bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and platelet activation evaluated by soluble P‐selectin and soluble CD‐40‐ligand in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Lorgis Luc , Amoureux Sebastien , De Maistre Emmanuel , Sicard Pierre , Bejot Yannick , Zeller Marianne , Vergely Catherine , Sequeira‐Le Grand Annabelle , Lagrost Anne‐Cécile , Berchoud Juliane , Cottin Yves , Rochette Luc
Published: November 2009

Little is known about the role of neurotrophins (NT) under adult vascular homeostasis in normal and pathological conditions. The NT family, including nerve growth factor and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are expressed in atherosclerotic vessels. Previous studies demonstrated that plasma BDNF levels were increased in the coronary circulation in patients with unstable angina. However, the role of BDNF during the onset and evolution of unstable angina remains to be elucidated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between BDNF, functional parameters and biological markers associated with inflammatory processes and platelet activation. BDNF serum levels were assessed in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) (n = 20) or stable angina pectoris (SAP) (n = 20) who underwent coronary angiography. Serum levels of IL‐6, MCP1, sVCAM, soluble CD‐40‐ligand (sCD40L) and soluble P‐selectin (sP‐selectin) were measured simultaneously by flux cytometry. Median BDNF levels were higher in the MI than in the SAP group (1730 vs. 877 pg/mL, respectively; P = 0.025). In MI patients, we observed a significant correlation between BDNF and sP‐selectin (r = 0.58, P = 0.023), although we found a non‐significant trend between BDNF and sCD40L (r = +0.35, P = 0.144). By contrast, no such correlation was observed in SAP patients (r = −0.22, P = 0.425). No difference was observed between the two groups regarding baseline demographics, risk factors, biological data and angiographic findings. The study suggests that BDNF serum levels in MI patients could be related to platelet activation and the inflammatory response. Further studies are needed to investigate the role of NT in the setting of acute MI.
Ecosystem Services as a Common Language for Coastal Ecosystem‐Based Management
Authors: GRANEK ELISE F. , POLASKY STEPHEN , KAPPEL CARRIE V. , REED DENISE J. , STOMS DAVID M. , KOCH EVAMARIA W. , KENNEDY CHRIS J. , CRAMER LORI A. , HACKER SALLY D. , BARBIER EDWARD B. , ASWANI SHANKAR , RUCKELSHAUS MARY , PERILLO GERARDO M. E. , SILLIMAN BRIAN R. , MUTHIGA NYAWIRA , BAEL DAVID , WOLANSKI ERIC
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Ecosystem‐based management is logistically and politically challenging because ecosystems are inherently complex and management decisions affect a multitude of groups. Coastal ecosystems, which lie at the interface between marine and terrestrial ecosystems and provide an array of ecosystem services to different groups, aptly illustrate these challenges. Successful ecosystem‐based management of coastal ecosystems requires incorporating scientific information and the knowledge and views of interested parties into the decision‐making process. Estimating the provision of ecosystem services under alternative management schemes offers a systematic way to incorporate biogeophysical and socioeconomic information and the views of individuals and groups in the policy and management process. Employing ecosystem services as a common language to improve the process of ecosystem‐based management presents both benefits and difficulties. Benefits include a transparent method for assessing trade‐offs associated with management alternatives, a common set of facts and common currency on which to base negotiations, and improved communication among groups with competing interests or differing worldviews. Yet challenges to this approach remain, including predicting how human interventions will affect ecosystems, how such changes will affect the provision of ecosystem services, and how changes in service provision will affect the welfare of different groups in society. In a case study from Puget Sound, Washington, we illustrate the potential of applying ecosystem services as a common language for ecosystem‐based management.
Ischaemic sensitivity of axons in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Han S. Eric , Boland Robert A. , Krishnan Arun V. , Vucic Steve , Lin Cindy S.‐Y. , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: November 2009

Although carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common human entrapment neuropathy characterized by paraesthesiae and numbness with nocturnal exacerbation, the mechanisms underlying the generation of these symptoms remain unclear. Consequently, the aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between changes in axonal excitability and the development of neurological symptoms in response to an ischaemic insult in CTS patients. Sensory and motor excitability were measured in 10 CTS patients and compared with 10 healthy controls, with participants asked to report symptom generation and intensity during the development of limb ischaemia. To induce ischaemia, a sphygmomanometer was inflated above the elbow and maintained at 200 mmHg for 10 min. During ischaemia there were decreases in axonal threshold, with less overall reduction in CTS patients when compared with controls. Associated with these differences in threshold, both sensory (p < 0.001) and motor (p < 0.05) refractoriness increased dramatically in CTS patients. This prominent increase in refractoriness was accompanied by a significant reduction in compound sensory action potentials and compound motor action potentials amplitudes for CTS patients when compared with controls (p < 0.05). These changes in axonal excitability resulted in a higher intensity of numbness and paraesthesiae reported by CTS patients during ischaemia. The present study has established differences in the nerve excitability and symptom development during ischaemia for patients with mild and moderate CTS, and may suggest that axons in the median nerve of CTS patients have an altered functional capacity to respond to an ischaemic insult, further contributing to nocturnal exacerbation of their symptoms.
Blood groups: the past 50 years
Authors: Daniels Geoff , Reid Marion E.
Published: November 2009

