bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which little piggy goes to market? Characteristics of US farmers' market shoppers
Authors: Zepeda Lydia
Published: April 2009

The growth in farmers' markets in the US has raised questions about whether they are a niche market or appeal to a broader population. Using a simple, random sample of US food shoppers, this study uses a test of means to examine whether there are differences in characteristics between those who shop at farmers' markets and those who do not. A key finding was that there was no significant difference in the level of food expenditures between shoppers and non‐shoppers. In addition, a probit model was used to examine the marginal effects of attitudinal, behavioural and demographic variables on the probability of shopping at a farmers' market. The probability was significantly increased by the following: enjoyment and frequency of cooking, being female and the presence of another adult in the household. Income did not significantly influence the probability of shopping at a farmers' market. However, the probability of shopping at a farmers' market was significantly reduced if respondents perceived that cost was the most important characteristic of food. These characteristics imply limited appeal of farmers' markets currently to convenience‐oriented, single‐person, and single‐parent households.
Nefiracetam activation of CaM kinase II and protein kinase C mediated by NMDA and metabotropic glutamate receptors in olfactory bulbectomized mice
Authors: Moriguchi Shigeki , Han Feng , Shioda Norifumi , Yamamoto Yui , Nakajima Takeharu , Nakagawasai Osamu , Tadano Takeshi , Yeh Jay Z. , Narahashi Toshio , Fukunaga Kohji
Published: April 2009

Aberrant behaviors related to learning and memory in olfactory bulbectomized (OBX) mice have been documented in the previous studies. We reported that the impairment of long‐term potentiation (LTP) of hippocampal CA1 regions from OBX mice was associated with down‐regulation of CaM kinase II (CaMKII) and protein kinase C (PKC) activities. We now demonstrated that the nootropic drug, nefiracetam, significantly improved spatial reference memory‐related behaviors as assessed by Y‐maze and novel object recognition task in OBX mice. Nefiracetam also restored hippocampal LTP injured in OBX mice. Nefiracetam treatment restored LTP‐induced PKCα (Ser657) and NR1 (Ser896) phosphorylation as well as increase in their basal phosphorylation in the hippocampal CA1 region of OBX mice. Likewise, nefiracetam improved LTP‐induced CaMKIIα (Thr286) autophosphorylation and GluR1 (Ser831) phosphorylation and increased their basal phosphorylation. The enhancement of PKCα (Ser657) and CaMKIIα (Thr286) autophosphorylation by nefiracetam was inhibited by treatment with (±)‐α‐Methyl‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)glycine and DL‐2‐Amino‐5‐phosphonovaleric acid, respectively. The enhancement of LTP induced by nefiracetam is inhibited by treatment with 2‐methyl‐6‐(phenylethynyl)‐pyridine, but not by treatment with LY367385, suggesting that metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) but not mGluR1 is involved in the nefiracetam‐induced LTP enhancement. Taken together, nefiracetam ameliorates OBX‐induced deficits in memory‐related behaviors and impairment of LTP in the hippocampal CA1 region through activation of NMDAR and mGluR5, thereby leading to an increase in activities of CaMKIIα (Thr286) and PKCα (Ser657), respectively.
PrPc activation induces neurite outgrowth and differentiation in PC12 cells: role for caveolin‐1 in the signal transduction pathway
Authors: Pantera Barbara , Bini Chiara , Cirri Paolo , Paoli Paolo , Camici Guido , Manao Giampaolo , Caselli Anna
Published: April 2009

Cellular prion protein (PrPc) is a ubiquitous glycoprotein, whose physiological role is poorly characterized. It has been suggested that PrPc participates in neuritogenesis, neuroprotection, copper metabolism, and signal transduction. In this study we detailed the intracellular events induced by PrPc antibody‐mediated cross‐linking in PC12 cells. We found a Fyn‐dependent activation of the Ras‐Raf pathway, which leads to a rapid and transient phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinases. In addition, this activation cascade relies on the engagement of integrins, and involves focal adhesion kinase activation. We demonstrated the tyrosine phosphorylation of caveolin‐1 as a consequence of PrPc stimulation, and showed that phosphocaveolin‐1 scaffolds and coordinates protein complexes involved in PrPc‐dependent signaling. Moreover, we found that caveolin‐1 phosphorylation, is a mechanism for recruiting the C‐terminal Src kinase and inactivating Fyn, so as to terminate cell signaling. Furthermore our data support a significant role for PrPc as a response mediator in neuritogenesis and cell differentiation.
Mild cholesterol depletion reduces amyloid‐β production by impairing APP trafficking to the cell surface
Authors: Guardia‐Laguarta Cristina , Coma Mireia , Pera Marta , Clarimón Jordi , Sereno Lidia , Agulló José M. , Molina‐Porcel Laura , Gallardo Eduard , Deng Amy , Berezovska Oksana , Hyman Bradley T. , Blesa Rafael , Gómez‐Isla Teresa , Lleó Alberto
Published: April 2009

