bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex hormones and biomarkers of neuroprotection and neurodegeneration: implications for female reproductive events in bipolar disorder
Authors: Frey Benicio N , Dias Rodrigo S
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Previous studies have suggested that women with bipolar disorder are at higher risk for mood episodes during periods of intense hormonal fluctuation (e.g., premenstrual, postpartum, perimenopause). There is converging literature showing that estrogen and progesterone can modulate neurotransmitter systems and intracellular signaling pathways known to be affected by mood stabilizing agents. Here, we critically review clinical aspects of reproductive cycle events in women with bipolar disorder and preclinical studies, with a focus on the functional interactions between sex hormones and biomarkers of neuroprotection and neurodegeneration that are thought to be involved in the neurobiology of bipolar disorder: brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, oxidative stress, and inflammation.

Methods

A MedLine search usingestrogen,progesterone,brain‐derived neurotrophic factor,oxidative stress, andinflammationas key words was conducted.

Results

Data showed that estrogen and progesterone closely interact with brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, oxidative stress, and inflammation pathways.

Conclusions

This relationship between sex hormones and the pathways of neuroprotection/neurodegeneration may be relevant to the psychopathological aspects of bipolar disorder in women.
Prognostic and diagnostic implications of epithelial cell adhesion/activating molecule (EpCAM) expression in renal tumours: a retrospective clinicopathological study of 948 cases using tissue microarrays
Authors: Zimpfer Annette , Maruschke Matthias , Rehn Stefan , Kundt Guenter , Litzenberger Anke , Dammert Friederike , Zettl Heike , Stephan Carsten , Hakenberg Oliver W. , Erbersdobler Andreas
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the expression and prognostic value of epithelial cell adhesion/activating molecule (EpCAM) in a large set of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) using a tissue microarray (TMA) approach.

Material and Methods

We studied the immunohistochemical expression and overexpression of EpCAM on TMAs containing formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded samples of 948 patients with documented renal tumours.

EpCAM expression was defined as the presence of a specific membranous staining in >5% of the tumour cells.

EpCAM overexpression was specified by calculating a total staining score (score range 0–12) as the product of a proportion score and an intensity score, and defined as a score >4.

Results

Of 948 cases, 927 (97.8%) were evaluable morphologically (haematoxylin and eosin stain). EpCAM expression was found in 233/642 (36.3%), 126/155 (81.3%), 54/68 (78.3%), 17/45 (37.8%), 13/30 (43.3%) of clear‐cell RCC, papillary RCC (pRCC), chromophobe RCC (cpRCC), oncocytomas and other unclassified tumour types, respectively.

Log‐rank tests showed a significantly longer overall survival (OS [P = 0.047]) and a trend of EpCAM expression to be associated with a longer progression‐free survival (PFS) in all RCC entities (P = 0.065).

EpCAM overexpression was significantly correlated with a better PFS in all RCC subtypes, cpRCC and pRCC (P = 0.011, 0.043 and 0.025, respectively).

In multivariate analysis EpCAM overexpression was an independent marker for longer PFS in all RCC entities as well as in high grade RCC (P = 0.009 and P = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusions

The histological subtypes associated with a high rate of EpCAM expression were cpRCC and pRCC.

This retrospective analysis demonstrated a trend towards longer OS and PFS for all major RCC subtypes.

EpCAM expression had significant prognostic value in patients with cpRCC and pRCC. Furthermore, EpCAM overexpression in high grade RCC may be a helpful marker for prognostication.
Recent insights into NF‐κB signalling pathways and the link between inflammation and prostate cancer
Authors: Nguyen Daniel P. , Li Jinyi , Yadav Shalini S. , Tewari Ashutosh K.
Published: November 2013

Inflammation is involved in regulation of cellular events in prostate carcinogenesis through control of the tumour micro‐environment. A variety of bone marrow‐derived cells, including CD4+ lymphocytes, macrophages and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, are integral components of the tumour micro‐environment.

On activation by inflammatory cytokines, NF‐κB complexes are capable of promoting tumour cell survival through anti‐apoptotic signalling in prostate cancer (PCa). Positive feedback loops are able to maintain NF‐κB activation.

NF‐κB activation is also associated with the metastatic phenotype and PCa progression to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

A novel role for inhibitor of NF‐κB kinase (IKK)‐α in NF‐κB‐independent PCa progression to metastasis and CRPC has recently been uncovered, providing a new mechanistic link between inflammation and PCa. Expansion of PCa progenitors by IKK‐α may be involved in this process.

