bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of histamine H4receptor in immune and inflammatory disorders
Authors: Zampeli E , Tiligada E
Published: March 2009

Since its discovery at the beginning of the 20th century, histamine has been established to play a pathophysiological regulatory role in cellular events through binding to four types of G‐protein‐coupled histamine receptors that are differentially expressed in various cell types. The discovery, at the turn of the millennium, that the histamine H4receptor is largely expressed in haemopoietic cells as well as its chemotactic properties designate its regulatory role in the immune system. H4receptors modulate eosinophil migration and selective recruitment of mast cells leading to amplification of histamine‐mediated immune responses and eventually to chronic inflammation. H4receptor involvement in dendritic cell activation and T cell differentiation documents its immunomodulatory function. The characterization of the H4as the immune system histamine receptor directed growing attention towards its therapeutic exploitation in inflammatory disorders, such as allergy, asthma, chronic pruritus and autoimmune diseases. The efficacy of a number of H4receptor ligands has been evaluated inin vivoandin vitroanimal models of disease and in human biological samples. However, before reaching decisive conclusions on H4receptor pathophysiological functions and therapeutic exploitation, identification of genetic polymorphisms and interspecies differences in its relative actions and pharmacological profile need to be addressed and taken into consideration. Despite certain variations in the reported findings, the available data strongly point to the H4receptor as a novel target for the pharmacological modulation of histamine‐transferred immune signals and offer an optimistic perspective for the therapeutic exploitation of this promising new drug target in inflammatory disorders.
The Importance of Conceptual and Concrete Modelling in Architectural Design Education
Authors: Akalin Aysu , Sezal Ihsan
Published: March 2009

The design studio is the heart of architectural education. It is where future architects are moulded and the main forum for creative exploration, interaction and assimilation. This article argues for a ‘studio‐based learning’ approach in terms of the impact of design tools, especially sketching and concrete modelling, on the creativity or problem‐solving capabilities of a student. The implementation of a ‘vertical design studio’ model at Gazi University Department of Architecture is reported with examples of students’ works.
Boys' Lack of Interest in Fine Arts in a Coeducational Setting: A Review of Sex‐Related Cognitive Traits Studies
Authors: Savoie Alain
Published: March 2009

Fine arts teachers' concerns about male underachievement in a Quebec coeducational high school, and a related survey showing boys' negative perceptions of fine arts motivated this interdisciplinary literature review. Referring to biology and cognitive science, the article explores concepts of sex‐related cognitive traits to help in designing sex‐adapted approaches to individual learning in art education. The nature‐nurture controversy still surrounds sex‐based cognitive differences studies, though science agrees that natural and socio‐cultural factors are somehow closely interwoven in the complex gender identity construction process. Sex‐related biological predispositions influencing cognition are proposed notably in ‘instrumentality‐expressiveness' and ‘empathising‐systemising (E‐S)’ theories. The article suggests that in the context of art education, these sex‐related cognitive models deserve study, because they could initiate sex‐adapted teaching strategies with the necessary flexibility and wider scope to overcome gender‐stereotyped biases and stimulate boys' interest in the arts. This suggested approach should not be confused with stereotype‐based pedagogy, which merely strengthens learned gender characteristics, producing or maintaining academic underachievement.
ARTEMIS: Reinvigorating History and Theory in Art and Design Education
Authors: Janet Jeff , Miles Melissa
Published: March 2009

ARTEMIS (Art Educational Multiplayer Interactive Space) is an online multi‐user virtual environment that is designed around the objects, artefacts, philosophies, personalities and critical discourses of the histories and theories of art and design. Conceived as a means of reinvigorating art history and theory education in the digital age, ARTEMIS addresses the specific teaching and learning needs of a new generation of art and design students in higher education. This article is a case study that addresses the second phase of the testing and design development of ARTEMIS. It builds on the findings of the initial phase, which involved the development of the ‘proof of concept’ for an online virtual world and game designed for undergraduate students in the Faculty of Art and Design at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. Drawing on a test trial and student response survey, this article assesses whether virtual environments like ARTEMIS can generate new life in art and design history, augment the teaching and learning mix in art and design higher education, and foster new modes of active engagement amongst students.
Design Theory and Design Practice within Sloyd Education
Authors: Sjöberg Barbro
Published: March 2009

This article is part of a formal research project concerning design as an integrated part of sloyd education. The concept of ‘sloyd education’ is used in the Nordic countries as an umbrella term for different educational crafts whose scientific basis is to be found in the university subjects Sloyd Education and Crafts Science. The aim of the whole project is to develop methods for teaching design theory and design practice within sloyd teacher education. By analysing the design processes of five design students during an MA course in Fashion and Textiles, an account of the kind of design knowledge the students are working on during the process, and how iterativeness and multi‐layered procedures, which are characteristic for the design process of a single student, is built up. The results of the analysis show that during the design process the students concentrate on technological and aesthetical knowledge and that the design process can be very varied and have its starting points both in images and in concrete materials.
Endogenous α‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide mitigates liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis induced by repeated administration of concanavalin A
Authors: Kamiyoshi Akiko , Sakurai Takayuki , Ichikawa‐Shindo Yuka , Iinuma Nobuyoshi , Kawate Hisaka , Yoshizawa Takahiro , Koyama Teruhide , Muto Shin‐ichi , Shindo Takayuki
Published: March 2009

Background: α‐Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (αCGRP) is a 37‐amino acid pleiotropic peptide that we previously showed to exert a hepatoprotective effect during concanavalin A (Con A)‐induced acute hepatitis. In the present study, we used αCGRP−/− mice to further investigate the antifibrogenic and hepatoprotective effects of endogenous αCGRP in Con A‐induced chronic hepatitis.

