bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of treatment of duodenal and gastric ulcers‐‐pantoprazole vs. omeprazole.
Authors: Schepp W , Rehner M , Witzel L
Published: September 2013

The efficacy and safety of pantoprazole in the treatment of duodenal and gastric ulcers has been compared with that of the first proton pump inhibitor omeprazole in two (previously reported) clinical studies. Pantoprazole (40 mg/day) administered orally was an effective and well‐ tolerated treatment for both indications. Pantoprazole was as effective as omeprazole (20 mg/day) and had a similar safety profile. For gastric ulcers, the healing rate with pantoprazole was superior to that with omeprazole at 4 weeks.
Radiographic outcome and complications of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy stabilized with an anatomically contoured locking bone plate
Authors: Kowaleski Michael P. , Boudrieau Randy J. , Beale Brian S. , Piras Alessandro , Hulse Donald , Johnson Kenneth A.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To evaluate the short‐term clinical performance of an anatomically pre‐contoured, locking plate in dogs undergoing tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) for cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) disease.

Study Design

Prospective, multi‐center clinical study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 56) undergoing TPLO.

Methods

Signalment and operative data were recorded. Preoperative, postoperative, and follow‐up tibial plateau angle (TPA) were measured from radiographic images. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded; the latter were categorized as minor if additional surgery was not necessary, and major if surgery was needed to resolve the complication. Bone healing was scored and change in tibial plateau angle (TPACH) between postoperative and follow up radiographic images was calculated.

Results

Mean (±SD) preoperative TPA was 28.6 ± 3.8°, and mean postoperative TPA was 4.8 ± 1.9°. Four intraoperative complications (7.1%) including 2 cases of intra‐articular screw placement, 3 minor postoperative complications (5.4%), and no major or catastrophic postoperative complications occurred. Median bone healing grade was 4/4 (excellent union >75% healing). Mean TPACH was 0.15 ± 1.32°.

Conclusions

Use of this anatomically contoured, locking TPLO plate by experienced surgeons is associated with accurate tibial plateau leveling, reliably excellent bone union at follow‐up exam, minimal TPACH, and a lower complication rate than previously reported. Confining contouring to the distal shaft of the plate ensures there is precise apposition to the tibial diaphysis and mitigates the risk of intra‐articular screw placement.
Evaluation of percutaneously adjustable hydraulic urethral sphincters with and without induced mechanical failure
Authors: Tong Kim , Nelson Laura L. , Hauptman Joe , Nelson Nathan C.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To describe (1) the radiographic appearance of intact hydraulic urethral sphincters (HUS) and (2) the success of leak detection using clinically feasible methods.

Study Design

Prospective, blinded in vitro study.

Sample Population

Thirty HUS devices (10 each of 8, 10, and 12 mm diameter sizes).

Materials and Methods

All devices were inflated with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution to complete occlusion, inspected, and weighed over a 24‐hour period for manufacturing defects. HUS phantoms were created to mimic surrounding soft tissues. One randomly selected HUS of each size was evaluated radiographically at different inflation volumes and angles. All HUS systems were then evaluated in random order before and after puncture with volumetry, manometry, radiography, and contrast fluoroscopy. Volumetry was the total volume (mL) retrieved from each HUS system. Manometry was the pressure (cm H2O) within each HUS system. The HUS devices were filled to a known volume before each measurement.

Results

When all HUS sizes were considered, volumetry did not reveal significant differences before and after puncture, but manometry was significantly different (P < .001). Radiography was 63.8% sensitive and 88.3% specific for puncture diagnosis, with inter‐observer agreement of 0.58. Contrast fluoroscopy was 78.4% sensitive and 100% specific, with inter‐observer agreement of 0.97.

Conclusions

Of those methods tested, contrast fluoroscopy was the most sensitive, specific, and consistent method of leak detection. Manometry was also helpful, but may be difficult to use clinically. Volumetry and radiography were relatively poor indicators of leakage in this model.
Are zebrafish Danio rerio males better swimmers than females?
Authors: Leris I. , Sfakianakis D. G. , Kentouri M.
Published: September 2013

Swimming performance of zebrafish Danio rerio males and females initially reared in four different temperatures was assessed by measuring their relative critical swimming speed after acclimation to a common temperature. Males reared at 31° C achieved higher swimming speeds than females reared at the same temperature. Morphometric measurements indicate differences in body shape between sexes that could account for the difference in swimming speed.
Quality Evaluation of Wheat Germ Cake Prepared with Different Emulsifiers
Authors: Levent H. , Bilgiçli N.
Published: September 2013

Wheat germ (coarse and fine) was replaced with wheat flour at levels of 0, 10, 20 and 30% for cake making. Sodium stearoyl‐2 lactylate (SSL) and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono (and di) glyceride (DATEM) were used as emulsifier at 0.5% level. The effects of wheat germ particle size, emulsifier type and wheat germ level on batter and cake quality were investigated. Coarse wheat germ (CWG) usage in cake formulation gave better cake physical properties than fine wheat germ (FWG). SSL provided higher cake volume, texture and pore structure score, and lower hardness to cake samples compared with DATEM. Wheat germ addition (CWG/FWG) increased the ash, protein, fat and mineral contents (Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, P, K and Zn) of the samples. Crust and crumb color of the cake samples were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by wheat germ addition. As a result, CWG can be incorporated into cake formulation up to 20% level with the aid of SSL.