In this review, we offer the latest evidence regarding the role of the NF‐κB pathway in PCa and discuss therapeutic attempts to target the NF‐κB pathways. We point out the need to further dissect inflammatory pathways in PCa in order to develop appropriate preventive measures and design novel therapeutic strategies.
The TRPA1 channel in migraine mechanism and treatment
Authors: Benemei S , Fusi C , Trevisan Gabriela , Geppetti Pierangelo
Published: November 2013

Migraine remains an elusive and poorly understood disease. The uncertainty is reflected by the currently unsatisfactory acute and prophylactic treatments for this disease. Genetic and pharmacological information points to the involvement of some transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in pain mechanisms. In particular, the TRP vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) and TRP ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels seem to play a major role in different models of pain diseases. Recent findings have underscored the possibility that TRP channels expressed in the nerve terminals of peptidergic nociceptors contribute to the migraine mechanism. Among this channel subset, TRPA1, a sensor of oxidative, nitrative and electrophilic stress, is activated by an unprecedented series of irritant and pain‐provoking exogenous and endogenous agents, which release the pro‐migraine peptide, calcitonin gene‐related peptide, through this neuronal pathway. Some of the recently identified TRPA1 activators have long been known as migraine triggers. Furthermore, specific analgesic and antimigraine medicines have been shown to inhibit or desensitize TRPA1 channels. Thus, TRPA1 is emerging as a major contributing pathway in migraine and as a novel target for the development of drugs for pain and migraine treatment.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on the pharmacology of TRP channels. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐10
Stoichiometry of δ subunit containing GABAA receptors
Authors: Patel B , Mortensen M , Smart T G
Published: November 2013

Background and Purpose

Although the stoichiometry of the major synaptic αβγ subunit‐containing GABAA receptors has consensus support for 2α:2β:1γ, a clear view of the stoichiometry of extrasynaptic receptors containing δ subunits has remained elusive. Here we examine the subunit stoichiometry of recombinant α4β3δ receptors using a reporter mutation and a functional electrophysiological approach.

Experimental Approach

Using site‐directed mutagenesis, we inserted a highly characterized 9′ serine to leucine mutation into the second transmembrane (M2) region of α4, β3 and δ subunits that increases receptor sensitivity to GABA. Whole‐cell, GABA‐activated currents were recorded from HEK‐293 cells co‐expressing different combinations of wild‐type (WT) and/or mutant α4(L297S), β3(L284S) and δ(L288S) subunits.

Key Results

Recombinant receptors containing one or more mutant subunits showed increased GABA sensitivity relative to WT receptors by approximately fourfold, independent of the subunit class (α, β or δ) carrying the mutation. GABA dose–response curves of cells co‐expressing WT subunits with their respective L9′S mutants exhibited multiple components, with the number of discernible components enabling a subunit stoichiometry of 2α, 2β and 1δ to be deduced for α4β3δ receptors. Varying the cDNA transfection ratio by 10‐fold had no significant effect on the number of incorporated δ subunits.

Conclusions and Implications

Subunit stoichiometry is an important determinant of GABAA receptor function and pharmacology, and δ subunit‐containing receptors are important mediators of tonic inhibition in several brain regions. Here we demonstrate a preferred subunit stoichiometry for α4β3δ receptors of 2α, 2β and 1δ.
Drp1 is dispensable for apoptotic cytochrome c release in primed MCF10A and fibroblast cells but affects Bcl‐2 antagonist‐induced respiratory changes
Authors: Clerc P , Ge S X , Hwang H , Waddell J , Roelofs B A , Karbowski M , Sesaki H , Polster B M
Published: November 2013

Background and Purpose

Dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) mediates mitochondrial fission and is thought to promote Bax/Bak‐induced cytochrome c release during apoptosis. Conformationally active Bax, Bak and Bax/Bak‐activating BH3‐only proteins, such as Bim, are restrained by anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 proteins in cells that are ‘primed for death’. Inhibition of Bcl‐2/Bcl‐xL/Bcl‐w by the antagonist ABT‐737 causes rapid apoptosis of primed cells. Hence, we determined whether Drp1 is required for cytochrome c release, respiratory alterations and apoptosis of cells that are already primed for death.

Experimental Approach

We tested the Drp1 inhibitor mdivi‐1 for inhibition of cytochrome c release in MCF10A cells primed by Bcl‐2 overexpression. We measured ATP synthesis‐dependent, ‐independent and cytochrome c‐limited maximal oxygen consumption rates (OCRs) and cell death of immortalized wild‐type (WT) and Drp1 knockout (KO) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) treated with ABT‐737.

Key Results

Mdivi‐1 failed to attenuate ABT‐737‐induced cytochrome c release. ABT‐737 decreased maximal OCR measured in the presence of uncoupler in both WT and Drp1 KO MEF, consistent with respiratory impairment due to release of cytochrome c. However, Drp1 KO MEF were slightly less sensitive to this ABT‐737‐induced respiratory inhibition compared with WT, and were resistant to an initial ABT‐737‐induced increase in ATP synthesis‐independent O2 consumption. Nevertheless, caspase‐dependent cell death was not reduced. Pro‐apoptotic Bax was unaltered, whereas Bak was up‐regulated in Drp1 KO MEF.

Conclusions and Implications

The findings indicate that once fibroblast cells are primed for death, Drp1 is not required for apoptosis. However, Drp1 may contribute to ABT‐737‐induced respiratory changes and the kinetics of cytochrome c release.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Mitochondrial Pharmacology: Energy, Injury & Beyond. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐8
Reactive astrocytes and perivascular macrophages express NLRP3 inflammasome in active demyelinating lesions of multiple sclerosis and necrotic lesions of neuromyelitis optica and cerebral infarction
Authors: Kawana Natsuki , Yamamoto Yoji , Ishida Tsuyoshi , Saito Yuko , Konno Hidehiko , Arima Kunimasa , Satoh Jun‐ichi
Published: November 2013

Objective

Inflammasome, activated by pathogen‐derived and host‐derived danger signals, constitutes a multimolecular signaling complex that serves as a platform for caspase‐1 (CASP1) activation and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1B) maturation. Mice deficient for NLRP3 inflammasome components are resistant to experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), suggesting a pro‐inflammatory role of NLRP3 inflammasome. However, at present, a pathological role of NLRP3 inflammasome in multiple sclerosis (MS) brains remains unknown.