It has been suggested that cellular cholesterol levels can modulate the metabolism of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) but the underlying mechanism remains controversial. In the current study, we investigate in detail the relationship between cholesterol reduction, APP processing and γ‐secretase function in cell culture studies. We found that mild membrane cholesterol reduction led to a decrease in Aβ40 and Aβ42 in different cell types. We did not detect changes in APP intracellular domain or Notch intracellular domain generation. Western blot analyses showed a cholesterol‐dependent decrease in the APP C‐terminal fragments and cell surface APP. Finally, we applied a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)‐based technique to study APP–Presenilin 1 (PS1) interactions and lipid rafts in intact cells. Our data indicate that cholesterol depletion reduces association of APP into lipid rafts and disrupts APP–PS1 interaction. Taken together, our results suggest that mild membrane cholesterol reduction impacts the cleavage of APP upstream of γ‐secretase and appears to be mediated by changes in APP trafficking and partitioning into lipid rafts.
New light on the serotonergic paradox in the rat circadian system
Authors: Cuesta Marc , Clesse Daniel , Pévet Paul , Challet Etienne
Published: April 2009

The main mammalian circadian clock, localized in the suprachiasmatic nuclei can be synchronized not only with light, but also with serotonergic activation. Serotonergic agonists and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine) have a non‐photic influence (shifting effects during daytime and attenuation of photic resetting during nighttime) on hamsters’ and mice’ main clock. Surprisingly, in rats serotonergic modulation of the clock shows essentially photic‐like featuresin vivo(shifting effects during nighttime). To delineate this apparent paradox, we analyzed the effects of fluoxetine and serotonin agonists on rats’ clock. First, fluoxetine induced behavioral phase‐advances associated with down‐regulated expression of the clock genesPer1andRorβand up‐regulated expression ofRev‐erbαduring daytime. Moreover, fluoxetine produced an attenuation of light‐induced phase‐advances in association with altered expression ofPer1,Per2andRorβduring nighttime. Second, we showed that 5‐HT1Areceptors ‐maybe with co‐activation of 5‐HT7receptors‐ were implicated in non‐photic effects on the main clock. By contrast, 5‐HT3and 5‐HT2Creceptors were involved in photic‐like effects and, for 5‐HT2Csubtype only, in potentiation of photic resetting. Thus this study demonstrates that as for other nocturnal rodents, a global activation of the serotonergic system induces non‐photic effects in the rats’ clock during daytime and nighttime.
Medicines submitted to narcotics regulations in France, 1992–2007
Authors: Baumevieille Marie , Daveluy Amélie , Maurain Catherine , Bégaud Bernard , Haramburu Françoise
Published: April 2009

The objective was to study the current narcotics regulations which are the most restrictive regarding prescription and dispensation practice in France, and their evolution over the period 1992–2007. This is an example of regulation in a European member state regarding medicines with a risk of abuse or dependence. Narcotics regulations were studied in the French public health code. Status and indications of medicines concerned were found on the French medicine agency website, and the retrospective part of the study was conducted using the French public statute law website. Seventeen medicines were found. Three were psychotropics and fourteen narcotics. The prescription rules could be different for a given substance according to the route of administration or indication. In 2007, half of the narcotic opioids could be prescribed for 28 days, whereas in 1992, most of them could be prescribed for only 7 days. These results show the adaptation of French narcotics regulations, with the development of medicines indicated in acute or chronic pain treatment or opioid maintenance treatment.
Networks of Empire: Linkage and Reciprocity in Nineteenth‐Century Irish and Indian History
Authors: Crosbie Barry
Published: April 2009

Recent debates surrounding Ireland's historical relationship with the British empire have focused almost exclusively upon its constitutional and political ties with Britain. The question of Ireland's colonial status continues to be heavily debated in Irish historiography and has been a contributing factor in obscuring our wider understanding of the complexity of Ireland's involvement in empire. For over 200 years, Ireland and India were joined together by an intricate series of networks that were borne out of direct Irish involvement in British imperialism overseas. Whether as migrants, soldiers, administrators, doctors, missionaries or educators, the Irish played an important role in administering, governing and populating vast areas of Britain's eastern empire. This article discusses new approaches to the study of Ireland's imperial past that allow us to move beyond the old ‘coloniser‐colonised’ debate, to address the key issue of whether Ireland or the varieties of Irishness of its imperial servants and settlers made a specific difference to the experience of empire. By highlighting the multiplicity of Irish connections within the context of the nineteenth‐century British empire in India, this article describes how imperial networks were used by contemporaries (settlers, migrants and indigenous agents) as mechanisms for the exchange of a whole set of ideas, practices and goods between Ireland and India during the colonial era.
The History of Medieval Theatre / Theatre of Medieval History: Dramatic Documents and the Performance of the Past
Authors: Symes Carol
Published: April 2009

Theatre history has long been a sub‐discipline of literary criticism or, more recently, performance studies; it is usually not the province of trained historians. While potentially problematic for the study of any period, this trend has had a particularly limiting effect on the study of medieval drama and its larger historical contexts. This article explains why, offers a brief overview of medieval theatre's modern history and the current state of intellectual inquiry, and then suggests some historical uses of dramatic texts and of performance itself as an analytical category.
Botulinum Toxin A in the Treatment of Chronic Tension‐Type Headache With Cervical Myofascial Trigger Points: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Harden R. Norman , Cottrill Jerod , Gagnon Christine M. , Smitherman Todd A. , Weinland Stephan R. , Tann Beverley , Joseph Petra , Lee Thomas S. , Houle Timothy T.
Published: April 2009

Objective.— To evaluate the efficacy of botulinum toxin A (BT‐A) as a prophylactic treatment for chronic tension‐type headache (CTTH) with myofascial trigger points (MTPs) producing referred head pain.

