bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlations between Calcineurin Phosphatase Inhibition and Cyclosporine Metabolites Concentrations in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Implications for Immunoassays
Authors: Karamperis Nikolaos , Koefoed‐Nielsen Pernille Bundgaard , Brahe Pia , Højskov Carsten , Egfjord Martin , Poulsen Jørgen Hjelm , Jørgensen Kaj Anker
Published: May 2006

Abstract:Cyclosporine exhibits a wide spectrum of metabolites that vary considerably in the extent to which they interfere with the various parent drug monitoring immunoassays. There is no consensus regarding the clinical significance of metabolites. Cyclosporine exerts its immunosuppressive action by inhibiting the enzyme calcineurin phosphatase. Determination of the enzyme's activity is one of the most promising pharmacodynamic markers. It is unknown how calcineurin phosphatase inhibition correlates with various cyclosporine monitoring assays and what is the potential impact of metabolites in this perspective? The aim of the present study was to determine the concentration of cyclosporine (by means of three different assay methods) and the four most significant metabolites (AM1, AM4N, AM9, and AM1C) in relation to calcineurin phosphatase inhibition. Twelve randomly selected cyclosporine‐treated renal transplant patients were included in the study. Blood samples were drawn before, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 12 hr after oral intake of cyclosporine. Parent drug and metabolites were determined by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MSMS). Additionally, cyclosporine concentration was determined by the enzyme multiplied immunoassay technique (EMIT) and by the polyclonal fluorescence polarization immunoassay (pFPIA). Calcineurin phosphatase activity was measured by its ability to dephosphorylate a previously phosphorylated 19‐amino acid peptide. We found that calcineurin phosphatase inhibition correlates strongly with parent cyclosporine metabolites concentrations determined by all three assay methods. Determination methods that took metabolites into consideration exhibit stronger correlations with calcineurin phosphatase inhibition (sum of cyclosporin plus metabolites r=−0.93, LC/MSMS; pFPIA r=−0.94, P≤0.001), compared with methods that measure exclusively the parent drug (EMIT: −0.84; LC/MS‐MS: −0.81, P≤0.05). Our results indicate that the immunosuppressive role of cyclosporines metabolites should not be considered valuelessper se. Further research is required in order to verify the potential clinical importance of our observations.
Airway Selectivity: An Update of Pharmacokinetic Factors Affecting Local and Systemic Disposition of Inhaled Steroids
Authors: Edsbäcker Staffan , Johansson Carl‐Johan
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Topical corticosteroids remain the most efficacious single treatment for asthma and rhinitis, despite the emergence of newer drugs in recent years. The antiinflammatory properties of these products, combined with the targeting of formulations and optimization of the intrinsic pharmacokinetic features of the newer corticosteroid molecules has resulted in substantially improved airway selectivity. This review sets out to summarize the pharmacokinetic properties of inhaled corticosteroids that are important for the achievement of high levels of airway selectivity, with additional focus on the use of prodrugs/softdrugs relative to those of conventional corticosteroid molecules, mechanisms (such as esterification) by which retention at the target site is achieved while minimizing systemic exposure, and the role of plasma protein binding.
Steady State Pharmacokinetics of Oral Treatment with 13‐cis‐Retinoic Acid or all‐trans‐Retinoic Acid in Male and Female Adult Rats
Authors: Ferguson Sherry A. , Siitonen Paul H. , Cisneros F. Javier , Gough Bobby , Young John F.
Published: May 2006

Abstract:Male and female Sprague‐Dawley rats were orally gavaged with 13‐cis‐retinoic acid (7.5 or 15 mg/kg) or all‐trans‐retinoic acid (10 or 15 mg/kg) for 7 consecutive days. Blood was collected out to 8 hr after the last gavage on day 7. HPLC serum concentrations of 13‐cis‐retinoic acid, all‐trans‐retinoic acid, and 13‐cis‐4‐oxo‐retinoic acid were subjected to model independent pharmacokinetic analyses. Peak serum levels of 563 to 1640 ng/ml were observed for rats treated with 13‐cis‐retinoic acid at 1.5–2 hr after gavage. Peak serum levels of 183 to 267 ng/ml at 1.5 hr after gavage were observed for all‐trans‐retinoic acids. The elimination half‐life of 13‐cis‐retinoic acid was about 1.5 hr while the elimination half‐life of all‐trans‐retinoic acid was slightly longer. There were no sex differences for any parameter. Serum levels resulting from the 7.5 mg/kg 13‐cis‐retinoic acid were similar to those of human Accutane®users.
Pharmacodynamics of a New Ophthalmic Mydriatic Insert in Healthy Volunteers: Potential Alternative as Drug Delivery System Prior to Cataract Surgery*
Authors: Mouly Stéphane , Mahé Isabelle , Haouchine Belkacem , Sanson‐le‐Pors Marie‐José , Blain Patrick , Tillet Yves , Dewailly Jean , Mongold Jean‐Jacques , Bergmann Jean‐François
Published: May 2006

