bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of the End of the Coffee Export Quota System on International‐to‐Retail Price Transmission
Authors: Lee Jun , Gómez Miguel I.
Published: October 2012

We examine the impact of the end of the coffee export quota system (EQS) on international‐to‐retail price transmission in France, Germany and the United States. We take account of the existence of long‐run threshold effects and short‐run price transmission asymmetries (PTAs). We find evidence of threshold effects in both periods (EQS and post‐EQS) in all three countries and the presence of short‐run PTAs during the post‐EQS period in all countries, but not during the EQS period. Our results indicate that the threshold values are smaller in the post‐EQS period, suggesting that retail prices became more responsive to changes in international prices. However, the speed of adjustment towards the long‐run equilibrium decreases during the post‐EQS period in the three countries. In the short run, non‐linear impulse response analyses indicate that a shock in international prices was more persistent during the EQS period than in the post‐EQS period. Moreover, we find evidence of short‐run PTAs in the post‐EQS period, with differences across countries. We find support for the ‘rockets and feathers’ principle in the United States; in contrast, retail prices respond faster when international prices are falling in Germany and France. We explain these differences in terms of market structures.
Image Matching of Satellite Data Based on Quadrilateral Control Networks
Authors: Sedaghat Amin , Ebadi Hamid , Mokhtarzade Mehdi
Published: October 2012

Automatic image matching of satellite data is a difficult process due to the complex characteristics of such image pairs, including significant translation, rotation, scaling and illumination differences. A new method is proposed where, initially, a pre‐registration is performed to coarsely align the input and reference images. Next, a dense set of corner points are extracted using the Harris operator. The strongest conjugate corner points are determined and the accuracy is improved by using least squares matching to construct a precise braced quadrilateral control network in the two images. Once the consistency of the established network pairs has been determined, it is used as a framework to match the remaining corner points. Comprehensive evaluations of the proposed method on a variety of image pairs from different sensors prove its efficiency with sub‐pixel positional accuracy.
Distribution Channel Strategies for a Manufacturer with Complementary Products
Authors: Xia Yusen , Xiao Tiaojun , Zhang G. Peter
Published: October 2012

In this article, we consider distribution channel strategies for an incumbent manufacturer who produces two complementary products and must determine whether or not to have another company to sell its products. We identify factors that affect the manufacturer's motivation to use dual‐channel distribution. Our results show that both complementarity between complements and product substitutability between firms influence the manufacturer's channel strategy. We find that if the potential entrant does not produce the complement of the primary product, a higher complementary effect for the complement will weaken the motivation of the incumbent to add an indirect channel. We also find that the incumbent has a stronger incentive to add the indirect channel when a product's substitutability is high. Furthermore, we show that when the two channels have the same pricing power, the incumbent has a stronger incentive to sell through the indirect channel in a higher pricing power environment.
Criterion‐based Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infection: Sensitivity, Specificity, and Predictive Values of Commonly Used Questions
Authors: Murphy Patricia Aikins , Jacobson Janet , Turok David K.
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Practice protocols that mandate prescreening for sexually transmitted infection prior to insertion of an intrauterine device for contraception can pose obstacles for women seeking this highly effective method of birth control. Some practices screen for presumed risk factors for sexually transmitted infection in order to identify those who may be infected or those in whom laboratory testing should be obtained. The value of such criterion‐based screening is unclear.

Methods: Data from a prospective observational trial of offering the copper intrauterine device for emergency contraception were used to assess the value of several screening questions in predicting the presence of sexually transmitted infection. Criteria evaluated were age under 25 years, history of a sexually transmitted infection, and having 2 or more sexual partners in the previous 3 months. The sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratio of both positive and negative test results and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for 3 separate questions as well as for combinations of these 3 questions.

Results: There were 197 women who received a copper intrauterine device for emergency contraception at the same time they were tested for sexually transmitted infection. In this sample, there were 8 cases of Chlamydia trachomatis identified and no cases of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The sensitivity of individual and combined questions in identifying those who were infected ranged from 0% to 88%; specificity ranged from 37% to 97%. The positive predictive values for single or combined screening questions were in the range of 4% to 6%. Likelihood ratios for both positive and negative test results did not change posttest likelihood of disease in any appreciable way.

Discussion: Standard screening questions used to identify sexually transmitted infection risk could presume infection in large numbers of uninfected women and are of little value in identifying the women who are truly infected.
Manipulation of hunger levels affects great spotted cuckoo and magpie host nestlings differently
Authors: Martín‐Gálvez David , De Neve Liesbeth , Pérez‐Contreras Tomás , Soler Manuel , Martínez Juan Gabriel , Soler Juan José
Published: October 2012

