bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factor for Central Venous Catheter-Related Infections in Surgical and Intensive Care Units
Authors: Moro Maria Luisa , Vigano Egidio Franco , Lepri Alessandro Cozzi ,   The Central Venous Catheter-Related Infections Study Group
Published: September 2009

Objective:

To identify avoidable risk factors for central venous catheter (CVC) infections in patients undergoing short-term catheterization.

Design:

Prospective multicenter cohort study.

Setting:

Two university teaching hospitals and five large nonteaching hospitals.

Patients:

Patients admitted to intensive care units or surgical units and exposed to short-term CVCs.

Results:

Of 623 catheterization episodes, 9.3% were associated with catheter-related infections (CRI). The skin at the catheter site was frequently colonized (16.2%) and was the potential source of infection in 56.1% of the cases, mostly local infections. The hub was colonized less frequently (3.5%) but was responsible for systemic infections more frequently

The following variables were independently associated with CRI: duration of catheterization (for 7 to 14 days, odds ratio [OR], 3.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]95, 1.4 to 10.7; and for >14 days, OR, 5.1; CI95, 1.7 to 15.4), coronary care unit service (OR, 6.7; CI95, 1.1 to 42.9) or surgery service (OR, 4.4; CI95, 1.03 to 18.5), second episode of catheterization (OR, 7.6; CI95, 1.8 to 32.3), skin colonization at the insertion site (OR, 56.5; CI95, 10.8 to 296), and hub colonization (OR, 17.9; CI95, 2.4 to 132).

The risk associated with skin colonization varied with use of jugular access or simultaneous colonization of the hub. When only symptomatic CRI was considered, the risk associated with hub colonization was consistently higher (OR, 36.6; 7 to 190) than that associated with skin colonization (OR, 3.2; CI95, 0.7 to 14).

Age, transparent dressing, jugular insertion, male gender, duration of catheterization, and hub colonization were independent risk factors for skin colonization. The effect of age varied by type of dressing and vice versa; the effect of jugular access varied by sex; and the effect of transparent dressing varied by length of catheter-ization and vice versa.

Total parenteral nutrition and skin colonization were independently associated with an increased risk of hub colonization.

Conclusions:

Skin and hub colonization are the two major determinants for endemic CRIs; colonization of the hub, however, is more frequently associated with more severe infections. In order to reduce CRIs, more efforts should be focused on understanding which factors increase the risk of colonization both of the skin and of the hub.
Ultraviolet Air Disinfection: Rationale for Whole Building Irradiation
Authors: Riley Richard L.
Published: September 2009

The danger of exposure to tuberculosis (TB) exists primarily in facilities in which people with TB are likely to mingle with uninfected susceptible people. Such places include, among others, healthcare facilities in areas where TB is prevalent, shelters for the homeless in large cities, drug treatment centers, and prisons. If a given facility is identified as hazardous, an effective method for interrupting airborne transmission of TB is air disinfection with ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI). In this article, implementation of this method will be discussed: where, within a given building, UVGI fixtures should be installed; and what fixture design should be chosen for each location.

Where to install ultraviolet (UV) fixtures depends on where the hazard of airborne TB exists, and that depends on the behavior of infected people and the behavior of infectious airborne particles. Patients with known active TB normally are sequestered in isolation rooms where special precautions are taken to avoid transmission of infection. However, as stated succinctly in 1967 in a document accepted by the National Tuberculosis Association Board of Directors: “It should be made clear that the greatest risk of infection arises from the individual with undiagnosed or unsuspected tuberculosis.” Such people usually are unaware that they are infectious. They may be seated in clinic waiting rooms, walking the hospital corridors, or visiting in patients' rooms. If the unsuspected case is a member of the housekeeping or healthcare staff, he or she may be found anywhere in the building. The behavior of infectious airborne particles is equally unpredictable.
Postexposure Varicella Management of Nonimmune Personnel: An Alternative Approach
Authors: Haiduven Donna J. , Hench Carmen I? , Stevens David A.
Published: September 2009

Varicella exposures in the hospital setting cause problems of management of nonimmune employees. There has been a great deal written about the number of varicella exposures and the problems created by them but few practical recommendations for prevention or management of such exposures, including management of exposed nonimmune employees.

In 1983, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published Guidelines for Infection Control in Hospital Personnel. The CDC is quite clear on their recommendations for personnel exposed to varicella or zoster and state (as a Category I recommendation): “After exposure to varicella or zoster, personnel not known to be immune to varicella (by history or serology) should be excluded from work beginning on the tenth day after exposure and remain away from work for the maximum incubation period of varicella (21 days). Personnel who have onset of varicella should be excluded from work at least until all lesions have dried and crusted.” The CDC suggests it may be useful to screen those personnel who have a negative or equivocal history of varicella for the presence of serum antibodies to varicella zoster virus (VZV) to document susceptibility or immunity.
Molecular Epidemiology of Endemic Ciprofloxacin-Susceptible and -Resistant Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Yee Y.C. , Muder RR , Hsieh M.H. , Lee T.C.
Published: September 2009

Objectives:

To elucidate the epidemiology of widespread ciprofloxacin resistance in our Veterans Affairs medical center using whole cell DNA analysis.