Abstract:Cataract surgery requires a satisfactory degree of mydriasis throughout the entire operation. A phase I, open‐labelled, randomised, cross‐over trial was conducted in 18 healthy volunteers to compare mydriasis obtained with subsequent administration of phenylephrine 10% and tropicamide 0.5% eyedrops or a new insoluble‐matrix retropalpebral ophthalmic insert containing 5.38 mg phenylephrine and 0.28 mg tropicamide. Phenylephrine serum concentrations were measured over 6 hr following each treatment administration. Secondary end‐points included cardiovascular, general and local tolerance and quantification of bacterial colonisation of the conjunctiva and the cultured insert, respectively. When normalized to the pupil diameter after conventional treatment, the diameter achieved with the insert was 1.13 (95% confidence interval, 0.94–1.48, P=0.38). Moreover, standard eye drops provided faster effective mydriasis than the insert, starting 30 min. as compared to 90 min. upon treatment administration (P<0.01, repeated‐measures ANOVA). Phenylephrine concentrations remained almost undetectable for both treatments and no change in heart rate or blood pressure were observed throughout the study. Only three superficial punctuate keratitis were diagnosed with the insert and two with the eye drops. No significant bacterial contamination of conjunctiva swab and cultured insert was observed. The new insoluble‐matrix retropalpebral ophthalmic mydriatic insert produced similar but delayed effective and prolonged mydriasis as compared to the standard delivery system. In addition to its potential usefulness in patients undergoing cataract surgery, such new ophthalmic delivery system may be an advantage in children who need to undergo fundus photography due to the single administration and excellent tolerance as well.
Effect of Rifampicin on the Pharmacokinetics of Atenolol
Authors: Lilja Jari J. , Juntti‐Patinen Laura , Neuvonen Pertti J.
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Also poorly metabolized drugs, including certain β‐blocking agents, can be susceptible to drug interactions caused by transporter inhibitors and inducers. Thus, our aim was to investigate the effect of rifampicin on the pharmacokinetics of atenolol in healthy people. In a randomized cross‐over study with two phases, nine healthy volunteers received a 5‐day pretreatment with rifampicin (600 mg daily) or placebo. On day 6, a single 100 mg dose of atenolol was administered orally. The plasma concentrations of atenolol and its excretion into urine were measured up to 33 hr after dosing. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures and heart rate were recorded in a sitting position before the intake of atenolol and 2, 4, 6, and 10 hr later. During the rifampicin phase, the mean area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC0–∞) of atenolol was decreased to 81% and renal clearance increased to 109% of the placebo phase values (P<0.05). Rifampicin pretreatment reduced, albeit not statistically significantly, also the peak plasma concentration (Cmax), AUC0–33 hr, and amount of atenolol excreted to 85% (P=0.139), 81% (P=0.053), and 86% (P=0.12) of the respective placebo phase values. The average heart rate and diastolic blood pressure were slightly higher during the rifampicin phase compared with the placebo phase (P<0.05). To conclude, although the inducing effect of rifampicin may not have been at its maximum by day 6, rifampicin has only a minor effect on the pharmacokinetics of atenolol evidenced by a slight reduction in its bioavailability.
Preventive Effects of Quercetin against Benzo[a]pyrene‐Induced DNA Damages and Pulmonary Precancerous Pathologic Changes in Mice
Authors: Jin Nian‐zu , Zhu Yan‐ping , Zhou Jian‐wei , Mao Li , Zhao Ren‐cheng , Fang Tai‐hui , Wang Xin‐ru
Published: May 2006

