bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defective peroxisomal proliferators activated receptor gamma activity due to dominant‐negative mutation synergizes with hypertension to accelerate cardiac fibrosis in mice
Authors: Kis Adrienn , Murdoch Colin , Zhang Min , Siva Anjana , Rodriguez‐Cuenca Sergio , Carobbio Stefania , Lukasik Agnes , Blount Margaret , O'Rahilly Steve , Gray Sarah L. , Shah Ajay M. , Vidal‐Puig Antonio
Published: April 2009

Aims

Humans with inactivating mutations in peroxisomal proliferators activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) typically develop a complex metabolic syndrome characterized by insulin resistance, diabetes, lipodystrophy, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia which is likely to increase their cardiovascular risk. Despite evidence that the activation of PPARγ may prevent cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy, recent evidence has suggested that pharmacological activation of PPARγ causes increased cardiovascular mortality. In this study, we investigated the effects of defective PPARγ function on the development of cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy in a murine model carrying a human dominant‐negative mutation in PPARγ.

Methods and results

Mice with a dominant‐negative point mutation in PPARγ (P465L) and their wild‐type (WT) littermates were treated with either subcutaneous angiotensin II (AngII) infusion or saline for 2 weeks. Heterozygous P465L and WT mice developed a similar increase in systolic blood pressure, but the mutant mice developed significantly more severe cardiac fibrosis to AngII that correlated with increased expression of profibrotic genes. Both groups similarly increased the heart weight to body weight ratio compared with saline‐treated controls. There were no differences in fibrosis between saline‐treated WT and P465L mice.

Conclusion

These results show synergistic pathogenic effects between the presence of defective PPARγ and AngII‐induced hypertension and suggest that patients with PPARγ mutation and hypertension may need more aggressive therapeutic measures to reduce the risk of accelerated cardiac fibrosis.
Adherence to angiotensin‐converting‐enzyme inhibitors and illness beliefs in older heart failure patients
Authors: Molloy Gerard J. , Gao Chuan , Johnston Derek W. , Johnston Marie , Witham Miles D. , Struthers Allan D. , McMurdo Marion E.T.
Published: April 2009

Aims

Patient beliefs about heart failure (HF) may be important determinants of adherence. This study assessed levels of adherence to angiotensin‐converting‐enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and examined whether beliefs about HF were associated with adherence to ACEI.

Methods and results

Fifty‐eight patients with chronic stable HF (mean age 80.2 years SD ± 4.6, 43% female) were recruited from two outpatient clinics in Dundee, UK. The Illness Perception Questionnaire‐Revised was used to assess beliefs about HF. Adherence to ACEI was assessed by measuring serum levels of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (sACE). Adherence to ACEI (defined as sACE <5 U/L) was 72%. Beliefs about the time‐line of HF and the consequences of HF accounted for 19% of the variability in adherence to ACEI in this sample. Heart failure patients who believed that their illness had a more chronic (longer term) time frame and had beliefs about the greater consequences of HF on their lives were less likely to adhere to ACEI.

Conclusion

Adherence to ACEI is sub‐optimal. Beliefs about HF appear to be associated with objectively measured adherence to ACEI. Future studies should attempt to identify beliefs that consistently predict adherence and examine whether modifying these beliefs can increase adherence to HF medications.
Temporal variability of 10-year global SeaWiFS time-series of phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentration
Authors: Vantrepotte V. , Mélin F.
Published: April 2009

Vantrepotte, V., and Mélin, F. 2009. Temporal variability of 10-year global SeaWiFS time-series of phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentration. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1547–1556. The Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS) global dataset now offers a 10-year time-series of a consistent, well-calibrated, ocean colour record suitable to analyse temporal variability. The relative importance of the seasonal term in the chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentration signal is first assessed using statistical techniques of temporal decomposition. The emphasis is on the Census method II (X-11) approach, which allows year-to-year variations in the seasonal component. The seasonality detected in the SeaWiFS Chl a record is analysed through a generic province-based classification of marine ecosystems and at global scale and is found very variable spatially. Working with 5′-resolution gridded Chl a products, the contribution of the seasonal component derived from X-11 amounts to 64% of the total variance, compared with only 36% if a fixed annual cycle is assumed. The capacity of X-11 to capture interannual variations in seasonality is used to diagnose the stability of the Chl a seasonal cycle. Finally, linear changes in Chl a concentration observed after a decade of continuous ocean colour record agree globally with previous observations on shorter series. Significant changes of both signs are detected in various regions of the world’s oceans, but primarily a general decrease of Chl a in the mid-ocean gyres.
Manuscript Preparation
Authors: Iverson Cheryl
Published: April 2009

Preparation of a scholarly manuscript requires thoughtful consideration of the topic and anticipation of the reader’s needs and questions. Certain elements either are standard parts of all manuscripts or are used so often as to merit special instruction. These elements are discussed in this section in the order in which they appear in the manuscript. References are discussed separately in chapter 3 and tables and figures in chapter 4. The preparation of any manuscript for publication should take the requirements of the intended journal into account; this may enhance the chances of acceptance and expedite publication. For the author, manuscript preparation requires familiarity with the journal to which the article is submitted. Most journals publish instructions for authors, which serve as useful guides; some journals' instructions for authors contain a manuscript checklist (see that from JAMA1 [reproduced in this chapter as the Table] as an example)...
Visual Presentation of Data
Authors: Christiansen Stacy
Published: April 2009

