bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of duration of breastfeeding on neuropsychological development at 10 to 12 years of age in a cohort of healthy children
Authors: TOZZI ALBERTO EUGENIO , BISIACCHI PATRIZIA , TARANTINO VINCENZA , CHIAROTTI FLAVIA , D’ELIA LIDIA , DE MEI BARBARA , ROMANO MARIATERESA , GESUALDO FRANCESCO , SALMASO STEFANIA
Published: May 2012

Aim  The aim of this article was to explore the effect of duration of breastfeeding on neurocognitive development.

Method  The long‐term effect of breastfeeding on neurodevelopment was examined through a battery of neuropsychological tests in 1403 children (693 females, 710 males; mean age 11y 9mo [SD 6mo], range: 10y 3mo–12y 8mo) who were originally recruited at 6 to 12 weeks of age for a clinical trial on acellular pertussis vaccines. An estimated IQ was obtained from scores of the vocabulary, similarities, block design, and coding tests. Breastfeeding data had been prospectively collected throughout the first year of life. Duration of exclusive breastfeeding was defined as the time during which children received breast milk without receiving any supplemental formula or food. Children were assessed at 10 to 12 years of age. We adjusted the analysis on test scores for multiple potential confounders.

Results  Multivariate analysis showed a significant association between exclusive breastfeeding duration and test scores in the vocabulary (odds ratio [OR] 0.05; confidence interval [CI] 0.00–0.10; p=0.04) and similarities (OR 0.06; CI 0.01–0.11; p=0.03) tests. These associations have a negligible effect size, however. Scores on one writing praxis test subcategory decreased with increasing duration of both exclusive breastfeeding (OR −0.06; CI −0.11 to −0.01; p=0.03) and breastfeeding irrespective of consumption of other foods (OR −0.06; CI −0.11 to −0.01; p=0.03). A negative association was also found between one subcategory of the California verbal learning test and breastfeeding duration longer than 6 months (OR −0.21; CI −0.42 to −0.01; p=0.04).

Interpretation  Breastfed healthy children may perform better on neuropsychological tests in the language domain at 10 to 12 years of age. However, the effect of breast milk on neuropsychological performance in healthy children may have a limited clinical relevance and is confounded by parental education.
Is fast auditory change detection feature specific? An electrophysiological study in humans
Authors: Leung Sumie , Cornella Miriam , Grimm Sabine , Escera Carles
Published: May 2012

Recent oddball studies showed that auditory change detection responses exist in the first 50 ms after sound onset, upstream of mismatch negativity (MMN). We examined if these early responses could be elicited by feature‐specific changes, meaning changes in the value of one attribute of a stimulus, regardless of whether other attributes of the stimulus are changing or not. We used a multifeature paradigm with four types of deviants: frequency, duration, intensity, and interaural time difference. In the middle latency range, only frequency deviants led to an enhanced Nb response. All four feature changes generated significant MMNs. Our results indicate that human brain is capable of detecting a feature‐specific change for frequency attributes in the middle latency. The different levels of information being encoded in two separate event‐related potential time ranges support the notion of a hierarchical organization of auditory deviance detection.
Perrault's memoirs and Bernini: a reconsideration
Authors: ZARUCCHI JEANNE MORGAN
Published: May 2012

Gianlorenzo Bernini was invited to Paris by Louis XIV, from June through October 1665, to oversee his plan for the expansion of the Louvre. This design was not implemented, but during his brief stay, Bernini made a dramatic impression on contemporary eyewitnesses, including the French writer Charles Perrault. Perrault's Memoirs have been discounted as a credible source, since his brother Claude was ultimately selected as the architect of the Louvre's new east façade, and Perrault is assumed to have been among many at the French court who were biased against the Italian artist. Much of what Perrault described, however, was independently corroborated in other accounts, including his description of Bernini's personality and his critiques of Bernini's artistic works. Those works include the rejected plan for the Louvre and the portrait bust and equestrian sculpture of Louis XIV. This article proposes a reconsideration of Perrault's testimony as a legitimate historical record, rather than a malicious invention of the ‘French cabal’.
Development of Normal‐Suction Boundary Control Method Based on Inflow Cannula Pressure Waveform for the Undulation Pump Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Ishii Kohei , Saito Itsuro , Isoyama Takashi , Nakagawa Hidemoto , Emiko Nakano , Ono Toshiya , Shi Wei , Inoue Yusuke , Abe Yusuke
Published: May 2012

It is desirable to obtain the maximum assist without suction in ventricular assist devices (VADs). However, high driving power of a VAD may cause severe ventricle suction that can induce arrhythmia, hemolysis, and pump damage. In this report, an appropriate VAD driving level that maximizes the assist effect without severe systolic suction was explored. The target driving level was set at the boundary between low driving power without suction and high driving power with frequent suction. In the boundary range, intermittent mild suction may occur. Driving power was regulated by the suction occurrence. The normal‐suction boundary control method was evaluated in a female goat implanted with an undulation pump ventricular assist device (UPVAD). The UPVAD was driven in a semipulsatile mode with heartbeat synchronization control. Systolic driving power was adjusted using a normal‐suction boundary control method developed for this study. We confirmed that driving power could be maintained in the boundary range. Occurrences of suction were evaluated using the suction ratio. We defined this ratio as the number of suction occurrences divided by the number of heartbeats. The suction ratio decreased by 70% when the normal‐suction boundary control method was used.
Counterpulsation With Symphony Prevents Retrograde Carotid, Aortic, and Coronary Flows Observed With Intra‐Aortic Balloon Pump Support
Authors: Giridharan Guruprasad A. , Bartoli Carlo R. , Spence Paul A. , Dowling Robert D. , Koenig Steven C.
Published: May 2012