Design:

In vitro study of ciprofloxacin resistant and susceptible Enterobacteriaceae isolated during the course of a clinical epidemiologic study of quinolone resistance.

Setting:

Veterans Affairs Medical Center with acute care and long-term care divisions.

Results:

We examined 40 ciprofloxacin-resistant strains of Serratia marcescens, Proteus mirabilis, and Providencia stuartii using restriction endonuclease analysis of whole cell DNA and compared them with concomitantly isolated ciprofloxacin sensitive strains. We sought to determine whether resistant strains were identical to susceptible strains, indicating in vivo emergence of resistant strains from susceptible strains, and whether resistant strains were shared among patients. All 26 ciprofloxacin-resistant S marcestens isolates shared a single ecoRI restriction pattern. Multiple patterns were seen in the ciprofloxacin-susceptible S marcescens isolates; however, several isolates had a pattern matching that of the resistant isolates. Similar results were seen among the P mirabilis isolates. Three different ecoRI patterns were found among the ciprofloxacin-resistant P stuartii isolates; none matched those found among the susceptible isolates. The frequency of spontaneous emergence of ciprofloxacin resistance in susceptible S marcescens strains with restriction pattern matching that of the resistant strains was significantly higher than that of nonmatching strains.

Conclusions:

Ciprofloxacin-resistant strains of Enterobacteriaceae became widespread within a short period of time. Resistant strains of S marcestens and P mirabilis arose from endemic susceptible strains. The resistant strain of S marcescens appeared to arise from a susceptible strain with a relatively high frequency of spontaneous ciprofloxacin resistance.
3,4‐Di‐O‐Caffeoylquinic Acid Inhibits Angiotensin‐II‐Induced Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Migration by Downregulating the JNK and PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chiou Wen-Fei , Chen Chien-Chih , Wei Bai-Luh
Published: September 2009

We previously reported 3,4‐di‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid (CQC) protected vascular endothelial cells against oxidative stress and restored impaired endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation. Here, we further investigated its anti‐atherosclerotic effect against angiotensin II (Ang II) evoked proliferation and migration of cultured rat vascular smooth muscle cells (rVSMC). The results showed CQC (1–20 μM) clearly inhibited Ang‐II‐stimulated BrdU incorporation and cell migration of rVSMC in a concentration‐dependent manner but without significant cytotoxicity. Western blot analysis revealed Ang II increased the phosphorylation levels of Akt and mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs;p38, ERK1/2 and JNK) in rVSMC. In the presence of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin and three individual MAPK inhibitors SB203580, PD98059 and SP600125, both Ang‐II‐induced cell proliferation and migration were significantly attenuated, although to differing extents, suggesting the PI3K and MAPK signal pathways all participated in regulating rVSMC proliferation and migration. Also, the CQC pretreatment markedly suppressed Ang‐II‐induced phosphorylation of Akt and JNK rather than ERK1/2, although it failed to affect p38 phosphorylation. In conclusion, our data demonstrate CQC may act by down‐regulating Akt, JNK and part of the ERK1/2 pathways to inhibit Ang‐II‐induced rVSMC proliferation and migration. The anti‐atherosclerotic effect of CQC is achieved either by endothelial cells protection or by VSMC proliferation/migration inhibition, suggesting this compound may be useful in preventing vascular diseases.
Intrinsic water‐use efficiency of temperate seminatural grassland has increased since 1857: an analysis of carbon isotope discrimination of herbage from the Park Grass Experiment
Authors: KÖHLER IRIS H. , POULTON PAUL R. , AUERSWALD KARL , SCHNYDER HANS
Published: September 2009

A 150‐year‐long record of intrinsic water‐use efficiency (Wi) was derived from community‐level carbon isotope discrimination (13Δ) in the herbage of the unfertilized, unlimed control treatment (plot 3) of the Park Grass Experiment at Rothamsted (England) between 1857 and 2007. 13Δ during spring growth (first cut harvested in June) averaged 21.0‰ (±0.5‰ SD) and has not shown a long‐term trend (P=0.5) since 1857. 13Δ of summer/autumn growth (second cut harvested between September and November) increased from 21.3‰ to 22.0‰ (P < 0.001) between 1875 and 2007. Wi during spring growth has therefore increased by 33% since the beginning of the experiment, and Wi of summer/autumn growth has increased by 18%. The variation in 13Δ was mainly related to weather conditions. Plant available soil water explained 51% and 40% of the variation in spring growth 13Δ and summer/autumn growth 13Δ, respectively. In the 1857–2007 period yields have not increased, suggesting that community‐level photosynthesis has not increased either. Therefore, the increased Wi probably resulted from a decreased stomatal conductance. Vapour pressure deficit (VPD) during spring growth (March–June) has not changed since 1915, meaning that instantaneous water‐use efficiency (Wt) in spring time has increased and transpiration has probably decreased, provided that leaf temperature followed air temperature. Conversely, VPD in the months between the first and second cut has increased by 0.07 kPa since 1915, offsetting the effect of increased Wi on Wt during summer and early autumn. Our results suggest that vegetation has adjusted physiologically to elevated CO2 by decreasing stomatal conductance in this nutrient‐limited grassland.
Relative influence of fisheries and climate on the demography of four albatross species
Authors: ROLLAND VIRGINIE , WEIMERSKIRCH HENRI , BARBRAUD CHRISTOPHE
Published: September 2009

