bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colour evaluation of a phycobiliprotein‐rich extract obtained from Nostoc PCC9205 in acidic solutions and yogurt
Authors: Moreira Isabela de O , Passos Thaís S , Chiapinni Claudete , Silveira Gabrielle K , Souza Joana CM , Coca‐Vellarde Luis Guillermo , Deliza Rosires , de Lima Araújo Kátia G
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Phycobiliproteins are coloured proteins produced by cyanobacteria, which have several applications because of their colour properties. However, there is no available information about the colour stability of phycobiliproteins from Nostoc sp. in food systems. The aim of this work was to study the colour stability of a purple‐coloured phycobiliprotein‐rich extract from the cyanobacterium Nostoc PCC9205 in acidic solutions and yogurt.

RESULTS: Variations of pH for Nostoc PCC9205 extract have shown stability for the L* (lightness) and a* (redness) indexes in the range 1.0–7.0. The b* index (blueness), however, increased at pH values below 4.0, indicating loss of the blue colour. The Nostoc PCC9205 extract was used as colorant in yogurt (pH 4.17) stored for 60 days. Instrumental colour analysis showed no changes for the L* and a* indexes during storage, whereas the b* index changed after 20 days of storage. A multiple comparison test showed colour instability after 20 days of storage. A hedonic scale test performed on the 60th day of storage showed acceptability of the product.

CONCLUSIONS: The red component of the phycobiliprotein‐rich extract from Nostoc PCC9205 presented an improved stability in acidic media and yogurt compared with the blue component of this extract. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
α‐Amylase inhibitors from an Indonesian medicinal herb, Phyllanthus urinaria
Authors: Gunawan‐Puteri Maria DPT , Kato Eisuke , Kawabata Jun
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus and associated diseases are an increasing problem around the world. One of the hyperglycemic remedies is glucose absorption reduction by suppressing carbohydrate digestion due to utilization of α‐amylase inhibitors.

RESULTS: Prospective herbs were analyzed by in vitro enzyme assay to evaluate their inhibitory activity against porcine pancreatic amylase (PPA), and it was found that Phyllanthus urinaria and three other herbs to showed a potent inhibitory activity. A 50% aqueous methanol‐soluble extract of the leaves of P. urinaria was chromatographed using a silica gel column. The active fractions were further purified by preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography to isolate active principles against PPA. Structural determination revealed that these isolated compounds were gallic acid, corilagin, and macatannin B, and showed mild activity against PPA (activity in 1 mmol L−1 concentration: 23%, 21%, 33%, respectively).

CONCLUSION: P. urinaria extracts show inhibitory activity against PPA. This activity, together with the information on isolated compounds, may benefit further exploration of P. urinaria utilization in the management of borderline diabetes patients. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Starch determination, amylose content and susceptibility to in vitro amylolysis in flours from the roots of 25 cassava varieties
Authors: Mejía‐Agüero Luisa Elena , Galeno Florangel , Hernández‐Hernández Oswaldo , Matehus Juan , Tovar Juscelino
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Cassava cultivars are classified following different criteria, such as cyanogenic glucoside content or starch content. Here, flours from the roots of 25 cassava varieties cultivated simultaneously in a single plantation, were characterized in terms of starch content (SC), amylose content (AC), α‐amylolysis index (AI) and gel formation ability. Resistant starch content (RS) was measured in 10 of the samples.

RESULTS: Cassava flours exhibited high SC, low AC and low AI values, with differences among varieties. Cluster analysis based on these parameters divided the cultivars in four groups differing mainly in SC and AC. AI and AC were inversely correlated (r = − 0.59, P < 0.05) in 18 of the cultivars, suggesting AC as an important factor governing the susceptibility to enzymatic hydrolysis of starch in raw cassava. Differences in susceptibility to amylolysis, assessed by RS, were also recorded in the sample subset analyzed. Most flours yielded pastes or gels upon heating and cooling. Gels differed in their subjective grade of firmness, but none exhibited syneresis, confirming the low retrogradation proclivity of cassava starch.

CONCLUSION: Some differences were found among cassava samples, which may be ascribed to inter‐cultivar variation. This information may have application in further agronomic studies or for developing industrial uses for this crop. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Response of soil organic carbon mineralization in typical Karst soils following the addition of 14C‐labeled rice straw and CaCO3
Authors: Hu Lening , Su Yirong , He Xunyang , Wu Jinshui , Zheng Hua , Li Yang , Wang Aihua
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Organic substrates and calcium are important factors controlling organic matter turnover in Karst soils. To understand their effects on soil organic carbon (SOC) mineralization, an incubation experiment was conducted involving a control treatment (CK), the addition of a 14C‐labeled rice straw (T1), CaCO3 (T2), and both 14C‐labeled rice straw and CaCO3 (T3) to two types of Karst soils (terra fusca and rendzina) and a red soil from southwestern China.