A counterpulsation device (Symphony) is being developed to provide long‐term circulatory support for advanced heart failure (HF) patients. In acute animal experiments, flow waveform patterns in the aortic, carotid, and coronary arteries were compared during Symphony and intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) support. Human data were examined for similarities. The 30‐mL Symphony was compared to a 40‐mL IABP in calves with cardiac dysfunction (80–100 kg, n = 8). Aortic pressures and aortic, carotid, and coronary artery flows were simultaneously recorded at baseline (devices off) and during 1:1 and 1:2 support. Forward, retrograde, and mean flows were calculated and compared for each test condition. Findings were also compared to aortic flow measurements recorded in HF patients (n = 21) supported by 40‐mL IABP. IABP caused significant retrograde flows in the aorta, coronary (IABP: −24 ± 8 mL/min, Symphony: −6 ± 2 mL/min, baseline: −2 ± 1 mL/min, P < 0.05), and carotid arteries (IABP: −30 ± 5 mL/min, Symphony: −0 ± 0 mL/min, baseline: −0 ± 0 L/min, P < 0.05) during ventricular systole compared to the Symphony. IABP support produced higher diastolic pressure and flow augmentation compared to Symphony. Due to retrograde flows during IABP support, Symphony provided higher overall coronary, carotid, and aortic flows. Similar reduction in total aortic flows due to retrograde flow was observed in HF patients during IABP support. Counterpulsation with an IABP via aortic volume displacement produces retrograde flows during rapid balloon deflation that reduces total flow. Counterpulsation with Symphony via volume removal eliminates retrograde flow and improves total flow more than that achieved with IABP. The Symphony may provide long‐term hemodynamic benefits in HF patients.
Computed Tomography Findings in 32 Joints Affected with Severe Elbow Incongruity and Fragmented Medial Coronoid Process
Authors: Samoy Yves , Gielen Ingrid , Van Caelenberg Annemie , van Bree Henri , Duchateau Luc , Van Ryssen Bernadette
Published: May 2012

Objective

To describe the computed tomography (CT) findings in dogs with severe elbow incongruity combined with a fragmented medial coronoid process (FCP) and compare these with normal joints and congruent joints affected byFCP.

Study Design

Clinical study.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs with elbow lameness (n = 40) and purpose bred dogs (n = 5; controls).

Methods

TheCTfeatures of 32 severely incongruent joints with concomitantFCPwere compared with those of 32 congruent elbow joints affected withFCPand 10 normal joints.

Results

In severely incongruent elbow joints, a radioulnar step and widened joint spaces were visible on eachCTplane. Additional features typically seen in severely incongruent elbows were a cyst at the radioulnar transition and fragmentation of the axial border of the medial coronoid incisure. None of these features appeared in normal or in congruentFCPjoints.

Conclusion

OnCT, several features associated with severe elbow incongruity and concomitantFCPwere detected, which were not found in normal joints or congruent joints affected byFCP.
Is there a gender difference in anatomic features of incisive canal and maxillary environmental bone?
Authors: Güncü Güliz N. , Yıldırım Yağmur D. , Yılmaz Hasan Güney , Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Velasco‐Torres Miguel , Al‐Hezaimi Khalid , Al‐Shawaf Reema , Karabulut Erdem , Wang Hom‐Lay , Tözüm Tolga F.
Published: May 2012

Objectives

The effect of gender on anatomic structures and various body systems were illustrated in the literature. The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of gender and tooth loss on incisive canal characteristics and buccal bone dimensions in the anterior maxilla.

Materials and methods

Computed tomographies (CTs) of 417 male and 516 female patients in four dental clinics were included in this study. The diameter and the length of the incisive canal; width and the length of the bone anterior to the canal; palatal bone length, root length, and root width of the central incisor teeth were measured and recorded from CT sections.

Results

Mean incisive canal length was 11.96 ± 2.73 mm and 10.39 ± 2.47 mm in men and women, respectively, (P < 0.05). In men, mean canal diameter was 2.79 ± 0.94 mm whereas in women it was 2.43 ± 0.85 mm and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Men had significant higher buccal bone dimensions (length and width of the bone anterior to the canal) than women. Absence of teeth in the anterior maxilla decreased incisive canal length and buccal bone dimensions; however, canal diameter remain unchanged.

Conclusions

Present results suggested a gender related differences in anatomic features of incisive canal and surrounding buccal bone. In addition, crestal canal diameter, buccal bone length, and thickness parameters might be different in distinct countries.
Correlation between molecular signals and bone bonding to titanium implants
Authors: Monjo Marta , Ramis Joana M. , Rønold Hans J. , Taxt‐Lamolle Sébastien F. , Ellingsen Jan E. , Lyngstadaas Staale P.
Published: May 2012

Objectives

A better understanding of the biological processes controlling osseointegration at the bone‐to‐implant interface is needed. The aim of this study was to examine which are the molecular and biochemical variables that are significantly related to osseointegration, using multiple regression analysis.