Since the first issue of TRANSFUSION in 1961, there has been a tremendous expansion in not only the number of blood group antigens identified but also in our knowledge of their biochemical basis, function, and more recently, associated DNA changes. As certain techniques became available, our ability to discover and elucidate blood group antigens and appreciate their contribution to biology became possible. In particular, Western blotting, monoclonal antibodies, cloning, and polymerase chain reaction–based assays have led to an explosion of our knowledge base. The study of blood groups has had a significant effect on human genetics where they serve as useful markers in genetic linkage analyses. Indeed blood groups have provided several “firsts” in certain aspects of genetics. Blood group–null phenotypes, as natural human knockouts, have provided valuable insights into the importance of red blood cell membrane components. This review summarizes key aspects of the discovery of blood groups; the inconsistent terminology that has arisen; and the contribution of blood groups to genetics, safe transfusion, transplantation, evolution, and biology.
TRANSFUSION PRACTICE: sHLA‐I contaminating molecules as novel mechanism of ex vivo/in vitro transcriptional and posttranscriptional modulation of transforming growth factor‐β1 in CD8+ T lymphocytes and neutrophils after intravenous immunoglobulin treatment
Authors: Ghio Massimo , Contini Paola , Negrini Simone , Proietti Michele , Gonella Roberta , Ubezio Gianluca , Ottonello Luciano , Indiveri Francesco
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: Numerous mechanisms have been proposed to explain the beneficial action of intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) in autoimmune and systemic inflammatory disorders. Among others' data, an in vitro increase of intracellular TGF‐β expression when culturing CD4+ T lymphocytes in the presence of IVIG has been reported. As IVIG infusion involves administration of soluble contaminants likewise all hemoderivative preparations, we hypothesized that, besides several other immunomodulatory proposed mechanisms, the clinical effects of IVIG therapy might be, at least partly, due to contaminating soluble HLA Class I (sHLA‐I) molecules capable to exert pleiotropic immunomodulatory effects among which TGF‐β1 modulation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Ex vivo and in vitro transcriptional and posttranscriptional modulation of TGF‐β1 in CD8+ T lymphocytes and neutrophils after IVIG infusion was analyzed.

RESULTS: Ex vivo analysis of cells drawn from 10 enrolled IVIG recipients pointed out a significant increase of TGF‐β1 mRNA and intracellular TGF‐β1 molecules in both leukotypes. In vitro comparable results were obtained incubating CD8+ T lymphocytes and neutrophils from healthy donors with IVIG. The immunodepletion of sHLA‐I and/or soluble Fas ligand (sFasL) abolished TGF‐β1 modulation in both leukotypes. Coculture with human immunoglobulin (Ig)M monoclonal antibody or chimeric IgG (MabThera, Roche), whose manufacturing excludes “contamination,” did not exert any mRNA modulation. Finally, IgM or MabThera plus purified sHLA‐I molecules enhanced TGF‐β1 mRNA in both white blood cells to levels comparable to those obtained with IVIG incubation.

CONCLUSION: On the whole, these data lead us to speculate that the ability of IVIG administration to modulate TGF‐β1 might be related to the immunomodulatory activities of sHLA‐I and sFasL molecules on activated CD8+ T lymphocytes and neutrophils.
A novel herpesvirus in the sanctuary chimpanzees on Ngamba Island in Uganda
Authors: Mugisha L. , Leendertz F.H. , Opuda‐Asibo J. , Olobo J.O. , Ehlers B.
Published: November 2009

Background  Recent studies in non‐human primates have led to the discovery of novel primate herpesviruses. In order to get more information on herpesvirus infections in apes, we studied wild born captive chimpanzees.

Methods  Chimpanzees of the Ngamba island sanctuary, Uganda, were analyzed with pan‐herpes polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the herpesvirus DNA polymerase gene and the glycoprotein B gene. The obtained sequences were connected by long‐distance PCR, and analyzed phylogenetically.

Results  Twenty‐one of 40 individuals were infected with members of the Gammaherpesvirinae, two of them with a novel member of this subfamily. Phylogenetically, the novel virus fell into a clade of primate rhadinoviruses and the Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (human herpesvirus 8), representing a third distinct rhadinovirus in chimpanzees.

Conclusion  Non‐human primates harbor several herpesviruses many of which are still unknown. This has implications to management of primates in sanctuaries requiring continuous updates on the management protocols to deal with potential occupational pathogens.
Expression of chondromodulin‐1 in the temporomandibular joint condylar cartilage and disc
Authors: Fang Wei , Friis Thor Einar , Long Xing , Xiao Yin
Published: November 2009

J Oral Pathol Med (2010) 39: 356–360

Background:  The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) cartilage consists of condylar cartilage and disc and undergoes continuous remodeling throughout post‐natal life. To maintain the integrity of the TMJ cartilage, anti‐angiogenic factors play an important role during the remodeling process. In this study, we investigated the expression of the anti‐angiogenic factor, chondromodulin‐1 (ChM‐1), in TMJ cartilage and evaluate its potential role in TMJ remodeling.

Methods:  Eight TMJ specimens were collected from six 4‐month‐old Japanese white rabbits. Safranin‐O staining was performed to determine proteoglycan content. ChM‐1 expression in TMJ condylar cartilage and disc was determined by immunohistochemistry. Three human perforated disc tissue samples were collected for investigation of ChM‐1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) distribution in perforated TMJ disc.

