bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melatonin production in an aerobic photosynthetic bacterium: An evolutionarily early association with darkness
Authors: Tilden Andrea R. , Becker Monika A. , Amma Lori L. , Arciniega Jacqueline , McGaw Anna K.
Published: February 2007

Tilden AR, Becker MA, Amma LL, Arciniega J, McGaw AK. Melatonin production in an aerobic photosynthetic bacterium: An evolutionarily early association with darkness. J. Pineal Res. 1997; 22:102–106. © Munksgaard, Copenhagen

Melatonin was measured in a species of aerobic photosynthetic bacteria, Erythrobacter longus, grown in either constant light or constant dark. A radioimmunoassay was used to quantify melatonin levels and thin‐layer chromatography to confirm the identity of melatonin immunoactivity. Melatonin levels were significantly higher (nearly 2.3‐fold) in the dark‐grown than in the light‐grown samples. Also, the homogenates of the dark‐grown bacteria retained melatonin‐producing enzymatic activity, whereas the light‐grown homogenates did not; melatonin levels extracted from the dark‐grown homogenates increased with increasing extraction time, reaching as high as 29.2 ng‐mg‐1 protein at 120 min. Removal of membrane fragments from homogenates did not influence melatonin levels in light‐grown homogenate, but this procedure increased melatonin levels in dark‐grown homogenate, indicating that at least some of the enzymes in the pathway of melatonin production are not membrane‐bound. This study is the second to demonstrate the presence of melatonin at the prokaryotic level, supporting the evidence that melatonin appeared very early in evolution. Its function in prokaryotes has not been determined, but may relate to its antioxidative actions.
The validity of melatonin as an oncostatic agent
Authors: Panzer Annîe , Viljoen Margaretha
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: The validity of melatonin as a prominent, naturally occurring oncostatic agent is examined in terms of its putative oncostatic mechanism of action, the correlation between melatonin levels and neoplastic activity, and the outcome of therapeutically administered melatonin in clinical trials. Melatonin's mechanism of action is summarized in a brief analysis of its actions at the cellular level, its antioxidative functions, and its indirect immunostimulatory effects. The difficulties of interpreting melatonin levels as a diagnostic or prognostic aid in cancer is illustrated by referral to breast cancer, the most frequently studied neoplasm in trials regarding melatonin. Trials in which melatonin was used therapeutically are reviewed, i.e., early studies using melatonin alone, trials of melatonin in combination with interleukin‐2, and controlled studies comparing routine therapy to therapy in combination with melatonin. A table compiling the studies in which melatonin was used in the treatment of cancer in humans is presented according to the type of neoplasm. Melatonin's suitability in combination chemotherapy, where it augments the anticancer effect of other chemotherapeutic drugs while decreasing some of the toxic side effects, is described. Based on the evidence derived from melatonin's antiproliferative, antioxidative, and immunostimulatory mechanisms of action, from its abnormal levels in cancer patients and from clinical trials in which melatonin was administered, it is concluded that melatonin could indeed be considered a physiological anticancer substance. Further well‐controlled trials should, however, be performed in order to find the link between its observed effects and the underlying mechanisms of action and to define its significance as a therapeutic oncostatic agent.
Melatonin suppresses vasospastic effect of hydrogen peroxide in human umbilical artery: Relation to calcium influx
Authors: Okatani Yuji , Watanabe Kazushi , Hayashi Kazutoshi , Wakatsuki Akihiko , Sagara Yusuke
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: We evaluated the hydroxyl radical scavenging effect of melatonin on the vasospastic action induced by hydrogen peroxide in human umbilical artery. Helical sections were made of umbilical arteries obtained from healthy pregnant women who were delivered between 37 and 39 weeks of gestation. Changes in maximal potassium chloride (KC1, 10−2 M)‐induced tension were measured in umbilical artery segments with intact endothelium. Segments were treated with H2O2 (10−9 M to 10−7 M) only, or were pretreated with an H2O2 scavenger (catalase, 2,000 IU), a hydroxyl radical scavenger (mannitol, 10−2 M), or melatonin (10−8 M to 10−6 M). The effect of H2O2 on the response of the segments of umbilical artery to external calcium was determined. Changes in KCl‐induced contraction were also determined in segments pretreated with an inhibition of intracellular calcium release (ryanodine, 10−4 M) prior to exposure to H2O2. Pretreating the segments of umbilical arteries with H2O2 (10−8 M, 10−7 M) significantly potentiated the maximal contraction induced by KC1 (P < 0.0001, P < 0.03, respectively). Pretreatment with either catalase or mannitol significantly reduced the vasospastic effect of H2O2 (10−8 M) (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, respectively). Melatonin also significantly reduced the vasospastic effect of H2O2 (10−8 M), in a concentration‐dependent manner (P<0.0001). H2O2 (10−8 M) significantly increased the contractile response to external calcium. Melatonin pretreatment significantly suppressed the contractile response to external calcium. Treatment with ryanodine prior to exposure to H2O2 did not affect KCl‐induced contraction. Results suggest that H2O2 potentiates the KCl‐induced maximal contraction of the human umbilical artery, perhaps by increasing calcium influx via activation of the voltage‐dependent calcium channel. Melatonin significantly suppresses the vasospastic effect of H2O2, probably due to its scavenging of the hydroxyl radical.
Melatonin protects against gastric ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: De La Lastra Catalina Alarcón , Cabeza Juan , Motilva Virginia , Martin Maria J.
Published: February 2007

