bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Helicobacter pylori infection on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression and cell proliferation of gastric epithelial mucosa: correlation to macroscopic and microscopic diagnosis
Authors: Ruzsovics Agnes , Unger Zsuzsa , Molnar Bela , Pronai Laszlo , Tulassay Zsolt
Published: December 2004

Our aim was to compare the expression of EGFR and proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in different histological and endoscopic diagnostic groups, in cases of Helicobacter pylori infection, in vivo. Paraffin embedded human gastric biopsy samples (86) were analysed by EGFR and PCNA immunohistochemistry and classified both on the basis of histology and endoscopic findings. In normal epithelia (NE), a positive correlation was found between PCNA and EGFR and in H. pylori‐negative gastritis with and without intestinal metaplasia (P < 0.01). On the other hand, a negative correlation was detected between the two immunohistochemical findings in H. pylori‐associated gastritis with intestinal metaplasia (HPGIM) and in the atrophic gastritis (AG) group. In HPGIM the percentage of EGFR‐positive cells was significantly lower (32.4 ± 30.4) when compared to either the NE (50.3 ± 23.7) or H. pylori‐negative gastritis with intestinal metaplasia (HNGIM) (48.3 ± 23.7). In AG, EGFR was significantly lower when compared to the NE (P < 0.05). Based on the endoscopic findings, a significant decrease of EGFR expression was found in gastric ulcer cases as compared to NE, gastritis or erosion cases (P < 0.01). PCNA showed no significant alterations between the NE and gastritis, AG groups. The presence of H. pylori has an inverse effect on PCNA and EGFR expression in HPGIM.
Serum and tissue level of insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) and IGF‐I binding proteins as an index of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer
Authors: Karna Ewa , Surazynski Arkadiusz , Orłowski Kazimierz , łaszkiewicz Joanna , Puchalski Zbigniew , Nawrat Piotr , Pałka Jerzy
Published: December 2004

Previously we have found deregulation of collagen metabolism in human pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer tissues. Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) is known to stimulate collagen biosynthesis through interaction with IGF‐I receptor. IGF‐I binding proteins (BPs) regulate the activity of IGF‐I. We investigated whether serum and tissue IGF‐I and IGF‐BPs as well as tissue IGF‐I receptor expression may reflect disturbances of collagen metabolism in patients with pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. In pancreatitis tissue, a significant increase in IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 content was accompanied by a distinct increase in IGF‐I receptor expression, compared to control pancreas tissue. In contrast, serum from patients with pancreatitis did not show significant increases in IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 levels, however, significant increases in IGFBP‐1 level (2.5 fold). Moreover, a distinct decrease in radioactive IGF‐binding to the BPs, compared to control serum, was found. Pancreatic cancer tissue and serum of patients with pancreatic cancer showed significant increases in IGF‐I, IGFBP‐3 and IGFBP‐1 content, accompanied by dramatic increases in IGF‐I tissue receptor expression, compared to controls. In serum of patients with pancreatic cancer distinct increases in radioactive IGF‐binding to 46 kDa BP, compared to control serum, were observed. The data suggest that disturbances in tissue collagen metabolism during pancreatic diseases may result from deregulation of IGF‐I homeostasis and that elevated serum levels of IGF‐I, IGFBP‐3 and IGFBP‐1 may serve as markers of pancreatic cancer.
An in vitro examination of an extracellular matrix scaffold for use in wound healing
Authors: Solomon Denis E.
Published: December 2004

Summary. This paper describes evidence that an extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) assembled on gelatin coated plates overlaid by a mixed matrix secreted by human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMECs) and human dermal fibroblasts provides a viable acellular scaffold for use in wound healing. Trypsinized epidermal keratinocytes or colonies from Dispase‐digested fresh and cadaver skin tissue adhered and proliferated on either HUVECs ECM/gelatin or mixed matrix overlaid on HUVECs ECM/gelatin. An epithelial–mesenchymal interaction, previously thought to be tissue‐specific, was exposed as well as concomitant integrin versatility. Furthermore, heterologous HDMECs and dermal fibroblasts attached and proliferated on the mixed matrix as well as HUVECs ECM. The conditioned medium from HUVECs (HUVECs CM) was found to neutralize the lingering after effects of Dispase, and could be used for the tissue culture of epidermal keratinocytes, HDMECs and dermal fibroblasts, which share related extracellular secretions. Taken together, these results indicate that cultured epithelial autografts can be redesigned to include both epithelial and dermal elements, and advances the acellular ‘sandwich’ ECM scaffold as a possible structural replacement for the lamina densa and lamina lucida, damaged or completely missing in some wounds and burns.
Delivery of endostatin in experimental cancer therapy
Authors: R. Sorensen Dag , Read Tracy‐Ann
Published: December 2004

Endostatin, the 20 kDa C‐terminal fragment of collagen XVIII, has been shown to be an effective inhibitor of tumour angiogenesis and growth in different experimental systems and is currently in Phase II/III clinical trials. One challenging aspect of anti‐angiogenic treatment is the mode of delivery of the active compound. In this paper we review some of the basic knowledge of endostatin and look specifically into the different possible ways in which endostatin may be administered.
Histopathological findings in rabbits after experimental acute exposure to the Loxosceles intermedia (brown spider) venom
Authors: Ospedal Katia Zoghbi , Appel Marcia Helena , Neto José Fillus , Mangili Oldemir Carlos , Veiga Silvio Sanches , Gremski Waldemiro
Published: December 2004