Results:  Safranin‐O stained weakly in TMJ compared with tibial articular and epiphyseal cartilage. In TMJ, ChM‐1 was expressed in the proliferative and hypertrophic zone of condylar cartilage and chondrocyte‐like cells in the disc. No expression of ChM‐1 was observed in osteoblasts and subchondral bone. ChM‐1 and VEGF were both similarly expressed in perforated disc tissues.

Conclusions:  ChM‐1 may play a role in the regulation of TMJ remodeling by preventing blood vessel invasion of the cartilage, thereby maintaining condylar cartilage and disc integrity.
Eosinophilic fascitis: a report of two cases treated with ultraviolet A1 phototherapy
Authors: Silny Wojciech , Osmola‐Mankowska Agnieszka , Czarnecka‐Operacz Magdalena , Żaba Ryszard , Danczak‐Pazdrowska Aleksandra , Marciniak Adrianna
Published: November 2009

Eosinophilic fascitis (EF) (synonyms: Shulman's syndrome, diffuse fascitis with eosinophilia) is a disease characterized by a complex set of symptoms with scleroderma‐like skin lesions, the absence of Raynaud's phenomenon and other non‐mandatory symptoms including eosinophilia, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hypergammaglobulinemia and high levels of circulating immune complexes. EF is probably not a separate disease entity, but an acute variant of localized scleroderma. This rare disease of unknown etiology is usually seen in middle‐aged adults. Sclerodermiform indurations without Raynaud's symptoms develop rapidly usually on the extremities and more rarely on the trunk or the face. The skin becomes hard, tightly bound to the underlying structures, so that contractures can develop in as little as a few weeks. The course of the disease is usually chronic but spontaneous remission is possible. Standard therapy includes high doses of corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs such as methotrexate, cyclosporin A, cyclophosphamide or azathioprine and others such as psoralen and ultraviolet A radiation.
Neuromuscular fatigue differs following unilateral vs bilateral sustained submaximal contractions
Authors: Matkowski B. , Place N. , Martin A. , Lepers R.
Published: November 2009

The purpose of the present study was to compare the mechanisms of fatigue induced by a unilateral vs a bilateral submaximal isometric knee extension. Ten physically active men completed two experimental sessions, randomly presented. They were asked to maintain an isometric knee extension force corresponding to 20% of the maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) until task failure with one leg (unilateral) vs two legs (bilateral). MVCs were performed before and after the sustained contraction. Transcutaneous electrical stimuli were used to examine central (voluntary activation) and peripheral (peak doublet force at rest) fatigue on the exercised leg. Time to task failure was significantly shorter (P<0.05) for the bilateral (245±76 s) compared with the unilateral task (295±85 s). Unilateral MVC force and maximal voluntary activation losses were significantly greater (P<0.05) after the unilateral task than after the bilateral task. Peak doublet force was significantly reduced (P<0.01) after the unilateral task, but not after the bilateral task. The present results demonstrated that time to task failure of a submaximal fatiguing contraction may depend on the number of limbs involved in the task. The greater time to task failure with one leg may have induced greater contractile alterations and a larger MVC loss following the unilateral task.
Self‐admitted behavior and perceived use of performance‐enhancing vs psychoactive drugs among competitive athletes
Authors: Uvacsek M. , Nepusz T. , Naughton D. P. , Mazanov J. , Ránky M. Zs. , Petróczi A.
Published: November 2009

The relationships between projected use, self‐reported behavior and attitudes to performance‐enhancing (PED) and recreational (RD) drugs were investigated among 82 competitive Hungarian athletes, with 14.6% admitting using PED and 31.7% using RD. Both the observed doping estimations (even those made by non‐users) and self‐admitted use were considerably higher than the average rate of positive doping tests (2% of all tests). The notable overestimation by PED users (34.6% vs 16.9%) was in keeping with the false consensus effect. A prediction model with attitude and projection to the likelihood of PED use suggested at least a 70% chance of self‐involvement of athletes, with responses at or above the median scores (Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale≥60 and estimation≥50%) on the two independent measures. Users overestimated the prevalence of doping in their sport (P=0.007) but not RD use, with the converse holding for RD users' views of doping (P=0.029). PED users also showed a significantly more lenient attitude toward doping (P<0.001). This domain‐specific characteristic adds new information to the ongoing research effort in understanding drug‐doping co‐morbidity. The reasons for elevated in‐group projection are discussed, along with the potential application of this phenomenon in doping epidemiology studies.
Kinematic classification of iliotibial band syndrome in runners
Authors: Grau S. , Krauss I. , Maiwald C. , Axmann D. , Horstmann T. , Best R.
Published: November 2009