De La Lastra CA, Cabeza J, Motilva V, Martin MJ. Melatonin protects against gastric ischemia‐reperfusion injury in rats. J. Pineal Res. 1997; 23:47–52. © Munksgaard, Copenhagen

Lipid peroxidation and active oxygen metabolites have been suggested to play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute gastric mucosal injury induced by ischemia‐reperfusion. The aim of this study was to examine the in vivo protective effects of melatonin on ischemia‐reperfusion induced gastric damage in rats. The peroxidation of lipids and changes in the activities of related enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase and myeloperoxidase, as a marker of neutrophil infiltration, were also studied. Our results show that gastric injury was significantly increased after 30 min ischemia induced by clamping the celiac artery and 60 min reperfusion. Intraperitoneal administration of melatonin prevented postishemic mucosal injury. The mean ulcer indices of rats treated with 5, 10, and 20 mg kg ‐1 were significantly lower (P<0.01, P<0.001) than that of control rats. These protective effects were likely in part related to a reduction of neutrophil infiltration (myeloperoxidase values). Lipid peroxidation in the stomach was increased by ischemia‐reperfusion injury and this increase was inhibited by the administration of melatonin. In addition, treatment with melatonin limited the decreased glutathione peroxidase activity. The results suggest that melatonin confers a marked protection against ischemia‐reperfusion gastric injury which could be due to melatonin's free radical scavenging activity and its ability to reduce neutrophil‐induced toxicity.
Nocturnal urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen‐immunopositive tumor cells show strong positive correlations in patients with gastrointestinal and lung cancer
Authors: Bartsch Christian , Kvetnoy Igor , Kvetnaia Tatiana , Bartsch Hella , Molotkov Andrew , Franz Heiko , Raikhlin Nathan , Mecke Dieter
Published: February 2007

Bartsch C, Kvetnoy I, Kvetnaia T, Bartsch H, Molotkov A, Franz H, Raikhlin N, Mecke D. Nocturnal urinary 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen‐immunopositive tumor cells show strong positive correlations in patients with gastrointestinal and lung cancer. J. Pineal Res. 1997; 23:90–96. © Munksgaard, Copenhagen

The hormone melatonin plays a key role in coordinating neuroendocrine signals involved in the control of biological rhythms and also appears to be involved in the regulation of cellular proliferation. In this study on patients with gastrointestinal and lung cancer the nocturnal urinary excretion of 6‐sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) reflecting pineal melatonin production as well as immunohistochemically detectable proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and melatonin were measured in corresponding tumor specimens (6 colorectal, 8 stomach, and 12 lung cancers). Strong positive correlations were detected between aMT6s and PCNA for the different types of tumors analysed (1 ≥ Rs ≥ 0.736, P < 0.01–0.0001). These findings provide support to the concept of an involvement of the pineal gland in malignancy and suggest that aMT6s‐measurements may be considered as a non‐invasive tool to estimate tumor cell proliferation. Negative correlations found between urinary aMT6s and melatonin in tumor cells (‐0.735 ≥ Rs ≥ ‐0.928, P < 0.01–0.0025) could be interpreted as an effort of the pineal gland to secrete melatonin to compensate for the decrease in the number of melatonin‐immunopositive cells within tumor tissue where it may possess important regulatory functions.
The interaction of melatonin and its precursors with aluminium, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, and zinc: An adsorptive voltammetric study
Authors: Limson Janice , Nyokong Tebello , Daya Santy
Published: February 2007

Limson J, Nyokong T, Day a S. The interaction of melatonin and its precursors with aluminium, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, and zinc: An adsorptive voltammetric study. J. Pineal Res. 1998; 24:15–21. © Munksgaard, Copenhagen

Melatonin, a pineal secretory product, and its precursors, tryptophan and serotonin, were examined for their metal binding affinities for both essential and toxic metals: aluminium, cadmium, copper, iron, lead, and zinc. An electrochemical technique, adsorptive stripping voltammetry, showed the varying abilities of melatonin and its precursors to bind the metals in situ. The results show that the following metal complexes were formed: aluminium with melatonin, tryptophan, and serotonin; cadmium with melatonin and tryptophan; copper with melatonin and serotonin; iron(III) with melatonin and serotonin; lead with melatonin, tryptophan, and serotonin; and zinc with melatonin and tryptophan. Iron(II) showed the formation of an in situ complex with tryptophan only. These studies suggest a further role for melatonin in the reduction of free radical generation and metal detoxification, and they may explain the accumulation of aluminium in Alzheimer's disease.
Melatonin regulates the respiratory burst of human neutrophils and their depolarization
Authors: Pieri Carlo , Recchioni Rina , Moroni Fausto , Marcheselli Fiorella , Marra Maurizio , Marinoni Silvia , Di Primio Roberto
Published: February 2007

Pieri C, Recchioni R, Moroni F, Marcheselli F, Marra M, Marinoni Silvia, Di Primio R. Melatonin regulates the respiratory burst of human neutrophils and their depolarization. J. Pineal Res. 1998; 24:43–49. © Munksgaard, Copenhagen