Methods

We studied the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components in active demyelinating lesions of MS by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Reactive astrocytes and perivascular macrophages expressed all three components of NLRP3 inflammasome – NLRP3, ASC and CASP1 – along with IL‐1B in active demyelinating lesions of MS, active necrotic lesions of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and acute necrotic lesions of cerebral infarction. In contrast, the levels of expression of NLRP3, ASC, CASP1, and IL‐1B were greatly reduced in chronic inactive lesions of MS and gliotic lesions of cerebral infarction. Furthermore, the great majority of ramified and amoeboid microglia did not express NLRP3 in active and inactive MS lesions.

Conclusions

NLRP3 inflammasome could be activated chiefly in reactive astrocytes and infiltrating macrophages under the condition of active destruction of brain tissues that potentially provides a danger signal.
Validation and implementation of the Australian Treatment Outcomes Profile in specialist drug and alcohol settings
Authors: Ryan Anni , Holmes Jennifer , Hunt Vi , Dunlop Adrian , Mammen Kristie , Holland Rohan , Sutton Yvonne , Sindhusake Doungkamol , Rivas Gonzalo , Lintzeris Nicholas
Published: November 2013

Introduction and Aims

The measurement of clinical outcomes is an important, but lacking, component of drug and alcohol treatment in Australia. This study aimed to psychometrically validate the Treatment Outcomes Profile under Australian conditions, examining implementation and feasibility issues in three public opioid treatment program clinics in NSW.

Design and Methods

The Treatment Outcomes Profile was modified to reflect Australian conditions and re‐named the Australian Treatment Outcomes Profile (ATOP). The ATOP was introduced into the participating clinics and administered by clinic staff at 3‐month intervals as part of routine clinical practice. Participants completed a research interview, consisting of the ATOP and a suite of ‘gold standard’ instruments assessing substance use and related health and welfare domains, in the 72 h following completion of a routine clinical ATOP. The researcher‐ and clinician‐administered ATOPs were compared to assess interrater reliability, and the researcher‐administered ATOP and ‘gold standard’ instruments were compared to assess concurrent validity. Implementation and feasibility issues were assessed using questionnaires and focus groups with clinician and clients.

Results

The ATOP demonstrated acceptable concurrent validity and interrater reliability. It was well received by clients and clinicians, particularly for its ease of use, applicability and brevity.

Conclusions

The ATOP is a psychometrically valid instrument for the measurement of treatment outcomes in Australian opioid treatment populations and can feasibly be implemented as part of routine clinical practice in specialist opioid treatment program clinics. The role of the ATOP to measure outcomes in other drug and alcohol treatment modalities requires exploration. [Ryan A, Holmes J, Hunt V, Dunlop A, Mammen K, Holland R, Sutton Y, Sindhusake D, Rivas G & Lintzeris N. Validation and implementation of the Australian Treatment Outcomes Profile in specialist drug and alcohol settings. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014;33:33–42]
Religion insulates ingroup evaluations: the development of intergroup attitudes in India
Authors: Dunham Yarrow , Srinivasan Mahesh , Dotsch Ron , Barner David
Published: November 2013

Research on the development of implicit intergroup attitudes has placed heavy emphasis on race, leaving open how social categories that are prominent in other cultures might operate. We investigate two of India's primary means of social distinction, caste and religion, and explore the development of implicit and explicit attitudes towards these groups in minority‐status Muslim children and majority‐status Hindu children, the latter drawn from various positions in the Hindu caste system. Results from two tests of implicit attitudes find that caste attitudes parallel previous findings for race: higher‐caste children as well as lower‐caste children have robust high‐caste preferences. However, results for religion were strikingly different: both lower‐status Muslim children and higher‐status Hindu children show strong implicit ingroup preferences. We suggest that religion may play a protective role in insulating children from the internalization of stigma.
Different early rearing experiences have long‐term effects on cortical organization in captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Bogart Stephanie L. , Bennett Allyson J. , Schapiro Steven J. , Reamer Lisa A. , Hopkins William D.
Published: November 2013

Consequences of rearing history in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) have been explored in relation to behavioral abnormalities and cognition; however, little is known about the effects of rearing conditions on anatomical brain development. Human studies have revealed that experiences of maltreatment and neglect during infancy and childhood can have detrimental effects on brain development and cognition. In this study, we evaluated the effects of early rearing experience on brain morphology in 92 captive chimpanzees (ages 11–43) who were either reared by their mothers (n = 46) or in a nursery (n = 46) with age‐group peers. Magnetic resonance brain images were analyzed with a processing program (BrainVISA) that extracts cortical sulci. We obtained various measurements from 11 sulci located throughout the brain, as well as whole brain gyrification and white and grey matter volumes. We found that mother‐reared chimpanzees have greater global white‐to‐grey matter volume, more cortical folding and thinner grey matter within the cortical folds than nursery‐reared animals. The findings reported here are the first to demonstrate that differences in early rearing conditions have significant consequences on brain morphology in chimpanzees and suggests potential differences in the development of white matter expansion and myelination.
The Role of Workfare in Striking a Balance between Incentives and Insurance in the Labour Market
Authors: Andersen Torben M. , Svarer Michael
Published: November 2013