Tables and figures demonstrate relationships among data and other types of information. A well-structured table is perhaps the most efficient way to convey a large amount of data in a scientific manuscript. As text, the same information may take considerably more space; if presented in a figure, key details and precise values may be less apparent. Text may be preferred if the information can be presented concisely (see Box). For qualitative information, text should be used if the relationships among data are simple and data are few, whereas a figure should be used if the relationships are complex. For quantitative information, a table should be used when the display of exact values is important, whereas a figure (eg, a line graph) should be used to demonstrate patterns or trends. Tables also are often preferable to graphics for small data sets and are preferred when data presentation requires many specific comparisons...
Non-English Words, Phrases, and Accent Marks
Authors: Gregoline Brenda
Published: April 2009

Some words and phrases derived from other languages have become part of standard English usage. Those that have not should be italicized (see 22.0, Typography), and usually a definition should be given. Consult standard medical dictionaries and the most recent edition of Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary for guidance. A public health investigation revealed that the source of lead exposure was hai ge fen (clamshell powder), 1 of the 36 ingredients of the Chinese herbal medicine. In Vitro Susceptibility Testing of Antifungal Agents Medical information and advice abound on the Internet, but remember: Caveat lector. Lorenz Böhler, the son of a carpenter, eventually became the praeceptor traumatologiae totus mundi (teacher of traumatology in the whole world)...
Medical Indexes
Authors: McGregor Bruce , Meyer Harriet S.
Published: April 2009

Indexes are essential and highly valued components of medical textbooks and journals. Publishers should hire professional indexers conversant with medical terminology and allot sufficient time in the production schedule for a comprehensive index to be prepared. “Space limitations on indexes should not apply to medical books.” Medical indexes should aim for “accuracy, thorough analysis (subheads and cross-references), completeness/comprehensiveness [and] usability.” A textbook index should “tie together” discussions throughout of the same or related subject, eg, an infectious disease and its pathogen.

General references on indexing include Indexing Books, the indexing chapter in The Chicago Manual of Style, and Indexing From A to Z, which includes a section on biomedical indexing. The American Society of Indexers website provides indexing resources.6 Patton and Wyman’s online guide includes information specific to biomedical indexing. Biomedical indexing is covered in Indexing Specialties: Medicine and Indexing the Medical Sciences...
Abbreviations
Authors: Young Roxanne K.
Published: April 2009

Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines an abbreviation as “a shortened form of a written word or phrase used in place of the whole”3 (eg, Dr for doctor, US for United States, dB for decibel). An acronym is “formed from the initial letter or letters of each of the successive parts or major parts of a compound term”3(eg, ANCOVA for analysis of covariance). Acronyms are pronounced as words.
Units of Measure
Authors: Fontanarosa Phil B. , Christiansen Stacy
Published: April 2009

The presentation of quantitative scientific information is an integral component of biomedical publication. Accurate communication of scientific knowledge and presentation of numerical data require a scientifically informative system for reporting units of measure. The International System of Units (Le Système International d'Unités or SI) represents a modified version of the metric system that has been established by international agreement and currently is the official measurement system of most nations of the world.1 The SI promotes uniformity of quantities and units, minimizes the number of units and multiples used in other measurement systems, and can express virtually any measurement in science, medicine, industry, and commerce. In 1977, the World Health Organization recommended the adoption of the SI by the international scientific community. Since then, many biomedical publications throughout the world have adopted SI units as their preferred and primary method for reporting scientific measurements...
Typography
Authors: Flanagin Annette
Published: April 2009

Typography is broadly defined as the composed arrangement and appearance of text and other elements on a surface that involves elements of design. The editor and graphic designer often cooperate in the process of creating the typography and design for a book, monograph, or journal (in print or online), with the goal of achieving a balance of form and readability. According to typographer Edmund Arnold, good design and typography for English-language publications follow the linear flow of the Latin alphabet and support the act of reading. The English language is read from left to right and from top to bottom. According to Arnold, when a reader of such language begins to read a printed page, the eyes first fall naturally to the top left corner and then move across and down the page, first from left to right and then in a right-to-left sweep to the next line, until reaching the bottom right corner. Any design or typographic element that forces the reader to work against this natural flow (reading gravity) interrupts the reading rhythm and should be avoided...
Glossary of Publishing Terms
Authors: Reiling Jennifer
Published: April 2009

This glossary is intended to define terms commonly encountered during editing and publishing as well as those editing and publishing as well as those industry terms that also have a more common vernacular meaning. The glossary is not all-inclusive. New terms and new usage of existing terms will emerge with time and advances in technology. Definitions for the terms herein were compiled from the ninth edition of this manual and the sources listed at the end of the chapter. Terms used in definitions that are defined elsewhere in this glossary are italic links.
Specific genomic sequences of E. coli promote replicational initiation by directly reactivating ADP-DnaA
Authors: Fujimitsu Kazuyuki , Senriuchi Takayuki , Katayama Tsutomu
Published: April 2009