The effect of different doses of melatonin on the respiratory burst as well as on the membrane potential changes of human neutrophils stimulated with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) was investigated. The intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in stimulated neutrophils was quantified in individual cells by flow cytometry, measuring the oxidation of nonfluorescent dihydrorhodamine 123 to the green fluorescent rhodamine 123. The transmembrane potential change was measured using the fluorescent probe oxonol. Preincubating the cells with micromolar concentrations of the indole resulted in an increase of the response to PMA. In two of six subjects investigated, the respiratory burst was also increased by a 10 nM concentration of the indole, but when the melatonin concentration was increased to 2 mM the respiratory burst was inhibited. The change in the transmembrane potential of neutrophils paralleled the respiratory burst. Indeed, the treatment of the cells with doses of melatonin up to 0.5 mM increased the depolarization occurring subsequent to PMA stimulation, whereas 2 mM melatonin concentration decreased the extent of depolarization. To investigate whether melatonin could directly affect the transmembrane potential changes of neutrophils, the extent of depolarization, induced by increasing the extracellular potassium concentration, was measured in cells preincubated with 2 mM melatonin. This treatment resulted in a decrease of the extent of depolarization, which suggests that melatonin can directly alter membrane ion conductance in human neutrophils.
Melatonin increases gene expression for antioxidant enzymes in rat brain cortex
Authors: Kotler Mónica , Rodríguez Carmen , Sáinz Rosa M. , Antolin Isaac , Menéndez‐Peláez Armando
Published: February 2007

Kotler M, Rodríguez C, Sáinz RM, Antolín I, Menéndez‐Peláez A. Melatonin increases gene expression for antioxidant enzymes in rat brain cortex. J. Pineal Res. 1998; 24:83–89. © Munksgaard, Copenhagen

During the last years several reports have demonstrated that melatonin is a efficient free radical scavenger and general antioxidant. In addition, it has been shown that this neurohormone is able to increase the activity of glutathione peroxidase in rat brain cortex as well as the gene expression for some antioxidant enzymes in the Harderian gland of female Syrian hamster. Also, it is well known that brain cells are particularly exposed to free radicals, with antioxidant enzymes as the major defense mechanism that the brain uses to neutralize reactive oxygen species. The aim of the present study was to examine the influence of melatonin on gene expression for antioxidant enzymes in rat brain cortex. Our results clearly demonstrate that exogenously administered melatonin increases the levels of mRNA for glutathione peroxidase, copper‐zinc superoxide dismutase, and manganese superoxide dismutase in this tissue. These stimulatory effects are observed after both acute and chronic treatment with this hormone, producing in the latter case the more marked increase. We therefore conclude that melatonin exerts an important role in providing indirect protection against free radical injury by stimulating gene expression for antioxidant enzymes. Consequently, melatonin could be considered as a potential therapeutic agent in some age‐related neurodegenerative diseases where excessive free radical production has been implicated.
Circadian variations in the rat serum total antioxidant status: Correlation with melatonin levels
Authors: Benot Soledad , Molinero Patrocinio , Soutto Mohammed , Goberna Raimundo , Guerrero Juan M.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: In this paper, we show for the first time, a nyctohemeral rhythm in serum total antioxidant status (TAS) in rats which parallels the 24‐H melatonin cycle. Both TAS and melatonin in rat serum exhibited 24 hr variations with nocturnal peak values at 05.00 hr and low basal values during the day. When rats were maintained under light exposure (>500 lux) from 20.00 h to 05.00 hr, serum TAS was significantly reduced when compared with control rat killed in darkness. Moreover, when animals were maintained under continuous light exposure for 5 days and killed at 05.00 hr, serum TAS exhibited an additional decrease when compared with control rats. Since administering exogenous melatonin also increased TAS in the rat serum, results suggest that melatonin may be relevant in terms of participating in the antioxidative capacity of the rat serum.
Protective effect of melatonin in a model of traumatic brain injury in mice
Authors: Mésenge Christian , Margaill Isabelle , Verrecchia Catherine , Allix Monique , Boulu Roger G. , Plotkine Michel
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:The pineal hormone melatonin has recently been shown to exert neuroprotective activity in a variety of experimental neuropathologies in which free radicals are involved. This neuroprotective effect has been attributed to the antioxidant properties of melatonin. Considering that free radicals also play a deleterious role in traumatic brain injury (TBI), the purpose of the present study was to determine whether melatonin would have a beneficial effect in this pathology. Head injury was induced in mice and the neurological deficit was evaluated at 24 hr by a grip test. In this model, the free radical scavenger, α‐phenyl‐tert‐butyl‐nitrone (2 ± 100 mg/ kg, i.p.) given 5 min and repeated at 4 hr after TBI was neuroprotective. Melatonin (1.25 mg/kg, i.p.) given 5 min and repeated at 1,2, and 3 hr after head trauma also significantly reduced the neurological deficit. This beneficial effect was not due to melatonin‐induced hypothermia since repeated treatment with melatonin did not modify the colonic temperature of mice. This study shows that melatonin exerts a beneficial effect on the neurological deficit induced by traumatic brain injury in mice. The mechanisms of this neuroprotection remains to be established, and more particularly, the contribution of the antioxidant activity of melatonin.
Daily and photoperiodic 2‐ 125I‐melatonin binding changes in the pars tuberalis of the Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus): Effect of constant light exposure and pinealectomy
Authors: Recio Joaquín , Gauer François , Schuster Carole , Pévet Paul , Masson‐Pévef Mireille
Published: February 2007