Brood parasitic nestlings usually exhibit an exaggerated begging behaviour, which is mainly attributed to reduced inclusive fitness costs since they typically share the nest with unrelated individuals. However, energetic costs also constrain begging expression and accordingly a relation between food requirements and intensity of begging behaviour could also exist in brood parasites, just as in nesting bird species. Here, we tested this hypothesis in the great spotted cuckooClamator glandariusand its main host, the magpiePica pica, by studying the effect of an appetite enhancer, cyproheptadine hydrochloride, on nestling provisioning and development (size, body mass and cell‐mediated immune response). To study nestling provisioning, neck‐collars were meticulously placed around nestling necks allowing normal respiration but avoiding the ingestion of food delivered by adult magpies during ca 2.5 h. Loss in body mass during neck‐collar trials was used as a proxy for energetic begging costs, while the amount of food received during these trials and growth during the whole nestling period were used as variables reflecting short‐ and long‐term effects of the experimental treatment. During neck‐collar trials, we found that experimental nestlings of both species received more food than control nestlings. However, experimental magpies, but not cuckoos, lost more body mass than control nestlings. These results suggest a short‐term beneficial effect of an escalated begging behaviour in both species that would be energetically cheaper for cuckoos than for magpies. We found positive long‐term effects of the appetite enhancer only in magpies (in terms of tarsus and wing length at fledging, but not in terms of immune response and body mass); suggesting that exaggerated begging would be beneficial for hosts only. We discuss the possible effect of begging behaviour on the risk of predation and on inclusive fitness, but also the possibility that our results may be explained by some kind of limitation in the capability of food assimilation by parasitic species.
Eyam and “The Last Great Visitation”
Authors: Fanshawe Tom
Published: October 2012

Great disasters can bring forth great courage. Tom Fanshawe finds that the bravery and self-sacrifice of the men, women and children in a small Derbyshire village 350 years ago have helped to trace the way that epidemics spread and fade.
The reverse sural artery flap for the reconstruction of distal third of the leg and foot
Authors: Olawoye Olayinka Adebanji , Ademola Samuel Adesina , Iyun Kayode , Michael Afie , Oluwatosin Odunayo
Published: October 2012

Soft tissue defects around the distal third of the leg and the foot present a major reconstructive challenge. There is limited expertise with free tissue transfers in many developing countries, necessitating consideration of other options for the closure of such defects. The versatility and reliability of sural artery flap have made it an emerging popular option for the reconstruction of such defects. Twenty patients comprising of 13 males and 7 females with soft tissue defects of the lower third of the leg and foot requiring soft tissue cover were treated between January 2006 and December 2010. The age range was 7–58 years with a mean age of 30 years. Nineteen (95%) of the defects were post‐traumatic while one (5%) was post‐infective. All the defects were covered with reversed sural artery flaps, which were raised on the posterior aspect of the junction of the upper and middle third of the leg. The smallest flap was 4 × 4 cm2 while the largest measured 20 × 12 cm2. The donor defect was closed directly in 7 (35%) patients, while split skin graft was applied in the remaining 13 (65%) patients. There was satisfactory flap healing in 17 patients (85%), while 3 patients (15%) had complete flap necrosis. Two of these patients had significant comorbidities of haemoglobinopathy and poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. Sural artery flap remains a viable option for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the distal third of the leg and foot. Caution should, however, be exercised in patients with some significant systemic diseases.
Impact of Childhood Cancer on Emerging Adult Survivors’ Romantic Relationships: A Qualitative Account
Authors: Thompson Amanda L. , Long Kristin A. , Marsland Anna L.
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Research focusing on the long-term sequelae of diagnosis and treatment for childhood cancer suggests that although the majority of survivors are not at increased risk for psychopathology, many experience persistent problems in other domains that greatly affect quality of life (QoL). One such domain is social functioning. To date, little is known about the impact of childhood cancer on social functioning and related QoL during emerging adulthood, the developmental period that spans the late teens and early twenties and is characterized, in part, by explorations in love and romantic relationships.

Aim

To document emerging adult survivors’ perceptions of their romantic relationships through a descriptive qualitative study.

Main Outcome Measures

Recurrent themes from interviews were extracted via qualitative content-based analysis.

Methods

Eighteen female survivors of childhood cancer, ages 18–25, participated in a phone interview focused on past and present romantic partnerships.

Results

Themes from coded transcripts included redefined life priorities and perspective, concerns with disclosure of cancer history and emotions, negative body image as a result of illness and treatment side effects, and worries about fertility and health of future children. Survivors related these concerns to their histories of childhood cancer and discussed the impact on the development and maintenance of romantic relationships.

Conclusions

Overall, survivors reported a number of relationship concerns that have the potential to interfere with their ability to move toward emotional and physical intimacy in relationships, a key task of emerging adulthood. These findings suggest a number of testable hypotheses for future research, have the potential to inform the construction of new measures that more accurately evaluate social functioning of childhood cancer survivors, and emphasize the importance of ongoing assessment by health care providers of developmentally salient issues like love/romance.
Altered Sexual and Reproductive Functions in Epileptic Men Taking Carbamazepine
Authors: Reis Rosana Maria , de Angelo Alexandre Gonçalves , Sakamoto Américo Ceiki , Ferriani Rui Alberto , Lara Lúcia Alves Silva
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Epileptic men may experience hormonal changes that may alter semen quality and sexual function. Alterations in male sexual and reproductive parameters may also be due to treatment with antiepileptic drugs to control seizures.

