral flow device (LFD) adapted for the detection of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) in foods. Alterations in the performance and sensitivity of the assay were directly attributable to the food matrix, and alterations in pH were especially critical. The results demonstrate that approaches such as an alteration of pH and the use of milk as a blocking agent, either singly or in combination, will partially rescue ELISA performance. The same approaches permit lateral flow to efficiently detect antigen.

Practical Application:  The authors present ways to rescue an ELISA assay compromised by acidity in beverages and show that either the alteration of pH, or the use of milk as a blocking agent are not always capable of restoring the assay to its intended efficiency. However, the same methods, when employed with lateral flow technology, are rapid and extremely successful.
Minimal Effects of High‐Pressure Treatment on Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Inoculated into Peanut Butter and Peanut Products
Authors: Grasso Elizabeth M. , Somerville Jeremy A. , Balasubramaniam V.M. , Lee Ken
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  About 1.2 billion pounds of peanut butter are consumed annually in the United States. In 2008 to 2009, an outbreak involving Salmonella Typhimurium in peanut butter led to a recall of over 3900 products by over 200 companies. More than 700 people became sick, 100 were hospitalized, and 9 people died from this outbreak. This study examines the efficacy of high‐pressure processing (HPP) to decrease S. Typhimurium American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 53647 inoculated into peanut butter and model systems. The viability of S. Typhimurium in peanut butter stored at room temperature was investigated. A culture of S. Typhimurium (6.88 log CFU/g) was inoculated into peanut butter. Following 28 d at 20 °C there was a 1.23‐log reduction. Approximately 106 to 107 CFU/g S. Typhimurium were inoculated into 4 brands of peanut butter, 3 natural peanut butters and peanut flour slurries at 2, 5, and 10% peanut flour protein in peanut oil and in distilled water. All were treated at 600 MPa for 5 min at 45 °C. While significant differences were found between natural peanut butter and peanut protein mixtures, the reduction was <1.0 log. The peanut flour/oil mixtures had a 1.7, 1.6, and 1.0‐log reduction from HPP (2, 5, and 10% protein, respectively) whereas peanut flour/water mixtures had a 6.7‐log reduction for all protein levels. Oil had a protective effect indicating HPP may not help the microbial safety of water‐in‐oil food emulsions including peanut butter.

Practical Application:  There have been multiple outbreaks of foodborne illness involving peanut butter products. This study looks at the potential use of high‐pressure processing to reduce the bacteria that may be in peanut butter.
Process Control of Lightly Salted Wild and Farmed Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) by Brine Injection, Brining, and Freezing—A Low Field NMR Study
Authors: Gudjonsdottir Maria , Gunnlaugsson Valur N. , Finnbogadottir Gudrun A. , Sveinsdottir Kolbrun , Magnusson Hannes , Arason Sigurjon , Rustad Turid
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to use low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and traditional chemical methods to investigate the physical and chemical differences in wild and farmed cod processed pre‐ and postrigor, and how these properties were affected by brine injection, brining, and freezing. In prerigor processed farmed or wild cod, brine injections followed by brining for 2 d, with brine concentrations up to 5.5% and 4%, respectively, were not sufficient to reach a muscle salt concentration of 2% as aimed for, while wild cod processed postrigor had sufficient salt uptake after the same processing. Low‐field NMR gave valuable information about the differences in the muscle structure between wild and farmed cod as well as the state of the water in the muscle during brine injection, brining, and during rigor tension. Low‐field NMR is, therefore, a valuable tool that can be used to optimize the salting and storing processes of lightly salted cod products from both wild and farmed cod. For farmed cod to be used in the production of lightly salted products further research is needed.