Several inconsistent causative biomechanical factors are considered to be crucial in the occurrence of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS). The focus of this study was on assessing differences in the kinematic characteristics between healthy runners [control group (CO)] and runners with ITBS in order to recommend treatment strategies to deal with this injury. Three‐dimensional kinematics of barefoot running was used in the biomechanical setup. Both groups were matched with respect to gender, height and weight. After determining drop outs, the final population comprised 36 subjects (26 male and 10 female): 18 CO and 18 ITBS (13 male and five female, each). Kinematic evaluations indicate less hip adduction and frontal range of motion at the hip joint in runners with ITBS. Furthermore, maximum hip flexion velocity and maximum knee flexion velocity were lower in runners with ITBS. Lack of joint coordination, expressed as earlier hip flexion and a tendency toward earlier knee flexion, was found to be another discriminating variable in subjects with ITBS compared with CO subjects. We assume that an increase in range of motion at the hip joint, stretching of the hip abductors, as well as stretching the hamstrings, calf muscles and hip flexors will help treat ITBS.
Tanshinone II A Induces Apoptosis and S Phase Cell Cycle Arrest in Activated Rat Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Che Xian‐Hua , Park Eun‐Jeon , Zhao Yu‐Zhe , Kim Woong‐Hyun , Sohn Dong Hwan
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Tanshinone IIA, a major component extracted from the traditional herbal medicine, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, improves blood circulation and treats chronic hepatitis and hepatic fibrosis. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is the predominant event in liver fibrosis. The therapeutic goal in liver fibrosis is the reversal of fibrosis and selective clearance of activated HSCs. We used rat HSCs transformed by Simian virus 40 (t‐HSC/Cl‐6) to overcome the limitations inherent in studying subcultures of HSCs. Treatment of t‐HSC/Cl‐6 cells with tanshinone IIA inhibited cell viability in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Tanshinone IIA induced apoptosis as demonstrated by DNA fragmentation, poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase and caspase‐3 cleavage, increased Bax/Bcl‐2 protein ratio, and depolarization of mitochondrial membranes to facilitate cytochrome c release into the cytosol. Furthermore, this compound markedly induced S phase cell cycle arrest, and down‐regulated cyclins A and E, and cdk2. Thus, tanshinone IIA induces apoptosis and S phase cell cycle arrest in rat HSCs in vitro.
Vanishing Bile Duct Syndrome Associated with Azithromycin in a 62‐Year‐Old Man
Authors: Danica Juricic , Irena Hrstic , Davor Radic , Mate Skegro , Marijana Coric , Boris Vucelic , Igor Francetic
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Vanishing bile duct syndrome is a severe cholestatic disease associated with toxic effects of medications. Stevens‐Johnson syndrome is a hypersensitivity disorder that may also be caused by medications. We present a case of a 62‐year‐old male patient who developed vanishing bile duct syndrome a month after Stevens‐Johnson syndrome. These adverse drug reactions were associated with the use of azithromycin (500 mg daily for 3 days). The patient was initially treated for Stevens‐Johnson syndrome with steroids, antihistamines and proton pump inhibitors and fully recovered. However, a month after the beginning of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome, he developed vanishing bile duct syndrome and was treated with steroids, ursodeoxycholic acid, antihistamines and tacrolimus. Unfortunately, the treatment was unsuccessful and he was listed for liver transplantation which was performed 7 months after the beginning of jaundice. This is the first case of vanishing bile duct syndrome associated with the use of azithromycin and one of few that reports vanishing bile duct syndrome and Stevens‐Johnson syndrome co‐occurrence.
Cardiovascular Effects of Azelnidipine in Comparison with Those of Amlodipine Assessed in the Halothane‐Anaesthetized Dog
Authors: Ishizaka Tomomichi , Takahara Akira , Iwasaki Hiroshi , Mitsumori Yoshitaka , Kise Hiroaki , Nakamura Yuji , Sugiyama Atsushi
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Azelnidipine is a new dihydropyridine Ca2+ channel blocker with long plasma half‐life. To understand the in vivo cardiovascular profile of azelnidipine, it was assessed in the halothane‐anaesthetized, closed‐chest canine model and compared with the effect of amlodipine. We administered azelnidipine in doses of 10, 20 and 70 μg/kg, i.v. or amlodipine in doses of 30, 70 and 200 μg/kg, i.v. cumulatively to the animals. The hypotensive effects of azelnidipine and amlodipine were slow in onset and long‐lasted, while their extents of dose‐related hypotensive effects were similar. Azelnidipine hardly affected the heart rate or plasma noradrenaline concentration at any doses, whereas the high dose of amlodipine increased these parameters. Azelnidipine as well as amlodipine tended to increase the ventricular contraction, which did not achieve statistical significance. During autonomic receptor blockade with atropine and propranolol, neither drug affected the heart rate, ventricular contraction or plasma noradrenaline concentration, although a more significant hypotensive action was observed. These results indicate that azelnidipine and amlodipine do not directly affect cardiac function. Amlodipine may induce sinus tachycardia via reflex‐mediated increase in sympathetic tone. Such lack of reflex tachycardia with azelnidipine will provide potential therapeutic strategy for treatment of patients with cardiovascular diseases, being more beneficial than amlodipine.
THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM: LABOR MARKET INFLUENCES ON CEO COMPENSATION
Authors: FULMER INGRID SMITHEY
Published: November 2009

Although the “war for talent” at the executive level should theoretically have implications for executive pay, labor market competition and CEO career considerations have not been the focus of much executive compensation research to date. In this study, I utilize a multitheoretical perspective to examine the determinants of CEO annual compensation, with particular attention to external labor market factors and also to executive characteristics (e.g., experience and performance trajectory) that are conventionally believed to increase the labor market attractiveness (and alternative employment opportunities) of CEOs. In a sample of publicly traded firms, I find that these labor market‐related factors and characteristics explain additional variance in annual pay beyond that predicted by firm size, annual performance, board composition, risk, and measures of CEO power, and that the variance explained by labor market variables is of a magnitude comparable to that explained by many of these more commonly studied variables. Results are consistent with the idea that corporate boards design CEO pay with retention concerns in mind: Total pay and stock option grant levels are strongly influenced by competitors’ pay levels, and CEOs who are especially likely to be “raided” receive higher pay in some cases and, in other cases, have less risky (weaker) annual firm performance–pay relationships.
The SLS Centenary Lecture: Punching our weight? Legal scholarship and public understanding
Authors: Twining William
Published: November 2009