Methods: Chronic hepatitis was induced in αCGRP−/− and wild‐type mice by repeated administration of Con A. Serum transaminases were measured to assess hepatic injury. The severity of fibrosis and the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were analysed by Masson trichrome staining and immunohistochemical staining of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) respectively. Altered expression of fibrosis‐ and inflammation‐related genes was evaluated using a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Activation and proliferation of HSCs were analysed using both primary cultured HSCs from the mice and the LI90 HSC cell line.

Results: αCGRP−/− mice showed more severe liver fibrosis than wild‐type mice in a Con A‐induced chronic hepatitis model. In histological and gene expression analyses, αCGRP−/− mice showed greater inflammatory and fibrotic changes, greater HSC activation and a higher incidence of apoptosis among nonparenchymal cells than wild‐type mice.

Conclusions: Endogenous αCGRP mitigates liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis induced by repeated administration of Con A. αCGRP could be a useful therapeutic target for the treatment of chronic hepatitis.
Study of liver‐targeted regulatory T cells in hepatitis B and C virus in chronically infected patients
Authors: Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Zhou Huijuan , Ichikawa Tatsuki , Nakao Kazuhiko , Shibata Hidetaka , Takeshita Shigeyuki , Akiyama Motohisa , Ozawa Eisuke , Miuma Satoshi , Eguchi Katsumi
Published: March 2009

Introduction: Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in chronic viral infections. The role of Tregs in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is unknown. This study examined the distribution and frequency of forkhead box p3+ (Foxp3+) Tregs in the liver tissue and compared the clinicopathological characteristics of CHB and CHC patients.

Methods: Liver needle biopsies were obtained from 26 patients who were hepatitis B surface antigen positive and 27 patients who were hepatitis C virus antibody positive.

Results: The ratio of Foxp3+ Tregs in CD3+ T cells was similar in HBV and in HCV cases. In HBV cases, the variables that were positively associated with the ratio of Foxp3+ Tregs in CD3+ T cells included the serum alanine aminotransferase level (R=0.402, P=0.025) and the ratio of CD8+ T cell plus CD56+ NK cell against CD4+ T cell (R=0.53, P=0.005). The ratio of Foxp3+ Tregs in CD3+ T cells increased more in the severe activity group than in the mild activity group (P=0.04). In HCV cases, the ratio of Foxp3+ Tregs in CD3+ T cells increased significantly in terms of the genotype2 (P=0.0002) and male gender (P=0.04). In addition, the ratio of Foxp3+ Tregs in CD3+ T cells showed a negative correlation with the ratio of CD8+ T cell plus CD56+ NK cell against CD4+ T cell (R=−0.508, P=0.005) and HCV viral load (R=−0.482, P=0.001).

Conclusions: Liver‐targeted regulatory T cells present similarly in CHB and CHC, but their relationship with the effector cell population, the inflammation grade or the viral load is different between CHB and CHC.
Knowledge of emergency contraception amongst tertiary students in far North Queensland
Authors: MOHORIC‐STARE Dominika , DE COSTA Caroline
Published: March 2009

Background: Emergency contraception (EC) has been available in Australia without prescription since 2003. However, there has been little research into the extent of knowledge of the actions, effectiveness and availability of EC among the general population.

Aims: To determine the extent of knowledge of EC among tertiary students in Far North Queensland, and their ability to access EC in the region.

Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to tertiary students in Cairns asking about their knowledge of EC, its effectiveness and its availability over‐the‐counter in pharmacies, as well as their willingness to access EC themselves if indicated, in settings in which they may be known, and in those where they would be unknown.

Results: Of 500 questionnaires 460 were returned; 29% of participants had used EC in the past. Only 20% understood the correct timeframe in which EC can be used; 40% were not aware of its availability over‐the‐counter in pharmacies, and more than 20% felt unable to purchase EC in a pharmacy where they could be recognised. Only 44% of participants were aware of the cost of EC.