Abstract: Using quantitative autoradiography, 2125I‐melatonin binding was investigated throughout the light/dark cycle in the pars tuberalis (PT) of the pituitary of adult Syrian hamsters kept for 8 weeks either in long or short photoperiod (LP or SP, respectively). Melatonin receptor density in the PT displayed photoperiod dependent daily variations (maximal values in LP). Indeed, in LP, melatonin receptor density underwent strong daily variations with maximal values during the first half of the light period and minimal values at the end of the night. These variations depended on changes in the maximal binding (Bmax) without differences in the dissociation constant (Kd). In contrast, PT melatonin receptor density was constant and at a very low level throughout the 1ight:dark cycle in SP exposed animals. Daily PT melatonin receptor density variations of LP exposed animals were abolished by pinealectomy or continuous light exposure. These results show clearly that both at the daily and at the seasonal level the regulation of PT melatonin receptors is strongly dependent on circulating melatonin concentrations in the Syrian hamster, but that other regulatory factors, yet unclarified, might also play a role.
The oncostatic action of melatonin in an ovarian carcinoma cell line
Authors: Petranka John , Baldwin William , Biermann Jennifer , Jayadev Supriya , Barrett J. Carl , Murphy Elizabeth
Published: February 2007

Abstract: Melatonin is reported to reduce proliferation in many cell types, but the effect is small and the results are inconsistent. Information on the mechanism by which melatonin exerts its antiproliferative effects might provide insight into the variability of the response. In an ovarian adenocarcinoma cell line (BG‐1), we find that melatonin at concentrations of 10−9‐10−7 M caused a 20–25% reduction in cell number. Melatonin also resulted in a similar reduction in [3H]‐thymidine incorporation with no significant increase in cell death as measured by trypan blue incorporation. The Kd for melatonin reduction in cell number was ∼ 5 × 10−10 M. Melatonin ML2 receptors have a Kd for melatonin binding in the low nM range and are linked to the production of the calcium mobilizing agent inositol‐1, 4, 5‐trisphosphate (IP3). To investigate whether melatonin signaling involves an increase in cytosolic‐free calcium, BG‐1 cells were loaded with the calcium sensitive indicator, fura‐2. Acute addition of melatonin (10−5‐10−9 M) did not alter cytosolic calcium. Addition of the putative nuclear receptor agonist CGP52608 caused a dose‐dependent inhibition of cell number with a Kd of ∼ 2 × 10−9 M. Addition of CGP52608 caused a similar reduction in [3H]‐thymidine incorporation. Neither melatonin (10−8 M‐10−5 M) nor CGP52608 at concentrations below 10−7 M induced cell death associated with the inhibition of cell proliferation; however, addition of CGP52608 at a high dose (10−7 M) caused an increase in cell death, consistent with apoptosis. Growth inhibition by melatonin or CGP52608 did not alter the percentage of cells in G1 versus S/G2/M.
Chemoneuroendocrine therapy of metastatic breast cancer with persistent thrombocytopenia with weekly low‐dose epirubicin plus melatonin: A phase II study
Authors: Lissoni P. , Tancini G. , Paolorossi F. , Mandalà M. , Ardizzoia A. , Malugani F. , Giani L. , Barni S.
Published: February 2007

Abstract: Thrombocytopenia is a frequent complication of cancer and constitutes an absolute contraindication for chemotherapy. Recent studies have demonstrated that platelet generation may be influenced by both cytokines and neurohormones. In particular, the pineal indole melatonin has been proven to enhance platelet number in patients with thrombocytopenia due to different reasons. On this basis, we have evaluated the effects of a concomitant administration of melatonin in thrombocytopenic cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The study was performed in 14 metastatic breast cancer women treated by weekly epirubicin. Each cycle consisted of epirubicin at 25 mg/m2 i. v. at weekly intervals. Melatonin was given orally at 20 mg/day in the evening every day, starting 7 days prior to chemotherapy. Patients were considered as evaluable when they received at least four cycles of chemotherapy. Evaluable patients were 12/14. The induction phase with melatonin induced a normalization of platelet number in 9/12 evaluable patients, and no further platelet decline occurred on chemotherapy. Objective tumor regression was achieved in 5/12 (41%) patients. This preliminary study would suggest that melatonin may be effective in the treatment of cancer‐related thrombocytopenia and to prevent chemotherapy‐induced platelet decline. Until now, melatonin therapy of cancer has been generally considered as an alternative treatment to chemotherapy. In contrast, this study would suggest that melatonin may contribute to the realization of chemotherapy in metastatic cancer patients unable to tolerate the chemotherapeutic approach because of persistent thrombocytopenia.
Day/night variation of tryptophan hydroxylase and serotonin N‐acetyltransferase mRNA levels in the ovine pineal gland and retina
Authors: Privat Karen , Ravault Jean‐Paul , Chesneau Didier , Fevre‐Montange Michelle
Published: February 2007

Abstract: In mammals, the photoperiodic information, received by the retina, is transmitted to the pineal gland. In both organs, melatonin is produced and functions as a neurohorinone giving temporal information to the organism. A four‐step enzymatic pathway, involving in particular the tryptophan hydroxylase (TPOH), the rate‐limiting enzyme in serotonin synthesis, and the serotonin N‐acetyltransferase (NAT) that converts serotonin to N‐acetylserotonin, allows the synthesis of melatonin. Many studies on melatonin synthesis modulation have focused on the enzyme NAT, but the regulation of TPOH is less well understood. We report here a quantitative study, using a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis. of the nycthemeral expression of TPOH and NAT mRNAs in the ovine retina and pineal gland. In both organs, we show a nocturnal increase in mRNA levels of the two enzymes, suggesting a role of transcriptional mechanisms in the regulation of melatonin synthesis. However, the amplitude of the observed increase in TPOH and NAT mRNAs expression can not entirely explain the 7‐fold nocturnal increase in the plasma melatonin level. Our results suggest that, in the sheep, post‐transcriptional mechanisms might also be involved in the day/night modulation of melatonin production.
The pineal secretory product melatonin reduces hydrogen peroxide‐induced DNA damage in U‐937 cells
Authors: Romero MaPaz , Osuna Carmen , Garcia‐Pergañeda Antonio , Carrillo‐Vico Antonio , Guerrero Juan M.
Published: February 2007

