bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pectin–cinnamon leaf oil coatings add antioxidant and antibacterial properties to fresh‐cut peach
Authors: Ayala‐Zavala Jesus Fernando , Silva‐Espinoza B. A. , Cruz‐Valenzuela M. R. , Leyva J. M. , Ortega‐Ramírez L. A. , Carrazco‐Lugo D. K. , Pérez‐Carlón J. J. , Melgarejo‐Flores B. G. , González‐Aguilar G. A. , Miranda M. R. A.
Published: November 2012

There is renewed interest in the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of essential oils as food additives. Among essential oils, cinnamon leaf oil is a potent antibacterial and antioxidant agent; however, the application in food systems can be affected by its volatility. The use of edible films is a good alternative for incorporating antibacterial agents and antioxidants into foods. This study aimed to develop an edible pectin film enriched with the essential oil from cinnamon leaves and prove that this application can increase the antioxidant status and reduce bacterial growth of fresh‐cut peach. Films with different oil concentrations (0.0, 7.3, 15.7 and 36.1 oil g/l) were evaluated regarding eugenol content, thickness, moisture content, water vapour transmission, in vitro antioxidant activity and antibacterial properties of the films. No significant differences were found for the water vapour transmission among the films with different oil concentrations. The higher the added oil concentration the higher the eugenol content and antioxidant capacity; the films with 36.1 g/l were the only materials showing inhibition zones against Escherichia coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. Peaches were positively affected by the coating treatment, increasing its antioxidant status, odour acceptability and decreasing bacterial growth. These results demonstrate that the development of an edible film formulated with cinnamon leaf oil can be useful to preserve fresh‐cut peach quality. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability and consistency of nonhydrostatic free‐surface models using the semi‐implicit θ‐method
Authors: Vitousek Sean , Fringer Oliver B.
Published: November 2012

The θ‐method is a popular semi‐implicit finite‐difference method for simulating free‐surface flows. Problem stiffness, arising because of the presence of both fast and slow timescale processes, is easily handled by the θ‐method. In most ocean, coastal, and estuary modeling applications, stiffness is caused by fast surface gravity wave timescales imposed on slower timescales of baroclinic variability. The method is well known to be unconditionally stable for shallow water (hydrostatic) models when , where θ is the implicitness parameter. In this paper, we demonstrate that the method is also unconditionally stable for nonhydrostatic models, when for both pressure projection and pressure correction methods. However, the methods result in artificial damping of the barotropic mode. In addition to investigating stability, we also estimate the form of artificial damping induced by both the free surface and nonhydrostatic pressure solution methods. Finally, this analysis may be used to estimate the damping or growth associated with a particular wavenumber and the overall order of accuracy of the discretization. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conservation of circulation in SPH for 2D free‐surface flows
Authors: Antuono M. , Colagrossi A. , Le Touzé D. , Monaghan J. J.
Published: November 2012

In this paper, we study how accurately the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) scheme accounts for the conservation and the generation of vorticity and circulation, in a low viscosity, weakly compressible, barotropic fluid in the context of free‐surface flows. We consider a number of simple examples to clarify the processes involved and the accuracy of the simulations. The first example is a differentially rotating fluid where the integration path for the circulation becomes progressively more complicated, whereas the structure of the velocity field remains simple. The second example is the collision of two rectangular regions of fluid. We show that SPH accurately predicts the time variation of the circulation as well as the total vorticity for selected domains advected by the fluid. Finally, a breaking wave is considered. For such a problem we show how the dynamics of the vorticity generated by the breaking process is captured by the SPH model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Kabachnik–Fields and Pudovik Reactions on the Basis of E,Z‐Citral and Its Imines and (R,S)‐Citronellal
Authors: Nizamov Ilyas S. , Yambushev Farid D. , Nizamov Ilnar D. , Voloshina Alexandra D. , Alfonsov Vladimir A.
Published: November 2012

The Kabachnik–Fields reaction of E,Z‐citral with diethyl phosphite in the presence of isobutylamine has been found to form α‐aminophosphonates. The Pudovik reactions of diethyl phosphite with prenyl imines prepared on the basis of E,Z‐citral with isobutylamine also allowed us to obtain the same α‐aminophosphonates. We have managed to synthesize α‐aminophosphonates by the reaction of O,O‐dialkyl trimethylsilyl phosphites with prenyl imines in the presence of water or diethylamine. α‐Aminophosphonates were also synthesized by the reaction of diethyl phosphite with (R,S)‐citronellal in the presence of alkylamines. α‐Aminophosphonates obtained showed bacteriostatic activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 24:36–42, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21060
Pasireotide is more effective than octreotide in reducing hepatorenal cystogenesis in rodents with polycystic kidney and liver diseases
Authors: Masyuk Tatyana V. , Radtke Brynn N. , Stroope Angela J. , Banales Jesús M. , Gradilone Sergio A. , Huang Bing , Masyuk Anatoliy I. , Hogan Marie C. , Torres Vicente E. , LaRusso Nicholas F.
Published: November 2012