RESULTS: Cumulative mineralization of the rice straw over 100 days in rendzina (22.96 mg kg−1) and terra fusca (23.19 mg kg−1) was higher than in the red soil (15.48 mg kg−1; P < 0.05). Cumulative mineralization of native SOC decreased following addition of 14C‐labeled rice straw in the rendzina and terra fusca but increased in the red soil (negative and positive priming effects on native SOC). The turnover times of 14C‐labeled microbial biomass C (MBC) in the red soil, terra fusca and rendzina were 71 ± 2, 243 ± 20 and 254 ± 45 days, respectively. By adding CaCO3, the accumulation of SOC was greater in the Karst soils than in the red soil.

CONCLUSION: Although the interactions between rice straw decomposition and priming effects on native SOC are not yet understood, there was considerable variation between Karst and red soils. Soil calcium was a positive factor in maintaining SOC stability. MBC from rice straws was stable in terra fusca and rendzina, whereas it was active in the red soil. The Karst soils (terra fusca and rendzina) used in this study benefited SOC accumulation. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Lipase‐catalysed production of triacylglycerols enriched in pinolenic acid at the sn‐2 position from pine nut oil
Authors: Choi Jong‐Hun , Kim Byung Hee , Hong Seung In , Kim Chong‐Tai , Kim Chul‐Jin , Kim Yangha , Kim In‐Hwan
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to produce triacylglycerols (TAGs) enriched in pinolenic acid (PLA) at the sn‐2 position using the principle of acyl migration, from the pine nut oil containing PLA esterified exclusively at the sn‐3 position.

RESULTS: Two types of lipase‐catalysed reactions, i.e. redistribution and reesterification of fatty acids, were successively performed using seven commercially available lipases as biocatalysts. Of the lipases tested, Novozym 435 and Lipozyme TL IM were effective biocatalysts for positioning PLA at the sn‐2 location. These biocatalysts were selected for further evaluation of the effects of reaction parameters, such as temperature and water content on the migration of PLA residues to the sn‐2 position and TAG content. For both lipases, a significant decrease in TAG content was observed after the lipase‐catalysed redistribution of fatty acids for both lipases. The reduced TAG content could be enhanced up to approx. 92%, through lipase‐catalysed re‐esterification of the hydrolysed fatty acids under vacuum.

CONCLUSION: TAG enriched in PLA at the sn‐2 position was synthesised from pine nut oil via lipase‐catalysed redistribution and re‐esterification of fatty acid residues using Lipozyme TL IM and Novozym 435 as biocatalysts. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficacy of ozone as a fungicidal and detoxifying agent of aflatoxins in peanuts
Authors: de Alencar Ernandes Rodrigues , Faroni Lêda Rita D'Antonino , Soares Nilda de Fátima Ferreira , da Silva Washington Azevedo , da Silva Carvalho Marta Cristina
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Peanut contamination by fungi is a concern of processors and consumers owing to the association of these micro‐organisms with quality deterioration and aflatoxin production. In this study the fungicidal and detoxifying effects of ozone on aflatoxins in peanuts was investigated. Peanut kernels were ozonated at concentrations of 13 and 21 mg L−1 for periods of 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h.

RESULTS: Ozone was effective in controlling total fungi and potentially aflatoxigenic species in peanuts, with a reduction in colony‐forming units per gram greater than 3 log cycles at the concentration of 21 mg L−1 after 96 h of exposure. A reduction in the percentage of peanuts with internal fungal populations was also observed, particularly after exposure to ozone at 21 mg L−1. A reduction in the concentrations of total aflatoxins and aflatoxin B1 of approximately 30 and 25% respectively was observed for kernels exposed to ozone at 21 mg L−1 for 96 h.

CONCLUSION: It was concluded that ozone is an important alternative for peanut detoxification because it is effective in controlling potentially aflatoxigenic fungi and also acts in the reduction of aflatoxin levels in kernels. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Bilayer Matrix Composed of Polycation/DNA Complex and Sodium Alginate Gel as a Tumor Cell Catcher
Authors: Zeng Xuan , Sun Yun‐Xia , Qu Wei , Zhuo Ren‐Xi , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: September 2011

A bilayer matrix consisting of TABP‐SS/DNA complexes and sodium alginate gel is formed via electrostatic interaction. In vitro cell adhesion, proliferation and transfection of the bilayer matrix are investigated in HepG2, HeLa and COS7 cells. Results show that this matrix can only promote tumor cell attachment and growth. Compared with normal cells, the bilayer matrix exhibits significantly higher transfection efficacy in tumor cells. Cell co‐culture competitive transfection assay shows that the cell uptake of TABP‐SS/DNA complexes is significantly enhanced in tumor cells rather than normal cells under the co‐culture competitive condition, which confirms that TABP‐SS/DNA complexes have strong tumor cell selectivity and tumor targeting transfection ability.

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High Ionic Strength Promotes the Formation of Spherical Copolymer Particles
Authors: Weber Nancy , Unterlass Miriam M. , Tauer Klaus
Published: September 2011

A comprehensive experimental study of thermally initiated styrene‐styrene sulfonate emulsion copolymerization in the presence of 15 different low‐molecular‐weight electrolytes clarifies the enormous influence of both the concentration and nature of the added salt on the outcome of the polymerization. The ionic strength (IS) has a direct influence on the styrene sulfonate content in the final copolymer and determines whether the physical state of the final reaction product is a solution or dispersion. Stable latexes have been obtained for IS as high as 18 M. Electron microscopy images show irregularly shaped clusters at low and spherical particles at high IS. The properties of the copolymer molecules and dispersion can be additionally modified by the chemical properties of the counter‐ and coions introduced with the salt.

