bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of lipid metabolism by energy availability: a role for the central nervous system
Authors: Nogueiras R. , López M. , Diéguez C.
Published: October 2009

The central nervous system (CNS) is crucial in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Many neuroanatomical studies have shown that the white adipose tissue (WAT) is innervated by the sympathetic nervous system, which plays a critical role in adipocyte lipid metabolism. Therefore, there are currently numerous reports indicating that signals from the CNS control the amount of fat by modulating the storage or oxidation of fatty acids. Importantly, some CNS pathways regulate adipocyte metabolism independently of food intake, suggesting that some signals possess alternative mechanisms to regulate energy homeostasis. In this review, we mainly focus on how neuronal circuits within the hypothalamus, such as leptin‐ ghrelin‐and resistin‐responsive neurons, as well as melanocortins, neuropeptide Y, and the cannabinoid system exert their actions on lipid metabolism in peripheral tissues such as WAT, liver or muscle. Dissecting the complicated interactions between peripheral signals and neuronal circuits regulating lipid metabolism might open new avenues for the development of new therapies preventing and treating obesity and its associated cardiometabolic sequelae.
Variegate porphyria in a 46‐year‐old patient taking sibutramine for weight loss
Authors: Reiser M. , Eickmann S. , Haverkamp T. , Finckh U.
Published: October 2009

The acute hepatic porphyrias can cause life‐threatening attacks of neurovisceral symptoms that mimic other acute medical conditions. Variegate porphyria caused by mutations in the protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPOX) gene is a latent disorder characterized by exacerbations induced by fasting, alcohol consumption or certain drugs. We describe the case of a 46‐year‐old female patient presenting with a first episode of symptomatic porphyria after 10 d of sibutramine treatment for weight loss. Genetic analysis showed a heterozygous R168H hot spot mutation in the PPOX gene. A putative effect of sibutramine on the hepatic haem biosynthetic pathway and reduced food intake have likely caused this exacerbation of a porphyria attack. Although this may be the first case report of this kind, the risk of acute porphyria should be considered in patients using pharmacotherapy for obesity.
Ongoing Victim Suffering Increases Prejudice: The Case of Secondary Anti-Semitism
Authors: Imhoff Roland , Banse Rainer
Published: October 2009

Some people have postulated that the perception of Jews' ongoing suffering from past atrocities can result in an increase in anti-Semitism. This postulated secondary anti-Semitism is compatible with a number of psychological theories, but until now there has been no empirical evidence in support of this notion. The present study provides the first evidence that ongoing suffering evokes an increase in prejudice against the victims. However, this effect became apparent only if respondents felt obliged to respond truthfully because of a bogus pipeline (BPL); without this constraint, the perception of ongoing victim suffering led to a socially desirable reduction in self-reported prejudice. The validity of the BPL manipulation was confirmed by the finding that it moderated the relation between explicit and implicit anti-Semitism, as measured with an affect misattribution procedure.
NEOGEOGRAPHY AND THE PALIMPSESTS OF PLACE: WEB 2.0 AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF A VIRTUAL EARTH
Authors: GRAHAM MARK
Published: October 2009

Places have always been palimpsests. The contemporary is constantly being constructed upon the foundations of the old. Yet only recently has place begun to take on an entirely new dimension. Millions of places are being represented in cyberspace by a labour force of hundreds of thousands of writers, cartographers and artists. This paper traces the history and geography of virtual places. The virtual Earth is not a simple mirror of its physical counterpart, but is instead characterised by both black holes of information and hubs of rich description and detail. The tens of millions of places represented virtually are part of a worldwide engineering project that is unprecedented in scale or scope and made possible by contemporary Web 2.0 technologies. The virtual Earth that has been constructed is more than just a collection of digital maps, images and articles that have been uploaded into Web 2.0 cyberspaces; it is instead a fluid and malleable alternate dimension that both influences and is influenced by the physical world.
A Framework for Interpreting Climate Model Outputs
Authors: Leith Nadja A. , Chandler Richard E.
Published: October 2009

Projections of future climate are often based on deterministic models of the Earth’s atmosphere and oceans. However, these projections can vary widely between models, with differences becoming more pronounced at the relatively fine spatial and temporal scales that are relevant in many applications. We suggest that the resulting uncertainty can be handled in a logically coherent and interpretable way by using a hierarchical statistical model, implemented in a Bayesian framework. Model fitting using Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques is feasible but moderately time consuming; the computational efficiency can, however, be improved dramatically by substituting maximum likelihood estimates for the original data. The work was motivated by the need for future precipitation scenarios in the UK, in applications such as flood risk assessment and water resource management. We illustrate the methodology by considering the generation of multivariate time series of atmospheric variables, that can be used to drive stochastic simulations of high resolution precipitation for risk assessment purposes.
Growth hormone and ghrelin secretion are associated with clinical severity in Huntington’s disease
Authors: Aziz N. A. , Pijl H. , Frölich M. , Schröder‐van der Elst J. P. , Van Der Bent C. , Roelfsema F. , Roos R. A. C.
Published: October 2009

Background and purpose:  Huntington’s disease (HD) is a fatal hereditary neurodegenerative disorder caused by an increased CAG repeat size in the huntingtin gene. Apart from neurological impairment, the disease is also accompanied by progressive weight loss, abnormalities in glucose homeostasis and a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, which may partly be caused by disturbed growth hormone (GH) and ghrelin secretion. Therefore, we aimed to perform a detailed analysis of GH and ghrelin secretion in HD patients in relation to clinical signs and symptoms.