Loxoscelism, the term used to describe envenomation with brown spiders, is characterized by a dermonecrotic lesion at the bite site. In the present investigation we submitted albino rabbits to an acute experimental envenomation protocol using Loxosceles intermedia (brown spider) venom, with in order to determine the pathogenesic features of the lesion induced by this spider, which is the cause of several accidents throughout the world. Rabbits received intradermal injections of the venom and were monitored over the first 4 h, and then at 12 h and 1, 2 and 5 days after envenomation. Histological specimens from 3 rabbits per time point were collected from euthanized animals and processed for histological examination by light microscopy. Major findings observed during the first 4 h were oedema, haemorrhage, degeneration of blood vessel walls, plasma exudation, thrombosis, neutrophil accumulation in and around blood vessels with an intensive diapedesis, a diffuse collection of inflammatory cells (polymorphonuclear leucocytes) in the dermis, and subcutaneous muscular oedema. Over the following hours and up to 5 days after envenomation the changes progressed to massive neutrophil infiltration (with no other leucocytes) into the dermis and even into subcutaneous muscle tissue, destruction of blood vessels, thrombosis, haemorrhage, myonecrosis, and coagulative necrosis on the 5th day.
Progression of alachlor‐induced olfactory mucosal tumours
Authors: Genter Mary Beth , Burman Dawn M. , Bolon Brad
Published: December 2004

Alachlor is an herbicide used primarily in the production of corn (maize), peanuts, and soybeans and is associated with cancer of the nasal cavity, thyroid, and stomach in rats. Previous work from our laboratory demonstrated that the nasal cavity tumours originate from the olfactory mucosa, and that neoplasms were present following 6 months of exposure (126 mg/kg/day in the diet). The studies presented herein were conducted to determine more precisely the earliest time point at which alachlor‐induced tumours were present, and to describe the histological changes that occur en route to tumour formation. We determined that dramatic histological changes, including respiratory metaplasia of the olfactory mucosa, were present following 3 months of exposure, and the earliest alachlor‐induced olfactory mucosal tumours were detected following 5 months of treatment. Because alachlor is positive in short‐term mutagenicity assays with olfactory mucosal activation, and because of the relatively short time‐to‐tumour formation observed with alachlor, we also conducted a ‘stop’ study in which rats were treated with alachlor for 1 month and then held without further treatment for an additional 5 months. This study demonstrated that abbreviated alachlor exposure did not result in subsequent tumour formation within the 6‐month observation period.
CpG oligodeoxynucleotides accelerate reovirus type 2‐triggered insulitis in DBA/1 suckling mice
Authors: Hayashi T. , Yoshinaka K. , Hasegawa K. , Maeda K. , Onodera T.
Published: December 2004

We reported previously that reovirus type‐2 (Reo‐2) triggers T‐helper (Th) 1‐mediated autoimmune insulitis resulting in temporal impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) approximately 10 days post infection (d.p.i) in suckling DBA/1 mice. We hypothesized that CpG motifs in bacteria may enhance virus‐induced insulitis through its content of unmethylated CpG motifs. In the infected mice, the intraperitoneal treatment of synthetic 20‐base oligodeoxynucleotides with CpG motifs (CpG ODN) caused increase in cumulative incidence of insulitis with IGT, increased serum interferon (IFN)‐γ concentration, and high frequency of autoantibody against pancreatic islet cells, compared to the infected mice without CpG ODN at 17 d.p.i. Also CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocytes infiltrated in and/or around pancreatic islets in the CpG ODN‐treated mice. This evidence suggests that CpG ODN may contribute to accelerate Reo‐2‐induced autoimmune reaction against pancreatic islet cells via additional effects of Th1 cytokines especially IFN‐γ.
Role of cell adhesion molecules in leukocyte recruitment in the liver and gut
Authors: Ala A. , Dhillon A.P. , Hodgson H.J.
Published: December 2004

This article reviews the evidence that adhesion molecules are critical in leukocyte recirculation and pathogenesis of diseases affecting the closely related tissues of the liver and gut, which offer novel opportunities for treatment.
The histological features of microwave coagulation therapy: an assessment of a new applicator design
Authors: Swift Benjamin , Strickland Andrew , West Kevin , Clegg Peter , Cronin Nigel , Lloyd David
Published: December 2004

Microwave ablation of tumours within the liver may become an adjunct or alternative to resection in patients with primary or secondary cancers. This technique combines the benefits of a large, localized coagulative effect with a single insertion of the applicator, in a significantly shorter time than comparable treatments. A new range of microwave applicators were developed and tested in animal models and both ex‐vivo and in‐vivo specimens of human liver at resection.

At laparotomy, the applicator tip was inserted into normal liver parenchyma and tumours, with each specimen subjected to irradiation for 180 s or more and at varying power outputs.