Materials and methods

Titanium coins were placed into the tibial cortical bone of New Zealand White rabbits and evaluated using pull‐out test after 4 and 8 weeks of healing. Correlations between pull‐out and several markers from tissue fluid (Lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] and Alkaline phosphatase [ALP] activities and total protein content) and peri‐implant bone tissue (total protein, RNA and DNA content, implant area covered with bone and gene expression of osteoblast, osteoclast and inflammation markers) were used to assess the importance of these parameters in bone healing and in relation to implant performance.

Results

Our results showed a negative correlation between the content of DNA, RNA and total protein at the peri‐implant bone tissue and the pull‐out force, indicating that as bone matures and implant becomes more osseointegrated, the organic content of bone decreases. The negative correlation found between pull‐out force and ALP activity pointed to a delayed healing in implants with lower pull‐out values and primary mineralization still ongoing. LDH activity and total protein content in the tissue fluid were as well negatively correlated with the pull‐out force. Finally, a positive correlation was observed between the pull‐out force and the expression of the osteoblast and the bone resorption markers, being osteocalcin and collagen‐I the best predictive markers for osseointegration after 4 and 8 weeks of healing respectively.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the evaluation of these markers could be relevant for the assessment of new implant surfaces for rapid bone healing and improved implant performance.
Candidate Biomarkers for Acute Rejection of Pregnancy After in‐utero Cell‐Based Therapy in Pre‐Immune Embryos via Ultrasound‐Guided Celocentesis
Authors: Santolaya Jacobo L. , Galan Isabel , Stefano Valeria Di , Jasani Sona , De Leon‐Luis Juan , Wolf Roman , Santolaya‐Forgas Joaquin
Published: May 2012

Problem

A maternal serum biomarker profile analysis was performed to determine potential indicators of acute rejection of pregnancy following in‐utero cell‐based treatments in pre‐immune embryos.

Method of study

We used an established non‐human primate model for in‐utero stem cell therapy at 38–42 days from fertilization. The maternal serum concentrations of nine candidate biomarkers for acute rejection of pregnancy were determined before and after the injection of different cocktails of human umbilical cord blood stem cells into the gestational sac. All animals were then followed until delivery.

Results

Twenty‐four hours after celocentesis, two of the animals aborted. These two animals received a cocktail of haemopoietic stem cells with the highest concentration of human CD3+ cells and showed a twofold increase in maternal serum IL‐6 and a threefold increase in prolactin after the procedure. The remaining six animals delivered at term live and normal newborns and only demonstrated an increase in prolactin after the celocentesis procedure.

Conclusion

IL‐6 and prolactin are master immunoregulators with pleiotropic biological functions that have different maternal serum concentrations depending on pregnancy outcome. These findings suggest that increases in maternal serum prolactin and IL‐6 concentration may be associated with acute rejection of pregnancy after in‐utero stem cell therapy.
Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) Gene‐765G/C Polymorphism and Advanced‐Stage Endometriosis in Korean Women
Authors: Kim Hye Yeon , Cho SiHyun , Choi Young Sik , Yang Hyo In , Lee Kyung Eun , Seo Seok Kyo , Lee Byung Seok
Published: May 2012

Problem

We investigated the association of
COX

‐2 gene‐765G/C polymorphism and risk of advanced‐stage endometriosis in Korean women.

Method of study

This study consisted of 268 women with advanced‐stage endometriosis and 242 control women without endometriosis in Korea. Subjects were genotyped for the ‐765G/C polymorphism of the
COX

‐2 gene by RFLP‐PCR analysis.

Results

There were significant differences in the genotype distributions of the ‐765G/C polymorphism between patients with advanced‐stage endometriosis and control subjects. The C allele for ‐765G/C was associated with significantly lower risk of advanced‐stage endometriosis (OR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.06–0.30).

Conclusions

We have demonstrated a significant genetic association between the ‐765G/C polymorphism and advanced‐stage endometriosis in Korean women. The ‐765C allele may be protective against the development of the disease in Korean women.
Implementation and results of bedside hearing screening with automated auditory brainstem response in the neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Smets Koenraad , Verrue Nele , Dhooge Ingeborg
Published: May 2012

Aim:  To evaluate implementation and results of neonatal hearing screening with automated auditory brainstem response (AABR) by bedside nurses in a single‐centre neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Methods:  Retrospective review of charts of 2074 newborns admitted over a 4‐year period.

Results:  One thousand eight hundred and 24 newborns (88%) were screened. A ‘pass’ result was obtained in 1761 patients (96.5%). From 63 infants with ‘refer’, 40 were tested with auditory brainstem response: in 28 hearing loss was confirmed. Three hundred and nine neonates were screened before postmenstrual age (PMA) of 34 weeks: 78% successfully passed the first test. Sixty‐seven infants with ‘refer’ at the first test before PMA of 34 weeks were re‐evaluated: 48 had normal hearing tests, 24 of whom still younger than 34 weeks. For 12 of 19 infants with ‘refer’ before 34 weeks, follow‐up was available: in 7 hearing loss was confirmed.