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Diluent Induced Cyclization and Phase Separation in Polymer Networks
Authors: Dušková‐Smrčková Miroslava , Valentová Helena , Ďuračková Andrea , Dušek Karel
Published: September 2011

The effect of the presence of diluent during network formation on the gel‐point conversion, αcrit, and on the equilibrium elastic modulus was studied using polyurethane networks from star‐shaped polyols and a star‐shaped triisocyanate. The dependence of αcrit on reciprocal concentration of functional groups, 1/c0, extrapolated well for 1/c0 → 0 to the value calculated corresponding to the ring‐free system. The decrease of the equilibrium modulus and the concentration of elastically active network chains (EANC) in dependence on the volume fraction of polymerizable compounds (solids) $\phi _{2}^{0} $ was curved downwards and extrapolated to the limiting dilution of the system at which no gel was formed when the conversion of functional groups was 100%. Some samples exhibited phase separation in the form of macrosyneresis which affected $\phi _{2}^{0} $. The continuous change of gel volume as a result of phase separation was obtained by solving an integral equation respecting the thermodynamic stability of the system. The change of the concentration of EANCs obtained from equilibrium modulus was translated into the intermolecular conversion calculated using the branching theory. The intermolecular conversion depended linearly on the shift of the gel‐point conversion.
Reactive Epoxy‐CTBN Rubber Blends: Reflection of Changed Curing Mechanism in Cure Shrinkage and Phase Separation Behaviour
Authors: Pionteck Jürgen , Müller Yvonne , Häußler Liane
Published: September 2011

During curing of epoxy resins shrinkage occurs, which is caused by the formation of polymeric and crosslinked structures. We analysed this shrinkage for a system consisting of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A (DGEBA), diamino diphenyl sulfone (DDS) as hardener, and a reactive or a nonreactive rubber, with or without catalyst. The shrinkage and the phase separation behaviour strongly depend on the composition. The addition of reactive rubber and of the catalyst influences the curing mechanism and reduces the crosslinking density, which is reflected by lowered glass transition temperatures and reduced shrinkage. The reactive rubber is partially incorporated in the crosslinked epoxy phase and vice versa. In this way it is possible not only to modify the morphology‐related properties but also to control the degree of the unwanted shrinkage.
Synergistic antidyskinetic effects of topiramate and amantadine in animal models of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Kobylecki Christopher , Hill Michael P. , Crossman Alan R. , Ravenscroft Paula
Published: September 2011

L‐Dopa‐induced dyskinesia in patients with Parkinson's disease can be alleviated by amantadine, an antagonist at N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate glutamate receptors. The antiepileptic drug topiramate, which blocks α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptors, has also been shown to reduce dyskinesia. The purpose of this study was to examine the behavioral pharmacology of topiramate alone and in combination with amantadine in animal models of PD and L‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia. The effects of topiramate (5–20 mg/kg) and amantadine (5–20 mg/kg) on abnormal involuntary movements (the rat homologue of dyskinesia) and Rotarod performance were assessed alone and in combination in the 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rat following chronic L‐dopa treatment. Dyskinesia, parkinsonian disability, and “on‐time” were assessed in the MPTP‐lesioned nonhuman primate following administration of topiramate (5–20 mg/kg) and amantadine (0.1–1.0 mg/kg) alone and in combination. Topiramate and amantadine dose‐dependently reduced dyskinesia in the 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rat, whereas topiramate reduced Rotarod performance; there was no effect on parkinsonian disability in the MPTP‐lesioned nonhuman primate, in which both drugs reduced dyskinesia. Topiramate and amantadine exhibited differential antidyskinetic effects on dyskinesia elicited by the dopamine D1 receptor agonist SKF 38393 (2 mg/kg). Subthreshold doses of both drugs in combination had a synergistic effect on dyskinesia in the 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rat, with no worsening of motor performance; this effect was confirmed in the MPTP‐lesioned nonhuman primate, with a selective reduction in “bad on‐time.” These data confirm the antidyskinetic potential of topiramate and suggest that combination with low‐dose amantadine may allow better reduction of dyskinesia with no adverse motor effects. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Increases of pentraxin 3 plasma levels in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lee Ho‐Won , Choi Jihye , Suk Kyoungho
Published: September 2011