On sectioning an area of spherical blanching was observed around the applicator cavity. Microscopically a zone of coagulative necrosis was seen adjacent to the site of probe insertion. Damage to blood vessels and bile ducts occurred distal to the probe cavity suggesting the passage of heated fluid, a finding that was diminished by temporary occlusion of the hepatic vasculature (a Pringle manoeuvre). Ultra‐structural damage was confirmed within the burn zone and selected liver enzymes were shown to be functioning beyond this region.

We suggest this indicates the surrounding liver parenchyma is functioning normally and therefore the volume of microwave‐induced damage is controllable. We are confident that the new applicator design will allow the effective treatment of larger tumours in a safe and controlled manner with a single application of energy.
Effectiveness of caffeic acid as an anti‐oxidant for cod liver oil
Authors: Leonardis Antonella De , Macciola Vincenzo
Published: December 2004

Summary The effectiveness of caffeic acid and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) as anti‐oxidants for cod liver oil was investigated. The phenol were added to oil in doses of 300, 600 and 800 mg kg−1 and the samples were oxidized at 100 °C in a rancimat apparatus. Caffeic acid not only improved oil stability, but also developed a further protective action which increased hydrolytic stability, inhibited diene conjugation and reduced losses of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)‐n3.

Caffeic acid showed a higher anti‐oxidant effect than BHA.
Modelling the effect of water recycling on the quality of potato products
Authors: Den Aantrekker Esther D. , Van Der Padt Albert , Boom Remko M.
Published: December 2004

Purifying and recycling process water is a way to minimize the use of potable water and the production of wastewater in the food industry. Water recycling should, however, never affect the quality of the final products. Therefore, a model has been developed to investigate the possibilities of water recycling in a potato factory. One problem that could arise in a water recycling system is the accumulation of dissolved components, such as salts, in the process water loop, which would affect the product quality. Therefore, the quality of the potato products can be related to the amount of chloride ions present in the final product. The model described in this article is based on mass balances and transient diffusion theory is used to calculate the amount of chloride ions present in the process water and in the final product. The calculations show that chloride ions do accumulate in the water and in the potatoes during recycling, because of the addition of salts to the system. The approach used proved to be useful to obtain quantitative information on the process and to find critical points in the system.
Viscoelastic properties of restructured sweetpotato puree
Authors: Fasina Oladiran O. , Walter William M. , Fleming Henry P. , Simunovic Nada
Published: December 2004

The viscoelastic properties of sweetpotato (SP) puree restructured with alginate were determined and compared with those of non‐restructured SP puree. Results from oscillatory shear experiments showed that both purees behaved like a gel with the storage modulus (G′) predominant over the loss modulus (G′′). The addition of a calcium/alginate complex increased the firmness of SP puree. Gel strength of both restructured and non‐restructured puree was highest at room temperature (25 °C).
Comparison of drying kinetics and texture effects of two calcium pretreatments before microwave‐assisted dehydration of apple and potato
Authors: Ahrné Lília , Prothon Frédéric , Funebo Tomas
Published: December 2004

The effects on drying rate and texture of treating two plant tissues with calcium, before drying in air with microwave assistance, were studied in this work. The two tissues, potato and apple cubes, which have different structures and composition, were pretreated by immersion in CaCl2 solutions at 20 or at 70 °C before microwave‐assisted air dehydration at 50, 60 and 70 °C. The pretreatments with calcium influenced the strength of the plant tissue cell wall, producing products of varying hardness after rehydration. The effect of the two calcium pretreatments was quite different for apples and potatoes. For apples, calcium pretreatment at 20 °C increased the hardness of rehydrated apples compared with untreated apples, but calcium pretreatment at 70 °C had no effect on texture. For potatoes, both calcium pretreatments at 20 and at 70 °C significantly increased the hardness of rehydrated potatoes. The water diffusivity during drying varied mainly because of the type of plant tissue, with secondary effects caused by the drying temperature and the type of calcium pretreatment.
Palynological, physico‐chemical and colour characterization of Moroccan honeys: III. Other unifloral honey types
Authors: Terrab Anass , Díez Maria J. , Heredia Francisco J.
Published: December 2004

In this study a total of twenty Moroccan honey samples were analysed and botanically characterized: these included sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), crucifer (Diplotaxis sp.), carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.), loeflingia (Loeflingia sp.), heather (Erica sp.), mint (Mentha sp.) and wood sage (Teucrium scorodonia L.). Unifloral honeys were considered as such whenever the dominant pollen was found at over 45% of total pollen, except for sunflower, mint and wood sage types of honey where a finding above 20% of Helianthus annuus, Mentha sp. and Teucrium scorodonia pollen, respectively, was enough to typify them. The samples have been analysed to determine: moisture, pH, acidity (free, lactonic and total), hydroxymethylfurfural, diastase activity, proline, electrical conductivity, ash and mineral content, sugar composition, and colour variables (L*, a*, b*, C*ab, hab).
The fatty acids as penetration enhancers of amino acids by ion pairing
Authors: Arct J. , Chelkowska M. , Kasiura K. , Pietrzykowski P.
Published: December 2004