Aims

To evaluate serum hormone concentrations, semen quality, the frequency of sexual intercourse (FSI), and erectile function in men with epileptic seizures controlled by carbamazepine (CBZ).

Main Outcome Measures

The five-question form of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), and semi-structured questionnaire.

Methods

One hundred and eighteen men, aged 18–45 years, were included in this controlled, cross-sectional study: 63 men taking CBZ (epileptic group) were compared to 55 healthy men (control group). Blood sample was collected to determine hormones concentrations. Erectile function and the frequency of sexual relations were assessed by using questionnaires. Sperm morphology was analyzed by examining the quality of the head, intermediate part and tail of the spermatozoa.

Results

Using the IIEF-5, we observed a significant association between erectile dysfunction (ED) and groups (P < 0.01), where epileptic men had 17.33 (95% CI 3.59, 83.52) odds to have erectile dysfunction. Adjusted odds ratio to group considering luteinizing hormone, prolactin, Serum total testosterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione levels and free androgen index, we observed only group effect where epileptic men had 10.47 (95% CI 2.75, 39.83) odds to have FSI < 3 times a week. Sperm vitality was altered in 27% of the epileptic subjects compared with 5.4% of the control group (P < 0.002). Sperm motility differed significantly between groups, with A + B motility ≤50% observed in 98.4% of the epileptic group and in 85.4% of the control group (P < 0.01). Sperm morphology <14% was observed in 93.7% of the epileptic men, compared with 34.6% of the controls (P < 0.001). CBZ users, showed less sexual intercourse then controls (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

Epileptic men taking CBZ present with changes in hormonal levels, altered semen quality, ED, and a reduction in coital frequency.
Neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects of thymosin β4 treatment following experimental traumatic brain injury
Authors: Xiong Ye , Mahmood Asim , Meng Yuling , Zhang Yanlu , Zhang Zheng Gang , Morris Daniel C. , Chopp Michael
Published: October 2012

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. No effective pharmacological treatments are available for TBI because all phase II/III TBI clinical trials have failed. This highlights a compelling need to develop effective treatments for TBI. Endogenous neurorestoration occurs in the brain after TBI, including angiogenesis, neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, oligodendrogenesis, and axonal remodeling, which may be associated with spontaneous functional recovery after TBI. However, the endogenous neurorestoration following TBI is limited. Treatments amplifying these neurorestorative processes may promote functional recovery after TBI. Thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4) is the major G‐actin–sequestering molecule in eukaryotic cells. In addition, Tβ4 has other properties including antiapoptosis and anti‐inflammation, promotion of angiogenesis, wound healing, stem/progenitor cell differentiation, and cell migration and survival, which provide the scientific foundation for the corneal, dermal, and cardiac wound repair multicenter clinical trials. Here, we describe Tβ4 as a neuroprotective and neurorestorative candidate for treatment of TBI.
The regenerative peptide thymosin β4 accelerates the rate of dermal healing in preclinical animal models and in patients
Authors: Treadwell Terry , Kleinman Hynda K. , Crockford David , Hardy Mark A. , Guarnera Giorgio T. , Goldstein Allan L.
Published: October 2012

Chronic nonhealing cutaneous wounds are a worldwide problem with no agent able to promote healing. A naturally occurring, endogenous repair molecule, thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4), has many biological activities that promote dermal repair. It is released by platelets at the site of injury and initiates the repair cascade. Tβ4 accelerated dermal healing of full‐thickness punch wounds in various animal models, including normal rats and mice, steroid‐treated rats, diabetic mice, and aged mice. Furthermore, in two phase 2 clinical trials of stasis and pressure ulcers, it was found to accelerate healing by almost a month in those patients that did heal. Tβ4 likely acts to repair and regenerate wounds by promoting cell migration and stem cell mobilization and differentiation, and by inhibiting inflammation, apoptosis, and infection. We conclude that Tβ4 is a multifunctional regenerative peptide important in dermal repair.
Obesity, metabolic dysregulation, and cancer: a growing concern and an inflammatory (and microenvironmental) issue
Authors: Hursting Stephen D. , Dunlap Sarah M.
Published: October 2012

Obesity is an established risk and progression factor for many cancers. In the United States more than one‐third of adults, and nearly one in five children, are currently obese. Thus, a better understanding of the mechanistic links between obesity and cancer is urgently needed to identify intervention targets and strategies to offset the procancer effects of obesity. This review synthesizes the evidence on key biological mechanisms underlying the obesity–cancer association, with particular emphasis on obesity‐associated enhancements in growth factor signaling, inflammation, and perturbations in the tumor microenvironment. These interrelated pathways and processes represent mechanistic targets for disrupting the obesity–cancer link.
Thymosin α1: a novel therapeutic option for patients with refractory chronic purulent rhinosinusitis
Authors: Dalm Virgil A.S.H. , de Wit Harm , Drexhage Hemmo A.
Published: October 2012