Pentraxin 3 is a prototypic long pentraxin. Pentraxin 3 is a soluble recognition receptor that is involved in innate immunity and the inflammatory response. Its expression is induced by proinflammatory signals. The aim of this study was to compare the plasma levels of pentraxin 3 in healthy subjects and patients with neurodegenerative disorders such as mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease (PD). Thirty‐nine patients with mild cognitive impairment, 75 patients with Alzheimer's disease, 66 patients with PD, and 41 healthy elderly controls were recruited for this study. We performed an extensive battery of neuropsychological tests, including a Mini–Mental Status Examination, clinical dementia rating, and the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale. A variety of clinical information was collected from the administered semistructured questionnaire. Plasma pentraxin 3 levels were measured using a specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma pentraxin 3 levels were significantly higher in the PD patients than in the patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease and in the control subjects. Plasma pentraxin 3 levels in the PD patients were correlated with activities of daily living (r = 0.368; P = .003) and motor function (r = 0.358; P = .004). Plasma pentraxin 3 levels could be a new biochemical marker for PD, and they may be associated with the severity of motor dysfunction and other clinical symptoms in PD patients. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Levetiracetam in primary orthostatic tremor: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled crossover study
Authors: Hellriegel Helge , Raethjen Jan , Deuschl G. , Volkmann Jens
Published: September 2011

Background:

In a double‐blind crossover study we evaluated the antitremor effect of a 4‐week treatment with either escalating dosages of levetiracetam or placebo in orthostatic tremor.

Methods:

Twelve patients with orthostatic tremor participated in the study. Primary end point was improvement in stance duration. Secondary end points were total track length of the sway path and tremor total power. The patients' impression of impairment was assessed by a visual analog scale and quality of life by the SF‐36.

Results:

We found no significant effect of dosage or treatment on stance duration (P = .175), total track length (P = .690), total power (P = .280), or visual analog scale (P =.735). Neither was SF‐36 differentially changed by levetiracetam or placebo (SF‐36, Physical Component Summary: P = .079; SF‐36, Mental Component Summary: P = .073). Side effects like dizziness, fatigue, or nausea were only mild to moderate.

Conclusions:

Levetiracetam is ineffective in the treatment of orthostatic tremor. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Cocoa‐rich diet prevents azoxymethane‐induced colonic preneoplastic lesions in rats by restraining oxidative stress and cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ramiro Ildefonso , Ramos Sonia , López‐Oliva Elvira , Agis‐Torres Angel , Gómez‐Juaristi Miren , Mateos Raquel , Bravo Laura , Goya Luis , Martín María Ángeles
Published: September 2011

Cocoa is a rich source of bioactive compounds with potential chemopreventive ability but up to date its effectiveness in animal models of colon carcinogenesis has not been addressed. Herein, we investigated the in vivo effect of a cocoa‐rich diet in the prevention of azoxymethane (AOM)‐induced colon cancer and the mechanisms involved. Our results showed that cocoa feeding significantly reduced AOM‐induced colonic aberrant crypt foci formation and crypt multiplicity. Oxidative imbalance in colon tissues seems to be prevented by cocoa as indicated by reduced oxidation markers levels and increased enzymatic and non‐enzymatic endogenous defences. Cocoa‐rich diet also exhibited antiproliferative effects by decreasing the levels of extracellular regulated kinases, protein kinase B and cyclin D1 together with pro‐apoptotic effects evidenced by reduced Bcl‐xL levels and increased Bax levels and caspase‐3 activity. Our findings provide the first in vivo evidence that a cocoa‐rich diet may inhibit the early stage of colon carcinogenesis probably by preventing oxidative stress and cell proliferation and by inducing apoptosis.
Recognition and uptake of free and nanoparticle‐bound betalactoglobulin – a food allergen – by human monocytes
Authors: Marengo Mauro , Bonomi Francesco , Iametti Stefania , Prinz Eva , Hempelmann Rolf , Boye Mette , Frokiaer Hanne
Published: September 2011

Scope: To improve our understanding of the interaction of food allergens with cells of the immune system, the endocytosis by human monocytes of bovine β‐lactoglobulin (BLG) and ovomucoid (OM) – two major food allergens – and human serum albumin (HSA) was studied.

Methods and results: BLG was covalently conjugated to dextran‐coated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) without affecting its structure and immunoreactivity. BLG‐conjugated MNPs were taken up by human monocytes much more efficiently than non‐conjugated MNPs, allowing easy magnetic separation of cells that had adsorbed the allergen. BLG, OM, and HSA were conjugated to MNPs also labeled with a fluorescent probe. The uptake of these materials by human monocytes was monitored through flow cytometry, and compared with fluorescent MNPs and the free fluorescently labeled proteins, confirming higher uptake of the BLG‐conjugated MNPs versus non‐conjugated MNPs. OM but not HSA conjugation to particles enhanced uptake of the MNPs. Confocal microscopy provided direct evidence of the actual internalization of BLG–MNP conjugates into the cytoplasm.