Conclusion: A significant lack of information regarding the availability, methods of action and limitations of EC was noted in this well‐educated population. There was also a high proportion of participants who felt unable to access EC in a pharmacy where they might be known, a factor limiting accessibility of the method in small town and community settings.
Designing a Three‐dimensional Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene–Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) Scaffold for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Shao Hung‐Jen , Chen Chiang Sang , Lee I‐Chi , Wang Jyh‐Horng , Young Tai‐Horng
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to design a three‐dimensional expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE)–poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffold for tissue engineering. To test the feasibility of this composite scaffold, a series of two‐dimensional culture experiments were performed to investigate the behavior of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) cells on the ePTFE and PLGA membranes. It was found PLGA provided a cell‐favorable substrate for cell adhesion, migration, and growth, indicating PLGA is an ACL cell‐conductive material. Conversely, poor adhesion and proliferation of ACL cells were observed on the ePTFE, even on the collagen‐coated ePTFE. Therefore, the scaffold was not fabricated by coating PLGA on the ePTFE surface because it is difficult to coat anything on the extremely hydrophobic ePTFE surface. Instead, the ePTFE embedded in the PLGA matrix was prepared by immersing ePTFE scrim yarns into the PLGA solution, and then precipitating PLGA to form a three‐dimensional construction with porous morphology. The role of ePTFE is regarded as a reinforcing constituent to improve the mechanical strength of porous PLGA matrix to provide early repair strength for tissue healing. However, porous PLGA matrix acts as a supportive environment for allowing cell adhesion, migration, and growth to guide the repair and regeneration of ligament tissue. To test this assumption, a preliminary animal experiment of rabbit ACL wound healing with this three‐dimensional ePTFE–PLGA scaffold was performed. These results are very encouraging because such a new scaffold made of ePTFE scrim yarns embedded in PLGA may serve as ACL prostheses in the ligament tissue engineering.
Measurements by Laser Doppler Velocimetry in the Casing/Impeller Clearance Gap of a Biocentrifugal Ventricular Assist Device Model
Authors: Chua Leok Poh , Ong Kang Shiu , Song Guoliang , Ji Wenfa
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The velocity distributions in the clearance gap of the Kyoto‐NTN biocentrifugal ventricular assist device model were measured by laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) at three inlet flow conditions, namely operating, fully opened, and fully closed conditions. The results obtained have a similar trend as in the earlier measurements using air as medium and the hot‐wire probe, a washout mechanism that is a segment of fluids in the gap situated from θ = 60° to 220°, has a larger radial velocity component flowing toward the eye of the pump, as compared to other regions in the gap where the tangential velocity component is dominant. It is essential to have a good washout for the leakage flow through the clearance gap between the stationary casing and the impeller of the pump so that the blood will not keep on circulating in the gap but is washed out to the eye in order to reduce the chances of being destroyed. Although the detailed velocity distributions are not the same, this should be due to the minor fabrication differences between two pump models. The current noninvasive LDV measurements should have a better representation of the actual flow field than the earlier studies due to the blood analog being used as the flow medium. Furthermore, as compared to the methods used in the earlier studies, there is basically no modification of the pump geometry in the present measurement.
Analysis of Flow Patterns in a Ventricular Assist Device: A Comparative Study of Particle Image Velocimetry and Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Sato Katsutoshi , Orihashi Kazumasa , Kurosaki Tatsuya , Tokumine Asako , Fukunaga Shintaro , Ninomiya Shinji , Sueda Taijiro
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  In order to develop a diaphragm‐type ventricular assist device (VAD), we studied the flow field change following structural modifications. We devised a center flow‐type pump by putting a small projection on the center of the housing and/or diaphragm to provide a center in the flow field, and examined the following four types of VADs: N type without a projection, D type with a projection on the diaphragm, H type with a projection on the housing, and DH type with projections on both the diaphragm and housing. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used for flow simulation. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) was also used to verify the reliability of the CFD method and to determine how the flow field changes in the presence of a projection. The results of the PIV and CFD analyses were comparable. The placement of a projection on the housing was most effective in rectifying the flow field.
Unsuccessful Alloplastic Esophageal Replacement With Porcine Small Intestinal Submucosa
Authors: Doede Thorsten , Bondartschuk Michail , Joerck Carsten , Schulze Eberhard , Goernig Matthias
Published: March 2009

Abstract: In general, there is no perfect method for esophageal replacement under consideration of the numerous associated risks and complications. The aim of this study was to examine a new material—small intestinal submucosa (SIS)—in alloplastic esophageal replacement. We implanted tubular SIS prosthesis about 4 cm in length in the cervical esophagus of 14 piglets (weight 9–13 kg). For the first 10 days, the animals were fed parenterally, supplemented by free given water, followed by an oral feeding phase. Four weeks after surgery, the animals were sacrificed. Only 1 of the 14 animals survived the study period of 4 weeks. The other piglets had to be sacrificed prematurely because of severe esophageal stenosis. On postmortem exploration, the prosthesis could not be found either macroscopically or histologically. Sutures between the prosthesis and the cervical muscles did not improve the results. Until now, the use of alloplastic materials in esophageal replacement has failed irrespective of the kind of material. As well as in our experiments, severe stenosis had been reported in several animal studies. The reasons for this unacceptable high rate of stenosis after alloplastic esophageal replacement seem to be multifactorial. Possible solutions could be transanastomotic splints, less inert materials, the decrease of anastomotic tension by stay sutures, the use of adult stem cells, and tissue engineering.
Hemocompatibility Evaluation With Experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamic Analyses for a Monopivot Circulatory Assist Pump
Authors: Nishida Masahiro , Maruyama Osamu , Kosaka Ryo , Yamane Takashi , Kogure Hisato , Kawamura Hiroshi , Yamamoto Yoshihiro , Kuwana Katsuyuki , Sankai Yoshiyuki , Tsutsui Tatsuo
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The hemocompatibility of a newly developed monopivot circulatory assist pump was evaluated by the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analyses with the particle tracking velocimetry measurement. Results were compared with those of the hemolysis test and in vitro antithrombogenic test to prevent hemolysis and thrombus formation inside the pump. The results of the CFD analysis and the particle tracking velocimetry had a good agreement with each other. The flow distributions by the CFD analysis indicated that the radial jet out of the impeller was adequately weak so that the wall shear stress was lower than 300 Pa on the volute casing wall. It corresponded with the hemolysis tests results, indicating that the hemolysis level was lower than that of the commercially available pump. However, the flow distributions also indicated that the pivot that was easy to stagnate was washed out, not only by the secondary flow through the back gap of the impeller, but also by the vortices generated by the secondary vanes. It corresponded with the in vitro antithrombogenic test results, indicating that thrombus formation could be removed only by redesigning the geometry of the secondary vanes.
Alloanti‐c (RH4) revealing that the (C)ces haplotype encodes a partial c antigen
Authors: Pham Bach‐Nga , Peyrard Thierry , Juszczak Genevieve , Auxerre Carine , Godin Sandrine , Bonin Philippe , Rouger Philippe , Le Pennec Pierre‐Yves
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: In the Rh blood group system, published observations showed that the c antigen has the fewest variant forms of the principal antigens in this system. The partial nature of the c antigen was only reported in c+ Rh:−26 persons and to be associated with the ces(340) allele. This study reports the first case of alloanti‐c related to a (C)ces haplotype.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Serologic and genetic studies were performed on blood samples of a multitransfused 40‐year‐old African patient with sickle cell disease displaying a DCcee phenotype.