Practical Application:  Optimal processing of lightly salted cod products is important to the fish industry, due to an increasing market for this product in southern Europe. Farmed cod, which is seen as a potential steady raw material source for this production, differs considerably from its wild counterparts by having other chemical and physical muscle properties, such as lower water content and lower pH. With the processing procedures used today the farmed cod can, therefore, only be used in some of the products, where wild cod is currently used as raw material. It is, therefore, important that the processing of these products is optimized with regard to these differences in the raw material. This study gives a valuable contribution to further studies about optimal combinations of brine injections, brining, and freezing of pre‐ and postrigor processed farmed compared to wild cod.
Thermal and Rheological Properties of L‐Polylactide/Polyethylene Glycol/Silicate Nanocomposites Films
Authors: Ahmed Jasim , Varshney Sunil K. , Auras Rafael , Hwang Sung W.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The melt rheology and thermal properties of polylactide (PLA)‐based nanocomposite films that were prepared by solvent casting method with L‐PLA, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and montmorillonite clay were studied. The neat PLA showed predominantly solid‐like behavior (G′ > G″) and the complex viscosity (η*) decreased systematically as the temperature increased from 184 to 196 °C. The elastic modulus (G′) of PLA/clay blend showed a significant improvement in the magnitude in the melt, while clay concentration was at 6% wt or higher. At similar condition, PEG dramatically reduced dynamic modulii and complex viscosity of PLA/PEG blend as function of concentration. A nanocomposite blend of PLA/PEG/clay (74/20/6) when compared to the neat polymer and PLA/PEG blend exhibited intermediate values of elastic modulus (G′) and complex viscosity (η*) with excellent flexibility. Thermal analysis of different clay loading blends indicated that the melting temperature (Tm) and glass transition temperature (Tg) remained unaffected irrespective of clay concentration due to immobilization of polymer chain in the clay nanocomposite. PEG incorporation reduced the Tg and the Tm of the blends (PLA/PEG and PLA/PEG/clay) significantly, however, crystallinity increased in the similar condition. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image of nanocomposite films indicated good compatibility between PLA and PEG, whereas clay was not thoroughly distributed in the PLA matrix and remained as clusters. The percent crystallinity obtained by X‐ray was significantly higher than that of differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) data for PLA.
Glucosinolates in Broccoli Sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. italica) as Conditioned by Sulphate Supply during Germination
Authors: Pérez‐Balibrea Santiago , Moreno Diego A. , García‐Viguera Cristina
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Sulphur (S) fertilization is essential for primary and secondary metabolism in cruciferous foods. Deficient, suboptimal, or excessive S affects the growth and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in adult plants. Nevertheless, there is little information regarding the influence of S fertilization on sprouts and seedlings. An experiment was set up to evaluate the effect of S fertilization, supplied as K2SO4 at 0, 15, 30, and 60 mg/L, on the glucosinolate content of broccoli sprouts during the germination course of 3, 6, 9, and 12 d after sowing. Glucosinolate concentration was strongly influenced by germination, causing a rapid increase during the first 3 d after sowing, and decreasing afterwards. The S supply increased aliphatic and total glucosinolate content at the end of the monitored sprouting period. S‐treated sprouts, with S15, S30, and S60 at 9 and 12 d after sowing presented enhanced glucosinolate content. Overall, both germination time and S fertilization were key factors in maximizing the bioactive health‐promoting phytochemicals of broccoli.

Practical Application:  Germination with sulphate is a simple and inexpensive way to obtain sprouts that contain much higher levels of glucosinolates (health promoting compounds), than the corresponding florets from the same seeds.
24‐Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Response to Combination Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide and Amlodipine/Hydrochlorothiazide in Stage 2 Hypertension by Ethnicity: The EVALUATE Study
Authors: Wright Jr Jackson T. , Lacourcière Yves , Samuel Rita , Zappe Dion , Purkayastha Das , Black Henry R.
Published: September 2010

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich).

Several studies reported racial/ethnic differences in blood pressure (BP) response to antihypertensive monotherapy. In a 10‐week study of stage 2 hypertension, 320/25 mg valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) reduced ambulatory BP (ABP) significantly more effectively than 10/25 mg amlodipine/HCTZ. Results (post hoc analysis) are described in Caucasians (n=256), African Americans (n=79), and Hispanics (n=86). Compared with clinic‐measured BP (no significant treatment‐group differences in ethnic subgroups), least‐squares mean reductions from baseline to week 10 in mean ambulatory systolic BP (MASBP) and mean ambulatory diastolic BP (MADBP) favored valsartan/HCTZ over amlodipine/HCTZ in Caucasians (−21.9/−12.7 mm Hg vs −17.6/−9.5 mm Hg; P=.0004/P<.0001). No treatment‐group differences in MASBP/MADBP were observed in African Americans (−17.3/−10.6 vs −17.9/−9.5; P=.76/P=.40) or Hispanics (−17.9/−9.7 vs −14.2/−7.2; P=.20/P=.17). Based on ABP monitoring, valsartan/HCTZ is more effective than amlodipine/HCTZ in lowering ABP in Caucasians. In African Americans and Hispanics, both regimens are similarly effective. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2010;12:833–840.
A Note on Air‐Cargo Capacity Contracts
Authors: Amaruchkul Kannapha , Cooper William L. , Gupta Diwakar
Published: September 2010

Carriers (airlines) use medium‐term contracts to allot bulk cargo capacity to forwarders who deliver consolidated loads for each flight in the contractual period (season). Carriers also sell capacity to direct‐ship customers on each flight. We study capacity contracts between a carrier and a forwarder when certain parameters such as the forwarder's demand, operating cost to the carrier, margin, and reservation profit are its private information. We propose contracts in which the forwarder pays a lump sum in exchange for a guaranteed capacity allotment and receives a refund for each unit of unused capacity according to a pre‐announced refund rate. We obtain an upper bound on the informational rent paid by the carrier for a menu of arbitrary allotments and identify conditions under which it can eliminate the informational rent and induce the forwarder to choose the overall optimal capacity allotment (i.e., one that maximizes the combined profits of the carrier and the forwarder).
Distribution Planning to Optimize Profits in the Motion Picture Industry
Authors: Somlo Barbara , Rajaram Kumar , Ahmadi Reza
Published: September 2010