Methods:  In nine early‐stage, medication‐free HD patients and nine age‐, gender‐ and body mass index‐matched controls, we measured serum GH levels every 10 min for 24 h and assessed ghrelin response to food intake. Multi‐parameter auto‐deconvolution and approximate entropy analysis were applied to quantify basal, pulsatile, and total GH secretion rates as well as the regularity of GH secretion.

Results:  We found no significant differences in GH and ghrelin secretion characteristics between HD patients and controls (total GH secretion: 137 ± 36 vs. 181 ± 43 mU/l/24 h, respectively; P = 0.439). However, in HD patients, both GH secretion and its irregularity as well as the degree of postprandial ghrelin suppression significantly increased with worsening motor and functional impairment (all P < 0.05). Moreover, postprandial ghrelin suppression also increased with decreasing body weight and higher CAG repeat number (both P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  These findings suggest changes in the regulation of GH and ghrelin secretion dynamics in early stage HD patients that could become more prominent in the later stages of the disease.
Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of white matter lesions – cross‐sectional results from the LADIS study
Authors: Jonsson M. , Zetterberg H. , Van Straaten E. , Lind K. , Syversen S. , Edman Å. , Blennow K. , Rosengren L. , Pantoni L. , Inzitari D. , Wallin A.
Published: October 2009

Background and purpose:  White matter lesions (WMLs) caused by small vessel disease are common in elderly people and contribute to cognitive impairment. There are no established biochemical markers for WMLs. We aimed to study the relation between degree of WMLs rated on magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of structural biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and subcortical vascular dementia.

Methods:  Fifty‐three non‐demented elderly individuals with WMLs were subjected to lumbar puncture. Degree of WMLs was rated using the Fazekas scale. Volumetric assessment of WMLs was performed. CSF samples were analyzed for the 40 and 42 amino acid fragments of amyloid β, α‐ and β‐cleaved soluble amyloid precursor protein, total tau (T‐tau), hyperphosphorylated tau (P‐tau181), neurofilament light protein (NFL), sulfatide and CSF/Serum‐albumin ratio.

Results:  Fifteen subjects had mild, 23 had moderate and 15 had severe degree of WMLs. CSF‐NFL levels differed between the groups (P < 0.001) and correlated with the volume of WMLs (r = 0.477, P < 0.001). CSF sulfatide concentration displayed similar changes but less strongly. T‐tau, P‐tau181 and the different amyloid markers as well as CSF/S‐albumin ratio did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusions:  The association of increased CSF‐NFL levels with increasing severity of WMLs in non‐demented subjects suggests that NFL is a marker for axonal damage in response to small vessel disease in the brain. This manifestation may be distinct from or earlier than the neurodegenerative process seen in AD, as reflected by the lack of association between WMLs and AD biomarkers.
Distribution of Artemin and GFRα3 Labeled Nerve Fibers in the Dura Mater of Rat
Authors: McIlvried Lisa A. , Albers Kathryn , Gold Michael S.
Published: October 2009

(Headache 2010;50:442‐450)

Objective.— We examined the distribution of artemin and its receptor, glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor family receptor α3 (GFRα3), in the dura mater of rats.

Background.— Artemin, a member of the glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor family, is a vasculature‐derived growth factor shown to regulate migration of sympathetic neuroblasts and targeting of sympathetic innervation. The artemin receptor, GFRα3, is present in both sympathetic efferents and a subpopulation of nociceptive afferents. Recent evidence has shown that artemin may contribute to inflammatory hyperalgesia. The extent to which artemin is present in the dural vasculature and its relationship to GFRα3 containing fibers have yet to be investigated.

Methods.— We used retrograde labeling, double and triple labeling with immunohistochemistry on the dura mater and trigeminal ganglia of female Sprague‐Dawley rats.

Results.— Artemin‐like immunoreactivity (‐LI) was detected in the smooth muscle of dural vasculature. GFRα3‐LI was present in nerve fibers that closely associated with tyrosine hydroxylase or calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP). CGRP‐LI and transient receptor potential ion channel 1 (TRPV1)‐LI were present in all GFRα3‐positive dural afferents, which constituted 22% of the total population of dural afferents.

Conclusions.— These anatomical results support the hypothesis that artemin contributes to dural afferent activity, and possibly migraine pain, through modulation of both primary afferent and sympathetic systems.
Lack of Efficacy of Manual Therapy in Children and Adolescents With Suspected Cervicogenic Headache: Results of a Prospective, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled, and Blinded Trial
Authors: Borusiak Peter , Biedermann Heiner , Boßerhoff Stephanie , Opp Joachim
Published: October 2009

(Headache 2010;50:224‐230)

Objective.— Clinical trials concerning cervical spine manipulation and mobilization in children and adolescents with cervicogenic headache are lacking.