RESULTS: Red blood cells (RBCs) of the patient displayed normal expression of C, c, e, ce antigens either with routine reagents or with monoclonal antibodies. Analyses of DNA and Rh transcripts showed that the patient carried a (C)ces/DCe genotype. The patient's serum contained anti‐D, anti‐c, anti‐E, anti‐e, anti‐V, anti‐Jsa, and anti‐S. Anti‐c was isolated from the mixture of antibodies by using absorption and adsorption‐elution techniques. Anti‐c provided consistent reactions with c+ RBCs. Reactions were stronger with c+ ce+ RBCs than with c+ ce− RBCs. No agglutination of RBCs from individuals carrying a homozygous (C)ces genotype was observed.

CONCLUSION: These data provide the evidence that anti‐c in our patient was an alloanti‐c and, consequently, that (C)ces haplotype encodes a partial c antigen. The clinical significance of anti‐c related to this haplotype should be evaluated in the future.
Clinical application of a flow cytometric direct antiglobulin test
Authors: Lin Jeong‐Shi , Hao Tsung‐Chi , Lyou Jau‐Yi , Chen Ying‐Ju , Liu Hsueng‐Mei , Tzeng Cheng‐Hwai , Chiou Tzeon‐Jye
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: The clinical application of flow cytometric direct antiglobulin test (FC‐DAT) has rarely been evaluated for patients with various diseases including immune and nonimmune hemolytic anemia.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood samples from 380 patients with a variety of diseases were studied using the tube direct DAT and FC‐DAT. The results of tube DAT and FC‐DAT were compared. The predictive values of DAT for hemolysis were evaluated.

RESULTS: Of 57 patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), 6 of the 17 with a negative tube DAT (immunoglobulin G [IgG]) had a positive FC‐DAT (IgG) and 23 of the 36 patients with a negative tube DAT (complement 3d [C3d]) had a positive FC‐DAT (C3d). In 57 patients with AIHA, the incidence of positive results of FC‐DAT (IgG) and tube DAT (IgG) were similar (42 positive vs. 40 positive); but in 323 patients without AIHA, the incidence of positive FC‐DATs (IgG) was higher than that of tube DAT (IgG; 47 positive vs. 9 positive). The higher incidence of positive FC‐DAT (C3d) than that of tube DAT (C3d) was seen in patients with AIHA (42 positive vs. 21 positive) as well as in patients without AIHA (61 positive vs. 5 positive). Both DAT (IgG) and DAT (C3d) positive has highest positive predictive value for hemolysis, followed by DAT (IgG) alone positive and DAT (C3d) alone positive.

CONCLUSIONS: FC‐DAT is a complementary test for diagnosing AIHA. There is a synergistic effect of the red blood cell–bound IgG and complement in predicting hemolysis.
Current concepts in research related to oncogenes implicated in salivary gland tumourigenesis: a review of the literature
Authors: Elledge R
Published: March 2009

Background:  Salivary gland tumours are relatively uncommon and there exists considerable difficulty in decisions regarding prognosis and management, as well as diagnostic uncertainty that has implications for treatment.

Method:  Literature pertaining to individual oncogenes has been reviewed and commented upon, specifically looking at the role of these as diagnostic and prognostic markers and as potential targets for treatments.

Results:  kit, PLAG1, Mect1‐Maml2, HMGIC, HER2/neu, ras, c‐fos and Sox‐4 all have seminal small‐scale studies in the literature with potential for further research and eventual clinical applications.

Conclusion:  A wide variety of oncogenes are implicated in salivary gland tumourigenesis, with evidence being confined to small murine or in vitro studies more often than not. There are possible roles for different oncogenes in therapeutics, prognosis and management of specific salivary gland tumours.
USE OF PURCHASE PREFERENCE OPTIONS TO INCREASE “NO PREFERENCE” FREQUENCIES IN PLACEBO PREFERENCE TESTS
Authors: ANGULO OFELIA , OKAYAMA KIYOAKI , NAKAMURA TSUKASA , YUEN RANDALL , O'MAHONY MICHAEL
Published: March 2009