Worldwide ecosystems are modified by human activities and climate change. To be able to predict future changes, it is necessary to understand their respective role on population dynamics. Among the most threatened species are top predators because of their position in the food web. Albatross populations are potentially affected by both human activities, especially longline fisheries, and climatic fluctuations. Based on long‐term data (1985–2006), we conducted through a comparative approach a demographic analysis (adult survival and breeding success) on four albatross species breeding on the Indian Ocean sub‐Antarctic Islands to assess the relative impact of climate and fisheries during and outside the breeding season. The study revealed that adult survival of almost all species was not affected by climate, and therefore probably canalized against climatic variations, but was negatively affected by tuna longlining effort in three species. Breeding success was affected by climate, with contrasted effects between species, with Southern Oscillation Index having an impact on all species but one. Differences in demographic responses depended on the foraging zone and season. In order to predict population trajectories of seabirds such as albatrosses, our results show the importance of assessing the relative influence of fishing and climate impacts on demography.
Effect of fructans‐based fat replacer on chemical composition, starch digestibility and sensory acceptability of corn snacks
Authors: Capriles Vanessa D. , Soares Rosana A. M. , Pinto e Silva Maria E. M. , Arêas José A. G.
Published: September 2009

To develop a convenience healthy food snack the partially hydrogenated vegetable fat, used as the flavour fixative agent, was replaced by a non‐fat‐flavouring solution enriched with inulin and oligofructose. The effects of this replacement on chemical composition, in vitro rate of starch digestion and sensory acceptability were assessed. The new snack presented low‐fat levels (0.1%) and around a sevenfold increase in dietary fibre (15.3% of dietary fibre, being 13.3% of fructans) when compared with the traditional ones. The enrichment with fructans reduced the predicted Glycaemic Index by 25%, thus indicating that this dietary fibre contributes effectively towards delaying the in vitro glycaemic response. Fructans‐enriched snack presented overall acceptability score (6.6 ± 1.7) similar to the traditional one, flavoured with fatty fixative agent (7.4 ± 1.4). The healthy low‐fat fibre‐enriched snack produced presented the high sensory acceptability typical for this food product type.
Influence of pre‐treatments on microbial load of stored dehydrated onion slices
Authors: Kadam Dattatreya M. , Nangare Dhananjay Dhondiram , Oberoi Harinder Singh
Published: September 2009

Onions slices were pre‐treated in potassium meta‐bisulphite (KMS) and sodium chloride with different concentration levels to study the microbial load of tray and greenhouse‐dried onion slices up to 6 months of storage. Data were analysed as per procedure of one‐way classified anova using DMRT of AgRes statistical package for bacteria, yeast, fungi and Lactobacilli. Results revealed that in almost all samples, permissible levels of bacteria [18.33 × 101 colony‐forming units (CFU) per gram], yeast (ND), fungi (0.5 × 101 CFU g−1) and Lactobacilli (0.25 × 101 CFU g−1) were observed after 5 months of storage. All the samples were also found to be free from Escherichia coli and no Mac Conkey growth was noticed. Onion slices pre‐treated in 0.25% and 0.50% KMS and dried in tray and greenhouse, respectively, were found best after 6 months of storage period.
Antimicrobial effects of probiotic bacteria against selected species of yeasts and moulds in cheese‐based dips
Authors: Tharmaraj Nalayini , Shah Nagendra P.
Published: September 2009

The antimicrobial properties of selected probiotic bacteria against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium roqueforti, Fusarium spp., Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were examined. Well diffusion and spot and streak methods showed strong inhibition effect of probiotic bacteria and their metabolites against moulds and minimal effect against yeasts. Among the moulds species tested, the inhibitory effect was strongest against Fusarium spp., moderate against Penicillium roqueforti and minimal against A. niger. All strains of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and L. paracasei subsp. paracasei showed maximum inhibitory effect. When probiotic bacteria and yeasts and moulds were co‐cultured in broth media, strains of L. rhamnosus showed maximum inhibitory effect, whereas L. paracasei subsp. paracasei, L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium animalis and Propionibacterium showed moderate inhibitory effect against C. albicans. Saccharomyces cerevisiae was minimally controlled by probiotic bacteria. Pre‐grown probiotic bacterial culture metabolites controlled yeasts and moulds more effectively than their freeze‐dried or frozen forms. Adding metabolites of probiotic bacteria (5% w/w) showed an effective control against A. niger, Fusarium spp. and C. albicans during the shelf life of 10 weeks at 4 °C and no colonies of yeasts and moulds were formed on the surface of the dip.
Supercritical CO2 extraction of grappa volatile compounds
Authors: Da Porto C. , Decorti D.
Published: September 2009

A first study on the recovery of aromatic extracts from grappa by means of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) on a laboratory plant has been performed, to obtain aroma extracts at low ethanol content. The influence of extraction parameters like pressure, temperature and flow rate have been studied. Extraction yields have been evaluated for ethanol, higher alcohols and esters of short and medium chain acids. A higher aroma volatile compounds extraction has been obtained when the strongest extraction condition has been considered (200 bar, 60 °C, 0.3 kg h−1). Sensory evaluation has indicated as preferred the extract obtained under mild condition (80 bar, 40 °C, 0.3 kg h−1).
Use of specific PCR‐based molecular markers for discrimination, rapid analysis of purity and identification of six fragrant rice varieties
Authors: Minh Ho Ky Quang , Rakshit Sudip Kumar
Published: September 2009

