bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating driver risk using alcohol biomarkers, interlock blood alcohol concentration tests and psychometric assessments: initial descriptives
Authors: Marques Paul , Tippetts Scott , Allen John , Javors Martin , Alling Christer , Yegles Michel , Pragst Fritz , Wurst Friedrich
Published: November 2009

Aim  To identify alcohol biomarker and psychometric measures that relate to drivers' blood alcohol concentration (BAC) patterns from ignition interlock devices (IIDs).

Design, setting, participants, measurements  In Alberta, Canada, 534 drivers, convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), installed IIDs and agreed to participate in a research study. IID BAC tests are an established proxy for predicting future DUI convictions. Three risk groups were defined by rates of failed BAC tests. Program entry and follow‐up blood samples (n = 302, 171) were used to measure phosphatidyl ethanol (PETH), carbohydrate deficient transferrin (%CDT), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) and other biomarkers. Program entry urine (n = 130) was analyzed for ethyl glucuronide (ETG) and ethyl sulphate (ETS). Entry hair samples were tested for fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEE) (n = 92) and ETG (n = 146). Psychometric measures included the DSM‐4 Diagnostic Interview Schedule Alcohol Module, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), the time‐line follow‐back (TLFB), the Drinker Inventory of Consequences (DRINC) and the Temptation and Restraint Inventory (TRI).

Findings  Except for FAEE, all alcohol biomarkers were related significantly to the interlock BAC test profiles; higher marker levels predicted higher rates of interlock BAC test failures. PETH, the strongest with an overall analysis of variance F ratio of 35.5, had significant correlations with all nine of the other alcohol biomarkers and with 16 of 19 psychometric variables. Urine ETG and ETS were correlated strongly with the IID BAC tests.

Conclusions  The findings suggest that several alcohol biomarkers and assessments could play an important role in the prediction and control of driver alcohol risk when re‐licensing.
Cognitive test scores in male adolescent cigarette smokers compared to non‐smokers: a population‐based study
Authors: Weiser Mark , Zarka Salman , Werbeloff Nomi , Kravitz Efrat , Lubin Gad
Published: November 2009

Background  Although previous studies indicate that people with lower intelligence quotient (IQ) scores are more likely to become cigarette smokers, IQ scores of siblings discordant for smoking and of adolescents who began smoking between ages 18–21 years have not been studied systematically.

Methods  Each year a random sample of Israeli military recruits complete a smoking questionnaire. Cognitive functioning is assessed by the military using standardized tests equivalent to IQ.

Results  Of 20 221 18‐year‐old males, 28.5% reported smoking at least one cigarette a day (smokers). An unadjusted comparison found that smokers scored 0.41 effect sizes (ES, P < 0.001) lower than non‐smokers; adjusted analyses remained significant (adjusted ES = 0.27, P < 0.001). Adolescents smoking one to five, six to 10, 11–20 and 21+ cigarettes/day had cognitive test scores 0.14, 0.22, 0.33 and 0.5 adjusted ES poorer than those of non‐smokers (P < 0.001). Adolescents who did not smoke by age 18, and then began to smoke between ages 18–21 had lower cognitive test scores compared to never‐smokers (adjusted ES = 0.14, P < 0.001). An analysis of brothers discordant for smoking found that smoking brothers had lower cognitive scores than non‐smoking brothers (adjusted ES = 0.27; P = 0.014).

Conclusion  Controlled analyses from this large population‐based cohort of male adolescents indicate that IQ scores are lower in male adolescents who smoke compared to non‐smokers and in brothers who smoke compared to their non‐smoking brothers. The IQs of adolescents who began smoking between ages 18–21 are lower than those of non‐smokers. Adolescents with poorer IQ scores might be targeted for programmes designed to prevent smoking.
Prevention programs in the 21st century: what we do not discuss in public
Authors: Holder Harold
Published: November 2009

Prevention research concerning alcohol, tobacco and other drugs faces a number of challenges as the scientific foundation is strengthened for the future. Seven issues which the prevention research field should address are discussed: lack of transparency in analyses of prevention program outcomes, lack of disclosure of copyright and potential for profit/income during publication,post‐hocoutcome variable selection and reporting only outcomes which show positive and statistical significance at any follow‐up point, tendency to evaluate statistical significance only rather than practical significance as well, problem of selection bias in terms of selecting subjects and limited generalizability, the need for confirmation of outcomes in which only self‐report data are used and selection of appropriate statistical distributions in conducting significance testing. In order to establish a solid scientific base for alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention, this paper calls for discussions, disclosures and debates about the above issues (and others) as essential. In summary, the best approach is always transparency.
Myeloma cell‐induced disruption of bone remodelling compartments leads to osteolytic lesions and generation of osteoclast‐myeloma hybrid cells
Authors: Andersen Thomas L. , Søe Kent , Sondergaard Teis E. , Plesner Torben , Delaisse Jean‐Marie
Published: November 2009