Synopsis

The influence of palmitic acid on n‐octanol/water partition coefficient (log P) of selected amino acids, alanine, glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, seine, valine, threonine and lysine, was measured at a wide range of pH. A parabolic shape curve was obtained in every case (pH vs. Δlog P), with maximum depending on the amino acid. In each case in the presence of palmitic acid, the apparent partition coefficient increased. To check the possible mechanism of extraction of amino acids into n‐octanol phase in the presence of palmitate additionally, the influence of an amount of counter ion on partition coefficient of lysine was investigated. The results suggest that the enhanced partitioning of lysine results from the ion pair formation with palmitate. The ion pair stratum corneum–lipid membrane transport of the amino acids was investigated as well, using palmitate as a counter ion. The apparent permeability coefficients were enhanced significantly by palmitic acid at pH 7.4. As many substances (e.g. organic solvents, unsaturated fatty acids, etc.) are penetration enhancers which change the structure of intercellular lipid, the influence of palmitic acid on membrane was investigated. After pretreatment of membrane with palmitic acid, no changes in permeation of alanine were observed. Investigations suggest the enhanced permeation of amino acids via ion pairing. The method for prediction of pH in which the possibility of ion pairing is the highest was developed as well.
Role of topical and nutritional supplement to modify the oxidative stress*
Authors: Morganti P. , Bruno C. , Guarneri F. , Cardillo A. , Del Ciotto P. , Valenzano F.
Published: December 2004

Synopsis

Background: Evidence suggests that signs of skin ageing such as wrinkling, ragging and actinic lentigines, may be connected to cumulative oxidative damage incurred throughout our lifetimes. To counteract this oxidative injury, skin is equipped with a network on enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidant systems, such as tocopherols, ascorbate polyphenols. All these compounds administered topically by cosmetics or by oral route by diet supplements, have been shown to exert an antioxidant/protective effect in skin or skin cells. Objective: The object of this study was to evaluate both in vitro and in vivo the activity performed by different topical antioxidants and nutritional supplements. Methods: A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled study was carried out for 8 weeks on 30 dry‐skinned elderly volunteers, women aged between 48 and 59 years, with moderate xerosis and photoageing. Surface skin lipids, skin hydration and MDA determination were topically detected by 3C System. ROS was evaluated on the blood serum and on IL‐3 stimulated human leukocytes by ROS Meter System at 505 nm. All the subjects applied twice a day for 2 months a nanocolloidal gel and/or take a diet supplement by oral route at the quantity of two capsules per day. All the formulations used were antioxidant‐enriched (ascorbic acid, tocopherol, alpha‐lipoic acid, melatonin, emblica). Results: Oxidative stress and consequently lipids peroxidation decreased from 30 to 40% (P < 0.005) in blood serum of all the subjects treated with antioxidant compounds topically and by oral route. Both free radicals recovered in blood serum and on skin (in vivo) and ROS induced by irradiation of leucocytes with UVB light (in vitro), appear sensibly lower in subjects antioxidant‐treated. Conclusions: From the obtained data, it seems possible to conclude that all the compounds used play interesting role as topical and systemic photoprotectants, thanks to their interesting antioxidant property. Moreover, the antioxidant treatment seems to be a promising therapeutic approach also in reducing the oxidative stress of people affected by photoaging.
Tamanu (Calophyllum inophyllum) – the African, Asian, Polynesian and Pacific Panacea
Authors: Dweck A. C. , Meadows T.
Published: December 2004

Synopsis

Tamanu or Calophyllum inophyllum has been used traditionally as a local medicine for many different purposes. The oil has been proven to be vulnerary and cicatrising in its effects. The chemicals responsible for this action are calophyllolide and inophyllum in addition to other complex polyphenols.
La microscopie confocale: interet pour l'analyse du relief cutané. Un outil d'évaluation dermo‐cosmétique*
Authors: Rhouzlane A. , Makki S. , Millet J. , Humbert Ph.
Published: December 2004

Synopsis

Nowadays, the determination of human skin microtopography is usually carried out by methods based on mechanical techniques (profilometry and surfometry), or founded on optical conception (shadowing method and profilometry). Negative skin replicas made of a silicone rubber material (Silflo®) or positive casts performed from an epoxy resin (Araldite®), are used to assess the skin microstructure. Skin surface microtopography is quantified by measuring furrows depths and spaces between them. An original application using confocal scanning laser microscope (CLSM) is described in this paper. The CLSM gives simultaneously images of the skin surface associated with quantitative measurements of the microtopography. With this apparatus, it is easy to achieve perfect skin replica images with assessment of its microstructure, before and after applications of topical medicines or cosmetic products to evaluate the skin surface restoration. It is worth to mention that it is indispensable to analyse the same skin surface (same plateaux and same furrows). For this reason, it is necessary to localize exactly and to replicate the same skin surface area (4 mm2) before and after the cosmetic use, whatever the extended period of the topical application.
Common cosmetic hydrophilic ingredients as penetration modifiers of flavonoids
Authors: Arct J. , Oborska A. , Mojski M. , Binkowska A. , Świdzikowska B.
Published: December 2004