Conclusion:  Neonatal hearing screening with AABR can be easily performed by the bedside nurse in the NICU even in premature babies before 34 weeks PMA. A ‘pass’ result can be obtained in almost 80% of them; a ‘refer’ result at that age, however, must be interpreted cautiously, as false ‘refer’ occurred in 5/12 of these infants.
Patterns of weed co‐occurrence at the field and landscape level
Authors: Petit Sandrine , Fried Guillaume
Published: May 2012

Question

Are patterns of weed co‐occurrence structured or random? Do these patterns differ at the field and landscape scales? Are co‐occurrence patterns related to the effect of environmental filters and/or competition?

Location

France.

Methods

Weed communities were surveyed in 3008 4‐m2 plots, i.e. 32 plots per field in 94 winter‐wheat fields located in the same landscape. We estimated patterns of species co‐occurrence (C‐score) at the field and landscape level. Additional characteristics of weed communities (degree of habitat specialization, competitive ability) and sampled fields (within‐field and among‐fields environmental heterogeneity) were used to interpret observed co‐occurrence patterns at both scales.

Results

Non‐randomness was detected in <20% of the fields; these fields were characterized by higher within‐field environmental heterogeneity and contained a higher proportion of competitive species. This subset of fields partly drove the pattern of co‐occurrence of weed species at the landscape scale. After removing this effect, specialist species were found to be aggregated and species that had an intermediate degree of habitat specialization were segregated, despite the lack of marked environmental gradients across the studied landscape.

Conclusions

Patterns of weed co‐occurrence differed at the field and landscape scales. Weeds co‐occurred mostly randomly within fields but were in some instances segregated as a result of environmental heterogeneity and possibly weed–weed competition. At the landscape scale, aggregation of specialist species and segregation of intermediate species are likely to result from variations in crop management among the sampled fields.
Dis‐United Kingdom?
Authors: Jeffery Charlie
Published: May 2012

Devolution has unleashed forces that are pulling the nations of the UK apart, writes Charlie Jeffery. The result is that the fate of the union might be determined by developments in England, not Scotland.
Social justice, free market style
Authors: Tomasi John
Published: May 2012

Challenging orthodoxy on both left and right, political theorist John Tomasi develops a new account of liberal justice – free market fairness – to show how limited government and the material betterment of the poor can be reconciled. In doing so, he asks the left to rethink their attitude towards private economic liberty.
Juncture interview: Theda Skocpol
Authors: Skocpol Theda
Published: May 2012

Theda Skocpol tells Juncture why the upcoming presidential election is set to be one of the most important in US history.
Time for a new progressive alliance
Authors: Curtice John
Published: May 2012

In his new regular column for Juncture, leading British politics expert John Curtice explains why Labour and the Liberal Democrats will need each other come 2015.
Meet China's top public intellectuals
Authors: Jacques Martin
Published: May 2012

With China set to become the world's biggest economy later this decade, Martin Jacques explores the ideas and debates that are shaping the nation's future strategy, both at home and abroad.
Memo to Labour: how to win in 2015
Authors: Montgomerie Tim
Published: May 2012

Leading Tory activist and editor of ConservativeHome Tim Montgomerie offers some friendly political advice to the Labour party.
The next US president's economic in‐tray
Authors: Bernstein Jared
Published: May 2012

Former Obama adviser Jared Bernstein argues that the biggest economic challenge facing the winner of this year's presidential election will be addressing deep structural problems in the US economy.
An Arab Spring south of the Sahara?
Authors: Clark Phil
Published: May 2012

Phil Clark discusses why the Arab Spring has so far failed to spread south of the Sahara – but suggests there are still good reasons why some African leaders should be looking over their shoulder.
Screening and Empirical Kinetic Models of Collagen Extraction from Selected Malaysian Freshwater Fish
Authors: Kiew Peck Loo , Mat Don Mashitah
Published: May 2012

Acid‐soluble collagen (ASC) and pepsin‐soluble collagen (PSC) were extracted from the muscles of selected cultured catfish (hybrid of Clarias gariepinus x Clarias macrocephalus), red tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), black tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), pangasius catfish (Pangasius sutchi), sultan fish (Leptobarbus hoevenii) and labyrinth fish (Trichogaster trichopterus), freshwater fishes that are widely consumed in Malaysia. The extracted yields for the tested species were higher for PSC as compared with ASC. The catfish contained the highest amount of collagen (PSC) at 368.36 ± 12.05 mg collagen/g muscles. A mathematical description of the principle kinetics involved in collagen extraction was attained using four two‐parametric models, namely the power law, parabolic diffusion, Peleg's and Elovich's models. The power law model was found to be the best model capable of predicting the extraction data with R2 = 0.993, P value = 0.033% and root mean square deviation = 2.605%, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Utilization of fish collagen has been favorable over that of mammalian sources, mainly in making more effective use of underutilized resources. The application of acid‐extraction technology to recover and isolate collagen from Malaysian freshwater fish muscles would be able to boost up the commercial values of these cheap and underutilized protein sources while assisting in conservation of these natural resources in Malaysia. Mathematic models proposed in this study were also proven to be successful in governing and describing the kinetics of collagen extraction process.
Judiciaries as crucial actors in Southern regulatory systems: A case study of Indian telecom regulation
Authors: Thiruvengadam Arun K. , Joshi Piyush
Published: May 2012