Osteolytic lesions are a hallmark of multiple myeloma. They are due to the hyperactivity of bone resorbing osteoclasts and hypoactivity of bone forming osteoblasts, in response to neighbouring myeloma cells. This study identified a structure that deeply affects this response, because of its impact on the physical organisation of the myeloma cell microenvironment. The proximity between myeloma cells and osteoclasts or osteoblasts was shown to be conditioned by the recently discovered layer of flat cells that separates the osteoclasts and osteoblasts from the bone marrow, by forming a canopy over bone remodelling compartment (BRC). These canopies are frequently disrupted in myeloma, and this disruption correlates with increased proximity and density of myeloma cells. In vitro evidence indicates that this disruption may be due to direct contact between myeloma and BRC canopy cells. Importantly, this disruption and increased proximity and density of myeloma cells coincides with key myeloma‐induced bone events, such as osteolytic lesions, impaired bone formation despite increased bone resorption, and fusion of myeloma cells with osteoclasts thereby forming myeloma‐osteoclast hybrid cells. These findings strongly support a critical role of BRC canopies in myeloma‐induced bone disease. BRC canopies could therefore be considered as a new therapeutic target.
Successful treatment of autoimmune and lymphoproliferative complications of patients with intrinsic B‐cell immunodeficiencies with Rituximab
Authors: Hennig Christian , Baumann Ulrich , Ilginus Claudia , Horneff Gerd , Foell Juergen , Hansen Gesine
Published: November 2009

The heterogeneous group of primary immunodeficiencies requires personalized diagnosis and therapy to acheive an optimal outcome for each patient. This was exemplified by two patients with intrinsic B‐cell class‐switch defects (subclass of Hyper‐IgM syndromes), where lymphoproliferation and autoimmunity determined the clinical course for many years due to lack of exact diagnosis. Based on genetics or a novel functional diagnostic approach, a definite individual diagnosis was established for each patient and they started Rituximab therapy. Autoimmune phenomena and generalized lymphadenopathy disappeared and remained well controlled during the observation period (3–4 years) without adverse effects. Quality of life increased remarkably in both patients.
Roles of mammalian sterile 20‐like kinase 2‐dependent phosphorylations of Mps one binder 1B in the activation of nuclear Dbf2‐related kinases
Authors: Bao Yijun , Sumita Kazutaka , Kudo Takumi , Withanage Kanchanamala , Nakagawa Kentaro , Ikeda Mitsunobu , Ohno Kikuo , Wang Yunjie , Hata Yutaka
Published: November 2009

Mammalian nuclear Dbf2‐related (NDR) kinases (LATS1, LATS2, NDR1 and NDR2) play a role in cell proliferation, apoptosis and morphological changes. Mammalian sterile 20‐like (MST) kinases and Mps one binder (MOB) proteins are important in the activation of NDR kinases. MOB1 is phosphorylated by MST1 and MST2 and this phosphorylation enhances the ability of MOB1 to activate NDR kinases. The phosphorylated MOB1 can be more effective as a scaffold protein to facilitate the MST‐dependent phosphorylation of NDR kinases and/or as a direct activator of NDR kinases. We previously reported that Thr74 of MOB1B is phosphorylated by MST2. Thr12 and Thr35 have also been identified as phosphorylation sites. In this study, we quantified the phosphorylation of Thr74 using the phosphorylated Thr74‐specific antibody. Thr74 is indeed phosphorylated by MST2, but the efficiency is low, suggesting that MOB1B can activate NDR kinases without the phosphorylation of Thr74. We also showed that the phosphorylated MOB1B activates NDR1 T444D and LATS2 T1041D, in which threonine residues phosphorylated by MST kinases are replaced with phosphorylation‐mimicking aspartic acid, more efficiently than the unphosphorylated MOB1B does. This finding supports that the phosphorylation of MOB1B enhances its ability as a direct activator of NDR kinases.
Chromogenic in situ hybridization for Her‐2/neu‐oncogene in breast cancer: comparison of a new dual‐colour chromogenic in situ hybridization with immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Mayr Doris , Heim Sibylle , Weyrauch Kerstin , Zeindl‐Eberhart Evelyn , Kunz Anne , Engel Jutta , Kirchner Thomas
Published: November 2009

Aims:  Her‐2/neu testing is used as a marker for Herceptin® therapy. The aim was to investigate new dual‐colour chromogenic in situ hybridization (CISH), in a large number of breast carcinomas (n = 205) with DNA‐specific dual‐colour probes (ZytoVision, Bremerhaven, Germany) and to compare the results with immunohistochemistry (n = 205) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) (n = 129).

Methods and results:  Paraffin‐embedded tissue of 205 patients was used. After immunohistochemistry with a focus on immunohistochemically uncertain cases, Her‐2/neu amplification using dual‐colour CISH (ZytoVision®) was analysed. Validation by FISH was performed. The results were: immunohistochemistry, 27.8% with strong expression, 53.7% with uncertain overexpression and 18.5% with no expression; FISH, 25.6% amplified and 74.4% negative; CISH, 35.6% amplified, 62.9% negative and 1.5% not evaluable. Comparison of immunohistochemistry with CISH: CISH negative in 100% with immunohistochemistry 0/1+, amplified in 82.5% with immunohistochemistry 3+; 5.9% contradictory results: 4.4% immunohistochemistry 3+ and negative by CISH, 1.5% negative in immunohistochemistry but amplified by CISH; FISH (129 cases), 8.5% contradictory results to immunohistochemistry, 6.2% immunohistochemistry 3+ and negative by FISH, 2.3% negative by immunohistochemistry and amplified by FISH; comparison of CISH and FISH, 94.6% same results, 3.9% different ones, 1.6% CISH not analysable.