Law has the potential to be one of the humanistic disciplines that is an integral part of general culture. But it is not usually perceived in that way by non-lawyers. As the Society of Legal Scholars celebrates its Centenary, its members are under pressure to broaden the audiences of legal scholarship. Setting this expectation in the context of the movement to encourage all academic disciplines to place greater emphasis on ‘public understanding’ and ‘public engagement’, this lecture considers the what, why and how of confronting this challenge, recognises some obstacles and constraints, and suggests how the Society, law schools and law publishers might contribute to this enterprise.
Vasopressin Synthesis by the Magnocellular Neurons is Different in the Supraoptic Nucleus and in the Paraventricular Nucleus in Human and Experimental Septic Shock
Authors: Sonneville Romain , Guidoux Céline , Barrett Lucinda , Viltart Odile , Mattot Virginie , Polito Andrea , Siami Shidasp , De La Grandmaison Geoffroy Lorin , Blanchard Anne , Singer Mervyn , Annane Djillali , Gray Françoise , Brouland Jean‐Philippe , Sharshar Tarek
Published: November 2009

Impaired arginine vasopressin (AVP) synthesis and release by the neurohypophyseal system, which includes the neurohypophysis and magnocellular neurons of the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei, have been postulated in septic shock, but changes in this system have never been assessed in human septic shock, and only partially experimentally. We investigated AVP synthesis and release by the neurohypophyseal system in 9 patients who died from septic shock and 10 controls, and in 20 rats with fecal peritonitis‐induced sepsis and 8 sham‐operation controls. Ten rats died spontaneously from septic shock, and the others were sacrificed. In patients with septic shock, as in rats that died spontaneously following sepsis induction, AVP immunohistochemical expression was decreased in the neurohypophysis and supraoptic magnocellular neurons, whereas it was increased in the paraventricular magnocellular neurons. No significant change was observed in AVP messenger RiboNucleic Acid (mRNA) expression assessed by in situ hybridization in either paraventricular or supraoptic magnocellular cells. This study shows that both in human and experimental septic shock, AVP posttranscriptional synthesis and transport are differently modified in the magnocellular neurons of the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei. This may account for the inappropriate AVP release in septic shock and suggests that distinct pathogenic mechanisms operate in these nuclei.
Effect of Dehydration on Raspberries: Polyphenol and Anthocyanin Retention, Antioxidant Capacity, and Antiadipogenic Activity
Authors: Mejia‐Meza E.I. , Yáñez J.A. , Remsberg C.M. , Takemoto J.K. , Davies N.M. , Rasco B. , Clary C.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Fresh and dried raspberries prepared by freeze drying (FD), microwave‐vacuum (MIVAC), hot‐air drying (HAD), and a combination of hot‐air drying and microwave‐vacuum (HAD/MIVAC) drying methods were evaluated for polyphenol retention, total polyphenol and anthocyanin contents, total antioxidant capacity, and antiadipogenic activity (the inhibition of fat cell development). Ellagic acid and quercetin were present in the largest concentrations in fresh and dehydrated raspberries. Dehydration led to a loss of polyphenols and anthocyanins and antioxidant capacity. Polyphenols (aglycone form) were retained in the greatest amount: 20% (freeze dried) to 30% (HAD/MIVAC) (fresh = 100%). A total of 30% of polyphenols (glycoside form) were retained in raspberries dried by the HAD/MIVAC methods with 5% of retention observed for raspberries dried by FD, HAD, or MIVAC. FD and MIVAC resulted in higher retention of anthocyanins (aglycone form) than other drying methods. It was also observed that antioxidant activity was reduced by dehydration. Adipogenesis was inhibited by polyphenolic glycosides (30%) and aglycones (30% to 40%) in fresh and HAD/MIVAC raspberries. Extracts from dried raspberries by HAD/MIVAC methods were relatively more effective at inhibiting adipogenesis compared to HAD and FD dried raspberries.
Rheological and Functional Properties of Catfish Skin Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Yin Huaixia , Pu Jianing , Wan Yuting , Xiang Bob , Bechtel Peter J. , Sathivel Subramaniam
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Catfish skin is an abundant and underutilized resource that can be used as a unique protein source to make fish skin protein hydrolysates. The objectives of this study were to isolate soluble and insoluble proteins from hydrolyzed catfish skin, study the rheological and functional properties of the protein hydrolysates, and evaluate the properties of emulsions made from the protein powders. Freeze‐dried catfish skin soluble (CSSH) and insoluble hydrolysate (CSISH) powders were analyzed for proximate analysis, emulsion stability, fat absorption, amino acids, color, and rheological properties. CSSH had significantly (P < 0.05) higher protein, ash, and moisture content but lower fat content than that of CSISH. The yield of CSSH (21.5%± 2.2%) was higher than that of CSISH (3%± 0.3%). CSISH had higher emulsion stability than CSSH. CSSH was light yellow in color and CSISH was darker. The mean flow index values for emulsion containing CSSH (ECSSH) and CSISH (ECSISH) were both less than 1, indicating that they were both pseudoplastic fluid. The G′ and G″ values for the ECSISH were higher than that of ECSSH, indicating that the viscoelastic characteristic of the emulsion containing CSISH was greater than that of the emulsion containing CSSH. The study demonstrated the CSSH and CSISH had good functional and rheological properties. They have potential uses as functional food ingredients.
Nanocellulose Reinforced Chitosan Composite Films as Affected by Nanofiller Loading and Plasticizer Content
Authors: Azeredo Henriette M.C. , Mattoso Luiz Henrique C. , Avena‐Bustillos Roberto J. , Filho Gino Ceotto , Munford Maximiliano L. , Wood Delilah , McHugh Tara H.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Chitosan is a biopolymer obtained by N‐deacetylation of chitin, produced from shellfish waste, which may be employed to elaborate edible films or coatings to enhance shelf life of food products. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of nanofiller (cellulose nanofibers, CNF) and plasticizer (glycerol) on tensile properties (tensile strength—TS, elongation at break—EB, and Young's modulus—YM), water vapor permeability (WVP), and glass transition temperature (Tg) of chitosan edible films, and to establish a formulation to optimize their properties. The experiment was conducted according to a central composite design, with 2 variables: CNF (0 to 20 g/100 g) and glycerol (0 to 30 g/100 g) concentrations in the film (on a dry basis), which was produced by the so‐called casting technique. Most responses (except by EB) were favored by high CNF concentrations and low glycerol contents. The optimization was based on maximizing TS, YM, and Tg, and decreasing WVP, while maintaining a minimum acceptable EB of 10%. The optimum conditions were defined as: glycerol concentration, 18 g/100 g; and CNF concentration, 15 g/100 g. AFM imaging of films suggested good dispersion of the CNF and good CNF‐matrix interactions, which explains the good performance of the nanocomposite films.