Besides responses to the different stimuli being tested in a paired preference test, responses to identical “placebo” stimuli can be used as a screening tool to identify biased consumers. Those consumers who give preference responses to identical stimuli can be assumed to be biased. Accordingly, only the data from unbiased consumers need to be considered for the different stimuli. The problem with this procedure is that the sample size is reduced. The goal of the present research was to see whether using options associated with purchase intent, elicited a greater number of “No Preference” responses to identical “placebo” stimuli. It was found that they did. The increase was large when the preference options implied exclusivity. In conditions where the preference strength options were not so strong, the frequency of “No Preference” responses dropped accordingly.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

A problem with paired preference testing is the tendency of consumers to give false preferences, which produces the seriously misleading overestimation of the proportion of consumers who have preferences for one or other of the products being assessed. The “placebo” condition is an important control for alleviating this problem. The statistical analysis can be improved by finding a protocol that maximizes the proportion of “No Preference” responses in the placebo condition. The key finding here is that using purchase intent questions rather than preference questions may possibly provide a way of achieving this aim.
SENSORY EVALUATION OF INDIAN‐STYLE MARINATED CHICKEN BY MALAYSIAN AND EUROPEAN NAÏVE ASSESSORS
Authors: YUSOP S.M. , O'SULLIVAN M.G. , KERRY J.F. , KERRY J.P.
Published: March 2009

This study was carried out to determine the sensory acceptability of chicken breast fillets marinated with 13 different commercially available Indian‐style marinades. Thirty‐four naïve assessors (untrained panelists), 20 Malaysian and 14 European, were selected to assess the following sensory attributes: color, color uniformity, Tikka‐Masala aroma, Tikka‐Masala flavor, herblike flavor, hotness, authenticity, juiciness and overall acceptability. The color of the cooked samples and the pH, moisture and fat content of the marinades were analyzed instrumentally. Marinades were applied to the chicken fillets, which were then dry cooked at 170C for 15 min to an internal temperature of 73C. Sensory evaluation showed significant differences (P < 0.05) in color uniformity, hotness and juiciness of the cooked marinated chicken perceived between groups. Samples marinated with marinades L and I received the highest score from the Malaysian panelists in terms of overall acceptability, whereas marinades A and F were chosen by the European group.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The findings from this research will benefit manufacturers of marinade and marinated chicken products in developing or optimizing their products for the local and international markets. The optimal characteristics of an ideal marinade were identified for each assessor group. These results are also of interest to individuals undertaking cross‐cultural consumer studies, even though the results presented here used naïve assessors.
The Proteolytic Stability and Cytotoxicity Studies of l‐Aspartic Acid and l‐Diaminopropionic Acid derived β‐Peptides and a Mixed α/β‐Peptide
Authors: Ahmed Sahar , Kaur Kamaljit
Published: March 2009