This article addresses regulatory reforms in the Indian telecommunications sector and emphasizes the role of the Indian judiciary. Our claim is that when confronted with a series of disputes relating to the nascent telecom regulatory landscape, the Supreme Court of India sought to make a constructive contribution to both the actual disputes as well as the overall regulatory framework. Our reading of these cases suggests that in the sphere of telecom, the Supreme Court has been less interested in stamping its own authority on issues, and has instead sought to bolster the authority and legitimacy of the recently constituted telecom regulatory institutions. We seek to draw attention to the role of the Indian judiciary as marking an exceptional feature of evolving regulatory systems in the Global South. Conventional wisdom in the regulatory jurisprudence that has evolved in the Global North suggests that judiciaries should have little or no role to play in regulatory systems. We suggest that to overcome the special challenges that regulatory systems in the Global South confront, more established institutions and actors might have to lend credibility and legitimacy to enable nascent regulatory actors to develop over time. At least in the Indian case, this is one way to understand the Indian judiciary's interventionist actions in the sphere of telecom regulation.
Modification of Ginseng Flavors by Bitter Compounds Found in Chocolate and Coffee
Authors: Sook Chung Hee , Lee Soo‐Yeun
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Ginseng is not widely accepted by U.S. consumers due to its unfamiliar flavors, despite its numerous health benefits. Previous studies have suggested that the bitter compounds in chocolate and coffee may mask the off‐flavors of ginseng. The objectives of this study were to: (1) profile sensory characteristics of ginseng extract solution, caffeine solution, cyclo (L‐Pro‐L‐Val) solution, theobromine solution, and 2 model solutions simulating chocolate bitterness; and (2) determine the changes in the sensory characteristics of ginseng extract solution by the addition of the bitter compounds found in chocolate and coffee. Thirteen solutions were prepared in concentrations similar to the levels of the bitter compounds found in coffee and chocolate products. Twelve panelists participated in a descriptive analysis panel which included time‐intensity ratings. Ginseng extract was characterized as sweeter, starchier, and more green tea than the other sample solutions. Those characteristics of ginseng extract were effectively modified by the addition of caffeine, cyclo (L‐Pro‐L‐Val), and 2 model solutions. A model solution simulating dark chocolate bitterness was the least influenced in intensities of bitterness by the addition of ginseng extract. Results from time‐intensity ratings show that the addition of ginseng extract increased duration time in certain bitterness of the 2 model solutions. Bitter compounds found in dark chocolate could be proposed to effectively mask the unique flavors of ginseng. Future studies blending aroma compounds of chocolate and coffee into such model solutions may be conducted to investigate the influence on the perception of the unique flavors through the congruent flavors.
Gas Chromatographic‐Olfactometric Aroma Profile and Quantitative Analysis of Volatile Carbonyls of Grilled Beef from Different Finishing Feed Systems
Authors: Celia Resconi Virginia , del Mar Campo María , Montossi Fabio , Ferreira Vicente , Sañudo Carlos , Escudero Ana
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  In this study, the important odor impact volatiles generated in the meat of grilled beef loin muscle were characterized. Animals were finished in 4 different diet systems: T1, pasture (a mixture of Medicago sativa, Trifolium repens, and Festuca arundinacea); T2, pasture supplemented with cracked corn grain (offered at 0.6% live weight, LW); T3, pasture supplemented with cracked corn grain (offered at 1.2% LW); and T4, concentrate (pellets with 85% corn and 12.8% sunflower, on a dry‐matter basis) plus alfalfa hay (both ad libitum). Aroma compounds were assessed by dynamic headspace‐solid phase extraction (DHS‐SPE) and gas chromatographic‐olfactometric (GC‐O) analysis. Most odorants were carbonyl compounds, some of them reaching high GC‐O scores, especially 1‐octen‐3‐one, (E)‐2‐octenal, methional, and hexanal. A specific quantitative analysis of ketones and aldehydes was conducted through their derivatization with o‐(2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorobenzyl) hydroxylamine hydrochloride directly on the headspace trap and analyzed by GC‐MS, with the purpose of studying the effect of finishing diet systems. From the 23 carbonyl compounds quantified, 2 were especially affected by the diet system; methional was higher in the treatment based on concentrates, whereas (E,E)‐2,4‐heptadienal was higher in the treatment based only in pastures. The results are discussed considering previous published productive and quality traits.