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive effects of quercetin against benzo[a]pyrene‐induced blood lymphocyte DNA damages and pulmonary precancerous pathologic changes in mice, and to reveal the potential mechanism behind these effects. In this study, mice in quercetin‐treated groups were given quercetin for 90 days. After one week of treatment, mice in the quercetin‐treated groups and the positive control group received a single intraperitoneal dose of benzo[a]pyrene (100 mg/kg body weight). The results of single cell gel electrophoresis assay showed that the average lengths of the comet cell tail and DNA damage in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of mice induced by benzo[a]pyrene decreased significantly as a result of quercetin treatment dose‐dependently. Light microscopic examination showed that the degrees of pulmonary precancerous pathologic changes in the quercetin‐treated groups decreased significantly compared with those in the positive control group. Meanwhile, the cytochrome P4501A1‐linked 7‐ethoxyresorufin O‐dealkylase activities in lung microsomes of mice decreased as the dose of quercetin increased. The results of this in vivo study revealed that quercetin had a significant preventive effect on benzo[a]pyrene‐induced DNA damage, and had a potential chemopreventive effect on the carcinogenesis of lung cancer induced by benzo[a]pyrene. The mechanism of these effects of quercetin could be related to the inhibition of cytochrome P4501A1 activity.
Natural Oils Affect the Human Skin Integrity and the Percutaneous Penetration of Benzoic Acid Dose‐Dependently
Authors: Nielsen Jesper B.
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Natural oils are extensively used in cosmetics and as treatment for a growing number of more or less specific ailments. Skin irritation and cases of allergy have repeatedly been described in the literature following exposure to these oils. The present study evaluated the extent to which three natural oils (eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil) would affect the skin integrity and the percutaneous penetration of benzoic acid when applied topically in relevant concentrations. An experimental in vitro model using static diffusion cells mounted with human breast or abdominal skin was applied. The three natural oils decreased the skin integrity dose‐dependently. Concomitant dermal exposure to low concentrations of peppermint oil reduced the percutaneous penetration of benzoic acid. The present study lends support to the notion that low concentrations of peppermint oil may act protective against percutaneous penetration of some chemicals, whereas higher concentrations may decrease the integrity of the dermal barrier.
Matrix Metalloproteinase‐9 Activity in Plasma Correlates with Plasma and Whole Blood Lead Concentrations
Authors: Barbosa Fernando , Gerlach Fernando , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes involved in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 have been implicated in a variety of pathological conditions including cardiovascular and neoplastic diseases, and recent studies have shown that circulating concentrations of MMP‐9 may be a marker helping in the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular and neoplastic diseases. We investigated whether there is an association between plasma MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activities and the concentrations of lead in whole blood (blood Pb) or plasma (plasma Pb) from 40 lead‐exposed persons (22 men and 18 women). Plasma Pb was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) and blood Pb by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF‐AAS). Plasma MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activities were measured by gelatin zymography. We found a significant correlation between pro‐MMP‐9 activity in plasma and blood Pb (r=0.454; P=0.003), and between pro‐MMP‐9 activity in plasma and plasma Pb (r=0.312; P=0.049). No significant correlations were found between blood Pb or plasma Pb and plasma MMP‐2. The association between pro‐MMP‐9 activity in plasma and both blood Pb and plasma Pb concentrations suggests a mechanism through which low lead exposure may increase the susceptibility to cardiovascular and neoplastic diseases. A causal relationship, however, remains to be proved.
Lipids, Lipoproteins, Apolipoproteins, Selected Trace Elements and Minerals in the Serum of Children on Valproic Acid Monotherapy
Authors: Karikas George A. , Schulpis Kleopatra H. , Bartzeliotou Anastasia , Karakonstantakis Theodore , Georgala Sophia , Kanavaki Ino , Demetriou Elizabeth , Papassotiriou Ioannis
Published: May 2006

Abstract: We evaluated the serum levels of lipids, lipoproteins, apolipoproteins, along with a number of minerals and trace elements such as Ca, Mg, Cu and Zn in a group of children after 6 months of valproic acid monotherapy. Thirty patients with seizures, mean age, 9.8±2.6 years and 79 healthy children (controls), mean age, 10.9±3.2 years, formed the two styd groups. The patient group was treated with valproic acid (27.9±14.8 mg/kg/24 hr). Patients underwent clinical and laboratory evaluations including liver function tests, NH3, lipid, mineral and selected trace element levels before and after six months on valproic acid treatment, whereas controls only one evaluation. Liver function data and NH3 levels were found to be elevated in the group of patients, whereas albumin level was reduced. Triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL‐C, apolipoprotein (ApoA)‐1, Apo B and Ca concentrations were found relative to control values, LDL‐C, VLDL‐C, Mg, Cu, Zn, were measured significantly altered (P<0.0001) compared to controls. The ratios ApoA‐1/ApoB, HDL‐C/ApoA‐1, LDL‐C/Apo B, which were closely related to the size of LDL particles, where correlated with Zn/Cu (P<0.001). Serum lipid profile, especially LDL size, indirectly evaluated for the first time and metal levels were found to be significantly changed, after six months on valproic acid monotherapy, suggesting a possible risk of developing coronary heart disease. Since valproic acid is a long‐term treatment, it could be recommended that the incorporation of measurements of lipids, lipoproteins, apolipoproteins and trace elements in the “follow up” laboratory testing could be a preventive measure.
Cardioprotective Effects of Bosentan, a Mixed Endothelin Type A and B Receptor Antagonist, during Myocardial Ischaemia and Reperfusion in Rats
Authors: Singh Arya Dharamvir , Amit Saxena , Kumar Ojha Shreesh , Rajan Mittal , Mukesh Nandave
Published: May 2006