The use of peptides as drugs in pharmaceutical applications is hindered by their susceptibility to proteolysis and therefore low bioavailability. β‐Peptides that contain an additional methylene group in the backbone, are gaining recognition from a pharmaceutical stand point as they are considerably more resilient to proteolysis and metabolism. Recently, we reported two new classes of β‐peptides, β3‐ and β2‐peptides derived from l‐aspartic acid and l‐diaminopropionic acid, respectively. Here, we report the proteolytic stability of these β‐peptidic compounds and a mixed α /β‐peptide against three enzymes (pronase, trypsin and elastase), as well as, human serum. The stability of these peptides was compared to an α‐peptide. Peptides containing β‐linkages were resistant to all conditions. The mixed α /β‐peptide, however, exhibited proteolysis in the presence of trypsin and pronase but not elastase. The rate of degradation of the mixed α /β‐peptide was slower than that would be expected for an α‐peptide. In addition, these β‐peptides were not toxic to HeLa and COS‐1 cell lines as observed by MTT cytotoxicity assay. These results expand the scope of mixed α /β‐peptides containing β‐amino acids or small β‐peptide fragments as therapeutic peptides.
Detection of Fecal Residue on Poultry Carcasses by Laser‐Induced Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Cho B. , Kim M.S. , Chao K. , Lawrence K. , Park B. , Kim K.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  Feasibility of fluorescence imaging technique for the detection of diluted fecal matters from various parts of the digestive tract, including colon, ceca, small intestine, and duodenum, on poultry carcasses was investigated. One of the challenges for using fluorescence imaging for inspection of agricultural material is the low fluorescence yield in that fluorescence can be masked by ambient light. A laser‐induced fluorescence imaging system (LIFIS) developed by our group allowed acquisition of fluorescence from feces‐contaminated poultry carcasses in ambient light. Fluorescence emission images at 630 nm were captured with 415‐nm laser excitation. Image processing algorithms including threshold and image erosion were used to identify fecal spots diluted up to 1: 10 by weight with double distilled water. Feces spots on the carcasses, without dilution and up to 1: 5 dilutions, could be detected with 100% accuracy regardless of feces type. Detection accuracy for fecal matters diluted up to 1: 10 was 96.6%. The results demonstrated good potential of the LIFIS for detection of diluted poultry fecal matter, which can harbor pathogens, on poultry carcasses.
Quality Index, Consumer Acceptability, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Activity of Fresh‐Cut “Ataulfo” Mangoes (Mangifera Indica L.) as Affected by Low‐Temperature Storage
Authors: Robles‐Sánchez R.M. , Islas‐Osuna M.A. , Astiazarán‐García H. , Vázquez‐Ortiz F.A. , Martín‐Belloso O. , Gorinstein S. , González‐Aguilar G.A.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  To measure bioactive compound losses due to minimal processing, mature green fresh‐cut mangoes (Mangifera indica L.) cv. “Ataulfo” were subjected to an antioxidant treatment and stored at 5 °C during 15 d. Quality index, total phenols, flavonoids, β‐carotene, ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and antioxidant activity were measured during the storage period of fruits. Antioxidant capacity was estimated using ORACFL, TEAC, and DPPH assays. The dipping treatments with ascorbic acid (AA) + citric acid (CA) + CaCl2 affected positively quality delaying deterioration of fresh‐cut mango as compared with whole fruit. However, dipping treatment affected the consumer preferences of fresh‐cut mangoes. The highest vitamin C, β‐carotene, and vitamin E losses were observed after 10 d, being similar in whole and fresh‐cut mangoes. The antioxidant activity was not significantly affected by storage time. We conclude that fresh‐cut mangoes retained their bioactive compound content during storage and their antioxidant and nutritional properties make them a good source of these compounds.
Color Development of Squid Skin as Affected by Oxygen Concentrations
Authors: Kinoshita Y. , Yoshioka T. , Kato S. , Konno K.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  Color development of squid skin was controlled by O2 concentration for storage. When stored above 10% O2, the color index (CI) as an index of color development of skin increased in 24 h, and decreased gradually with further storage. The CI profile at 10% O2 was practically identical to that in air. When stored at 0.1% O2, in the presence of N2, the CI increased partly in 6 h and decreased. Morphological observation of chromatophore distinguished the CI increase at 0.1% and 10% O2 by their shape and size distribution. However, the storage of squid at O2 concentration between 2.5% and 7% practically did not change the CI for at least 48 h. ATP content of skin was kept unchanged when the storage atmosphere contained O2 concentration at 2.5% up to 48 h, while the content decreased rapidly with a half decrease in 6 h when stored at 0.1% O2. It was demonstrated clearly that ATP is regenerated in the presence of O2, but the ATP concentration did not determine the CI change during the storage. Exposure to high concentration of O2 might induce a full color development of squid skin.
Antioxidant Activities of Purple Rice Bran Extract and Its Effect on the Quality of Low‐NaCl, Phosphate‐Free Patties Made from Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) Belly Flap Meat
Authors: Min B. , Chen M.‐H. , Green B.W.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  Purple rice bran contains high amounts of natural antioxidants that consist of water‐ and lipid‐soluble compounds. Hexane‐insoluble and hexane‐soluble fractions were separated from 100% methanolic extract from purple rice bran (RBE‐HI and RBE‐HS, respectively). Total anthocyanin, tannin, flavonoid, and phenolics contents were determined in those fractions, and their antioxidant capacities were evaluated by measuring 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capability, oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and iron chelating capability (ICC). RBE‐HI and RBE‐HS were also added to restructured patties made from minced channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) belly flap meat. Lipid oxidation, color, and/or textural properties were determined for raw and cooked patties during a 12‐d storage at 4 °C. All antioxidant indices, except for ICC, of RBE‐HI were significantly higher than those of RBE‐HS due probably to its higher anthocyanin content (P < 0.05). RBE‐HS showed higher ICC (P < 0.05). However, both fractions showed similar antioxidant activity in raw and cooked patties during storage, resulting from the complexity of antioxidant action in food systems. Textural properties (hardness, cohesiveness, chewiness, and springiness) in cooked patties with RBE‐HS and RBE‐HI were well maintained during storage, but changed significantly in the control (P < 0.05). Only RBE‐HS limited microbial growth in raw patties during storage (P < 0.05), but its inhibitory effect was marginal because of low‐dose and physical interactions with the matrix. L* (lightness) and a* (redness) of raw and cooked patties decreased significantly by both fractions, whereas b* (yellowness) was significantly decreased by RBE‐HI and increased by RBE‐HS (P < 0.05). In conclusion, we suggest that purple rice bran extract is applicable to meat products as a natural preservative, but color change in the products may limit its application.
Analysis of Compact Fluorescent Lights for Use by Patients with Photosensitive Conditions
Authors: Klein Rachel S. , Werth Victoria P. , Dowdy John C. , Sayre Robert M.
Published: March 2009

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is hazardous to patients with photosensitive skin disorders, such as lupus erythematosus, xeroderma pigmentosum and skin cancer. As such, these patients are advised to minimize their exposure to UVR. Classically, this is accomplished through careful avoidance of sun exposure and artificial tanning booths. Indoor light bulbs, however, are generally not considered to pose significant UVR hazard. We sought to test this notion by measuring the UV emissions of 19 different compact fluorescent light bulbs. The ability to induce skin damage was assessed with the CIE erythema action spectrum, ANSI S(λ) generalized UV hazard spectrum and the CIE photocarcinogenesis action spectrum. The results indicate that there is a great deal of variation amongst different bulbs, even within the same class. Although the irradiance of any given bulb is low, the possible daily exposure time is rather lengthy. This results in potential daily UVR doses ranging from 0.1 to 625 mJ cm−2, including a daily UVB (290–320 nm) dose of 0.01 to 15 mJ cm−2. Because patients are exposed continually over long time frames, this could lead to significant cumulative damage. It would therefore be prudent for patients to use bulbs with the lowest UV irradiance.
Infrared Multiple Photon Dissociation of Chloromethyltrifluorosilane
Authors: Koshlyakov Pavel V. , Gorelik Sergey R. , Chesnokov Evgeniy N. , Aseev Oleg S. , Rakhymzhan Asylkhan A. , Petrov Alexander K.
Published: March 2009