Conclusions: These results contribute to the current understanding of the interaction between food allergens and antigen‐presenting cells, and demonstrate that the BLG is readily endocytosed by monocytes both as the single protein and as a conjugate.
Parallelization of the distinct lattice spring model
Authors: Zhao Gao‐Feng , Fang Jiannong , Sun Liang , Zhao Jian
Published: September 2011

The distinct lattice spring model (DLSM) is a newly developed numerical tool for modeling rock dynamics problems, i.e. dynamic failure and wave propagation. In this paper, parallelization of DLSM is presented. With the development of parallel computing technologies in both hardware and software, parallelization of a code is becoming easier than before. There are many available choices now. In this paper, Open Multi‐Processing (OpenMP) with multicore personal computer (PC) and message passing interface (MPI) with cluster are selected as the environments to parallelize DLSM. Performances of these parallel DLSM codes are tested on different computers. It is found that the parallel DLSM code with OpenMP can reach a maximum speed‐up of 4.68× on a quad‐core PC. The parallel DLSM code with MPI can achieve a speed‐up of 40.886× when 256 CPUs are used on a cluster. At the end of this paper, a high‐resolution model with four million particles, which is too big to handle by the serial code, is simulated by using the parallel DLSM code on a cluster. It is concluded that the parallelization of DLSM is successful. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI for mouse models using automatic detection of the arterial input function
Authors: Kim Jae‐Hun , Im Geun Ho , Yang Jehoon , Choi Dongil , Lee Won Jae , Lee Jung Hee
Published: September 2011

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI (DCE‐MRI) is widely accepted for the evaluation of cancer. DCE‐MRI, a noninvasive measurement of microvessel permeability, blood volume and blood flow, is extremely useful for understanding disease mechanisms and monitoring therapeutic responses in preclinical research. For the accurate quantification of pharmacokinetic parameters using DCE‐MRI, determination of the arterial input function (AIF) from a large arterial vessel near the tumor is required. However, a manual determination of AIF in mouse MR images is often difficult because of the small spatial dimensions or the location of the tumor. In this study, we propose an algorithm for the automatic detection of AIF from mouse DCE‐MR images using Kendall's coefficient of concordance. The proposed method was tested with computer simulations and then applied to tumor‐bearing mice (n = 8). Results from computer simulations showed that the proposed algorithm is capable of categorizing simulated AIF signals according to their noise levels. We found that the resulting pharmacokinetic parameters computed from our method were comparable with those from the manual determination of AIF, with acceptable differences in Ktrans (5.14 ± 3.60%), ve (6.02 ± 3.22%), vp (5.10 ± 7.05%) and kep (5.38 ± 4.72%). The results of the current study suggest the usefulness of an automatically defined AIF using Kendall's coefficient of concordance for quantitative DCE‐MRI in mouse models for cancer evaluation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FuzMet: a fuzzy‐logic based alert prioritization engine for intrusion detection systems
Authors: Alsubhi Khalid , Aib Issam , Boutaba Raouf
Published: September 2011

Intrusion detection systems (IDSs) are designed to monitor a networked environment and generate alerts whenever abnormal activities are detected. The number of these alerts can be very large, making their evaluation by security analysts a difficult task. Management is complicated by the need to configure the different components of alert evaluation systems. In addition, IDS alert management techniques, such as clustering and correlation, suffer from involving unrelated alerts in their processes and consequently provide results that are inaccurate and difficult to manage. Thus the tuning of an IDS alert management system in order to provide optimal results remains a major challenge, which is further complicated by the large spectrum of potential attacks the system can be subject to. This paper considers the specification and configuration issues of FuzMet, a novel IDS alert management system which employs several metrics and a fuzzy‐logic based approach for scoring and prioritizing alerts. In addition, it features an alert rescoring technique that leads to a further reduction in the number of alerts. Comparative results between SNORT scores and FuzMet alert prioritization onto a real attack dataset are presented, along with a simulation‐based investigation of the optimal configuration of FuzMet. The results prove the enhanced intrusion detection accuracy brought by our system. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
HEALTH SERVICE DELIVERY: THE STATE OF GOVERNMENT–NON‐GOVERNMENT RELATIONS IN BANGLADESH
Authors: Nurul Alam S. M.
Published: September 2011

There are many examples of collaboration in Bangladesh between government and non‐governmental organisations (NGOs) in the provision of services, including health care, education, water and sanitation. This article addresses the question whether such collaboration is temporary within specific projects, or whether it has brought about structural changes in the government–NGO relationship. The focus of the article is on how collaboration has been conceived, evolved and functioned within the Urban Primary Health Care Project (UPHCP). The views of both parties in the partnership are analysed. The data indicate that NGOs tend to see the government as excessively restrictive, bureaucratic in its attitudes, with a tendency to interfere in their activities, and difficult to trust. The government tends to view NGOs as lacking in capacity, sometimes being involved in corruption and less sincere and committed to the work than it is. These differences in perceptions between the two parties undermine the development of relations based on mutual respect, trust and understanding. The article concludes that current relations with government can at best be described as ambivalent. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuroendocrine regulation of food intake
Authors: Hagan Scott , Niswender Kevin D.
Published: September 2011

Despite a global obesity epidemic suggesting that human physiology is unable to prevent unhealthy gains in body weight, ample evidence indicates that weight can be tightly regulated. Food intake regulation is complex and in this article we will present a basic endocrine feedback loop model of energy homeostasis. Next, integration of long‐term regulation with short‐term, meal specific regulation and satiety will be discussed. Finally, the role of adiposity signals in modulation of food reward will be highlighted. A basic understanding of the structure–function of these systems will inform the challenges of clinical care for those with disorders of energy balance. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 149–153. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Validated Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Method for Quantification of Total Lactones in Inula racemosa and Andrographis paniculata
Authors: Shivali Garg , Praful Lahorkar , Vijay Gadgil
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy is a technique widely used for detection and quantification of various chemical moieties. This paper describes the use of the FT‐IR spectroscopy technique for the quantification of total lactones present in Inula racemosa and Andrographis paniculata.