Background.— Although BT‐A has received mixed support for the treatment of TTH, deliberate injection directly into the cervical MTPs very often found in this population has not been formally evaluated.

Methods.— Patients with CTTH and specific MTPs producing referred head pain were assigned randomly to receive intramuscular injections of BT‐A or isotonic saline (placebo) in a double‐blind design. Daily headache diaries, pill counts, trigger point pressure algometry, range of motion assessment, and responses to standardized pain and psychological questionnaires were used as outcome measures; patients returned for follow‐up assessment at 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months post injection. After 3 months, all patients were offered participation in an open‐label extension of the study. Effect sizes were calculated to index treatment effects among the intent‐to‐treat population; individual time series models were computed for average pain intensity.

Results.— The 23 participants reported experiencing headache on a near‐daily basis (average of 27 days/month). Compared with placebo, patients in the BT‐A group reported greater reductions in headache frequency during the first part of the study (P = .013), but these effects dissipated by week 12. Reductions in headache intensity over time did not differ significantly between groups (P = .80; maximum d = 0.13), although a larger proportion of BT‐A patients showed evidence of statistically significant improvements in headache intensity in the time series analyses (62.5% for BT‐A vs 30% for placebo). There were no differences between the groups on any of the secondary outcome measures.

Conclusions.— The evidence for BT‐A in headache is mixed, and even more so in CTTH. However, the putative technique of injecting BT‐A directly into the ubiquitous MTPs in CTTH is partially supported in this pilot study. Definitive trials with larger samples are needed to test this hypothesis further.
Migrainous Prolonged and Reversible Bilateral Inferior Altitudinal Visual Field Defect
Authors: Razeghinejad Mohammad R. , Masoumpour Masoumeh , Bagheri Mohammad H.
Published: April 2009

Migrainous patients may have visual field deficits at times between migraine attacks that mostly are unilateral and resolve after 7‐10 days. Herein, we report a 25‐year‐old woman, a known case of classic migraine, with bilateral inferior altitudinal visual field defect and complete recovery after 4 months. All lab tests, including brain magnetic resolution imaging and angiography, coagulation tests and visual evoked potentials, were normal.
Migraine Treatment With Rizatriptan and Almotriptan: A Crossover Study
Authors: Ng‐Mak Daisy S. , Hu X. H. , Bigal Marcelo
Published: April 2009

Background.— Rizatriptan and almotriptan are effective and well‐tolerated triptans that have not been compared directly.

Objective.— To evaluate the effectiveness of rizatriptan 10 mg and almotriptan for the acute treatment of migraine, in a real‐world setting.

Methods.— Of a large, multicenter, open‐label, crossover study, we conducted a substudy to contrast the effectiveness of rizatriptan 10 mg and almotriptan 12.5 mg for the acute treatment of 2 migraine attacks in a sequential, crossover manner. Time to outcome was assessed using stopwatches. Mean and median times to onset of pain relief (PR) and pain freedom (PF) for rizatriptan and almotriptan were compared. The effect of rizatriptan on times to onset of PR and PF, adjusting for potential confounding factors (treatment sequence, treatment order, and use of rescue medication), was computed via a Cox proportional hazard model.

Results.— Out of the 146 patients taking almotriptan as their usual care medication, 79 used stopwatch for both attacks. Significantly more patients taking rizatriptan achieved onset of PR within 2 hours after dosing than those taking almotriptan (88.6% vs 73.4%, P = .007). A higher proportion of patients taking rizatriptan achieved PF within 2 hours after dosing than those taking almotriptan (55.7% vs 45.6%, P = .10). Times to onset of PR and PF were significantly shorter with those patients taking rizatriptan than with those taking almotriptan (median time to PR: 45 vs 60 minutes, P = .002; median time to PF: 100 vs 135 minutes, P = .004). The adjusted proportional hazard ratios (rizatriptan vs almotriptan) for times to onset of PR and PF were 1.51 (95% confidence interval 1.20 to 1.88) and 1.42 (95% confidence interval 1.15 to 1.76), respectively. More patients were very satisfied when treating their attacks with rizatriptan than with almotriptan. Rizatriptan was preferred by most patients.

Conclusions.— Times to achieve PR and PF were significantly shorter for patients using rizatriptan, as compared with those using almotriptan.
Can Indomethacin Act as a Disease Modifying Agent in Hemicrania Continua? A Supportive Clinical Case
Authors: Rozen Todd D.
Published: April 2009

The natural history of hemicrania continua (HC) is not well‐known. Most sufferers have the unremitting form and thus may have a lifetime duration of pain. There are only very rare cases in the literature documenting HC remission after treatment of the unremitting form with indomethacin. As the prolonged use of indomethacin can cause tremendous medical morbidity, knowledge of its true action on the course of HC is essential. The question arises: Does indomethacin have disease‐modifying capacities for HC or does it just suppress the pain without altering the underlying disease pathogenesis? A case patient is presented who had indomethacin‐responsive unremitting HC and after a period of daily use of indomethacin she was able to reduce her dose to one single 25‐mg tablet 3 days per week and still remain pain free, suggesting disease modification. The case patient's history will be further discussed as well as the consideration that in some instances indomethacin can alter the natural history of HC.
Acute Myocardial Infarction With Sumatriptan: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Chalaupka Flavio Devetag
Published: April 2009