We consider the distribution planning problem in the motion picture industry. This problem involves forecasting theater‐level box office revenues for a given movie and using these forecasts to choose the best locations to screen a movie. We first develop a method that predicts theater‐level box office revenues over time for a given movie as a function of movie attributes and theater characteristics. These estimates are then used by the distributor to choose where to screen the movie. The distributor's location selection problem is modeled as an integer programming‐based optimization model that chooses the location of theaters in order to optimize profits. We tested our methods on realistic box office data and show that it has the potential to significantly improve the distributor's profits. We also develop some insights into why our methods outperform existing practice, which are crucial to their successful practical implementation.
Magnitude of the 2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Leak
Authors: Crone Timothy J. , Tolstoy Maya
Published: September 2010

Modeling videos suggest that around 4.4 million barrels of oil escaped from the broken Deepwater Horizon well.
The cost-effectiveness of a lifestyle physical activity intervention in addition to a work style intervention on recovery from neck and upper limb symptoms and pain reduction in computer workers
Authors: Bernaards Claire M , Bosmans Judith E , Hildebrandt Vincent H , van Tulder Maurits W , Heymans Martijn W
Published: September 2010

Objectives

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a work style (WS) intervention and a work style plus physical activity (WSPA) intervention in computer workers with neck and upper limb symptoms compared with usual care.

Methods

An economic evaluation was conducted from an employer's perspective and alongside a randomised controlled trial in which 466 computer workers with neck and upper limb symptoms were randomised to a WS group (N=152), a WSPA group (N=156) or a usual care group (N=158). Total costs were compared to the effects on recovery and pain intensity. In the primary analyses, missing effect data were imputed using multiple imputation techniques.

Results

Total costs during the 12-month intervention and follow-up period were €1907 (WS), €2811 (WSPA) and €2310 (usual care). Differences between groups were not statistically significant. Neither intervention was more effective than usual care in improving overall recovery. The WS intervention was more effective than usual care in reducing current pain, average pain and worst pain in the past 4 weeks, but the WSPA intervention was not. The acceptability curve showed that when a company is willing to pay approximately €900 for a 1-point reduction in average pain (scale from 0 to 10), the probability of cost-effectiveness compared to usual care is 95%. Similar results were observed for current and worst pain.

Conclusions

This study shows that the WS intervention was not cost-effective for improving recovery but was cost-effective for reducing pain intensity, although this reduction was not clinically significant. The WSPA intervention was not cost-effective compared with usual care.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN87019406.
SELECTING BIOMARKERS FOR PRIMARY HYPERLIPIDEMIA AND UNSTABLE ANGINA IN THE CONTEXT OF NEURO-ENDOCRINE-IMMUNE NETWORK BY FEATURE SELECTION METHODS
Authors: CHEN JIANXIN , JIA ZHENHUA , WU XIANGCHUN , YUAN GUOQIANG , WEI CONG , ZHENG CHENGLONG , YI JIANQIANG , WU YILING
Published: September 2010

Hyperlipidemia (HL) and unstable angina (UA) are two sequential diseases that cause more and more morbidity and mortality world-wide. Biomarkers selection in the level of physical and chemical specifications (PCS) plays a key role in understanding the pathology of both diseases. Neuro-Endocrine-Immune (NEI) system is a preferable pathway to investigate the interaction network of related PCS in the context of HL and UA. Data mining approaches are a kind of advanced statistical methods to unravel the "secret" of interaction network of PCS in both diseases. Feature selection methods are a branch of data mining approaches to select informative subset of PCS as biomarkers to distinguish a disease from healthy control cohort with high classification accuracy. In this paper, we firstly use three feature selection methods combined with decision tree classification algorithm to select several biomarkers from NEI network. The results show that SVM based decision tree is best fit to select biomarkers for both diseases. Furthermore, we use the theory from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to divide HL and UA patients into two subgroups. Based on this, we propose a novel feature selection method to distinguish the two subgroups. We combine variance analysis with classification method to select three to four biomarkers for two subgroups in the context of HL and UA respectively, which means that NEI specifications behave differently between two subgroups. According to basic theory of TCM, variant subgroups defined by TCM need to be treated differently. It means that patients with the same disease may be treated in a personalized way. The research efforts in the paper not only to provide a better avenue to understand the nature of diseases, but also to pave a basis to treat two diseases in a personalized way.
A CONSTRAINT-BASED STOICHIOMETRIC MODEL OF THE STEROIDOGENIC NETWORK OF ZEBRAFISH (DANIO RERIO)
Authors: HALA D. , AMIN A. , MIKLER A. , HUGGETT D. B.
Published: September 2010