In polycystic liver (PLD) and kidney (PKD) diseases, increased cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels trigger hepatorenal cystogenesis. A reduction of the elevated cAMP by targeting somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) with octreotide (OCT; a somatostatin analog that preferentially binds to SSTR2) inhibits cyst growth. Here we compare the effects of OCT to pasireotide (PAS; a more potent somatostatin analog with broader receptor specificity) on: (1) cAMP levels, cell cycle, proliferation, and cyst expansion in vitro using cholangiocytes derived from control and PCK rats (a model of autosomal recessive PKD [ARPKD]), healthy human beings, and patients with autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD); and (2) hepatorenal cystogenesis in vivo in PCK rats and Pkd2

WS25/- mice (a model of ADPKD). Expression of SSTRs was assessed in control and cystic cholangiocytes of rodents and human beings. Concentrations of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (both involved in indirect action of somatostatin analogs), and expression and localization of SSTRs after treatment were evaluated. We found that PAS was more potent (by 30%-45%) than OCT in reducing cAMP and cell proliferation, affecting cell cycle distribution, decreasing growth of cultured cysts in vitro, and inhibiting hepatorenal cystogenesis in vivo in PCK rats and Pkd2

WS25/- mice. The levels of IGF1 (but not VEGF) were reduced only in response to PAS. Expression of SSTR1 and SSTR2 (but not SSTR3 and SSTR5) was decreased in cystic cholangiocytes compared to control. Although both OCT and PAS increased the immunoreactivity of SSTR2, only PAS up-regulated SSTR1; neither drug affected cellular localization of SSTRs. Conclusion: PAS is more effective than OCT in reducing hepatorenal cystogenesis in rodent models; therefore, it might be more beneficial for the treatment of PKD and PLD. (HEPATOLOGY 2013)
Pain‐like behaviour and spinal changes in the monosodium iodoacetate model of osteoarthritis in C57Bl/6 mice
Authors: Ogbonna A. C. , Clark A. K. , Gentry C. , Hobbs C. , Malcangio M.
Published: November 2012

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent, age‐related pain condition that poses a significant clinical problem. Here, in the monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) model of OA, we have characterized pain behaviours and associated changes at the first pain synapse in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord.

Methods

Mice received intra‐articular injections of 0.5, 0.75 and 1 mg MIA and mechanical paw withdrawal threshold was monitored for up to 4 weeks. An intrathecal injection of peptide antagonist calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP8‐37) was given 3 weeks post MIA and paw withdrawal thresholds were measured after 1 and 3 h. Immunohistochemical analysis of the lumbar dorsal horn was carried out and activity‐evoked CGRP release was measured from isolated lumbar dorsal horn slices – with dorsal roots attached.

Results

By 2 weeks after intra‐articular MIA injection, mechanical hypersensitivity was established in the ipsilateral hindpaw. There was no evidence of sensory neuron damage in lumbar dorsal root ganglia 7 days after 1 mg MIA. However, both dorsal horn neuron activation and microglial response (Fos and Iba‐1 immunostaining) but not reactive astrocytes (glial fibrillary acidic protein) were observed. Evoked CGRP release was greater from dorsal horn slices of MIA‐treated mice compared with control. Furthermore, intrathecal administration of peptide antagonist CGRP8‐37 acutely attenuated established MIA‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity.

Conclusions

Intra‐articular MIA is associated with referred mechanical hypersensitivity and increased release of CGRP from primary afferent fibres in the dorsal horn where second‐order neuron activation is associated with a microglial response. Antagonism of CGRP receptor activation provides a therapeutic avenue for the treatment of pain in OA.
A comparison of the effect of mindfulness and relaxation on responses to acute experimental pain
Authors: Sharpe L. , Nicholson Perry K. , Rogers P. , Refshauge K. , Nicholas M.K.
Published: November 2012

Background

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of mindfulness training in comparison with relaxation training on pain, threshold and tolerance during the cold pressor task.

Methods

Undergraduate psychology students (n = 140) were randomly assigned to receive reassuring or threatening information about the cold pressor. Participants were then re‐randomized to receive mindfulness or a control intervention: relaxation training.

Results

Analyses confirmed that the threat manipulation was effective in increasing worry, fear of harm and expectations of pain, and reducing coping efficacy. Interaction effects revealed that mindfulness was effective in increasing curiosity and reducing decentring under conditions of high threat but not low threat. Other interactions on cognitive variables (attentional bias to pain and self‐focus) confirmed that mindfulness and relaxation appeared to exert influences under different conditions (i.e. mindfulness: high threat; and relaxation: low threat). Despite these cognitive effects being discerned under different conditions, there were no differences between mindfulness and relaxation on pain, tolerance or threshold in either threat group.