Conclusions:  CISH, using dual‐colour probes (ZytoVision®) is as good as FISH for Her‐2/neu analysis. The few discrepant results are likely to be caused by polysomy or tumour heterogeneity.
Plasticity of T‐cell phenotype and function: the T helper type 17 example
Authors: Peck Ariana , Mellins Elizabeth D.
Published: November 2009

Mature T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th2 cells antagonize the development of the opposing subset to sustain lineage‐specific responses. However, the recent identification of a third distinct subset of helper T cells – the Th17 lineage – collapses the established Th1/Th2 dichotomy and raises intriguing questions about T‐cell fate. In this review, we discuss the Th17 subset in the context of the effector and regulatory T‐cell lineages. Initial studies suggested reciprocal developmental pathways between Th17/Th1 subsets and between Th17/regulatory T‐cell subsets, and identified multiple mechanisms by which Th1 and Th2 cells antagonize the generation of Th17 cells. However, recent observations reveal the susceptibility of differentiated Th17 cells to Th1 polarization and the enhancement of Th17 memory cells by the Th1 factors interferon‐γ and T‐bet. In addition, new data indicate late‐stage plasticity of a subpopulation of regulatory T cells, which can be selectively induced to adopt a Th17 phenotype. Elucidating the mechanisms that undermine cross‐lineage suppression and facilitate these phenotype shifts will not only clarify the flexibility of T‐cell differentiation, but may also shed insight into the pathogenesis of autoimmunity and cancer. Furthermore, understanding these phenomena will be critical for the design of immunotherapy that seeks to disrupt lineage‐specific T‐cell responses and may suggest ways to manipulate the balance between pathogenic and regulatory lymphocytes for the restoration of homeostasis.
Characterization of an human leucocyte antigen A2‐restricted Epstein–Barr virus nuclear antigen‐1‐derived cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte epitope
Authors: Marescotti Diego , Destro Federica , Baldisserotto Anna , Marastoni Mauro , Coppotelli Giuseppe , Masucci Maria , Gavioli Riccardo
Published: November 2009

The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1) is regularly expressed in all proliferating virus‐infected cells and is therefore an interesting target for immunotherapy. Alleles of the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) ‐A2 family are dominantly expressed in Caucasians so we sought to identify EBNA1‐specific cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte (CTL) responses restricted through this allele. We report on the characterization of the LQTHIFAEV (LQT) epitope. LQT‐specific memory CTL responses were reactivated in three of 14 healthy EBV seropositive donors (21%) whereas responses to HLA‐A2‐restricted epitopes, two derived from LMP2 and one from EBNA3A, were detected in 93%, 71% and 42% of the donors, respectively. The LQT‐specific CTL clones did not lyse EBV‐carrying lymphoblastoid cell lines and Burkitt’s lymphoma cell lines nor EBNA1‐transfected Burkitt’s lymphoma cells but specifically released interferon‐γ upon stimulation with HLA‐matched EBNA1‐expressing cells and this response was enhanced by deletion of the Gly‐Ala repeat domain that inhibits proteasomal degradation. The poor presentation of the endogenously expressed LQT epitope was not affected by inhibition of peptidases that trim antigenic peptides in the cytosol but full presentation was achieved in cells expressing a trojan antigen construct that releases the epitope directly into the endoplasmic reticulum. Hence, inefficient proteasomal processing appears to be mainly responsible for the poor presentation of this epitope.
Gibbs free energy of adhesion of Bacillus cereus isolated from dairy plants on different food processing surfaces evaluated by the hydrophobicity
Authors: Araújo Emiliane A. , Bernardes Patrícia C. , Andrade Nélio J. , Fernandes Patrícia E. , Sá João Paulo N.
Published: November 2009

Adhesion of Bacillus cereus A6 and L1, isolated from dairy plants, to stainless steel, granite, and glass surfaces was evaluated. Adhesion of B. cereus to all surfaces was affected by hydrophobicity. Adhesion to the hydrophobic surfaces (ΔGswsTOT < 0) of granite and stainless steel was greater than adhesion to glass, which was classified as a hydrophilic surface (ΔGswsTOT > 0). Bacillus cereus A6 adhered in higher numbers to all three surfaces evaluated and was less hydrophilic (ΔGbwbTOT = 19.83) than B. cereus L1 (ΔGbwbTOT = 23.50). For instance, in stainless steel the number of adhered cells of B.cereus A6 was 2.42 log CFU cm−2 while to B. cereus L1 was 1.96 log CFU cm−2. The adhesion of B. cereus was thermodynamically favourable in granite and stainless steel surface (ΔGadhesion < 0). Therefore, the adherence process was affected by the strain of B. cereus and by the hydrophobicity of stainless steel, granite, glass and microorganisms surfaces.
Evaluation of the influence of inert atmosphere packaging on the quality of salt‐fermented Indian shad
Authors: Majumdar Ranendra Kumar , Basu Subrata
Published: November 2009

Lona‐ilish, is a traditional salt‐fermented fish product, made exclusively from Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha). The product is very susceptible to autoxidation of lipids leading to fast deterioration of its quality. The storage‐study of the product was done in nitrogen pack in two types of packs (one opaque and other transparent). Except moisture, no remarkable changes were observed in case of non‐protein nitrogen, free alpha‐amino nitrogen and total volatile basic nitrogen after 6 months of study period in case of both the packs. During the study period the initial peroxide value (PV; meq O2/kg fat) of 23.68 decreased to 10.86 in case of opaque pack, whereas, it showed a steady increase in case of transparent packs and PV reached to 68.57 after 6 months. The sensory evaluation revealed that lona‐ilish stored in opaque pouch remained acceptable up to 180 days. Whereas, in transparent pouch, the product reached to the stage of rejection on the 60th day.
Differential scanning calorimetry as a tool to detect antibiotic residues in ultra high temperature whole milk
Authors: Yildiz Özge , Unluturk Sevcan
Published: November 2009