Unemployment insurance tends to distort incentives in the labour market, affecting job search and wage formation adversely. We show in a search‐matching model that this moral hazard problem can be reduced by attaching a workfare requirement to the eligibility conditions for claiming unemployment benefits. Even when workfare has no effects on human capital or productivity, it is possible to improve labour market performance to create more jobs and lower unemployment by the introduction of workfare, and also to improve welfare. Hence the incentive structure in the labour market can be improved by workfare policies rather than benefit reductions.
The Relativity of Decreasing Inequality Between Countries
Authors: Bosmans Kristof , Decancq Koen , Decoster André
Published: November 2013

We study the evolution of population‐weighted between‐country inequality in the period 1980–2009. Whereas previous studies almost exclusively focused on relative inequality measures, we consider relative, absolute and intermediate versions of the Lorenz dominance criterion and of the S‐Gini and generalized entropy classes of inequality measures. The analysis yields robust evidence for increasing absolute inequality. Moreover, this conclusion is preserved for intermediate views substantially in the direction of the relative view. In contrast, robust evidence for decreasing inequality—be it relative, absolute or intermediate—is virtually absent. These findings challenge the widely accepted claim of decreasing between‐country inequality.
Recovery of upper limb muscle function in chronic fatigue syndrome with and without fibromyalgia
Authors: Ickmans Kelly , Meeus Mira , De Kooning Margot , Lambrecht Luc , Nijs Jo
Published: November 2013

Background

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) patients frequently complain of muscle fatigue and abnormally slow recovery, especially of the upper limb muscles during and after activities of daily living. Furthermore, disease heterogeneity has not yet been studied in relation to recovery of muscle function in CFS. Here, we examine recovery of upper limb muscle function from a fatiguing exercise in CFS patients with (CFS+FM) and without (CFS‐only) comorbid fibromyalgia and compare their results with a matched inactive control group.

Design

In this case–control study, 18 CFS‐only patients, 30 CFS+FM patients and 30 healthy inactive controls performed a fatiguing upper limb exercise test with subsequent recovery measures.

Results

There was no significant difference among the three groups for maximal handgrip strength of the non‐dominant hand. A significant worse recovery of upper limb muscle function was found in the CFS+FM, but not in de CFS‐only group compared with the controls (P < 0·05).

Conclusions

This study reveals, for the first time, delayed recovery of upper limb muscle function in CFS+FM, but not in CFS‐only patients. The results underline that CFS is a heterogeneous disorder suggesting that reducing the heterogeneity of the disorder in future research is important to make progress towards a better understanding and uncovering of mechanisms regarding the nature of divers impairments in these patients.
Evaluation of success rate of laparoscopic castration without orchidectomy in 32 mature horses
Authors: de Fourmestraux C. , Geffroy O. , Siliart B. , Albaric O. , Tessier C.
Published: November 2013

The surgical success of laparoscopic castration without orchidectomy results from avascular necrosis of the testes. However, failures and subsequent production of testosterone and stallion‐like behaviour have been previously identified. Laparoscopic castration without removal of the testes was performed in 32 horses with 2 normal descended scrotal testes betweenJuly 2006 andOctober 2012. The objectives of our study were to evaluate the success rate of laparoscopic castration without orchidectomy on descended testes in our population and assess complications and recovery time. Endocrine tests were performed after surgery and owners also asked to report on their horse's behaviour and ability to resume exercise. Castration was deemed successful if endocrine test results were in accordance with gelding values.Failed horses were castrated using a conventional technique and histology performed when possible. Basal testosterone levels decreased below 3 nmol/l after surgery in 30/32 cases. However, in 2 horses, stallion behaviour persisted and histological evaluation after inguinal castration showed residual viable tissue. Two horses maintained high testosterone levels after surgery associated with stallion‐like behaviour. Based on these results, 12.5% of horses (4/32 horses) failed to be considered a gelding based on either endocrine tests and/or histology. All horses, with one exception, were able to resume exercise less than a week after the procedure. Laparoscopic castration without orchidectomy appears to be a safe procedure. When assessing the success of laparoscopic castration, our total failure rate was 12.5% (4/32 horses) which is significantly higher than previously reported.
Microscale measurements reveal contrasting effects of photosynthesis and epiphytes on frictional drag on the surfaces of filamentous algae
Authors: Hansen Amy T. , Hondzo Miki , Sheng Jian , Sadowsky Michael J.
Published: November 2013

Filamentous algae are widespread in freshwater ecosystems worldwide with a significant presence in streams, rivers and lakes with sufficient light and nutrients. Although typically not a preferred food source for grazers, dense filamentous mats provide surfaces for epiphytic microorganisms that are more palatable, thus adding to stream productivity.