Fragrant rice is high in quality and hence price. Therefore, fragrant rice is often mixed with non‐fragrant or low grade rice. The quality of fragrant rice depends on many factors such as variety, region in which it is cultivated, handling practices, etc. In this study, two specific primer pairs, including external sense primer, external antisense primer, internal non‐fragrant sense primer and internal fragrant antisense primer were used to differentiate fragrant and non‐fragrant rice based on the detection of 8‐bp deletion in betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 gene. The purity of the fragrant rice can be detected at 1% and 2% level of adulteration with homogeneous and heterogeneous non‐fragrant rice varieties, respectively, using only one primer pair (internal non‐fragrant sense primer and external antisense primer). Furthermore, six particular fragrant rice varieties were identified using specific RM 1 microsatellite markers. Further analysis should be conducted to verify the discriminating power of this method of analysis for the traceability of fragrant rice varieties.
Diffusion and thermal degradation of ascorbic acid during canned fresh green peas sterilisation
Authors: Garrote Raúl L , Silva Enrique R. , Roa Rubén D.
Published: September 2009

Changes of ascorbic acid (AA) during canned fresh green peas sterilisation in a rotary retort were predicted. It was considered that AA is thermally degraded in green peas and simultaneously diffuses to brine, where it is also degraded; heat transfer, mass transfer and kinetics equations were simultaneously solved during heating and cooling of the sterilisation process. Kinetic parameters of AA thermal degradation in brine were experimentally determined, while all other parameters needed were taken from bibliography. Simplified assumptions were made to explore diffusion and thermal degradation mechanisms relevance. Experimental runs were performed at different retort temperatures, end‐over‐end rotation speeds and headspaces in a pilot plant rotary retort; experimental data obtained on concentrations of AA in green peas and in brine were used to evaluate predictions goodness. Deviations between experimental and predicted results were 8.44% for AA in green peas and 13.79% in brine.
Some characteristics of polyphenol oxidase purified from edible yam (Dioscorea cayenensis‐rotundata cv. Longbô) cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Gnangui Sophie Nadège , Niamké Sebastien Lamine , Kouamé Lucien Patrice
Published: September 2009

Polyphenol oxidase (PPOY) of edible yam (Dioscorea cayenensis‐rotundata cv. Longbô) cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire was purified to homogeneity by a procedure that included ion exchange chromatography, ammonium sulphate fractionation, gel filtration and hydrophobic chromatography using dopamine as a substrate. The relative molecular weight of the PPOY was estimated to be 94.75 ± 0.63 and 151.56 ± 2.75 kDa by SDS–PAGE and gel filtration on Sephacryl S100 HR, respectively, indicating this PPOY as a multimer. Maximal PPOY activity occurred at 30 °C and pH 6.6. The enzyme was stable at 25 °C and its pH stability was in the range of 6.0–7.0. The values Vmax/Km showed that the enzyme had the greatest reactivity towards dopamine among the substrates used. PPOY showed no activity toward the monophenols and was completely inhibited by beta‐mercaptoethanol, sodium thiosulphate, l‐ascorbic acid, sodium bisulphite and l‐cysteine. Data generated by this study might help to better prevent edible yam browning.
Stability of quinoa flour proteins (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) during storage
Authors: Abugoch Lilian , Castro Eduardo , Tapia Cristian , Añón María Cristina , Gajardo Pilar , Villarroel Andrea
Published: September 2009

The amino acid composition and the physicochemical and functional properties of quinoa flour proteins (QFP) were evaluated during storage (at 20, 30 and 40 °C). Quinoa flour showed a protein content of 14.2 ± 0.1 g 100 g−1 and high levels of essential amino acids as lysine. SDS–PAGE of the QFP presented ten major band, and native‐PAGE of the QFP showed similar banding; there was a little variation due to time‐temperature. TCA‐protein solubility variation (%) was small and the values of water activity were low, a non‐significant endogenous hydrolysis was observed. Differential scanning calorimetry flour analysis allowed determining two endotherms, starch and protein. Important structural changes of protein soluble fractions were not detected by UV and fluorescence spectroscopy due to temperature and time of storage. It was found during storage time loss of protein solubility and water absorption. These changes could be to influence in the manufacture of quinoa flour based products. For avoid changes in these functional properties (solubility and water holding capacity), quinoa flour can be stored at ambient temperature (between 20 and 30 °C) and packed in double kraft paper bags (2 months).
Natural compounds to preserve fresh fish burgers
Authors: Corbo Maria Rosaria , Speranza Barbara , Filippone Alfonso , Conte Amalia , Sinigaglia Milena , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro
Published: September 2009