Methods.— We performed a multicenter, prospective, randomized, placebo‐controlled, and blinded trial in 52 children and adolescents (21 boys, 31 girls) aged 7‐15. After prospective baseline documentation for 2 months patients were either assigned to placebo or true manipulation with another 2‐month follow‐up. Main outcome measures were defined as: percentage of days with headache, total duration of headache, days with school absence due to headache, consume of analgesics, intensity of headache.

Results.— We did not find a significant difference comparing the groups with placebo and true manipulation with respect to the defined main outcome measures.

Conclusions.— We were not able to show an efficacy of cervical spine manipulation in 52 children and adolescents.
SUNCT Responsive to Percutaneous Balloon Compression of the Gasserian Ganglion – 10‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Baabor Marcos , Rosas Carlos Silva , Pérez‐Limonte Leonel
Published: October 2009

(Headache 2010;50:143‐145)

We report the case of a woman with short‐lasting unilateral, neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) whose severe headache attacks ceased after percutaneous balloon compression of the Gasserian ganglion. The patient remains pain free after 10‐year follow‐up. This may be the first literature report of SUNCT in Chile.
The Evolving Food Chain: Competitive Effects of Wal‐Mart's Entry into the Supermarket Industry
Authors: Basker Emek , Noel Michael
Published: October 2009

We analyze the effect of Wal‐Mart's entry into the grocery market using a unique store‐level price panel data set. We use ordinary least squares and two instrumental‐variables specifications to estimate the effect of Wal‐Mart's entry on competitors' prices of 24 grocery items across several categories. Wal‐Mart's price advantage over competitors for these products averages approximately 10%. On average, competitors' response to entry by a Wal‐Mart Supercenter is a price reduction of 1–1.2%, mostly due to smaller‐scale competitors; the response of the “Big Three” supermarket chains (Albertson's, Safeway, and Kroger) is less than half that size. Low‐end grocery stores, which compete more directly with Wal‐Mart, cut their prices more than twice as much as higher‐end stores. We confirm our results using a falsification exercise, in which we test for Wal‐Mart's effect on prices of services that it does not provide, such as movie tickets and dry‐cleaning services.
Two‐Sided Platforms: Product Variety and Pricing Structures
Authors: Hagiu Andrei
Published: October 2009

This paper provides a new modeling framework to analyze two‐sided platforms connecting producers and consumers. In contrast to the existing literature, indirect network effects are determined endogenously, through consumers' taste for variety and producer competition. Three new aspects of platform pricing structures are derived. First, the optimal platform pricing structure shifts towards extracting more rents from producers relative to consumers when consumers have stronger demand for variety, since producers become less substitutable. With platform competition, consumer preferences for variety, producer market power, and producer economies of scale in multihoming also make platforms' price‐cutting strategies on the consumer side less effective. This second effect on equilibrium pricing structures goes in the opposite direction relative to the first one. Third, variable fees charged to producers can serve to trade off producer innovation incentives against the need to reduce a platform holdup problem.
With a Little Help from My Enemy: Comparative Advertising as a Signal of Quality
Authors: Barigozzi Francesca , Garella Paolo G. , Peitz Martin
Published: October 2009

We extend the theory of advertising as a quality signal using a model where an entrant can choose to advertise by comparing its product to that of an established incumbent. Comparative advertising, comparing quality of one's own product to that of a rival's, empowers the latter to file for court intervention if it believes the comparison to be false or misleading. We show that comparative advertising can be a signal in instances where generic advertising is not viable.
Performance Indicators for Quality with Costly Falsification
Authors: Kuhn Michael , Siciliani Luigi
Published: October 2009

Performance indicators are increasingly used to regulate quality in health care and the public sector. We develop a model of contracting between a purchaser and a provider under the following assumptions: (a) providers have private information about their own ability and (b) they can engage in costly manipulation of quality measures. If the contract is separating, manipulation reduces the optimal quality effort but increases the quality targets. If the purchaser's benefit from quality is sufficiently concave, then pooling of high‐ability types (or all types) turns out to be optimal. (Partial) pooling provides a rationale for quality ceilings and minimum quality standards.
The Choice of Prices versus Quantities under Uncertainty
Authors: Reisinger Markus , Ressner Ludwig
Published: October 2009

This paper analyzes a duopoly model with stochastic demand in which firms first commit to a strategy variable and compete afterwards. We find that in equilibrium the relative magnitude of demand uncertainty and the degree of substitutability determines firms' variable choice. Firms set prices if uncertainty is high compared to the degree of substitutability and quantities if the reverse holds true. The reason is that demand uncertainty and the degree of substitutability have countervailing effects on variable choice: Prices adapt better to uncertainty while quantities induce softer competition. If no effect dominates, firms choose different strategy variables in equilibrium.
Footloose Monopolies: Regulating a “National Champion”
Authors: Calzolari Giacomo , Scarpa Carlo
Published: October 2009

We analyze the design of optimal regulation of a domestic monopolist that also competes in an unregulated foreign market. We show how foreign activities affect regulation, consumers' surplus, national welfare, and firm's profits. Although expansion in unregulated foreign markets amplifies the distortions that are caused by the regulator's limited information, we also show that allowing the firm to compete abroad does not necessarily harm domestic consumers. We analyze if and when the firm's decision to expand abroad coincides with national interests.
On cone‐beam computed tomography artifacts induced by titanium implants
Authors: Schulze Ralf Kurt Willy , Berndt Dorothea , D'Hoedt Bernd
Published: October 2009

Objectives: To briefly review the mathematical background of beam‐hardening artifacts in cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT)‐reconstruction and to investigate geometrical properties relevant for these reconstruction errors. By means of simulated and experimental results, beam‐hardening effects caused by titanium implants are evaluated.