We report a case of myocardial infarction associated with the use of sumatriptan and review the literature regarding similar cases. A 54‐year‐old woman with a history of migraine without aura, mild arterial hypertension, depression, and no history of coronary artery disease was admitted to our hospital for acute myocardial infarction, 30 minutes after using 6 mg of subcutaneous sumatriptan. Coronary angiography performed several days later revealed a normal coronary arterial system. Although at discharge the patient was advised to permanently avoid triptans, she continued the use of oral sumatriptan at low dosage (25‐50 mg) without any problems.
Electroconvulsive seizure thresholds and kindling acquisition rates are altered in mouse models of human KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 mutations for benign familial neonatal convulsions
Authors: Otto James F. , Singh Nanda A. , Dahle E. Jill , Leppert Mark F. , Pappas Chris M. , Pruess Timothy H. , Wilcox Karen S. , White H. Steve
Published: April 2009

Purpose:  Benign familial neonatal convulsions (BFNC) is caused by mutations in the KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 genes, which encode subunits of the M‐type potassium channel. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of orthologous BFNC‐causing mutations on seizure thresholds and the acquisition of corneal kindling in mice with heterozygous expression of the mutations.

Methods:  The effects of the Kcnq2 gene A306T mutation and the Kcnq3 gene G311V mutation were determined for minimal clonic, minimal tonic hindlimb extension, and partial psychomotor seizures. The rate of corneal kindling acquisition was also determined for Kcnq2 A306T and Kcnq3 G311V mice.

Results:  Seizure thresholds were significantly altered relative to wild‐type animals in the minimal clonic, minimal tonic hindlimb extension, and partial psychomotor seizure models. Differences in seizure threshold were found to be dependent on the mutation expressed, the seizure testing paradigm, the genetic background strain, and the gender of the animal. Mutations in Kcnq2 and Kcnq3 were associated with an increased rate of corneal kindling. In the Kcnq2 A306T mice, an increased incidence of death occurred during and immediately following the conclusion of the kindling acquisition period.

Conclusions:  These results suggest that genetic alterations in the subunits that underlie the M‐current and cause BFNC alter seizure susceptibility in a sex‐, mouse strain‐, and seizure‐test dependent manner. Although the heterozygous mice do not appear to have spontaneous seizures, the increased seizure susceptibility and incidence of death during and after kindling suggests that these mutations lead to altered excitability in these animals.
Development and Cross–Cultural Application of a Specific Instrument to Measure Entrepreneurial Intentions
Authors: Liñán Francisco , Chen Yi–Wen
Published: April 2009

This article uses Ajzen's theory of planned behavior to build an entrepreneurial intention questionnaire (EIQ) and analyzes its psychometric properties. The entrepreneurial intention model is then tested on a 519–individual sample from two rather diverse countries: Spain and Taiwan. EIQ and structural equation techniques have been used to try to overcome previous research limitations. The role of culture in explaining motivational perceptions has been specifically considered. Results indicate EIQ properties are satisfactory and strong support for the model is found. Relevant insights are derived about how cultural values modify the way individuals in each society perceive entrepreneurship.
Individual Entrepreneurial Intent: Construct Clarification and Development of an Internationally Reliable Metric
Authors: Thompson Edmund R.
Published: April 2009

Individual entrepreneurial intent is a key construct in research on new business formation. However, neither a clear or consistent definition of nor a uniform and reliable way to measure individual entrepreneurial intent has yet emerged. Several management scholars have highlighted the impediment this constitutes to the advancement of entrepreneurship research. This paper first seeks to clarify the construct of individual entrepreneurial intent and then reports the development and validation of a reliable and internationally applicable individual entrepreneurial intent scale.
Assessment of Left Ventricular Systolic Synchronization in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Narrow QRS Complexes
Authors: Gedikli Omer , Baykan Merih , Kaynar Kubra , Ozkan Gulsum , Korkmaz Levent , Ozturk Serkan , Durmus Ismet , Kaplan Sahin , Celik Sukru
Published: April 2009

Objective: The evidence of structural and functional cardiac abnormalities has been demonstrated by echocardiography in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study investigated whether left ventricular (LV) asynchrony is present in patients with CKD and normal QRS duration. Methods: Tissue synchronization imaging (TSI) was performed in 25 (56 ± 14 years) patients with CKD and narrow QRS complexes and 25 (51 ± 12 years) control subjects. LV asynchrony was identified on TSI images and the time to regional peak systolic velocity (Ts) in LV was measured by the six‐basal–six‐midsegmental model. Four TSI parameters of systolic asynchrony were computed when Ts was measured in ejection phase. Results: The standard deviation of Ts of 12 LV segments (33.6 ± 17.8 vs 16.7 ± 10 ms, P = 0.0001), standard deviation of Ts of the six basal LV segments (30 ± 20 vs 17.6 ± 9.6 ms, P = 0.008), maximal difference in Ts between any two of the 12 LV segments (102 ± 45 vs 54 ± 32 ms, P = 0.0001), and maximal difference in Ts between any two of the six basal LV segments (78 ± 50 vs 46 ± 22 ms, P = 0.007) were prolonged in patients with CKD compared with controls. The prevalence of LV systolic asynchrony was significantly higher in patients with CKD compared with controls (44% vs 12%, P = 0.01). The standard deviation of Ts of 12 LV segments were significantly associated with LV diameters, LV volumes, LV mass, blood pressure levels, and renal functions in univariate analysis. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that LV systolic asynchrony may develop in patients with CKD.
Continuing Medical Education Program in Echocardiography
Authors: Fan Pohoey , Tobar Ricardo , Rotzak Renee , Rozeman Yoseph
Published: April 2009