Abstract: Melatonin, the chief secretory product of the pineal gland, is a potent and efficient endogenous radical scavenger. Thus, melatonin was shown to protect different biomolecules, such as DNA, membrane lipids, and cytosolic proteins, from oxidative damage induced by oxygen‐derived free radicals. In order to study the protective role of melatonin in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐induced DNA damage, U‐937 cells were treated with different concentrations of H2O2, either in the presence or absence of melatonin, and DNA damage was assessed using the cytokinesis‐block micronucleus technique. Melatonin diminished H2O2‐induced micronuclei production both in short and long treatments. Additionally, melatonin concentrations higher than 1 μM were capable of protecting cells from spontaneous micronuclei production. These data suggest that melatonin, an endogenous antioxidant and nontoxic compound, may have an important role in protecting cells from genetic damage due to free radicals, supporting the idea of this hormone as a possible therapeutic agent in preventing aging and age‐related diseases.
Interleukin‐1β expression in the pineal gland of the rat
Authors: Tsai S. ‐Y. , McNulty J. A.
Published: February 2007

Abstract: Increasing evidence of the neuroimmunomodulatory role of the pineal gland prompted the present study of pineal gland expression of the immunoregulatory cytokine, interleukin (IL)‐1β. IL‐1β was constitutively expressed in the adult gland, with mRNA levels higher in glands collected during the photophase than in those collected during the scotophase of the light:dark cycle. IL‐1β was up‐regulated in pineal cultures, after treatment with either norepinephrine (NE) or interferon (IFN)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Although both astrocytes and microglia expressed IL‐1β, important differences were found in the cellular expression of this cytokine under in vivo and in vitro conditions. Increased IL‐1β expression by NE ex vivo and the decline in IL‐I expression at night, when NE levels are elevated, can be explained by immunocytochemical data showing that astrocytes are the predominant cell type expressing this cytokine in vivo, whereas IL‐1β‐positive cells are predominantly microglia in pineal explants and dispersed cell cultures. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that cytokines secreted by pineal glia (astrocytes and microglia) may have an important regulatory role in the pineal gland.
Correlation between a Cutometer® and quantitative evaluation using Moire topography in age‐related skin elasticity
Authors: Ahn Sungyeon , Kim Seunghun , Lee Haekwang , Moon Seongjoon , Chang Ihseop
Published: February 2007

Background/purpose: As aging occurs, our skin gets more wrinkles, becomes drier and loses its elasticity. Validating the evaluation of skin elasticity is especially important, because it is not as visible as other signs of aging such as wrinkles. So it is needed that the method for measuring skin elasticity is able to reflect perception about the change of the skin state.

Methods: Here, the correlation between age and the parameters given by a Cutometer® is identified and the main parameters that reflect the decreases in skin elasticity in terms of ages are presented. Also, Moire's system, an evaluation method to quantify the sensory value of viewing, is developed. A five‐grade standard of Moire topographic photo scale on the face is used to evaluate the state of skin elasticity and lifting 20‐ to 61‐year‐old women. Based on this photo standard, scoring is performed using a five‐grade system by three specialists to obtain the consensus score. The score is compared with the result of a Cutometer®.

Results: Significant negative correlations between age and results of a Cutometer® (r=−0.687−0.725), Moire's topography scores (r=−938), were found. Some Cutometer® parameters and the decreases in skin elasticity in terms of ages were highly correlated (r=−0.687−0.725). The results from Moire system and flexibility as sensory evaluation also had a very high correlation with age (r=−0.765−0.932). Finally, we have shown the significance of the correlation between the result of a Cutometer® and the score of Moire topography (r=0.711).

Conclusions: It is considered that Cutometer® parameters R7 and R2 are used as main parameters to assess skin elasticity and aging. And our studies using Moire topography on the face have confirmed that instrumental measurements reflect the decrease in skin elasticity, which is perceived visually.
Hot Embossing: An Alternative Method to Produce Cavities in Ceramic Multilayer
Authors: Rabe Torsten , Kuchenbecker Petra , Schulz Baerbel , Schmidt Martin
Published: February 2007

New applications of ceramic multilayers, for example, in biotechnology, sensor technology, and chemical micro‐reaction technique, call for cavities with complex geometries. Hot embossing offers a promising, cost‐effective way to generate these structures on the surfaces of green tapes or laminates. Cavities inside low‐temperature co‐fired ceramic multilayer were manufactured by a combination of hot embossing, lamination by a special adhesive technique, and zero shrinkage sintering. The edge and surface quality in the green state as well as the sintered multilayers with surface structures and cavities were extensively characterized by laser surface scanning, optical and ultrasound microscopy. Sintering shrinkage of hot‐embossed laminates could be reduced in the x and y directions to less than 0.5%.
A VISCOSITY MODEL FOR A COOKING DOUGH1
Authors: REMSEN CHARLES H. , CLARK J. PETER
Published: February 2007

A five parameter semi‐empirical model is developed describing the apparent viscosity of a cooking dough as a function of applied shear rate, temperature, and time‐temperature history. Such a model will be useful in the mathematical simulation of the extrusion cooking process.