Practical Applications

Wheat germ is rich in ash, protein, fat and mineral contents compared with wheat flour. Because of its rich composition, wheat germ is used for nutritional enrichment of various cereal products. Sodium stearoyl‐2 lactylate (SSL) and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono (and di) glyceride are anionic emulsifiers composed of hydrophilic and hydrophobic fractions. Their usage in bakery products provides some advantages, such as crumb softness and air incorporation. This study aimed to improve the nutritional quality of cakes without compromising the physical and sensory quality. The 20% enrichment level of coarse wheat germ with 0.5% SSL gained reasonable score in sensory analyses. By using wheat germ, it could be possible to produce palatable cake with increased nutritional quality.
Physicochemical Parameters and Antioxidant Compounds in Edible Squash (Cucurbita Pepo) Flower Stored under Controlled Atmospheres
Authors: Aquino‐Bolaños E.N. , Urrutia‐Hernández T.A. , López Del Castillo‐Lozano M. , Chavéz‐Servia J.L. , Verdalet‐Guzmán I.
Published: September 2013

Edible squash (Cucurbita pepo) flower is highly in demand in Mexico and internationally, but its high perishability limits marketing. An evaluation of the effect of storage under controlled atmosphere (CA) on physicochemical parameters and antioxidant compounds contents in squash flower was carried out. Male flowers were stored at 5C under a continuous flow of gas with one of four compositions: 5% O2 + N2 (CA1); 5% O2 + 10% CO2 + N2 (CA2); 10% CO2 + air (CA3); and air as a control. Compared with the control, the CA treatments had greater retention of total sugars, total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity and lower physiological weight loss. At 16 days, CA2 retained the highest amount of ascorbic acid (49.5%), polyphenols (65.2%) and carotenoids (72.8%). Application of CA2 or CA3 could prolong postharvest life in squash flowers up to 16 days.

Practical Applications

Squash plants are monoecious, bearing male and female flowers on the same plant. Female flowers produce the fruit, while male flowers are edible and used widely in a number of dishes, but their short shelf life limits marketability. The results demonstrate that storage of squash flowers in atmospheres with high (10%) CO2 concentration prolongs shelf life up to 16 days.
Rheological Characteristics of Nut Creams Realized with Different Types and Amounts of Fats
Authors: Glicerina Virginia , Balestra Federica , Pinnavaia Gian Gaetano , Dalla Rosa Marco , Romani Santina
Published: September 2013

The effects of different types (fractionated palm oil and hydrogenated fats – HFs) and amounts of fats on the rheological and textural properties of laboratory made nut creams were evaluated. Samples were produced in a roller ball mill pilot plant, and the color, rheological and textural characteristics were evaluated. Experimental creams were compared with two commercial ones. The highest amount of HFs led to an increase of consistency, viscosity and elasticity of creams involving a reduction in colorimetric parameters compared to ones with or without a low level of HFs. Finally, the potential interchangeability between fundamental and empirical measurements was demonstrated.

Practical Applications

Quality and stability of nut creams are affected by a number of factors, such as types and different amounts of fats. The study of the influence of the impact of different types and amounts of fats is important for manufacturing improvements in order to optimize the different nut cream formulations and the final rheological quality of products. This study may provide a useful guide for producers in order to let them to discriminate and choose a right fat composition of nut creams on the basis of their overall rheological characteristics, assessed by empirical and/or fundamental measurements.
Statins and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults with Normal Cognition or Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Steenland Kyle , Zhao Liping , Goldstein Felicia C. , Levey Allan I.
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To determine the effect of statins on cognitive decline in healthy elderly adults.

Design

Longitudinal.

Setting

National Institute of Aging network of Alzheimer's Disease Centers.

Participants

Research volunteers with normal cognition at baseline evaluated an average 4.1 times over 3.4 years (1,244 statin users, 2,363 nonusers) and with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) at baseline evaluated an average 3.9 times over 2.8 years (763 users, 917 nonusers).

Measurements

Cognitive performance was assessed according to 10 neuropsychological indices and the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR‐SOB). Repeated‐measures analyses adjusted for age, sex, education, comorbidities, and family history of dementia were conducted.

Results

Of participants with normal cognition at baseline, statin users performed significantly better across all visits in attention (Trails A) and had significantly slower annual worsening in CDR‐SOB scores (P = .006) and slower worsening in Mini‐Mental State Examination scores than nonusers (which was not significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons, P = .05). For participants with MCI, statin users performed significantly better across all visits on attention measures (Trail‐Making Test Part A), verbal skills (Category Fluency), and executive functioning (Trail‐Making Test Part B, Digit Symbol, and Digits Backward), but there were no differences in cognitive decline between users and nonusers.

Conclusion

Elderly adults with normal cognition at baseline who used statins had a slower rate of annual worsening in CDR‐SOB than nonusers.
The Hispanic Paradox and Predictors of Mortality in an Aging Biethnic Cohort of Mexican Americans and European Americans: The San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Espinoza Sara E. , Jung Inkyung , Hazuda Helen
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To examine predictors of mortality in aging Mexican Americans (MAs) and European Americans (EAs).