The metabolic process of steroidogenesis exhibits a complex biochemical network topology as the activity of various steroidogenic enzymes control cholesterol metabolism to steroid hormone derivatives. In this paper, a stoichiometric reconstruction of a sub-set of 65 reactions from the zebrafish (Danio rerio) steroidogenic network is presented and simulated using uniform reaction constraints. The reconstruction defined a set of 65 enzyme catalyzed reactions and 37 exchange or transport reactions for steroid metabolites. The reconstructed reactions were inclusive of cholesterol and androgen/estrogen metabolism. Biased (statement of network objective function) and un-biased (no statement of objective function) analyses were applied to identify network properties dependent on reaction stoichiometry. Random sampling of flux distributions through the network identified highly-correlated reaction sets that corresponded to the catalysis of steroid metabolites of physiological relevance. Subsequently, optimal flux distributions through network pathways were determined for the production of the three steroidogenic metabolites of: 11-deoxycorticosterone, testosterone and 17β-estradiol. Furthermore, flux variability analyses revealed and confirmed optimal network fluxes through physiologically feasible pathways. The stoichiometric dependence of reactions was also confirmed by conducting deletions of reactions utilized for the optimal production of 17β-estradiol. This paper demonstrates the potential application of constraint-based reconstruction and simulation techniques in enabling the construction of deterministic and predictive physiological models. This acknowledgement is poignant considering the susceptibility of the steroidogenic network to environmental and anthropogenic stressors.
Proinflammatory role of vasopressin through V1b receptors in hapten-induced experimental colitis in rodents: implication in IBD
Authors: Ferrier Laurent , Serradeil-Le Gal Claudine , Schulte Anke M. , Vasina Valentina , Gaultier Eric , Schroedel Silke , Ursino Maria Grazia , Chaumaz Gilles , Pascal Marc , De Ponti Fabrizio , Bueno Lionel
Published: September 2010

Vasopressin and its receptors modulate several gut functions, but their role in intestinal inflammation is unknown. Our aims were to determine 1) the localization of V1b receptors in human and rodent colon, 2) the role of vasopressin and V1b receptors in experimental colitis using two approaches: V1b−/−mice and a selective V1b receptor antagonist, SSR149415, and 3) the mechanisms involved. V1b receptors were localized in normal and inflamed colon from humans and rats. Experimental colitis was induced in rats and mice and some groups were treated before or after colitis induction with oral SSR149415 (3–30 mg/kg). Other groups of mice were submitted to dehydration to increase vasopressin plasma levels, prior to colitis induction. Body weight, damage scores, MPO, and TNF-α tissue levels were determined. Finally, colonic segments of wild-type (WT) and V1b−/−mice were mounted in Ussing chambers and paracellular permeability in response to vasopressin was studied. V1b receptors were expressed in enterocytes and ganglia cells of the enteric nervous system of human and rat intestine. Expression levels were independent from inflammatory status. Colitis was less severe in rodents treated by either preventive or curative SSR149415 and in V1b−/−mice. 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid induced a strong mortality in dehydrated animals that was reversed by preventive SSR149415 or mast cell stabilizer. Vasopressin significantly increased paracellular permeability in WT, but not in V1b−/−mice. Preincubation of colon tissues with SSR149415 abolished the vasopressin effect. Similarly, vasopressin had no effect in colonic preparations from WT mice pretreated with mast cell stabilizers. Vasopressin, through V1b receptor interaction, has proinflammatory properties linked to mast cell activation and downstream alterations of the colonic epithelial barrier. These findings underline the potential interest of V1b receptor blockers in gut inflammatory diseases.
Lower esophageal sphincter relaxation reflex kinetics: effects of peristaltic reflexes and maturation in human premature neonates
Authors: Pena Eneysis M. , Parks Vanessa N. , Peng Juan , Fernandez Soledad A. , Di Lorenzo Carlo , Shaker Reza , Jadcherla Sudarshan R.
Published: September 2010