Abstract: The present study evaluated the cardioprotective potential of bosentan, a mixed endothelin type A and B receptor antagonist, in the myocardial ischaemia‐reperfusion model of myocardial infarction. Adult male wistar rats (175–225 g) were divided into three groups: sham operated, non‐myocardial ischaemia‐reperfusion (SHAM); saline‐treated myocardial ischaemia‐reperfusion control (CON); bosentan‐treated myocardial ischaemia‐reperfusion (BOS). All animals were anaesthetized and subjected to 40 min. occlusion of left anterior descending coronary artery followed by 120 min. of reperfusion. Saline or drug was administered to the CON or BOS group, respectively, 20 min. after the left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion. Haemodynamic parameters viz. systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure and heart rate were recorded throughout the experimental period. Hearts were subsequently excised and processed for histopathological and infarct size evaluation and for biochemical estimation of cardiac specific enzyme creatine kinase‐MB (CK‐MB) and myocardial malondialdehyde, a lipid peroxidation marker. Myocardial ischaemic reperfusion resulted in severe myocardial injury, depression of haemodynamic function, significant increase in malondialdehyde levels and decline in CK‐MB isoenzyme activity in the heart tissue. Administration of bosentan (3 mg/kg, intravenously) slightly improved haemodynamic effects, decreased myocardial oxygen consumption, significantly (P<0.01) attenuated the rise in malondialdehyde levels and loss of myocardial CK‐MB isoenzyme activity compared to the CON group, whereas bosentan administration significantly reduced the percentage area of fiber loss and infarct area. It is therefore concluded that endothelin‐1 may mediate myocardial damage produced by ischaemia and reperfusion and that dual blockade of endothelinA and endothelinB receptors may have potential as a mode of therapy for myocardial infarction.
Ginsenoside 20(S)‐Protopanaxadiol Inhibits the Proliferation and Invasion of Human Fibrosarcoma HT1080 Cells
Authors: Li Gang , Wang Zhenhua , Sun Yaxuan , Liu Ke , Wang Ziren
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Ginsenoside 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol, one of metabolites of ginseng saponins, has been well characterized to possess the pleiotropic anticancer capabilities in several cancer cell lines. The object of this study was to investigate the effects of ginsenoside 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol on the invasion in vitro and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 in human fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells in absence of cytotoxicity. Our results showed that ginsenoside 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol exerted a concentration‐dependent inhibitory effect on the proliferation of HT1080 cells (IC50 was 76.78±2.24 μM, 48 hr). Treatment with 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol significantly declined the invasive capacity of HT1080 cells compared to the control cells (P<0.01) in the in vitro invasion assay. Further analysis with gelatin zymography and western blotting revealed that both the activity and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 decreased dramatically in a concentration‐dependent manner (P<0.01). Taken together, these results indicated that ginsenoside 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol is able to inhibit the invasiveness of HT1080 cells significantly in vitro and this action may be primarily due to down‐regulating the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2. Ginsenoside 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol, a metabolite of ginseng, may be applied as a potential therapeutic agent in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
Application of Genomics in Preclinical Drug Safety Evaluation
Authors: Lord Peter G. , Nie Alex , McMillian Michael
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Understanding the response of biological systems to xenobiotics is fundamental to the evaluation of drug safety. Toxicologists have traditionally gathered pathological, morphological, chemical and biochemical information from in vivo studies of preclinical species in order to assess drug safety and to determine how new drugs can be safely administered to the human patient population. In recent years the emerging “‐omics” technologies have been developed and integrated into preclinical studies in order to better assess drug safety by gaining information on the cellular and molecular events underlying adverse drug reactions. Genomics approaches in particular have become readily available and are being applied in several stages of drug development. The burgeoning literature on what has become known as “toxicogenomics” has for the most part highlighted successful applications of gene expression profiling in predictive toxicology, enabling decisions to be made on the developability of a compound early in the drug development process. It is also becoming apparent that toxicogenomic approaches are good starting points to develop experiments designed to gain a mechanistic insight into drug toxicities within and across species. Gene expression arrays permit the measurement of responses of essentially all the genes in the entire genome to be monitored, and knowledge of the function of the genes affected can identify the potential mechanisms to then be confirmed using conventional biochemical, toxicological and pathological approaches. As toxicologists put these technologies into practice they build up a knowledge base to better characterize toxicities at the molecular level and to make the search for much needed, novel biomarkers of toxicity more achievable.
A Strategy for Optimizing Item‐Pool Management
Authors: Ariel Adelaide , Van Der Linden Wim J. , Veldkamp Bernard P.
Published: May 2006

Item‐pool management requires a balancing act between the input of new items into the pool and the output of tests assembled from it. A strategy for optimizing item‐pool management is presented that is based on the idea of a periodic update of an optimal blueprint for the item pool to tune item production to test assembly. A simulation study with scenarios involving different levels of quality of the initial item pool, item writing, and management for a previous item pool from the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) showed that good item‐pool management had about the same main effects on the item‐writing costs and the number of feasible tests as good item writing, but the two factors showed strong interaction effects.
Validation of Group Domain Score Estimates Using a Test of Domain
Authors: Pommerich Mary
Published: May 2006

Domain scores have been proposed as a user‐friendly way of providing instructional feedback about examinees' skills. Domain performance typically cannot be measured directly; instead, scores must be estimated using available information. Simulation studies suggest that IRT‐based methods yield accurate group domain score estimates. Because simulations can represent best‐case scenarios for methodology, it is important to verify results with a real data application. This study administered a domain of elementary algebra (EA) items created from operational test forms. An IRT‐based group‐level domain score was estimated from responses to a subset of taken items (comprised of EA items from a single operational form) and compared to the actual observed domain score. Domain item parameters were calibrated both using item responses from the special study and from national operational administrations of the items. The accuracy of the domain score estimates were evaluated within schools and across school sizes for each set of parameters. The IRT‐based domain score estimates typically were closer to the actual domain score than observed performance on the EA items from the single form. Previously simulated findings for the IRT‐based domain score estimation procedure were supported by the results of the real data application.
An Application of Score Equity Assessment: Invariance of Linkage of New SAT® to Old SAT Across Gender Groups
Authors: Liu Jinghua , Cahn Miriam F. , Dorans Neil J.
Published: May 2006

The College Board's SAT® data are used to illustrate how the score equity assessment (SEA) can help inform the program about equatability. SEA is used to examine whether the content change(s) to the revised new SAT result in differential linking functions across gender groups. Results of population sensitivity analyses are reported on the linkage of the new SAT critical reading (CR) prototype to an old SAT verbal (OV). Based on the criteria used in this study, population invariance was achieved with respect to gender groups.
Definition and Measurement of Selection Bias: From Constant Ratio to Constant Difference
Authors: Cahan Sorel , Gamliel Eyal
Published: May 2006

