bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
9-Hydroxycanthin-6-One Induces Penile Erection and Delays Ejaculation
Authors: Chiou Wen-Fei , Wu Tian-Shung
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Simaroubaceae) has the reputation as a male aphrodisiac because it is claimed to increase virility and sexual prowess. Nevertheless, whether or not E. longifolia regulates directly the muscle tone of corpus cavernosa and/or seminal vesicle (SV) remains unclear. Even until now, the compositions that could account for its aphrodisiac property are still unknown

Aim

We examined the effect of 9-hydroxycanthin-6-one (9-HC-6-one), a β-carboline alkaloid isolated from E. longifolia, on penile erection and ejaculation, and further elucidated the mechanism of action.

Main Outcome Measures

9-HC-6-one induces penile erection and delays ejaculation.

Methods

Drug’s effect was studied on rat corpus cavernosum (CC) and SV in vitro, and on the changes in intracavernosal pressure (ICP) after IC injection and intraluminal pressure (ILP) of the SV after hypogastric nerve stimulation (HNS), respectively.

Results

9-HC-6-one relaxed significantly phenylephrine (PE)-precontracted CC. Such response was not attenuated by endothelium disruption, NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, or 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one treatment, suggesting that a nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent pathway was precluded. 9-HC-6-one attenuated PE-induced contraction by blocking cell surface and internal calcium channels with a higher potency for internal calcium release. This compound also antagonized calcium-evoked contraction in Ca2+-free, high K+-depolarizing condition, suggesting that interfering with the entry of calcium through voltage-dependent channels also contributed to 9-HC-6-one-induced corporal relaxation. After IC application of 9-HC-6-one, a significant rise in ICP was observed as compared with the application of normal saline. 9-HC-6-one relaxed significantly norepinephrine (NE)- and KCl-precontracted SV, and antagonized NE-induced oscillatory contraction as potent as clomipramine. Finally, the HNS-evoked increase in ILP was dose-dependently repressed after challenge by 9-HC-6-one.

Conclusion

9-HC-6-one might be the active component that contributed to the aphrodisiac effect of E. longifolia by antagonizing the smooth muscle tone of CC as well as SV probably through interfering with Ca2+ mobilization.
The False Diagnosis of Venous Leak: Prevalence and Predictors
Authors: Teloken Patrick E. , Park Kelly , Parker Marilyn , Guhring Patricia , Narus Joseph , Mulhall John P.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

As a vascular test, dynamic infusion cavernosometry (DIC) has lost popularity, and in the urologic community, penile duplex Doppler ultrasound (DUS) has become the sole test to investigate a vascular etiology of erectile dysfunction. Vasoactive agent redosing has been shown to increase the accuracy of DUS.

Aim

To define the erectile hemodynamics in men with previously diagnosed venous leak on DUS.

Methods

Prospective data were collected on patients who (i) had been given a diagnosis of venous leak based on an outside DUS; (ii) elected to undergo a repeat DUS; and (iii) when the repeat DUS suggested venous leak, underwent DIC.

Main Outcome Measures

DUS: peak systolic velocity and end-diastolic velocity. DIC: flow to maintain.

Results

292 patients were included. Mean ± standard deviation age was 44 ± 26 years. On repeat DUS, 19% (56/292) had completely normal hemodynamics and 7% (20/292) had arterial insufficiency only without venous leak. DIC revealed normal hemodynamics in 13% (38/292), while in 58% (152/292) of patients, the venous leak diagnosis was confirmed. Overall, 47% (137/292) of patients who had been given a diagnosis of venous leak had completely normal hemodynamics, and in only 43% (126/292), the venous leak diagnosis was confirmed upon repeat vascular testing. On multivariable analysis, younger age (<45 years), failure to obtain an adequate erection during the original DUS, and having <2 vascular risk factors were predictive of a false diagnosis of venous leak.

Conclusions

Penile DUS has a propensity to inaccurately assign a diagnosis of venous leak. Great care should be taken when performing DUS especially in younger men without a significant vascular risk factor history, and the failure to obtain a good erection should make the clinician cautious in assigning a diagnosis of venous leak. Furthermore, there still exists a role for cavernosometry, which appears to have a greater accuracy at diagnosing venous leak.
Morphological and Structural changes of CaxSr1−xTiO3 Powders Obtained by the Microwave‐Assisted Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Souza Agda E. , Almeida Santos Gleyson T. , Silva Ranilson A. , Moreira Mario L. , Volanti Diogo P. , Paris Elaine C. , Teixeira Silvio R. , Longo Elson
Published: May 2011

CaxSr1−xTiO3 samples were synthesized by the microwave‐assisted hydrothermal method. The X‐ray diffraction results indicate that strontium calcium titanates powders show two crystalline structures: perovskite cubic and orthorhombic. The ultraviolet‐visible spectra show that the band gap energies decrease with the Ca addition, suggesting imperfections or defects in the forbidden band of the titanates. The photoluminescence spectra show a broad band, which is usually observed at low temperatures in perovskite‐type crystals. The nanoparticles show a nonuniform distribution with polyhedral morphology and spherical agglomerates, which change to faceted surfaces suggesting that the sample can reach other morphologies which ensure symmetry of lowest energy.
Abscisic Acid Receptors: Past, Present and FutureF
Authors: Guo Jianjun , Yang Xiaohan , Weston David J. , Chen Jin‐Gui
Published: May 2011