Other factors which can affect the apparent viscosity of a cooking dough are also discussed. The viscosity model is verified and the constants evaluated for a typical dough by combining the results of Amylograph and capillary viscometer experiments.
BREAKAGE OF RICE DURING MILLING — EFFECT OF KERNEL DEFECTS AND GRAIN DIMENSION1
Authors: SWAMY Y. M. INDUDHARA , BHATTACHARYA K. R.
Published: February 2007

Ten lots of paddy having varying dimensions and contents of cracked and immature grains were milled using laboratory McGill equipment. Grain breakage seemed to originate almost entirely from kernel defects, for it rarely exceeded the content of defective grains. In short and round varieties, a good part of the highly defective (HD = multiple‐cracked and immature) grains but few of those with a single transverse crack (STC) broke during shelling, and the remaining HD grains seemed to break during pearling. In medium and slender varieties, most HD and a good part of STC grains broke during shelling any remaining HD (but not STC) grains appeared to break during pearling. Breakage during pearling increased (within the above limits) with increasing degree and pressure of milling. Improved shelling gave substantial advantage for undermilled rice, but only a moderate advantage for highly milled rice.
FACTORS AFFECTING PERFORMANCE OF BRINE DRIVEN EVAPORATORS
Authors: KIM KONG‐HWAN , SCHWARTZBERG HENRY G. , ROSENAU JOHN R.
Published: February 2007

Concentrated CaCl2 and LiCl brines were used to evaporatively concentrate liquid foods. The concentration was carried out in double falling film evaporators in which brine flowed down the outside of the tubes and liquid food flowed down the inside. The vapor spaces between the brine and the food were connected and vapor from the food was absorbed in the brine. The heat generated by vapor absorption in the brine provided the heat needed to sustain evaporation, and was transferred to the food because of the boiling point elevation of the brine. Evaporation rates approaching those obtained in commercial evaporators were obtained for skim milk, sugar solutions and orange juice. The evaporation rates were affected by flow rates, temperature, concentration and tube material.
MODELLING DRY MATTER LOSSES FROM CARROTS DURING BLANCHING
Authors: KINCAL N. SUZAN , KAYMAK FIGEN
Published: February 2007

The mechanism of component losses from carrots during blanching was investigated by determination of reducing sugars, sucrose, total soluble solids and total solids in raw and variously blanched samples of Nantes carrots. the samples were 26 mm diameter, 26 or 60 mm long; blanching temperatures ranged 65–100°C and blanching times ranged 300–3600 s. Experiments were conducted using large amounts of well agitated water. Appropriate solutions of the unsteady state diffusion equation for finite cylinder geometry were used. the apparent diffusivities of each component were determined separately at different temperatures and resulting values correlated linearly or exponentially with temperature. the order‐of‐magnitudes of the apparent diffusivities were found to be 10−10‐10−11 m2s−1 and in good agreement with literature values.
FORMULAS FOR ESTIMATING SMITH ET AL. PARAMETERS to DETERMINE the MASS AVERAGE TEMPERATURE of IRREGULARLY SHAPED BODIES
Authors: HAYAKAWA KAN‐ICHI , VILLALOBOS GONZALO
Published: February 2007

The Smith et al. method has been widely used for estimating the transient state and mass average temperature of an irregularly shaped food. For the computer implementation of their method, regression formulas were obtained to estimate a characteristic root applicable to an irregular body by using their nomograph. the Smith et al. method was improved for direct determination with two heat penetration parameters, f and j, without using temperature response charts as recommended by Smith et al.
ELASTIC MODULUS of ORANGE JUICE ICE
Authors: WATANABE HISAHIKO , HAGURA YOSHIO , ISHIKAWA MASANOBU , MIHORI TOMOO , SAKAI YOSHIO
Published: February 2007

The elastic modulus of orange juice ice as well as pure water ice was measured at temperatures between − 10°C and − 196°C by compression tests. the elastic modulus of pure water ice was almost constant in the whole range of the tested temperatures: 5.6 × 109 N/m2 at − 196°C and 4.0 × 109 N/m2 at − 10°C. In contrast, the elastic modulus of orange juice ice changed greatly with temperature: 11 × 109 N/m2 at − 196°C and 0.2 × 109 N/m2 at − 10°C. Orange juice ice was considered to consist of pure water ice particles which are dispersed in a matrix of concentrated amorphous solution (CAS). the elastic modulus of CAS was calculated using an equation for a disperse system.
INFLUENCE of CONCENTRATION of MILK SOLIDS ON FREEZE‐DRYING RATE of YOGHURT and ITS QUALITY1
Authors: SHARMA N.K. , ARORA C.P. , MITAL B.K.
Published: February 2007

An increase in milk solids in yoghurt from 14.7 to 20.4%, obtained by adding NFDM (2–8% wv) to whole cow milk enhances the yield of freeze‐dried yoghurt from 0.2196 to 0.3067 kg/(m2.h). A reduction of 25.8% in drying time per unit output occurs when the concentration of milk solids in yoghurt increases from 14.7 to 18.8%. A further increase in the solids concentration of yoghurt from 18.8 to 20.4% results in a 5.7% reduction in the drying time. Organoleptic evaluation showed that an increase in the milk solids to 18.8% enhances the acceptability of the product. A further increase in the level of milk solids imparts a chalky taste to the product.
DESCRIPTION of LOG PHASE GROWTH FOR SELECTED MICROORGANISMS DURING MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE STORAGE1
Authors: ZHAO YANYUN , WELLS JOHN HENRY , MARSHALL DOUGLAS L.
Published: February 2007