Conclusions

These results show that a single, brief session of mindfulness based on body scanning is not sufficient to change the way in which individuals approach an experimental pain task in comparison with relaxation, which has previously been shown to be ineffective.
Narrow and scientific replication of ‘The slave trade and the origins of mistrust in Africa'
Authors: Deconinck Koen , Verpoorten Marijke
Published: November 2012

Nunn and Wantchekon (2011) argue that slave trades led to a culture of mistrust in Africa. They regress self‐reported trust from the 2005 Afrobarometer surveys on ethnicity‐specific historic slave exports. Individuals from ethnic groups that experienced high levels of slave exports are less trusting. Causality is demonstrated by instrumenting slave exports using the historic distance of each ethnic group to the coast. Our narrow replication yields identical results. The scientific replication repeats the analysis with Afrobarometer survey data from 2008, which includes two new countries and more ethnic groups. Our replication confirms the results of Nunn and Wantchekon. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of siRNA Targeting c‐Myc and VEGF on Human Colorectal Cancer Volo Cells
Authors: Tai Jiandong , Wang Guangyi , Liu Tongjun , Wang Lei , Lin Chenghe , Li Feng
Published: November 2012

c‐Myc and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) genes are frequently deregulated and overexpressed in this malignancy, and strategies designed to inhibit c‐Myc and VEGF expression in cancer cells may have considerable therapeutic value. In the present study, we design and use short interfering RNA (siRNA) to inhibit c‐Myc and VEGF expression in colorectal cancer Volo cells and validate their effects on cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and cell metastasis. Upon transient transfection with plasmid‐encoding siRNA, it was found that expression of c‐Myc and VEGF was significantly downregulated in siRNA‐transfected cells and the downregulation of c‐Myc and VEGF inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis and metastasis of Volo cells. c‐Myc and VEGF downregulation also increased cell population in the G0–G1 phase. In conclusion, the specific siRNA efficiently silenced the expression of c‐Myc and VEGF, further suppressed the cell proliferation, triggered cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell invasiveness of colorectal cancer Volo cells. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 26:499‐505, 2012;Viewthis article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21455
MRI pyschophysics: An experimental framework relating image quality to diagnostic performance metrics
Authors: Durand Daniel J. , Carrino John A. , Fayad Laura M. , Huisman Thierry A.G.M. , El‐Sharkawy AbdEl‐Monem M. , Edelstein William A.
Published: November 2012

Purpose:

To determine the minimal image quality needed to preserve diagnostic performance relative to arthroscopy in the knee.

Materials and Methods:

Synthetic noise was added to images from clinical MRI scans (three‐dimensional SPACE pulse sequence; Siemens) from five patients who had undergone knee MRI with arthroscopic follow‐up, resulting in 25 simulated sets of images with standardized signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) of 1, 2, 5, 10, or 20. All cases were scored by four musculoskeletal radiologists progressing from low to high SNR and grading all cartilage surfaces, major ligaments and menisci on a 5‐point scale. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed for the detection of meniscal tears and cartilage abnormalities. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was determined for each structure at each SNR level. In addition, reader confidence was measured and pairwise comparisons across SNR levels were performed. Results were compared with arthroscopy as the reference standard.

Results:

ROC AUC was maximized for meniscal tears at SNR = 5 (structure specific CNR = 3.2) and for cartilage abnormalities at SNR = 10 (CNR = 4.2). Observer confidence was maximized for menisci at SNR = 5 (CNR = 8.0), for ligaments at SNR = 10 (CNR = 13.6) and cartilage at SNR = 10 (CNR = 8.2).

Conclusion:

For 3D isotropic imaging in the knee, images with SNR < 10 or CNR < 10 should be rejected as nondiagnostic. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:1402–1408. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiparametric MRI for prostate cancer localization in correlation to whole‐mount histopathology
Authors: Isebaert Sofie , Van den Bergh Laura , Haustermans Karin , Joniau Steven , Lerut Evelyne , De Wever Liesbeth , De Keyzer Frederik , Budiharto Tom , Slagmolen Pieter , Van Poppel Hendrik , Oyen Raymond
Published: November 2012

Purpose:

To prospectively evaluate multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for accurate localization of intraprostatic tumor nodules, with whole‐mount histopathology as the gold standard.

Materials and Methods:

Seventy‐five patients with biopsy‐proven, intermediate, and high‐risk prostate cancer underwent preoperative T2‐weighted (T2w), dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) and diffusion‐weighted (DW) MRI at 1.5T. Localization of suspicious lesions was recorded for each of 24 standardized regions of interest on the different MR images and correlated with the pathologic findings. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to estimate the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive, and negative predictive value for every MRI modality, as well as to evaluate the influence of Gleason score and pT‐stage. Tumor volume measurements on histopathological specimens were correlated with those on the different MR modalities (Pearson correlation).

Results:

DW MRI had the highest sensitivity for tumor localization (31.1% vs. 27.4% vs. 44.5% for T2w, DCE, and DW MRI, respectively; P < 0.005), with more aggressive or more advanced tumors being more easily detected with this imaging modality. Significantly higher sensitivity values were obtained for the combination of T2w, DCE, and DW MRI (58.8%) as compared to each modality alone or any combination of two modalities (P < 0.0001). Tumor volume can most accurately be assessed by means of DW MRI (r = 0.75; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Combining T2w, DCE, and DW imaging significantly improves prostate cancer localization. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:1392–1401. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HIV gag‐specific immune response mediated by double negative (CD3+CD4−CD8−) T cells in HIV‐exposed seronegative individuals
Authors: Restrepo Clara , Rallón Norma I. , del Romero Jorge , Rodríguez Carmen , Sempere‐Ortells José M. , de la Vega Elvira , Soriano Vincent , Benito José M.
Published: November 2012