Natural antimicrobial compounds to control the quality decay of a fresh fish burger were studied. In particular, thymol, lemon extract and grape fruit seed extract (GFSE), at 20, 40 and 80 ppm, have been tested against the main spoilage microorganisms inoculated in fish burgers stored at 5 °C. The evolution of mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria was also monitored. The sensorial quality decay was determined by means of a panel test, which assessed odour, colour, texture, drip loss and general appearance during the storage period. Results show that all the active substances efficiently slowed down the growth of the spoilage microorganisms. In particular, GFSE was the most efficient against Photobacterium phosphoreum, Shewanella putrefaciens and mesophilic bacteria, whereas thymol was the most efficient against both psychrotrophic bacteria and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Microbial growth was the factor limiting fresh fish burger acceptability.
Mathematical modelling of moisture sorption isotherms and determination of isosteric heat of blueberry variety O′Neil
Authors: Vega‐Gálvez Antonio , López Jessica , Miranda Margarita , Di Scala Karina , Yagnam Francisco , Uribe Elsa
Published: September 2009

The sorption isotherms of blueberry variety O’Neil were determined at 20, 40 and 60 °C, for a range of water activity of 0.10–0.95. The isotherms showed that the equilibrium moisture content increased when temperature decreased at constant water activity. The BET, GAB, Halsey, Henderson, Caurie, Smith, Oswin and Iglesias‐Chirife equations were tested for modelling the sorption isotherms. The results showed that GAB, BET and Halsey models gave the best fit quality for the experimental desorption data, and BET, Oswin and Henderson for adsorption data as suggested by the statistical tests employed. The net sorption heat was calculated using the Clausius–Clapeyron equation giving 38.62 kJ mol−1(desorption) and 30.88 kJ mol−1(adsorption) at a moisture content of 0.01 g water (g d.m.−1). Tsami equation was applied to estimate the net isosteric heat of sorption as function of equilibrium moisture content with satisfactory results.
A consumer preference study of raw Norwegian rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) assashimiwith focus on young adults in Japan
Authors: Sone Izumi , Nortvedt Ragnar
Published: September 2009

This study was the first consumer study done in Japan, which investigated consumer preferences of raw Norwegian rainbow trout with the use of an experimental design. A full factorial design with three variables (body part, body weight and freshness) was applied at two levels. The results showed that the variation in body part had the greatest effect on the expected and experienced eating quality of raw rainbow trout among seventy‐five young adult consumers. The effect was negative and it is possible that the high fat level observed in the belly region does not always lead to better overall likings. The high fat content could also result in the intense fishy odour distinctive to raw salmonidae at consumption and influence the perception of other quality attributes. The present study provides a new way of offering more practical and applicable suggestions to the fish farming industry.
Amino acids evolution during ripening of goats’ milk cheese manufactured with different coagulants
Authors: Pino Antonio , Prados Francisco , Galán Elena , Vivo Rafael , Fernández‐Salguero José
Published: September 2009

Powdered plant coagulant obtained from the cardoon flowers (Cynara cardunculus) was compared with calf rennet for the manufacture of traditional raw goats’ milk cheese, by determining differences in the profiles of the amino acids throughout the ripening period. Derivatisation with o‐phtaldialdehyde and a C18 column were used for chromatographic separations. In order to establish the relationships between the different variables and to detect the most important causes of variability, principal component analysis was applied to the free amino acids data, which reduced to two dimensions where cheese samples from 2 to 60 days and cheeses from 90 to 120 days were distributed dependently of ripening time and coagulant used. Leu, Val, Lys, Gly, Tyr and Asp were correlated with PC1, which separated the samples according to their ripening time. Arg, His, Trp, Ser and Thr were correlated with PC2, which separated the samples according to the coagulant used.
Studies on radical scavenging activity of tea leaves and effect of additives on activities of black tea liquor
Authors: Muthuiah Maria J. , Thomas Jibu , Kumar Rajagopal Raj , Azad Mandal Abul K.
Published: September 2009

Green tea is proved to be a source of various biochemicals, which projects tea to be a health drink. The study investigated free radical scavenging activity of leaf extracts of south Indian tea clones, individual catechin molecules and documented the influence of various additives on the scavenging activity of black tea infusion. Among the tea clones, UPASI‐17 contained higher quantum of catechins. Lower content of catechins correlated with low 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl and hydroxyl scavenging activities. Low scavenging activity was noticed in gallocatechin. A wide variation was found in free radical scavenging activity of individual molecules, leaf extracts, tea liquor and its combination with the additives. Tea liquor along with lemon juice showed the highest free radical scavenging activity. When sugar and lemon juice were amended with tea liquor, free radical scavenging activity declined marginally. Addition of milk and sugar with tea liquor declined the free radical scavenging activity significantly.
Extrusion parameters and consumer acceptability of a peanut‐based meat analogue
Authors: Rehrah Djaafar , Ahmedna Mohamed , Goktepe Ipek , Yu Jianmei
Published: September 2009