We tested the hypothesis that epiphytes change velocity gradients, and consequently shear stress and skin friction drag, near the surface of algal filaments. Using both digital holography and particle image velocimetry to measure micrometre‐scale velocity fields, we found that the surface shear stress on filamentous algae was much greater when the algae were actively photosynthesising. The presence of attached diatoms significantly reduced surface shear stress, while those filaments were photosynthesising, compared with bare filaments.

A nutrient flux model, based on boundary layer thickness and surface shear stress, predicts that nutrient flux to the surface of a photosynthesising filament under measured flow conditions will be 1.5 times greater than for a preserved (i.e. dead) filament. Modelled nutrient flux to filaments with epiphytic assemblages dominated by diatoms is 75% of the flux to bare filaments under similar flow conditions.

The proposed positive feedback between photosynthesis, surface shear stress and nutrient flux could be an important biophysical mechanism that overcomes diffusion limited nutrient supply within dense algal mats, enhancing algal survival through increased nutrient flux to actively photosynthesising filaments and decreased sloughing risk for filaments with lower rates of photosynthesis (due to epiphyte coverage or other light‐limiting factors).
An ASMT variant associated with bipolar disorder influences sleep and circadian rhythms: a pilot study
Authors: Geoffroy P. A. , Boudebesse C. , Henrion A. , Jamain S. , Henry C. , Leboyer M. , Bellivier F. , Etain B.
Published: November 2013

Patients with bipolar disorder (BD) experience persistent circadian rhythm and sleep abnormalities during periods of remission, and biological studies have shown that these patients have abnormal melatonin secretion profiles or reactivity to light. We previously reported the association with BD of a common polymorphism (rs4446909) of the promoter of the acetylserotonin O‐methyltransferase (ASMT) gene, encoding one of the two enzymes involved in melatonin biosynthesis. This variant was associated with weaker transcription and lower levels of ASMT activity in lymphoblastoid cell lines. Actigraphy, based on the use of a mobile portable device for the analysis of sleep/wake cycles in natural conditions, may be useful for studies of carriers of the at‐risk allele. We studied the association between the ASMT rs4446909 variant and sleep/activity, as assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and by actigraphy, in 53 subjects (25 patients with BD in remission and 28 healthy controls). The two groups were similar for age, sex ratio, current mood symptoms, body mass index and risk of sleep apnea syndrome. In the total sample, the GG at‐risk genotype was associated with longer sleep duration (P = 0.03), greater activity in active periods of sleep (P = 0.015) and greater interday stability (P = 0.003). These associations remained significant when disease status was included in the model. Only the association with interday stability remained significant after correction for multiple testing. This pilot study thus shows that a BD‐associated functional variant involved in the melatonin synthesis pathway influences sleep and circadian rhythms in bipolar patients in remission and controls.
Life cycle assessment of biomass production in microalgae compact photobioreactors
Authors: Silva Angela G. , Carter Richard , Merss Felipe L. M. , Corrêa Diego O. , Vargas Jose V. C. , Mariano André B. , Ordonez Juan C. , Scherer Marisa D.
Published: November 2013

This paper presents a life cycle assessment (LCA) of industrial scale microalgae biomass production in compact photobioreactor (PBR) systems (2 × 5 × 8 m) for supplying biofuel/electricity generation processes and synthesis of new materials. Other objectives are as follows: (i) to compare the impact of various raw materials, substances, and services; and (ii) to evaluate environment‐relevant aspects of the proposed system as compared to microalgae raceway ponds. The life cycle inventory assessment shows that (i) only atmospheric CO2 is used for PBR microalgae cultivation, whereas in raceway ponds, injection of CO2 from fossil origin is largely required to allow for microalgae growth; and (ii) the PBR daily production rate of dry biomass is currently at 1.5 kg m−3 day−1 for each PBR, which is 12.82 times larger than the reported average 0.117 kg m−3 day−1 raceway ponds production. It is found that in general the association of the effects of the production of steel, PVC, and the packaging contribute to more than 85% of the total impact in each analyzed category. Therefore, to achieve PBR biomass production impact reduction and sustainability, PVC and steel utilization need to be minimized, as well as packaging materials. Based on the PBR LCA results, that is, due to no CO2 injection from fossil origin and low area occupation, it is expected that high density production of truly renewable microalgae biomass could be obtained from PBR systems.
Prevalence and correlates of mild cognitive impairment in adults aged over 50 years with subjective cognitive complaints in primary care centers
Authors: Juncos‐Rabadán Onésimo , Pereiro Arturo X , Facal David , Lojo Cristina , Caamaño Juan A , Sueiro Jesús , Bóveda Julia , Eiroa Peregrina
Published: November 2013

Aim

To examine the prevalence and correlates of mild cognitive impairment in adults aged over 50 years attending primary care centers with complaints of cognitive failure.

Methods

A sample of 689 individuals aged ≥50 years with no previous diagnosis of dementia was assessed by use of the Mini‐Mental State Examination, the Cambridge Cognitive Examination‐Revised and the California Verbal Learning Test – to evaluate the mild cognitive impairment as dependent variables – and administration of a questionnaire on cognitive complaints and other instruments – to measure correlates.