Design

Longitudinal, observational cohort study.

Setting

Socioeconomically diverse neighborhoods in San Antonio, Texas.

Participants

Community‐dwelling adults aged 65 and older (394 MA; 355 EA) who completed the baseline examination (1992–96) of the San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging (SALSA) and for whom vital status was ascertained over an average 8.2 years of follow‐up.

Measurements

Ethnic group was classified using a validated algorithm. Hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models with age, sex, ethnic group, education, income, frailty, diabetes mellitus with and without complications, comorbidity, cognition, depressive symptoms, and body mass index included as predictors in sequential models.

Results

At baseline, MAs had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus and frailty and lower socioeconomic status (SES) than EAs. The age‐ and sex‐adjusted ethnic HR (MA vs EA) for mortality was 1.54 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.17–2.03). After adjusting for SES, the ethnic HR was no longer significant (HR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.83–1.61). In the final model, comorbidity, diabetes mellitus with complications, depressive symptoms, and cognitive impairment were significant independent risk factors for mortality.

Conclusion

Contrary to the Hispanic paradox, MAs were at greater risk of mortality than EAs. SES differences largely explained this ethnic disparity. Significant independent predictors of mortality, regardless of ethnic group, were diabetes mellitus with complications, comorbidity, depressive symptoms, and cognitive impairment. Mortality reduction in older MAs requires attention to socioeconomic disparities and disease factors.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of an Automated Exercise Coach for Older Adults
Authors: Bickmore Timothy W. , Silliman Rebecca A. , Nelson Kerrie , Cheng Debbie M. , Winter Michael , Henault Lori , Paasche‐Orlow Michael K.
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To compare the efficacy of a computer‐based physical activity program (Embodied Conversational Agent—ECA) with that of a pedometer control condition in sedentary older adults.

Design

Single‐blind block‐randomized controlled trial stratified according to clinic site and health literacy status.

Setting

Three urban ambulatory care practices at Boston Medical Center between April 2009 and September 2011.

Participants

Older adults (N = 263; mean age 71.3; 61% female; 63% African American; 51% high school diploma or less).

Intervention

ECA participants were provided with portable tablet computers with touch screens to use for 2 months and were directed to connect their pedometers to the computer using a data cable and interact with a computer‐animated virtual exercise coach daily to discuss walking and to set walking goals. Intervention participants were then given the opportunity to interact with the ECA in a kiosk in their clinic waiting room for the following 10 months. Control participants were given a control pedometer intervention that only tracked step counts for an equivalent period of time. Intervention participants were also provided with pedometers.

Measurements

The primary outcome was average daily step count for the 30 days before the 12‐month interview. Secondary outcomes were average daily step count for the 30 days before the 2‐month interview. Outcomes were also stratified according to health literacy level.

Results

ECA participants walked significantly more steps than control participants at 2 months (adjusted mean 4,041 vs 3,499 steps/day, P = .01), but this effect waned by 12 months (3,861 vs 3,383, P = .09). For participants with adequate health literacy, those in the ECA group walked significantly more than controls at both 2 months (P = .03) and 12 months (P = .02), while those with inadequate health literacy failed to show significant differences between treatment groups at either time point. Intervention participants were highly satisfied with the program.

Conclusion

An automated exercise promotion system deployed from outpatient clinics increased walking among older adults over the short‐term. Effective methods for long‐term maintenance of behavior change are needed.
Multitarget Stepping Program in Combination with a Standardized Multicomponent Exercise Program Can Prevent Falls in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Yamada Minoru , Higuchi Takahiro , Nishiguchi Shu , Yoshimura Kazuya , Kajiwara Yuu , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To investigate the effects of a twice‐weekly multitarget stepping (MTS) task combined with a multicomponent exercise program on stepping accuracy, gaze behavior, fall risk factors, and fall rates.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Community‐dwelling adults aged 65 and older in Japan (N = 264) were randomized into an MTS group (n = 132) and a control group (n = 132).

Intervention

Twenty‐four weeks of a twice‐weekly community‐based MTS program in combination with a standardized multicomponent exercise program.

Measurements

Number of falls and fall‐related fractures during a 12‐month follow‐up period after completion of the intervention, stepping accuracy, gaze behavior while performing the MTS test, and results of four clinical tests relevant to assessment of risk of falls (Timed Up and Go (TUG), functional reach (FR), 10‐m walking, and Five Chair Stand (5CS)) were measured.

Results

Thirteen participants (11.6%) in the MTS group and 39 (33.0%) in the control group fell during the 12‐month follow‐up period (incidence rate ratio = 0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.19–0.66). Three participants in the MTS group and 13 in the control group experienced fall‐related fractures during the 12‐month follow‐up period (relative risk = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.06–0.80). After the intervention, a subset of participants in the MTS group had significantly greater improvement in stepping accuracy and gaze behavior during the MTS test, and all participants in the MTS group had significantly greater improvement in performing the TUG and 10‐m walking (P < .001).