Despite its high protein content and low cost, defatted peanut flour (DPF) remains underutilised in human foods. The objectives of this study were to: (1) determine the best extrusion parameters for a peanut‐based textured meat analogue (TMA); (2) develop new TMA products from DPF and (3) evaluate their consumer acceptability. Preliminary runs using a wide range of extrusion parameters were conducted. A central composite RSM design was used to determine the optimal extrusion conditions within the best ranges revealed by the preliminary runs. Three levels of moisture, screw‐speed and barrel temperature were used in 31 runs. Expansion ratio, bulk density, texture profile, water absorption/solubility indexes of the extrudates were determined and used as indicators of product quality. Peanut‐based TMAs produced at optimal extrusion conditions were flavoured with beef flavour and evaluated by a 60‐member sensory panel for flavour, texture, and overall liking, using a 9‐point hedonic scale. Optimisation studies revealed that the most important extrusion conditions are in descending order: protein content, temperature, moisture and screw‐speed. Extrusion conditions that produced the best TMA were 60–65% protein, 50–55% moisture, 160–165 °C and 80–90 r.p.m. Sensory acceptability of snacks incorporating peanut‐based TMAs was similar or better than those containing soya‐based TMAs in terms of flavour, texture, off‐flavour and overall liking. TMA produced from inexpensive DPF has the potential to compete with commercial meat analogues, thereby adding value to the peanut industry.
Reproductive senescence in a cooperatively breeding mammal
Authors: Sharp Stuart P. , Clutton‐Brock Tim H.
Published: September 2009

1. Senescence (or ‘ageing’) is a widespread and important process in wild animal populations, but variation in ageing patterns within and between species is poorly understood.

2. In cooperatively breeding species, the costs of reproduction are shared between breeders and one or more helpers. The effects of ageing in breeders may therefore be moderated by the presence of helpers, but there have been very few studies of senescence patterns in natural populations of cooperative breeders.

3. Here, we use 13 years of data from a long‐term study population of wild meerkats (Suricata suricatta) to investigate age‐related changes in several traits known to be key components of reproductive success in females of this species.

4. Four of the six traits studied exhibited significant declines with age, indicating senescence. Litter size, the number of litters produced per year and the number of pups that survived to emergence from the natal burrow per year all increased with female age up to a peak at c. 4 years, and declined steeply thereafter; the mean pup weight at emergence in a given litter declined steadily from age zero.

5. These results provide the first evidence of reproductive senescence in a wild population of a cooperatively breeding vertebrate. Breeding success declined with age despite the sharing of reproductive costs in this species, but further study is needed to investigate whether helping affects other aspects of senescence, including survival.
Neuronal cell replacement in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Hedlund E. , Perlmann T.
Published: September 2009

Transplantation of foetal dopamine neurons into the striatum of Parkinson’s disease patients can provide restoration of the dopamine system and alleviate motor deficits. However, cellular replacement is associated with several problems. As with pharmacological treatments, cell therapy can lead to disabling abnormal involuntary movements (dyskinesias). The exclusion of serotonin and GABA neurons, and enrichment of substantia nigra (A9) dopamine neurons, may circumvent this problem. Furthermore, although grafted foetal dopamine neurons can survive in Parkinson’s patients for more than a decade, the occurrence of Lewy bodies within such transplanted cells and reduced dopamine transporter and tyrosine hydroxylase expression levels indicate that grafted cells are associated with pathology. It will be important to understand if such abnormalities are host‐ or graft induced and to develop methods to ensure survival of functional dopamine neurons. Careful preparation of cellular suspensions to minimize graft‐induced inflammatory responses might influence the longevity of transplanted cells. Finally, a number of practical and ethical issues are associated with the use of foetal tissue sources. Thus, future cell therapy is aiming towards the use of embryonic stem cell or induced pluripotent stem cell derived dopamine neurons.
Cellular origins of β‐cell regeneration: a legacy view of historical controversies
Authors: Granger A. , Kushner J. A.
Published: September 2009

Beta‐cell regeneration represents a major goal of therapy for diabetes. Unravelling the origin of β cells during pancreatic regeneration could help restore a functional β‐cell mass in diabetes patients. This scientific question has represented a longstanding interest still intensively investigated today. This review focuses on pioneering observations and subsequent theories made 100 years ago and describes how technical innovation helped resolve some, but not all, of the controversies generated by these early investigators. At the end of the 19th century, complete pancreatectomy demonstrated the crucial physiological role of the pancreas and its link with diabetes. Pancreatic injury models, including pancreatectomy and ductal ligation, allowed investigators to describe islet function and to assess the regenerative capacity of the pancreas. Three main theories were proposed to explain the origins of newly formed islets: (i) transdifferentiation of acinar cells into islets, (ii) islet neogenesis, a process reminiscent of islet formation during embryonic development, and (iii) replication of preexisting islet cells. Despite considerable technical innovation in the last 50 years, the origin of new adult β cells remains highly controversial and the same three theories are still debated today.
Morphology and nuclear markers reveal extensive mitochondrial introgressions in the Iberian Wall Lizard species complex
Authors: RENOULT JULIEN P. , GENIEZ PHILIPPE , BACQUET PAUL , BENOIT LAURE , CROCHET PIERRE‐ANDRÉ
Published: September 2009

Mitochondrial markers are still often used alone to identify evolutionary units, despite widespread evidence for processes such as incomplete lineage sorting or introgressive hybridization that may blur past population history. The combination of mitochondrial DNA data with other sources of information (morphology, nuclear genes) is a powerful tool to reveal when and why mitochondrial markers are potentially misleading. In this study, we evaluate the performance of mtDNA markers to unravel the evolutionary history of Spanish lizards from the Podarcis hispanicus species complex. We first uncover several cases of discordance between morphological and mitochondrial data in delimitation of taxa. To assess the origin of these discordances, we analysed the same populations using several independent nuclear loci. Both morphological and nuclear markers identified the same three evolutionary units in the region, while mitochondrial data revealed four deeply divergent lineages. We suggest here that the most likely scenario to explain this discordance is ancient mitochondrial introgression originating from a fourth evolutionary unit presently absent from the study area. Notably, this resulted in a complete replacement of the original lineage in a large part of the distribution of one of the taxa investigated. We discuss the potential evolutionary scenarios leading to this complete mitochondrial replacement and suggest why the previous studies have failed to recover the correct history of this species complex.
Regular vs prn nebulized treatment in wheeze preschool children
Authors: Papi A. , Nicolini G. , Baraldi E. , Boner A. L. , Cutrera R. , Rossi G. A. , Fabbri L. M. ,   on behalf of the BEclomethasone and Salbutamol Treatment (BEST) for Children Study Group
Published: September 2009