Materials and methods: The geometrical and physical properties of the acquisition process of the projections used for 3D reconstruction are investigated and their effects on the CBCT images in the presence of titanium implants are derived. Beam‐hardening effects are computed for a simplified polychromatic situation (three energy subsets of 80 and 110 kV) and compared with experimental results from a hard‐plaster phantom containing two ‘implants’ (pure titanium rods; 4 mm diameter) exposed in two CBCT machines.

Results: Massive absorption within a typical implant body (diameter: 4 mm) was computed for the low‐energy subset of both energies (80 kV: 99.7%; 110 kV: 90.9%), whereas the high‐energy subsets are only marginally absorbed (80 kV: 14.8%; 110 kV: 11.3%). Accordingly, phantom data revealed drastically reduced gray values in artifact‐affected regions (3DAccuitomo: −46% to −51%) or (3DExam: −55%) plus increased noise (+67% vs. +73%), when compared with unaffected regions.

Conclusions: Our theoretical and experimental results prove massive beam‐hardening artifacts for a typical implant diameter and typical energies of up‐to‐date CBCT machines. Meaningful artifact reduction has to be based on more sophisticated mathematical modeling of the actual physical image acquisition process rather than on postprocessing of the erroneous results obtained from the rather crude reconstruction algorithms used presently.

To cite this article:
 Schulze RKW, Berndt D, d'Hoedt B. On cone‐beam computed tomography artifacts induced by titanium implants. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2008; 100–107.
Caries and background factors in Norwegian and immigrant 5‐year‐old children
Authors: Wigen Tove I. , Wang Nina J.
Published: October 2009

Wigen TI, Wang NJ. Caries and background factors in Norwegian and immigrant 5‐year‐old children. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 19–28. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to assess the caries status of 5‐year‐olds in a low caries area, and study associations between dental caries and parent‐related factors: parents’ education, national origin, oral health behaviours and attitudes.

Methods:  The material consisted of 523 children and was a stratified random sample. Clinical and radiographic examination was performed in 2007. Enamel and dentine caries were recorded at surface level. Parents filled in questionnaires regarding socioeconomic status, their own oral health behaviours and attitudes.

Results:  Most participants (66%) had no caries experience and 16% had enamel caries only. Dentine caries experience was present in 18% of the children, and 5% had dentine caries experience in five or more teeth. Surfaces with enamel caries constituted half of all surfaces with caries experience. In multiple logistic regression, statistically significant risk indicators for the child having dentine caries experience at the age of five were: having one or both parents of non‐western origin (OR = 4.8), both parents (OR = 3.0) or one parent (OR = 2.1) with low education, parental laxness about the child’s tooth brushing (OR = 2.8), parents’ brushing their own teeth less than twice a day (OR = 2.2) and having parents with frequent sugar intakes (OR = 1.8).

Conclusion:  Caries prevalence in 5‐year‐olds was strongly associated with parent‐related factors signifying that information on parents’ socioeconomic status, dental behaviours and attitudes should be considered when planning dental services for young children. Our results suggest that the real high risk group is non‐western children whose parents have low education.
Quantification of betel quid chewing and cigarette smoking in oral cancer patients
Authors: Tsai Kuo‐Yang , Su Che‐Chun , Lin Yo‐Yu , Chung Jian‐An , Lian Ie‐Bin
Published: October 2009

Background:  Betel quid chewing and cigarette smoking are two of the risk factors for some dental diseases as well as oral cavity cancer in Taiwan. The aim of the study was to quantify these factors in oral cavity cancer patients and compare the prevalence of these factors in patients and the general population.

Methods:  A questionnaire was designed to evaluate betel quid chewing, cigarette smoking and alcohol drinking in 254 patients, who had squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, and had received surgical excision at the Changhua Christian Hospital in Taiwan between 2005 and 2008. The results were compared with those of population of Taiwan, based on a nation‐wide survey with sample of 26 744 people.

Results:  We found that more than 80% of the male patients were both betel quid chewers and smokers. Few women in the survey practiced betel quid chewing, cigarette smoking or alcohol drinking. Chewers and smokers usually started the habits in their 20s. On average, a chewer patient consumed 12 508 betel quid pieces per year, for 23.3 years before the diagnosis of oral cavity cancer, making the total amount of betel quid consumed nearly 310 000 pieces; and a smoker patient consumed 469 packs per year, for 28.5 years before diagnosis, making the total number of about 14 000 packs. Patients with both habits had the age at diagnosis 4 years earlier than the smoker‐only patients, 5 years earlier than the chewer‐only patients, and 6 years earlier than those with neither.