Detection of penicillin G, ampicillin and tetracycline in ultra high temperature whole milk was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Thermal parameters including the heat of fusion, the evaporation temperature, the heat of evaporation and the melting temperature obtained from DSC analysis were used to characterise thermal behaviour of antibiotic free milk samples and milk samples fortified with Penicillin G, Ampicillin and Tetracycline. DSC curves of these antibiotics at selected concentrations (0, 2, 4, 8 ppb for Penicillin G and Ampicillin; 0, 100, 250, 500 ppb for Tetracycline) show big endothermic peaks in the temperature range of −30 °C and 200 °C. It was concluded that the antibiotic concentration had a significant effect on the thermal parameters at a 95% confidence level. The differences between the melting temperatures and the peak areas in heat flow curves provided a basis for detection of antibiotic residues in UHT whole milk.
Characterisation and modelling of time‐independent and time‐dependent flow behaviour of sodium alginate dispersions
Authors: Roopa Bommanahalli Shivegowda , Bhattacharya Suvendu
Published: November 2009

The time‐independent and time‐dependent rheological behaviour of sodium alginate dispersions were determined. The concentration of sodium alginate in the dispersions and temperature of measurement were between 1% and 3%, and 25 and 55 °C, respectively. Shear‐thinning behaviour was observed for these alginate dispersions when subjected to progressively increasing shear stresses. The Cross power indices (m) were between 0.57 and 0.82. The time‐dependent studies were conducted by loop experiments at constant shear rates of 25, 125 and 625 s−1. The thixotropic loop and the different time‐dependent parameters were sensitive to the concentration of alginate and temperature of measurement. The models of Weltman, Mangelsdorf and the three‐parameter non‐linear model were suitable to predict the shear stresses at constant shear rates, as judged by root mean square error values. The coefficient of thixotropic breakdown with shearing (M) could be obtained from forward curve while it gave an indication of structural build‐up when shear rate was progressively decreased.
Impact of soaking and phytase treatments on phytic acid, calcium, iron and zinc in faba bean fractions
Authors: Luo Yuwei , Xie Weihua , Xie Chunyan , Li Yan , Gu Zhenxin
Published: November 2009

With the aim to maximise phytic acid removal and minimise losses of dry matter and minerals (Ca, Fe, Zn) in faba bean, fractions of faba beans (whole faba beans, dehulled faba beans, hulls) and flours, were soaked in demineralised water at 10 °C (SDW), NaAc buffer of pH 3.5 at 10 °C (SAB), and 500 U L−1 phytase of pH 5.5 at 50 °C (SPS). In whole seeds and flour, SAB removed 20–51% phytic acid from seeds, and SPS 100% from flour depending upon different preheating treatments; dry matter, Ca, Fe, and Zn losses were 1.8–18%, 20–61%, 33–61% and 8–51%. In dehulled seeds flour, phytic acid could be removed 100% by SPS treatments. In dehulled seeds and flour, losses of dry matter, Ca, Fe were 2.4–18.6%, 12–63%, 11–43%, and Zn apparent gain was 12–73% respectively. In hulls flour, SPS removed 80–82% phytic acid, and SAB 48–50% depending upon different preheating treatments; dry matter, Ca, Zn losses were 6.4–28.7%, 16–46%, 60–72%, and Fe apparent gain was 2–73%, respectively. Phytase application is an effective method to rapidly remove phytic acid while preserving relatively more dry matter and minerals than other soaking approaches in faba bean fractions.
Effect of enriched oxygen atmosphere storage on the quality of live clams (Ruditapes decussatus)
Authors: Gonçalves Amparo , Pedro Sónia , Duarte Aida , Nunes Maria Leonor
Published: November 2009

The purpose of the present work was to study the effect of storage in enriched oxygen atmosphere on the quality of live clams. Purified live clams were packed in 70% O2/30% N2. A control batch was prepared in which live clams were wrapped in mesh bags (stored in air). Both batches were stored at 6.1 ± 0.7 °C during 6 days. Sampling and analysis were carried out on days 0 (initial), 3 and 6 of storage. The physiological condition and quality of live clams were evaluated by corporal indices, physical/chemical indicators (pH value, glycogen levels, malondialdehyde), sensory assessment and microbial analysis. Similar physiological conditions of live clams were reported in both storage conditions. The storage under high O2 atmosphere did not promote the microbial growth. A beneficial effect of high O2 MAP storage was observed in the preservation of live clam’s quality. In particular, a significant positive effect on the typical sweet taste was observed.
Industrial processing effects on chestnut fruits (Castanea sativa Mill.). 1. Starch, fat, energy and fibre
Authors: Barbosa Mendes de Vasconcelos Maria do Carmo , Bennett Richard N. , Rosa Eduardo A. S. , Ferreira‐Cardoso Jorge V.
Published: November 2009