Practical Application:  The knowledge of how production factors, such as animal feeding, can affect the flavor of meat is of significant interest toward in achieving a high‐quality and differentiated product. The development of more specific and efficient methodologies is necessary to analyze meat aroma compounds, which would be used as routine analysis, that is for product authentication. In the future, the use of this analysis would allow producing and designing specific foods according to different markets.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid Conversion by Six Lactobacillus plantarum Strains Cultured in MRS Broth Supplemented with Sunflower Oil and Soymilk
Authors: Li Haiping , Liu Yong , bao Yan , Liu Xiaoming , Zhang Heping
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  Six strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, isolated from traditional dairy products of minority nationalities, were evaluated for their ability to produce conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) from free linoleic acid in vitro. All the 6 strains were found to be capable of converting linoleic acid to CLA when using sunflower oil as substrate or during soymilk fermentation. The inhibitory effect of linoleic acid on the growth of the L. plantarum was also discussed. The production of CLA was increased with adding high concentration of substrate in sunflower oil and IMAU60042 produced the highest CLA both in sunflower oil and soymilk. The CLA was composted by 2 isomers: cis9, trans11‐CLA and tran10, cis12‐CLA, and cis9, tran s11‐CLA covered the most part of the total CLA formed except for L. plantarum P8. The production of CLA was decreased during the storage of fermented soymilk. The CLA contents decreased significantly in the first week, also more quickly in 2 wk. Especially, tran10, cis12‐CLA decreased more rapidly than cis9, tran11‐CLA. No dramatic change was observed among other 8 fatty acids in soymilk. The proportion of unsaturated fatty acids varied after fermentation with different L. plantrum strains, but all decreased the during storage. The research on the ability of converting CLA of L. plantrum strains could be basis for the future research and development of fermented soymilk products.

Practical Application:  Desirable probiotic traits, such as acid and bile tolerance, aggregation activity, and antibacterial activity, have been proved for the 6 Lactobacillus plantarum strains. The 6 L. plantarum strains might be used in the fermentation of soymilk to produce multifunctional probiotic soymilk products, especially the rich CLA contents.
Volatile Generation in Bell Peppers during Frozen Storage and Thawing Using Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry (SIFT‐MS)
Authors: Wampler Brendan , Barringer Sheryl A.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  To determine volatile formation during storage and thawing, whole, pureed, blanched, and raw green and red bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) were frozen quickly or slowly then stored at –18 °C for up to 7 mo, with and without SnCl2 addition during thawing. Headspace analysis was performed by a Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometer (SIFT‐MS). After blanching, (Z)‐3‐hexenal had a large significant decrease in concentration since it is a heat labile compound while most other volatiles did not change in concentration. The freezing process increased volatile levels in the puree only. Slow freeze peppers had higher levels of some LOX generated volatiles during storage than quick freeze. During frozen storage of blanched samples (E)‐2‐hexenal, (Z and E)‐hexen‐1‐ol, and (E)‐2‐pentenal increased likely because of nonenzymatic autoxidation of fatty acids while other volatiles remained constant. In Raw Whole peppers, (Z)‐3‐hexenal, hexanal, and 2‐pentylfuran were generated during storage likely because the LOX enzyme is still active during frozen storage. However, blanched samples had higher concentrations of (E)‐2‐hexenal, (Z and E)‐hexen‐1‐ol, 1‐penten‐3‐one, and (E)‐2‐heptenal because of enzymatic destruction of these volatiles in the raw samples. The levels of many of the volatiles in the raw samples, including (Z)‐3‐hexenal, (E)‐2‐hexenal, (Z and E)‐hexen‐1‐ol, hexanal, (E)‐2‐pentenal, and 2‐pentylfuran, appeared to peak around 34 d after freezing. Pureed samples had significantly higher levels of volatiles than the whole samples, and volatiles peaked earlier. Green bell pepper volatile levels were always higher than red bell pepper. Significantly higher volatile formation occurred during thawing than it did during frozen storage.

Practical Application:  Studying and monitoring the headspace volatiles with a SIFT‐MS can give information that will help manufacturers better understand how the volatiles in bell peppers change during frozen storage. This will give valuable information to processors on how to minimize volatile changes during storage of frozen peppers.
Commercially Sterilized Mussel Meats (Mytilus chilensis): A Study on Process Yield
Authors: Almonacid S. , Bustamante J. , Simpson R. , Urtubia A. , Pinto M. , Teixeira A.
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  The processing steps most responsible for yield loss in the manufacture of canned mussel meats are the thermal treatments of precooking to remove meats from shells, and thermal processing (retorting) to render the final canned product commercially sterile for long‐term shelf stability. The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the impact of different combinations of process variables on the ultimate drained weight in the final mussel product (Mytilu chilensis), while verifying that any differences found were statistically and economically significant. The process variables selected for this study were precooking time, brine salt concentration, and retort temperature. Results indicated 2 combinations of process variables producing the widest difference in final drained weight, designated best combination and worst combination with 35% and 29% yield, respectively. Significance of this difference was determined by employing a Bootstrap methodology, which assumes an empirical distribution of statistical error. A difference of nearly 6 percentage points in total yield was found. This represents a 20% increase in annual sales from the same quantity of raw material, in addition to increase in yield, the conditions for the best process included a retort process time 65% shorter than that for the worst process, this difference in yield could have significant economic impact, important to the mussel canning industry.
Nondestructive sampling of insect DNA from defensive secretion
Authors: DONALD H. M. , WOOD C. W. , BENOWITZ K. M. , JOHNSON R. A. , BRODIE E. D. , FORMICA V. A.
Published: May 2012