Chronic purulent rhinosinusitis (CPR) is an inflammatory condition of unknown origin. Although various medical and surgical treatment modalities are available, 5–10% of patients remain refractory. Immune deficiency is one of the underlying risk factors for this disease. Earlier studies demonstrated disturbances in cell‐mediated immunity and defects in monocyte chemotaxis in CPR. Treatment with the thymic hormone preparation thymostimulin led to significant clinical improvement in patients and in vitro restoration of monocyte chemotaxis. Unfortunately, thymostimulin became unavailable, which has led to recent interest in the immunomodulatory effects of the thymic peptide thymosin α1, which has demonstrated some benefit for CPR. Our current in vitro work focuses on the potential effects of thymosin α1 on monocyte function and gene expression profiles in order to understand its effects and mechanisms of action. Future clinical studies will evaluate the potential significance of thymosin α1 in treatment of CPR patients.
Janus‐faced role of SIRT1 in tumorigenesis
Authors: Song Na‐Young , Surh Young‐Joon
Published: October 2012

Silent mating type information regulation 1 (Sirtuin 1; SIRT1) has been reported to regulate various physiological events, such as aging and metabolism, via deacetylation of histone and nonhistone proteins. Notably, cumulative evidence supports the notion that SIRT1 has a Janus‐faced role in tumorigenesis. SIRT1 contributes to anti‐inflammation, genomic stability, and cancer cell death, and hence it has tumor‐suppressor properties. On the other hand, SIRT1 can stimulate oncogenic signaling pathways and can create a tumor microenvironment favorable to growth and survival of cancer cells. Such dual functions of SIRT1 may be determined, at least in part, by its subcellular localization. Interestingly, SIRT1 displays differential localization in normal cells and cancer cells, which in turn may affect the substrate specificity for its deacetylase activity.
Antioxidant Activity of Free and Bound Compounds in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Seeds in Comparison with Durum Wheat and Emmer
Authors: Laus Maura N. , Gagliardi Anna , Soccio Mario , Flagella Zina , Pastore Donato
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Antioxidant activity (AA) of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) seeds, as well as of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum Desf.) and of emmer (T. turgidum L. ssp. dicoccum Schübler) grains, was evaluated by studying hydrophilic (H), lipophilic (L), free‐soluble (FSP) and insoluble‐bound (IBP) phenolic extracts using the new lipoxygenase/4‐nitroso‐N,N‐dimethylaniline (LOX/RNO) method, able to simultaneously detect different antioxidant mechanisms, as well as using the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) and the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) assays, which measure the scavenging activity against peroxyl and ABTS [2,2′‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonate)] radicals, respectively. The species under study were compared with respect to the sum of AA values of H, L and FSP extracts (AAH+L+FSP), containing freely solvent‐soluble antioxidants, and AA values of IBP extracts (AAIBP), representing the phenolic fraction ester‐linked to insoluble cell wall polymers. The LOX/RNO and ORAC methods measured in quinoa flour a remarkable AAH+L+FSP higher than durum wheat, although lower than emmer; according to the same assays, the IBP component of quinoa resulted less active than the durum wheat and emmer ones. The TEAC protocol also revealed a high AAH+L+FSP for quinoa. Interestingly, the ratio AAH+L+FSP/AAH+L+FSP+IBP, as evaluated by the LOX/RNO and ORAC assays, resulted in quinoa higher than that of both durum wheat and emmer, and much higher than durum wheat, according to the TEAC protocol. This may suggest that antioxidants from quinoa seeds may be more readily accessible with respect to that of both the examined wheat species.

Practical Applications:  Quinoa seeds may represent an excellent source of natural antioxidant compounds and, in particular, of the free‐soluble antioxidant fraction. These compounds may improve nutritive and health‐beneficial properties of quinoa‐based gluten‐free products, thus expanding interest for quinoa utilization from celiac patients to the general population.
Increasing the Applications of Crocus sativus Flowers as Natural Antioxidants
Authors: Serrano‐Díaz Jéssica , Sánchez Ana M. , Maggi Luana , Martínez‐Tomé Magdalena , García‐Diz Luis , Murcia M. Antonia , Alonso Gonzalo L.
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Large amounts of floral bio‐residues (92.6 g per 100 g of flowers) are generated and wasted in the production of saffron (Crocus sativus) spice. Progress in mechanization of saffron crop offer the opportunity to expand the uses of C. sativus flowers, beyond the spice (dried stigmas). The antioxidant potential of flowers of saffron, their separate parts (tepals, stamens, styles, and stigmas) and floral bio‐residues were evaluated by 4 in vitro assays: lipid peroxidation, deoxyribose assay, Rancimat test, and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity. Phenolic content and crocetin ester composition were also determined. All the samples studied showed to be potential antioxidants. The highest phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents were observed in tepals. Stamens showed lower phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents than those of whole flowers, tepals, and floral bio‐residues. Crocetin esters were not found in tepals or stamens. Stamens exhibited the most potent LOO• and OH• radicals scavenging activity, being higher than those of food antioxidant propyl gallate. Flowers of saffron, tepals, stamens, styles, and floral bio‐residues showed LOO•, OH•, and ABTS•− radicals scavenging activity, while stigmas showed LOO• and ABTS•− radicals scavenging activity. All samples studied improved the oxidative stability of sunflower oil in Rancimat test. These antioxidant properties could suggest the application of this floral material as functional ingredients with the subsequent added value.