Objective

To validate the FT‐IR spectroscopy method for quantification of total lactones in I. racemosa and A. paniculata.

Methodology

Dried and powdered I. racemosa roots and A. paniculata plant were extracted with ethanol and dried to remove ethanol completely. The ethanol extract was analysed in a KBr pellet by FT‐IR spectroscopy. The FT‐IR spectroscopy method was validated and compared with a known spectrophotometric method for quantification of lactones in A. paniculata.

Results

By FT‐IR spectroscopy, the amount of total lactones was found to be 2.12 ± 0.47% (n = 3) in I. racemosa and 8.65 ± 0.51% (n = 3) in A. paniculata. The method showed comparable results with a known spectrophotometric method used for quantification of such lactones: 8.42 ± 0.36% (n = 3) in A. paniculata. Limits of detection and quantification for isoallantolactone were 1 µg and 10 µg respectively; for andrographolide they were 1.5 µg and 15 µg respectively. Recoveries were over 98%, with good intra‐ and interday repeatability: RSD ≤ 2%.

Conclusion

The FT‐IR spectroscopy method proved linear, accurate, precise and specific, with low limits of detection and quantification, for estimation of total lactones, and is less tedious than the UV spectrophotometric method for the compounds tested. This validated FT‐IR spectroscopy method is readily applicable for the quality control of I. racemosa and A. paniculata. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Storage Time and Conditions on the Diene Valepotriates Content of the Extract of Valeriana glechomifolia Obtained by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Müller Liz Girardi , de Andrade Salles Luisa , Sakamoto Satchie , Stein Ana Cristina , Cargnin Simone Tasca , Cassel Eduardo , Vargas Rubem Figueiró , Rates Stela Maris Kuze , von Poser Gilsane Lino
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Valepotriates (epoxy iridoid esters) represent an important group of constituents that contribute to pharmacological effects for the genus Valeriana. Storage and extraction of valepotriates is a demanding task, as these compounds are thermolabile and unstable: even when decomposition products are not formed, isovaleric acid liberation from the iridoid nucleus originate compounds with less complex substituents.

Objective

To study the influence of time and storage conditions on the diene valepotriates (valtrate, isovaltrate, acevaltrate, 1‐β‐acevaltrate, 1‐β‐aceacevaltrate) content of the Valeriana glechomifolia (native to southern Brazil), extract was obtained by supercritical fluid extraction using CO2 as the fluid (SF‐CO2).

Methodology

Above‐ground and below‐ground material of V. glechomifolia was extracted by SF‐CO2 (40 °C, 90 bar). The extract was stored under nitrogen atmosphere or solubilised in methanol. Valepotriates stability was accessed during storage at −20 °C over 8 months through reverse‐phase HPLC (mobile phase acetonitrile:water 50:50 (v/v); 254 nm).

Results

A gradual increase in valtrate levels and decrease in acevaltrate, 1‐β‐acevaltrate and 1‐β‐aceacevaltrate, concentration were observed from the first month of storage for the dry extract. However, for the methanol solubilised extract these changes occurred only after the third month and were accompanied by reduction in isovaltrate levels and formation of decomposition products.

Conclusion

SF‐CO2 showed high selectivity for valepotriates extraction. This is the first report on valepotriates molecular conversion, which was less accelerated when the extract was stored in methanol, but under this condition degradation products are also present, probably baldrinals, that are not observed in the dry extract. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrative data mining to identify novel candidate serum biomarkers for pre‐eclampsia screening
Authors: Pennings Jeroen L. A. , Kuc Sylwia , Rodenburg Wendy , Koster Maria P. H. , Schielen Peter C. J. I. , de Vries Annemieke
Published: September 2011

Objective

Pre‐eclampsia (PE) is a serious complication that affects approximately 2% of pregnant women worldwide. At present, there is no sufficiently reliable test for early detection of PE in a screening setting that would allow timely intervention. To help future experimental identification of serum biomarkers for early onset PE, we applied a data mining approach to create a set of candidate biomarkers.

Methods

We started from the disease etiology, which involves impaired trophoblast invasion into the spiral arteries. On the basis of this, we used a three‐stage filtering strategy consisting of selection of tissue‐specific genes, textmining for further gene prioritization, and identifying blood‐detectable markers.

Results

This approach resulted in 38 candidate biomarkers. These include the best three first‐trimester serum biomarkers for PE found to date LGALS13 (placental protein 13, PP13), PAPPA (pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A, PAPP‐A), and PGF (placental growth factor, PlGF), as well as five proteins previously identified as biomarker after the first‐trimester or disease onset. This substantiates the effectiveness of our approach and provides an important indication that the list will contain several new biomarkers for PE.