Double negative (DN) T cells are CD3+, CD4−, CD8− cells with either T‐cell receptors (TCR) αβ or TCR γδ whose importance on protection against HIV infection is unknown. Since HIV‐exposed seronegative individuals correspond to an ideal group in whom correlates of protection are expected, the role of these cells was studied in 13 HIV‐serodiscordant couples in a stable relationship and reporting unprotected sexual intercourses. HIV‐specific immune responses mediated by DN T‐cells were evaluated by measuring intracellular IFNγ and MIP1β (CCL4) production in response to HIV‐Gag peptides. Thirty‐five healthy controls not exposed to HIV were tested similarly and used to define a threshold for positive responses. Interestingly, Gag‐specific DN T‐cell responses were found in 3/13 (23%) HIV‐exposed seronegative individuals (Group A), involving both DN/αβ+ and DN/γδ+ T‐cells through MIP1β and IFNγ production. 4/13 (30%) of partners infected with HIV (Group B) also showed Gag‐specific responses but were mediated exclusively by DN/γδ+ T‐cells, mainly through IFNγ production. DN T‐cells in Group A individuals can display differential HIV‐specific immune responses, which might contribute to the low susceptibility to infection with HIV shown by individuals in Group A. J. Med. Virol. 85:200–209, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving diagnosis of primary cytomegalovirus infection in pregnant women using immunoblots
Authors: Rajasekariah Harshita , Scott Gillian , Robertson Peter W. , Rawlinson William D.
Published: November 2012

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common infectious cause of mental disability in newborns of developed countries. Transmission of CMV from mother to baby is more frequent in maternal primary infection, although CMV reactivation causes more congenital infections overall. Current diagnostic tests for distinguishing primary and reactivation CMV have problems with interpretation and immunoblots may assist with diagnosis. Sera from 60 pregnant women were analyzed using conventional serology in parallel with a commercial immunoblot assay (using Recomblot, Mikrogen Diagnostik). Comparison of detection of CMV IgG, IgM, IgG avidity in maternal primary infection showed the immunoblot relative to conventional serology had sensitivity and specificity of 100% for IgG identification. The detection of IgM on immunoblot showed sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 62.5%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 81.8% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 52.6%. The immunoblot IgG avidity assay had sensitivity of 94.1%, with a PPV of 100% when identifying low avidity serum samples, and sensitivity of 100% with a PPV of 97.1% for high avidity serum samples. Overall agreement between conventional serology (IgM, IgG avidity) and immunoblot (IgM, IgG avidity) for detection of primary CMV infection was 65%. Although the immunoblot is effective in detecting IgG and determining IgG avidity, it showed no significant benefits in performance or utility as a first line diagnostic technique for IgM or primary CMV infection in pregnant women. J. Med. Virol. 85:315–319, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longitudinal study of seroprevalence and serostability of the human polyomaviruses JCV and BKV in organ transplant recipients
Authors: Antonsson Annika , Pawlita Michael , Feltkamp Mariet C.W. , Bouwes Bavinck Jan N. , Euvrard Sylvie , Harwood Catherine A. , Naldi Luigi , Nindl Ingo , Proby Charlotte M. , Neale Rachel E. , Waterboer Tim
Published: November 2012

The human polyomaviruses BKV and JCV cause mostly subclinical infections in childhood. Systemical immunosuppression after organ transplantation can lead to reactivation of persistent polyomavirus infections which may cause rejection of the transplanted organ. BKV and JCV seroprevalence and serostability was measured in 441 European solid organ transplanted recipients. Baseline samples were collected on average 24 days post‐transplantation and sera were then collected over an 18 months follow‐up period on up to six different time points. The overall seroprevalence at baseline for BKV was 97% with very little change over time. Prevalence for JCV was 76% at baseline and increased to 80% at the end of follow‐up. BKV seroprevalence was highest in the youngest age group (100%) and decreased with increasing age (92% in the oldest age group; P < 0.0001), while JCV increased with age (69% vs. 81%; P = 0.020). Antibody reactivities for both BKV and JCV increased significantly with time (P = 0.0002 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Among the 406 patients with several samples, 94% were stably seropositive for BKV and 1% remained seronegative during the follow‐up. JCV antibody stability was somewhat lower: 67% remained stably seropositive and 13% seronegative. While seroprevalence of BKV and JCV decrease and increase with age, respectively, both polyomaviruses showed significant increasing antibody reactivity over time in organ transplanted recipients at the onset of immunosuppression. J. Med. Virol. 85:327–335, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Case of Reye's syndrome accompanied by hemolytic anemia and cardiac injury after cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Qi Ying , Liu Xiaomei , Xu Wei , Ruan Qiang
Published: November 2012

A 6‐month‐old girl with active human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection developed Reye's syndrome after vaccination. She suffered from uncommon complications of HCMV infection, including Coombs‐negative hemolytic anemia and cardiac injury, but recovered after the appropriate treatment with prompt ganciclovir and symptomatic support. However, the patient died later as a result of a viral upper respiratory tract infection, which aggravated the primary disease. This case suggests that HCMV infection might be a causative agent of Reye's syndrome. J. Med. Virol. 85:490–492, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Raman spectroscopic investigation of frozen and deparaffinized tissue sections of pediatric tumors: neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroma
Authors: Devpura Suneetha , Thakur Jagdish S. , Poulik Janet M. , Rabah Rajah , Naik Vaman M. , Naik Ratna
Published: November 2012