Despite its intuitive appeal and popularity, Thorndike's constant ratio (CR) model for unbiased selection is inherently inconsistent in n‐free selection. Satisfaction of the condition for unbiased selection, when formulated in terms of success/acceptance probabilities, usually precludes satisfaction by the converse probabilities of rejection/failure, and vice versa. This paper suggests that this inconsistency is unavoidable due to the (negative) linear relation between “percent accepted” (P) and “percent rejected” (1– P), which does not preserve ratios and, thus, invalidates the conceptualization and measurement of selection bias in ratio terms. Therefore, we propose to substitute the CR model with a constant difference (CD) model for the definition and measurement of selection bias, and show the latter's underlying rationale and its applicability in both n‐free and fixed‐n selection.
Application of the Bi‐Factor Multidimensional Item Response Theory Model to Testlet‐Based Tests
Authors: DeMars Christine E.
Published: May 2006

Four item response theory (IRT) models were compared using data from tests where multiple items were grouped into testlets focused on a common stimulus. In the bi‐factor model each item was treated as a function of a primary trait plus a nuisance trait due to the testlet; in the testlet‐effects model the slopes in the direction of the testlet traits were constrained within each testlet to be proportional to the slope in the direction of the primary trait; in the polytomous model the item scores were summed into a single score for each testlet; and in the independent‐items model the testlet structure was ignored. Using the simulated data, reliability was overestimated somewhat by the independent‐items model when the items were not independent within testlets. Under these nonindependent conditions, the independent‐items model also yielded greater root mean square error (RMSE) for item difficulty and underestimated the item slopes. When the items within testlets were instead generated to be independent, the bi‐factor model yielded somewhat higher RMSE in difficulty and slope. Similar differences between the models were illustrated with real data.
FOUNDING A NEW SCIENCE: MIND GENOMICS
Authors: MOSKOWITZ HOWARD R. , GOFMAN ALEX , BECKLEY JACQUELINE , ASHMAN HOLLIS
Published: May 2006

We present in this article our vision for a new science, modeled on the emerging science of genomics and the technology of informatics. Our goal in this new science is to better understand how people react to ideas in a formal and structured way, using the principles of stimulus–response (from experimental psychology), conjoint analysis (from consumer research and statistics), Internet‐based testing (from marketing research) and multiple tests to identify patterns of mind‐sets (patterned after genomics). We show how this formal approach can then be used to construct new, innovative ideas in business. We demonstrate the approach using the development of new ideas for an electronic color palette for cosmetic products to be used by consumers.
CONFIDENCE ELLIPSES APPLIED TO THE COMPARISON OF SENSORY PROFILES
Authors: LÊ SÉBASTIEN , HUSSON FRANÇOIS , PAGÈS JÉRÔME
Published: May 2006

Our experiment involved seven panels and six chocolates – five dark chocolates and one milk chocolate. The aim of the study was to compare the sensory profiles of the chocolates. A natural question to ask is “Did the panelists detect any differences among the five dark chocolates or did they systematically contrast them with the milk chocolate?” The scatter plot of the chocolates obtained by principal component analysis was useless to answer that question, because of the proximity of the points. To overcome that, we used confidence ellipses calculated using bootstrap.

The originality of the study lies in the fact that we applied those ellipses to hierarchical multiple factor analysis (HMFA): among the seven panels, six were composed of trained professionals and the last one was composed of untrained students, and through that method, we managed to compare the two types of panels and balance the role of each trained panel.

HMFA provides in a single scatter plot a representation of the six chocolates for each panel, the trained panels and all the panels. Confidence ellipses around each chocolate show that the combined panels – the six trained panels and also the untrained panel – differentiate the five dark chocolates. They also show how much larger the untrained panel's variability is than that of the trained panels, and how comparable are the trained panels' variability to each other.
PERCEPTION OF MOUTHFEEL SENSATIONS ELICITED BY RED WINE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SENSITIVITY TO 6‐N‐PROPYLTHIOURACIL
Authors: PICKERING GARY J. , ROBERT GORDON
Published: May 2006

This study investigated the relationship between sensitivity to the bitterness of 6‐n‐propylthiouracil (PROP) – a genetically determined trait used as an index of general taste acuity – and a range of oral sensations elicited by 16 varietal red wines. Seventeen subjects were trained using descriptive analysis (DA) techniques and developed a lexicon consisting of three taste and 10 tactile attributes representing sensations experienced both in‐mouth (IM) and after expectoration (AE). Analysis of variance showed that PROP super‐tasters (ST) (n = 8) rated 11 of these 13 sensations differently compared to PROP nontasters (NT) (n = 8), specifically acidity, saltiness, heat/irritation, tingle/prickle, particulate IM, particulate AE, smoothness IM, smoothness AE, grippy/adhesive, mouthcoat and overall astringency. The greater sensitivity of ST to the textural components of red wine is discussed in the context of greater lingual acuity and implications for DA panels, psychophysics and wine consumer behavior.
SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF COMBINATIONS OF CHEMICALS POTENTIALLY ASSOCIATED WITH BEANY AROMA IN FOODS
Authors: BOTT LACEY , CHAMBERS EDGAR
Published: May 2006