Jin‐Gui Chen (Corresponding author)

Abscisic acid (ABA) is the key plant stress hormone. Consistent with the earlier studies in support of the presence of both membrane‐ and cytoplasm‐localized ABA receptors, recent studies have identified multiple ABA receptors located in various subcellular locations. These include a chloroplast envelope‐localized receptor (the H subunit of Chloroplast Mg2+‐chelatase/ABA Receptor), two plasma membrane‐localized receptors (G‐protein Coupled Receptor 2 and GPCR‐type G proteins), and one cytosol/nucleus‐localized Pyrabactin Resistant (PYR)/PYR‐Like (PYL)/Regulatory Component of ABA Receptor 1 (RCAR). Although the downstream molecular events for most of the identified ABA receptors are currently unknown, one of them, PYR/PYL/RCAR was found to directly bind and regulate the activity of a long‐known central regulator of ABA signaling, the A‐group protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C). Together with the Sucrose Non‐fermentation Kinase Subfamily 2 (SnRK2s) protein kinases, a central signaling complex (ABA‐PYR‐PP2Cs‐SnRK2s) that is responsible for ABA signal perception and transduction is supported by abundant genetic, physiological, biochemical and structural evidence. The identification of multiple ABA receptors has advanced our understanding of ABA signal perception and transduction while adding an extra layer of complexity.
Palaeoenvironmental control on modern forest composition of southwestern Marajó Island, Eastern Amazonia
Authors: do Amaral Dário Dantas , Mantelli Luis Rogério , Rossetti Dilce de Fátima
Published: May 2011

This study focuses on a forested area from southwestern Marajó Island, mouth of Amazon River, aiming to analyse the relationship between plant composition and the latest Quaternary evolution of a land‐form with palaeochannel morphologies. A floristic survey aiming to characterize the inner and outer palaeochannel areas indicated similar phytossociological parameters. However, a large volume of species was exclusive to only one of these areas. Although the present‐day forest is fairly uniform, a significant variation in floristic composition was recorded according to differences in lithology, topography and hydrology. These were determined by the evolution of the physical environment associated with successive stages of abandonment of a large fluvial drainage system during the latest Pleistocene to Holocene. The results derived from this study indicate that reconstruction of a physical environment is an important parameter to be taken into account before establishing models aiming to explain the distribution of modern plant species in tropical areas.
Prefrontal cortex dysfunction and ‘Jumping to Conclusions’: Bias or deficit?
Authors: Lunt Laura , Bramham Jessica , Morris Robin G. , Bullock Peter R. , Selway Richard P. , Xenitidis Kiriakos , David Anthony S.
Published: May 2011