In Escherichia coli, ATP-DnaA, unlike ADP-DnaA, can initiate chromosomal replication at oriC. The level of cellular ATP-DnaA fluctuates, peaking at around the time of replication initiation. However, it remains unknown how the ATP-DnaA level increases coordinately with the replication cycle. In this study, we show that two chromosomal intergenic regions, herein termed DnaA-reactivating sequence 1 (DARS1) and DnaA-reactivating sequence 2 (DARS2), directly promote regeneration of ATP-DnaA from ADP-DnaA by nucleotide exchange, resulting in the promotion of replication initiation in vitro and in vivo. Coordination of initiation with the cell cycle requires DARS activity and its regulation. Oversupply of DARSs results in increase in the ATP-DnaA level and enhancement of replication initiation, which can inhibit cell growth in an oriC-dependent manner. Deletion of DARSs results in decrease in the ATP-DnaA level and inhibition of replication initiation, which can cause synthetic lethality with a temperature-sensitive mutant dnaA and suppression of overinitiation by the lack of seqA or datA, negative regulators for initiation. DARSs bear a cluster of DnaA-binding sites. DnaA molecules form specific homomultimers on DARS1, which causes specific interactions among the protomers, reducing their affinity for ADP. Our findings reveal a novel regulatory pathway that promotes the initiation of chromosomal replication via DnaA reactivation.
Facilitating protein crystal cryoprotection in thick-walled plastic capillaries by high-pressure cryocooling
Authors: Chen Yi-Fan , Tate Mark W. , Gruner Sol M.
Published: April 2009

Many steps in the X-ray crystallographic solution of protein structures have been automated. However, the harvesting and cryocooling of crystals still rely primarily on manual handling, frequently with consequent mechanical damage. An attractive alternative is to grow crystals directly inside robust plastic capillaries that may be cryocooled and mounted on the beamline goniometer. In this case, it is still desirable to devise a way to cryoprotect the crystals, which is difficult owing to the poor thermal conductivity of thick plastic capillary walls and the large thermal mass of the capillary and internal mother liquor. A method is described to circumvent these difficulties. It is shown that high-pressure cryocooling substantially reduced the minimal concentrations of cryoprotectants required to cryocool water inside capillaries without formation of ice crystals. The minimal concentrations of PEG 200, PEG 400 and glycerol necessary for complete vitrification under pressure cryocooling were determined.
Fexofenadine hydrochloride enhances the efficacy of contact immunotherapy for extensive alopecia areata: Retrospective analysis of 121 cases
Authors: INUI Shigeki , NAKAJIMA Takeshi , TODA Naoyuki , ITAMI Satoshi
Published: April 2009

To study the effect of fexofenadine on extensive alopecia areata (AA), we evaluated retrospectively 121 patients with AA having alopecia in more than 50% of the scalp and followed them for at least 6 months. Patients were treated by immunotherapy using diphenylcyclopropenone or squaric acid dibutylester with or without oral fexofenadine. The regrowth score was estimated as decrease of Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score. In AA with atopic background (atopic AA), the mean regrowth score of the fexofenadine group was 1.333 (n = 33) and that of the control 0.471 (n = 34). The fexofenadine group showed significantly better regrowth than control by Mann–Whitney's U‐test (P = 0.00213). In non‐atopic AA, the mean regrowth score of the fexofenadine group was 1.303 (n = 33) and that of the control 1.048 (n = 21). There was no significant difference by Mann–Whitney's U‐test (P = 0.872). Together, fexofenadine is a helpful reagent in the treatment extensive atopic AA with contact immunotherapy.
Ultraviolet A irradiation of the eye activates a nitric oxide‐dependent hypothalamo–pituitary pro‐opiomelanocortin pathway and modulates the functions of Langerhans cells
Authors: HIRAMOTO Keiichi
Published: April 2009

Ultraviolet A (UV‐A) radiation decreases Langerhans cells (LC) in the skin specifically at the site of exposure. Unexpectedly, UV‐A irradiation of the eye has been found systemically downregulating epidermal LC in mice. Male C57BL/6j mice and an inducible type of nitric oxide synthase knockout mice (iNOS−/–) were used in this study. The eye or ear was locally exposed to UV‐A after covering the remaining body surface with aluminum foil at a dose of 110 kJ/m2using a sunlamp. Localized UV‐A irradiation of the eye downregulated epidermal LC. The hypophysectomy strongly inhibited the UV‐A‐induced downregulation of LC. To elucidate the pathway by UV‐A irradiation of the eye, the effect of a bilateral ciliary ganglionectomy and denervation of the optic nerves was examined. Optic nerve denervation strongly inhibited LC downregulation in response to localized irradiation of the eye. Furthermore, no LC downregulation in response to localized UV‐A irradiation of the eye was observed in iNOS−/–mice. These results clearly indicate that a signal evoked by UV‐A irradiation of the eye is transmitted in a nitric oxide‐dependent manner through the optic nerves to the hypothalamo–pituitary pro‐opiomelanocortin system.
Increase of regulatory T cells in the peripheral blood of dogs with metastatic tumors
Authors: Horiuchi Yutaka , Tominaga Makiko , Ichikawa Mika , Yamashita Masao , Jikumaru Yuri , Nariai Yoko , Nakajima Yuko , Kuwabara Masato , Yukawa Masayoshi
Published: April 2009