Infrared multiphoton absorption and dissociation of chloromethyltrifluorosilane molecules under the action of pulsed transversely excited atmospheric pressure CO2 laser were experimentally studied. Dissociation products were analyzed. The dissociation proceeds via chlorine atom transfer from carbon to silicone. High degrees of silicon isotope separation were achieved. The presence of α‐chlorine atom in a silicon organic compound brings about a significant improvement in multiple photon dissociation characteristics and an essential increase in isotopic selectivity.
siRNA‐mediated Knockdown of the Heme Synthesis and Degradation Pathways: Modulation of Treatment Effect of 5‐Aminolevulinic Acid‐based Photodynamic Therapy in Urothelial Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Miyake Makito , Ishii Masazumi , Kawashima Kiyotaka , Kodama Tetsuro , Sugano Kokichi , Fujimoto Kiyohide , Hirao Yoshihiko
Published: March 2009

Photodynamic therapy mediated by 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA‐PDT) has been developed as a therapeutic modality for refractory superficial bladder cancers. Here, in experiments using urothelial cancer cell lines, we investigated the effects of siRNA modulating heme‐synthetic and degradation pathways for ALA‐PDT. Targeted knockdown of ferrochelatase (FECH) suppressed heme synthesis and significantly increased intracellular protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) accumulation, leading to enhanced phototoxicity in four of five cell lines. Heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is recognized as important for cytoprotection against oxidative stress such as PDT. Targeted knockdown of HO‐1 leads to decreased intracellular PpIX accumulation, resulting in a failure to enhance ALA‐PDT effect in four cell lines. Knockdown of HO‐1 caused marked growth inhibition in UM‐UC‐2 overexpressing HO‐1, whereas no inhibitory effect was observed in UM‐UC‐3 lacking HO‐1 expression. Moreover, HO‐1 protein levels and (GT)n repeat polymorphism of the HO‐1 gene promoter region were examined with the implication that the constitutive expressions of HO‐1 protein were associated with a shorter (GT)n repeat. Our results suggested that (1) FECH siRNA improved the phototoxicity of ALA‐PDT, (2) overexpression of HO‐1 was associated with shorter (GT)n repeat of the promoter region, and (3) siRNA‐mediated knockdown of HO‐1 could suppress the growth of bladder cancer cells overexpressing HO‐1.
Photostability of UV Absorber Systems in Sunscreens†
Authors: Herzog Bernd , Wehrle Monika , Quass Katja
Published: March 2009

Sunscreens are used to protect the human skin against harmful UV radiation. Today there is a trend toward higher sun protection factors (SPF) and better UVA protection. Methods for the assessment of SPF and UVA protection involve irradiation of the product, and the photostability properties of the sunscreen have an influence on its performance. Sunscreens often contain more than one UV filter. Thus it is important to understand the photostability properties of the complete system. The filter combinations used may exhibit destabilizing, stabilizing or inert interactions. For that reason, besides assessment of the properties of the single filters, photostabilities of binary filter combinations are investigated. Destabilization occurs when two UV absorbers undergo a chemical reaction after absorption of UV radiation. Stabilization may be achieved when the optical density of the system is very high, giving rise to a self‐protection effect of the sunscreen film. Photounstable UV absorbers may be additionally stabilized by employing triplet quenchers. Being aware of these mechanisms and applying them for specific UV filter combinations can help in designing efficient sunscreens.
Photosensitized DNA Damage: The Case of Fluoroquinolones†
Authors: Lhiaubet‐Vallet Virginie , Bosca Francisco , Miranda Miguel Angel
Published: March 2009

This review focuses on DNA damage photosensitized by the fluoroquinolone (FQ) antibacterial drugs. The in vivo evidence for photocarcinogenesis mediated by FQs is presented in the introduction. The different methods employed for detection of DNA‐photodamage mediated by FQs are then summarized, including gel electrophoresis (with whole cells, with isolated DNA and with oligonucleotides) and chromatographic analysis (especially HPLC with electrochemical and MS/MS detection). The chemical mechanisms involved in the formation of the reported lesions are discussed on the basis of product studies and transient spectroscopic evidence. In general, the literature coverage is limited to the last decade, although some earlier citations are also included.
Isolation and characterization of 12 microsatellite loci forRhamnus alaternus(Rhamnaceae)
Authors: ARROYO J. M. , RODRÍGUEZ R. , RIGUEIRO C. , HAMPE A. , JORDANO P.
Published: March 2009

Twelve polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed forRhamnus alaternususing an enriched‐library approach. We detected 69 alleles in 49 individuals genotyped (mean number of alleles per locus was 4.79) in two different populations. The values of observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.045 to 0.963 and 0.089 to 0.873 respectively. Levels of polymorphism and the exclusionary power of the developed markers render them readily applicable for studies of contemporary pollen and seed gene flow through parentage analyses.
Isolation and characterization of the first eight microsatellite loci in Gammarus fossarum (Crustacea, Amphipoda) and cross‐amplification in Gammarus pulex and Gammarus orinos
Authors: DANANCHER DELPHINE , CELLOT BERNARD , DOLÉDEC SYLVAIN , REYNAUD DOMINIQUE
Published: March 2009