Combinations of chemicals often associated with beaniness in foods were studied using descriptive sensory analysis. A highly trained descriptive panel evaluated combinations (two chemicals at a time) of chemicals containing either one beany and one non‐beany chemical, two beany chemicals, or two non‐beany chemicals to determine whether an overall beany characteristic was present. Overall beany character was found in various combinations from each grouping, including combinations of chemicals that alone were not considered beany. As in previous research, not all levels of chemicals imparted beaniness. When beaniness was present, the intensity was in the low range. The highest overall beany intensity was detected in the combination of 1‐octen‐3‐one, a beany chemical, and hexanal, a non‐beany chemical. Hexanal is abundant in volatiles of soybean products, but does not impart beany aroma individually. Also, combinations of hexanal and other non‐beany chemicals produced an overall beany odor that was not found in the individual chemicals.
QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF OIL BLENDS BY ELECTRONIC NOSE TECHNIQUE AND SENSORY METHODS
Authors: RAJ PAVITHRA N. , PRAKASH MAYA , BHAT KODANGALA KESHAVA
Published: May 2006

Two oil blends comprising 70 parts of groundnut oil (GNO) or rice bran oil (RBO) and 30 parts of coconut oil (CNO) or palmolein (PO) blends were studied for odor quality changes during deep fat frying by sensory and electronic nose techniques. Poori, a common Indian product, was deep fat fried in the two blends; altogether 10 fryings were made for each blend. Sensory odor evaluation by the method of quantitative descriptive analysis showed that freshly prepared blends and the blends after first frying had the characteristic oily note. In GNO + CNO blend, these notes became subdued but the earthy odor increased on subsequent fryings. At the end of the 10th frying, the heated oil odor was significantly higher accompanied with marked increase in husk‐like and branny notes in RBO +PO blends. This was supported by the aroma pattern obtained by the electronic nose which showed discrimination between initial and fried oil samples. The consumer acceptance study conducted among the target groups using the hedonic scale showed that “poori” (fried product) fried in GNO +CNO blend had higher acceptance because of familiarity and liking for characteristic oil odor and aroma.
SENSORIAL CHARACTERISTICS DURING RIPENING OF THE MURCIA AL VINO GOAT'S MILK CHEESE: THE EFFECT OF THE TYPE OF COAGULANT USED AND THE SIZE OF THE CHEESE
Authors: TEJADA L. , ABELLÁN A. , CAYUELA J.M. , MARTÍNEZ‐CACHA A.
Published: May 2006

The aim of the present work was to study the sensorial characteristics of Murcia al Vino cheese made with different coagulants (animal rennet and powdered vegetable coagulant obtained from cardoon [Cynara cardunculus]) and of different weights (1 and 3 kg). The cheeses made with rennet showed less odor and taste intensities, a bit clearer color and were harder and grainier, but less creamy than the cheeses made with vegetable coagulant. The big cheeses were characterized by high wine odor, acid odor, wine taste, bitter taste, acid taste, and number, size and distribution of eyes notes. The small cheeses were distinguished by a high overall taste intensity, hardness, overall odor intensity, color, saltiness and graininess.

Most of the sensorial characteristics were affected by the ripening time of the cheeses.
REGIONAL VARIATION IN SWEET SUPPRESSION
Authors: WARNOCK A.R. , DELWICHE J.F.
Published: May 2006

Differences in the sweet‐blocking efficacy of 2‐(4‐methoxyphenoxy) propanoic acid (PMP) for different sweeteners (sucrose and aspartame) and for various exposure areas of the mouth were found. Twenty participants rated sweetener solutions with and without PMP for sweetness, sourness, saltiness, bitterness and umami for stimulation of anterior tongue, posterior tongue and whole‐mouth areas. For sweetness ratings, suppression was significant for all stimulation areas. In the presence of PMP, stimulation of the posterior tongue yielded significantly higher sweetness ratings than stimulation of the anterior tongue for aspartame but not for sucrose. Sourness and bitterness ratings were significantly higher for anterior tongue than posterior tongue stimulations for aspartame but not for sucrose. The increases in sourness ratings in the presence of PMP were likely because of the sour taste PMP has at the concentration used. Results imply a difference between the front and the back of the tongue in the mechanisms involved in the perception of sweetness.
SENSORY DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS AND CONSUMER ACCEPTABILITY OF GODELLO WINES FROM VALDEORRAS APELLATION ORIGEN CONTROLÉE (NORTHWEST SPAIN)
Authors: VILANOVA MAR
Published: May 2006