It is well known that lymphocytes from patients with advanced‐stage cancer have impaired immune responsiveness and that type1 T lymphocyte subsets in tumor bearing hosts are suppressed. Treg have been reported to comprise a subgroup which inhibits T cell mediated immune responses. In the present study, the percentage of Treg, Th1 and Tc1 in the peripheral blood of tumor bearing dogs with or without metastases was evaluated. The percentages of Th1 and Tc1 in dogs with metastatic tumor were significantly less, and that of Treg was significantly greater, than those of dogs without metastatic tumor. The percentage of Treg showed an inverse correlation with that of Th1 and Tc1 in tumor bearing dogs. It was concluded that an increase in Treg in the peripheral blood of dogs with metastatic tumor may induce suppression of tumor surveillance by the Type1 immune response and lead to metastasis of tumor[0][0].[0]
Human plasmacytoid dendritic cells express an atrial natriuretic peptide receptor, guanylyl cyclase‐A
Authors: Morita Rimpei , Fujita Tomoko , Uchiyama Takashi , Hori Toshiyuki
Published: April 2009

Atrial natriuretic peptide is a cardiovascular hormone secreted mainly by the cardiac atria and regulates the volume–pressure homeostasis. The action of ANP is mediated by GC‐A. We previously reported that human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells express GC‐A and respond to ANP with polarization toward a Th2‐inducing phenotype. In the present study, we explored the possibility that pDC are subjected to immunoregulation via the ANP/GC‐A system. We examined GC‐A expression on blood pDC and found that GC‐A was not expressed on fresh pDC but was induced after stimulation with CpG‐oligodeoxynucleotide AAC‐30, IL‐3, or interleukin‐3 plus CD40 ligand. Activated pDC responded to ANP with an increase in cGMP production, indicating that GC‐A expressed on pDC was functional. We investigated whether tonsillar pDC express GC‐A by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. We found that GC‐A+HLA‐DR+cells were present in the T‐cell areas and the perivascular areas. Flow cytometric analysis with tonsillar cells confirmed that lineage−CD123highpDC express GC‐A. These results indicate that the ANP/GC‐A system is involved in immune regulation through pDC in secondary lymphoid organs.
A review of the clinical pharmacology of methamphetamine
Authors: Cruickshank Christopher C. , Dyer Kyle R.
Published: April 2009

Aims To examine the literature regarding clinical pharmacokinetics, direct effects and adverse clinical outcomes associated with methamphetamine use.

Methods Relevant literature was identified through a PubMed search. Additional literature was obtained from relevant books and monographs.

Findings and conclusions The mean elimination half‐life for methamphetamine is approximately 10 hours, with considerable inter‐individual variability in pharmacokinetics. Direct effects at low‐to‐moderate methamphetamine doses (5–30 mg) include arousal, positive mood, cardiac stimulation and acute improvement in cognitive domains such as attention and psychomotor coordination. At higher doses used typically by illicit users (≥50 mg), methamphetamine can produce psychosis. Its hypertensive effect can produce a number of acute and chronic cardiovascular complications. Repeated use may induce neurotoxicity, associated with prolonged psychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment and an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Abrupt cessation of repeated methamphetamine use leads to a withdrawal syndrome consisting of depressed mood, anxiety and sleep disturbance. Acute withdrawal lasts typically for 7–10 days, and residual symptoms associated with neurotoxicity may persist for several months.
Ethnic differences in use value and use patterns of baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) in northern Benin
Authors: De Caluwé E. , De Smedt S. , Assogbadjo A. E. , Samson R. , Sinsin B. , Van Damme P.
Published: April 2009

The aim of this study was to combine qualitative and quantitative tools to evidence ethnic differences in use value and use patterns of baobab for the rural populations of northern Benin. The study was carried out in the municipalities of Boukoumbé and Karimama, focusing on Ottamari and Dendi ethnic groups, respectively, who have good knowledge on baobab uses. Ethnobotanical data were gathered through semi‐structured individual interviews and processed by quantitative (multiple use curve, use value and fidelity level) and qualitative (flow chart) analytical and ethnobotanical methods. Leaves, fruit pulp and seeds of baobab were shown to be well‐known for several food uses and were often the main ingredient in sauces, pastes, porridges and beverages. Medicinal uses were especially well‐known for the bark, which was also used for making ropes. In both communities, a total of 38 different uses were mentioned for baobab products. There were significantly more uses known by the Ottamari than by the Dendi, with use values of 8 and 5, respectively. There were no differences detected in knowledge between sexes and age classes. As a result of its nutritional and high potential market value, preservation of ethnobotanical knowledge on baobab and exchange between communities is critical.
Mutation in the melanocortin 1 receptor is associated with amber colour in the Norwegian Forest Cat
Authors: Peterschmitt M. , Grain F. , Arnaud B. , Deléage G , Lambert V.
Published: April 2009