Raman spectroscopy is a nondestructive technique that can provide information at the molecular level about the biochemicals in tissues. We have investigated the cellular regions in neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroma using Raman spectroscopy and compared their spectral characteristics with those of the corresponding normal adrenal gland. Thin sections from both the frozen and the corresponding formalin‐fixed paraffin‐processed (FFPP) tissues were studied in conjunction with the pathological examination of the tissues. Investigation of the spectral data shows that the normal adrenal gland tissues have higher levels of carotenoids, lipids, and cholesterol compared with the neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroma frozen tissues. However, in comparison with the frozen tissues, the FFPP tissues show a significant alteration of several biochemicals, including the complete removal of carotenoids, lipids, and cholesterol in the adrenal tissues. A quantitative analysis using chemometric methods of principal component analysis and discriminant function analysis of the Raman spectral data obtained from the frozen tissues show a clear‐cut classification among pathological groups with high sensitivity and specificity. We have validated the classification results of the FFPP tissues against a training set data obtained from the archived FFPP tissues of nine other patients. The validation process correctly identified and grouped the data with the training set of normal adrenal gland (>97% of the time) and neuroblastoma (100% of the time) tissues, whereas the validation was not so strong for ganglioneuroma. This study shows that Raman spectroscopy combined with chemometric methods can be successfully used to distinguish neuroblastoma and ganglioneuroma at cellular level in frozen tissue sections. This study also shows that formalin fixation and paraffinization/deparaffinization of tissues can alter their biochemical composition. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using meta‐analysis to inform the design of subsequent studies of diagnostic test accuracy
Authors: Hinchliffe Sally R. , Crowther Michael J. , Phillips Robert S. , Sutton Alex J.
Published: November 2012

An individual diagnostic accuracy study rarely provides enough information to make conclusive recommendations about the accuracy of a diagnostic test; particularly when the study is small. Meta‐analysis methods provide a way of combining information from multiple studies, reducing uncertainty in the result and hopefully providing substantial evidence to underpin reliable clinical decision‐making. Very few investigators consider any sample size calculations when designing a new diagnostic accuracy study. However, it is important to consider the number of subjects in a new study in order to achieve a precise measure of accuracy.

Sutton et al. have suggested previously that when designing a new therapeutic trial, it could be more beneficial to consider the power of the updated meta‐analysis including the new trial rather than of the new trial itself. The methodology involves simulating new studies for a range of sample sizes and estimating the power of the updated meta‐analysis with each new study added. Plotting the power values against the range of sample sizes allows the clinician to make an informed decision about the sample size of a new trial. This paper extends this approach from the trial setting and applies it to diagnostic accuracy studies. Several meta‐analytic models are considered including bivariate random effects meta‐analysis that models the correlation between sensitivity and specificity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality factors, antioxidant activity, and sensory properties of jet‐tube dried rabbiteye blueberries
Authors: Pallas Laura A , Pegg Ronald B , Kerr William L
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Rabbiteye blueberries are an excellent source of nutrients and phytochemicals. They are often dried, which can degrade health‐promoting compounds. Means of shortening exposure to high‐temperature drying air are desirable. Five cultivars of rabbiteye blueberries (‘Premier’, ‘Tifblue’, ‘Brightwell’, ‘Alapaha’, and ‘Powderblue’) were dried in a jet‐tube fluidized bed air dryer with varying pretreatments including mechanical abrasion and osmotic dehydration.

RESULTS

Drying time ranged from 66 to 95 min at 107 °C, achieving a final water activity of 0.347–0.605. Prior osmotic dehydration significantly reduced the drying time. Vacuum osmotic dehydration for 70 min achieved similar moisture contents to soaking blueberries for 24 h. Jet‐tube dried blueberries exhibited greater color saturation than commercially available blueberries. While drying reduced the total monomeric anthocyanin (TMA) content, this occurred to a lesser extent than by other processing methods. The total phenolics content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (H‐ORACFL values) increased after drying. ‘Premier’ was the most preferred vacuum‐infused dried blueberry, with a water activity (aw) of 0.53 and 157 g H2O kg−1. ‘Tifblue’ was most preferred amongst the overnight‐infused and also unsweetened dried blueberries.

CONCLUSION

Jet‐tube drying can substantially reduce drying times while yielding blueberries with good color, sensory properties, TMA, TPC, and H‐ORACFL values. Furthermore, some cultivars produce better‐quality dried blueberries than others.© 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
FT‐IR and NMR study of seed coat dissected from different colored progenies of Brassica napus–Sinapis alba hybrids
Authors: Jiang Jinjin , Shao Yanlin , Li Aimin , Zhang Yongtai , Wei Cunxu , Wang Youping
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Yellow‐seeded Brassica napus is preferred by breeders for economic reasons, and seed coat is the most obvious comparable character between yellow and black rapeseed.