The ‘beads task’ is used to measure the cognitive basis of delusions, namely the ‘Jumping to Conclusions’ (JTC) reasoning bias. However, it is not clear whether the task merely taps executive dysfunction – known to be impaired in patients with schizophrenia – such as planning and resistance to impulse. To study this, 19 individuals with neurosurgical excisions to the prefrontal cortex, 21 unmedicated adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and 25 healthy controls completed two conditions of the beads task, in addition to tests of memory and executive function as well as control tests of probabilistic reasoning ability. The results indicated that the prefrontal lobe group (in particular, those with left‐sided lesions) demonstrated a JTC bias relative to the ADHD and control groups. Further exploratory analyses indicated that JTC on the beads task was associated with poorer performance in certain executive domains. The results are discussed in terms of the executive demands of the beads task and possible implications for the model of psychotic delusions based on the JTC bias.
Survival of Penicillium expansum and Patulin Production on Stored Apples after Wash Treatments
Authors: Chen L. , Ingham B. H. , Ingham S.C.
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACT: Penicillium expansum is a widespread fungus found on apples that causes fruit decay and may lead to production of a toxic secondary metabolite, patulin. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of several chemical sanitizers against P. expansum NRRL 2304 and to establish sanitizing wash treatments that would inhibit P. expansum growth and subsequent patulin production on Empire apples destined for cider. Wash treatments included 200 ppm NaOCl, 1% StorOx®, 0.5% potassium sorbate, 300 ppm SO2, and 0% to 5% acetic acid. Spores of P. expansum or inoculated apple slices were dipped in sanitizing wash solution for 5 min, and mold growth and patulin production was monitored on subsequent storage. It was found that 0.5% potassium sorbate and 300 ppm SO2 did not affect mold survival or patulin production; 1% StorOx® was effective against mold spores in solution (4 log Most Probable Number destruction of spores), but there was no significant reduction in spore count when the same solution was used to sanitize mold‐inoculated apple discs. Washing with 200 ppm NaOCl delayed growth of P. expansum on inoculated apple discs but failed to completely inhibit patulin production. Acetic acid solution (2% to 5%) was the most efficient chemical against P. expansum. A wash treatment with ≥2% acetic acid for more than 1 min is recommended to completely inhibit growth of P. expansum and subsequent patulin production on apples destined for cider.
Production of Salmon Oil from Filleting Byproducts—Effects of Storage Conditions on Lipid Oxidation and Content of ω‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Skåra T. , Sivertsvik M. , Birkeland S.
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACT: Filleting byproducts (heads, frame bones, skin, and down‐graded gutted fish) from farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) were separated into a solid/aqueous phase and a lipid phase (oil) using a scraped‐surface heat exchanger (90 °C to 95 °C) and a decanter centrifuge (93 °C). Effects of storage temperature (4 °C and 23 °C), atmosphere (air and N2), and time (0 to 180 d), as well as an additional process step—a separator introduced after the decanter centrifuge, were investigated on the quality and storage stability of the produced oil. Samples were analyzed for the quality parameters peroxide (PV), anisidine (AV), and Totox value (TxV), content of free fatty acids (FFA), content of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), especially the n‐3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and degradation of EPA and DHA related to the content of hexadecanoic acid (HDA) (ratios EPA/HDA and DHA/HDA). Storage temperature had significant effect on all the investigated quality parameters, especially on AV, PV, and TxV where a high storage temperature (23 °C) caused a 10‐fold, 2.5‐fold, and 4‐fold increase in AV, PV, and TxV, respectively. Storage atmosphere had significant effect on all the investigated parameters, except on the DHA/HDA ratio, where storage under an N2 atmosphere significantly preserved the quality of the oil compared with storage in air. Generally, no significant effect of storage time on the investigated quality parameters was observed before 120 d of storage. No effect on quality was observed when introducing an additional processing step (separator) after the decanter centrifuge. Salmon oil is a stable product, and even more so when stored at appropriate conditions (under nitrogen atmosphere at refrigerated temperatures).
A Novel Functional Soy‐based Food Fermented by Lactic Acid Bacteria: Effect of Heat Treatment
Authors: LeBlanc J.G. , Garro M.S. , de Giori G. Savoy , de Valdez G. Font
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACT: The development of a novel fermented soymilk product using selected lactic acid bacteria was performed. The immunomodulatory properties of strains able to grow in soymilk were evaluated in a murine model using inbred BALB/c mice. Lactobacillus acidophilus CRL 43 and CRL 1064 and Lactobacillus paracasei CRL 75 and CRL 208 were all able to significantly increase the phagocytic index (41 ± 4) compared with the control group (16 ± 3) when given individually. These strains were then used in the elaboration of multicultured fermented soymilks that were able to stimulate an innate immune response (peritoneal macrophage activation). However, these novel fermented products sometimes caused undesired secondary effects such as microbial translocation and animal weight loss. When the same fermented products were subjected to heat treatment, they were still able to stimulate the innate immune response without causing secondary effects. These results clearly show that it is not always necessary for lactic acid bacteria to be alive to exert a beneficial physiological effect. This study could thus be used as a model in the design and future evaluation of novel fermented vegetable products.
Sensory and Nutritional Quality of Nonfat Dry Milk in Long‐term Residential Storage
Authors: Lloyd M.A. , Zou J. , Ogden L.V. , Pike O.A.
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACT: Twenty samples of regular and instant nonfat dry milk (NFDM) stored up to 29 y in residential locations at ambient conditions in Nr 10 cans were analyzed for sensory and nutritional quality. Overall acceptability hedonic scores varied widely (2.9 to 6.2), but all samples were considered acceptable for use in an emergency situation by most panelists. A 23‐y‐old sample with low oxygen was not significantly different from fresh samples in overall acceptability hedonic scores. There was no difference in overall acceptability between regular and instant NFDM. Amounts of available lysine (1.4 to 2.6 mg/100 g), thiamin (2.7 to 4.0 μg/g), and riboflavin (12.7 to 20.2 μg/g) were not significantly correlated with sample age.
Nonvolatile Taste Compounds in Cooked Chinese Nanjing Duck Meat Following Postproduction Heat Treatment
Authors: Dai Yan , Chang Hai‐Jun , Cao Shu‐Xia , Liu Deng‐Yong , Xu Xing‐Lian , Zhou Guang‐Hong
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Taste‐active compounds, including free amino acids, succinic acid and 5′‐nucleotides, and chemical components including moisture, pH, protein, crude fat, and sodium chloride were evaluated in cooked and packaged Chinese Nanjing ducks following heat treatments including control, 99 °C for 40 min, 108 °C for 20 min, 92 °C microwave followed by water heating, 95 °C for 30 min, 121 °C for 25 min. Heat treatment decreased (P < 0.05) the content of Alamine and moisture and reduced the pH value in muscle, but increased (P < 0.05) the protein and 5′‐nucleotides content. The 99 °C group had a significantly lower crude fat content compared with other groups (P < 0.05). The succinic acid content in the control group was significantly higher than in the 121 °C group (P < 0.05). Groups treated at higher temperatures (108 °C, 121 °C, and microwave) had similar equivalent umami concentrations and 5′‐nucleotides, free amino acids content, as well as the derived bitter and sweet taste components compared with the groups treated at lower temperatures. It can be speculated that these differences account for the enhanced flavor of the meat in the 99 °C, 108 °C, 121 °C, and microwave groups compared with the untreated control. Therefore, heat treatment at lower temperature after packaging may prolong product shelf life without any detrimental effects on taste. The results of this study indicate that it is important to use lower temperatures in this type of food processing. However, it may be possible to modify the primary processing steps to improve the content of umami‐like taste compounds such as 5′‐nucleotides.