Amber (previously called X‐Colour) is a yellow recessive coat colour observed in the Norwegian Forest Cat (NFC) population and apparently absent in other cat breeds. Until now, there has never been any scientific evidence of yellow recessive mutation (e) reported in the extension gene in Felidae. We sequenced the complete coding sequence region for the melanocortin 1 receptor in 12 amber, three carriers, two wild‐type NFCs, one wild‐type European Shorthair and two ‘golden’ Siberian cats and identified two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): a non‐synonymous (FM180571: c.250G>A) and a synonymous (FM180571: c.840T>C) mutation. The c.250G>A SNP, further genotyped on 56 cats using PCR‐RFLP, is associated with amber colour and only present in the amber cat lineages. It replaced an aspartic acid with a neutral polar asparagine in the second transmembrane helix (p.Asp84Asn), a position where e mutations have already been described. Three‐dimensional models were built and showed electrostatic potential modification in the mutant receptor. With these results and together with those in the scientific literature, we can conclude that amber colour in NFCs is caused by a single MC1R allele called e, which has never been documented.
Iberian origin of Brazilian local pig breeds based on Cytochrome b (MT‐CYB) sequence
Authors: Souza C. A. , Paiva S. R. , Pereira R. W. , Guimarães S. E. F. , Dutra Jr W. M. , Murata L. S. , Mariante A. S.
Published: April 2009

The aim of this work was to investigate the possible origin of local Brazilian pig breeds through Cytochrome b (MT‐CYB) mitochondrial analyses. The results indicated that the main local pig breeds descended from two different European maternal lineages, both Iberian varieties. The haplotype relationship analysis showed that Monteiro, Nilo, Piau and Tatu breeds share haplotypes only with Iberian varieties, while the Moura breed presented a different maternal lineage. The Moura appears to share a high frequency of haplotypes with the Black Hairy Iberian variety and Hungarian Mangalica breed.
Regulatory cells, cytokine pattern and clinical risk factors for asthma in infants and young children with recurrent wheeze
Authors: Borrego L. M. , Arroz M. J. , Videira P. , Martins C. , Guimarães H. , Nunes G. , Papoila A. L. , Trindade H.
Published: April 2009

Background
Several risk factors for asthma have been identified in infants and young children with recurrent wheeze. However, published literature has reported contradictory findings regarding the underlying immunological mechanisms.

Objectives
This study was designed to assess and compare the immunological status during the first 2 years in steroid‐naïve young children with three episodes of physician‐confirmed wheeze (n=50), with and without clinical risk factors for developing subsequent asthma (i.e. parental asthma or a personal history of eczema and/or two of the following: wheezing without colds, a personal history of allergic rhinitis and peripheral blood eosinophilia >4%), with age‐matched healthy controls (n=30).

Methods
Peripheral blood CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD25high T cells and their cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte‐associated antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4), GITR and Foxp3 expression were analysed by flow cytometry. Cytokine (IFN‐γ, TGF‐β and IL‐10), CTLA‐4 and Foxp3 mRNA expression were evaluated (real‐time PCR) after peripheral blood mononuclear cell stimulation with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) (24 h) and house dust mite (HDM) extracts (7th day).

Results
Flow cytometry results showed a significant reduction in the absolute number of CD4+CD25high and the absolute and percentage numbers of CD4+CD25+CTLA‐4+ in wheezy children compared with healthy controls. Wheezy children at a high risk of developing asthma had a significantly lower absolute number of CD4+CD25+ (P=0.01) and CD4+CD25high (P=0.04), compared with those at a low risk. After PMA stimulation, CTLA‐4 (P=0.03) and Foxp3 (P=0.02) expression was diminished in wheezy children compared with the healthy children. After HDM stimulation, CTLA‐4 (P=0.03) and IFN‐γ (P=0.04) expression was diminished in wheezy children compared with healthy children. High‐risk children had lower expression of IFN‐γ (P=0.03) compared with low‐risk and healthy children and lower expression of CTLA‐4 (P=0.01) compared with healthy children.

Conclusions
Although our findings suggest that some immunological parameters are impaired in children with recurrent wheeze, particularly with a high risk for asthma, further studies are needed in order to assess their potential as surrogate predictor factors for asthma in early life.
Increased levels of angiopoietin‐2 in induced sputum from smoking asthmatic patients
Authors: Kanazawa H. , Asai K. , Tochino Y. , Kyoh S. , Kodama T. , Hirata K.
Published: April 2009

Background
Active cigarette smoking has detrimental effects on asthma morbidity and severity. Angiopoietin‐1 has been shown to protect the microvessels against plasma leakage, whereas angiopoietin‐2 enhances vascular permeability and subsequently induces airway mucosal oedema. Therefore, it is recently thought that angiopoietin‐2 may contribute to the pathophysiology of asthma.

Objective
To determine whether angiopoietin‐2 levels in the airways are associated with clinical profiles in smoking asthmatics.