Conclusions:  On average, it took two decades of betel quid chewing and cigarette smoking before oral cavity cancer diagnosis, making the life‐time consumption of these substances an astonishing amount. Betel quid chewing and cigarette smoking patients are more likely to be diagnosed with oral cavity cancer at a younger age than those who have just one habit or none. Patients that smoke more are not only more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age, but also at an advanced stage.
Adolescent toothbrushing and the home environment: sociodemographic factors, family relationships and mealtime routines and disorganisation
Authors: Levin Kate A. , Currie Candace
Published: October 2009

Levin KA, Currie C. Adolescent toothbrushing and the home environment: sociodemographic factors, family relationships and mealtime routines and disorganisation. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 10–18. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Objectives:  Previous studies have shown that sociodemographic factors are associated with adolescent toothbrushing. While there has been some investigation of parental modelling of oral health behaviour and the association between parental support and oral health, there has been no investigation of the home environment and its effect on oral health behaviour. The current study examines variables related to the family, including mealtime routines and family relationships to determine the best predictors of adolescent toothbrushing.

Methods:  Data from the 2006 Health Behaviour in School‐Aged Children Survey were modelled using logistic univariate and multivariable modelling with outcome variable twice‐a‐day toothbrushing.

Results:  Higher family socioeconomic and affluence were significantly associated with greater odds of toothbrushing twice a day or more. Family structure was also significantly associated with girls’ toothbrushing. However, under the multivariable model, eating breakfast was found to be the best predictor of twice‐a‐day toothbrushing among boys and girls. The next best predictor of boys’ toothbrushing was eating family meals and of girls’ toothbrushing, never going to bed hungry, followed by family affluence for both boys and girls. Under the multivariable model, family structure was no longer significantly associated with girls’ toothbrushing.

Conclusions:  The study shows that the family and home environment should play a central role in the promotion of oral health, through mealtime routines, incorporating a fair parenting style and developing open and positive family relationships. Not only are these strongly associated with twice a day toothbrushing but, unlike sociodemographic factors, they may be relatively easy to adopt.
Effect of honey and its major royal jelly protein 1 on cytokine and MMP‐9 mRNA transcripts in human keratinocytes
Authors: Majtan Juraj , Kumar Pawan , Majtan Tomas , Walls Andrew F. , Klaudiny Jaroslav
Published: October 2009

Please cite this paper as: Effect of honey and its major royal jelly protein 1 on cytokine and MMP‐9 mRNA transcripts in human keratinocytes. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: e73–e79.

Abstract:  Honey has been used since ancient times as a remedy in wound healing. However, even though the results from randomized clinical trials document that honey accelerates wound healing, no study dealing with its influence on human skin cells (epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblast) has been performed. We demonstrate that keratinocytes, which are known to be involved in wound healing, are responsible for elevated production of mediators including cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐1β and TGF‐β) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) after incubation with honey. Real‐time PCR was performed for the quantification of mRNA level of selected cytokines and MMP‐9. Furthermore, we show that the increased level of MMP‐9 in the epidermis following incubation with honey leads to degradation of type IV collagen in the basement membrane. These data indisputably demonstrate that honey activates keratinocytes and support the findings that honey may accelerate wound healing process.
About the cutaneous targets of bexarotene in CTCL patients
Authors: Knol Anne Chantal , Quéreux Gaëlle , Brocard Anabelle , Ballanger Fabienne , Khammari Amir , Nguyen Jean‐Michel , Dréno Brigitte
Published: October 2009

Please cite this paper as: About the cutaneous targets of bexarotene in CTCL patients. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: e299–e301.

Abstract:  There are several approved therapies for cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). The retinoids are one of the major biologic response modifiers used in CTCL, producing good response rates but few complete responses. Bexarotene has been demonstrated to act on malignant T‐cells by inducing their apoptosis, but nothing is known about its role on keratinocytes and Langerhans cells. Immunohistochemical analysis using CD1a, HLA‐DR, ICAM‐1 (activation markers), CD95 and CD40 (apoptosis markers) was conducted on frozen sections of bexarotene‐exposed cutaneous explants and skin biopsy specimens from patients treated with bexarotene. None of the studied markers was significantly modulated both on cutaneous explants and on skin biopsy specimens after treatment with bexarotene, compared to controls. Langerhans cells and keratinocytes do not appear to play a central role in the therapeutic control of CTCL by bexarotene therapy. The main bexarotene’s target thus remains T‐cells by inducing their apoptosis, a mechanism that is different from the other retinoids used in CTCL.
A modified Z‐plasty technique for severe tightness of the gluteus maximus
Authors: Nam K. W. , Yoo J. J. , Koo K. H. , Yoon K. S. , Kim H. J.
Published: October 2009

The majority of reports concern external snapping hips caused by the iliotibial band. Comparatively, little information is available regarding snapping hips caused by a gluteus maximus. Here we show that hip problems caused by a tight gluteus maximus can be treated using a modified Z‐plasty technique. Fourteen hips in seven patients were diagnosed as snapping hips caused by a tight gluteus maximus. The main functional impairment is that when the hips were flexed, legs were abducted widely and could not be adducted. All had functional impairments irresponsive to conservative treatments besides snapping, whether painful or not, and all patients underwent surgery using a modified Z‐plasty technique on the iliotibial band. All patients were followed up and the mean follow‐up was 7 years. All patients had complete resolution of functional impairments, snapping, and pain after surgery. No patient needed revision surgery, and there were no complications, such as, abductor weakness, or irritation over the greater trochanter. We suggest that the intrinsic tendon contracture can cause serious functional impairment in patients with snapping due to a tight gluteus maximus. In this context, a modified Z‐plasty technique offers a good surgical approach.
The influence of speed of approach and accuracy constraint on the maximal speed of the ball in soccer kicking
Authors: Andersen T. B. , Dörge H. C.
Published: October 2009

The kicking skill of the individual player is of great importance in soccer, and two parameters can be identified as being important in soccer kicking – achieving high speed of the ball and accuracy of performance. The purpose of the current study was to examine the influence of different speeds of approach on the maximal speed of the ball when kicking a stationary ball, and to examine the influence of accuracy of performance on the maximal speed of the ball relevant to a penalty kick. Seven male soccer players kicked for maximal speed of the ball (I) with a self‐selected angle and speed of approach, (II) with accuracy demand placed on the subjects, (III) with a straight‐line approach of different velocities ranging from 0 m/s to maximal running speed. The maximal speed of the ball was between 28.60 and 34.48 m/s. An accuracy constraint caused the speed of the ball to decline to 85%. With a straight‐line approach, the maximal speed of the ball was between 25.64 and 32.26 m/s. When the subjects approached the ball at speeds other than the self‐selected speed of approach, the speed of the ball declined, indicating a subject‐specific optimal speed of approach.
Modelling the determinants of 2000 m rowing ergometer performance: a proportional, curvilinear allometric approach
Authors: Nevill A. M. , Allen S. V. , Ingham S. A.
Published: October 2009

Previous studies have investigated the determinants of indoor rowing using correlations and linear regression. However, the power demands of ergometer rowing are proportional to the cube of the flywheel's (and boat's) speed. A rower's speed, therefore, should be proportional to the cube root (0.33) of power expended. Hence, the purpose of the present study was to explore the relationship between 2000 m indoor rowing speed and various measures of power of 76 elite rowers using proportional, curvilinear allometric models. The best single predictor of 2000 m rowing ergometer performance was power at V̇O2max ()0.28, that explained R2=95.3% in rowing speed. The model realistically describes the greater increment in power required to improve a rower's performance by the same amount at higher speeds compared with that at slower speeds. Furthermore, the fitted exponent, 0.28 (95% confidence interval 0.226–0.334) encompasses 0.33, supporting the assumption that rowing speed is proportional to the cube root of power expended. Despite an R2=95.3%, the initial model was unable to explain “sex” and “weight‐class” differences in rowing performances. By incorporating anaerobic as well as aerobic determinants, the resulting curvilinear allometric model was common to all rowers, irrespective of sex and weight class.
Basic measures and systemic medical treatment of patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Hanken Imke , Schimmer Melanie , Sander Christian A.
Published: October 2009

Background: With an incidence of 1.5–1.8/1 million inhabitants per year, toxic epidermal necrolysis is a rare but life threatening disease. It is almost always drug‐induced and its lethality is pronounced with up to 50 %. Several therapeutic options are described in literature; however, there is still lack of a universally accepted and specific therapy of toxic epidermal necrolysis.

Methods: This survey considers 8 cases of toxic epidermal necrolysis diagnosed and treated in our clinic from 2003 to 2007. The epidermal sloughing was > 30 % of the body surface in each case.

Results: After immediately discontinuing the drug suspected of being responsible for toxic epidermal necrolysis, we treated with systemic corticosteroids in an initial dose of up to 1.5 mg/kg. Moreover, special emphasis was put on basic measures such as control of vital parameters. With this treatment we reached good results; none of the patients died.

Conclusions: Immediate beginning of therapy is essential for a successful treatment of toxic epidermal necrolysis. Besides systemic therapy with corticosteroids, certain basic measures such as isolation of patients at adequate room temperature to prevent hypothermia, strict control of circulation, temperature and laboratory parameters, daily smears of skin and mucous membranes and a diet rich in calories due to the catabolic metabolic status are very important for successful outcome.
Relationship between the lactation curve and udder disease incidence in different lactation stages in first‐lactation Holstein cows
Authors: YAMAZAKI Takeshi , TAKEDA Hisato , NISHIURA Akiko , TOGASHI Kenji
Published: October 2009

We examined the relationships between the shape of the first parity lactation curve and udder disease incidence at different stages of lactation in 538 Holstein cows. Data used were first‐parity daily milk yields and treatment records. Each cow was classified according to whether or not it had had udder disease at least once over the whole lactation period or in one of three stages within the lactation period. We then examined the differences in the shapes of the lactation curves between the disease incidence and non‐incidence group in each stage. Cows that had high rates of increase in milk yield and high milk yields in early lactation were predisposed to udder disease afterwards. Cows with high milk production over a long period but with low lactation persistency were predisposed to udder disease after the peak of lactation. There was no difference in total milk yield between incidence and non‐incidence groups in all stages, suggesting that, for a comparable level of lactation, cows without udder diseases have flatter lactation curves.
Production of Spherical Granule from Viscous Red Ginseng Extracts for Improving Product Fluency and Preservation and Its Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Lee Gyu‐Hee , Shin Myung‐Gon
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  Viscose red ginseng extracts dried and coated using fluidized bed coater may broaden their application in food processing industry and increasing the consumer acceptance. The operating conditions of fluidized bed coater were optimized for obtaining high yield and uniform spherical granule. The physicochemical properties and sensory characteristics among the concentrates, the fluidized bed dried core particle and the spherical granules of red ginseng extract were compared. The preservative properties of these materials were also analyzed. The predicted maximum yield of spherical granule was 85.42%, at a feeding rate (FR) of 111.04 mL/min, an atomization air pressure (AP) 275.30 kPa, and a product temperature (PT) of 68.53 °C. Most of ginsenosides, which were known as functional material, did not show significant changes after granulation, while the flowability and water solubility increased. Also, for a 10‐mo storage at 30 °C, the spherical granule was the most stable among the materials considered. It can be concluded that the application of fluidized bed coater can be used for making the food product of viscous extracts more valuable.
Quenching Mechanism and Kinetics of Ascorbic Acid on the Photosensitizing Effects of Synthetic Food Colorant FD&C Red Nr 3
Authors: Yang Tsung‐Shi , Min David B.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  The pH effect on the oxidative stability of ascorbic acid in the presence of food colorant FD&C Red Nr 3 during storage with or without light was investigated. The quenching mechanism and kinetics of ascorbic acid on the FD&C Red Nr 3 photosensitized oxidation in an aqueous system at 25 °C were also studied by measuring the degradation of ascorbic acid or depletion of headspace oxygen. Red Nr 3 had no influence on the oxidation of ascorbic acid under dark storage, but accelerated its oxidation rate under light storage. The oxidative stability of ascorbic acid decreased as the pH increased from 4 to 7 under light without FD&C Red Nr 3. The quenching rates of ascorbic acid on the singlet oxygen by measuring the degradation of ascorbic acid in the presence of Red Nr 3 under light storage were 1.53 ± 0.15 × 108, 1.86 ± 0.25 × 108, and 1.19 ± 0.12 × 108 M−1S−1 at pH 4, 5.6, and 7, respectively.
Effect of Gamma Radiation and Oregano Essential Oil on Murein and ATP Concentration of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Caillet Stéphane , Ursachi Laura , Shareck François , Lacroix Monique
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  The study was carried out to evaluate the effects of gamma‐irradiation alone or in combination with oregano essential oil on murein composition of Staphylococcus aureus and on the intracellular and extracellular concentration of ATP. The bacterial strain was treated with 3 irradiation doses: 1.2 kGy to induce cell damage, 2.9 kGy to obtain a viable but nonculturable state, and 3.5 kGy to cause cell death. Oregano essential oil was used at 0.010% and 0.013% (w/v), which is the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). All treatments had a significant effect (P ≤ 0.05) on the murein composition, although some muropeptides did not seem to be affected by the treatment. Each treatment influenced differently the relative percentage and number of muropeptides. There was a significant (P ≤ 0.05) correlation between the reduction of intracellular ATP and increase in extracellular ATP following treatment of the cells with oregano oil. The reduction of intracellular ATP was even more important when essential oil was combined with irradiation. Also, irradiation alone of S. aureus induced a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) of the internal ATP and a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) of the external ATP. However, no significant difference (P > 0.05) was observed in ATP concentrations between different radiation doses. Transmission electron microscopic observation revealed that oregano oil and irradiation have an effect on cell wall structure.
Microbiological and Sensorial Quality Assessment of Ready‐to‐Cook Seafood Products Packaged under Modified Atmosphere
Authors: Speranza B. , Corbo M.R. , Conte A. , Sinigaglia M. , Del Nobile M.A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  The effects of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) (30:40:30 O2:CO2:N2 and 5:95 O2:CO2) on the quality of 4 ready‐to‐cook seafood products were studied. In particular, the investigation was carried out on hake fillets, yellow gurnard fillets, chub mackerel fillets, and entire eviscerated cuttlefish. Quality assessment was based on microbiological and sensorial indices determination. Both packaging gas mixtures contributed to a considerable slowing down of the microbial and sensorial quality loss of the investigated seafood products. Results showed that sensorial quality was the subindex that limited their shelf life. In fact, based primarily on microbiological results, samples under MAP remained acceptable up to the end of storage (that is, 14 d), regardless of fish specie. On the other hand, results from sensory analyses showed that chub mackerel fillets in MAP were acceptable up to the 6th storage d, whilst hake fillets, yellow gurnard fillets, and entire cuttlefish became unacceptable after 10 to 11 d. However, compared to control samples, an increase in the sensorial shelf life of MAP samples (ranging from about 95% to 250%) was always recorded.