Conclusion

Participants who performed MTS tests combined with a multicomponent exercise program showed greater improvements in stepping accuracy, gaze behavior, and physical performance in a virtually complex environment. Considering the less‐frequent fall rate in the follow‐up assessment, these improvements could contribute to preventing falls in community‐dwelling older adults.
Subcellular distribution of melatonin receptors in human parotid glands
Authors: Isola M. , Ekström J. , Diana M. , Solinas P. , Cossu M. , Lilliu M. A. , Loy F. , Isola R.
Published: September 2013

The hormone melatonin influences oral health through a variety of actions, such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, immunomodulatory and antitumour. Many of these melatonin functions are mediated by a family of membrane receptors expressed in the oral epithelium and salivary glands. Using immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry, recent studies have shown that the melatonin membrane receptors, MT1 and MT2, are present in rat and human salivary glands. To date, no investigation has dealt with the ultrastructural distribution of the melatonin receptors. This was the aim of the present study, using the immunogold method applied to the human parotid gland. Reactivity to MT1 and, with less intensity, to MT2 appeared in the secretory granules of acinar cells and in the cytoplasmic vesicles of both acinar and ductal cells. Plasma membranes were also stained, albeit slightly. The peculiar intracytoplasmic distribution of these receptors may indicate that there is an uptake/transport system for melatonin from the circulation into the saliva.
Jugular Valve Incompetence in Transient Global Amnesia. A Problem Revisited
Authors: Lochner Piergiorgio , Nedelmann Max , Kaps Manfred , Stolz Erwin
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Previous studies have suggested that transient global amnesia (TGA) may be provoked by cerebral venous congestion due to a reflux during Valsalva maneuver (VM) caused by internal jugular venous valve incompetence (IJVVI). We investigated the hemodynamic consequences of postural changes on IJVVI and on intracranial veins in patients with TGA and control subjects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

IJVVI was assessed by means of extracranial color‐coded duplex sonography during VM in 28 patients with TGA and 25 controls. The basal vein Rosenthal was examined by transcranial color‐coded sonography registering flow velocities (FV) at rest and during VM. These measurements were performed in the supine and in a sitting position.

RESULTS

IJVVI was identified in supine position in 19/28 (68%) of TGA patients and in 7/25 (28%) of controls (P < .05). Body position had no effect on the detection of IJVVI. Intracranial venous FV at rest and during VM did neither differ between patients and controls, nor between persons with and without IJVVI.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistent with results of other groups, we found a significantly higher rate of IJVVI in TGA patients compared to controls. However, we found no differences of intracranial venous circulation between groups nor an effect of body position. This sheds doubt on the assumption of a causative effect of IJVVI in TGA.
Olive Knot Pathogen with Pronounced Epiphytic Lifestyle is not Present in Association to Leaf Surface of European Olive Across the Himalayas in Nepal
Authors: Lamichhane Jay Ram , Varvaro Leonardo
Published: September 2013

Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi, the causal agent of olive knot disease, often switches from a saprophytic to a parasitic lifestyle only following natural or man‐made activities, that cause lesions on plant tissues. We investigated the possible presence of this pathogen on the phylloplane of 28 Italian olive cultivars, recently introduced to Nepal. Although a consistent number of bacterial species were found in association with leaf, there was no presence of olive knot pathogen across the study area. The results suggest that the introduction of a new plant species in a given area does not necessarily introduce the pathogen when the propagation materials are rigorously supervised for pathogen exclusion.
Rapid Detection and Identification of Six Tomato yellow leaf curl virus Isolates from Different Regions Using Polymerase Chain Reaction and Restriction Enzyme Analysis
Authors: Park Jungan , Kil Eui‐Joon , Kim Jaedeok , Shin Yong‐Gil , Heo Noh‐Youl , Lee Sukchan
Published: September 2013

The combinational analysis of polymerase chain reaction and restriction enzyme analysis (PCR‐RE) to distinguish six Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) isolates from five countries was developed. Tomato yellow leaf curl virus has spread from the Middle East to Western Europe, Central America and Eastern Asia, and occurs on infected crops such as tomatoes, peppers, cucurbits and beans. Tomato yellow leaf curl virus isolates from Jordan (TYLCV‐Mld[Jo:Cuc] and TYLCV‐IL[Jo:Cuc]), Israel (TYLCV‐IL[IL:Reo:86]), Spain (TYLCV‐Mld[ES72/97]), USA (TYLCV‐IL[US:F10:04]) and Korea (TYLCV‐KR) were collected, and the sequences of the six isolates were analysed to distinguish them by PCR‐RE combination analysis. Oligonucleotide primers for the six TYLCV isolates were designed to amplify approximately 740 base pairs including the intergenic region (IR) and parts of V1 and V2 ORF. Unique restriction enzyme sites were analysed to identify isolate‐specific restriction enzyme sites on the PCR products of each isolate. Three enzymes (DdeI, FauI and BssSI) were selected by in silico analysis, and then, the PCR products following the serial digestion of each restriction enzyme were separated by agarose gel electrophoresis to distinguish the TYLCV isolates. Taken together, the PCR‐RE combination analysis by serial digestion with three restriction enzymes could be a useful method for distinguishing the six isolates.
Effect of a prebiotic on performance of partridge
Authors: Khaksar V. , Veldkamp T. , Hashemipour H.
Published: September 2013