Methods
We measured angiopoietin‐1 and ‐2 levels in induced sputum in 35 normal controls (18 non‐smokers and 17 smokers) and 49 asthmatics (24 non‐smokers and 25 smokers) before and after inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP: 800 μg/day) therapy for 12 weeks.

Results
Angiopoietin‐1 and ‐2 levels in induced sputum were significantly higher in asthmatics than in normal controls. Moreover, angiopoietin‐2 levels were significantly higher in smoking asthmatics than in non‐smoking asthmatics (P=0.0001). The airway vascular permeability index was also higher in smoking asthmatics than in non‐smoking asthmatics. Moreover, the angiopoietin‐2 level was positively correlated with the airway vascular permeability index (non‐smoking asthmatics: r=0.87, P<0.001, smoking asthmatics: r=0.64, P=0.002). After BDP therapy, angiopoietin‐1 levels were significantly decreased in non‐smoking asthmatics, smoking‐cessation asthmatics, and active‐smoking asthmatics. In contrast, angiopoietin‐2 levels did not differ from before to after BDP therapy in non‐smoking asthmatics and active‐smoking asthmatics. However, its levels were significantly decreased from before to after BDP therapy in smoking‐cessation asthmatics (P=0.002). Although forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) before BDP therapy was comparable in all subgroups, this parameter after BDP therapy was significantly lower in active‐smoking asthmatics than in non‐smoking and smoking‐cessation asthmatics. Moreover, the reduction in angiopoietin‐2 levels after BDP therapy in smoking‐cessation asthmatics was significantly correlated with an mprovement in FEV1/FVC.

Conclusion
Angiopoietin‐2 levels were elevated in the airways of smoking asthmatics, and its levels were associated with impaired airway responses.
Cells with regulatory function of the innate and adaptive immune system in primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Szodoray P , Papp G , Horvath I F , Barath S , Sipka S , Nakken B , Zeher M
Published: April 2009

The aim of the present study was to describe subsets of cells with regulatory properties in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS), and to correlate these cell populations with clinical symptoms. Among the 32 investigated patients, 23 had extraglandular manifestations (EGMs), while nine had only glandular symptoms. Twenty healthy individuals served as controls. The percentages of natural killer (NK), natural killer T cells (NK T), interleukin (IL)-10 producing T regulatory type 1 (Tr1) cells and CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg) cells were determined by flow cytometry and serum cytokine levels of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interferon (IFN)-γ were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Functional tests were carried out to assess the suppressor properties of Treg cells in patients and controls. Peripheral NK, NK T and Tr1 cell percentages were elevated in pSS, while CD4+CD25+ Treg cells showed reduced frequencies in patients compared to controls. In pSS, elevated percentages of NK T, Tr1 and CD4+CD25+ Treg cells were observed in patients with EGMs, when compared to patients with sicca symptoms only. CD4+CD25+ Treg cell percentages showed a negative correlation with sialometry values. The in vitro functional assay demonstrated lower suppression activity of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells in patients compared to controls. Serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels were elevated, while IL-10 was decreased in patients compared to controls. Negative correlation was found between IL-10 levels and the percentages of Tr1 cells. Changes in the investigated subsets of regulatory cells in pSS may contribute to the development and progression of the disease.
Managing invasive crayfish: use of X‐ray sterilisation of males
Authors: AQUILONI LAURA , BECCIOLINI ALDO , BERTI ROBERTO , PORCIANI SAURO , TRUNFIO CARMEN , GHERARDI FRANCESCA
Published: April 2009

1. In the last decade, many attempts have been made to contain the spread of the North American crayfish Procambarus clarkii, an invader of many European water bodies, but none has been successful.

2. This study investigates the effects that ionising irradiation has on the reproduction of P. clarkii males by analysing the behaviour of the treated individuals, their reproductive output, the vitality and survival of their offspring and the damages induced to their gonads.

3. We found that a dose of 20 Gy X‐rays did not compromise either the survival or the mating ability of males, but reduced the size of their testes and significantly altered spermatogenesis. The number of aborted eggs was larger in clutches sired by treated males, with a consequent reduction (by 43%) in the number of offspring.

4. These results foster hopes in our efforts to control invasive crayfish, showing the potential effectiveness of ionising irradiation to reduce male fertility in the perspective of adopting the Sterile Male Release Technique to control P. clarkii populations.
Trans‐enamel and trans‐dentinal cytotoxic effects of a 35% H2O2 bleaching gel on cultured odontoblast cell lines after consecutive applications
Authors: Trindade F. Z. , Ribeiro A. P. D. , Sacono N. T. , Oliveira C. F. , Lessa F. C. R. , Hebling J. , Costa C. A. S.
Published: April 2009

Aim  To evaluate the trans‐enamel and trans‐dentinal cytotoxic effects of a 35% H2O2 bleaching gel on an odontoblast‐like cell lines (MDPC‐23) after consecutive applications.