Practical Application:  Heat treatment of packaged products is an effective method for eradication of microbes, therefore increasing the shelf‐life. However, such treatment can result in major changes in the sensory perception of meat products, particularly the formation of off‐flavors. This study investigated changes in taste‐active compounds in duck meat following a number of types of heat treatment.
Improving Chocolate Flavor in Poor‐Quality Cocoa Almonds by Enzymatic Treatment
Authors: Oliveira Hilana Salete Silva , Mamede Maria Eugênia Oliveira , Góes‐Neto Aristóteles , Koblitz Maria Gabriela Bello
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  This paper proposes a method to enzymatically treat poor‐quality cocoa almonds (known as “slate”) to ensure the formation of chocolate flavor precursors. The production of flavor precursors improves the quality of these almonds, which are usually responsible for the low quality of the liquor produced. Proteases and carboxypeptidases from different sources were tested under various conditions. The different treatments were evaluated by chemical analysis (hydrolysis efficiency) and sensory analysis of the treated material compared to good‐quality cocoa almonds. The results show that it is possible, through the use of microbial enzymes, to generate the mixture of compounds that will release, after roasting, the characteristic chocolate flavor in poor‐quality almonds. However, it is necessary to optimize the conditions of enzymatic treatment to obtain better results and thus establish a process that can be used for industrial purposes for manufacturing cocoa and chocolate.

Practical Application:  The basidiomycete Moniliophtora perniciosa is the causative agent of witches’ broom disease (WBD) of the cocoa tree, whose seeds are the source of chocolate. It is the most important phytopathological problem of cocoa‐producing areas of the American continent, and has decimated the Brazilian cocoa industry. In Bahia (Brazil), M. perniciosa was identified in 1989 and, as a consequence of its spreading, the annual production of cocoa almonds dropped from 450000 to 90000 tons within 12 y, reducing export values from an all‐time high of about US$ 1 billion to 110 million. The high incidence of WBD incapacitates Brazil to produce enough cocoa almonds even for the internal market, leading the country to import low‐quality cocoa almonds mainly from African countries. Our work proposes an enzymatic treatment to increase the quality of that cocoa almonds and, consequently, to improve the quality of the chocolate produced and consumed in the country.
Implantation Ability of the Potential Probiotic Strain, Lactobacillus reuteri PL519, in “Salchichón,” a Traditional Iberian Dry Fermented Sausage
Authors: Ruiz‐Moyano Santiago , Martín Alberto , Benito María José , Aranda Emilio , Casquete Rocío , de Guia Córdoba María
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of incorporating the probiotic L. reuteri PL519 into the manufacturing of Iberian dry fermented sausages, and to observe its effect on the sensory properties of these meat products. Specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was carried out to detect the presence of probiotic strain at high counts in the inoculated sausages. Changes due to probiotic inoculation on physicochemical parameters were determined and the impact on sensory quality evaluated. Dry fermented sausages inoculated with L. reuteri PL519 may be considered as functional products according to the counts of this strain found at the end of processing. Inoculation with L. reuteri PL519 increased the amount of acetic acid, protein, and lipid degradation products in dry fermented sausages. The differences observed in the descriptive sensorial analysis corresponded, however, to a little impact on overall acceptability since no significant changes were found between the control and L. reuteri PL519 batch in the hedonic test.

Practical Application:  Processing and marketing of Iberian dry fermented sausages with functional characteristics.
Effect of Ultraviolet and Far Infrared Radiation on Microbial Decontamination and Quality of Cumin Seeds
Authors: Erdoğdu S. Belgin , Ekiz H. İbrahim
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Cumin seeds might be exposed to a high level of natural bacterial contamination, and this could potentially create a public health risk besides leading to problems in exportation. Ultraviolet (UVC) and far infrared (FIR) radiation has low penetration power, and due to that, there might be no detrimental defects to the products during a possible decontamination process. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of UVC and FIR treatment on microbial decontamination and quality of cumin seeds. For this purpose, FIR treatment at different exposure times and temperatures were applied followed by constant UVC treatment with an intensity of 10.5 mW/cm2 for 2 h. Total mesophilic aerobic bacteria of the cumin seeds were decreased to the target level of 104 CFU/g after 1.57, 2.8, and 4.8 min FIR treatment at 300, 250, and 200 °C, respectively, following a 2 h UVC treatment. Under the given conditions, a complete elimination for total yeast and molds were obtained while there were no significant changes in volatile oil content and color of the cumin seeds. Consequently, combined UVC and FIR treatment was determined to be a promising method for decontamination of the cumin seeds.