RESULTS

Owing to an incomplete understanding of chemical components in yellow rapeseed coat, here we optimized a technique based on attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) microspectroscopy to screen differences in chemical compositions of Brassica napus, Sinapis alba and four progeny lines with different yellow seed color derived from somatic hybrids between B. napus and S. alba. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis of seed coat from B. napus and S. alba represented two specific peaks representing components of lignin in B. napus, which were absent in the progenies. Also, the intensity of peaks related to fiber were stronger in B. napus than S. alba and yellow seed lines, indicating the differences of fiber and lignin contents in yellow‐seeded lines and parent lines. Differences in the lipid, protein and carbohydrate features were identified between B. napus and S. alba, some of which were specifically inherited in progenies of the somatic hybrids.

CONCLUSION

FT‐IR spectrometry and NMR provide a rapid, direct bioanalytical technique for exploring the changes in molecular chemistry within the canola seed coat and for selecting rapeseed materials with high quality, which can be further used for breeding or nutrition of human and animals. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Integrated multidimensional and comprehensive 2D GC analysis of fatty acid methyl esters
Authors: Zeng Annie Xu , Chin Sung‐Tong , Marriott Philip J.
Published: November 2012

Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiling in complex fish oil and milk fat samples was studied using integrated comprehensive 2D GC (GC × GC) and multidimensional GC (MDGC). Using GC × GC, FAME compounds – cis‐ and trans‐isomers, and essential fatty acid isomers – ranging from C18 to C22 in fish oil and C18 in milk fat were clearly displayed in contour plot format according to structural properties and patterns, further identified based on authentic standards. Incompletely resolved regions were subjected to MDGC, with Cn (n = 18, 20) zones transferred to a 2D column. Elution behavior of C18 FAME on various 2D column phases (ionic liquids IL111, IL100, IL76, and modified PEG) was evaluated. Individual isolated Cn zones demonstrated about four‐fold increased peak capacities. The IL100 provided superior separation, good peak shape, and utilization of elution space. For milk fat‐derived FAME, the 2D chromatogram revealed at least three peaks corresponding to C18:1, more than six peaks for cis/trans‐C18:2 isomers, and two peaks for C18:3. More than 17 peaks were obtained for the C20 region of fish oil‐derived FAMEs using MDGC, compared with ten peaks using GC × GC. The MDGC strategy is useful for improved FAME isomer separation and confirmation.
Neutralizing antibody against granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor inhibits inflammatory response in experimental otitis media
Authors: Kariya Shin , Okano Mitsuhiro , Higaki Takaya , Makihara Seiichiro , Haruna Takenori , Eguchi Motoharu , Nishizaki Kazunori
Published: November 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis

Granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor is important in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic inflammatory disease. We hypothesized that granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor plays a pivotal role in middle ear inflammation and that neutralization of granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor would inhibit neutrophil migration into the middle ear and production of inflammatory mediators.

Study Design

Animal experiment.

Methods

We used transtympanic administration of lipopolysaccharide, a major component of gram‐negative bacteria, into mice to induce an experimental otitis media. Control mice received injection of phosphate‐buffered saline into the middle ear cavity. Mice were systemically treated with granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor neutralizing antibody or control immunoglobulin G via intraperitoneal injection 2 hours before transtympanic injection of lipopolysaccharide or phosphate‐buffered saline. Middle ear effusions were collected. Concentrations of interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, keratinocyte chemoattractant, and macrophage inflammatory protein‐2 in middle ear effusions were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Histologic examination of the middle ear was also performed.

Results

Transtympanic injection of lipopolysaccharide upregulated levels of granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, keratinocyte chemoattractant, and macrophage inflammatory protein‐2 in the middle ear. Concentrations of cytokines and chemokines were significantly decreased in mice injected with granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor neutralizing antibody. Infiltration of inflammatory cells into the middle ear cavity induced by lipopolysaccharide was also significantly reduced by neutralization of granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor.

Conclusions

Systemic injection of granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor neutralizing antibody inhibits the middle ear inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide in mice. Our findings suggest that granulocyte/macrophage colony–stimulating factor may offer a novel therapeutic target for the management of intractable otitis media.
Standardized letter of recommendation for otolaryngology residency selection
Authors: Perkins Jonathan N. , Liang Conan , McFann Kim , Abaza Mona M. , Streubel Sven‐Olrik , Prager Jeremy D.
Published: November 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Develop a standardized letter of recommendation (SLOR) for otolaryngology residency application that investigates the qualities desired in residents and the letter writer's experience. Compare this SLOR to narrative letters of recommendation (NLORs).

Study Design:

Prospective SLOR/NLOR comparison.

Methods:

The SLOR was sent to an NLOR writer for each applicant. The applicant's NLOR/SLOR pair was blinded and ranked in seven categories by three reviewers. Inter‐rater reliability and NLOR/SLOR rankings were compared. Means of cumulative NLOR and SLOR scores were compared to our departmental rank list.