Nondestructive techniques to obtain DNA from organisms can further genetic analyses such as estimating genetic diversity, dispersal and lifetime fitness, without permanently removing individuals from the population or removing body parts. Possible DNA sources for insects include frass, exuviae, and wing and leg clippings. However, these are not feasible approaches for organisms that cannot be removed from their natural environment for long periods or when adverse effects of tissue removal must be avoided. This study evaluated the impacts and efficacy of extracting haemolymph from a defensive secretion to obtain DNA for amplification of microsatellites using a nondestructive technique. A secretion containing haemolymph was obtained from Bolitotherus cornutus (the forked fungus beetle) by perturbation of the defensive gland with a capillary tube. A laboratory experiment demonstrated that the sampling methodology had no impact on mortality, reproductive success or gland expression. To evaluate the quality of DNA obtained in natural samples, haemolymph was collected from 187 individuals in the field and successfully genotyped at nine microsatellite loci for 95.7% of samples. These results indicate that haemolymph‐rich defensive secretions contain DNA and can be sampled without negative impacts on the health or fitness of individual insects.
Systemic analyses of immunophenotypes of peripheral T cells in non‐segmental vitiligo: implication of defective natural killer T cells
Authors: Zhou Li , Li Kai , Shi Yu‐Ling , Hamzavi Iltefat , Gao Tian‐Wen , Henderson Marsha , Huggins Richard H. , Agbai Oma , Mahmoud Bassel , Mi Xiaofan , Lim Henry W. , Mi Qing‐Sheng
Published: May 2012

Although it is widely believed that non‐segmental vitiligo (NSV) results from the autoimmune destruction of melanocytes, a clear understanding of defects in immune tolerance, which mediate this uncontrolled self‐reactivity, is still lacking. In the present study, we systemically evaluated circulating regulatory T (Treg) cells, including CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg cells and invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells, as well as naïve and memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and their cytokine production, in a cohort of 43 progressive NSV patients with race‐, gender‐, and age‐matched healthy controls. We found that the general immunophenotypes of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and the percentage of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Tregs were comparable between NSV and healthy controls. However, percentages of peripheral iNKT cells were significantly decreased in NSV patients compared to that in healthy controls. Our data confirm the previous notion that the percentage of peripheral CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Tregs remains unaltered in NSV and suggests the involvement of defective iNKT cells in the pathogenesis of NSV.
Knowledge and Practices of Pig Farmers Regarding Japanese Encephalitis in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Dhakal S. , Stephen C. , Ale A. , Joshi D. D.
Published: May 2012

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is the single largest cause of viral encephalitis in the world and has been endemic in Nepal since the early 1980s. Since then, it has spread from its origins in lowland plains to the Kathmandu Valley as well as in hill and mountain districts. Pigs are amplifying hosts for the virus. The Nepal government has been encouraging the development of pig farming as a means of poverty alleviation. Whereas other countries have reduced JE through vaccination programmes and improvements in pig husbandry, these options are not economically possible in Nepal. The objective of this study was to examine the occupational risk of pig farmers in Nepal and to determine their level of knowledge and practice of JE prevention techniques. We surveyed 100 randomly selected pig farmers in the Kathmandu District and found that pig farmers were exposed to many JE risk factors including poverty and close proximity to pigs, rice paddy fields and water birds, which are the definitive hosts for the virus. Forty‐two percent of the farmers had heard of JE, 20% associated it with mosquito bites and 7% named pigs as risk factors. Few protective measures were taken. None of the farmers were vaccinated against JE nor were any pigs, despite an ongoing human vaccination campaign. This farming community had little ownership of land and limited education. JE education programmes must consider gender differences in access to public health information as there were an equal number of male and female farmers. We provide findings that can inform future JE education programmes for this vulnerable population.
CD25 Blockade Depletes and Selectively Reprograms Regulatory T Cells in Concert with Immunotherapy in Cancer Patients
Authors: Rech Andrew J. , Mick Rosemarie , Martin Sunil , Recio Adri , Aqui Nicole A. , Powell Daniel J. , Colligon Theresa A. , Trosko Jennifer A. , Leinbach Leah I. , Pletcher Charles H. , Tweed Carol K. , DeMichele Angela , Fox Kevin R. , Domchek Susan M. , Riley James L. , Vonderheide Robert H.
Published: May 2012

CD25 monoclonal antibody therapy rapidly and durably depletes T
regs
in cancer patients through a mechanism consistent with reprogramming.
Drug-Based Optical Agents: Infiltrating Clinics at Lower Risk
Authors: Scheuer Werner , van Dam Gooitzen M. , Dobosz Michael , Schwaiger Markus , Ntziachristos Vasilis
Published: May 2012

Using drugs as optical imaging agents and “microdosing” amounts reduces risk for clinical translation of fluorescence molecular imaging.
Of Bugs and Men: Antibiotics, the Gut Microbiota, and Risk of Developing Allergic Asthma
Authors: Zeki Amir A.
Published: May 2012

Early-life antibiotic use can alter gut microbiota and enhance asthma susceptibility.
Bacteraemia in Malawian neonates and young infants 2002–2007: a retrospective audit
Authors: Gwee Amanda , Coghlan Benjamin , Everett Dean , Chagoma Newton , Phiri Amos , Wilson Lorna , Molyneux Elizabeth
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To assess the causes of bacteraemia in young infants and susceptibility to first-line antibiotics (benzylpenicillin plus gentamicin) at the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH), Malawi during 2002–2007.