Synopsis

Nowadays, flavonoids are present in many cosmetic formulations, mainly in the form of plant extracts. The main reason of still increasing popularity of these substances is their beneficial biochemical activity. The main factor affecting activity of flavonoids in the skin is their skin penetration ability. The studies have evidenced that flavonoids from grape leaf extract as well as flavonoids like quercetin, rutin and catechin can migrate through the model lipophilic membrane from aqueous solution. The influence of common hydrophilic cosmetic additives on the permeation profile of flavonoids has been checked. The partition coefficients of examined flavonoids in the octanol–water extraction system were determined. Correlations between permeation coefficients and log P of particular flavonoids were plotted. To determine the mechanism of influence of hydrophilic substances on the permeation profile of flavonoids, the solubility of these compounds was investigated. Studies suggest that the presence of hydrophilic additives causes the increase in the flavonoid solubility that decreases the activity of flavonoids in the vehicle. In such a situation, the driving force for the penetration is reduced and the decrease of permeation coefficient can be observed.
Reduced‐fat Cheddar cheese from a mixture of cream and liquid milk protein concentrate
Authors: Rehman Shakeel‐Ur‐ , Farkye Nana Y , Drake Maryanne
Published: December 2004

Reduced‐fat Cheddar cheese (RFC) was manufactured from standardized milk (casein/fat, C/F ˜ 1.8), obtained by (1) mixing whole milk (WM) and skim milk (SM) (control) or (2) mixing liquid milk protein concentrate (LMPC) and 35% fat cream (experimental). The percentage yield, total solid (TS) and fat recoveries in the experimental RFC were 22.0, 63.0 and 89.5 compared to 9.0, 50.7 and 87.0 in the control RFC, respectively. The average % moisture, fat, protein, salt and lactose were 40.7, 15.3, 32.8, 1.4 and 0.07%, respectively, in the experimental cheese and 39.3, 15.4, 33.0, 1.3 and 0.10%, respectively, in the control cheese. No growth of nonstarter lactic acid bacteria (NSLAB) was detected in the control or the experimental cheeses up to 3 months of ripening. After 6 months of ripening, the experimental cheese had 107 cfu NSLAB/g compared to 106 cfu/g in the control. The control cheese had higher levels of water‐soluble nitrogen (WSN) and total free amino acids after 6 months of ripening than the experimental cheese. Sensory analysis showed that the experimental cheeses had lower intensities of milk fat and fruity flavours and decreased bitterness but higher intensities of sulphur and brothy flavours than in the control cheese. The experimental cheeses were less mature compared to the control after 270 days of ripening. It can be concluded from the results of this study that LMPC can be used in the manufacture of RFC to improve yield, and fat and TS recovery. However, proteolysis in cheese made with LMPC and cream is slower than that made with WM and SM.
Climate change levy and its application within the dairy industry
Authors: Plemper George S , Stace Gareth
Published: December 2004

The government's climate change levy on energy use in the nondomestic sector was announced in the March 1999 Budget and came into effect on 1 April 2001. During 1990 it is estimated that 603 million tonnes of carbon dioxide contributed to 79% of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions.

 Nationally, energy consumption within the dairy industry contributes to only 0.2% of the UK's annual emissions of carbon dioxide and climate change levy agreements throughout the industry are unlikely to have a major impact on the government's Climate Change Programme.

 Paradoxically, the arrangements that dairies are required to put into place as part of their Climate Change Agreements are of paramount importance for the achievement of operational and process efficiency within the dairy sector.
Evaluation of Serpa cheese proteolysis by nitrogen content and capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Roseiro Luisa Bivar , Garcia‐Risco Mónica , Barbosa Manuela , Ames Jennifer M , Wilbey R Andrew
Published: December 2004

Proteolysis of Serpa cheese produced traditionally (B) and semi‐industrially (C) was evaluated for the first time by determination of nitrogen content and capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). A citrate dispersion of cheese was fractionated to determine the nitrogen in pH 4.4, trichloroacetic and phosphotungstic acid soluble fractions (pH 4.4‐SN, TCA‐SN and PTA‐SN, respectively). The pH 4.4‐SN was significantly higher for B (P < 0.001), while TCA‐SN was significantly higher for C (P < 0.001). PTA‐SN was also higher for C but at 60 days ripening no significant difference was found between B and C. Degradation of αs1‐ and β‐caseins evaluated by CZE was in good agreement with the maturation index (pH 4.4‐SN/TN).
Cheesemaking with vegetable coagulants—the use of Cynara L. for the production of ovine milk cheeses
Authors: Roseiro Luisa Bivar , Barbosa Manuela , Ames Jennifer M , Wilbey R Andrew
Published: December 2004

This paper reviews the use of plant extracts as vegetable coagulants for cheesemaking. It covers the plants used as sources of coagulants, with a historical overview and particular emphasis on Cynara species. The genus Cynara L., its composition, milk clotting and proteolytic enzymes (cardosins) and their specificity towards peptide linkages are also described. Cheeses produced in the Iberian Peninsula using Cynara L. as coagulant are documented. Cynara L. is still the most used vegetable coagulant in cheesemaking, and also the most investigated. However, much work remains to be done to understand its action during cheese maturation and further characterization.
Identification and first characterization of lactic acid bacteria isolated from the artisanal ovine cheese Pecorino del Poro
Authors: Caridi Andrea
Published: December 2004