Practical Application:  This research attempts to apply UVC and far infrared (FIR) radiation for pasteurization of cumin seeds. The data suggested that combined UVC and FIR radiation treatments can become a promising new method for pasteurization of cumin seeds without causing any detrimental defect to the quality parameters. The results of this industry partnered (Kadioglu Baharat, Mersin, Turkey—http://www.kadioglubaharat.com) study were already applied in industrial scale production lines.
Polymeric Proanthocyanidins in Skins and Seeds of 37 Vitis vinifera L. Cultivars: A Methodological Comparative Study
Authors: Travaglia Fabiano , Bordiga Matteo , Locatelli Monica , Coïsson Jean Daniel , Arlorio Marco
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  The polymeric proanthocyanidins (PAs) composition of skins and seeds from different Vitis vinifera L. cv. was evaluated, sampling 37 cultivar, preserved in the grapevine collection of Grinzane Cavour (Piedmont, Italy). PAs were quantified using both spectrophotometric (n‐butanol and vanillin assay) and chromatographic (high‐performance liquid chromatography [HPLC]) methods, and the evaluation of their antioxidant activity was performed using the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay. Results of PAs quantification with the different methods were significantly correlated. A strong correlation pointed out between anthocyans and PAs content (particularly regarding HPLC method; r = 0.9359, P = 0), and the antioxidant activity was not dependent on the polymeric PAs content, but negatively correlated with the degree of polymerization (r =–0.6102, P = 1 × 10−4). The hierarchical clustering on principal components analysis allowed grouping the samples in 3 different clusters, observing a direct association between the cluster classification and the anthocyans/PAs content.
Rapid Detection of Ricin in Milk Using Immunomagnetic Separation Combined with Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: He Lili , Deen Bronwyn , Rodda Tom , Ronningen Ian , Blasius Tim , Haynes Christy , Diez‐Gonzalez Francisco , Labuza Theodore P.
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Ricin is a potential bioterrisiom agent. There is a critical need for a method that can rapidly and simply detect ricin and other bioterrisiom agents in complex food matrices such as milk. In this study, we demonstrated a rapid method that combined immunomagnetic separation (IMS) and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to detect ricin in whole milk. IMS was used to specifically capture the ricin out of the milk. Then, SERS was applied to analyze the IMS eluate mixed with silver dendrite nanosubstrates. This approach facilitated detection and quantification down to 4 μg/mL ricin in milk within 20 min, based on the results of principal component analysis and partial least squares analysis. The feasibility of using a portable Raman instrument shows great promise for on‐site detection in a processing facility.

Practical Application:  The method described in this manuscript that combined IMS and SERS could be used for rapid detection of ricin and other protein toxins in complex food matrices such as milk within 20 min. The use of a portable Raman could facilitate the on‐site detection in a processing facility.
Transfusion‐related acute lung injury investigation insights
Authors: Fung Y. L.
Published: May 2011

Background  From 2005 to 2009 transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) has maintained its ranking as the number one cause of transfusion‐related fatalities reported to the FDA. This confirms that TRALI remains a serious and potentially fatal transfusion complication. As over 80% of TRALI events have been attributed to donor derived leucocyte antibodies the detection and management of donors with these antibodies is crucial to reducing the TRALI risk.

Objective  Because blood is a precious medical commodity in limited supply, it would be more effective to exclude only those donors with a risk of triggering TRALI substantiated by objective laboratory evidence (i.e. implicated). This would allow implicated donors to be confidently excluded and would allow other donors only clinically associated with TRALI to be reassessed for continuing to donate. Therefore, the design of an effective and objective TRALI laboratory investigation strategy has to be based on current knowledge of the mechanism of antibody mediated TRALI.

Discussion  Leucocyte antibodies in the transfused blood product are thought to activate neutrophils in the pulmonary microvasculature. The by‐products of neutrophil activation (e.g. reactive oxygen species and enzymes) consequently cause injury to the pulmonary microvasculature resulting in respiratory distress. There is strong evidence for the role of neutrophil reactive antibodies to human neutrophil antigen (HNA)‐3a and human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐A2 in serious TRALI events. HLA Class II antibodies have also been implicated and they are thought to activate monocytes, which subsequently activate neutrophils. Neutrophils, which express human neutrophil antigens (HNA) and HLA Class I, are thus key effector cells in TRALI injury. Because of the pivotal role of neutrophils, effective TRALI investigations must include well validated neutrophil assays such as the granulocyte immunofluorescence test (GIFT) and granulocyte agglutination test (GAT).

This article will discuss:

– TRALI investigation strategy,

– assays for detection of antibodies to HNA and HLA,

– how to differentiate associated from implicated donors,

– and provide thoughts on the remaining 20% of TRALI events (i.e. non‐immune mediated).
Expression of CD4+ forkhead box P3 (FOXP3)+ regulatory T cells in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: WANG Yi , LIU Xue Ping , ZHAO Zhi Bin , CHEN Jun Hao , YU Cheng Gong
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:  Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) plays an important role in the development and function of CD4+ regulatory T (Treg) cells. In this study the percentage of CD4+ FOXP3+ Treg cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and the frequency of Treg cells in the colonic mucosa of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were investigated.

METHODS:  The percentage of CD4+FOXP3+ Treg cells in PBMC was analyzed by flow cytometry. Immunohistochemistry was used to examine the FOXP3+ cells in the inflamed mucosa. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were used to detect the expressions of FOXP3 mRNA and protein in PBMC and mucosal biopsy specimens of IBD patients, respectively.

RESULTS:  Together with the decrease of percentage of Treg cells in PBMC, we found that the frequency of Treg cells increased significantly in inflamed mucosa of active or inactive Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The expressions of FOXP3 mRNA and protein increased in inflamed mucosa when compared with those in healthy controls, especially the FOXP3 mRNA in patients with active CD or UC. Interestingly, the expression of FOXP3 protein in active UC was higher than that in active CD.