Practical Application: Chitosan is a biodegradable polymer which may be used to elaborate edible films or coatings to enhance shelf life of foods. This study demonstrates how cellulose nanofibers (CNF) can improve the mechanical and water vapor barrier properties of chitosan films. A nanocomposite film with 15% CNF and plasticized with 18% glycerol was comparable to some synthetic polymers in terms of strength and stiffness, but with poorer elongation and water vapor barrier, indicating that they can be used for applications that do not require high flexibility and/or water vapor barrier. The more important advantage of such films when compared to synthetic polymer films is their environmentally friendly properties.
Effect of Cooking Method (Baking Compared with Frying) on Acrylamide Level of Potato Chips
Authors: Palazoğlu T. Koray , Savran Derya , Gökmen Vural
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  The effect of cooking method (baking compared with frying) on acrylamide level of potato chips was investigated in this study. Baking and frying experiments were conducted at 170, 180, and 190 °C using potato slices with a thickness of 1.4 mm. Raw potatoes were analyzed for reducing sugars and asparagine. Surface and internal temperatures of potato slices were monitored during the experiments to better explain the results. Fried and baked chips were analyzed for acrylamide content using an LC‐MS method. The results showed that acrylamide level of potato chips prepared by frying increased with frying temperature (19.6 ng/g at 170 °C, 39 ng/g at 180 °C, and 95 ng/g at 190 °C). In baking, however, the highest acrylamide level was observed in potato chips prepared at 170 °C (47.8 ng/g at 170 °C, 19.3 ng/g at 180 °C, and 29.7 ng/g at 190 °C). The results showed that baking at 170 °C more than doubled the acrylamide amount that formed upon frying at the same temperature, whereas at 180 and 190 °C, the acrylamide levels of chips prepared by baking were lower than their fried counterparts.
Optical and X‐ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy Studies of Bone and Teeth in Newborn Rats After Maternal Treatment with Indinavir
Authors: Drzazga Zofia , Michalik Katarzyna , Maciejewska Karina , Kaszuba Michał , Nowińska Barbara , Trzeciak Hanna
Published: November 2009

An experiment estimating influence of antiviral drug indinavir treatment during pregnancy on bones and teeth development in newborn rats was performed. Two different fluorescence noninvasive spectroscopy techniques, i.e. laser (407 nm)‐induced fluorescence method to characterize the organic fluorescent molecules and X‐ray fluorescence analysis to determine mineral components were used to study the surface response of femur, mandible and incisor during their formation in the first month of a rat’s life. Differences in autofluorescence depending on the form of the bone were observed on the basis of the emission from enamel in 7‐, 14‐ and 28‐day‐old newborn rats. The dependence between decrease in intensity of fluorescence and increase in mineralization with age in newborn rats was observed. An enhancement of the autofluorescence and a decrease in the concentration of Ca as a main element, as well as disturbances in the concentration of Zn as trace element were observed for bone as well as teeth in newborns during the first month of their life after maternal administration of indinavir (500 mg kg−1 P.O.) in comparison with the control group. The results indicate that indinavir causes a delay in development of the skeleton and teeth in newborn rats.
Examination of Solar Simulators Used for the Determination of Sunscreen UVA Efficacy
Authors: Sayre Robert M. , Dowdy John C.
Published: November 2009