An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of a prebiotic on performance of partridge. The experiment was carried out with a total of eighty‐day‐old male Chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar chukar) chicks in a completely randomized design. The dietary treatments consisted of a control and an experimental treatment, and each treatment was replicated four times with 10 chicks per replicate. The experimental period lasted 16 weeks with a starter period (0–8 weeks) and a grower period (9–16 weeks). The control group was fed the basal diet, while the experimental group was fed the basal diet supplemented with 0.18% prebiotic Aspergillus meal in each period. Performance parameters included body weight gain, cumulative feed consumption and cumulative FCR and were recorded at biweekly intervals. Carcass characteristics and blood parameters were measured at the end of the experiment (week 16). Although the results showed that prebiotic had no significant effect on body weight gain and cumulative feed conversion ratio; however, the supplementation of Aspergillus meal significantly (p < 0.05) decreased cumulative feed consumption. Also prebiotic significantly increased percentages of breast and gastrointestinal tract, decreased percentage of back‐neck, decreased blood triglyceride and total cholesterol content and increased blood calcium content. From this study, it was concluded that dietary supplementation of 0.18% Aspergillus meal might offer beneficial effects on partridge feed consumption, carcass quality and blood cholesterol.
Significant early higher ribavirin plasma concentrations in patients receiving a triple therapy with pegylated interferon, ribavirin and telaprevir
Authors: Boglione L. , De Nicolò A. , Cusato J. , Cariti G. , Di Perri G. , D'Avolio A.
Published: September 2013

The new standard of care for treatment for infection with genotype 1a/b of HCV now is the combination of telaprevir (TLV) with ribavirin (RBV) and pegylated interferon (Peg‐IFN). Although this new therapy gives a higher response rate than the Peg‐IFNα plus RBV treatment, a greatly higher rate of anaemia onset has been reported in all clinical trials. Because haemolysis is a typical concentration‐dependent side effect of RBV, modulated by ITPA gene polymorphisms, we aimed to compare the early RBV plasma exposure of nine patients after 2 weeks of treatment with triple therapy with RBV concentrations of 187 patients treated with RBV and Peg‐IFNα over the same time scale; this comparison was performed also stratifying patients according to ITPA polymorphism genotype and anaemia onset after 1 month of treatment. All TLV‐treated patients had unfavourable ITPA genetic profile and developed anaemia. Moreover, both the rate of anaemia onset and the haemoglobin loss at 1 month were significantly higher in patients treated with TLV. This observation has been confirmed also in patients with the same ITPA genetic profile in double therapy. Strikingly, also early RBV plasma concentrations were significantly higher in patients treated with TLV. These unbiased results confirm the observations recently reported and suggest that the high rate of anaemia onset could be mainly due to the increased RBV exposure, probably caused by a ‘boosting effect’ by TLV. These data highlight the great importance of early therapeutic drug monitoring of RBV in the management of anaemia in the triple therapy.
The “Transition to Modernism”: Recent Research on the Victorian/Modern Divide
Authors: Mahoney Kristin
Published: September 2013

This article surveys new scholarship that straddles the Victorian/Modern divide, reading this work within the context of questions about the usefulness of the terms “Victorian” and “modernist.” Recent work that traces lines of continuity between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries reveals the sustained conversations taking place across the century's turn. Consideration of the transnational and global circulation of aesthetic ideals, which broadens the timeline and the definition of aesthetic movements, has contributed to the contestation of conventional categories of periodization. Additionally, as scholars move away from the tendency to equate Victorianism with tradition and conservatism and modernism with radicalism, a newly rich picture of the political complexity of the turn of the century has emerged.
Poe's Sea Tales and Economic Man: Decision Making in “MS Found in a Bottle” and “A Descent into the Maelström”
Authors: Ki Magdalen Wing‐chi
Published: September 2013

This essay highlights the economic, rather than the more traditional analyses of Poe's sea tales. The first section focuses on Poe's interest in sea journeys against the background of maritime exploration in antebellum America. I then discuss Poe's ambivalence toward the “horrid laws of political economy.” Poe's heroes react to the changing sea through the prism of economic benefit. From capital maximization to optimal satisficing, regret aversion, and risk tolerance, Poe goes beyond the nineteenth century notion of economic men and prompts his readers to see that rational agents can often be rational fools.
Erratum: James Kenney's Comedic Genius: Early Nineteenth‐century Character, Commerce, and the Arts in Raising the Wind, The World!, and Debtor and Creditor
Authors: Robinson Terry F.
Published: September 2013