We defined the sensory-motor characteristics of the lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (LESR) (stimulus threshold volume, response onset, and relaxation period, relaxation magnitude, nadir) during maturation in human neonates. We hypothesized that LESR kinetics differs during maturation and with peristaltic reflex type. Basal and adaptive esophageal motility testing was performed ( N = 20 premature neonates) at 34.7 and 39.1 wk ( time 1 and time 2). Effects of midesophageal provocation with graded stimuli ( N = 1,267 stimuli, air and liquids) on LESR kinetics during esophagodeglutition response (EDR) and secondary peristalsis (SP) were analyzed by mixed models. Frequency of LESR with basal primary peristalsis were different during maturation ( P = 0.03). During adaptive responses with maturation, 1) the frequencies of peristaltic reflexes and LESR were similar; 2) liquid stimuli resulted in a shorter LESR response latency and LESR nadir and greater LESR magnitude (all P < 0.05); 3) media differences were noted with LESR response latency (air vs. liquids, P < 0.02); and 4) infusion flow rate-LESR were different ( P < 0.01 for air and liquids). Mechanistically, 1) frequency of LESR was greater during peristaltic reflexes at both times (vs. none, P < 0.0001); 2) LESR response latency, duration, and time to complete LESR were longer with EDR (all P < 0.05, vs. SP at time 2); and 3) graded stimulus volume LESR were different for air and liquids ( P < 0.01). In conclusion, sensory-motor characteristics of LESR depend on the mechanosensitive properties of the stimulus (media, volume, flow), type of peristaltic reflex, and postnatal maturation. Maturation modulates an increased recruitment of inhibitory pathways that favor LESR.
Regional differences in colonic mucosa-associated microbiota determine the physiological expression of host heat shock proteins
Authors: Hu Shien , Wang Yunwei , Lichtenstein Lev , Tao Yun , Musch Mark W. , Jabri Bana , Antonopoulos Dionysios , Claud Erika C. , Chang Eugene B.
Published: September 2010

Cytoprotective heat shock proteins (Hsps) are critical for intestinal homeostasis and are known to be decreased in inflammatory bowel diseases. Signals responsible for maintenance of Hsp expression are incompletely understood. In this study, we find that Hsp25/27 and Hsp70 protein expressions are differentially regulated along the longitudinal length of the large intestine, being highest in the proximal colon and decreasing to the distal colon. This longitudinal gradient was similar in both conventionally colonized mouse colon as well as biopsies of human proximal and distal colon but was abolished in the colon of germ-free mice, suggesting a role of intestinal microbiota in the Hsp regional expression. Correspondingly, analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA genes of bacteria from each colonic segment indicated increased bacterial richness and diversity in the proximal colon. The mechanism of regulation is transcriptional, as Hsp70 mRNA followed a similar pattern to Hsp70 protein expression. Lysates of mucosa-associated bacteria from the proximal colon stimulated greater Hsp25 and Hsp70 mRNA transcription and subsequent protein expression in intestinal epithelial cells than did lysates from distal colon. In addition, transrectal administration of cecal contents stimulated Hsp25 and Hsp70 expression in the distal colon. Thus host-microbial interactions resulting in differential Hsp expression may have significant implications for the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and possibly for development of inflammatory diseases of the bowel.
Urotensin II receptor antagonist attenuates monocrotaline-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rats
Authors: Gao Shan , Oh Young-Bin , Shah Amin , Park Woo Hyun , Chung Myoung Ja , Lee Young-Ho , Kim Suhn Hee
Published: September 2010

Urotensin II (UII) is a vasoactive peptide with potent cardiovascular effects through a G protein-coupled receptor. Hypoxia stimulates the secretion of UII and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). However, the effect of UII on hypoxia-induced cardiac hypertrophy is still controversial. The present study was conducted to determine whether human UII (hUII)-mediated ANP secretion influences hypoxia-induced cardiac hypertrophy using in vitro and in vivo models. Hypoxia caused an increase in ANP secretion and a decrease in atrial contractility in isolated perfused beating rat atria. hUII (0.01 and 0.1 nM) attenuated hypoxia-induced ANP secretion without changing the atrial contractility, and the hUII effect was mediated by the UII receptor signaling involving phospholipase C, inositol 1,3,4 trisphosphate receptor, and protein kinase C. Rats treated with monocrotaline (MCT, 60 mg/kg) showed right ventricular hypertrophy with increases in pulmonary arterial pressure and its diameter and plasma levels of UII and ANP that were attenuated by the pretreatment with an UII receptor antagonist, urantide. An acute administration of hUII (5 μM injection plus 2.5 μM infusion for 15 min) decreased the plasma ANP level in MCT-treated rats but increased the plasma ANP level in MCT plus urantide-treated and sham-operated rats. These results suggest that hUII may deteriorate MCT-induced cardiac hypertrophy mainly through a vasoconstriction of the pulmonary artery and partly through the suppression of ANP secretion.
Effect of purple sweet potato leaves consumption on exercise-induced oxidative stress and IL-6 and HSP72 levels
Authors: Chang Wen-Hsin , Hu Shene-Pin , Huang Ying-Fen , Yeh Tzu-Shao , Liu Jen-Fang
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of purple sweet potato leaves (PSPL) consumption on oxidative stress markers in a healthy, nontrained, young male population after completing a running exercise protocol. A crossover design was applied, with 15 subjects participating in a two-step dietary intervention period. Each subject was given a high- (PSPL group) or low-polyphenol (control group) diet for 7 days with a 14-day washout period. After each dietary intervention period, all subjects performed 1 h of treadmill running at a speed corresponding to 70% of each subject's individual maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max). Blood samples were taken before exercise and at 0, 1, and 3 h after exercise. Compared with the control group, PSPL consumption significantly increased plasma total polyphenols concentration and total antioxidant power (i.e., the ferric-reducing ability of plasma) in the PSPL group. The markers of oxidative damage, plasma TBARS and protein carbonyl, significantly decreased. Plasma IL-6 concentration also decreased. However, no significant difference was found in HSP72 levels between the two groups. These findings indicate that consuming a high-polyphenol diet for 7 days can modulate antioxidative status and decrease exercise-induced oxidative damage and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion.
Exercise training before cardiac-specific Serca2 disruption attenuates the decline in cardiac function in mice
Authors: Ericsson Madelene , Sjåland Cecilie , Andersson Kristin B. , Sjaastad Ivar , Christensen Geir , Sejersted Ole M. , Ellingsen Øyvind
Published: September 2010