Practical Application:  Saffron spice, the most valuable spice worldwide, is the dried stigma that only represents 7.4% of Crocus sativus flowers. Other parts of the flowers different to stigmas are discarded. Flower harvest and all the postharvest steps to produce saffron spice are performed manually. Mechanization of flower collection, stigma separation, and dehydration process is a revolution in saffron spice production, which increases the productive capacity making it possible to extend the uses of C. sativus flowers, beyond the production of saffron spice. Flowers possessed high‐phenolic content and excellent antioxidant properties that could contribute to their application as functional ingredients.
Oral Administration of Puerh Tea Polysaccharides Lowers Blood Glucose Levels and Enhances Antioxidant Status in Alloxan‐Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Xu Ping , Chen Hao , Wang Yiqi , Hochstetter Danielle , Zhou Tao , Wang Yuefei
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  The polysaccharides, named puerh tea polysaccharides (PTPS), were isolated from puerh tea. Physicochemical characteristics, hypoglycemic and antioxidant effects of PTPS in alloxan‐induced diabetic mice were investigated. PTPS was found to be a kind of acid heteropolysaccharides conjugate, but the physicochemical characteristics of which were different from the polysaccharides from other kinds of teas in literature. Meanwhile, daily administration of PTPS (40 mg/kg BW) could significantly lower the blood glucose levels, which was not different (P > 0.05) from the effects of metformin (15 mg/kg BW) throughout the entire experiment. Furthermore, after 4‐wk administration of PTPS (40 mg/kg BW), the superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde contents both in serum and liver were improved to the levels of those in normal mice. In regards to the serum GSH‐Px activity, it was even significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that in normal mice, indicating the oxidative stress induced by alloxan could be reversed by administration of PTPS.

Practical Application:  Control of blood sugar levels and inhibition of oxidative stress are suggested to be important in the treatment of diabetes. In the present work, the effects of the polysaccharides from puerh tea (PTPS) on blood glucose levels and antioxidant status in alloxan‐induced diabetic mice were investigated. The information obtained will be valuable for potential application of PTPS in the treatment of diabetes.
Detection of Viable Cronobacter spp. (Enterobacter sakazakii) by One‐Step RT‐PCR in Dry Aquatic Product
Authors: Ye Yingwang , Wu Qingping , Zhang Jumei , Jiang He , Hu Wang
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Cronobacter are opportunistic food‐borne pathogens associated with meningitis, sepsis, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Little attempt has focused on detection of viable cell of Cronobacter spp. in dry aquatic products, which were frequently used for raw materials of infant foods due to high nutrition. In this paper, one‐step reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was developed for detection of viable Cronobacter spp. in dry aquatic products. Specificity test indicated that clearly expected amplicon in size 469bp was amplified from RNA of Cronobacter, but not from RNA of negative controls and DNA of Cronobacter strains. The sensitivity was 104 CFU/mL of Cronobacter strain in artificially fish meal samples and 101 CFU/mL of Cronobacter after 10‐h enrichment. In a total of 81 dry aquatic products, 9.8%, 8.6%, and 9.8% of samples were found to be positive for Cronobacter by one‐step RT‐PCR, U.S. Food and Drug Administration method, and Druggan‐Forsythe‐Iversen medium, respectively. The results clearly indicated that one‐step RT‐PCR could avoid the interference of residual DNA of Cronobacter in food samples and be used to specifically detect viable Cronobacter spp. for large‐scale monitoring of food samples.

Practical Application:  The use of rapid and specific detection of food borne pathogens in food samples was most of importance for control and precaution of food borne diseases. In this study, one‐step RT‐PCR was developed for detection of Cronobacter spp. in aquatic products. A comparison of different methods for detection of Cronobacter indicated that the newly developed method could be widely used to specifically detect Cronobacter spp. in food samples.
Flavor and Antioxidant Capacity of Peanut Paste and Peanut Butter Supplemented with Peanut Skins
Authors: Hathorn Chellani S. , Sanders Timothy H.
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Peanut skins (PS) are a good source of phenolic compounds. This study evaluated antioxidant properties and flavor of peanut paste and peanut butter enhanced with peanut skins. PS were added to both materials in concentrations of 0.0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 5.0%, 10.0%, 15.0%, and 20.0% (w/w). PS, peanut paste, and peanut butter used in the study had initial total phenolics contents of 158, 12.9, and 14.1 mg GAE/g, respectively. Hydrophilic oxygen radical absorbance capacity (H‐ORAC) of peanut skins was 189453 μMol Trolox/100 g and addition of 5% PS increased H‐ORAC of peanut paste and peanut butter by 52% to 63%. Descriptive sensory analysis indicated that the addition of 1% PS did not change intensity of descriptors in the sensory profile of either peanut paste or peanut butter. Addition of 5% PS resulted in significant differences in woody, hulls, skins; bitter; and astringent descriptors and 10% PS addition resulted in significant differences in most attributes toward more negative flavor.