We characterized the first microsatellite markers for Gammarus fossarum. Eight loci gave satisfactory amplification patterns in two stream populations (Southern France) with number of alleles ranging from 2 to 10 and expected heterozygosity from 0.076 to 0.857. We performed cross‐amplification in two closely related gammarid species, Gammarus pulex and Gammarus orinos. Among the eight tested microsatellite loci, four correctly amplified in G. pulex and three in G. orinos.
Microsatellite loci for the Chinese bamboo rat Rhizomus sinensis
Authors: ZHAN XIANGJIANG , HU YIBO , YIN YANQIANG , WEI FUWEN , BRUFORD MICHAEL W.
Published: March 2009

We describe 19 polymorphic microsatellite loci for the bamboo rat Rhizomus sinensis. When tested with 20 samples from a single population, these loci exhibited a mean of 4.5 alleles per locus and a mean expected heterozygosity of 0.612. All loci were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and no evidence for linkage disequilibrium was detected between any loci. These loci will be useful for studying population genetic diversity and differentiation in the Chinese bamboo rat.
The Effect of the Top Wall Temperature on the Laminar Natural Convection in Rectangular Cavities With Different Aspect Ratios
Authors: Wu Wenjiang , Ching Chan Y.
Published: March 2009

The effect of the top wall temperature on the laminar natural convection in air-filled rectangular cavities driven by a temperature difference across the vertical walls was investigated for three different aspect ratios of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0. The temperature distributions along the heated vertical wall were measured, and the flow patterns in the cavities were visualized. The experiments were performed for a global Grashof number of approximately 1.8×108 and nondimensional top wall temperatures from 0.52 (insulated) to 1.42. As the top wall was heated, the flow separated from the top wall with an undulating flow region in the corner of the cavity, which resulted in a nonuniformity in the temperature profiles in this region. The location and extent of the undulation in the flow are primarily determined by the top wall temperature and nearly independent of the aspect ratio of the cavity. The local Nusselt number was correlated with the local Rayleigh number for all three cavities in the form of Nu=C⋅Ran, but the values of the constants C and n changed with the aspect ratio.
Discrete Ordinates and Monte Carlo Methods for Radiative Transfer Simulation Applied to Computational Fluid Dynamics Combustion Modeling
Authors: Joseph David , Perez Patrice , El Hafi Mouna , Cuenot Bénédicte
Published: March 2009

Modeling radiative heat transfer in combustion applications involving complex geometries and detailed spectral properties of radiative gaseous species remains a difficult challenge, especially when full coupling with detailed chemistry and fluid dynamics is required. The Monte Carlo method (MCM) usually considered as a reference “exact” method for the computation of radiative transfer is however very demanding in CPU-time. An alternative is the discrete ordinates method (DOM), based on a finite volume approach, that is more suitable for a direct coupling with computational fluid dynamics but may lack accuracy. The aim of the present paper is to propose and demonstrate the efficiency of a methodology for radiative transfer calculation, combining the advantages of both MCM and DOM. In this approach, the fast DOM is used to compute the radiative solution, and its accuracy is controlled by comparison with the exact MCM solution at a selected controlling points. A first application of the proposed methodology to an industrial burner prototype shows its validity and potential for the direct coupling of radiation calculations with unsteady reacting flow computations.
The Disappearance of the Progenitors of Supernovae 1993J and 2003gd
Authors: Maund Justyn R. , Smartt Stephen J.
Published: March 2009

The presumed progenitor stars of supernovae are indeed absent in later images from these sites.
Circadian Clock Feedback Cycle Through NAMPT-Mediated NAD
+
Biosynthesis
Authors: Ramsey Kathryn Moynihan , Yoshino Jun , Brace Cynthia S. , Abrassart Dana , Kobayashi Yumiko , Marcheva Biliana , Hong Hee-Kyung , Chong Jason L. , Buhr Ethan D. , Lee Choogon , Takahashi Joseph S. , Imai Shin-ichiro , Bass Joseph
Published: March 2009

Circadian Oscillations

The 24-hour day-night cycle plays an important role in mammalian physiology and behavior and, as most travelers are well aware, there is an intimate link between our in-built circadian clocks and metabolic rhythms. This link is in part forged by the protein deacetylase SIRT1, which regulates the clock's molecular circuitry. SIRT1 uses as a cofactor the cellular metabolite NAD
+
, which is synthesized through a salvage pathway that includes the enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) (see the Perspective by

Wijnen

).

Ramsey
et al.

(p.
651
; published online 19 March) and

Nakahata
et al.

(p.
654
, published online 12 March) now show that NAMPT and NAD
+
levels oscillate during the daily 24-hour cycle and that this oscillation is regulated by the circadian clock. Furthermore, the oscillations in NAD
+
modulate the activity of SIRT1 feeding back into the circadian clock.
TOPOLOGICAL SOLUTION OF BOHMIAN QUANTUM MECHANICS
Authors: SHI XUGUANG , YU MING , DUAN YISHI
Published: March 2009

The topological solutions of the De Broglie–Bohm quantum mechanics are presented. Starting from the Schrödinger equation for one particle system and ϕ-mapping topological current theory, the trajectory of the particle is derived explicitly, and can be used as the world line of the particle. The world line is just at the zero point of the wave function and it is shown that the vorticity of the world line can be expressed by Hopf index and Brouwer degree. The evolution of the world line at the bifurcation point is given.