This is the first two year study with the major aim of evaluating the effects at the four sequential major stages of industrial processing (A‐fresh, B‐after storage during 3 months at ±0 °C and RH = 90%, C‐after industrial peeling by flame or fire at 800–1000 °C, D‐after freezing in a tunnel with a CO2 flow at –65 °C) on the contents of important nutrients in the fruits of four Portuguese (Judia, Longal, Martaínha and Lada) and two European (‘Spanish’–Puga do Bolo, and ‘Italian’– Viterbes) cultivars of Castanea sativa Mill. Fruits were found to contain significant contents of crude energy but low fat. In both harvest years, the interaction cultivar × processing step had the greatest influence on the starch contents while the cultivar factor had a much greater influence on the dry matter content. The fibre contents were more influenced by the processing stage for both harvests years.
A novel steamed bread making process using salt‐stressed baker’s yeast
Authors: Te Yeh Lien , Wu Mei‐Li , Charles Albert Linton , Huang Tzou‐Chi
Published: November 2009

The process of applying salt‐stressed baker’s yeast during southern style Chinese steamed bread dough preparation was examined. Baker’s yeast was stressed in 7% salt solution then mixed into dough, which was then evaluated for dough fermentation producing gas, dough expansion, texture profile analysis (TPA), colour, specific volume, spread ratio and sensory analysis. The results of this study pointed out salt‐stressed baker’s yeast produced significant amount of gas and dough expansion, particularly after 40 min of salt stressing. The texture of steamed bread was softer (463.08 g) than control (541.35 g) (P < 0.05), greater in specific volume (3.15 cm3 g−1) than control (2.89 cm3 g−1) (P < 0.05), had a lower spread ratio (1.45) than control (1.74) (P < 0.05) and a significantly improved sensory properties for taste (90.6) than control (81.6) (P < 0.05) were obtained.
Evaluation of the extraction efficiency for polyphenol extracts from by‐products of green kiwifruit juicing
Authors: Sun‐Waterhouse Dongxiao , Wen Ivy , Wibisono Reginald , Melton Laurence D. , Wadhwa Sandhya
Published: November 2009

The health benefits of fruits are attributable in part to their bioactive components such as phenolics and pectic polysaccharides. By‐products derived from kiwifruit processing can be a good source of such bioactive compounds. Extracts were produced using different concentrations of ethanol in water (0%, 30%, 50%, 74% and 96% v/v) from by‐products (skin, residue and pulp) of the green‐fleshed kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa‘Hayward’) juicing process. The amounts of phenolic compounds and uronic acid (UA) as well as the phenolic composition in each extract were determined. Results show that different by‐products contained different concentrations of phenolics and pectic polysaccharides. Based on total phenolic contents, 96% v/v ethanol appeared to be the best extraction medium. The 30% or 74% ethanolic dilution was the second best medium for phenolic extraction from skin and pulp/residue, respectively. Water was a good medium for extracting satisfactory quantities of phenolics as well as the highest concentration of pectic polysaccharides. Phenolic profiling by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to detect individual phenolic compounds in an extract. Results using HPLC showed that alkali pre‐treatment has improved the extraction efficiency of phenolics as a function of alkali concentration, fruit tissue type, extraction media, by‐product preparation method, and class of polyphenols. As a result more efficient methods for both extraction and characterisation of polyphenols could be evaluated.
Thermal inactivation of polyphenoloxidase and peroxidase in green coconut (Cocos nucifera) water
Authors: Murasaki‐Aliberti Nathalia da C. , Da Silva Rodrigo M. S. , Gut Jorge A. W. , Tadini Carmen C.
Published: November 2009

Coconut water is an isotonic beverage naturally obtained from the green coconut. After extracted and exposed to air, it is rapidly degraded by enzymes peroxidase (POD) and polyphenoloxidase (PPO). To study the effect of thermal processing on coconut water enzymatic activity, batch process was conducted at three different temperatures, and at eight holding times. The residual activity values suggest the presence of two isoenzymes with different thermal resistances, at least, and a two‐component first‐order model was considered to model the enzymatic inactivation parameters. The decimal reduction time at 86.9 °C (D86.9 °C) determined were 6.0 s and 11.3 min for PPO heat labile and heat resistant fractions, respectively, with average z‐value = 5.6 °C (temperature difference required for tenfold change in D). For POD, D86.9 °C = 8.6 s (z = 3.4 °C) for the heat labile fraction was obtained and D86.9 °C = 26.3 min (z = 6.7 °C) for the heat resistant one.
Job strain predicts recurrent events after a first acute myocardial infarction: the Stockholm Heart Epidemiology Program
Authors: László K. D. , Ahnve S. , Hallqvist J. , Ahlbom A. , Janszky I.
Published: November 2009

Abstract.  László KD, Ahnve S, Hallqvist J, Ahlbom A, Janszky I. (Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden). Job strain predicts recurrent events after a first acute myocardial infarction: the Stockholm Heart Epidemiology Program. J Intern Med 2010; 267:599–611.

Objectives.  Studies investigating the prognostic role of job stress in coronary heart disease are sparse and have inconclusive findings. We aimed (i) to investigate whether job strain predicts recurrent events after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and if so (ii) to determine behavioural and biological factors that contribute to the explanation of this association.

Design.  Prospective study.

Setting.  Ten emergency hospitals in the larger Stockholm area, Sweden.

Subjects.  Non‐fatal AMI cases from the Stockholm Heart Epidemiology Program case–control study who were employed and younger than 65 years at the time of their hospitalization (n = 676).