Practical Application:  Peanut skins are a low‐value residue material from peanut processing which contain naturally occurring phenolic compounds. The use of this material to improve antioxidant capacity and shelf‐life of foods can add value to the material and improve the nutritional value of foods. The improved nutritional qualities and unchanged flavor profile occurring with low levels of peanuts skins in peanut paste and peanut butter suggest potential application of this technology in various food industries.
Consumers' intention to use generic-drug discount programmes
Authors: Patel Harshali K , Johnson Michael L , Sansgiry Sujit S
Published: October 2012

Objective

Generic-drug discount programmes (GDDPs) offer generic drugs at subsidized costs to both insured and uninsured consumers in the USA. Understanding predictors of intention to use GDDPs could help in developing interventions to direct more consumers to take advantage of such programmes. The objective of this study was to identify predictors of intention to use GDDPs using the theory of planned behaviour (TPB).

Methods

A paper-based survey was self-administered to randomly selected individuals from the greater Houston area in Texas, USA. The validated questionnaire included potential predictors of intention to use GDDPs that were derived and measured using the premise of TPB and the concept of awareness. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate if awareness, attitude towards GDDPs and generic drugs, perceived behavioural control (PBC) and subjective norms predicted intention to use GDDPs after controlling for demographics, income, number of chronic conditions and number of prescription drugs taken.

Key findings

A response rate of 59.5% was achieved (n = 663). Approximately 62.4% (414) respondents were aware of and 80% (528) had an intention to use GDDPs. After controlling for demographics and predisposing factors (current prescription drug use, chronic conditions and insurance status), attitude towards GDDPs (odds ratio, OR = 5.08; 95% confidence interval, CI = 3.228–8.003; P < 0.0001), attitude towards generic drugs (OR = 1.733; CI = 1.231–2.441; P = 0.0016) and PBC (OR = 1.57; CI = 1.067–2.320; P = 0.0222) significantly predicted intention to use GDDPs. Individuals of Hispanic and African American origin were 3.1 times (P = 0.0016) and 2.6 times (P = 0.0173) more likely, respectively, than white people to have an intention to use GDDPs.

Conclusions

Attitude towards GDDPs and generic drugs, PBC, location and race/ethnicity were significantly associated with intention to use GDDPs. Interventions by stakeholders to promote positive attitudes and highlighting the ease with which GDDPs can be used would be beneficial to eventually increase consumer utilization of GDDPs.
Acute effect of β-sitosterol on calcium uptake mediates anti-inflammatory effect in murine activated neutrophils
Authors: Liz Rafael , Zanatta Leila , dos Reis Gustavo Oliveira , Horst Heros , Pizzolatti Moacir Geraldo , Silva Fátima Regina Mena Barreto , Fröde Tânia Silvia
Published: October 2012

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of β-sitosterol on 45Ca2+ uptake in activated murine neutrophils, and upon myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, in carrageenan-induced inflammation in the mouse air pouch model.

Methods

Dried Esenbeckia leiocarpa bark was macerated and extracted resulting in a crude hydroalcoholic extract (CHE) that was partitioned to obtain an alkaloid fraction. The alkaloid was then partitioned in polar and nonpolar subfractions. β-Sitosterol was isolated from the nonpolar subfraction and identified by comparison with the literature. The effect of β-sitosterol on 45Ca2+ uptake in activated murine neutrophils, and upon myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity, IL-1β and TNF-α levels in carrageenan-induced inflammation in mice were evaluated.

Key findings

β-Sitosterol promoted a time- and dose-dependent increase of the calcium uptake in activated neutrophils that was promptly reversed by nifedipine, BAPTA-AM, LY294002, and colchicine. β-Sitosterol inhibited myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity, and IL-1β and TNF-α levels.

Conclusions

β-Sitosterol inhibited either myeloperoxidase and adenosine deaminase activity or IL-1β and TNF-α levels. This effect seemed to be mediated by the calcium uptake in activated neutrophils in a time- and concentration-dependent manner through L-type voltage dependent calcium channels, intracellular calcium, phosphoinositide kinase-3, and microtubule modulation.
Assessing Blood Pressure Responses to Noncardiovascular Drugs: The Beneficial Role of Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring
Authors: O’Brien Eoin , Turner J. Rick
Published: October 2012

It has become apparent that noncardiovascular drugs can affect blood pressure (BP) in an off‐target manner, either by raising or lowering pressure or by negating the beneficial hypotensive effect of concomitantly prescribed antihypertensives. This paper presents compelling evidence that ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) should be used to detect BP effects during the development of noncardiovascular drugs. The requirements for standardizing ABPM to obtain the most information from the least number of participants and the many advantages of obtaining a 24‐hour BP profile are discussed. The use of ABPM in trials of antihypertensive agents, though differing in purpose (the demonstration of BP‐lowering efficacy) from the use of ABPM in trials of noncardiovascular drugs (the demonstration of any off‐target effect on BP) nonetheless provides methodological similarities that can be applied in both contexts with advantage. The paper also considers whether there are lessons to be learned from a regulatory science approach that is designed to prospectively identify unacceptable off‐target cardiac effects of noncardiac drugs and offers some thoughts on how a future paradigm of standardized use of ABPM to assess off‐target BP effects during the development of noncardiovascular drugs might benefit patient safety.
Humic Substances Delay Aging of the Photosynthetic Apparatus of Chara hispida
Authors: Pörs Yvonne , Steinberg Christian E. W.
Published: October 2012