In the heart, function of the sarco(endo)plasmic Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2) is closely linked to contractility, cardiac function, and aerobic fitness. SERCA2 function can be increased by high-intensity interval training, whereas reduced SERCA2 abundance is associated with impaired cardiac function. The working hypothesis was, therefore, that exercise training before cardiomyocyte-specific disruption of the Serca2 gene would delay the onset of cardiac dysfunction in mice. Before Serca2 gene disruption by tamoxifen, untreated SERCA2 knockout mice ( Serca2flox/flox Tg-αMHC-MerCreMer; S2KO), and SERCA2 FF control mice ( Serca2flox/flox, S2FF) were exercise trained by high-intensity interval treadmill running for 6 wk. Both genotypes responded to training, with comparable increases in maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max; 17%), left ventricle weight (15%), and maximal running speed (40%). After exercise training, cardiac-specific Serca2 gene disruption was induced in both exercise trained and sedentary S2KO mice. In trained S2KO, cardiac function decreased less rapidly than in sedentary S2KO. V̇o2max remained higher in trained S2KO the first 15 days after gene disruption. Six weeks after Serca2 disruption, cardiac output was higher in trained compared with sedentary S2KO mice. An exercise-training program attenuates the decline in cardiac performance induced by acute cardiac Serca2 gene disruption, indicating that mechanisms other than SERCA2 contribute to the favorable effect of exercise training.
Age at Occurrence of Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Clinical Setting: Difference between 1986 and 2006
Authors: Cohen Salomon Y. , Dubois Lise , Tadayoni Ramin , Quentel Gabriel
Published: September 2010

Purpose: To our knowledge, there is no published study on the evolution of age of occurrence of exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The present study was performed to test whether or not the average age of patients with newly diagnosed choroidal neovascularization (CNV) due to AMD has changed in a clinical setting during the past 20 years. Methods: Nonrandomized comparative case study. Charts and fluorescein angiograms of consecutive patients diagnosed in 1986 and 2006 in a tertiary care center were analyzed to identify differences in age, gender and type of CNV. Mann-Whitney’s nonparametric test was used to compare the statistical distribution of the parameters. χ2 or Fisher’s exact test was used for categorical variables. Results: 357 patients with CNV due to AMD, 79 in 1986, and 278 in 2006 were included. The patients diagnosed in 2006 were 4.7 years older than those diagnosed in 1986 (80.1 ± 8.9 vs. 75.4 ± 6.7 years, p < 0.0001). The main increase was in the percentage of patients over 85 years: 11.39% in 1986 versus 26.98% in 2006. There was no significant difference between the two groups as regards gender or type of CNV. Conclusions: In our clinical setting, the average age of patients with newly diagnosed exudative AMD increased significantly between 1986 and 2006. The fact that in the present series more than 1 out of 4 patients was over 85 may have a significant impact on the potential side effects of currently available treatments of exudative AMD.
Influence of Cataract Morphology on Straylight and Contrast Sensitivity and Its Relevance to Fitness to Drive
Authors: Bal Tina , Coeckelbergh Tanja , Van Looveren Jan , Rozema Jos J. , Tassignon Marie-José
Published: September 2010