Background:  International guidelines recommend regular treatment with inhaled glucocorticoids for children with frequent wheezing; however, prn inhaled bronchodilator alone or in combination with glucocorticoid is also often used in practice. We aimed to evaluate whether regular nebulized glucocorticoid plus a prn bronchodilator or a prn nebulized bronchodilator/glucocorticoid combination is more effective than prn bronchodilator alone in preschool children with frequent wheeze.

Methods:  Double‐blind, double‐dummy, randomized, parallel‐group trial. After a 2‐week run‐in period, 276 symptomatic children with frequent wheeze, aged 1–4 years, were randomly assigned to three groups for a 3‐month nebulized treatment: (1) 400 μg beclomethasone bid plus 2500 μg salbutamol prn; (2) placebo bid plus 800 μg beclomethasone/1600 μg salbutamol combination prn; (3) placebo bid plus 2500 μg salbutamol prn. The percentage of symptom‐free days was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcomes included symptom scores, use of relief medication and exacerbation frequency.

Results:  As compared with prn salbutamol (61.0 ± 24.83 [SD]), the percentage of symptom‐free days was higher with regular beclomethasone (69.6%, SD 20.89; P = 0.034) but not with prn combination (64.9%, SD 24.74). Results were no different in children with or without risk factors for developing persistent asthma. The effect of prn combination was no different from that of regular beclomethasone on the primary and on several important secondary outcomes.

Conclusions:  Regular inhaled glucocorticoid is the most effective treatment for frequent wheezing in preschool children. However, prn bronchodilator/glucocorticoid combination might be an alternative option, but it requires further study.
EAACI/GA2LEN/EDF/WAO guideline: definition, classification and diagnosis of urticaria
Authors: Zuberbier T. , Asero R. , Bindslev‐Jensen C. , Walter Canonica G. , Church M. K. , Giménez‐Arnau A. , Grattan C. E. H. , Kapp A. , Merk H. F. , Rogala B. , Saini S. , Sánchez‐Borges M. , Schmid‐Grendelmeier P. , Schünemann H. , Staubach P. , Vena G. A. , Wedi B. , Maurer M.
Published: September 2009

This guideline, together with its sister guideline on the management of urticaria [Zuberbier T, Asero R, Bindslev‐Jensen C, Canonica GW, Church MK, Giménez‐Arnau AM et al. EAACI/GA²LEN/EDF/WAO Guideline: Management of urticaria. Allergy, 2009; 64:1427–1443] is the result of a consensus reached during a panel discussion at the 3rd International Consensus Meeting on Urticaria, Urticaria 2008, a joint initiative of the Dermatology Section of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), the EU‐funded network of excellence, the Global Allergy and Asthma European Network (GA²LEN), the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) and the World Allergy Organization (WAO). Urticaria is a frequent disease. The life‐time prevalence for any subtype of urticaria is approximately 20%. Chronic spontaneous urticaria and other chronic forms of urticaria do not only cause a decrease in quality of life, but also affect performance at work and school and, as such, are members of the group of severe allergic diseases. This guideline covers the definition and classification of urticaria, taking into account the recent progress in identifying its causes, eliciting factors, and pathomechanisms. In addition, it outlines evidence‐based diagnostic approaches for different subtypes of urticaria. The correct management of urticaria, which is of paramount importance for patients, is very complex and is consequently covered in a separate guideline developed during the same consensus meeting. This guideline was acknowledged and accepted by the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS).
Influenza virus vaccination in kidney transplant recipients: serum antibody response to different immunosuppressive drugs
Authors: Salles Mauro J.C. , Sens Yvoty A.S. , Boas Lucy S.V. , Machado Clarisse M.
Published: September 2009

Salles MJC, Sens YAS, Boas LSV, Machado CM. Influenza virus vaccination in kidney transplant recipients: serum antibody response to different immunosuppressive drugs. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: E17–E23. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Introduction:  This study prospectively accessed the immune response to the inactivated influenza vaccine in renal transplant recipients receiving either azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). Side effects were investigated.

Methods:  Sixty‐nine patients received one dose of inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine. Antihemagglutinin (HI) antibody response against each strain was measured before and one to six months after vaccination.

Results:  Geometric mean HI antibody titers for H1N1 and H3N2 strains increased from 2.57 and 2.44 to 13.45 (p = 0.001) and 7.20 (p < 0.001), respectively. Pre‐ and post‐vaccination protection rates for H1N1 and H3N2 increased from 8.7% to 49.3% (p < 0.001); and 36.3% (p < 0.001) and seroconversion rates were 36% and 25.3%, respectively. There was no response to influenza B. The use of MMF reduced the H1N1 and H3N2 protection rates and the seroconversion rate for the H1N1 strain when compared with the use of azathioprine, and subjects transplanted less than 87 months also had inferior antibody response. Adverse events were mild and there were no change on renal function post‐vaccination.