In freshwaters, dissolved humic substances (HSs) distinguish apparently HS‐avoiding Charophytes from apparently HS‐tolerant ones, but the underlying mechanisms so far remain obscure. In this contribution, we tested direct and indirect effects of HSs on Chara hispida (L.) Hartm. Using Rhodamine B, we showed that C. hispida is able to adsorb or even uptake and, subsequently, desorb and depurate organic compounds in the molecular mass range of the applied fulvic acids. To classify direct and indirect HS‐mediated effects due to reduced light quantities, or to effects more strongly elicited by red relative to blue light, plants were exposed to HSs directly as well as through a neutral foil, or shaded by means of an external HS‐containing reservoir (low‐light variant). We showed that the apparently HS‐tolerant C. hispida exhibited reduced lipid peroxidation and non photochemical quenching of chlorphyll fluorescence when exposed to HSs. Plants directly exposed to HSs were significantly different from control as well as to foil‐shaded plants in terms of chl a+b, VAZ/chl, and β‐Car/chl; yet, in low‐light plants these variables did not differ from control and HS‐exposed plants, suggesting that the shift in favor of red lights in the low‐light variant led to a reduction in its cells' internal antioxidant content. However, the Fv/Fm ratio in HS‐exposed plants decreased more slowly than in all other exposure variants, indicating that the photosynthetic apparatus aged more slowly, by a mechanism yet to be discovered. Our study indicates that both direct and indirect effects contribute to the HS tolerance of C. hispida.
Coalescent and biophysical models of stepping‐stone gene flow in neritid snails
Authors: Crandall Eric D. , Treml Eric A. , Barber Paul H.
Published: October 2012

Marine species in the Indo‐Pacific have ranges that can span thousands of kilometres, yet studies increasingly suggest that mean larval dispersal distances are less than historically assumed. Gene flow across these ranges must therefore rely to some extent on larval dispersal among intermediate ‘stepping‐stone’ populations in combination with long‐distance dispersal far beyond the mean of the dispersal kernel. We evaluate the strength of stepping‐stone dynamics by employing a spatially explicit biophysical model of larval dispersal in the tropical Pacific to construct hypotheses for dispersal pathways. We evaluate these hypotheses with coalescent models of gene flow among high‐island archipelagos in four neritid gastropod species. Two of the species live in the marine intertidal, while the other two are amphidromous, living in fresh water but retaining pelagic dispersal. Dispersal pathways predicted by the biophysical model were strongly favoured in 16 of 18 tests against alternate hypotheses. In regions where connectivity among high‐island archipelagos was predicted as direct, there was no difference in gene flow between marine and amphidromous species. In regions where connectivity was predicted through stepping‐stone atolls only accessible to marine species, gene flow estimates between high‐island archipelagos were significantly higher in marine species. Moreover, one of the marine species showed a significant pattern of isolation by distance consistent with stepping‐stone dynamics. While our results support stepping‐stone dynamics in Indo‐Pacific species, we also see evidence for nonequilibrium processes such as range expansions or rare long‐distance dispersal events. This study couples population genetic and biophysical models to help to shed light on larval dispersal pathways.
Increased Antioxidant Activity and Changes in Phenolic Profile of Kalanchoe pinnata (Lamarck) Persoon (Crassulaceae) Specimens Grown Under Supplemental Blue Light
Authors: Nascimento Luana B. S. , Leal‐Costa Marcos V. , Coutinho Marcela A. S. , Moreira Nattacha dos S. , Lage Celso L. S. , Barbi Nancy dos S. , Costa Sônia S. , Tavares Eliana S.
Published: October 2012

Antioxidant compounds protect plants against oxidative stress caused by environmental conditions. Different light qualities, such as UV‐A radiation and blue light, have shown positive effects on the production of phenols in plants. Kalanchoe pinnata (Lamarck) Persoon (Crassulaceae) is used for treating wounds and inflammations. Some of these beneficial effects are attributed to the antioxidant activity of plant components. We investigated the effects of blue light and UV‐A radiation supplementation on the total phenol content, antioxidant activity and chromatographic profile of aqueous extracts from leaves of K. pinnata. Monoclonal plants were grown under white light, white plus blue light and white plus UV‐A radiation. Supplemental blue light improved the antioxidant activity and changed the phenolic profile of the extracts. Analysis by HPLC of supplemental blue‐light plant extracts revealed a higher proportion of the major flavonoid quercetin 3‐O‐α‐l‐arabinopyranosyl (1→2) α‐l‐rhamnopyranoside, as well as the presence of a wide variety of other phenolic substances. These findings may explain the higher antioxidant activity observed for this extract. Blue light is proposed as a supplemental light source in the cultivation of K. pinnata, to improve its antioxidant activity.
Population Pessimism and Economic Optimism in the Asian Giants
Authors: Golley Jane , Tyers Rod
Published: October 2012