The objective of this study was to describe and evaluate consumer responses to Godello wines from Valdeorras (Northwest Spain). Twenty Godello wines were evaluated using sensory descriptive analysis. The consumers (n = 100) evaluated the aroma of Godello wines and a total of 36 attributes were cited, which were then reduced to 19 after the elimination of hedonic terms and nonpertinent attributes according to statistical methods. Consumers smelled and tasted the different wines and the intensity of each attribute was rated on a 0 to 9‐point scale and scored their preferences. Apple, tropical fruit and drying were common sensory attributes among Godello wines. It was observed that there were important differences among consumers for most attributes, except for floral, tropical fruit, aroma intensity, silky, viscosity and fruit flavor. The statistically significant influence of gender on perception and acceptability was observed. The principal component analysis showed that the Godello wines were separated in terms of aroma attributes. Four Godello wines (GWs), GW1, GW2, GW8 and GW9 were the most preferred.
A New Method to Characterize Hydraulic Short‐Circuits in Defective Borehole Seals
Authors: Chesnaux R. , Chapuis R.P. , Molson J.W.
Published: May 2006

A new approach has been developed to detect, characterize, and quantify hydraulic short‐circuits in boreholes with faulty seals. The methodology, applicable to an aquifer‐aquitard‐aquifer system, involves a series of successive, constant‐rate pumping tests in the lower aquifer while determining the leakage rate with a simultaneous nonreactive tracer test. During each pumping step, the tracer is injected under constant concentration and constant hydraulic head from a piezometer in the upper aquifer. If a seal defect exists, the tracer will follow the leak and will be recovered from the pumped water. The theoretical equations relate the leakage rate, the pumping rate, the concentration of the injected tracer, and the recovered concentration. Leakage rates can be determined for any pumping rate. The theory is tested using numerical analysis and a full‐scale field test.
Determining Anisotropic Transmissivity Using a Simplified Papadopulos Method
Authors: Heilweil Victor M. , Hsieh Paul A.
Published: May 2006

The straight‐line method presented by Papadopulos requires a minimum of three observation wells for determining the transmissivity tensor of a homogeneous and anisotropic aquifer. A simplification of this method was developed for fractured aquifers where the principal directions of the transmissivity tensor are known prior to implementation, such as when fracture patterns on outcropping portions of the aquifer may be used to infer the principal directions. This new method assumes that observation wells are drilled along the two principal directions from the pumped well, thus reducing the required number of observation wells to two. This method was applied for an aquifer test in the fractured Navajo Sandstone of southwestern Utah and yielded minimum and maximum principal transmissivity values of 70 and 1800 m2/d, respectively, indicating an anisotropy ratio of ∼24 to 1.
Local Hydraulic Gradient Estimator Analysis of Long‐Term Monitoring Networks
Authors: McKenna Sean A. , Wahi Arun
Published: May 2006

Three measurements of head at unique locations form a three‐point estimator of the local magnitude and orientation of the hydraulic gradient. The relative head measurement error (RHME) is defined here as the measurement error normalized by the head drop across the three‐point estimator. Monte Carlo simulation results show that estimators with base to height ratios between 0.5 and 5.0 and that are large enough to keep the RHME below 0.05 create the most accurate gradient estimates and provide criteria for identifying good estimators. These criteria are applied to an example ground water monitoring network design problem in the Culebra dolomite near the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant repository to both analyze temporal changes and modify and expand the current monitoring network. Limiting the three‐point estimators to those that meet the shape and RHME criteria reduces the number of possible estimators by >50% and leads to ∼1 order of magnitude decrease in the average estimated magnitude of the gradient relative to using all estimators. Application of these criteria also reduces the variability in estimated gradient magnitude and orientation between the two time periods of measurements. Redundant wells in the network are identified by removing each existing well in turn and determining which removals yield the smallest decrease in the number of acceptable estimators. Optimal new well locations are identified by mapping the increase in total number of acceptable estimators for a single new well placed in the study domain.
Pumping Test Evaluation of Stream Depletion Parameters
Authors: Lough Hilary K. , Hunt Bruce
Published: May 2006

Descriptions are given of a pumping test and a corresponding analysis that permit calculation of all five hydrogeological parameters appearing in the Hunt (2003) solution for stream depletion caused by ground water abstraction from a well beside a stream. This solution assumes that flow in the pumped aquifer is horizontal, flow in the overlying aquitard or system of aquitards is vertical, and the free surface in the top aquitard is allowed to draw down. The definition of an aquitard in this paper is any layer with a vertical hydraulic conductivity much lower than the horizontal hydraulic conductivity of the pumped aquifer. These “aquitards” may be reasonably permeable layers but are distinguished from the pumped aquifer by their hydraulic conductivity contrast. The pumping test requires a complete set of drawdown measurements from at least one observation well. This well must be deep enough to penetrate the pumped aquifer, and pumping must continue for a sufficient time to ensure that depleted streamflow becomes a significant portion of the well abstraction rate. Furthermore, two of the five parameters characterize an aquitard that overlies the pumped aquifer, and values for these parameters are seen to be dependent upon the initial water table elevation in the aquitard. The field test analyzed herein used a total of eight observation wells screened in the pumped aquifer, and measurements from these wells gave eight sets of parameters that are used in a sensitivity analysis to determine the relative importance of each parameter in the stream depletion calculations.
Miniaturization of the Flowing Fluid Electric Conductivity Logging Technique
Authors: Su Grace W. , Quinn Nigel W.T. , Cook Paul J. , Shipp William
Published: May 2006