Conclusions

We anticipate this list can serve in prioritization of future experimental studies on serum biomarkers for early onset PE. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term treatment effects of insulin pump therapy
Authors: Garmo A , Garmo H , Ärnlöv J , Leksell J
Published: September 2011

This study was designed to examine potential long‐term effects on glycaemic control and treatment satisfaction in people with type 1 diabetes who changed from multiple daily insulin injections (MDI) to insulin pump therapy (CSII, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion).

Forty‐six patients who changed from MDI to CSII were recruited at a Swedish medical clinic. They were followed one year prior to starting CSII and four years afterwards. Repeated measurements of HbA1c were performed during follow up. Treatment satisfaction was assessed using Bradley's Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire, status version.

After initiation of CSII, reductions of HbA1c were seen after the first year (0.66 units of percent [95% Cl 0.46–0.91, p<0.001]) and after two to four years (0.65 [95% Cl 0.38–0.95, p<0.001]). Moreover, treatment satisfaction increased significantly after six months (10.0 score units [95% CI 8.0–12.0, p<0.001]) and remained at the same level after three years (10.5 score units [95% CI 8.0–13.0, p<0.001]).

It was concluded that, compared to MDI, insulin pump therapy improves glycaemic control with sustained treatment satisfaction after up to four years. Our long‐term data provide further support for CSII as an effective and well tolerated treatment regimen for patients with type 1 diabetes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons.
Metformin therapy and assessment for vitamin B12 deficiency: is it necessary?
Authors: Qureshi SA , Ainsworth A , Winocour PH
Published: September 2011

Metformin therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been recognised as a cause of vitamin B12 deficiency for at least 40 years, but routine measurement is not currently advocated in clinical guidelines. Assessment might be of particular relevance in T2DM complicated by peripheral neuropathy.

This service review examined whether serum vitamin B12 levels were measured in patients with high dose (>2g/day) and long‐term (four years) metformin treatment, in particular among those with peripheral neuropathy. We also evaluated the effectiveness of vitamin B12 replacement when levels were low.

Of 283 patients on high dose metformin for more than four years only, 70 (25%) had vitamin B12 levels checked. All of these 70 cases had peripheral neuropathy. Vitamin B12 deficiency (<150pg/ml) was recorded in 23 (33%). Where vitamin B12 levels were deficient, replacement vitamin B12 was documented in only two (2.9%) patients and improvement in neuropathic symptoms post treatment were documented in only four (5.7%) patients.

Conclusion: vitamin B12 levels were measured infrequently in T2DM, in particular among those with peripheral neuropathy. Levels were frequently low when assessed among T2DM patients with peripheral neuropathy. A record that vitamin B12 therapy was initiated was only made in a small number of cases, so the impact on peripheral neuropathy was unclear.

Recommendations: all patients with T2DM on long‐term treatment with high dose metformin should be assessed for vitamin B12 deficiency, particularly if complicated by peripheral neuropathy, and then considered for parenteral vitamin B12 replacement if deficient. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons.
Successful treatment of obesity and diabetes with incretin analogue over four years in an adult with Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Paisey RB , Bower L , Rosindale S , Lawrence C
Published: September 2011

A 36‐year‐old female diabetic patient with genetically confirmed Prader–Willi syndrome had developed weight increase and severe symptomatic hyperglycaemia despite triple oral hypoglycaemic therapies. Main meals were supervised at home and when working in day care. The addition of insulin therapy induced further weight increase and hypertension with only a small improvement in glycaemia. She suffered from a thrombotic stroke.

During rehabilitation her hyperphagia persisted and she was commenced on exenatide in addition to insulin and oral hypoglycaemic agents. Incretin analogue therapy was well tolerated after brief initial nausea. Improved glycaemia allowed insulin to be phased out after six months. General well‐being, weight, blood pressure, microalbuminuria, glycosylated haemoglobin, and serum lipids all showed sustained improvement. Despite concerns about hyperphagia and resultant severe vomiting in Prader–Willi syndrome, our patient responded safely to incretin analogue therapy. Weight loss and metabolic improvements have been sustained for four years. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons.
Morphology and rheological behavior of polylactic acid/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Singh Satpal , Ghosh Anup K. , Maiti Saurindra N. , Raha Sumanta , Gupta Rahul K. , Bhattacharya Satinath
Published: September 2011

The investigated rheological properties of polylactic acid (PLA)/clay nanocomposite are important to understand the effect of organically modified layered silicates (OMLS) (clay) on processing as well as the change in viscoelastic properties due to polymer filler interaction. The time sweep result revealed that the thermal stability improved with addition of nanoclay due to the formation of percolating network structure. It was also supported by multi wave ramp test. The frequency sweep analysis showed that the dynamic moduli increased with addition of nanoclay. Viscoelastic spectra (DMTA) showed an increase of the storage and loss moduli with the increase in the clay content. Wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to determine the degree of intercalation, or exfoliation and nanostructure level of clay dispersion on PLA nanocomposites. XRD data demonstrated complete exfoliation at lower nanoclay content. On increasing the nanoclay content, exfoliated and partially intercalated structures were obtained. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
A study on the fabrication of rounded patterns by spin coating of photoresist on silicon substrate with microstructures
Authors: Yoon Jae Sung , Yoo Yeong‐Eun , Choi Doo‐Sun
Published: September 2011