Practical Application: Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is an inexpensive and uncomplicated method of extending shelf life of packed seafood. It could gain great attention from the fish industrial sector due to the fact that MAP is a practical and economic technique, realizable by small technical expedients. Moreover, there is great attention from the food industry and retailers to react to the growing demand for convenience food, thus promoting an increase in the assortments of ready‐to‐cook seafood products.
Inactivation of Aspergillus niger in Mango Nectar by High‐Pressure Homogenization Combined with Heat Shock
Authors: Tribst Alline A.L. , Franchi Mark A. , Cristianini Marcelo , De Massaguer Pilar R.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  This research evaluated the inactivation of a heat‐resistant Aspergillus niger conidia in mango nectar by high‐pressure homogenization (HPH) combined with heat shock. A.niger were inoculated in mango nectar (106 conidia mL−1) and subjected to HPH (300 to 100 MPa) and heat shock (80 °C for 5 to 20 min) before or after HPH. Processes were evaluated according to number of decimal reductions reached by each isolated or combined process. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to observe conidia wall after pressure treatment. Pressures below 150 MPa did not inactivate A. niger while pressures of 200 and 300 MPa resulted in 2 and more than 6 log reductions, respectively. D80 °C of A. niger was determined as 5.03 min. A heat shock of 80 °C/15 min, reaching 3 decimal conidia reductions, was applied before or after a 200 MPa pressure treatment to improve the decimal reduction to 5 log cycles. Results indicated that HPH inactivated A. niger in mango nectar at 300 MPa (>6.24 log cycles) and that, with pressure (200 MPa) combined with post heat shock, it was possible to obtain the same decimal reduction, showing a synergistic effect. On the other hand, pre heat shock associated with HPH resulted in an additive effect. The observation of A. niger conidia treated by HPH at 100 and 200 MPa by scanning electron microscopy indicated that HPH promoted intense cell wall damage, which can sensitize the conidia to post heat shock and possibly explain the synergistic effect observed.

Practical Application: The results obtained in this paper are relevant to elucidate the mechanism of conidia inactivation in order to develop the application of HPH as an alternative pasteurization process for the fruit nectar industry.
Survival of Cronobacter Species in Reconstituted Herbal Infant Teas and their Sensitivity to Bovine Lactoferrin
Authors: Al‐Nabulsi Anas A. , Osaili Tareq M. , Shaker Reyad R. , Olaimat Amin N. , Ayyash Mutamed M. , Holley Richard A.
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  Cronobacter is a new genus containing 5 species previously known as Enterobacter sakazakii. The popularity of “natural” substances and alternative medicine has extended the use of natural antimicrobials and herbs to foods, and some herbs are claimed to relieve gastric disturbances in infants. The present study investigated the antimicrobial activity of bovine lactoferrin (LF) and Cronobacter survival in commercial herbal infant teas (HITs) reconstituted with water at different temperatures. Cronobacter cells were able to grow in all reconstituted HITs at 37 or 21 °C after 6 h. A 4‐log reduction in Cronobacter was achieved by reconstituting herbal infant tea at ≥ 60 °C. LF was able to reduce Cronobacter species viability in herbal infant tea. No viable cells were recovered after 4 h at 37 °C in the presence of ≥5mg LF/mL. The bactericidal activity of LF was reduced at lower concentrations and lower temperatures. This study demonstrates that if present in reconstituted herbal infant tea, Cronobacter can grow and this may compromise the safety of these products. Therefore, addition of LF to reconstituted HIT may be a promising approach for the effective control of this organism.

Practical Application: Cronobacter species can be isolated from herbal teas, and these products are claimed to relieve gastric disturbances in infants. This study demonstrates that Cronobacter cells present in reconstituted herbal infant teas (HITs) can grow if not held at acceptable temperatures. It was shown that reconstitution of these tea formulas with ≥ 60 °C water reduced the potential risk from Cronobacter. Furthermore, use of lactoferrin (LF) may be a promising approach for effective control of these organisms in HIT held at nonrefrigeration temperatures (10 to 37 °C) for short periods.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Water Vapor Sorption Isotherms and Mechanical Properties of Selected Paper‐Based Food Packaging Materials
Authors: Rhim Jong‐Whan , Lee Jun Ho
Published: October 2009

ABSTRACT:  Adsorption isotherms of 3 selected paper‐based packaging materials, that is, vegetable parchment (VP) paper, Kraft paper, and solid‐bleached‐sulfate (SBS) paperboard, were determined at 3 different temperatures (25, 40, and 50 °C). The GAB isotherm model was found to fit adequately for describing experimental adsorption isotherm data for the paper samples. The monolayer moisture content of the paper samples decreased with increase in temperature, which is in the range of 0.0345 to 0.0246, 0.0301 to 0.0238, and 0.0318 to 0.0243 g water/g solid for the MG paper, the Kraft paper, and the SBS paperboard, respectively. The net isosteric heats of sorption (qst) for the paper samples decreased exponentially with increase in moisture content after reaching the maximum values of 18.51, 27.39, and 26.80 kJ/mol for the VP paper, the Kraft paper, and the SBS paperboard, respectively, at low‐moisture content. The differential enthalpy and entropy of 3 paper samples showed compensation phenomenon with the isokinetic temperature of 399.7 K indicating that water vapor had been adsorbed onto the paper samples with the same mechanism. Depending on the paper material, tensile strength of paper samples was affected by moisture content.