Methodology  Fifteen enamel/dentine discs were obtained from bovine central incisor teeth and placed individually in artificial pulp chambers. Three groups (n = 5 discs) were formed according to the following enamel treatments: G1: 35% H2O2 bleaching gel (15 min); G2: 35% H2O2 bleaching gel (15 min) + halogen light (20 s); G3: control (no treatment). After repeating the treatments three consecutive times, the extracts (culture medium + gel components that had diffused through enamel/dentine discs) in contact with the dentine were collected and applied to previously cultured MDPC‐23 cells (50 000 cells cm−2) for 24 h. Cell metabolism was evaluated by the MTT assay and data were analysed statistically (α = 5%; Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U‐test). Cell morphology was analysed by scanning electron microscopy.

Results  Cell metabolism decreased by 92.03% and 82.47% in G1 and G2 respectively. G1 and G2 differed significantly (P < 0.05) from G3. Regardless of halogen light activation, the application of the bleaching gel on the cultured odontoblast‐like cells caused significantly more severe cytotoxic effects than those observed in the nontreated control group. In addition, significant morphological cell alterations were observed in G1 and G2.

Conclusion  After three consecutive applications of a 35% H2O2 bleaching agent, the diffusion of the gel components through enamel and dentine caused severe toxic effects to cultured pulp cells.
In vitro bioaccessibility of iron and zinc in fortified fruit beverages
Authors: Cilla Antonio , García‐Nebot María José , Perales Sara , Lagarda María Jesús , Barberá Reyes , Farré Rosaura
Published: April 2009

Iron and zinc bioaccessibility was estimated in the in vitro gastrointestinal digests of six different fortified fruit beverages (Fb) containing iron and/or zinc and/or skimmed milk (M). Solubility values can be used to establish trends in relative bioavailability of iron and zinc, as the first stage towards mineral bioavailability comprises solubility in the intestinal tract. FbFe, FbFeM and FbFeZnM samples showed iron bioaccessibility above 88%, differing (P < 0.05) from those of FbFeZn (53%). In turn, FbZn, FbFeZn and FbZnM samples presented higher zinc bioaccessibility (above 68%), differing (P < 0.05) from those of FbFeZnM (48%). The presence of milk‐derived caseinophosphopeptides (CPPs) formed during gastrointestinal digestion in dairy samples does not increase iron or zinc bioaccessibility in FbFeM or FbZnM vs. FbFe or FbZn, but it is hypothesised that the negative interacting effect of zinc upon iron bioaccessibility when co‐supplemented in these fruit beverages is overcome in the presence of CPPs, which favour iron solubility more than in the case of zinc.
Nutritional composition, phenolic compounds, nitrate content in eatable vegetables obtained by conventional and certified organic grown culture subject to thermal treatment
Authors: Lima Giuseppina Pace Pereira , Lopes Tássia do Vale Cardoso , Rossetto Maria Rosecler Miranda , Vianello Fabio
Published: April 2009

The aim of this work was to analyse some nutritional characteristics in eatable vegetables obtained by conventional and organic grown culture, focusing on vegetable parts that are generally rejected by consumers. Samples of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa (syn. B. campestris) spp. pekinensis)) and maize (Zea mays L.) had been analysed under raw conditions and after thermal treatment in order to test modifications in protein, lipids, carbohydrate, phenol, nitrate content and dry weight. According to our results, thermal treatment modified some characteristics. Even if for most parameters significant differences between foods obtained by the two cultivation procedures had not been observed, in organic samples a higher concentration of nitrate was found. Furthermore, domestic processing, such as cooking in boiling water, seems to have a dramatic effect on phenolic content on both kinds of food, and, as a consequence, on antioxidant activity.
The use of spinning disc reactor for processing ice cream base – effect of ageing in making model ice cream
Authors: Akhtar Mahmood , Blakemore Ian , Clayton Graham , Knapper Sarah
Published: April 2009

Spinning disc reactor (SDR) technology was tested to produce an ice cream base, which was subsequently used to make model ice cream. The ice cream base containing butterfat, lecithin, xanthan gum, sugar, skimmed milk and double cream was passed over the SDR disc spinning at 2900 rpm, heated at 80 °C and at a flow rate 6 mL s−1. The physical properties of the SDR‐processed ice cream base such as particle size and viscosity measurments, and of model ice cream including overrun, meltdown rate and sensory perception were investigated. The SDR‐processed ice cream base exhibits narrow particle‐size distribution (average particle d32 = 1.65 μm, d43 = 2.98 μm) and the viscosity was found to be similar at zero and 18 h ageing, whilst the model ice cream requires zero‐hour ageing and has a high overrun value (∼85%) and slow meltdown rate as compared with a commercial sample. The results reveal that the SDR is capable of producing a highly stable ice cream base that requires significantly less ageing than the 18 h typically associated with the traditional process of making ice cream. The SDR process provides intense mixing of ingredients which facilitates the hydration of milk proteins and stabilisers.
The effects of washing treatment on antioxidant retention in ready‐to‐use iceberg lettuce
Authors: Kenny Olive , O’Beirne David
Published: April 2009