Scholars have long perceived the early nineteenth century as an era of decline in the drama, a time when the literary and dramatic arts severed connections, and playwrighting for the Theatres Royal became subject wholly to popular sway. James Kenney's comedies reveal how such a view is symptomatic, in part, of the early nineteenth‐century clash between advocates for the arts and promoters of commerce. Through an exploration of character and identity formation within commercial society, Kenney interrogates the seeming opposition between the arts and commerce and exposes, instead, their interdependency. By juxtaposing romance narrative convention and the modern marketplace, he shows that the early nineteenth‐century stage was one of dynamism and growth, rather than failure and loss.
The Leishmania major BBSome subunit BBS1 is essential for parasite virulence in the mammalian host
Authors: Price Helen P. , Paape Daniel , Hodgkinson Michael R. , Farrant Katie , Doehl Johannes , Stark Meg , Smith Deborah F.
Published: September 2013

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a human genetic disorder with a spectrum of symptoms caused by primary cilium dysfunction. The disease is caused by mutations in one of at least 17 identified genes, of which seven encode subunits of the BBSome, a protein complex required for specific trafficking events to and from the primary cilium. The molecular mechanisms associated with BBSome function remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we generated null and complemented mutants of the BBSome subunit BBS1 in the protozoan parasite, Leishmania. In the absence of BBS1, extracellular parasites have no apparent defects in growth, flagellum assembly, motility or differentiation in vitro but there is accumulation of vacuole‐like structures close to the flagellar pocket. Infectivity of these parasites for macrophages in vitro is reduced compared with wild‐type controls but the null parasites retain the ability to differentiate to the intracellular amastigote stage. However, infectivity of BBS1 null parasites is severely compromised in a BALB/c mouse footpad model. We hypothesize that the absence of BBS1 in Leishmania leads to defects in specific trafficking events that affect parasite persistence in the host. This is the first report of an association between the BBSome complex and pathogen infectivity.
Molecular characterization of cisgenic lines of apple ‘Gala’ carrying the Rvi6 scab resistance gene
Authors: Vanblaere Thalia , Flachowsky Henryk , Gessler Cesare , Broggini Giovanni A. L.
Published: September 2013

Using resistance genes from a crossable donor to obtain cultivars resistant to diseases and the use of such cultivars in production appears an economically and environmentally advantageous approach. In apple, introgression of resistance genes by classical breeding results in new cultivars, while introducing cisgenes by biotechnological methods maintains the original cultivar characteristics. Recently, plants of the popular apple ‘Gala’ were genetically modified by inserting the apple scab resistance gene Rvi6 (formerly HcrVf2) under control of its own regulatory sequences. This gene is derived from the scab‐resistant apple ‘Florina’ (originally from the wild apple accession Malus floribunda 821). The vector used for genetic modification allowed a postselection marker gene elimination to achieve cisgenesis. In this work, three cisgenic lines were analysed to assess copy number, integration site, expression level and resistance to apple scab. For two of these lines, a single insertion was observed and, despite a very low expression of 0.07‐ and 0.002‐fold compared with the natural expression of ‘Florina’, this was sufficient to induce plant reaction and reduce fungal growth by 80% compared with the scab‐susceptible ‘Gala’. Similar results for resistance and expression analysis were obtained also for the third line, although it was impossible to determine the copy number and TDNA integration site–such molecular characterization is requested by the (EC) Regulation No. 1829/2003, but may become unnecessary if cisgenic crops become exempt from GMO regulation.
A Rural African American Faith Community's Solutions to Depression Disparities
Authors: Bryant Keneshia , Haynes Tiffany , Kim Yeary Karen Hye‐cheon , Greer‐Williams Nancy , Hartwig Mary
Published: September 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore how a rural African American faith community would address depression within their congregations and the community as a whole.

Design and Sample

A qualitative, interpretive descriptive methodology was used. The sample included 24 participants representing pastors, parishioners interested in health, and African American men who had experienced symptoms of depression in a community in the Arkansas Delta.

Measures

The primary data sources for this qualitative research study were focus groups.

Results

Participants identified three key players in the rural African American faith community who can combat depression: the Church, the Pastor/Clergy, and the Layperson. The roles of each were identified and recommendations for each to address depression disparities in rural African Americans.

Conclusions

The recommendations can be used to develop faith‐based interventions for depression targeting the African American faith community.
Immobilized Organic Photosensitizers with Versatile Reactivity for Various Visible‐Light Applications
Authors: Ronzani Filippo , Saint‐Cricq Philippe , Arzoumanian Emmanuel , Pigot Thierry , Blanc Sylvie , Oelgemöller Michael , Oliveros Esther , Richard Claire , Lacombe Sylvie
Published: September 2013

Various photosensitizers were grafted by conventional peptide coupling methods to functionalized silica with several macroscopic shapes (powders, films) or embedded in highly transparent and microporous silica xerogel monoliths. Owing to the transparency and free‐standing shape of the monoliths, the transient species arising from irradiation of the PSs could be analyzed and were not strikingly different from those observed in solutions. The observed reactivity for either liquid–solid (α‐terpinene oxygenation vs dehydrogenation) or gas–solid (dimethylsulfide, DMS, solvent‐free oxidation) reactions was consistent with the properties of the excited states of the PSs under consideration. Immobilized anthraquinone‐derived materials preferentially react in both cases by electron transfer from the substrate to the triplet state of the sensitizer, in spite of an efficient singlet oxygen production. The recently developed 9,14‐dicyanobenzo[b]triphenylene‐3‐carboxylic acid, DBTP‐COOH, efficiently reacts via energy transfer to yield singlet oxygen from its triplet state. It was shown to perform better than 9,10‐dicyanoanthracene and rose bengal for DMS oxidation and α‐terpinene photooxygenation to ascaridole, respectively. Thus, by a proper choice of the organic immobilized photocatalyst, it is possible to develop efficient and reusable materials, activated under visible light, for various applications and to tune the reaction pathway, opening the way to green oxidation processes.
Fluorescence Excitation Spectrum of Bilirubin in Blood: A Model for the Action Spectrum for Phototherapy of Neonatal Jaundice
Authors: Lamola Angelo A. , Russo Marie
Published: September 2013