Results.  During the 8.5 year follow‐up, 155 patients experienced cardiac death or non‐fatal AMI; totally 96 patients died, 52 of cardiac causes. After adjustment for potential confounders, patients with high job strain had an increased risk for the combination of cardiac death and non‐fatal AMI relative to those with low job strain, the hazard ratio (HR) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) being 1.73 (1.06–2.83). Results were similar for cardiac [HR (95% CI): 2.81 (1.16–6.82)] and total mortality [HR (95% CI): 1.65 (0.91–2.98)]. We found no evidence for mediation from lifestyle, sleep, lipids, glucose, inflammatory and coagulation markers on the association between job strain and the combination of cardiac death and non‐fatal AMI.

Conclusions.  Job strain was associated with poor long‐term prognosis after a first myocardial infarction. Interventions focusing on reducing stressors at the workplace or on improving coping with work stress in cardiac patients might improve their survival post‐AMI.
Endemic and introduced haplotypes of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in Japanese amphibians: sink or source?
Authors: FISHER MATTHEW C.
Published: November 2009

The global emergence of the amphibian chytrid pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is one of the most compelling, and troubling, examples of a panzootic. Only discovered in 1998, Bd is now recognized as a proximate driver of global declines in amphibian diversity and is now widely acknowledged as a key threatening process for this ancient class of vertebrates. Moreover, Bd has become a member of a small group of highly virulent multihost pathogens that are known to have had effects on entire vertebrate communities and the ecosystem‐level effects of Bd‐driven amphibian declines are starting to emerge as a consequence of regional decreases in amphibian diversity. Despite the speed at which this species of aquatic chytrid has become a focus of research efforts, major questions still exist about where Bd originated, how it spreads, where it occurs and what are Bd’s effects on populations and species inhabiting different regions and biomes. In this issue, Goka et al. (2009) make an important contribution by publishing the first nationwide surveillance for Bd in Asia. Although previous data had suggested that amphibians in Asia are largely uninfected by Bd, these surveys were limited in their extent and few firm conclusions could be drawn about the true extent of infection. Goka et al. herein describe a systematic surveillance of Japan for both native and exotic species in the wild, as well as amphibians housed in captivity, using a Bd‐specific nested PCR reaction on a sample of over 2600 amphibians. Their results show that Bd is widely prevalent in native species across Japan in at least three of the islands that make up the archipelago, proving for the first time that Asia harbours Bd.
The colicin Ia receptor, Cir, is also the translocator for colicin Ia
Authors: Jakes Karen S. , Finkelstein Alan
Published: November 2009

Colicin Ia, a channel‐forming bactericidal protein, uses the outer membrane protein, Cir, as its primary receptor. To kill Escherichia coli, it must cross this membrane. The crystal structure of Ia receptor‐binding domain bound to Cir, a 22‐stranded plugged β‐barrel protein, suggests that the plug does not move. Therefore, another pathway is needed for the colicin to cross the outer membrane, but no ‘second receptor’ has ever been identified for TonB‐dependent colicins, such as Ia. We show that if the receptor‐binding domain of colicin Ia is replaced by that of colicin E3, this chimera effectively kills cells, provided they have the E3 receptor (BtuB), Cir, and TonB. This is consistent with wild‐type Ia using one Cir as its primary receptor (BtuB in the chimera) and a second Cir as the translocation pathway for its N‐terminal translocation (T) domain and its channel‐forming C‐terminal domain. Deletion of colicin Ia's receptor‐binding domain results in a protein that kills E. coli, albeit less effectively, provided they have Cir and TonB. We show that purified T domain competes with Ia and protects E. coli from being killed by it. Thus, in addition to binding to colicin Ia's receptor‐binding domain, Cir also binds weakly to its translocation domain.
C‐ring requirement in flagellar type III secretion is bypassed by FlhDC upregulation
Authors: Erhardt Marc , Hughes Kelly T.
Published: November 2009

The cytoplasmic C‐ring of the flagellum consists of FliG, FliM and FliN and acts as an affinity cup to localize secretion substrates for protein translocation via the flagellar‐specific type III secretion system. Random T‐POP transposon mutagenesis was employed to screen for insertion mutants that allowed flagellar type III secretion in the absence of the C‐ring using the flagellar type III secretion system‐specific hook–β‐lactamase reporter (Lee and Hughes, 2006). Any condition resulting in at least a twofold increase in flhDC expression was sufficient to overcome the requirement for the C‐ring and the ATPase complex FliHIJ in flagellar type III secretion. Insertions in known and unknown flagellar regulatory loci were isolated as well as chromosomal duplications of the flhDC region. The twofold increased flhDC mRNA level coincided in a twofold increase in the number of hook‐basal bodies per cell as analysed by fluorescent microscopy. These results indicate that the C‐ring functions as a nonessential affinity cup‐like structure during flagellar type III secretion to enhance the specificity and efficiency of the secretion process.
Ichthyosis hystrix Curth–Macklin type in an African girl
Authors: Yusuf S. M. , Mijinyawa M. S. , Maiyaki M. B. , Mohammed A. Z.
Published: November 2009

Ichthyosis hystrix Curth–Macklin type is a rare autosomal dominant skin disorder characterized by extensive hyperkeratosis and palmo‐plantar keratoderma. It results from heterozygous frameshift mutation in keratin 1 gene (KRT1). Histological features, showing perinuclear vacuolization and binucleated cells, are similar to those of epidermolytic hyperkeratosis except for the absence of epidermolysis. The present report describes the condition in a 16‐year‐old African girl where available treatment was disappointing.
Impact of a sun protection campaign in Medellín (Colombia)
Authors: Sanclemente Gloria , Díaz Abel
Published: November 2009

Objective  To evaluate the impact of an educational massive sun protection campaign.