Results:

Thirty‐one SLORs (66%) were collected. The SLORs had higher inter‐rater reliability for applicant's qualifications for otolaryngology, global assessment, summary statement, and overall letter ranking. Writer's background, comparison to contemporaries/predecessors, and letter review ease had higher inter‐rater reliability on the NLORs. Mean SLOR rankings were higher for writer's background (P = .0007), comparison of applicant to contemporaries/predecessors (P = .0031), and letter review ease (P < .0001). Mean SLOR writing time was 4.17 ± 2.18 minutes. Mean ranking time was significantly lower (P < .0001) for the SLORs (39.24 ± 23.45 seconds) compared to the NLORs (70.95 ± 40.14 seconds). Means of cumulative SLOR scores correlated with our rank list (P = .004), whereas means of cumulative NLOR scores did not (P = .18). Means of cumulative NLOR and SLOR scores did not correlate (P = .26).

Conclusions:

SLORs require little writing time, save reviewing time, and are easier to review compared to NLORs. Our SLOR had higher inter‐rater reliability in four of seven categories and was correlated with our rank list. This tool conveys standardized information in an efficient manner. Laryngoscope, 2013
Self-Reported Oral Symptoms and Signs in Liver Transplant Recipients and a Control Population
Authors: Helenius-Hietala Jaana , Ruokonen Hellevi , Grönroos Lisa , Rissanen Harri , Isoniemi Helena , Meurman Jukka H. , Suominen Liisa
Published: November 2012

Recipients of liver transplantation (LT) receive lifelong immunosuppression, which causes side effects. We investigated self-reported oral symptoms and associated risk factors with the following hypothesis: symptoms and signs would differ between LT recipients of different etiology groups and also between LT recipients and a control population. Eighty-four LT recipients (64 with chronic liver disease and 20 with acute liver disease) were recruited for clinical oral and salivary examinations (median follow-up = 5.7 years). A structured questionnaire was used to record subjective oral symptoms. Matched controls (n = 252) came from the National Finnish Health 2000 survey. The prevalence of symptoms was compared between the groups, and the risk factors for oral symptoms were analyzed. Xerostomia was prevalent in 48.4% of the chronic LT recipients and in 42.1% of the acute LT recipients. This subjective feeling of dry mouth was only partly linked to objectively measured hyposalivation. The chronic transplant recipients had significantly lower unstimulated salivary flow rates than the acute transplant recipients (0.34 ± 0.31 versus 0.61 ± 0.49 mL/minute, P = 0.005). Among the chronic transplant recipients, hyposalivation with unstimulated salivary flow was associated with fewer teeth (17.7 ± 8.2 versus 21.9 ± 8.4, P = 0.047) and more dentures (33.3% versus 12.2%, P = not significant). The chronic patients reported significantly more dysphagia than their controls (23.4% versus 11.5%, P = 0.02). Increases in the number of medications increased the symptoms in all groups. In conclusion, dysphagia was significantly more prevalent among the chronic LT recipients versus the controls. The number of medications was a risk factor for dry mouth–related symptoms for both the LT recipients and the controls. The chronic transplant recipients presented with lower salivary flow rates than the acute transplant recipients. Hyposalivation correlated with generally worse oral health among the chronic transplant recipients. These differences between the chronic and acute LT recipients may have been due to differences in their medical conditions due to the different etiologies. Liver Transpl 19:155-163, 2013. © 2012 AASLD.
Nanoscale Inhomogeneities in Thermoresponsive Polymers
Authors: Kurzbach Dennis , Junk Matthias J. N. , Hinderberger Dariush
Published: November 2012

This article highlights the occurrence and nature of nanoscale inhomogeneities in thermoresponsive polymers and focuses on different experimental techniques for their observation and characterization. Such inhomogeneities can be regarded as nanoscopic domains of collapsed polymer segments (or of a small number of unimers), which provide a nonpolar, hydrophobic interior. Continuous wave (CW) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy on amphiphilic reporter molecules (spin probes) as an intrinsically local technique is particularly emphasized. In combination with different ensemble‐averaging methods, it provides a holistic understanding of the often inhomogeneous nanoscale processes during the temperature‐induced collapse of a thermoresponsive polymer.
Multilattice sampling strategies for region of interest dynamic MRI
Authors: Rilling Gabriel , Tao Yuehui , Marshall Ian , Davies Mike E.
Published: November 2012

A multilattice sampling approach is proposed for dynamic MRI with Cartesian trajectories. It relies on the use of sampling patterns composed of several different lattices and exploits an image model where only some parts of the image are dynamic, whereas the rest is assumed static. Given the parameters of such an image model, the methodology followed for the design of a multilattice sampling pattern adapted to the model is described. The multi‐lattice approach is compared to single‐lattice sampling, as used by traditional acceleration methods such as UNFOLD (UNaliasing by Fourier‐Encoding the Overlaps using the temporal Dimension) or k‐t BLAST, and random sampling used by modern compressed sensing‐based methods. On the considered image model, it allows more flexibility and higher accelerations than lattice sampling and better performance than random sampling. The method is illustrated on a phase‐contrast carotid blood velocity mapping MR experiment. Combining the multilattice approach with the KEYHOLE technique allows up to 12× acceleration factors. Simulation and in vivo undersampling results validate the method. Compared to lattice and random sampling, multilattice sampling provides significant gains at high acceleration factors. Magn Reson Med 70:392–403, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fibromyalgia Family and Relationship Impact Exploratory Survey
Authors: Marcus Dawn A. , Richards Karen Lee , Chambers Janet F. , Bhowmick Amrita
Published: November 2012

Background

Fibromyalgia is frequently associated with impairments in activities of daily living and work disability. Limited data have investigated the impact of fibromyalgia on relationships with family and friends.