A recent report (Lamola et al. 2013 Pediatric Research, 74, 54–60) presents a semiempirical model for facile calculation of an action spectrum for bilirubin photochemistry in vivo using the most current knowledge of the optics of neonatal skin. The calculations indicate that competition for phototherapy light by hemoglobin in the skin is the predominant factor that defines the spectrum of light absorbed by bilirubin. If the latter is correct, a valid physical analog of the calculated spectrum is the excitation spectrum of bilirubin in blood. The fluorescence excitation spectrum was recorded and, indeed, found to be very similar to the calculated spectrum. Both spectra exhibit maxima near 476 nm and widths at half height of about 50 nm. This result supports the conclusion that light between 460 and 490 nm is most effective for phototherapy of neonatal jaundice.
Photoreaction of Ketoprofen with Tryptophan and Tyrosine in Phosphate Buffer Solution
Authors: Shinoda Mio , Isozaki Tasuku , Suzuki Tadashi
Published: September 2013

Reaction of excited ketoprofen (KP) with tryptophan (Trp) and tyrosine (Tyr) in a phosphate buffer solution was studied by the transient absorption spectroscopy. Both amino acids, which would interact with KP in bovine serum albumin [Monti, S. [2009] Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 11, 9104–9113], accelerated the proton transfer reaction to yield 3‐ethylbenzophenone ketyl biradical (EBPH) from KP carbanion, which was produced by photoexcitation of KP− through decarboxylation. By means of the actinometry method with benzophenone, the reaction quantum yield was successfully estimated to be fairly large, and Trp, Tyr, DOPA and 4‐methylphenol were found to be a good proton donor for the carbanion. The formation rate constants of EBPH by the amino acids (kr) were also determined to be (2.7 ± 0.1) × 109 M−1s−1 for Trp and (7.8 ± 0.4) × 108 M−1s−1 for Tyr, which were larger than those by basic amino acids and dipeptides reported. The reason for the highly efficient proton transfer reaction with Trp and Tyr would be explained by difference of the activation energy for the reaction. These results suggest that the proton transfer should be a key process for an initial photoreaction of KP with a protein, causing photosensitization in vivo.
Statistical Corrections of Invalid Correlation Matrices
Authors: Løland Anders , Huseby Ragnar Bang , Hjort Nils Lid , Frigessi Arnoldo
Published: September 2013

Suppose estimates are available for correlations between pairs of variables but that the matrix of correlation estimates is not positive definite. In various applications, having a valid correlation matrix is important in connection with follow‐up analyses that might, for example, involve sampling from a valid distribution. We present new methods for adjusting the initial estimates to form a proper, that is, nonnegative definite, correlation matrix. These are based on constructing certain pseudo‐likelihood functions, formed by multiplying together exact or approximate likelihood contributions associated with the individual correlations. Such pseudo‐likelihoods may then be maximized over the range of proper correlation matrices. They may also be utilized to form pseudo‐posterior distributions for the unknown correlation matrix, by factoring in relevant prior information for the separate correlations. We illustrate our methods on two examples from a financial time series and genomic pathway analysis.
Ultraviolet radiation and nanoparticle induced intracellular free radicals generation measured in human keratinocytes by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Rancan F. , Nazemi B. , Rautenberg S. , Ryll M. , Hadam S. , Gao Q. , Hackbarth S. , Haag S. F. , Graf C. , Rühl E. , Blume‐Peytavi U. , Lademann J. , Vogt A. , Meinke M. C.
Published: September 2013

Background

Several nanoparticle‐based formulations used in cosmetics and dermatology are exposed to sunlight once applied to the skin. Therefore, it is important to study possible synergistic effects of nanoparticles and ultraviolet radiation.

Methods

Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) was used to detect intracellular free radicals induced by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation and amorphous silica nanoparticle and to evaluate the influence of nanoparticle surface chemistry on particle cytotoxicity toward HaCaT cells. Uncoated titanium dioxide nanoparticles served as positive control. In addition, particle intracellular uptake, viability, and induction of interleukin‐6 were measured.

Results

We found that photo‐activated titanium dioxide particles induced a significant amount of intracellular free radicals. On the contrary, no intracellular free radicals were generated by the investigated silica nanoparticles in the dark as well as under UVB radiation. However, under UVB exposure, the non‐functionalized silica nanoparticles altered the release of IL‐6. At the same concentrations, the amino‐functionalized silica nanoparticles had no influence on UVB‐induced IL‐6 release.