Design

Retrospective analysis of demographic and microbiological data using laboratory records.

Setting

QECH is Malawi's largest hospital with 7000 neonates admitted annually, 9% for septicaemia.

Patients

All infants aged 60 days or less admitted to QECH that had a blood culture taken over the 6-year period.

Main outcome measures

6754 blood cultures were taken. 3323 organisms were isolated: one-third were pathogens, two-thirds contaminants. Gram-positive organisms (53%) were more common than gram-negatives (47%). Four organisms made up half of all pathogens:Staphylococcus aureus(15.3%), group B streptococci (13.5%), non-typhoidal salmonellae (12.6%) andEscherichia coli(10.5%). Apart from non-typhoidal salmonellae andStreptococcus pneumoniae, most organisms were more common in the first week of life than later. Overall, 28% of isolates during 2002–2007 were resistant to first-line antibiotic, higher than observed during 1996–2001 (22%). Penicillin susceptibility fluctuated while gram-negative resistance to gentamicin increased from 17% to 27% over the study period.

Conclusions

In the QECH, pathogens causing young infant sepsis are an unusual mix of organisms seen in both developed and developing countries. Resistance to first-line antibiotics is higher than observed in most studies. Ongoing monitoring is needed and clinical outcome data would aid interpretation of findings. A high proportion of blood cultures were contaminated with skin flora—improved training and supervision of phlebotomists are needed to improve the utility of taking blood cultures.
Roles of lactoferrin on skin wound healing1This article is part of Special Issue entitled Lactoferrin and has undergone the Journal's usual peer review process.
Authors: Takayama Yoshiharu , Aoki Reiji
Published: May 2012

Skin wound healing is a complex biological process that requires the regulation of different cell types, including immune cells, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. It consists of 5 stages: hemostasis, inflammation, granulation tissue formation, re-epithelialization, and wound remodeling. While inflammation is essential for successful wound healing, prolonged or excess inflammation can result in nonhealing chronic wounds. Lactoferrin, an iron-binding glycoprotein secreted from glandular epithelial cells into body fluids, promotes skin wound healing by enhancing the initial inflammatory phase. Lactoferrin also exhibits anti-inflammatory activity that neutralizes overabundant immune response. Accumulating evidence suggests that lactoferrin directly promotes both the formation of granulation tissue and re-epithelialization. Lactoferrin stimulates the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and keratinocytes and enhances the synthesis of extracellular matrix components, such as collagen and hyaluronan. In an in vitro model of wound contraction, lactoferrin promoted fibroblast-mediated collagen gel contraction. These observations indicate that lactoferrin supports multiple biological processes involved in wound healing.
Effect of bovine lactoferrin in a therapeutic hamster model of hepatic amoebiasis1This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Lactoferrin and has undergone the Journal's usual peer review process.
Authors: Ordaz-Pichardo Cynthia , León-Sicairos Nidia , Hernández-Ramírez Verónica Ivonne , Talamás-Rohana Patricia , de la Garza Mireya
Published: May 2012

Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amoebiasis, a disease that produces dysentery as a result of the perforation of the large intestine. This parasite often invades other organs, primarily the liver, leading to an amoebic liver abscess (ALA), which can cause death. Metronidazole is the drug of choice for the treatment of ALA; however, it produces toxic side effects in patients. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a glycoprotein of the innate immune response that sequesters iron in the mucosae. Lf possesses immune-regulatory properties, such as antiinflammatory and antioxidant activities. Moreover, the microbicidal activity of apoLf, which lacks bound iron, has been shown. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of bovine Lf (bLf) against ALA in a model of hepatic amoebiasis in hamsters. Interestingly, hamsters treated intragastrically with Lf (2.5 mg/100 g mass) over a period of 8 days showed no clinical signs of disease and ALA was effectively decreased, with only 0.63% detectable lesion, compared with 63% in untreated animals. Furthermore, liver function and blood cells approached normal levels among those receiving bLf treatment. These results suggest that bLf may aid in the therapy of amoebiasis, likely without producing undesirable effects in patients.
Clinical studies of lactoferrin in children1This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Lactoferrin and has undergone the Journal's usual peer review process.
Authors: Ochoa Theresa J. , Pezo Alonso , Cruz Karen , Chea-Woo Elsa , Cleary Thomas G.
Published: May 2012

Much has been learned in recent years about the mechanisms by which breastfeeding improves child health and survival. However, there has been little progress in using these insights to improve pediatric care. The aim of this study was to review all clinical studies of lactoferrin (LF) in children in an effort to determine which interventions may improve pediatric care or require further research. We conducted a systematic and critical review of published literature and found 19 clinical studies that have used human or bovine LF for different outcomes: iron metabolisms and anemia (6 studies), fecal flora (5 studies), enteric infections (3 studies), common pediatric illnesses (1 study), immunomodulation (3 studies), and neonatal sepsis (1 study). Although the efficacies have varied in each trial, the main finding of all published studies is the safety of the intervention. Protection against enteric infections and neonatal sepsis are the most likely biologically relevant activities of LF in children. Future studies on neonatal sepsis should answer critically important questions. If the data from these sepsis studies are proven to be correct, it will profoundly affect the treatment of low birth weight neonates and will aid in the reduction of child mortality worldwide.