bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical significance of intragraft miR‐122 and ‐155 expression after liver transplantation
Authors: Asaoka Tadafumi , Hernandez Dayami , Tryphonopoulos Panagiotis , Tekin Akin , Garcia Jennifer , Nishida Seigo , Fan Ji , Beduschi Thiago , Vianna Rodrigo , Ruiz Phillip
Published: September 2014

Aim

Recurrent hepatitis C (RHC) and acute cellular rejection (AR) remain critical problems following liver transplantation (LT) in hepatitis C virus (HCV) positive recipients because of the similar clinical features. Discrimination between these conditions can be problematic, and adjunctive biomarkers would be useful to discriminate these processes. The aim of our study was to investigate the possibility of the intragraft miR‐122 and ‐155 expression as new biomarkers after LT.

Methods

A total of 29 HCV positive recipients were enrolled in this study. Intragraft expressions of miR‐122 and ‐155 were studied between RHC predominant (n = 17) and AR predominant cases (n = 12) using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, we investigated the correlations between these expression levels and clinical serum parameters.

Results

Intragraft miR‐122 expression had a good correlation with serum alkaline phosphatase (P = 0.02), but it was not correlated with the serum HCV viral load. The expression levels of miR‐122 in the AR group were significantly higher than those in the RHC group (P = 0.0006) and, inversely, the expression levels of miR‐155 in the AR group were significantly lower than those in the RHC group (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Our study emphasizes a useful pattern of miR‐122 and ‐155 as ancillary markers to discriminate AR predominant cases from RHC in HCV positive patients after LT.
Prospective study of the safety and efficacy of intermittent inflow occlusion (Pringle maneuver) in living donor left hepatectomy
Authors: Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Soyama Akihiko , Hidaka Masaaki , Kinoshita Ayaka , Adachi Tomohiko , Kitasato Amane , Kuroki Tamotsu , Eguchi Susumu
Published: September 2014

Aim

The impact of intermittent inflow occlusion (Pringle maneuver) in living donor hepatectomy on the outcome of both the donor and the recipient is unknown. The aim of this study is to elucidate the safety and efficacy of Pringle maneuver in living donor hepatectomy.

Methods

Twenty consecutive cases of living donors who underwent left hepatectomy were prospectively divided into two groups, with (Group A, n = 10) or without (Group B, n = 10) the Pringle maneuver during hepatectomy. Intraoperative blood loss, postoperative liver functions in the donors and recipient outcome were reviewed.

Results

Median blood loss was significantly less in group A than in group B. Median alanine aminotransferase was significantly higher on postoperative day 1 in group A than in group B, but the difference was not significant at 7 days after surgery. Eight of 10 recipients in each group survived with good graft function with a median follow‐up period of 20 months in group A and 19 months in group B.

Conclusion

The Pringle maneuver was safely applied in living donor hepatectomy, but the only benefit was the reduction of blood loss during the donor surgery, and no positive impact on the recipient outcome.
Coping with future epidemics: Tai chi practice as an overcoming strategy used by survivors of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in post‐SARS Hong Kong
Authors: Siu Judy Yuen‐man
Published: September 2014

Background

Although SARS had been with a controversial topic for a decade at the time of this study, numerous SARS survivors had not yet physically, psychologically or socially recovered from the aftermath of SARS. Among chronically ill patients, the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is reported to be widespread. However, extremely little is known about the use of CAM by SARS survivors in the post‐SARS period and even less is known about how the use of CAM is related to the unpleasant social and medical‐treatment experiences of SARS survivors, their eagerness to re‐establish social networks, and their awareness to prepare for future epidemics.

Objective

To investigate the motivations for practising tai chi among SARS survivors in post‐SARS Hong Kong.

Design, setting and participants

Using a qualitative approach, I conducted individual semi‐structured interviews with 35 SARS survivors, who were purposively sampled from a tai chi class of a SARS‐patient self‐help group in Hong Kong.

Results

Health concerns and social experiences motivated the participants to practise tai chi in post‐SARS Hong Kong. Experiencing health deterioration in relation to SARS‐associated sequelae, coping with unpleasant experiences during follow‐up biomedical treatments, a desire to regain an active role in recovery and rehabilitation, overcoming SARS‐associated stigmas by establishing a new social network and preparing for potential future stigmatization and discrimination were the key motivators for them.

Conclusion

The participants practised tai chi not only because they sought to improve their health but also because it provided a crucial social function and meaning to them.
Holy Women and Hagiography in Colonial Spanish America
Authors: Leavitt‐Alcántara Brianna
Published: September 2014

Holy women and hagiography (autobiographies and biographies of saints and holy persons) were defining features of the “spiritual renaissance” that flourished in Spanish American cities during the 17th and 18th centuries. Recently, scholars have expanded their traditional focus upon nuns and convent literature to consider hagiographical texts about pious laywomen, or beatas, among them non‐elite, native, African, and mixed‐race holy women. This article considers recent approaches to holy women and hagiography, which rethink the “marginal” or “subversive” position of beatas and non‐Europeans within colonial Spanish Catholicism. These studies also challenge historiographical narratives about the uniformly repressive nature of Counter Reformation Catholicism and illustrate how priests diversely responded to the intersection of Universal Catholicism and local religion in colonial Spanish America. The scholarship under review suggests that the evangelizing spirit of the Counter Reformation and enthusiastic lay female religiosity, which crossed racial and class lines, fostered more flexible ideals of feminine and non‐European piety than previously imagined. More broadly, these studies rethink approaches to religion that emphasize paradigms of domination versus resistance, dichotomize official and popular Catholicism, and isolate religious experience and practice from broader and more complex colonial contexts.
Consumers' clothing disposal behaviour – a synthesis of research results
Authors: Laitala Kirsi
Published: September 2014

Consumer decisions on clothing disposal are important from an environmental point of view, as they have an effect on the lifespan of clothing, as well as the potential for reuse and recycling. This article summarizes what is known about consumers' clothing disposal behaviour based on empirical literature published during the past 30 years. The goal of this synthesis is to integrate empirical research, find generalizable results, evaluate the used research methods and identify central issues for future research. Most clothing disposal studies concentrate on disposal channels, behavioural motivations, disposal reasons and demographics of consumers that behave in specified ways. Many consumers prefer to deliver clothing for reuse rather than to dispose of them, but convenience is paramount. Common disposal reasons for apparel were wear and tear, poor fit and fashion or boredom, in addition to lack of storage space. Survey methods are most common, which indicates the need of other research designs that preferably include the clothing items in method triangulation. Studied samples are dominated by young women and students, and research on more heterogeneous samples is needed.
Sustainability and consumption structure: environmental impacts of food consumption clusters. A case study for Hungary
Authors: Vetőné Mózner Zsófia
Published: September 2014

Consumption of resource‐intensive food products is increasing in developed countries coupled with an increase of calorie intake. Although the quantity of food consumed is increasing in Europe, there are countries where food consumption is still in a transitional phase. In Hungary, the quantity of food consumed is decreasing compared with the previous decades. This tendency is favourable in environmental terms, although changes in consumption structure need to be analysed thoroughly in order to assess future possibilities. What seems to be favourable on aggregate level is not necessarily desirable on individual level. The paper focuses on food consumption, combining the analysis of food consumption structures and the related environmental impacts measured by the ecological footprint. The study is based on a national survey of a representative sample of 1012 Hungarian adults. Cluster analysis combined by multidimensional scaling resulted in six consumer segments regarding the food consumption structure. Evaluating the related ecological footprint of consumer groups, surprisingly those who consume more fruit, vegetables and dairy products do not have lower ecological footprints, regarding total food consumption. Consumers do not reduce their meat consumption in order to consume more healthy food and decrease the environmental impacts, but consuming more fruits and vegetables appears only to be supplementary. Understanding the revealed typology of food consumption structures in a Central European country can help to reach consumers when these food policy initiatives are undertaken to change the consumption structure and environmental impact of food consumption. Methodology and results of the article connect consumer segmentation and environmental impact measurement in order to discuss opportunities for more sustainable and healthier food consumption.
Dermatology training and practice in Australia
Authors: Sebaratnam Deshan F. , Murrell Dédée F.
Published: September 2014

Background

Dermatology is a relatively young discipline in Australia compared to other specialities within the medical fraternity. From its humble beginnings, the profession has evolved significantly over the decades and is now represented by the Australasian College of Dermatologists which is charged with training the next generation of dermatologists and advocating for and advancing the profession.

Methods

The authors reviewed and describe the history of dermatology training and practice in Australia.

Results

Despite the progress in education, there are only 415 dermatologists serving a population of 23.3 million (1 per 58 000) and yet it has the highest incidence and prevalence of skin cancer in the world.

Conclusions

The scope of clinical practice is wide in Australia, with clinicians well versed in medical and procedural dermatology. It is hoped that Australian dermatology will continue to bolster the dermatology profession globally.
Prefreezing application of whey protein‐based edible coating to maintain quality attributes of strawberries
Authors: Soazo Marina , Pérez Leonardo M. , Rubiolo Amelia C. , Verdini Roxana A.
Published: September 2014

Prefreezing application of whey protein concentrate (WPC)‐based edible coating to maintain quality attributes of strawberries was studied.Beeswax (BW) was added to the solutions (0%, 20% and 40% with respect to the solids contained in the mixtureWPC/glycerol). Coated and control fruits were frozen, stored at −20 °C and thawed. After thawing, weight loss, firmness, microstructure and colour parameters were measured. Coating with 20%BWreduced strawberries weight loss after thawing (55%). Strawberries firmness was maintained equally in all groups analysed although a slight improvement at the cell microstructure alterations caused by the freezing process was observed in coated fruits. Strawberries brightness was similar in all groups. Colour parametera* showed a tendency to decrease with the increasingBWconcentration, and onlyb* of coated fruits was lower than controls. The application of whey protein coating could be an attractive treatment to maintain quality attributes of strawberries undergoing the freezing process.
Topical use of citric acid for wound bed preparation
Authors: Malu Rajendra G , Nagoba Basavraj S , Jaju Chetan R , Suryawanshi Namdev M , Mali Santosh A , Goyal Vishav S , Misal Nikhil S
Published: September 2014

Wound bed preparation is the management of a wound in order to accelerate endogenous healing or to facilitate the effectiveness of split‐skin grafting. The formation of a healthy wound bed is a prerequisite to the use of advanced wound care products. Unless this is achieved, even the most sophisticated and expensive materials are unlikely to function correctly. An attempt has been made to use 3% citric acid ointment for wound bed preparation to prepare wound for grafting in five cases of wounds with large raw areas infected with multiple antibiotic‐resistant bacteria.
Two Is Best? The Persistence of a Two‐Child Family Ideal in Europe
Authors: Sobotka Tomáš , Beaujouan Éva
Published: September 2014

How persistent and universal has the two child family ideal been in Europe during the last three decades? We analyze responses of women of reproductive age from 168 surveys conducted in 37 countries in 1979–2012. A two‐child ideal has become nearly universal among women in all parts of Europe. Countries that used to display higher ideal family size have converged over time toward a two‐child model. Six out of ten women in Europe consider two children as ideal, and this proportion is very similar in different regions. The mean ideal family size has become closely clustered around 2.2 in most countries. Gradual shifts can be documented toward more women expressing an ideal of having one child (and, quite rarely, having no children) and a parallel decline in an ideal of three or more children. An increasing number of European countries saw their mean ideal family size falling to relatively low levels around 1.95–2.15. However, with the exception of one survey for eastern Germany and two of the surveys not included in our study owing to high nonresponse or low sample size, none of the analyzed surveys suggests a decline in mean ideal family size to levels considerably below replacement, i.e., below 1.9 children per woman.
Two Decades of Negative Educational Selectivity of Mexican Migrants to the United States
Authors: Rendall Michael S. , Parker Susan W.
Published: September 2014

Immigration is commonly considered to be selective of more educated individuals. Previous US studies comparing the educational attainment of Mexican immigrants in the United States to that of the Mexican resident population support this characterization. Upward educational‐attainment biases in both coverage and measurement, however, may be substantial in US data sources. Moreover, differences in educational attainment by place size are very large within Mexico, and US data sources provide no information on immigrants' places of origin within Mexico. To address these problems, we use multiple sources of nationally representative Mexican survey data to re‐evaluate the educational selectivity of working‐age Mexican migrants to the United States over the 1990s and 2000s. We document disproportionately rural and small‐urban‐area origins of Mexican migrants and a steep positive gradient of educational attainment by place size. We show that together these conditions induced strongly negative educational selection of Mexican migrants throughout the 1990s and 2000s. We interpret this finding as consistent with low returns to education among unauthorized migrants and few opportunities for authorized migration.
Popular Moralities and Institutional Rationalities in Malawi's Struggle Against AIDS
Authors: Angotti Nicole , Frye Margaret , Kaler Amy , Poulin Michelle , Watkins Susan Cotts , Yeatman Sara
Published: September 2014

The AIDS epidemic in sub‐Saharan Africa is fertile ground for examining how moral evaluations evolve over time and across different settings. We compare the discourse on AIDS in Malawi as presented in the media with that of everyday conversations. Drawing on two sets of texts, newspaper articles and conversational journals, produced over a ten‐year period from 1999 through 2008, we analyze their moral injunctions, or what individuals should or should not do in response to the AIDS epidemic. The predominant injunctions in the early years in both sources were premarital abstinence and marital fidelity. Following the introduction of HIV testing and treatment, however, the discourses diverged. Discourse in the media turned toward moral injunctions requiring individuals to interact with authoritative institutions; thus the conceptual center of gravity of the struggle against AIDS in the media shifted from collectivities of individuals to collectivities of institutions. Rural Malawians, however, received these moral injunctions with great skepticism and continued to advise each other to prevent death by controlling one's sexual appetites.
Sequential Separation of Uranium, Hafnium and Neodymium from Natural Waters Concentrated by Iron Coprecipitation
Authors: Arendt Carli A. , Aciego Sarah M. , Sims Kenneth W.W. , Robbins Mark
Published: September 2014

A new ion exchange chromatography method is presented for the isolation of high field‐strength elements (HFSE) from freshwater and seawater samples that have undergone iron coprecipitation. Large volumes of water can be condensed through the application of iron coprecipitation, but clean separation of elements from the precipitate proves difficult. The technique described is a five‐column process designed to separate the HFSE, including rare earth elements such as neodymium and hafnium, before removing the iron and isolating uranium. Subsequent isolation of Nd and Hf was achieved using established ion exchange chromatography methods. The efficacy of our chemistry was verified by measurements of analytical reference materials – both reference solutions and seawater samples – subjected to the chemical separation methods described. Elution results indicate high yields (> 90%) determined by concentration measurements of a known reference material added to each column. Measurement results for isotopic compositions of seawater (U, Nd) and reference solutions (NIST SRM 960, U) were identical within uncertainty to previously published values. Compositions were identical between solutions (Spex CLMS3, Spex PLND2) that underwent different iron coprecipitation procedures. Isotopic determinations for reference materials JNdi‐1 and NIST SRM 960 measured with the mass spectrometers used in this study were in agreement with universally accepted values for these materials, and indicate high precision.
Non‐invasive short‐term assessment of retinoids effects on human skin in vivo using multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Tancrède‐Bohin E. , Baldeweck T. , Decencière E. , Brizion S. , Victorin S. , Parent N. , Faugere J. , Souverain L. , Bagot M. , Pena A‐M.
Published: September 2014

Background

The occlusive patch test developed for assessing topical retinoids activity in human skin has been extended as a short‐term screening protocol for anti‐ageing agents. In this model, biopsies are performed at the end of the occlusion period for morphological and immuno‐histochemistry analysis. Multiphoton microscopy is a recent non‐invasive imaging technique that combined with image processing tools allows the in vivo quantification of human skin modifications.

Objective

To validate with gold standards of anti‐ageing that are retinoids, the relevance of multiphoton microscopy for kinetic and quantitative assessment in this model.

Methods

Twenty women, aged 50–65 years, were enrolled. Retinol 0.3% (RO) and Retinoic acid 0.025% (RA) were applied to the dorsal photo‐damaged side of their forearm under occlusive patches for 12 days. A patch alone was applied to a third area as control. Evaluation was performed at day D0, D12 (end of treatment), D18 and D32 using multiphoton microscopy. Epidermal thickness, normalized area of the dermal‐epidermal junction (DEJ) and melanin density were estimated using 3D image processing tools.

Results

Main significant results are:

Epidermal thickening at D12, D18 and D32 with RO and at D12, D18 with RA vs. baseline and vs. control.

Increased DEJ undulation at D32 with RO and at D12 with RA vs. baseline and vs. control.

Decreased melanin content with RO (at D12 and D18 vs. baseline and at D32 vs. baseline and vs. control) and with RA (at D12 vs. baseline).

Conclusions

This study shows that multiphoton microscopy associated to specific 3D image processing tools allows cutaneous effects induced by topical retinoids in this in vivo model to be non‐invasively detected, quantified and followed over time. This innovative approach could be applied to the evaluation of other active compounds.
Comparison of efficacy and safety profile of topical calcipotriol ointment in combination withNB‐UVBvs.NB‐UVBalone in the treatment of vitiligo: a 24‐week prospective right–left comparative clinical trial
Authors: Khullar G. , Kanwar A.J. , Singh S. , Parsad D.
Published: September 2014

Background

Narrow‐band ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) is an effective and safe treatment for vitiligo. Calcipotriol, a synthetic analogue of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 may regulate melanin synthesis. Several clinical studies have been conducted but the synergistic effect of addition of calcipotriol toNB‐UVBin the treatment of vitiligo is still debatable.

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and safety of topical calcipotriol (0.005%) in combination withNB‐UVBvs.NB‐UVBalone in generalized vitiligo.

Methods

A prospective right–left comparative study including 27 patients of vitiligo was conducted for 24 weeks. On one side, calcipotriol was applied twice a day.NB‐UVBwas administered thrice a week. Response to treatment was assessed using change in Lund and Browder (L&B) score for percentage reduction in body surface area, investigator's global assessment (IGA) and patient's global assessment (PGA) scores. Treatment related side effects were noted.

Results

Mean percentage reduction in L&B score at 24 weeks was 51.4% onNB‐UVBand 49% onNB‐UVBplus calcipotriol side (P = 0.557), meanIGAscore onNB‐UVBwas 2.7 ± 0.5 and onNB‐UVBplus calcipotriol was 2.6 ± 0.4 (P = 0.821) and meanPGAscore onNB‐UVBside was 5.6 ± 3.4 and onNB‐UVBplus calcipotriol side was 5.8 ± 3.2 (P = 0.706). Perifollicular repigmentation that matched with the surrounding normal skin colour was seen in majority of patients on both treatment sides. Calcipotriol produced mild local adverse effects.

Conclusions

Addition of calcipotriol toNB‐UVBprobably does not enhance the efficacy of treatment including extent of repigmentation and time to initial repigmentation. Larger, randomized placebo‐controlled trials are required to determine whether addition of calcipotriol has any utility when administered withNB‐UVBin the treatment of vitiligo.
Immunohistochemical expression of VDR is associated with reduced integrity of tight junction complex in psoriatic skin
Authors: Visconti B. , Paolino G. , Carotti S. , Pendolino A.L. , Morini S. , Richetta A.G. , Calvieri S.
Published: September 2014

Background

Cell junctions are crucial for the formation and maintenance of the paracellular barrier and for cell polarity in simple epithelia and endothelia. Altered localization and formation of tissue junction proteins in the epidermis have been described in plaque‐type psoriasis. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) is a nuclear hormone involved in anti‐proliferative and pro‐differentiation pathways in keratinocytes. However, still to date, vitamin D/VDR signalling involved in tissue barrier related to psoriasis remains largely unknown.

Objective

To study the expression of VDR and tight junctions (TJ) proteins (claudin 1, ZO‐1 and occludin) in psoriatic skin, and to correlate the expression of VDR with that of the junctional proteins claudin‐ 1, occludin and ZO‐ 1.

Methods

A total of 20 psoriatic tissue samples were included in the analysis. Immunohistochemical studies for VDR, claudin‐1, occludin and ZO‐1 were performed.

Results

We observed a reduction of VDR, claudin‐1 and ZO‐1 expression in psoriatic skin if compared to normal skin, and the statistical analysis showed a significant correlation between a downgrading of VDR expression and that of claudin‐1 (P < 0.005) and ZO‐1(P < 0.005).

Conclusions

Our results suggest a new role of VDR in the maintenance of the homeostasis skin barrier. Although the exiguity of our cohort, VDR status appears to be associated with the expression level and functions of TJ proteins, suggesting multiple and different cellular functions of the VDR.
Evaluation of mirid predatory bugs and release strategy for aphid control in sweet pepper
Authors: Messelink G. J. , Bloemhard C. M. J. , Hoogerbrugge H. , van Schelt J. , Ingegno B. L. , Tavella L.
Published: September 2014

Zoophytophagous predators of the family Miridae (Heteroptera), which feed both on plant and prey, often maintain a close relationship with certain host plants. In this study, we aimed to select a suitable mirid predatory bug for aphid control in sweet pepper. Four species were compared: Macrolophus pygmaeus (Rambur), Dicyphus errans (Wolff), Dicyphus tamaninii Wagner and Deraeocoris pallens (Reuter). They were assessed on their establishment on sweet pepper plants with and without supplemental food (eggs of the flour moth Ephestia kuehniella Zeller and decapsulated cysts of the brine shrimp Artemia franciscana Kellogg) and on their effects on aphids with releases before and after aphid infestations. None of the predator species was able to control an established population of aphids on sweet pepper plants; however, the predators M. pygmaeus and D. tamaninii could successfully reduce aphid populations when released prior to an artificially introduced aphid infestation. The best results were achieved with M. pygmaeus in combination with a weekly application of supplemental food. Hence, our results demonstrate that the order and level of plant colonization by mirid predators and aphids determines how successful biological control is. Further studies are needed to evaluate the performance of mirid predatory bugs in sweet pepper crops in commercial greenhouses with multiple pests and natural enemies, in particular to understand how increased variation in food sources affects their feeding behaviour and preferences.
Quercetin Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier for Food Fortification: Preparation, Characterization and in vitro Study
Authors: Ni Shilei , Sun Rui , Zhao Guodong , Xia Qiang
Published: September 2014

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) have been developed for encapsulation of bioactive flavonoids such as quercetin (QT). In this study, QT‐NLC was prepared by high‐pressure homogenization method. For the optimized QT‐NLC, the average particle size, the zeta potential and the average entrapment efficiency were 129 ± 12.13 nm, −26 ± 4 mV and 93.50 ± 0.35%, respectively. The developed QT‐NLC had good physical stability at ambient temperature condition. In vitro antioxidant activities assays showed comparable antioxidant activity of QT‐NLC to free QT. Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy analysis of QT‐NLC confirmed encapsulation of QT in NLC and no chemical interaction between QT and lipid matrix. Lyophilization was proved feasible for the storage of QT‐NLC dispersion. The in vitro release study in simulated gastrointestinal fluids showed a sustained release profile of QT‐NLC. The release of the QT‐NLC in simulated gastric fluids and simulated intestinal fluids was best fitted to Higuchi and Rigter‐Peppas model, respectively. The gastrointestinal tract model indicated that the bioaccessibility of QT within simulated small intestinal conditions was improved by encapsulation. The QT‐NLC also showed potential application in soft beverage. Particle size remained relatively steady in simulated beverage solutions for 2 months. It demonstrated that nanostructure lipid carriers could be designed as delivery system for encapsulation of bioactive compounds and applied in functional food industries.

Practical Applications

Quercetin (QT) is one of the most common dietary polyphenols widely found in the plant kingdom, which has numerous benefits to human body. But due to its low solubility and unstability when exposed to alkaline media, photo and warm temperature, its application in the food industry is limited. This research aims at incorporating QT into nanostructure lipid carriers manufactured by high‐pressure homogenization method for improved bioaccessibility and achieving its application in food such as soft beverage.
Celery Juice Powder Used as Nitrite Substitute in Sliced Vacuum‐Packaged Turkey Bologna Stored at 4C for 10 Weeks Under Retail Display Light
Authors: Djeri N. , Williams S.K.
Published: September 2014

Antimicrobial and physicochemical properties of cherry powder (CH) and celery powder containing pre‐generated nitrite (celery juice powder, CJP) were evaluated in turkey bologna with 156 ppm modern cure/550 ppm sodium erythorbate (control–T1), 0.20% CJP (T2), 0.20% CJP/0.20% CH (T3), or 156 ppm CJP/469 ppm CH (T4). T4 had “vegetable/woody” aftertaste with lower (P < 0.05) appearance, aroma and overall acceptability than all other treatments. Lactic acid bacteria were similar for T1 and T4 during 4–10 weeks. T4 had lower (P < 0.05) anaerobic counts and L* values, and higher a*, b* and chroma than all other treatments. T2 had greater (P < 0.05) hue angles than TI and T4 during storage. Thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (except weeks 4 and 5), pH, fat and ash were similar among all treatments. Moisture was higher (P < 0.05) for T4 than all other treatments, which was attributed to CJP content of at least 50% carbohydrate and 8.0% crude protein. T4 had similar antimicrobial properties, but lacked flavor and color of T1, which suggested additional purification of CJP to reduce carbohydrate.

Practical Application

The healthy perception associated with natural and organic food products has led to a significant increase in their production because of consumer demand. However, it is imperative that natural products are safe, wholesome and of the same quality as their conventional counterparts. This is especially true for ready‐to‐eat processed vacuum‐packaged cured meat products. This research will have major impact on food safety and quality for the food processor as well as the consuming public.
Forecasting Replacement Demand of Durable Goods and the Induced Secondary Material Flows: A Case Study of Automobiles
Authors: Kagawa Shigemi , Nakamura Shinichiro , Kondo Yasushi , Matsubae Kazuyo , Nagasaka Tetsuya
Published: September 2014

The aim of this article is to propose a method for forecasting future secondary material flows by combining a product lifetime distribution analysis with a waste input‐output analysis and present a simple case study of automobiles. The case study demonstrates that the proposed method enables us to estimate replacement demand of new vehicles, number of end‐of‐life (EOL) vehicles arising from the aging of vehicles, volume of shredder scraps recovered from EOL vehicles, and volume of shredder scraps required to meet final consumption in the future.
Sensitization of ethanol‐induced place preference as a result of up‐regulation of type 1 inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptors in mouse nucleus accumbens
Authors: Kurokawa Kazuhiro , Mizuno Koji , Ohkuma Seitaro
Published: September 2014

This study involved mice that received 4 days of ethanol (EtOH) vapor inhalation and then were assessed for type 1 inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor (IP3Rs‐1) expression and the development of EtOH‐induced place preference at various time points in withdrawal. IP3R‐1 protein was found to be significantly increased in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) of mice immediately after 4‐day EtOH vapor inhalation, while it significantly reduced to the control level during the next 3 days of withdrawal from EtOH inhalation. EtOH (2 g/kg, i.p.)‐induced place preference after 3 days of withdrawal from EtOH vapor inhalation increased dose dependently for 4 days, which was significantly inhibited by 2‐aminophenoxyethane‐borate, an antagonist for IP3Rs. EtOH conditioning significantly increased, compared to alcohol‐naïve control mice, both IP3R‐1 protein and the release of dopamine in the NAcc of mice after 3 days of withdrawal from EtOH vapor inhaled for 4 days, and this increase of IP3R‐1 protein was completely abolished by intracerebroventricular injection of FK506, an inhibitor for calcineurin. These results indicate that the sensitization of EtOH‐induced place preference is due to up‐regulated IP3R‐1 via calcineurin‐mediated pathway after enhanced release of dopamine in the NAcc on EtOH administration during EtOH conditioning.

image

We revealed signal transduction pathways that may promote sensitization of ethanol (EtOH)‐induced place preference. EtOH facilitated the release of dopamine (DA) in the Nucleus accumbens (NAcc), enhancing calcineurin function via dopamine D1‐like and D2‐like receptor activation, which in turn resulted in increased NFATc4 expression. Increase in NFATc4 may further facilitate transcription factor binding to IP3R‐1 promoter domain to stimulate IP3R‐1 synthesis. Such increased IP3R‐1 elevates intracellular Ca2+ concentration via facilitated mobilization of Ca2+ from the intracellular Ca2+ stores to the cytosol.
Adenosine transiently modulates stimulated dopamine release in the caudate–putamen via A1 receptors
Authors: Ross Ashley E. , Venton B. Jill
Published: September 2014

Adenosine modulates dopamine in the brain via A1 and A2A receptors, but that modulation has only been characterized on a slow time scale. Recent studies have characterized a rapid signaling mode of adenosine that suggests a possible rapid modulatory role. Here, fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry was used to characterize the extent to which transient adenosine changes modulate stimulated dopamine release (5 pulses at 60 Hz) in rat caudate–putamen brain slices. Exogenous adenosine was applied and dopamine concentration monitored. Adenosine only modulated dopamine when it was applied 2 or 5 s before stimulation. Longer time intervals and bath application of 5 μM adenosine did not decrease dopamine release. Mechanical stimulation of endogenous adenosine 2 s before dopamine stimulation also decreased stimulated dopamine release by 41 ± 7%, similar to the 54 ± 6% decrease in dopamine after exogenous adenosine application. Dopamine inhibition by transient adenosine was recovered within 10 min. The A1 receptor antagonist 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine blocked the dopamine modulation, whereas dopamine modulation was unaffected by the A2A receptor antagonist SCH 442416. Thus, transient adenosine changes can transiently modulate phasic dopamine release via A1 receptors. These data demonstrate that adenosine has a rapid, but transient, modulatory role in the brain.

image

Here, transient adenosine was shown to modulate phasic dopamine release on the order of seconds by acting at the A1 receptor. However, sustained increases in adenosine did not regulate phasic dopamine release. This study demonstrates for the first time a transient, neuromodulatory function of rapid adenosine to regulate rapid neurotransmitter release.
Hollow Lives: Women Left Behind in RuralChina
Authors: Wu Huifang , Ye Jingzhong
Published: September 2014

This paper explores the situation of women left behind in villages when men out‐migrate for work and what it implies for gender relations in ruralChina. It is based on questionnaire survey data that covers 400 left‐behind women and extensive interviews in 10 rural communities. It reveals how the women take on multiple family responsibilities including mainly family care and agricultural production, and how they maintain their marital relationships in the context of a long separation. The discussion argues that even though the women's unpaid work becomes visible due to the absence of men in family life, there is a reaffirmation and reinforcement of gender traditions; women are more solidified in the unpaid and low‐paid field of work in this new era of rural social transition inChina. Moreover, separated married life has made women more vulnerable. In the end, it points to the fact that rural women are experiencing a new and deeper form of exploitation of their labour. Thus they are among those paying a heavy price for the development inChina.
Evaluation of lactate dehydrogenase enzyme activity in saliva and serum of oral submucous fibrosis patients
Authors: Sivaramakrishnan M. , Sivapathasundharam B. , Jananni M.
Published: September 2014

Background

Of all oral precancerous conditions, Oral Submucous Fibrosis is of greater concern because of its disabling nature and relative greater chances of malignant transformation. This malignant transformation involves glycolytic pathways that can alter lactate dehydrogenase levels. Therefore the aim of this study was to estimate the LDH levels in saliva and serum of subjects with OSMF and to compare them with healthy controls and to correlate the relationship between pathogenesis of OSMF and the LDH enzyme.

Methods

Sixty Subjects were recruited for this study and divided into two groups, 30 subjects with OSMF (Group A) and 30 healthy controls (Group B). Venous blood and unstimulated whole saliva measuring 1 ml was collected from each of these evaluated for LDH levels using the standard kit method. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using the SPSS software version 17.

Results

The average salivary LDH value for Group A was 606.83 ± 60.09 U/l and for Group B was 80.73 ± 20.06 U/l. salivary LDH was greater in group A than Group B and this was statistically significant. On comparing the serum and salivary LDH in Group A with the clinical staging of OSMF, the results were not statistically significant. Similarly no statistically significant relationship was found on comparing the serum and salivary LDH in Group A (OSMF subjects) with duration of habit.

Conclusion

This study provides additional rationale for the role of salivary LDH in the early diagnosis and prognosis of oral submucous fibrosis.
Clinical Marginal and Internal Fit of Crowns Fabricated Using Different CAD/CAM Technologies
Authors: Huang Zhuoli , Zhang Lu , Zhu Jingwei , Zhao Yiwei , Zhang Xiuyin
Published: September 2014

Purpose

The aims of this in vivo investigation were to compare the marginal and internal fit of single‐unit crowns fabricated using a selective laser melting (SLM) procedure with two CAD/CAM grinding procedures, and to evaluate the influence of tooth type on the parameters measured.

Materials and Methods

A total of 270 crowns were evaluated, including 90 SLM metal‐ceramic crowns (group B), 90 zirconium‐oxide‐based ceramic crowns (group L), and 90 lithium disilicate ceramic crowns (group C). The marginal and internal gaps of the crowns were recorded using a replica technique with a silicone indicator paste stabilized with a light‐body silicone. The gap replica specimen were sectioned buccolingually and mesiodistally and then examined using a stereomicroscope at 30× magnification. Ten reference points were measured on each anterior and premolar specimen, and 20 reference points were measured on each molar specimen. Two‐way ANOVA was performed to identify the significant differences between the groups.

Results

The mean marginal fit of group B was significantly better than those of group C and group L (p < 0.005), but a significant difference was not found between group C and group L (p > 0.05). The mean axial gap of group B was significantly smaller than those of group C and group L (p < 0.01), while group C was not different from group L (p > 0.05). The mean occlusal gap of group B was significantly higher than those of group C and group L (p < 0.05), and no difference was found between group C and group L (p > 0.05). The marginal and internal gaps of crowns varying according to tooth type were not significantly different (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The SLM system demonstrated better marginal and internal fit compared to the two CAD/CAM grinding systems examined. Tooth type did not significantly influence the marginal or internal fit.
Surface Coating of Gypsum‐Based Molds for Maxillofacial Prosthetic Silicone Elastomeric Material: The Surface Topography
Authors: Khalaf Salah , Ariffin Zaihan , Husein Adam , Reza Fazal
Published: September 2014

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the surface roughness of maxillofacial silicone elastomers fabricated in noncoated and coated gypsum materials. This study was also conducted to characterize the silicone elastomer specimens after surfaces were modified.

Materials and Methods

A gypsum mold was coated with clear acrylic spray. The coated mold was then used to produce modified silicone experimental specimens (n = 35). The surface roughness of the modified silicone elastomers was compared with that of the control specimens, which were prepared by conventional flasking methods (n = 35). An atomic force microscope (AFM) was used for surface roughness measurement of silicone elastomer (unmodified and modified), and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to evaluate the topographic conditions of coated and noncoated gypsum and silicone elastomer specimens (unmodified and modified) groups. After the gypsum molds were characterized, the fabricated silicone elastomers molded on noncoated and coated gypsum materials were evaluated further. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis of gypsum materials (noncoated and coated) and silicone elastomer specimens (unmodified and modified) was performed to evaluate the elemental changes after coating was conducted. Independent t test was used to analyze the differences in the surface roughness of unmodified and modified silicone at a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results

Roughness was significantly reduced in the silicone elastomers processed against coated gypsum materials (p < 0.001). The AFM and SEM analysis results showed evident differences in surface smoothness. EDX data further revealed the presence of the desired chemical components on the surface layer of unmodified and modified silicone elastomers.

Conclusions

Silicone elastomers with lower surface roughness of maxillofacial prostheses can be obtained simply by coating a gypsum mold.
Detection of Radiolucencies around Endodontically Treated Teeth on Routine CT Scans
Authors: Goldstein Gary R. , Iyer Shanker , Doan Phuong D. , Scibetta Sandra
Published: September 2014

Purpose

This retrospective study compared computed tomography (CT) imaging to routine dental periapical radiographs in diagnosing radiolucencies around endodontically treated teeth.

Materials and Methods

Of the 244 CT scans evaluated, 104 had no teeth on the scan. On the remaining 140 scans, 353 teeth fell into the following categories: 59 maxillary molars, 30 mandibular molars, 66 maxillary premolars, 56 mandibular premolars, and 141 anterior teeth. Positive and negative predictive values were calculated, as were sensitivity, specificity, and prevalence assuming the CT scan was the test standard.

Results

For the total tooth population periapical radiograph – CT slice sensitivity was 52, specificity was 90, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 97, the negative predictive value (NPV) was 25, and the prevalence 85.

Conclusion

In the population studied, the CT scan had a greater ability to show radiolucencies that were not evident on periapical radiographs.
Identification and Analysis of Powdery Mildew‐Responsive miRNAs in Wheat
Authors: Wu Fangli , Guo Qingli , Zhang Wei , Jin Weibo
Published: September 2014

Wheat powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), is one of the most consistently damaging diseases of common wheat worldwide and greatly affects crop productivity. Recently, several plant microRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported as gene expression regulators related to various adverse environments. However, up to now, less is known on the roles of miRNAs in powdery mildew infection response of wheat. In this study, miRNA expression patterns were investigated for identifying Bgt‐responsive miRNAs in wheat leaves using a plant miRNA microarray platform. A total of 79 miRNAs from 24 families were detected in wheat leaves. Among those, seven miRNAs were further validated to be involved in wheat powdery mildew response and two of them have never been reported. In addition, their target expression profiles showed a negative correlation with that of the seven miRNAs in mock‐ and Bgt‐infected samples furtherly proved, which in turn as the robust evidence, that those seven powdery mildew‐responsive miRNAs are highly reliable. These findings could extend the current view about miRNAs as ubiquitous regulators under stress conditions.
Subjective–objective sleep discrepancy among older adults: associations with insomnia diagnosis and insomnia treatment
Authors: Kay Daniel B. , Buysse Daniel J. , Germain Anne , Hall Martica , Monk Timothy H.
Published: September 2014

Discrepancy between subjective and objective measures of sleep is associated with insomnia and increasing age. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia improves sleep quality and decreases subjective–objective sleep discrepancy. This study describes differences between older adults with insomnia and controls in sleep discrepancy, and tests the hypothesis that reduced sleep discrepancy following cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia correlates with the magnitude of symptom improvement reported by older adults with insomnia. Participants were 63 adults >60 years of age with insomnia, and 51 controls. At baseline, participants completed sleep diaries for 7 days while wearing wrist actigraphs. After receiving cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, insomnia patients repeated this sleep assessment. Sleep discrepancy variables were calculated by subtracting actigraphic sleep onset latency and wake after sleep onset from respective self‐reported estimates, pre‐ and post‐treatment. Mean level and night‐to‐night variability in sleep discrepancy were investigated. Baseline sleep discrepancies were compared between groups. Pre–post‐treatment changes in Insomnia Severity Index score and sleep discrepancy variables were investigated within older adults with insomnia. Sleep discrepancy was significantly greater and more variable across nights in older adults with insomnia than controls, P ≤ 0.001 for all. Treatment with cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia was associated with significant reduction in the Insomnia Severity Index score that correlated with changes in mean level and night‐to‐night variability in wake after sleep onset discrepancy, P < 0.001 for all. Study of sleep discrepancy patterns may guide more targeted treatments for late‐life insomnia.