Aims: To evaluate straylight and contrast sensitivity in cataractous eyes of different morphologies, and to determine which type of cataract presents higher impairment of visual function, specifically compared to studies proposing new norms for European drivers. Methods: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity and straylight were measured in 97 cataractous eyes using respectively a Snellen chart, a Pelli-Robson chart and the compensation comparison method (C-Quant Straylight Meter). Cataracts were graded using the Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III) and divided into 4 groups: nuclear, cortical, nuclear-cortical and posterior subcapsular cataract. These results were compared to data from 38 cataract-free control subjects. Results: Contrast sensitivity was reduced and straylight increased in all cataract patients, most notably in posterior subcapsular and nuclear-cortical cataract. Contrast sensitivity and BCVA were correlated (r = 0.44), whereas straylight and BCVA were not. Applying cut-off values as proposed by European drivers studies of 1.25 log contrast sensitivity and 1.4 log straylight as safe margins for driving, 31% would be considered unfit to drive on the basis of contrast sensitivity and 78% on the basis of straylight, although their visual acuity was still above the current European visual acuity requirement for driving. Conclusions: Straylight and, to a lesser extent, contrast sensitivity are complementary to BCVA and should be taken into account when considering surgery or driving legality.
Sutureless Vitrectomy
Authors: Aylward G.W.
Published: September 2010

The introduction of pars plana vitrectomy was a revolution in ophthalmic surgery which allowed successful treatment of many previously untreatable conditions. After rapid early technical development, 3-port 20-gauge vitrectomy became established as the norm. Recent years have seen the introduction of new and innovative systems for performing vitrectomy without the need for sutures. This article describes the history of sutureless vitrectomy, and reviews the literature addressing the advantages and disadvantages of each technique.
Results of Confocal Microscopy Examinations after Collagen Cross-Linking with Riboflavin and UVA Light in Patients with Progressive Keratoconus
Authors: Knappe Steffi , Stachs Oliver , Zhivov Andrey , Hovakimyan Marina , Guthoff Rudolf
Published: September 2010

Purpose: Keratoconus is a predominantly bilateral form of corneal degeneration that is associated with central thinning and cone-shaped bulging of the cornea usually accompanied by a progressive reduction in visual acuity. A recent therapeutic option is cross-linking, a procedure designed to prevent the progression of keratoconus by the photochemical cross-linkage of collagen fibers. Patients and Methods: Eight eyes in 8 patients with progressive keratoconus were treated by the photochemical cross-linking method using riboflavin and UVA light. In addition to the usual ophthalmological examinations, patients were examined pre- and postoperatively by confocal in vivo laser scanning microscopy. Follow-up examinations were performed at 2 weeks and at 2, 4, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Results: Complete regeneration of corneal epithelium was detected by 2 weeks after therapy at the latest. The sub-basal nerve plexus could not be visualized by confocal microscopy after treatment. Immediately after treatment, the anterior corneal stroma had a honeycombed appearance but without the typical hyperreflective keratocyte nuclei. At about 6 months postoperatively, the corneal stroma had virtually regained its normal configuration. After therapy, confocal microscopy revealed that corneal endothelium was normal in terms of cell density and morphology at every time point. Conclusions: Confocal in vivo laser scanning microscopy is an investigative technique that permits reproducible visualization of structural changes in the cornea (epithelium, stroma and endothelium) following collagen cross-linking with riboflavin and UVA light. Once epithelial healing is complete, the epithelium and endothelium appear to be unaffected by the treatment. The most noteworthy structural changes, which are detected on confocal microscopy shortly after treatment, involve the anterior and middle corneal stroma. Over the course of time, up to 12 months postoperatively, these changes show a definite tendency to regress.
Natural History of Attention Deficits and Their Influence on Functional Recovery from Acute Stages to 6 Months after Stroke
Authors: Barker-Collo Suzanne , Feigin Valery , Lawes Carlene , Senior Hugh , Parag Varsha
Published: September 2010

Background: Attention deficits are common after stroke, yet their natural course is undefined. This paper examines the course of recovery of attention up to 6 months after stroke. Also examined was the relationship of attention deficits to hemisphere of lesion and to wider outcomes (e.g. quality of life) 6 months after stroke. Methods: After stroke, 43 individuals completed attention tests (Trails A/B, Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, Bells Test, Integrated Auditory Visual Continuous Performance Test) at baseline (within 4 weeks after stroke), 6 weeks and 6 months after stroke. Results: At baseline, 25–60% of attention test scores showed impairment. The sample was significantly disabled (Modified Rankin Scale, MRS), had poor quality of life (36-item short-form questionnaire of the Medical Outcomes Study, SF-36) and significant cognitive difficulties (Cognitive Failures Questionnaire). Visual alternating attention, auditory/visual sustained and alternating attention improved significantly across each time frame. Hemisphere of lesion was not significantly related to baseline attention or to degree of improvement (p > 0.05). However, it was noted that while left-hemisphere stroke was associated with improved Trails A performance at each assessment, right-hemisphere lesions improved from baseline to 6 weeks but declined from 6 weeks to 6 months. Improved physical outcomes (e.g. MRS) at 6 months were predicted from less severe stroke, while an improved SF-36 mental component score was best predicted from age. Cognitive ability was predicted from Trails A attention. While left-hemisphere stroke was associated with improved Trails A performance at each assessment, right-hemisphere lesions improved from baseline to 6 weeks but declined from 6 weeks to 6 months. Conclusions: The findings suggest that attention deficits, particularly with more complex forms of attention, are common acutely after stroke and that while they improve over time, they have a significant impact on wider aspects of functioning.
Post Hoc Parkinson’s Disease: Identifying an Uncommon Disease in the Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Ton T.G. , Jain S. , Boudreau R. , Thacker E.L. , Strotmeyer E.S. , Newman A.B. , Longstreth W.T. , Checkoway H.
Published: September 2010