An understanding of the hydraulic properties of the aquifer and the depth distribution of salts is critical for evaluating the potential of ground water for conjunctive water use and for maintaining suitable ground water quality in agricultural regions where ground water is used extensively for irrigation and drinking water. The electrical conductivity profiles recorded in a well using the flowing fluid electric conductivity (FEC) logging method can be analyzed to estimate interval‐specific hydraulic conductivity and estimates of the salinity concentration with depth. However, operating irrigation wells commonly allow limited access, and the traditional equipment used for FEC logging cannot fit through the small access pipe intersecting the well. A modified, miniaturized FEC logging technique was developed for use in wells with limited access. In addition, a new method for injecting water over the entire screened interval of the well reduces the time required to perform FEC logging.
Developing a Long‐Term Monitoring Network Under Uncertain Flowpaths
Authors: Hassan Ahmed E.
Published: May 2006

A long‐term monitoring well network is developed using complementary and simple approaches in conjunction with a stochastic ground water flow and transport model. The development is illustrated for a case study of a U.S. nuclear testing site (Shoal) that is undergoing environmental restoration. The network design builds on three different, yet complementary, tools for locating the monitoring wells with a main objective of detection monitoring. The first tool is applied to select potential siting horizons where monitoring wells could be located. The second tool is used to place monitoring wells in locations with high success probability. The success here is defined as the detection of migrating stochastic plumes before a certain mass percentage reaches a compliance boundary. The third tool is used to analyze detection efficiency of multiple combinations of three wells. Seventy‐six different three‐well networks are selected from 20 candidate locations and are evaluated for detection efficiency. From the 76 networks analyzed, 28 attain detection efficiency close to or above 70%. The results of the different analyses provide multiple alternatives for the locations of the three wells, which will become part of the long‐term monitoring network at Shoal. A number of combinations are equally good, and the final choice will depend on practical considerations and future agreements between model sponsor and regulators.
A Mechanism for Anomalous Decline in Radon Precursory to an Earthquake
Authors: Kuo M.C. Tom , Fan K. , Kuochen H. , Chen W.
Published: May 2006

Mechanisms for interpreting anomalous decreases in radon in ground water prior to earthquakes are examined with the help of a case study to show that radon potentially is a sensitive tracer of strain changes in the crust preceding an earthquake. The 2003 Chengkung earthquake of magnitude (M) 6.8 on December 10, 2003, was the strongest earthquake near the Chengkung area in eastern Taiwan since 1951. The Antung radon‐monitoring station was located 20 km from the epicenter. Approximately 65 d prior to the 2003 Chengkung earthquake, precursory changes in radon concentration in ground water were observed. Specifically, radon decreased from a background level of 780 pCi/L to a minimum of 330 pCi/L. The Antung hot spring is situated in a fractured block of tuffaceous sandstone surrounded by ductile mudstone. Given these geological conditions, we hypothesized that the dilation of brittle rock mass occurred at a rate faster than the recharge of pore water and gas saturation developed in newly created cracks preceding the earthquake. Radon partitioning into the gas phase may explain the anomalous decrease of radon precursory to the 2003 Chengkung earthquake. To support the hypothesis, vapor‐liquid, two‐phase radon‐partitioning experiments were conducted at formation temperature (60°C) using formation brine from the Antung hot spring. Experimental data indicated that the decrease in radon required a gas saturation of 10% developed in rock cracks. The observed decline in radon can be correlated with the increase in gas saturation and then with the volumetric strain change for a given fracture porosity.
General Database for Ground Water Site Information
Authors: De Dreuzy Jean‐Raynald , Bodin Jacques , Le Grand Hervé , Davy Philippe , Boulanger Damien , Battais Annick , Bour Olivier , Gouze Philippe , Porel Gilles
Published: May 2006

In most cases, analysis and modeling of flow and transport dynamics in ground water systems require long‐term, high‐quality, and multisource data sets. This paper discusses the structure of a multisite database (the H+ database) developed within the scope of the ERO program (French Environmental Research Observatory, http://www.ore.fr). The database provides an interface between field experimentalists and modelers, which can be used on a daily basis. The database structure enables the storage of a large number of data and data types collected from a given site or multiple‐site network. The database is well suited to the integration, backup, and retrieval of data for flow and transport modeling in heterogeneous aquifers. It relies on the definition of standards and uses a templated structure, such that any type of geolocalized data obtained from wells, hydrological stations, and meteorological stations can be handled. New types of platforms other than wells, hydrological stations, and meteorological stations, and new types of experiments and/or parameters could easily be added without modifying the database structure. Thus, we propose that the database structure could be used as a template for designing databases for complex sites. An example application is the H+ database, which gathers data collected from a network of hydrogeological sites associated with the French Environmental Research Observatory.
Complexity
Authors: Gómez‐Hernández J. Jaime
Published: May 2006

It is difficult to define complexity in modeling. Complexity is often associated with uncertainty since modeling uncertainty is an intrinsically difficult task. However, modeling uncertainty does not require, necessarily, complex models, in the sense of a model requiring an unmanageable number of degrees of freedom to characterize the aquifer. The relationship between complexity, uncertainty, heterogeneity, and stochastic modeling is not simple. Aquifer models should be able to quantify the uncertainty of their predictions, which can be done using stochastic models that produce heterogeneous realizations of aquifer parameters. This is the type of complexity addressed in this article.