A total of 225 lactic acid bacteria, isolated from the artisanal raw ovine milk cheese Pecorino del Poro, were identified and given an initial characterization; the best 18 strains were tested for their antagonistic activity against autochthonous Escherichia coli. An intense antagonistic activity against E. coli growth, induced by strains of Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei or L. curvatus, was observed; the E. coli inhibition can be ascribed to the production of bacteriocin‐like compounds. The lactobacilli seem able to improve the hygienic quality of other artisanal raw milk cheeses.
Microbiological study of Manura, a hard cheese made from raw ovine milk in the Greek island Sifnos
Authors: Gerasi E , Litopoulou‐Tzanetaki E , Tzanetakis N
Published: December 2004

Changes in the microbial flora of Manura, a raw ovine milk cheese, were studied during ripening. In general, the various microbial groups developed better on the cheese surface than in the interior, but red wine treatment had an inhibitory effect on their growth and microbial counts decreased (P < 0.05) more rapidly on the cheese surface than in the interior. NaCl and moisture of the cheese affected microbial levels significantly. Thus, Enterobacteriaceae and coliforms were reduced sharply (P < 0.05) during ripening on a straw bed (∼3 months) and they were not detected in mature cheese. Lactic acid bacteria predominated over the other microbial groups throughout ripening. Leuconostoc mesenteroides ssp. cremoris, Pediococcus pentosaceus and Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei, frequently found in maturing cheese, could be used as starters to make this cheese. Moreover, the lactic acid bacteria predominating in mature cheese, such as Weissella paramesenteroides, Lactobacillus bifermentans and Lactobacillus brevis, may contribute to cheese ripening through their biochemical activities.
Retention of β‐galactosidase activity in crude cellular extracts from Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus 11842 upon drying
Authors: Vasiljevic T , Jelen P
Published: December 2004

Crude cellular extracts (CCEs) containing active β‐galactosidase from
Lactobacillus delbrueckii
ssp.
bulgaricus
11842 were spray‐dried at three different outlet air temperatures (45, 55 or 65°C) or freeze‐dried, with or without whey proteins, casein, whey or skim milk as drying adjuncts. The use of whey or skim milk resulted in significantly (
P < 0.05) higher β‐galactosidase activity retention in comparison to all other CCEs. This effect was not related to the initial total solids (TS) content (4–10%) of the feedstock solutions, but was presumably caused by the presence of lactose in the whey or skim milk CCE preparations.
Sex‐specific patterns in baseline corticosterone and body condition changes in breeding Red‐footed Boobies Sula sula
Authors: LormÉe Herve , Jouventin Pierre , Trouve Colette , Chastel Olivier
Published: December 2004

Plasma levels of corticosterone often mirror changes in body condition and parental effort. In seabirds, the brooding of young chicks is often paralleled by a marked decline in adult body condition. This may reflect the trade‐off between the needs of the chick to be fed regularly and brooded, and that of the adult to spend enough time at sea to restore its body reserves and find food for the chick. In this paper, we describe changes in body condition and baseline corticosterone levels in a tropical seabird, the Red‐footed Booby Sula sula, in which the chick is continuously brooded for 5–6 weeks. Body condition did not decline during the brooding period. Female body condition remained stable throughout breeding whereas male body condition declined significantly during the late chick‐rearing period. Baseline corticosterone levels were low during the prelaying phase, increased significantly during incubation and were highest during the brooding period. Later in the chick‐rearing period, baseline corticosterone levels decreased markedly in females, but stayed elevated in males. There was no correlation between baseline corticosterone and body condition. Because of the chick's slow growth and reduced daily need for food, brooding in Red‐footed Boobies may not require a marked increase in parental effort, and the rise in corticosterone levels is probably more a reflection of slight changes in foraging activity. Red‐footed Booby males are 15% smaller than females and we suggest that the decline in male body condition during the late chick‐rearing period is likely to result from higher energetic flight costs or a lower foraging efficiency imposed by a smaller body size.
Amino acid composition of some woodland arthropods and its implications for breeding tits and other passerines
Authors: Ramsay Scot L. , Houston David C.
Published: December 2004

Several studies on Parids have noted a peak in the provisioning of spiders to nestlings in the early stages of development. It has been suggested that spider proteins are rich in the sulphur‐containing amino acid (SAA) cysteine and that increased provisioning may serve to provide extra cysteine during rapid feather growth. Amino acid analyses were conducted on samples of arthropod groups known to feature in the diet of breeding tits. Cysteine and methionine (both SAA) levels were slightly higher in aranaea protein than in that of other arthropods. However, we argue that the increased level of SAA found in aranaea is insufficient to drive the observed diet selection and that the timing of peak aranaea provisioning does not support the feather growth hypothesis. Instead, we propose that observed patterns of provisioning are due to high levels of taurine present in aranaea and that taurine may be an essential nutrient during a critical stage of chick development.
Differential moult patterns in relation to antipredator behaviour during incubation in four tundra plovers
Authors: Jukema Joop , Tulp Ingrid , Bruinzeel Leo
Published: December 2004