Conclusion:  Renal transplant patients vaccinated against influenza responded with antibody production for influenza A virus strains, but not for influenza B. Use of MMF and shorter time from transplantation decreased the immune response to the vaccine.
Antipredator Responses by Native Mosquitofish to Non‐Native Cichlids: An Examination of the Role of Prey Naiveté
Authors: Rehage Jennifer S. , Dunlop Katherine L. , Loftus William F.
Published: September 2009

The strong impact of non‐native predators in aquatic systems is thought to relate to the evolutionary naiveté of prey. Due to isolation and limited dispersal, this naiveté may be relatively high in freshwater systems. In this study, we tested this notion by examining the antipredator response of native mosquitofish,Gambusia holbrooki,to two non‐native predators found in the Everglades, the African jewelfish,Hemichromis letourneuxi,and the Mayan cichlid,Cichlasoma urophthalmus. We manipulated prey naiveté by using two mosquitofish populations that varied in their experience with the recent invader, the African jewelfish, but had similar levels of experience with the longer‐established Mayan cichlid. Specifically, we tested these predictions: (1) predator hunting modes differed between the two predators, (2) predation rates would be higher by the novel jewelfish predator, (3) particularly on the naive population living where jewelfish have not invaded yet, (4) antipredator responses would be stronger to Mayan cichlids due to greater experience and weaker and/or ineffective to jewelfish, and (5) especially weakest by the naive population. We assayed prey and predator behavior, and prey mortality in lab aquaria where both predators and prey were free‐ranging. Predator hunting modes and habitat domains differed, with jewelfish being more active search predators that used slightly higher parts of the water column and less of the habitat structure relative to Mayan cichlids. In disagreement with our predictions, predation rates were similar between the two predators, antipredator responses were stronger to African jewelfish (except for predator inspections), and there was no difference in response between jewelfish‐savvy and jewelfish‐naive populations. These results suggest that despite the novelty of introduced predators, prey may be able to respond appropriately if non‐native predator archetypes are similar enough to those of native predators, if prey rely on general antipredator responses or predation cues, and/or show neophobic responses.
Docetaxel‐based chemotherapy with zoledronic acid and prednisone in hormone refractory prostate cancer: Factors predicting response and survival
Authors: Nayyar Rishi , Sharma Nitin , Gupta Narmada P
Published: September 2009

Objectives:  To evaluate the efficacy of docetaxel/prednisone and zoledronic acid in hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC) patients and to analyze prognostic factors predicting overall survival.

Methods:  Forty‐four HRPC patients were given docetaxel (75 mg/m2), prednisone and zoledronic acid (4 mg) every three weeks. Overall and progression‐free survival curves were calculated. Using the log–rank test, variables predicting overall survival (age, Gleason score, baseline prostate‐specific antigen [PSA], percentage PSA decline, nadir PSA, number of chemotherapy cycles) were calculated.

Results:  Median age was 66 years and mean PSA 171.25 ng/mL. The average number of given cycles was 6.3. A good PSA response (>50% decline) was observed in 26/44 cases (59.1%). A total of 17/44 (38.6%) patients expired with a median overall survival of 62.4 weeks. Patients with a Gleason score less than 7, who received more than four cycles and with a more‐than‐50% decline in PSA had significantly better survival. Variables like age, baseline PSA and nadir PSA did not significantly affect survival.

Conclusion:  The combination of docetaxel/zoledronic/prednisone is safe and effective in the management of HRPC. Patients with a Gleason score <7, PSA decline >50% and those who receive more than four cycles have significantly better survival.
SEQUENTIAL MERGERS WITH DIFFERING DIFFERENTIATION LEVELS*
Authors: EBINA TAKESHI , SHIMIZU DAISUKE
Published: September 2009

We study sequential merger incentives under presence of product differentiation. Two sets of firms produce closely related goods, whereas each set produces more differentiated goods. Merger incentives under product differentiation are found to be stronger for two firms producing closely related goods than more differentiated goods. Also, after one merger, other firms are willing to follow with their own merger, resulting in sequential mergers. This result is consistent with the recent mergers in the video game software industry in Japan.
Computationally efficient methods for two multivariate fractionally integrated models
Authors: Sela Rebecca J. , Hurvich Clifford M.
Published: September 2009

Abstract.  We discuss two distinct multivariate time‐series models that extend the univariate ARFIMA (autoregressive fractionally integrated moving average) model. We discuss the different implications of the two models and describe an extension to fractional cointegration. We describe algorithms for computing the covariances of each model, for computing the quadratic form and approximating the determinant for maximum likelihood estimation and for simulating from each model. We compare the speed and accuracy of each algorithm with existing methods individually. Then, we measure the performance of the maximum likelihood estimator and of existing methods in a Monte Carlo. These algorithms are much more computationally efficient than the existing algorithms and are equally accurate, making it feasible to model multivariate long memory time series and to simulate from these models. We use maximum likelihood to fit models to data on goods and services inflation in the United States.