Two mathematical descriptions based on (1) a modified and additive Arrhenius equation and (2) a modified Arrhenius temperature characteristic equation were developed to describe the combined effects of time, temperature and initial gas composition of modified atmosphere storage on the population growth rate coefficients of Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant interaction of temperature with [O2]/(1 + [CO2]) ratio, such that a combined temperature and gas composition ratio term was not needed in an additive Arrhenius description. the Arrhenius temperature characteristic term (μ) was found to be related to the [O2]/(1 + [CO2]). Growth rate coefficients of bacterial populations could be estimated by substituting a term functionally relating to [O2]/(1 + [CO2]) ratio for the μ coefficient in the Arrhenius expression. the mathematical descriptions were shown applicable for determining bacterial population growth rate coefficients in modified atmosphere storage for oxygen concentration from 0 to 20.99% and carbon dioxide concentration from 0.03 to 80%.
SEPARATION of CHOLESTEROL FROM BUTTEROIL USING QUILLAJA SAPONINS. 1. EFFECTS of PH, CONTACT TIME and ADSORBENT
Authors: SUNDFELD ESDRAS , YUN SUSAN , KROCHTA JOHN M. , RICHARDSON THOMAS
Published: February 2007

The technical feasibility of separating cholesterol from butteroil by contacting it with aqueous solutions of Quillaja saponaria saponins followed by separation of the cholesterol‐saponin complex was studied. Alternative processes and controls compared were (1) Water Control (W): butteroil was contacted with pure water; (2) Reaction (R): butteroil was contacted with aqueous solution of saponins; (3) Adsorption Control (A): butteroil was contacted with water, diatomaceous earth was then added; (4) Reaction + Adsorption (R+A): diatomaceous earth was added to the Reaction medium (from 2); (5) Reaction + Washing (R+W): the aqueous phase resulting from Reaction (2) was discarded and pure water contacted with the fat. the last step in all the above processes and controls was the separation of the fat phase where cholesterol was determined. Statistical analysis indicated that the Adsorption Control did not yield any significant cholesterol reduction over the Water Control, while all other processes gave significant reduction. the order of cholesterol separation observed was R+A > R+W > R. the levels of cholesterol reduction were significantly affected by pH of quillaja solution and amount of adsorbent used; the time of contact with quillaja solution had no significant effect over the range investigated. These results indicate the technical feasibility of reducing the cholesterol levels of butteroil using food grade quillaja saponins.
PRECOOLING of CYLINDRICALLY SHAPED GRAPES: EXPERIMENTAL and THEORETICAL HEAT TRANSFER RATES
Authors: DINCER IBRAHIM
Published: February 2007

Transient heat transfer during the forced‐air precooling of cylindrically shaped grapes in a batch of 5 kg was investigated both experimentally and theoretically. Experiments were conducted to measure center temperatures of the cylindrical grapes in air at 4C, and flow velocities of 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, and 2 m/s. From the experimental temperature data, the dimensionless measured heat transfer rates were determined. Considering both convection and radiation, the dimensionless theoretical heat transfer rates were predicted. Good agreement was shown to exist between the predicted and experimental results. Therefore, the simple and accurate method of this study is applicable to the estimation of heat transfer rates.
USE of EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN to ESTABLISH OPTIMAL CROSSFLOW FILTRATION CONDITIONS: APPLICATION to RAW CANE SUGAR CLARIFICATION
Authors: DORNIER M. , DECLOUX M. , LEBERT A. , TRYSTRAM G.
Published: February 2007

A methodology based on central composite experimental design is proposed in order to find the optimal operating conditions of crossflow filtration with a new product/membrane combination. This approach provides an optimal operating zone with good security and fewer pilot plant tests than usual. Interesting results are found when this strategy is applied to the clarification of raw cane sugar by using microfiltration with an inorganic membrane. Maximum fluxes are obtained with the lowest transmembrane pressures and highest crossflow velocities. Analysis of data using forward selection stepwise multiple regression is illustrated with respect to classical response surface method.
A METHOD FOR MEASURING THERMAL TIME DISTRIBUTIONS IN CONTINUOUS FLOW HEAT EXCHANGERS
Authors: ELLBORG A. , TRÄGÅRDH Ch.
Published: February 2007

This study deals with the distribution of heat treatment of liquids which flow through heat exchangers. the distribution is induced by the combined effect of velocity and temperature gradients and is referred to as the thermal time distribution (TTD).

A tracer technique based on the acid hydrolysis of dextran was developed for assessing the TTD. the change in the shape of the molecular weight distribution (MWD) of the polymer during the course of the reaction was found to be related to the TTD exposure of the fluid and the shape of the MWD could be described by means of statistical moments.