The U.S. FDA recently proposed both in vivo and in vitro UVA efficacy tests for sunscreen products with the lower result used to establish the sunscreen’s labeled UVA protection claim. The FDA stated their rationale for dual tests was concern that the in vivo test method overemphasizes UVA‐2 (320–340 nm) photoprotection. We attribute FDA’s observation to the relative lack, compared to sunlight, of UVA‐1 (340–400 nm) radiation in the current JCIA UVA solar simulator specification, allowing the method to generate higher UVA protection factors than sunscreens will provide in sunlight. Our work is based upon comparisons of Air Mass 1.0 sunlight to variously filtered UVA solar simulators. Sources near the JCIA UVA‐2/UVA limits (8–20%) had a goodness of fit to solar UVA of only 67–79%. We propose that instead of using ratios of UVA‐2 to UVA the standard should be a goodness of fit to the UVA region of an Air Mass 1 solar reference spectrum. As the spectral distribution of solar UVA varies much less than UVB, sunlight of reasonable zenith angles of ≤60° will have similar spectral shapes and approximate risk spectrum. Goodness of fit to this spectrum will produce UVA protection values predictive to those actually achieved in sunlight of different zenith angles.
Simultaneous Determination of Fluorine, Chlorine, Bromine and Iodine in Six Geochemical Reference Materials Using Pyrohydrolysis, Ion Chromatography and Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Balcone‐Boissard Hélène , Michel Agnès , Villemant Benoît
Published: November 2009

Concentrations of halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine) were determined in six geochemical reference materials (BHVO‐2, GS‐N, JG‐1, JR‐1, JB‐1b, JB‐2). Halogens were first extracted from powdered samples using a pyrohydrolysis technique, then hydrolysis solutions were analysed by ion chromatography for F and Cl and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry for Br and I. The detection limits in solutions were 100 μg l−1 for both F and Cl and 10 ng l−1 for Br and I. Considering the extraction procedure, performed on a maximum of 500 mg of sample and producing 100 ml of pyrohydrolysis solution, detection limits in rock samples were 20 mg kg−1 for F and Cl and 2 μg kg−1 for Br and I. The mean analytical errors on the studied composition ranges were estimated at 10 mg kg−1 for F and Cl, 100 μg kg−1 for Br and 25 μg kg−1 for I. The concentration values, based on repeated (generally > 10) sample analysis, were in good agreement generally with published values and narrowed the mean dispersion around mean values. Large dispersions are discussed in terms of samples heterogeneity and contaminations during sample preparation. Basaltic RMs were found to be more suitable for studies of halogen compositions than differentiated rock material, especially granites – the powders of which were heterogeneous in halogens at the 500 mg level.
Les spectateurs dans la lorgnette des anecdotiers: fait divers ou fait théâtral?
Authors: CHAOUCHE SABINE
Published: November 2009

This article examines the relationship between audiences and actors during performances in eighteenth‐century France, and analyses different forms of social behaviours and attitudes that manifested themselves in the auditorium (e.g. unanticipated responses to onstage events, jokes made by audience members, physical interventions in the performances and so on). It examines such questions as: How did members of the audience ‘play a part’ in the performance? Can one speak of a rivalry between the stage and the auditorium? Was more than one performance being played out? Prompted by Ervin Goffman's The Presentation of the Self in Everyday Life, the article aims to define the sociology of early modern performances and identify various ways in which the audience ‘staged themselves’. Based on a close reading of a number of eighteenth‐century theatrical anecdotes, it demonstrates that the various and unexpected events which occurred, not infrequently, created what we might call a hybrid spectacle, that is to say a very particular form of theatricality.
A randomized, 36‐month, post‐marketing efficacy and tolerability study in Sweden and Finland of latanoprost versus non‐prostaglandin therapy in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension
Authors: Friström Björn , Uusitalo Hannu
Published: November 2009

Purpose:  To compare the effect of time on therapy, efficacy, tolerability and resource utilization of latanoprost or non‐prostaglandin analogues (non‐PGs) in patients who required a change in intraocular pressure (IOP)‐lowering monotherapy.

Methods:  This open‐label, multicentre study (Sweden, 19 sites; Finland, seven sites) included adults with glaucoma or ocular hypertension with mean diurnal IOP ≥ 21 mmHg on ocular hypotensive monotherapy. Patients were randomized to latanoprost monotherapy or non‐PG therapy (commercially available therapy other than a PG) and followed for 36 months. End‐points included: time to treatment failure (baseline to visit with a change in/addition to treatment); diurnal IOP (mean of 08.00, 12.00 and 16:00 hr measurements) at months 6, 12, 24 and 36; tolerability; and resource utilization, where analyses used Swedish and Finnish 2006 unit costs.

Results:  Three hundred and twenty‐six patients received ≥ 1 dose of latanoprost (n = 162) or non‐PGs (n = 164). Median time to treatment failure was longer for latanoprost (36 months) than for non‐PGs (12 months; p < 0.001); 51% and 24% of patients remained on randomized therapy after 36 months, respectively (p < 0.001). Decreases in mean diurnal IOP from baseline were significantly greater for latanoprost than for non‐PGs at months 6 and 12 (p < 0.01). No serious adverse events were judged to be treatment‐related. Mean total 36‐month direct costs were similar in patients initiated with latanoprost and non‐PGs.