Methods  Two telephone surveys were performed to 707 participants, on knowledge about the hours of greater solar intensity, UV protection devices, the ultraviolet index, and the history of skin cancer. Between the first and the second survey, a massive sun protection campaign was carried out. A sun protection brochure was also sent to each participant.

Results  In the first survey (S1) a total of 707 individuals were interviewed, while in the second one (S2), the effectiveness of the calls decreased to 374 people. Nevertheless, we found significant differences between the first and the second survey (χ2 = 12.3, P = 0.006). Overall, a significant increment in sun protection knowledge was acquired, but the use of sun‐block remained stable. The knowledge about what the UVI means was increased significantly from S1 to S2. The best communication means to increase the overall knowledge about the sun and its effects were the brochure and TV.

Discussion and conclusions  We should encourage massive sun protection. The role of women in the transmission of these messages to their children or family nucleus is essential. Also, we should encourage the elaboration of brochures and an appropriate television use for health messages. Dermatologists must have a role in controlling skin topics presented on television to avoid erroneous messages or inadequate attitudes.
Toward a better understanding of “psychocutaneous disorders”
Authors: Elpern David J.
Published: November 2009

There is a group of cutaneous disorders for which we have an inadequate understanding of their etiology and which frustrates us as therapists. This includes conditions such as the dynias, neurotic excoriations, postherpetic neuralgia, prurigo nodularis, and others. Herein, we review a recent article in the New Yorker magazine which postulates a new way to look at these puzzling entities.
Long‐term efalizumab therapy for patients with moderate‐to‐severe, chronic plaque psoriasis: results from an Australian expanded access program
Authors: Foley Peter , Freeman Michael , Gebauer Kurt , Murrell Dedee , Shumack Stephen , Tyson Christopher , Varigos George
Published: November 2009

Background  Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that can impact heavily on a patient’s well‐being. Efalizumab, a unique, targeted, biological therapy, has demonstrated efficacy in treating moderate‐to‐severe, chronic plaque psoriasis with ≤36 months of continuous therapy. The objective of this Extended Access Program (EAP) was to evaluate further the benefit of efalizumab as long‐term therapy in a real‐world clinical setting.

Methods  After an initial conditioning dose of efalizumab (0.7 mg/kg subcutaneously), a weekly dose of efalizumab (1.0 mg/kg) was administered for ≤21 months. Patients with reduced Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores (≥50%, or a score ≤8) at month 3 entered the long‐term maintenance treatment period.

Results  In total, 101 patients (>18 years) with severe plaque psoriasis enrolled on the EAP, of these 93 (92.1%) met all the inclusion criteria. After 3 months of treatment, 84/101 (83.2%) patients had evaluable data and entered the maintenance period. After 3 months, 57/84 (67.9%) patients had achieved PASI‐50. Using an intent‐to‐treat analysis, after 21 months of treatment, PASI‐75 and PASI‐50 were achieved by 43/101 (42.6%) and 69/101 (68.3%) of patients, respectively. Efalizumab was generally well tolerated during the 21 months of continuous therapy.

Conclusion  Efalizumab, 1.0 mg/kg/week, is effective and well tolerated in a ‘real world’ clinical setting, providing enduring reduction of psoriasis symptoms for up to 21 months.
Children with frequent infections: A proposal for a stepwise assessment and investigation of the immune system
Authors: Cassimos Dimitrios C. , Liatsis Manolis , Stogiannidou Anastasia , Kanariou Maria G.
Published: November 2009

Cassimos DC, Liatsis M, Stogiannidou A, Kanariou MG. Children with frequent infections: A proposal for a stepwise assessment and investigation of the immune system. ‘The immune defense to foreign invaders’ Symphony. Which instrument is out of tune? Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: 463–473. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Although many children develop frequent infections, only a few have an underlying immune disorder. Children with dysfunction of the immune system develop frequent infections and/or recurrent, persistent, severe, and rare infections. The aim of this review is to provide to the clinician a valuable tool for recognizing any ‘discords’ of the ‘immune‐system symphonic orchestra’. By following a reverse route, it will be possible to brighten up the dark and winding road of immunodeficiencies and identify the exact point of immune dysfunction. This is fundamental and crucial to perceive etiologic management and subsequently achieve the best for these young patients and their families.
Leaf domatia and protection of a predatory mite Typhlodromus doreenae Schicha (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from drying humidity
Authors: Rowles Alexei D , O'Dowd Dennis J
Published: November 2009