Results

The prevalence of mild cognitive impairment was 31.40%, and positive associations were found for age, occupation, subjective memory complaints, reading habits and level of vocabulary. In the logistic regression, modeled mild cognitive impairment was associated with age (70 years or older), subjective cognitive complaints and level of vocabulary.

Conclusion

Almost one‐third of the adults aged ≥50 years attending primary care centers with subjective cognitive complaints were affected by mild cognitive impairment. Early evaluation of cognitive functioning is essential to establish adequate preventive and intervention strategies. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 667–673.
Postsecular Sex? Secularisation and Religious Change in the History of Sexuality in Britain
Authors: Jones Timothy W.
Published: November 2013

Histories of 20th century British religion and sexuality, and that work which connects the two, have, until recently, been structured by the secularisation thesis, the assumption that politically and culturally Christianity's influence has steadily declined in the modern era. In the history of sexuality, it is commonly assumed that from the end of the Victorian era religious categories of sexual activity were replaced by scientific categories of sexual identity. This paper examines recent developments in the history and sociology of religion around the idea of the postsecular. Analysing religious developments in secularised societies in terms of religious change rather than a teleology of decline is starting to raise new questions in the history of sexuality. Postsecular analyses in the history of sexuality help us to understand the ways in which religion has continued to influence and shape understandings of sexual desire and identity in the 20th century.
A Trail of Precious Goods: Colonial Latin American Commodity History
Authors: Bristol Joan
Published: November 2013

Products such as cacao, tobacco, sugar, cochineal, emeralds, and silver were produced or extracted and, in many cases, originated in the region now called Latin America. They became global commodities under Spanish and Portuguese colonial rule during the early modern period, roughly 1500 to 1800, when they were traded to Europe and Asia. In many cases, goods that were originally limited to elites and defined as luxuries were transformed into products destined for mass consumption. African and indigenous slavery and other forms of unfree labor were crucial in the production of colonial commodities. Commodity historians approach these goods in different ways, some taking a world systems approach to discuss the development of capitalism while others focusing on physical and esthetic taste, patterns of consumption, and social relations and status. Some commodity writers focus on consumption patterns in Europe and Asia while others focus on the production and labor side of the equation. Recently, scholars have used a commodity chain approach that looks at all stages of the process of production, commodification, circulation, and consumption.
Progesterone as a morphological regulatory factor of the male and female gerbil prostate
Authors: Fochi Ricardo A. , Santos Fernanda C. A. , Goes Rejane M. , Taboga Sebastião R.
Published: November 2013

Testosterone (T) and oestrogen are the main active steroid hormones in the male and female reproductive system respectively. In female rodents progesterone (P4), together with testosterone and oestrogen, has an essential role in the regulation of the oestrous cycle, which influences the prostate physiology through their oscillations. In this work we investigated how the male and female prostate gland of Mongolian gerbils responds to surgical castration at the start of puberty and what are the effects of T, oestradiol (E2) and P4 replacement, using both quantitative and qualitative methods. We also examined the location of the main steroid receptors present in the prostate. In the castrated animals of both sexes an intense glandular regression, along with disorganization of the stromal compartment, and abundant hyperplasia was observed. The replacement of P4 secured a mild recovery of the glandular morphology, inducing the growth of secretory cells and restoring the androgen receptor (AR) cells. The administration of P4 and E2 eliminated epithelial hyperplasia and intensified gland hypertrophy, favouring the emergence of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN). In animals treated with T and P4, even though there are some inflammatory foci and other lesions, the prostate gland revealed morphology closer to that of control animals. In summary, through the administration of P4, we could demonstrate that this hormone has anabolic characteristics, promoting hyperplasia and hypertrophy, mainly in the epithelial compartment. When combined with E2 and T, there is an accentuation of glandular hypertrophy that interrupts the development of hyperplasia and ensures the presence of a less dysplastic glandular morphology.
Current Understanding and Remaining Challenges in Modeling Long‐Term Degradation of Borosilicate Nuclear Waste Glasses
Authors: Vienna John D. , Ryan Joseph V. , Gin Stéphane , Inagaki Yaohiro
Published: November 2013

Chemical durability is not a single material property that can be uniquely measured. Instead, it is the response to a host of coupled material and environmental processes whose rates are estimated by a combination of theory, experiment and modeling. High‐level nuclear waste (HLW) glass is perhaps the most studied of any material yet there remain significant technical gaps regarding their chemical durability. The phenomena affecting the long‐term performance of HLW glasses in their disposal environment include surface reactions, transport properties to and from the reacting glass surface, and ion exchange between the solid glass and the surrounding solution and alteration products. The rates of these processes are strongly influenced and are coupled through the solution chemistry, which is in turn influenced by the reacting glass and also by reaction with the near‐field materials and precipitation of alteration products. Therefore, those processes must be understood sufficiently well to estimate or bound the performance of HLW glass in its disposal environment over geologic time scales. This article summarizes the current state of understanding of surface reactions, transport properties and ion exchange along with the near‐field materials and alteration products influences on solution chemistry and glass reaction rates. Also summarized are the remaining technical gaps along with recommended approaches to fill those technical gaps.
Safety evaluation of heavy metals exposure from consumer products
Authors: Odukudu Festus B. , Ayenimo Joseph G. , Adekunle Abolanle S. , Yusuff Adeyinka M. , Mamba Bhekie B.
Published: November 2013