Article Title: Apical Thrombus Associated with Tako‐tsubo Cardiomyopathy in a Young Women
The Moderating Influence of Homophobia and Gender‐Role Traditionality on Perceptions of Male Rape Victims1
Authors: White Sandy , Yamawaki Niwako
Published: April 2009

This study investigated the influence of homophobia and gender‐role traditionality (GRT) on perceptions of male rape victims. Victims were assigned more blame in acquaintance rape than in stranger rape, and homosexual victims were blamed more than were heterosexual victims. Homophobia predicted patterns in rape minimization only when the victim was homosexual. Homophobia also predicted patterns of victim blame attribution in both homosexual and heterosexual victims, with a greater impact when the victim was homosexual. GRT predicted patterns of rape minimization in acquaintance rape, but not in stranger rape; and GRT did not predict differences in victim blame attribution.
Religious Fundamentalism as Schema: Influences on Memory for Religious Information
Authors: Galen Luke W. , Wolfe Michael B. W. , Deleeuw Jamie , Wyngarden Nicole
Published: April 2009

Those with differing levels of religious fundamentalism (RF) may be selective in their memory for religious information. In Study 1, participants read a text about money or sex, with a judgmental or not‐judgmental message. Higher RF was associated with more accurate recall and fewer intrusions. In Study 2, participants high or low in RF read texts about sex. High‐RF participants had more accurate recall and fewer intrusions. However, high‐RF participants had more recognition false alarms to sentences that were not presented. High RF may aid memory for religious information, but also increase familiarity of related but not presented information. Exposure to not‐judgmental messages decreased RF scores, suggesting that textual messages can impact responses to fundamentalism scales.
The Role of Omission Neglect in Response to Non‐Gains and Non‐Losses in Gasoline Price Fluctuations
Authors: Bechkoff Jennifer , Krishnan Vijaykumar , Niculescu Mihai , Kohne Mary Lou , Palmatier Robert W. , Kardes Frank R.
Published: April 2009

Research on omission neglect has shown that people are insensitive to many different types of missing, unmentioned, or unknown information. However, prior research has not examined the role of omission neglect in non‐gain and non‐loss framing. The present research shows that gain/loss framing effects are greater than non‐gain/non‐loss framing effects on judgments of the ease with which various scenarios can be imagined, judgments of believability, attributions to price gouging, and attributions to inflation. The results also show that negative outcomes are more influential than are positive outcomes in judgments of imaginability, believability, and fairness, and in attribution judgments. Considered together, the results suggest that omission neglect plays an important role in insensitivity to non‐gains and non‐losses.
The Determinants and Consequences of Intragroup Respect: An Examination Within a Sporting Context1
Authors: Prestwich Andrew , Lalljee Mansur
Published: April 2009

Although the term respect is widely used in society, its determinants and consequences on group‐related factors are unclear. In 4 studies (2 pilot studies, validation study, main study), we examined these issues. In the main study, high‐level rowing crew members completed measures of respect, liking, and group identification pre‐ and post‐competition; and attribution items post‐competition. Although respect and liking did not predict team success, success was associated with subsequent levels of respect, but not liking. The effect of success on group identification was mediated by respect. Moderation analyses indicated that intragroup liking, but not respect, increased the likelihood of group‐serving attributions. Results highlight the determinants of respect and its role in group processes and outcomes, and distinguish respect from liking.
Runt‐related gene 2 is involved in the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase‐13 expression by roxithromycin in human gingival epithelial cell cultures
Authors: Tabuchi Seiko , Sakuta Tetsuya , Oyama Tohru , Tokuda Masayuki , Tatsuyama Syouko , Kajihara Takehiro , Nagaoka Shigetaka , Beppu Mahiro , Sugihara Kazumasa , Ikebe Tetsuro , Shirasuna Kanemitsu , Torii Mitsuo
Published: April 2009

Background and Objective:  Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐13 has wide substrate specificity compared with other MMPs and appears to be involved in periodontitis. Previously, we reported that roxithromycin (RXM) inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor expression induced by tumour necrosis factor‐α in human periodontal ligament cells, but little is known about the effect of RXM on MMP‐13 expression in human gingival epithelial cells. We therefore examined the effect of RXM on MMP‐13 mRNA expression and production in cultured human gingival epithelial cells.