CONCLUSIONS:  There was a decrease of CD4+FOXP3+ Treg cells in peripheral blood and an accumulation of Treg cells in inflamed mucosa. These data suggested that the suppressive function of Treg cells may be partially inhibited and this could be an important factor in the recurrence of disease, especially in UC.
Bio‐palladium: from metal recovery to catalytic applications
Authors: De Corte Simon , Hennebel Tom , De Gusseme Bart , Verstraete Willy , Boon Nico
Published: May 2011

While precious metals are available to a very limited extent, there is an increasing demand to use them as catalyst. This is also true for palladium (Pd) catalysts and their sustainable recycling and production are required. Since Pd catalysts exist nowadays mostly under the form of nanoparticles, these particles need to be produced in an environment‐friendly way. Biological synthesis of Pd nanoparticles (‘bio‐Pd’) is an innovative method for both metal recovery and nanocatalyst synthesis. This review will discuss the different bio‐Pd precipitating microorganisms, the applications of the catalyst (both for environmental purposes and in organic chemistry) and the state of the art of the reactors based on the bio‐Pd concept. In addition, some main challenges are discussed, which need to be overcome in order to create a sustainable nanocatalyst. Finally, some outlooks for bio‐Pd in environmental technology are presented.
Visualization studies on evidence‐based medicine domain knowledge (Series 1): Mapping of evidence‐based medicine research subjects
Authors: Shen Jiantong , Yao Leye , Li Youping , Clarke Mike , Gan Qi , Fan Yi , Zhong Dake , Li Yifei , Gou Yongchao , Wang Li
Published: May 2011

Objective To use visualization methods to illustrate and compare major subjects, domains, and developments in evidence‐based medicine (EBM) in recent years.

Method We analyzed MeSH terms and keywords in EBM articles in the MEDLINE and CNKI databases, and developed subject charts, research field relationship charts, and strategy coordination charts using word co‐occurrence, PFNET algorithms, and visualization methods.

Result Rapid developments and growth are taking place in EBM in China and around the world. Studies on humans comprised 94.4% of the EBM studies that we identified, while animal studies accounted for 2.6% (three quarters of these animal studies were on primates). The six countries with the largest number of EBM articles and the eight host nations for the 108 journals with the most EBM publications were from high‐income countries. In China, 31 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions have published EBM articles, although most of these publications come from the more highly‐developed areas of the country. The investigation of word co‐occurrence showed that EBM articles outside of China involve seven main fields: “Therapy”, “Methods”, “Standards”, “Research”, “Education”, ”Nursing” and “Organization and Administration”. Five of these fields (“Therapy”, “Nursing”, “Research”, “Education” and “Management”) were common to China but the top seven fields for this country included “Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)” and “Information resources”; and did not include “Methods” and “Standards”. Furthermore, studies on “Nursing” and “Research” were not as advanced in China as in other countries.

Conclusion There are similarities between China and the rest of the world in several areas in the EBM literature but also some important differences. Throughout the world, the most resource‐rich regions o organizations tend to have the most well‐developed EBM. These regions and organizations are pdocuing more evidence and conducting more methodology research than the less resourced regions and organizations. There is an urgent need for these regions and organizations to strengthen their use of evidence, to learn more about the philosophy that underpins EBM, and to improve accessibility to, and use of, evidence in choices about health care.
Visualization studies on evidence‐based medicine domain knowledge (series 3): visualization for dissemination of evidence based medicine information
Authors: Shen Jiantong , Yao Leye , Li Youping , Clarke Mike , Gan Qi , Li Yifei , Fan Yi , Gou Yongchao , Wang Li
Published: May 2011

Purpose To identify patterns in information sharing between a series of Chinese evidence based medicine (EBM) journals and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, to determine key evidence dissemination areas for EBM and to provide a scientific basis for improving the dissemination of EBM research.

Method Data were collected on citing and cited from the Chinese Journal of Evidence‐Based Medicine (CJEBM), Journal of Evidence‐Based Medicine (JEBMc), Chinese Journal of Evidence Based Pediatrics (CJEBP), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR). Relationships between citations were visualized. High‐frequency key words from these sources were identified, to build a word co‐occurrence matrix and to map research subjects.

Result CDSR contains a large collection of information of relevance to EBM and its contents are widely cited across many journals, suggesting a well‐developed citation environment. The content and citation of the Chinese journals have been increasing in recent years. However, their citation environments are much less developed, and there is a wide variation in the breadth and strength of their knowledge communication, with the ranking from highest to lowest being CJEBM, JEBMc and CJEBP. The content of CDSR is almost exclusively Cochrane intervention reviews examining the effects of healthcare interventions, so it's contribution to EBM is mostly in disease control and treatment. On the other hand, the Chinese journals on evidence‐based medicine and practice focused more on areas such as education and research, design and quality of clinical trials, evidence based policymaking, evidence based clinical practice, tumor treatment, and pediatrics.