Conclusion

EPR spectroscopy is a useful technique to measure nanoparticle‐induced intracellular free radicals. Non‐toxic concentrations of silica particles enhanced the toxicity of UVB radiation. This synergistic effect was not mediated by particle‐generated free radicals and correlated with particle surface charge and intracellular distribution.
Ethnic differences in objective and subjective skin irritation response: an international study
Authors: Lee E. , Kim S. , Lee J. , Cho S‐A. , Shin K.
Published: September 2013

Background

Due to global marketing in the cosmetics industry, it is important to assess ethnic population susceptibility when evaluating the safety of cosmetic products or chemicals.

Objectives

To investigate ethnic variations in skin irritation response to positive irritants.

Methods

Clinical testing was performed in four countries on two ethnic groups – Asian and Caucasian. We performed patch tests on the subjects’ back with 0.5% aqueous sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and 0.15% retinol prepared in 1,3‐butylene glycol. Stinging tests were performed using 5% aqueous lactic acid and 0.001% (w/v) capsaicin prepared in 10% ethanol solution separately.

Results

The incidence of self‐perceived skin sensitivity was similar in the two ethnic groups. However, the incidence of adverse skin reaction to cosmetics appeared significantly higher in Asian (33.0%) than in Caucasian subjects (11.3%). For standard positive irritants such as 0.5% aqueous SLS solution, Asian subjects showed significantly higher scores than Caucasian subjects. The incidence of positive reaction to the 0.15% retinol patch test tended to be higher in Asian than in Caucasian subjects. Our data also showed that neurosensitivity to 5% lactic acid and 0.001% capsaicin was higher in Asian than in Caucasian subjects.

Conclusion

Although self‐reported skin sensitivity does not appear to differ according to ethnicity, there are ethnic differences in objective and subjective skin irritation responses to several standard positive materials.
The Twenty‐First Century Gold Rush: The Plunder of Public Assets and a Radically Restructured Teaching Labor Force
Authors: Fabricant Michael
Published: September 2013

Over the past thirty years the commons has experienced dramatic change in both its level of funding and redistribution of functions to the market. These trends have contributed to the restructuring of public higher education's labor force. The shift from a full‐time to part‐time labor force is increasingly being joined to market‐based profit‐making ventures associated with online learning. These recent developments represent a third stage of part‐time faculty development within the academy. The architecture for maximizing online revenue in an era of intensifying austerity is underpinned by “cheap labor.” Importantly it is in the dynamic between cheap labor and online learning that many public university administrators have identified their alternative to a steady regimen of starvation budgets.
Minimal effect of bortezomib in reducing anti‐pig antibodies in human leukocyte antigen‐sensitized patients: a pilot study
Authors: Hara Hidetaka , Bentall Andrew , Long Cassandra , Fang Jason , Andreyev Oleg , Lunz John , Ezzelarab Mohamed , Abu‐Elmagd Kareem M. , Shapiro Ron , Ayares David , Stegall Mark , Cooper David K. C.
Published: September 2013

Background

Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor used to treat multiple myeloma, has been administered (± plasma exchange ± intravenous immunoglobulin [IVIg]) in attempts to reduce antibodies against human leukocyte antigens (HLA) in sensitized patients undergoing organ transplantation. To our knowledge, bortezomib has not been investigated for its effect on natural anti‐pig antibodies. If bortezomib could reduce the production of anti‐pig antibodies, this would likely be beneficial to the outcome of pig organ grafts in primates.

Methods

Nine patients received bortezomib either to reduce anti‐HLA antibody levels before organ allotransplantation or to treat antibody‐mediated rejection. Patients at the Mayo Clinic (Group 1; n = 4) received bortezomib alone, whereas at the UPMC (Group 2; n = 5), this was combined with plasmaphereses ± IVIg in some cases. Anti‐pig IgM and IgG levels against wild‐type (WT) and α1,3‐galactosyltransferase gene knockout (GTKO) pig aortic endothelial cells (flow cytometry—relative mean fluorescence intensity) and anti‐Gal IgM and IgG (ELISA–OD480 nm) were measured pre‐ and post‐bortezomib therapy.

Results

Mean anti‐pig IgM levels were 11.2 (WT) and 1.9 (GTKO) pre‐bortezomib treatment and 9.4 (WT: P = 0.02) and 1.7 (GTKO: P = 0.33) post‐bortezomib treatment, respectively. Mean anti‐pig IgG levels were 4.3 (WT) and 1.5 (GTKO) pre‐bortezomib treatment and 3.6 (WT: P = 0.21) and 1.4 (GTKO: P = 0.20) post‐bortezomib treatment, respectively. Mean anti‐Gal IgM and IgG levels were 0.7 and 1.1, respectively, pre‐treatment, and 0.6 (P = 0.03) and 1.1 (NS), respectively, post‐treatment. When the data were analyzed in Groups 1 and 2 separately, there were no significant differences between the pre‐ and post‐bortezomib levels of anti‐pig, anti‐non‐Gal, or anti‐Gal IgM or IgG.

Conclusions

From this limited study, we conclude that bortezomib might reduce anti‐Gal IgM levels in primates, but, in this respect alone, is unlikely to have any significant effect on the outcome of GTKO pig organ transplantation.