Material and Methods:  Human epithelial cell lines (Ca9‐22, TU4, SCCTF and HSC‐3) were plated in tissue culture dishes. Then, the culture supernatants and sediments were collected and the production of MMP‐13 was analysed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay; the expression of MMP‐13 mRNA and runt‐related gene 2 mRNA was assessed using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and real‐time RT‐PCR. We also studied the effect of Runx2 short interfering RNA (siRNA) on the induction of MMP‐13.

Results:  Roxithromycin downregulated the induction of MMP‐13 in Ca9‐22 cells. Roxithromycin suppressed the expression of MMP‐13 mRNA not only in Ca9‐22 cells, but also in other human epithelial cell lines. Roxithromycin strongly inhibited the expression of Runx2 mRNA. Furthermore, Runx2 siRNA inhibited the induction of MMP‐13 in Ca9‐22 cells.

Conclusion:  These results indicate that RXM suppresses MMP‐13 via the downregulation of Runx2 in human gingival epithelial cell cultures.
A review of EEG and ERP studies in bipolar disorder
Authors: Degabriele Racheal , Lagopoulos Jim
Published: April 2009

Objective:

The electroencephalogram (EEG) can be a useful tool in determining differences in general neural activity and specific waveforms in individuals with a number of psychiatric disorders. This paper aims to outline and discuss significant findings in EEG and event-related potential (ERP) research into bipolar disorder (BD).

Methods:

A literature review was performed through searches of MedLine, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycInfo medical research databases for papers published from 1985 onwards. References of selected articles were also examined for other relevant studies.

Results:

Differences in general EEG data were found in subjects with BD, namely increased theta and delta and decreased alpha wave bands. Changes in EEG were also found in euthymic BD subjects and those undergoing medication programmes. ERP studies commonly report prolonged latencies and reduced amplitudes in the P300 component. Hyperfunctioning of the right hemisphere in BD was also reported in some studies, although further confirmation of this finding is required. Finally, the effects of medication and the role that genetics plays in EEG still remain unclear.

Conclusions:

The literature reviewed demonstrates supporting evidence for the presence of significant differences in EEG and ERP data in subjects with BD. However, methodological considerations such as varying mood states and medication status of the patients need to be followed more stringently for future research to bring about a robust model of the cognitive deficits of BD.
The Clitoral Complex: A Dynamic Sonographic Study
Authors: Foldes Pierre , Buisson Odile
Published: April 2009

Introduction

The existence of the G-spot remains controversial partly because no appropriate structure and innervation have been clearly demonstrated in this pleasurable vaginal area. Using sonography, we wanted to visualize the movements of the clitoris and its anatomical relationship with the anterior wall of the vagina during voluntary perineal contraction and vaginal penetration without sexual stimulation.

Aim

The aim of this presentation is to provide a dynamic sonographic study of the clitoris and to describe the movements of the quiescent clitoral complex during a voluntary perineal contraction. We aim to visualize the mechanical consequences of the pressure of the anterior vaginal wall with women who claim to have a special sensitivity of the G-spot area and vaginal orgasm. Histology and immunohistochemistry of the G-spot and other female genital tissues are beyond the scope of this study and have not been discussed.

Method

The ultrasounds were performed in five healthy volunteers with the Voluson® General Electric® Sonography system (GE Healthcare, Zipf, Austria), with a 12-MHz flat probe, and with a vaginal probe. We used functional sonography of the quiescent clitoris with voluntary perineal contractions and with finger penetration without sexual stimulation.

Main Outcome Measures

We focused on the size of the clitoris (raphe, glans, and clitoral bodies) and of the length of the movements of the clitoris during voluntary perineal contractions.

Results

The coronal planes during perineal contraction and finger penetration demonstrated a close relationship between the root of the clitoris and the anterior vaginal wall.

Conclusions

We suggest that the special sensitivity of the lower anterior vaginal wall could be explained by pressure and movement of clitoris’ root during a vaginal penetration and subsequent perineal contraction. The G-spot could be explained by the richly innervated clitoris.
Malleable Implant Substitution for the Management of Penile Prosthesis Pump Erosion: A Pilot Study
Authors: Köhler Tobias S. , Modder Joshua K. , Dupree James M. , Bush Nicol C. , McVary Kevin T.
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Managing isolated scrotal pump erosion or infection in patients with inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) is a challenging problem. We describe our malleable implant substitution technique to address this problem.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe and assess the outcomes of the malleable implant substitution technique.

Methods

In this retrospective case series, six patients underwent removal of the infected and/or eroded scrotal pump, and replacement of the entire IPP with a malleable prosthesis. This procedure was only performed in men in the absence of penile pain on palpation or overwhelming sepsis. The procedure utilized components of the Mulcahy washout protocol with loose scrotal wound approximation and drains as necessary.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome is a recurrent infection rate and prosthesis functionality of the malleable implant substitution technique.

Results

All six men who underwent the procedure have done well and remain infection-free. Two men have undergone conversion from a malleable prosthesis back to IPP. Three are considering conversion to an IPP as they are satisfied with their current malleable prosthesis function. One man had a distal erosion of the malleable prosthesis that necessitated complete removal.