Conclusion Knowledge and findings of EBM are widely communicated and disseminated. However, citation environments and range of knowledge communication differ greatly between the journals examined in this study. This finds that Chinese EBM has focused mainly on clinical medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, pediatrics, tumor treatment, nursing, health economic and management, and medical education. Internationally, EBM research topics have begun to shift, from drug treatment to surgery or other non‐pharmacological treatments; from therapy to diagnosis, rehabilitation, and prevention; from evidence based clinical practice to evidence based management and policymaking. The philosophy and method of EBM, evidence production and translation are also shifting from well resourced settings to low‐ and middle‐income countries, especially those in which English is not a major language.
A polyketide interferes with cellular differentiation in the symbiotic cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme
Authors: Liaimer Anton , Jenke‐Kodama Holger , Ishida Keishi , Hinrichs Katrin , Stangeland Janne , Hertweck Christian , Dittmann Elke
Published: May 2011

Nostoc punctiforme is a filamentous cyanobacterium capable of forming symbiotic associations with a wide range of plants. The strain exhibits extensive phenotypic characteristics and can differentiate three mutually exclusive cell types: nitrogen‐fixing heterocysts, motile hormogonia and spore‐like akinetes. Here, we provide evidence for a crucial role of an extracellular metabolite in balancing cellular differentiation. Insertional mutagenesis of a gene of the polyketide synthase gene cluster pks2 led to the accumulation of short filaments carrying mostly terminal heterocysts under diazotrophic conditions. The mutant has a strong tendency to form biofilms on solid surfaces as well as in liquid culture. The pks2‐ strain keeps forming hormogonia over the entire growth curve and shows an early onset of akinete formation. We could isolate two fractions of the wild‐type supernatant that could restore the capability to form long filaments with intercalary heterocysts. Growth of the mutant cells in the neighbourhood of wild‐type cells on plates led to a reciprocal influence and a partial reconstruction of wild‐type and mutant phenotype respectively. We postulate that extracellular metabolites of Nostoc punctiforme act as life cycle governing factors (LCGFs) and that the ratio between distinct factors may guide the differentiation into different life stages.
Chitin stimulates production of the antibiotic andrimid in a Vibrio coralliilyticus strain
Authors: Wietz Matthias , Månsson Maria , Gram Lone
Published: May 2011

Vibrio coralliilyticus is a putative coral pathogen in tropical oceans, but also possesses antagonistic traits. We previously reported antibacterial activity in Vibrio coralliilyticus strain S2052 based upon the antibiotic andrimid. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether V. coralliilyticus S2052 produces the antibiotic under conditions mimicking natural habitats of vibrios. S2052 synthesized andrimid with both chitin and macroalgal extracts as sole nutrient source. With chitin, the biosynthesis of metabolites other than andrimid was largely abolished, and the yield of the antibiotic per cell was twofold higher. In cultures with Artemia as live chitin model system, S2052 reached up to 108 cells ml−1, produced andrimid and showed attachment to the exoskeleton and chitinous exuviae. The metabolic focus on andrimid production with chitin indicates that the antibiotic could serve an ecophysiological function. S2052 was compared with two related V. coralliilyticus strains (LMG20984T and LMG10953). Despite overall similar secondary metabolomes, LMG20984T and LMG10953 did not produce andrimid, and their optimum biosynthetic temperature was 30 as compared with 25°C for S2052. In addition, S2052 appeared less pathogenic towards Artemia than reported for the type strain. Different physiologies of S2052 and closely related strains indicated that V. coralliilyticus subspecies may be adapted to different niches.
Contemporary fluid intake and dental caries in Australian children
Authors: Lee JG , Brearley Messer LJ
Published: May 2011

In Australia, caries experience of 6‐year‐old and 12‐year‐old children has increased since the mid to late 1990s. Previously, caries rates had declined, attributable to community water fluoridation. The recent caries increase has been attributed speculatively to changes in fluid intake, including increased consumption of sweet drinks and bottled waters. Increasing urbanization and globalization have altered children’s diets worldwide, promoting availability and access to processed foods and sweet drinks. Studies in Australia and internationally have demonstrated significant associations between sweet drink intake and caries experience. Despite widespread fluoride availability in contemporary Australian society, the relationship between sugar consumption and caries development continues and restricting sugar intake remains key to caries prevention. Caries risk assessment should be included in treatment planning for all children; parents should be advised of their child’s risk level and given information on oral health promotion. Readily‐implemented caries risk assessment tools applicable to parents and clinicians are now available. Public health information should increase awareness that consuming sweet drinks can have deleterious effects on the dentition as well as the potential for promoting systemic disease. Restricting sales of sweet drinks and sweet foods and providing healthy food and drinks for purchase in schools is paramount.
Prior probability (the pretest best guess) affects predictive values of diagnostic tests
Authors: Erb Hollis N.
Published: May 2011

Abstract: Authors who publish evaluations of dichotomous (yes/no) diagnostic tests often include the predictive values of their test at a single prior probability (eg, the prevalence of the target disease within the evaluation data set). The objectives of this technical note are to demonstrate why single‐probability predictive values are misleading and to show a better way to display positive predictive values (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) for a newly evaluated test. Secondly, this technical note will show readers how to calculate predictive values from only sensitivity and specificity for any desired prior probability. As prior probability increases from 0% to 100%, PPV increases from 0% to 100%, but NPV goes in the opposite direction (drops from 100% to 0%). Because prior probabilities vary so greatly across situations, predictive values should be provided in publications for the full range of potential prior probabilities (if provided at all). This is easily done with a 2‐curve graph displaying the predictive values (y‐axis) against the prior probability (x‐axis).
Anaplasmosis in two dogs in France and molecular and phylogenetic characterization of Anaplasma phagocytophilum
Authors: Canelas Domingos Margarida , Trotta Michele , Briend‐Marchal Alexandra , Medaille Christine
Published: May 2011