Golden plovers and Grey Plovers Pluvialis spp. all have very distinct breeding plumage rich in contrast, with a conspicuous black belly and breast bordered by a bright white fringe. Eurasian Golden Plovers are known partly to replace their breeding plumage with striped yellow feathers during incubation, different from both breeding and non‐breeding plumages. In this study a similar partial breeding moult was observed in Pacific Golden Plovers and American Golden Plovers caught on the nest or collected during incubation, although the feathers did not differ clearly from those of non‐breeders. This moult starts during incubation and precedes the post‐breeding moult into non‐breeding plumage. Because the lighter feathers reduce the contrast between the black belly and the white flanks, we suggest that during incubation the plumage characteristic that plays an important role in mate choice is no longer important; at this stage it is better for the bird to be inconspicuous. Additional information on museum skins of golden plovers and of Grey Plovers indicated that only the three golden plovers undergo this partial moult, but that Grey Plovers in general retain full breeding plumage throughout incubation. The three golden plovers also resemble each other in their generally very passive nest defence strategies. In contrast, the larger Grey Plovers actively chase and attack aerial and ground predators. Thus, a reduced conspicuousness of the body plumage during incubation is likely to benefit the golden plovers more than the Grey Plover. We suggest that nest defence behaviour, plumage characteristics and perhaps size have co‐evolved as a response to different selection pressures in golden plovers and Grey Plover, but alternative hypotheses are also discussed.
Group living, breeding behaviour and territoriality in the Subdesert MesiteMonias benschi
Authors: Seddon Nathalie , Tobias Joe A. , Butchart Stuart H. M.
Published: December 2004

In 1997–2000 we studied a population of Subdesert MesitesMonias benschiconsisting of 35–68 adults comprising 32 groups of two to nine birds (modal group size of four). The study population was significantly male‐biased in 1999 but not in 1997 or 1998. Overall, both sexes were philopatric, but when dispersal (or eviction) occurred, it appeared to be female‐biased. Over 40% of groups contained more than two adult males, whilst < 15% contained more than two adult females. Whilst there was no evidence of behavioural dominance by females, intrasexual aggression within groups was observed only amongst females. In contrast to other birds occupying the same habitat, breeding in mesites was not tied to rainfall, and occurred throughout the year. Each breeding unit constructed several nests every year, only one of which was used. All adult males and at least one adult female co‐operated to raise one or two clutches of one or two eggs per year. Males and females contributed equally to incubation. Chick production and chick survival were not related to group size or territory size. Groups defended large, permanent, and multipurpose territories and all group members contributed to territory defence. Territory size was positively correlated with the number of males in groups, but not with overall group size. Territories were tightly packed with very few areas unoccupied. Transect surveys conducted throughout the narrow geographical range of this species revealed its presence in a range of semi‐arid habitat types. Small groups were more likely to be detected in intact, high‐stature forest, whilst large groups were more likely to be detected in low‐stature forest containing numerous spiny, xerophytic treesDidierea madagascariensis.
Does fire increase the spatial heterogeneity of bird communities in Mediterranean landscapes?
Authors: Herrando Sergi , Brotons Lluís , Llacuna Santiago
Published: December 2004

The occurrence of large burnt areas has increased considerably in southern Europe in recent years. In order to design management plans to prevent large wildfires while preserving biodiversity, understanding of the ways in which birds respond to these fires is required. We investigated the spatial variability of both avifauna and habitat structure in three zones: unburnt, burnt in 1982, and burnt in 1994. The habitat structure of the unburnt zone was the most variable spatially. However, bird species composition between sampling points was very homogeneous in space. In contrast, the bird communities inhabiting burnt zones were more spatially heterogeneous. This pattern was caused by distinct specific responses to variations in habitat structure. Open‐space species responded to small changes in habitat structure with large changes in local abundance, whereas the response of forest species to these structural variations was much less. We suggest that land managers should select specific zones with limited vegetation recovery within large burnt areas and maintain them as open space to keep combustibility low and provide an appropriate habitat for several open space species that are of conservation concern.
The role of food supply in the dispersal behaviour of juvenile Tawny OwlsStrix aluco
Authors: Coles C. F. , Petty S. J. , Mackinnon J. L. , Thomas C. J.
Published: December 2004

We investigated the effects of food supply on decisions made by dispersing juvenile Tawny OwlsStrix alucoin Kielder Forest, Northumberland, in 1996 and 1997. Field VolesMicrotus agrestiswere the main food of the owls and clear‐cuts the main habitat for voles. A vole sign index was used to estimate vole abundance. In areas near to roosting owls, mean vole densities were 83 and 115 ha−1in 1996 and 1997, respectively. The prediction that birds would perform area‐restricted searches when prey was more abundant was not confirmed. Moreover, we found no evidence that juveniles avoided conspecifics. Owls appeared to have an imperfect knowledge of the environment as they responded to variability in Field Vole densities by altering the time spent in different areas rather than by moving to areas with successively greater vole densities. Vole abundance explained 25.7% of the variation in the time spent in different areas. Movements did not decrease with time after dispersal, although the detection of such movements was prone to error. This study supports recent work suggesting that although dispersal may be initiated by a variety of proximate and ultimate factors, individual decisions made during dispersal may depend partly on environmental conditions encountered during the process itself.
Simultaneous effects of age and territory quality on fecundity in Bonelli's EagleHieraaetus fasciatus
Authors: Penteriani Vincenzo , Balbontin Javier , Ferrer Miguel
Published: December 2004