When plant characteristics influence interactions between herbivores and their natural enemies, mutualism can result between plants and the third trophic level. Leaf domatia, small hair tufts, pockets, or pits in the leaf surface, frequently shelter predaceous and fungivorous mites that may decrease the impact of plant herbivores and fungal pathogens. Benefits that accrue to sheltered mites are unclear. One hypothesis is that domatia protect mites from drying humidity they would otherwise experience on the leaf surface. This hypothesis was tested using laboratory microcosms with leaves of two plant species, Viburnum tinus (Caprifoliaceae) and Coprosma repens (Rubiaceae), and a native Australian phytoseiid mite, Typhlodromus doreenae. Domatia were either removed or retained on leaves and the distribution and performance of T. doreenae provided with pollen as a food source was assessed at four levels of relative humidity (30%, 50%, 70% and 98% RH). When domatia were available, most adults and offspring of T. doreenae were found there, irrespective of RH level or plant species. The presence of domatia increased retention of adult mites on leaves of C. repens but not V. tinus. Domatia of both plant species increased mite reproduction but only at RH >70% on C. repens and at 98% on V. tinus. These results indicate that T. doreenae benefits from domatia, but these benefits are not strongly related to drying humidity. Other hypotheses, including escape from predators, may better explain association of mites with leaf domatia. Irrespective of RH, this predatory mite did benefit from use of domatia for shelter and reproduction, supporting a key requirement for plant–mite mutualism.
Temperature and developmental interactions in a multitrophic parasitoid guild
Authors: Rice Anthony D , Allen Geoff R
Published: November 2009

The lower developmental thresholds and thermal constants (day‐degree requirements) for three larval parasitoids and one hyperparasitoid were estimated and compared with those of their host, the eucalypt defoliating leaf beetle, Paropsisterna (=Chrysophtharta) agricola Chapuis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Paropsini). The lower developmental thresholds and thermal constants for the primary parasitoids Eadya paropsidis Huddleston and Short (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Euphorinae), Paropsivora australis Macquart and Balde striatum Rice (Diptera: Tachinidae: Blondeliini) were estimated at 5.9°C, 294 DD (egg to pupa), 6.2°C, 385 DD (egg to adult), and 6.3°C, 345 DD (larva to adult) respectively. Developmental thresholds of all three parasitoids were lower than their host, and all three required fewer day‐degrees for generational development than their host. The developmental threshold for Mesochorus sp. (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Mesochorinae), a hyperparasitoid of the tachinid fly, B. striatum, was 9.7°C which is higher than B. striatum, the primary host and P. agricola, the secondary host. The thermal constant of 333 DD for Mesochorus sp. is also lower than its primary and secondary host.
Reliability of volumetric and gravimetric methods for estimating the number of Carpophilus spp. (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) in traps
Authors: Hossain Mofakhar S , Hossain Mamun A B M , Chandra Subhash , Williams David G
Published: November 2009

Reliable estimation of insect population size is a pre‐requisite to understand population dynamics and to develop management strategies for pest infestations. We report the results of three sampling studies to identify reliable methods of estimating the number of carpophilus beetles in traps. Study 1 compared reliability of volumetric and gravimetric methods. Fresh beetles and beetles dried for 24, 48 and 72 h were used. The reliability in terms of consistency and precision was quantified. A reliable method must first be consistent, quantified by a linear trend of zero slope. Volumetric methods using fresh and 24 h dried beetles were consistent and had good precision. Study 2 investigated the influence of sample size on reliability of volumetric estimation of number of fresh beetles using a 5 mL cylinder. Study 3 examined the influence of cylinder size on reliable volumetric estimation of 1000 fresh beetles. All three sample and cylinder sizes investigated were consistent and had good precision. These results suggest that volumetric methods are generally consistent and possess good precision, a 5 mL cylinder may be used for reliable volumetric estimation of up to 500 beetles, and a 50 mL cylinder may be used for reliable volumetric estimation of larger numbers of beetles. A model is developed to predict the number of fresh beetles from their measured volume. Advantages of volumetric methods compared with gravimetric methods are discussed.
Unusual case of neotrichy in a new species of oribatid mite (Acari, Oribatida, Steganacaridae)
Authors: Niedbała Wojciech
Published: November 2009

A new species of ptyctimous mites, Austrophthiracarus nimius sp. nov., shows pletrotrichy of notogastral and ano‐adanal plates and especially pletrotrichy of prodorsum. The latter is a unique feature for the first time reported for a species of ptyctimous mites. The majority of the species of Austrophthiracarus Balogh & Mahunka from Australian Region are characterised by neotrichy of notogastral and adanal setae; however, the new species has the highest reported number of notogastral setae (40–45 pairs).
Biochemical mechanisms of insecticide resistance in the diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidopterata: Yponomeutidae), in the Sydney region, Australia
Authors: Eziah Vincent Y , Rose Harley A , Wilkes Meredith , Clift Alan D
Published: November 2009

Following the detection of resistant diamondback moth (DBM) populations to synthetic pyrethroid, organophosphorus and indoxacarb insecticides in the Sydney Basin, a study of the major biochemical mechanisms was conducted to determine the type of resistance in these populations. The activity of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases increased two‐ to sixfold when compared with the susceptible strain. Up to a 1.9‐fold increase in esterase activity in resistant strains compared with the susceptible strain was observed. In vitro inhibition studies showed that profenofos, methamidophos and chlorpyrifos strongly inhibited the esterases while permethrin and esfenvalerate resulted in less than 30% inhibition. Qualitative analysis of the esterases using native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed four bands in both the susceptible and resistant individuals with more intense staining in the resistant individuals. The development of these bands was inhibited by methamidophos and chlorpyrifos pretreatment of the protein extract while permethrin and esfenvalerate did not exhibit this effect. Glutathione S‐transferase (GST) activity was significantly higher in two field populations compared with the remaining populations. Overall, the study showed that the mechanisms of insecticide resistance in the DBM populations in the area studied were due to cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, esterase and GSTs, and possibly other non‐metabolic mechanisms that were not investigated in the present study.