The determination of heavy metals in consumer products is crucial for the safety appraisal and sources classification of human and environmental exposures. These products contain various undisclosed chemical constituents with no or little known health safety information. The public is generally unaware of these types of everyday exposure from chemical constituents of consumer products and their health consequences. In this study, we recorded a body of proof demonstrating potential harm of consumer goods, by determining concentrations of total cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), lead (Pb) and nikel (Ni contents in a variety of personal care products (n = 82) commonly used in Nigeria, using flame atomic absorption spectrometer after dry and wet digestion methods. The results of the analysis indicated that the range of Cd was 0.035 ± 0.023–0.467 ± 0.167 ppm, Cr 0.015 ± 0.009–0.435 ± 0.232 ppm, Cu 0.230 ± 0.08–0.603 ± 0.025 ppm, Zn 0.003 ± 0.005–0.743 ± 0.066 ppm, Fe 0.233 ± 0.219–1.401 ± 1.878 ppm, Pb 0.02 ± 0.007–0.2050.129 ppm and Ni 0.035 ± 0.015–0.093 ± 0.06 ppm. The values of Cd and Cr are a cause for alarm because the elements are not allowed in any amount in cosmetics. Despite the fact that zinc is essential in the body, the values obtained in this study deserves safety concerns due to cumulative effect, arising from incessant exposure.
Osmotic dehydration pretreatment for improving the quality attributes of frozen mango: effects of different osmotic solutes and concentrations on the samples
Authors: Zhao Jin‐Hong , Hu Rui , Xiao Hong‐Wei , Yang Yang , Liu Fang , Gan Zhi‐Lin , Ni Yuan‐Ying
Published: November 2013

The effect of osmotic dehydration pretreatment on the quality attributes (e.g. colour, hardness, drip loss, vitamin C content and pH) of frozen mango cuboids in different osmotic solutions (sucrose, glucose and maltose) and concentrations (30, 45 and 60% (wt/wt)) was investigated. Results revealed that melting temperature of mango cuboids was affected by both solute type and solid mass fraction. In addition, the dehydrofrozen samples pretreated in maltose had higher quality in vitamin C content (increasing by 23.5–73.0%), colour (colour change reducing by 2.6–39.2%) and drip loss (reducing by 0.7–9.7%) than those pretreated in other osmotic solutions. The cuboids pretreated in glucose displayed higher hardness (increasing by 16.4–36.2%). Based on principal component analysis and group distance, osmotic dehydration in 45% maltose was proposed as the most favourable freezing conditions with the highest sensory score (6.8). The current work indicates osmotic dehydration significantly improves frozen mango quality.
Comparative study of proximate composition and amino acid in farmed and wild Pseudobagrus ussuriensis muscles
Authors: Wang Yuyu , Yu Shiliang , Ma Guojun , Chen Songbo , Shi Ye , Yang Yuhong
Published: November 2013

The proximate composition and amino acid compositions of the muscle of wild and farmed Pseudobagrus ussuriensis were compared. The lipid content of the farmed fish was significantly higher, while moisture content was significantly lower, than those of the wild fish. Pseudobagrus ussuriensis protein has a well‐balanced amino acid composition. The percentages of total amino acids, essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids and delicious amino acids were significantly higher in the wild than those in farmed fish. The ratios of WEAA to WTAA (42.78%–43.02%) and WEAA to WNEAA (85.52%–87.74%) were comparable to the reference values of 40% and above 60% recommended by FAO/WHO. According to the amino acid scores, methionine would have been described as the first limiting amino acid, and Lys had the highest score for the protein in both wild and farmed Pseudobagrus ussuriensis. This study shows that Pseudobagrus ussuriensis under investigation have high nutritional qualities and are good protein resources.
Quality and hygiene of beef burgers in relation to the addition of sodium ascorbate, sodium citrate and sodium acetate
Authors: Stella Simone , Tirloni Erica , Ripamonti Barbara , Lamanuzzi Francesca , Cattaneo Patrizia
Published: November 2013

We evaluated the effects of two additive mixtures (sodium ascorbate 1 g kg−1, sodium citrate 1 g kg−1 and sodium acetate 1.75 or 2.5 g kg−1) on the microbiological and physical–chemical characteristics of non‐prepacked beef burgers stored in air at 4 °C or 12 °C for 96 h. Total microbial count reached 7 Log CFU g−1 48 h later in treated samples at 4 °C. The mixture containing the higher acetate concentration led to a smaller increase in Gram‐negatives, in particular Pseudomonas (2 Log of difference towards control samples at 96 h); at 12 °C, a 1.7 Log difference in Enterobacteriaceae was also shown. Total viable basic nitrogen was significantly lower in the treated samples at 12 °C. The addition resulted in pH stabilisation and lower cooking loss and positively influenced the a* index of burgers at 4 °C. Clearly, the use of these mixtures should not be a substitute of good hygienic practices and optimal storage conditions.
Effect of using bentonite during fermentation on protein stabilisation and sensory properties of white wine
Authors: Lira Eugenio , Salazar Fernando N. , Rodríguez‐Bencomo Juan J. , Vincenzi Simone , Curioni Andrea , López Francisco
Published: November 2013