The timing of China’s and India’s demographic transitions and the implications of alternative fertility scenarios are explored here using a global economic model incorporating full demographic behaviour and measures of dependency that accurately reflect the changing proportion of workers, rather than working‐aged, in the total population. The baseline scenario confirms that demographic change in India may yield significant gains to future real per capita income, resulting from a continuing sharp decline in its total dependency ratio. For China, these gains are largely in the past, although the positive contribution of declining youth and working‐aged dependency to future per capita income will continue to offset the negative impact of rising aged dependency through to 2030. Whilst a policy change to foster higher fertility rates and hence more rapid population growth in China might ultimately ease its dependency burden, in the short run it will increase it. In any case, such a course is contradictory to the goal of delivering improvements in real per capita income. For India, we confirm that the benefits of further fertility reductions, in the form of increased real per capita income, are substantial.
Test configurations and Okounkov bodies
Authors: Witt Nyström David
Published: October 2012

We associate to a test configuration for a polarized variety a filtration of the section ring of the line bundle. Using the recent work of Boucksom and Chen we get a concave function on the Okounkov body whose law with respect to Lebesgue measure determines the asymptotic distribution of the weights of the test configuration. We show that this is a generalization of a well-known result in toric geometry. As an application, we prove that the pushforward of the Lebesgue measure on the Okounkov body is equal to a Duistermaat–Heckman measure of a certain deformation of the manifold. Via the Duisteraat–Heckman formula, we get as a corollary that in the special case of an effective ℂ×-action on the manifold lifting to the line bundle, the pushforward of the Lebesgue measure on the Okounkov body is piecewise polynomial.
Lifting, restricting and sifting integral points on affine homogeneous varieties
Authors: Gorodnik Alexander , Nevo Amos
Published: October 2012

In [Gorodnik and Nevo,Counting lattice points, J. Reine Angew. Math.663(2012), 127–176] an effective solution of the lattice point counting problem in general domains in semisimpleS-algebraic groups and affine symmetric varieties was established. The method relies on the mean ergodic theorem for the action ofGonG/Γ, and implies uniformity in counting over families of lattice subgroups admitting a uniform spectral gap. In the present paper we extend some methods developed in [Nevo and Sarnak,Prime and almost prime integral points on principal homogeneous spaces, Acta Math.205(2010), 361–402] and use them to establish several useful consequences of this property, including:

(1)

effective upper bounds on lifting for solutions of congruences in affine homogeneous varieties;

(2)

effective upper bounds on the number of integral points on general subvarieties of semisimple group varieties;

(3)

effective lower bounds on the number of almost prime points on symmetric varieties;

(4)

effective upper bounds on almost prime solutions of congruences in homogeneous varieties.
Developing a Magnetic Resonance-Compatible Catheter for Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: Yao Wei , Schaeffter Tobias , Seneviratne Lakmal , Althoefer Kaspar
Published: October 2012

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a means to guide cardiac interventions and provide excellent soft tissue contrast while avoiding radiation hazards. This paper investigates and evaluates a new Magnetic Resonance (MR)-compatible catheter for cardiac catheterization. Important mechanical properties of the catheter are measured and investigated; these include flexibility, pushability, and torquability. The mechanical performance of the MR-compatible and steerable catheter is benchmarked against three commercially-available clinical ablation catheters that are not MR-compatible. The MR-compatibility of the proposed catheter is also evaluated through an experimental study inside a 1.5 T MRI scanner. The new catheter is shown to have a mechanical performance comparable to that of existing catheters while being MR compatible.
Experimental Study on Combustion Characteristics of Conventional and Alternative Liquid Fuels
Authors: Vukadinovic Vlade , Habisreuther Peter , Zarzalis Nikolaos
Published: October 2012

Gas turbine combustor design relies strongly on the turbulent flame velocity over the whole turbine operation range. Due to the fact that turbulent flame velocity depends strongly on the laminar one, its characterization at different thermodynamic conditions is necessary for further optimization of gas turbines. The Markstein number, which quantifies the response of the flame to the stretch, also has to be considered. Additionally, the Markstein number can be utilized as an indicator for laminar and turbulent flame front stability. Current attempts to replace conventional fuels, such as kerosene, with alternative ones, obtrude their comparison in order to find the most appropriate substitute. Additionally, significant differences in the flame behavior, which could be recognized through different combustion characteristics, can lead to modification of currently used gas turbine design. Even so, the experimental data of alternative fuels are scarce, especially at elevated pressure conditions. So, the combustion characteristics, laminar burning velocity, and Markstein number of kerosene Jet A-1 and several alternative fuels (gas to liquid (GTL) and GTL blends) are investigated experimentally in an explosion vessel. For this purpose an optical laser method is employed based on the Mie-scattering of the laser light by smoke particles. Within this experimental study the influence of three crucial parameters, initial temperature, initial pressure, and mixture composition on the burning velocity and Markstein number, are investigated. The experiments are performed at three different pressures 1, 2, and 4 bar; three different temperatures 100 °C, 150 °C, and 200 °C; and for a range of equivalence ratio 0.67–1.67. The observed results are compared and discussed in detail.