Conclusions

We believe the malleable implant substitution technique provides an excellent option for management of isolated scrotal pump erosion or infection and prevents the problems associated with the other common management strategies.
Do Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors Protect Against Condom-Associated Erection Loss and Condom Slippage?
Authors: Sanders Stephanie A. , Milhausen Robin R. , Crosby Richard A. , Graham Cynthia A. , Yarber William L.
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Some physicians prescribe phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) for men who experience condom-associated erection difficulties with a view to increasing condom use and reducing risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Aim

To examine whether the prevalence of erection-related condom problems differs between men using and not using PDE5i at the last condom-protected penile–vaginal (PVI) or penile–anal intercourse.

Methods

Seven hundred-five men who had used a male condom during the past 3 months for PVI were selected from a sample recruited through advertisement to an electronic mailing list for a large, internet-based, sexual-enhancement product company. An internet-based questionnaire posted in 2006 assessed condom-use errors and problems.

Main Outcome Measures

Men who did and did not use PDE5i during the last time a condom was used were compared on: (i) erection loss while applying a condom; (ii) erection loss during sex while using a condom; (iii) condom slipped off during sex; (iv) delayed condom application (penetration of the vagina or anus prior to application of the male condom); (v) early condom removal (condom taken off and intercourse continued without it); (vi) “problem with the way the condom fit”; (vii) “problem with the way the condom felt”; and (viii) condom breakage.

Results

Controlling for age, marital status (yes/no), and having children (yes/no), PDE5i users, compared with nonusers, were: (i) three times more likely to report erection loss during sex while using a condom (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.40–7.39, P = 0.006); (ii) almost five times more likely to report the condom slipped off during sex (AOR = 4.75, 95% CI = 1.68–13.44, P = 0.003); and (iii) more than twice as likely to remove condoms before sex was over (AOR = 2.46, 95% CI = 1.09–5.56, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Physicians prescribing PDE5i may want to evaluate whether men are experiencing condom-associated erection difficulties and, if they are, consider titrating dosages and/or making referrals for psychosexual therapy and/or condom skills education.
Fungal community diversity and soil health in intensive potato cropping systems of the east Po valley, northern Italy
Authors: Manici L.M. , Caputo F.
Published: April 2009

An ecological approach was used to investigate the relationship between diversity of soil fungal communities and soil‐borne pathogen inoculum in a potato growing area of northern Italy affected by yield decline. The study was performed in 14 sites with the same tillage management practices: 10 named ‘potato sites’, that for many years had been intensely cultivated with potatoes, and 4 named ‘rotation sites’, subject to a 4‐year rotation without potatoes or any recurrent crop for many years. Fungal communities were recorded using conventional (soil fungi by plate count and endophytic fungi as infection frequency on pot‐grown potato plant roots in soil samples) and molecular approaches [Basidiomycetes and Ascomycetes with specific and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis]. Diversity of fungal communities in potato sites was significantly lower than that in rotation sites. In addition, fungal communities in rotation sites showed lower Berger–Parker dominance than those in the potato sites, suggesting that rotation sites had a higher diversity as well as a better fungal community balance than potato sites. The ANalysis Of SIMilarity test of soil fungi and root endophytic fungi revealed that the two cropping systems differed significantly for species composition. Root endophytic fungal communities showed a greater ability to colonise potato roots in soil samples from potato sites than those from rotation sites. Moreover, the majority of endophytic root fungal community species in potato sites belonged to the potato root rot complex and storage disease (Colletotrichum coccodes,Fusarium solaniandFusarium oxysporum), while those in rotation sites were mainly ubiquitous or saprobic fungi. Soil rDNA analyses showed that Ascomycetes were much more frequent than Basidiomycetes in all the soils examined. DGGE analysis, with the Ascomycete‐specific primer (ITS1F/ITS4A), did not reveal distinctions between the communities found at the potato and rotation sites, although the same analysis showed differences between the communities of Basidiomycetes (specific primer ITS1F/ITS4B). These findings showed that recurrent potato cropping affected diversity and composition of soil fungal communities and induced a shift in specialisation of the endophytic fungi towards potato.
CONSTRUCTION OF A PRODUCT SPACE FROM THE ULTRA‐FLASH PROFILING METHOD: APPLICATION TO 10 RED WINES FROM THE LOIRE VALLEY
Authors: PERRIN LUCIE , PAGÈS JÉRÔME
Published: April 2009

This study proposes a methodology for the collection and the analysis of free‐text descriptions. Our hypotheses were that the high number of words usually required in textual data analysis could be compensated by (1) the expertise of the judges; and (2) by collecting free descriptions in the context of a Napping® evaluation (Ultra‐flash profiling [UFP]). This method was applied using 14 wine experts, who evaluated 10 red wines twice. The independent analysis of the words thus obtained is interpretable and rich of information. The comparison with the characterization obtained from an independent classical profiling both supports the results of the UFP and shows the specific contribution of this method. Moreover, the minimal quotation frequency from which the items were introduced in the analysis is discussed. In the present example, the robustness observed whatever the threshold selected is an argument in favor of the stability of this method.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The example studied shows that it is possible to get an interpretable product space from free‐text comments provided by a limited number of judges, when judges are experts and when descriptions are collected in the context of a Napping® evaluation. Beyond the example, this study proposes a methodology for the collection and the analysis of free‐text comments.
SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF ICE CREAM PRODUCED IN THE U.S.A. AND ITALY
Authors: THOMPSON KELLY R. , CHAMBERS DELORES H. , CHAMBERS IV EDGAR
Published: April 2009