Abstract: Two dogs in France were diagnosed with Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection by real‐time PCR. The most remarkable hematologic and biochemical findings were severe thrombocytopenia, mild neutrophilia, morulae in neutrophils, and increased serum concentration of the α2‐globulin fraction detected by agarose gel electrophoresis of serum proteins. Using sequencing of the partial 16S rRNA and ankA genes, molecular characterization of the A. phagocytophilum strains showed that the organisms from both dogs were identical to the European strains isolated from horses and people. Based on phylogenetic analysis, the ankA gene was more discriminating than the 16S rRNA gene in distinguishing the majority of European and American strains of A. phagocytophilum infecting people and animals. Three isolates of A. phagocytophilum, 1 from Spain (cow) and 2 from Norway (sheep and deer), were external to the European and American clades.
The African Standby Force: External Support to an ‘African Solution to African Problems’?
Authors: Bachmann Olaf
Published: May 2011

External support is essential to the development of the African Standby Force (ASF), an African‐led mechanism for crisis management and peace consolidation in Africa. This research paper examines external support to the ASF by several bilateral and multinational contributors, assessing its strengths and limits, and attempts to measure the significance of the support to the aspired outcome.

The starting point of the study is an analysis of the fast‐evolving ASF project, which has gone through many phases of definition and redefinition since it was conceived in the late 1990s. The ASF, it is argued, is a ‘moving target’, due to the inability of African stakeholders to settle on a clear concept, setting themselves ever more ambitious goals at every stage. Partners simultaneously suffer from, and contribute to this state of affairs. Whilst coordination efforts are undertaken, partners' support too often still responds to national (for bilateral donors) or institutional interests (for multilateral ones), each partner using the leeway created by the conceptual ambiguities of the ASF to press its own priorities. Given the overwhelming role of partners in the conceptual maturation of the ASF, and the impact of their funding decisions, this is turn exacerbates the confusion about the true direction of its development. Said differently, the ASF is burdened by the lack of political, conceptual, and financial ownership on the side of the recipients, who are also its main stakeholders. The result is at best an ambiguous partnership, and at worst a waste of human resources, financial means and political capital.

Attempting to differentiate between degrees of ‘ownership’, the study concludes that it is only if AU member states make a conscious effort to increase their political, conceptual and especially, financial, stake in the ASF that they will credibly demonstrate that it is not an entirely foreign‐mastered project, but a real ‘African solution to African problems’.
The effect of temperature and of cetrimide on the rate of loss of refractility of spores of Bacillus megaterium
Authors: RIGBY G J , HAMBLETON ROGER
Published: May 2011

The rate of germination of spores of Bacillus megaterium at 30° is not significantly different from the rate at 37° but the onset of germination is delayed; outgrowth is normal. At 45° germination of some spores occurs but the rate is much slower than at 37°, and there is no lag; emergence occurs from only a proportion of the germinated spores and after 3 or 4 vegetative cells have been produced, replication ceases. A single regression equation can represent the germination rate of the spores at 37° in the presence of from 0.0005 to 0.02% w/v of cetrimide and in its absence. In 0.0005% w/v of cetrimide, germ cells emerge from some of the germinated spores but many of them become swollen and disintegrate. Concentrations of 0.00125% w/v or more progressively inhibit swelling and completely inhibit emergence.
Adenyl cyclase activity of rabbit aorta
Authors: SCHONHOFER PETER S , SKIDMORE IAN F , FORN JAVIER , FLEISCH JEROME H
Published: May 2011

Adenyl cyclase activity in homogenates of thoracic and abdominal aorta from young and old rabbits was neither stimulated nor inhibited by isoprenaline, noradrenaline, 5-hydroxytryptamine, or histamine but was markedly increased by sodium fluoride. Sodium fluoride-stimulated adenyl cyclase activity was significantly higher in the abdominal than in the thoracic aorta. Neither the basal nor sodium fluoride-stimulated adenyl cyclase activity of thoracic aorta changed with increasing age of the aorta. On the other hand, the abdominal aorta showed an increase in sodium fluoride-stimulated activity but no change in basal activity with increasing age. After the ATP pool of intact thoracic aorta was prelabelled with [14C]-adenine, isoprenaline did not enhance the formation of labelled cyclic AMP in intact aortic strips. Based on these data no correlation could be made between adenyl cyclase activity and the β-receptor activity of this tissue.
The binding of indomethacin, salicylate and phenobarbitone to human whole blood in vitro
Authors: MCARTHUR J N , DAWKINS P D , SMITH M J H
Published: May 2011

The binding of indomethacin, salicylate and phenobarbitone to human whole blood, plasma and red cells has been determined by equilibrium dialysis. The red cells bound appreciable proportions of salicylate and phenobarbitone but not indomethacin. It is concluded that prediction of the extent of the drug binding to the circulating blood should be made from the results obtained with whole blood, red cells and plasma.