Conclusion:  Patients who failed previous monotherapy remained on therapy longer when switched to latanoprost. Latanoprost’s IOP‐reducing effect and tolerability were sustained over the long term. Resource utilization and costs were generally similar in those initiating latanoprost or non‐PG therapy.
Ability of Amiodarone and Propranolol Alone or in Combination to Prevent Post‐coronary Bypass Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kojuri Javad , Mahmoodi Yadollah , Jannati Mansoor , Shafa Masih , Ghazinoor Mohammad , Sharifkazemi Mahammad Bagher
Published: November 2009

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the best prophylaxis for AF prior to CABG. In this double‐blind randomized study, 240 consecutive patients underwent elective CABG. They were then divided randomly into three groups to receive propranolol (n = 80), amiodarone (n = 80), or both drugs (n = 80). All groups received their medications from preoperative day 7 to post‐CABG day 5. The patients were well matched for age, sex, risk factors, comorbidities, ejection fraction, and cardioplegic technique. Post‐CABG AF developed in 22 patients (9.2%) of whom 13 (16.3%) had received propranolol, 5 (6.3%) had received amiodarone, and 4 (5%) had received both drugs. The difference between the propranolol group and the other two groups was statistically significant (P= 0.02), but that between the amiodarone and amiodarone + propranolol group was not significant. Age was a significant predictor of post‐CABG AF (P= 0.034). Other factors such as diabetes, sex, hyperlipidemia, smoking, hypertension, family history, cerebrovascular accidents, left atrial size, and ejection fraction were not significant predictors of post‐CABG AF. Preoperative amiodarone or amiodarone with propranolol were more effective than propranolol in reducing the frequency of AF. There was a strong relationship between age and the development of AF. (Clinicaltrial.gov registration NCT00654290.)
OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON MAKERS OF CARDIOVASCULAR RISK IN RENAL PATIENT: CONVENTIONAL HEMODIALYSIS VS. HAEMOFILTRATION ONLINE
Authors: Melero‐Rubio Esperanza , Párraga‐Díaz Mateo , Gómez‐Sánchez M. Paz , Pellicer‐Villaescusa Silvia , Merchán‐Mayado Esteban
Published: November 2009

Homocysteine is considered as independent predictor of cardiovascular risk. Patients treated with haemodialysis (HD) exhibit elevated homocysteine levels, even four times higher than the general population does.

This study focuses on the determination of the vascular risk in patients treated with conventional HD and haemodiafiltration on‐line (HDF). It was also considered important to determine whether there was a relationship between homocysteine and the variables given to the patient such as dialysis dose, obesity and treatment with folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12.

A one‐year cross‐sectional observational study was conducted on patients initially treated with renal replacement therapy such as HDF on‐line and conventional HD. Data collected included patient's age, sex, aetiology, duration of dialysis treatment and association with dialysis session, including data on body mass index, waist circumference, treatment with vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid.

The results obtained conclusively indicate that patients treated with renal replacement therapy such as HDF on‐line exhibit lower homocysteine levels than those treated with conventional HD. Therefore we can conclude that: homocysteine markers indicate that patients treated with HDF on‐line are exposed to lower average vascular risk.
E‐Business: A Review of Research Published in Production and Operations Management (1992–2008)
Authors: Gupta Sushil , Koulamas Christos , Kyparisis George J.
Published: November 2009

We review, classify, consolidate, and synthesize the contributions to the expanding field of e‐business that have been published in Production and Operations Management. We classify e‐business research in the following four categories: (1) e‐auctions, (2) radio frequency identification, (3) e‐business system design, and (4) competition, conflict, collaboration, and coordination (C4 in e‐business). We identify important research themes, research methodologies, and research techniques within each of these categories. We also provide directions for future research and discuss the managerial implications of the e‐business research reported in our paper.
Desired Compensation Adaptive Robust Control
Authors: Yao Bin
Published: November 2009

A desired compensation adaptive robust control (DCARC) framework is presented for nonlinear systems having both parametric uncertainties and uncertain nonlinearities. The paper first considers a class of higher order nonlinear systems transformable to a normal form with matched model uncertainties. For this class of uncertain systems, the desired values of all states for tracking a known desired trajectory can be predetermined and the usual desired compensation concept can be used to synthesize DCARC laws. The paper then focuses on systems with unmatched model uncertainties, in which the desired values of the intermediate state variables for perfect output tracking of a known desired trajectory cannot be predetermined. A novel way of formulating desired compensation concept is proposed and a DCARC backstepping design is developed to overcome the design difficulties associated with unmatched model uncertainties. The proposed DCARC framework has the unique feature that the adaptive model compensation and the regressor depend on the reference output trajectory and on-line parameter estimates only. Such a structure has several implementation advantages. First, the adaptive model compensation is always bounded when projection type adaption law is used, and thus does not affect the closed-loop system stability. As a result, the interaction between the parameter adaptation and the robust control law is reduced, which may facilitate the controller gain tuning process considerably. Second, the effect of measurement noise on the adaptive model compensation and on the parameter adaptation law is minimized. Consequently, a faster adaptation rate can be chosen in implementation to speed up the transient response and to improve overall tracking performance. These claims have been verified in the comparative experimental studies of several applications.
Combined Moisture and Thermal Stresses Failure Mode in a PLCC
Authors: Kornblum Y. , Glaser J. C.
Published: November 2009

A finite element analysis has been conducted to provide a new explanation for PLCC cracking during soldering and develop a working model for the cracking phenomena. The model shows that cracking is due to strong moisture, temperature and material properties gradients that are developed in the body of the PLCC and that the moisture is not accumulated in a free state under the pad. Instead it is distributed in three distinct regions in the PLCC encapsulation. The results of this model indicate high stress at points where cracks were reported to occur.