A computer‐based model for simulating the TTD in a tube heat exchanger, in turbulent flow, was developed together with a model for simulating the effect of the TTD on the change in the MWD during dextran hydrolysis. the simulation model gave results that were in qualitative agreement with the experiments.
A RESOURCE TRACKING METHOD FOR the FOOD INDUSTRY
Authors: BARCENAS CANDELARIA , NORBACK JOHN P.
Published: February 2007

Matrix Data Structure (MDS) and the Gozinto Procedure (GP) can be the basis for resource tracking and for costing systems used in the food industry. These methods have enjoyed great success and broad application among fabricators, but they have not been used much in process industries, including the food industry. While the main data entry requirement for such a system is to build accurate bills of material (BOM) for the intermediate and finished products, this is not sufficient to make a useful application in the food industry. Food and other process industries need such a system to convert between purchase units, batch units and sales units. This conversion problem and the existence of unit operations that are separation processes have prevented the application of these methods in the industry. These two problems have led to many ad hoc methods for calculating costs and tracking resource use. the unit conversion problem (purchasing in pounds, kilograms or gallons of input materials, processing batches of intermediate products, and selling containers or cases of finished product) is solved by introducing a unit conversion matrix to the system. the problem of multiple counting the input material going into a separation process is solved by using dummy input material names for the BOM of the products coming out of the separation process. the solution to these problems have provided access to the structural power of MDS as an organizational tool and the application of GP to the matrix structure to obtain integrated, consistently computed information to support managers in the production planning and control activities.
TREATMENT of POULTRY CHILLER WATER BY FLOCCULATION1
Authors: NG KENG C. , HUXSOLL CHARLES C. , TSAI LEE S.
Published: February 2007

A laboratory study was conducted to assess the efficiency of using a combination of flocculating substances to remove organic constituents from poultry chiller water. Rice bran in combination with commercial flocculant AP‐273 (polyelectrolyte) removed 60% and 72% of chemical oxygen demand (COD) from low and high COD samples, respectively. Addition of granular activated carbon to the flocculant mixture increased COD removal to about 75%, respectively, from the same samples. Turbidity (suspended particles) of the chiller water was reduced by more than 90% using flocculant AP‐273 plus rice bran. Chlorine demands were also greatly reduced. Soluble inorganic mineral content was not reduced by the combined flocculating substances. the residues collected after flocculation could be used as a feed ingredient, or as an organic fertilizer. Flocculation of chiller water would be a beneficial pretreatment to further recycling processes or to microfiltration of chiller water for reuse.
A SOLUTION to the EQUATIONS GOVERNING HEAT TRANSFER IN AGITATING LIQUID/PARTICULATE CANNED FOODS
Authors: STOFOROS NIKOLAOS G. , MERSON RICHARD L.
Published: February 2007

A semi‐analytical (concerning the particle temperature) semi‐numerical (concerning the fluid temperature) solution to the differential equations governing heat transfer to axially rotating liquid/particulate canned foods was obtained using Duhamel's theorem and a numerical 4th‐order Runge‐Kutta scheme. This solution avoids some of the shortcomings of earlier solutions such as the requirement for constant heating medium temperature, the need for empirical formulas, or the use of unrealistic assumptions regarding the fluid temperature. the agreement between the proposed solution and limiting case analytical results was very good. A maximum fluid temperature difference of less than 2C was momentarily observed at the beginning of heating; differences between particle surface temperatures were even smaller. Comparison between predicted values and experimental data from the literature showed good agreement only as far as the fluid temperature was concerned; particle surface temperatures deviated significantly.
EVALUATION of DIE SWELL and VOLUMETRIC EXPANSION IN CORN MEAL EXTRUDATES1
Authors: FALLER J.F. , HUFF H.E. , HSIEH F.
Published: February 2007

A method to determine die swell in the presence of volumetric expansion due to moisture vaporization in extruded food products is proposed. the method is applied to twin screw extrusion of corn meal in a study to investigate the effects of extruder die parameter (exit capillary length and entrance cone angle), screw speed, and specific feeding load on die swell and volumetric expansion. the die swell results are compared with known effects for nonexpanded polymers.

Die swell tended to decrease with increasing exit length, but had only a weak response to entrance angle. Increasing specific feeding load (SFL) increased die swell, where as increasing screw speed produced increases or decreases in die swell, depending on the SFL. Die swells ranged from approximately 1.2 to 1.7, accounted for approximately 10 to 22% of the total radial expansion, and for approximately 18 to 38% of the extrudate cross sectional area.

Volumetric expansion increased with increasing die exit length, but was insensitive to entrance angle with a slight concave upward response. Increasing screw speed produced large increases in volumetric expansion, while increasing SFL produced only slight increases.

Observations about die swell compare favorably with previous studies of nonexpanded polymers, suggesting that the proposed analysis method may be useful for food viscoelasticity evaluation studies.
MODELING the POWER CONSUMPTION DURING SHEETING of DOUGHS FOR TRADITIONAL INDIAN FOODS
Authors: RAGHAVAN C.V. , CHAND NAGIN , BABU R. SRICHANDAN , RAO P.N. SRINIVASA
Published: February 2007

The model given by Levine has been extended to account for the effects of moisture, salt and fat through appropriate modifications based on theory and computational experience. Appropriate modifications to consistency index and flow behavior index as a function of moisture, salt and fat are given. the thickness of sheeted dough has been modeled as a function of gap, reduction ratio and the flow behavior index which constitutes an important contribution. the model so modified was fitted to experimental data on power consumption in sheeting dough prepared from two flour types, viz., whole wheat flour and resultant atta, respectively, at five combinations of gap and reduction ratios and three levels each of moisture, salt and fat (conforming to actual use ranges) using Nelder‐Mead algorithm for nonlinear optimization. These models provided 12 constants for each flour type which gave fundamental information on the dough properties for each flour type. Three‐dimensional graphics have been used to interpret the model. These models appear to be of much practical use.