The bentonite use to remove proteins from white wine is a widespread practice that prevents protein haze formation after bottling. However, an excess of bentonite can have negative effects on both the aromatic profile of young white wines and the quality of the foam of sparkling wines. Therefore, the optimisation of bentonite amount to be used and the moment of its application during winemaking to minimise wine quality losses are of great interest for winemakers. This paper analyses how applying an equal bentonite dose at different stages (must clarification; beginning, middle and end of fermentation) on two scales (industrial and pilot) affects the protein content and stability, physical–chemical characteristics, aromatic profile and foam quality of the obtained wines. No important differences in the oenological parameters were observed between industrial and pilot scales, whereas the scale of the experimental treatments affected protein stability, aroma composition and foam quality of the wines.
Extraction and physicochemical properties of soya bean protein and oil by a new reverse micelle system compared with other extraction methods
Authors: Bu Guanhao , Yang Yingying , Chen Fusheng , Liao Zhixiong , Gao Yanxiu , Yang Hongshun , Li Runjie , Liu Kunlun , Zhao Junting
Published: November 2013

Reverse micelle extraction is a novel technology for the separation of plant components such as proteins and oil. In this study, sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl) sulphosuccinate (AOT) reverse micelle system and AOT/Tween 85 reverse micelle system were used to extract soya bean protein and oil from soya bean flour. The physicochemical properties of the protein and oil extracted were investigated and compared with traditional extraction methods. The results showed that the efficiency of forward extraction of soya bean protein using an AOT/Tween 85 reverse micelle system was superior to that using an AOT reverse micelle system at the optimal extraction conditions. In addition, soya bean proteins extracted using reverse micelle extraction had no unordered structure under Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The acid and peroxide values of oil products from two reverse micelle extractions were lower than that from immersion. The results indicated that AOT/Tween 85 reverse micelle system is effective in extracting soya bean protein and oil.
The split plot with repeated randomised complete block design can reduce psychological biases in consumer acceptance testing
Authors: Jirangrat Wannita , Wang Jing , Sriwattana Sujinda , No Hong Kyoon , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: November 2013

A randomised complete block design (RCBD) has been extensively used in consumer testing; however, it is ineffective in preventing sample presentation biases. This study demonstrated a more efficient experimental design [i.e. split plot with repeated randomised complete block design (SPRRCBD)] to help minimise positional and first serving‐order (FSO) biases in consumer tests. Results suggested that positional biases were strongly pronounced for the poor‐quality sample. Comparing between RCBD and RCBD without FSO experiments, there were significant differences in overall liking (OL) scores of the same sample served at the same position. Hence, omitting the first sample score from data analysis was not recommended. The mean‐squared error (MSE) of SPRRCBD was lower than RCBD and RCBD without FSO (2.28, 2.72 and 2.60, respectively), indicating a more powerful design to explain variations in mean hedonic differences. SPRRCBD extracted more explained variances, resulting in a decreased Type‐II error in the model.
Textural properties of yogurts with green tea and Pu‐erh tea additive
Authors: Najgebauer‐Lejko Dorota , Żmudziński Daniel , Ptaszek Anna , Socha Robert
Published: November 2013

Set‐style yogurts enriched with green tea or Pu‐erh tea infusions in three concentrations, that is, 5%, 10% and 15% (v/v), and the nonsupplemented yogurts were produced. The obtained cultured milk treatments were subjected to the analyses of acidity, viscoelastic properties, back extrusion parameters, susceptibility to syneresis and instrumental colour analysis. As revealed by the performed HPLC and spectrophotometric studies, the two types of tea differed greatly in their polyphenolic composition which was further reflected in the physicochemical properties of yogurt gels. Results indicate that yogurts varied as regards textural properties depending on the type of tea applied as well as tea concentration. Green tea incorporation, which contained significantly higher amounts of catechins, produced yogurts with increased titratable acidity, better mechanical properties and less susceptible to syneresis, while yogurt gels with Pu‐erh tea were firmer, less elastic and with visible syneresis at higher (10%, 15%) tea concentrations.
The Burden of Stroke in México
Authors: Marquez-Romero Juan M , Arauz Antonio , Góngora-Rivera Fernando , Barinagarrementeria Fernando , Cantú Carlos
Published: November 2013

Regrettably, stroke has been scarcely studied in México, and the available data suffer from great variability in diagnostic testing, risk factor definitions, and poor generalizability. The current cumulative incidence of stroke in Mexico is 232·2 per 100 000, whereas prevalence among people aged 60 years or older is 18·2 per 1000.

Hypertension and diabetes are the main risk factors. Ischemic stroke is the most frequent sub-type. Stroke mortality has been increasing during last years, and 30-day case fatality rate doubles at one-year follow-up. A remarkable finding of a hospital-based registry was that most of ischemic stroke cases are of undetermined etiology and even when a quarter of patients arrive on time for thrombolysis, less than 1% received this management.