The influence of washing treatment on the retention of key antioxidants in minimally processed iceberg lettuce was examined. Shredded iceberg lettuce was subjected to one of three washing treatments: a domestic wash (tap‐rinsed), immersion in distilled water (water‐dipped) or immersion in chlorinated water (chlorine‐dipped). Lettuce was subsequently packed in oriented polypropylene bags and flushed with 100% nitrogen and stored at 4 °C. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid and dehydroascorbic acid), total phenols, total antioxidants, individual phenols, individual carotenoids, colour measurements and pH were quantified on production day and throughout the storage period (8 days). Different groups of antioxidants were found to differ in their response to washing treatments. No significant (P > 0.05) effects of washing treatment were observed on total antioxidant activity, total phenolics and on the levels of individual phenolics (chicoric acid, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid). Individual carotenoids were initially affected by washing treatment, with higher levels of lutein and beta‐carotene retained with domestic washed lettuce. Ascorbic acid was the antioxidant most affected by washing treatments with domestic washing resulting in significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher retention of ascorbic acid throughout the storage period compared with the chlorine‐dipped lettuce.
Extraction and fractionation of lipolytic enzyme from viscera of Monterey sardine (Sardinops sagax caerulea)
Authors: Noriega‐Rodríguez Juan A. , Gámez‐Meza Nohemí , Alanis‐Villa Argentina , Medina‐Juárez Luis A. , Tejeda‐Mansir Armando , Angulo‐Guerrero Ofelia , García Hugo S.
Published: April 2009

In this study, lipolytic activity of a semi‐purified lipolytic enzyme (SLE) from the viscera of sardine (Sardinops sagax caerulea) was screened on the lipolysis of olive, Menhaden and sardine oil. A lipolytic enzyme was partially purified from the crude extract of sardine viscera by fractional precipitation followed by ultrafiltration (30 kDa). The main tissues found in sardine viscera were pyloric caeca (19.0% w/w), digestive tract (13.0% w/w), liver (4.8% w/w) and pancreas (1.5% w/w). Results show that pancreas had the highest lipolytic activity. There were no significant differences in lipolytic activity between pyloric caeca, intestine and liver (P < 0.05). Specific activity of the SLE increased 47.0‐fold after extraction and fractionation, with a yield of 0.34% calculated for the whole viscera weight. Lipolytic activity of SLE from sardine viscera increased threefold when sardine oil was used as substrate. The results of this study confirm the potential importance of lipases from marine sources.
Effect of moisture content, storage temperature and storage period on colour, ascorbic acid, lycopene and total flavonoids of dried tomato halves
Authors: Hossain Md. Ayub , Gottschalk Klaus
Published: April 2009

Dried tomato halves with three storage moisture contents [18%, 24% and 30%, wet basis (wb)], packed in glass jar, plastic container and polyethylene bag were stored in room and cool‐chamber environments for 5 months. During storage period average room and cool‐chamber temperatures were 20 ± 4 and 5 ± 1 °C respectively. Changes of colour, ascorbic acid, lycopene, total flavonoids and moisture contents were monitored 1‐month interval. Significantly higher losses of colour, ascorbic acid, lycopene and total flavonoids were found for room environment than those of cool chamber. A set of regression equations had been developed for colour, ascorbic acid, lycopene and total flavonoids as a function of storage time. No visible microorganisms were detected in the samples during the storage period. Dried tomato with ≤24% (wb) moisture content may be recommended to store in cool chamber (5 °C) and ≤18% (wb) to store in room environment (20 °C) both to be packed in glass jar.
Evidence that dingoes limit abundance of a mesopredator in eastern Australian forests
Authors: Johnson Chris N. , VanDerWal Jeremy
Published: April 2009

Aggressive behaviour of top predators may have strong effects on the distribution and abundance of mesopredator species. Such interactions between predator species can reduce the intensity of predation on vulnerable prey. Suppression of mesopredators by top predators is a potentially important process that could protect small prey species from unsustainable predation.

There is some evidence that in Australia, the dingo Canis lupus suppresses populations of the red fox Vulpes vulpes. This interaction could be significant to biodiversity conservation because while dingoes have been in Australia for several thousand years and coexist with a wide range of small mammals, the fox is a recent arrival which has caused declines and extinctions, and continues to threaten many prey species.

However the strength of the effect of dingoes on foxes is unclear, and some published data have been interpreted as demonstrating no relationship between abundance of the two species. These data come from forested habitats in eastern Australia, and may suggest that negative relationships of dingoes and foxes do not occur in complex habitats.

We re‐analyse published data on fox vs. wild dog (i.e. dingoes plus, potentially, feral dogs and hybrids) abundance in eastern forests. These data reveal a triangular relationship of fox to wild dog density: when wild dogs are abundant, foxes are consistently rare, while when wild dogs are rare, foxes may be abundant but are not always so. This suggests that the abundance of wild dogs sets an upper limit on the abundance of foxes, but does not fully determine fox abundance.

Standard regression and correlation methods are not appropriate for analysing such triangular relationships. We apply two statistical methods that can be used to characterize the edges of data distributions, and use these to demonstrate a negative relationship of maximum fox abundance to the abundance of wild dogs.

Synthesis and applications. Our analysis adds to evidence that dingoes may have negative effects on red foxes in a wide range of habitats, and therefore, that dingoes may be significant to conservation of mammal biodiversity in Australia. It also illustrates problems and solutions in the statistical analysis of abundance of one species as a function of the abundance of another species with which it has a strong interaction.