Objectives

This exploratory study was designed to survey a large community sample of adults with fibromyalgia about the impact on the spouse/partner, children and close friends.

Methods

A 40‐question, multiple‐choice survey was made available online for a two‐month period, with potential participants recruited through fibromyalgia and migraine community websites. Items included questions about demographics, fibromyalgia symptoms, comorbid mood disturbance and relationship impact, including the Relationship Assessment Scale.

Results

The survey was completed by 6,126 adults who had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Using updated diagnostic criteria from the American College of Rheumatology, 91% satisfied the criteria for fibromyalgia (Fibromyalgia Severity score ≥13 and pain ≥3 months). Half of participants endorsed that fibromyalgia had mildly to moderately damaged relationship(s) with their spouse(s)/partner(s) or contributed to a break‐up with a spouse or partner. Half of participants scored as not being satisfied with their current spouse/partner relationship, with satisfaction negatively affected by the presence of mood disturbance symptoms and higher fibromyalgia severity. Relationships with children and close friends were also negatively impacted for a substantial minority of participants.

Conclusions

In addition to physical impairments that are well documented among individuals with fibromyalgia, fibromyalgia can result in a substantial negative impact on important relationships with family and close friends. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel FHL1 mutation in a family with reducing body myopathy
Authors: Schreckenbach Tobias , Henn Wolfram , Kress Wolfram , Roos Andreas , Maschke Matthias , Feiden Wolfgang , Dillmann Ulrich , Schulz Jörg B. , Weis Joachim , Claeys Kristl G.
Published: November 2012

Introduction: Reducing body myopathy is a rare X‐linked myopathy. It is characterized by intracytoplasmic inclusions that stain with menadione–nitroblue tetrazolium. It is caused by mutations in the FHL1 gene, which encodes the four‐and‐a‐half LIM domain 1 protein (FHL1). Methods: We performed a clinical, muscle MRI, and histopathological characterization and immunoblot and genetic analysis of the FHL1 protein in a family with 4 individuals affected by reducing body myopathy. Results: We identified a novel missense mutation in FHL1 (c.449G>C; p.C150S). The patients presented with asymmetric proximal weakness and scoliosis. Both of the boys had a more severe course with earlier onset, contractures, and death due to heart failure at 14 and 18 years of age, respectively. MRI revealed fatty infiltration of posteromedial thigh and paraspinal muscles. Histopathological findings showed FHL1‐immunoreactive inclusions. Immunoblot analysis revealed a 50% reduction of FHL1 protein. Conclusion: In this study we highlighted diagnostic clues in this myopathy and compared our data with the literature. Muscle Nerve, 2013
Chronic bilateral T1 denervation in women with macromastia
Authors: Ansell Jacqueline R. , Buchholz Michael C.
Published: November 2012

Introduction: The objective of this study was to identify the pattern of neurological deficits and document electrophysiological changes in women with macromastia. Methods: Patients with macromastia and neurological complaints underwent clinical evaluation and electrodiagnostic (EDx) studies of the upper limbs. Results: Findings include low‐amplitude medial antebrachial cutaneous (MACN) sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) and median compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) and chronic denervation changes in the bilateral abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscles on needle electrode examination (NEE), indicating axonal loss in the bilateral T1 distribution. Conclusions: The EDx data are in keeping with lesions involving bilateral T1 anterior primary rami (APR). Potential sites of compromise of the T1 APR are discussed. Further study of the effect of treatment for macromastia on the clinical and EDx findings is proposed. Muscle Nerve, 2013
Myositis with antimitochondrial antibodies diagnosed by rectus abdominis muscle biopsy
Authors: Uenaka Takeshi , Kowa Hisatomo , Sekiguchi Kenji , Nagata Kakuya , Ohtsuka Yoshihisa , Kanda Fumio , Toda Tatsushi
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Antimitochondrial antibodies are autoantibodies detected in 90% of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) patients. Some PBC cases are complicated by myositis, which is difficult to confirm due to minimal histological evidence of inflammation in limb muscles.

Methods

Our aim was to determine the extent of inflammatory changes in a truncal muscle biopsy specimen from a PBC patient.

Results

A 48‐year‐old woman with a 5‐year history of atrial fibrillation and chronic heart failure was evaluated for elevated serum creatine kinase level. Antimitochondrial M2 antibodies were detected, and PBC was diagnosed. A biceps brachii biopsy specimen showed mild, non‐specific myogenic changes; a second biopsy was performed on the rectus abdominis muscle, which showed typical inflammatory changes. Myositis with antimitochondrial M2 antibodies was confirmed.

Conclusions

In myositis patients with antimitochondrial M2 antibodies, muscles of the extremities are involved to a lesser extent. Radiological and histological examination focusing on truncal muscles, including a biopsy, is important. Muscle Nerve 47: 766–768, 2013