Background: Although ongoing cohort studies offer a unique opportunity to apply existing information collected prospectively to further the scientific understanding of Parkinson’s disease (PD), they typically have limited information for clinical diagnosis. Methods: We used combinations of self-report, International Classification of Diseases – 9th edition codes and antiparkinsonian medications to identify PD in the Cardiovascular Health Study. To determine whether the expected inverse association between smoking and PD is evident using our outcome definitions, we assessed baseline smoking characteristics for various definitions of PD. Results: We identified 60 cases with prevalent PD (1.0%; 95% confidence interval, CI = 0.8–1.3%) and 154 with incident PD by year 14. Clear associations were observed for current smokers (odds ratio, OR = 0.50; 95% CI = 0.26–0.95) and for those who smoked ≧50 pack-years (OR = 0.53; 95% CI = 0.29–0.96). Estimates for smoking were similar when ≧2 data sources were required. Estimates for self-report alone were attenuated towards null. Conclusions: Using multiple data sources to identify PD represents an alternative method of outcome identification in a cohort that would otherwise not be possible for PD research. Ongoing cohort studies can provide settings in which rapid replication and explorations of new hypotheses for PD are possible.
Independent Validation of the Prolonged Length of Stay Score
Authors: Koton Silvia , Luengo-Fernandez Ramon , Mehta Ziyah , Rothwell Peter M.
Published: September 2010

Background: The prolonged length of stay (PLOS) score has recently been derived and validated in 2 independent national cohorts of acute stroke patients in Israel. The present study aimed to determine the performance of the PLOS score in an independent population-based cohort of stroke patients in a health care system considerably different from that in which the score was derived. Methods: The study was performed on all 434 patients with ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage hospitalized during the first 5 years of the population-based Oxford Vascular Study (OXVASC) in Oxfordshire, UK. Median (interquartile range) length of stay (LOS) and rates of LOS ≧7 days and LOS ≧30 days by the PLOS score were calculated. Model discrimination was assessed by the c-statistic and goodness of fit was evaluated with the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. Results: Median LOS and rates of LOS ≧7 days increased with the increase in PLOS score among all inpatients and hospital survivors. In the analysis of LOS ≧7 days, the PLOS c-statistic (95% CI) was 0.676 (0.618–0.734) for all inpatients and 0.722 (0.664–0.779) for hospital survivors. Findings were similar for LOS ≧30 days. The Hosmer-Lemeshow showed good calibration. Conclusions: The PLOS score successfully predicted PLOS in the OXVASC population of acute stroke patients. Although the score was originally derived for the prediction of prolonged acute hospitalization, it successfully predicted prolonged total LOS.
Functional Analyses of the Bone Marrow Kinase in the X Chromosome in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor–Induced Lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Jones Dennis , Xu Zhe , Zhang Haifeng , He Yun , Kluger Martin S. , Chen Hong , Min Wang
Published: September 2010

Objective—

The goal of this study was to investigate the novel hypothesis that bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome (Bmx), an established inflammatory mediator of pathological angiogenesis, promotes lymphangiogenesis.

Methods and Results—

We have recently demonstrated a critical role for Bmx in inflammatory angiogenesis. However, the role of Bmx in lymphangiogenesis has not been investigated. Here, we show that in wild-type mice, Bmx is upregulated in lymphatic vessels in response to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In comparison with wild-type mice, Bmx-deficient mice mount weaker lymphangiogenic responses to VEGF-A and VEGF-C in 2 mouse models. In vitro, Bmx is expressed in cultured human dermal microvascular lymphatic endothelial cells. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition and short interfering RNA mediated silencing of Bmx reduces VEGF-A and VEGF-C-induced signaling and lymphatic endothelial cell tube formation. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that Bmx differentially regulates VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3 receptor signaling pathways: Bmx associates with and directly regulates VEGFR-2 activation, whereas Bmx associates with VEGFR-3 and regulates downstream signaling without an effect on the receptor autophosphorylation.

Conclusion—

Our in vivo and in vitro results provide the first insight into the mechanism by which Bmx mediates VEGF-dependent lymphangiogenic signaling.