This study was conducted to define and compare sensory characteristics of high‐quality Italian gelati to ice creams produced in the U.S.A. Trained descriptive sensory panelists evaluated gelato samples in Italy, purchased direct from local gelaterias, and ice cream samples in the U.S., purchased from grocery stores and local shops. In general, gelati obtained higher overall fruity and fruit identification scores, chocolate gelati obtained higher chocolate and cocoa notes and vanilla gelati obtained higher vanilla and lower vanillin intensities than most U.S. ice creams. Gelati were consistently associated with higher density, lower firmness and slower meltdown. When compared with U.S. ice creams, Italian gelati are characterized by specific sensory properties: “true to type” flavors – high‐intensity flavors considered to be typical to that flavor category or specific fruit and are combined with a dense, smooth texture that allows for the development of flavor, body and bloom, enhancing the perception of flavors.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The research conducted in this study may be useful for ice cream manufacturers and sensory scientists. These results are the first to define sensory characteristics of high‐quality Italian gelati and may be used to produce ice cream with increased consumer liking. The descriptive attributes developed can be used for the development of new flavors or for the improvement of ice cream products already on the market.
COMPARISON OF THE SENSORY PROPERTIES OF ULTRA‐HIGH‐TEMPERATURE (UHT) MILK FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES
Authors: OUPADISSAKOON GAEWALIN , CHAMBERS DELORES H. , CHAMBERS IV EDGAR
Published: April 2009

Shelf‐stable milk, also known as ultra‐high‐temperature (UHT) milk is the most common form of milk in many parts of the world. This study compared the differences in flavor and texture of 37 commercially available UHT and sterilized milk samples including whole, 2% reduced‐fat and low‐fat milk obtained from markets in seven countries: France (n = 2), Italy (n = 11), Japan (n = 1), Korea (n = 2), Peru (n = 3), Thailand (n = 13) and the U.S.A. (n = 5). Five highly trained panelists used flavor and texture profiling to describe the sensory properties of each milk sample. Data were analyzed by principal component analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis. Higher levels of processed, chalky, brown and cooked flavor notes generally corresponded to lower levels of fresh dairy flavor characteristics. In general, samples did not vary consistently within a country. Fat content did not correlate with dairy fat flavor or with viscosity. This research suggests that companies' manufacturing processes for UHT milk may have more impact than country or fat content in determining sensory properties of UHT milk.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sensory properties of UHT milk from different countries developed in this study could be used by the dairy industry to understand the similarities and differences of UHT milk characteristics from different regions and to modify UHT milk characteristics to meet consumers' criteria or expectation. The study suggests that manufacturers who want to improve quality of UHT milk by modify flavor and texture properties should focus on improvements to the manufacturing processes.
SENSORY EVALUATION OF CHINESE‐STYLE MARINATED CHICKEN BY CHINESE AND EUROPEAN NAÏVE ASSESSORS
Authors: YUSOP S.M. , O'SULLIVAN M.G. , KERRY J.F. , KERRY J.P.
Published: April 2009

This study was carried out in order to determine the sensory acceptability of chicken breast fillet marinated with retail and commercially available Chinese‐style marinades. Forty‐nine naïve assessors, including 25 European and 24 Chinese, were selected to assess 17 sensory attribute of 18 Chinese‐style marinades, anonymously coded according to their specific flavor group: (1) Szechuan, SZ (A–D); (2) Sweet and Sour, SS (E–J); (3) Hoisin, HO (K–P); and (4) Chinese 5 Spice, FS (Q–R). The attributes includes color (bright red, dark brown, color penetration), aroma (liking, pungency, spiciness), flavor (liking, spiciness, hotness), specific flavor ratings (Szechuan, Sweet and Sour, Hoisin, Barbeque, Chinese 5 Spice, authenticity), juiciness and overall acceptability. The instrumental color of the cooked samples and pH, moisture and fat content of the marinades were also analyzed instrumentally. Marinades were applied to the chicken fillets and dry cooked at 170C for 15 min to an internal temperature of 73C. Sensory evaluation showed that there were significant differences between both naïve assessor groups in all attributes measured, excluding bright red color, sweet and sour and flavor authenticity (P < 0.05). Samples marinated with marinades FS‐Q and SS‐G received the highest score in term of overall acceptability by the European assessors, whereas HO‐L was chosen by the Chinese assessor group. The European naïve assessors were also found to successfully differentiate the Chinese marinade products according to four specific flavors (Szechuan, Sweet and Sour, Hoisin and Chinese 5 Spice). Although the optimal characteristics of an ideal Chinese marinade were identified by the European group, the Chinese perception for Chinese‐style marinated products available in the Irish market were less acceptable and were considered non‐authentic.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The findings from this research will benefit marinade and marinated chicken product manufacturers, when developing or optimizing their ethnic products for the local and international markets. The European naïve consumers were found to successfully differentiate the Chinese marinade products according to four specific flavors. Although the optimal characteristics of an ideal Chinese marinade were identified by the European, the Chinese naïve assessor's perception for Chinese‐style marinade products available in the Irish market were less acceptable and lacking in authenticity. These results are of interest to individuals undertaking cross cultural consumer studies, even though the results presented here used naïve assessors.