Several factors that interact with a bird's age are likely to affect breeding performance. Because of habitat heterogeneity, individuals of different subpopulations may experience different probabilities of breeding, depending on the habitat that they occupy. The aim of this work is to test the hypothesis that age and territory quality independently affect breeding performance. We analysed data on breeding biology and fecundity at 298 breeding sites of Bonelli's EagleHieraaetus fasciatusin Andalusia from 1980 to 2000. Our data confirmed that age and territory quality simultaneously affect reproductive output. After controlling for the effect of year and age, breeding performance varied among territories. Independently of territory quality, the age of breeding birds affected the number of fledged young and variance in productivity.
Evolution of single‐chick broods in the Swallow‐tailed Gull Creagrus furcatus
Authors: Agreda ANA , Anderson David J.
Published: December 2004

Swallow‐tailed Gulls lay single‐egg clutches, and so raise single‐chick broods. As they are pelagic seabirds, this small brood size is expected to relate to proximate food limitation owing to infrequent food deliveries. However, a previous brood doubling experiment detected an 82% increase in fledging success from experimentally doubled broods compared to controls. We repeated the brood doubling experiment, and found that none of 50 enlarged broods produced more than one independent offspring. Control and experimental parents produced fledglings of similar body size, which also had indistinguishable rates of fledging and subsequent survival and reproduction. A variety of parameters estimating survival and breeding costs of reproduction showed no treatment effect. Since two‐chick broods yield dramatically higher fledging rates at some times, apparently without excess costs of reproduction, selection on brood size appears to favour a two‐chick brood. However, selection may not favour a two‐egg clutch if egg production is very costly. Additionally, our estimates of reproductive success do not incorporate the performance of experimental and control offspring as adults, which could differ, since growth of chicks differed slightly by treatment.
Anatomical and histophysiological characterization of the male cloacal protuberance of the polygynandrous Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris
Authors: Chiba Akira , Nakamura Masahiko
Published: December 2004

This paper describes the morphology of the male cloacal protuberance (CP) of the polygynandrous Alpine Accentor Prunella collaris, with special reference to intense sperm competition in the mating system. The fully developed CP consisted of dorsal (DL) and ventral (VL) lobes. The DL was found to be a massive part formed by a highly convoluted extension of the distal vas deferens with a fibro‐muscular sheath. Here, the vas deferens contained abundant spermatozoa, round cells of unknown origin, and secretory droplets in the tubular lumen. The epithelium of the vas deferens was lined with columnar cells that showed numerous microvilli and apocrine processes in their periluminal portion, frequent engulfing of spermatozoa, and many mitochondria and vesicular endoplasmic reticula in their cytoplasm. The VL was a smaller subdivision distal to the DL and further connected to a terminal papilla. The VL was organized similarly to the DL, but showed different features: it lay beneath the thick skin; the fibro‐muscular sheath was more muscular; the epithelial cells were cuboid and showed poorly developed microvilli; and the figures of secretion and engulfed spermatozoa were infrequent. Thus, the CP of the male Alpine Accentor showed a clear regional differentiation, i.e. the DL for storing/maintaining spermatozoa and the VL for storing/ejaculating spermatozoa.
Market Reform in New Jersey and the Effect on Mortality from Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Volpp Kevin G. M. , Williams Sankey V. , Waldfogel Joel , Silber Jeffrey H. , Schwartz J. Sanford , Pauly Mark V.
Published: December 2004

Objective. To determine whether mortality rates for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) changed in New Jersey after implementation of the Health Care Reform Act, which reduced subsidies for hospital care for the uninsured and changed hospital payment to price competition from a rate‐setting system based on hospital cost.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Patient discharge data from hospitals in New Jersey and New York from 1990 through 1996 and the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS).

Study Design. A comparison between states over time of unadjusted and risk‐adjusted mortality and cardiac procedure rates.

Data Collection. Discharge data were obtained for 286,640 patients with the primary diagnosis of AMI admitted to hospitals in New Jersey or New York from 1990 through 1996. Records of 364,273 NIS patients were used to corroborate time trends.

Principal Findings. There were no significant differences in AMI mortality among insured patients in New Jersey relative to New York or the NIS. However, there was a relative increase in mortality of 41 to 57 percent among uninsured New Jersey patients post‐reform, and their rates of expensive cardiac procedures decreased concomitantly.

Conclusions. The introduction of hospital price competition and reductions in subsidies for hospital care of the uninsured were associated with an increased mortality rate among uninsured New Jersey AMI patients. A relative decrease in the use of cardiac procedures in New Jersey may partly explain this finding. Additional studies should be done to identify whether other market reforms have been associated with changes in the quality of care.