This article describes a spin coating process for making micropatterns with curved surfaces. Liquid photoresist was used to compensate etched profile of microchannels on a silicon substrate. Due to the surface tension of liquid, curved surfaces or slopes could be obtained by coating photoresist on the rectangular microstructures. The results depend on properties of photoresist, geometry of microstructures and coating conditions. In this study, revolution speed of spin coater is a major coating condition. And tests were done for various microchannels with different size and direction. After coating the photoresist layer, it was heated on a hot plate so that its shape could be fixed. The final profiles of curved structures were examined with a polymer replica which was applied on the photoresist surface. The profile was controlled by changing revolution speed in spin coating process, but it also depended on the size and direction of microchannels. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Temperature‐controlled light‐emitting diode lamp for photovoltaic rural applications
Authors: Gago‐Calderón Alfonso , Fernández‐Ramos José , Narvarte Luis
Published: September 2011

In recent years, interest in light‐emitting diode (LED) lighting has been growing because of its high efficacy, lifetime and ruggedness. This paper proposes a better adaptation of LED lamps to the technical requirements of photovoltaic lighting domestic systems, whose main quality criteria are reliability and that behave as voltage power supplies. As the key element of reliability in LED lamps is temperature, a solution is proposed for driving LED lamps using voltage sources, such as photovoltaic system batteries, with a control architecture based on pulse width modulation signal that regulates the current applied according to the LED lamp temperature. A prototype of the LED lamp has been implemented and tested to show its good performance at different temperatures and at different battery voltages. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid synthesis of poly(HPA‐co‐VeoVa 10) amphiphilic gels toward removal of toxic solvents via plasma‐ignited frontal polymerization
Authors: Yu Chao , Zhou Jin , Wang Cai‐feng , Chen Li , Chen Su
Published: September 2011

Atmospheric air plasma was created and applied in the frontal polymerization (FP) of fabricating poly(HPA‐co‐VeoVa 10) amphiphilic gels (HPA = 2‐hydroxypropyl acrylate, VeoVa 10 = vinyl versatate) with enhanced physicochemical properties. In plasma‐ignited frontal polymerization (PIFP), once ignited by air plasma, no further energy or treatment was required for the following polymerization. In this system, the comparison between PIFP and thermal frontal polymerization (TFP) was conducted and observed that PIFP and TFP differ considerably in terms of swelling capacity, morphology and component distribution of the products. This finding is of great importance that the simultaneous generation of active radicals in the initial stage can spread throughout reactant and anchor on the synthetic polymer with the assistance of FP. More interestingly, the PIFP‐synthesized copolymer possesses remarkable selective absorption towards organic solvents, which can be facilely manipulated by varying the weight ratios of HPA/VeoVa 10. Obviously, these polymer products could serve as an “organic solvent scavenger” in the field of industrial wastewater treatment. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Comments on “An Essay on Contact Angle Measurements” – An Illustration of the Respective Influence of Droplet Deposition and Measurement Parameters
Authors: Kietzig Anne‐Marie
Published: September 2011

This commentary is part of the discussion on the use and misuse of contact angle measurements (CAM). Herein, I address the particular challenges of measuring contact angles on non‐wetting surfaces. The importance of carefully carrying out CAM is outlined once again. The influence of experimental parameters on the measured contact angles and hysteresis is explained to illustrate the importance of communicating all experimental settings and conditions (such as pressure, droplet volume, dispense rate, time, relative humidity, and ambient temperature), in order to draw valid conclusions on the dominating wetting state from these measurements.
Experimental Determination of Liquid Spray Drop Morphology Qualitative Information from Laser‐Diffraction Measurements
Authors: Dumouchel Christophe , Grout Sébastien , Leroux Bertrand , Paubel Xavier
Published: September 2011

The Laser‐Diffraction Technique (LDT) based on the analysis of the light diffraction pattern forwardly scattered by droplets going through a laser optical probe, reports a drop‐diameter distribution. As reported by previous investigations this drop‐diameter distribution is sensitive to the shape of the drops and LDT measures an equivalent‐diameter whose definition has not been established so far. The experimental investigation presented in this paper tackles this very point. It has been motivated by the recent development of the surface‐scale distribution to characterize liquid drops. Being measured from Image Analysis Technique (IAT), the scale distribution contains information on the shape of the drops of the spray. The experimental work consists in analyzing a series of sprays with LDT and IAT to measure the surface‐based scale distribution. It is found that the virtual spray composed of spherical drops and whose diameter distribution is the one measured by the LDT has the same scale distribution as the actual spray. This result allows a relationship between the mean‐diameter series and the mean‐scale series to be established. This relationship is satisfied by the measurements and indicates that information on the droplet shape is available in the mean‐diameter series reported by the LDT. The analysis of the LDT mean‐diameter series confirms this point. The results reported by this experimental work participate to a better identification of the distribution measured by the LDT.
Long‐acting bronchodilators: their properties and place in treatment
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Walker Paul
Published: September 2011

Steve Chaplin and Dr Paul Walker provide an overview of the properties of long‐acting bronchodilators and their current recommended place in treating asthma and COPD. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd