bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Axonal transport of BDNF precursor in primary sensory neurons
Authors: Wang Hui , Wu Linda Lin‐yan , Song Xing‐Yun , Luo Xue‐Gang , Zhong Jin‐Hua , Rush Robert A. , Zhou Xin‐Fu
Published: November 2006

Recent studies have shown that the precursor of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (pro‐BDNF) activates p75NTR with high affinity to induce apoptosis. Here we show that pro‐BDNF is transported anterogradely and retrogradely in sensory neurons of adult rats. After a crush injury of sciatic nerves, dorsal roots or dorsal column in adult Sprague–Dawley rats, the immunoreactivity for pro‐BDNF accumulated at both the proximal and distal segments. The accumulation reached a maximum at 24 h after injury. Western blot analysis also revealed pro‐BDNF in sciatic nerve segments proximal and distal to the ligature and in the spinal cord. Biotinylated or Alexa‐488‐labelled pro‐BDNF injected into sciatic nerve was internalized and transported both retrogradely and anterogradely within sensory neurons. These results demonstrate that pro‐BDNF is anterogradely and retrogradely transported in sensory neurons, suggesting that endogenous pro‐BDNF may be released and play important functions.
Developmental expression of Na+ currents in mouse Purkinje neurons
Authors: Fry Mark
Published: November 2006

As Purkinje neurons mature during postnatal development, they change from electrically quiescent to active and exhibit high frequency spontaneous action potentials. This change in electrical activity is determined by both alteration in ion channel expression and the acquisition of synaptic input. To gain a better understanding of the development the intrinsic electrical properties of these neurons, acutely isolated Purkinje neurons from mice aged postnatal day 4 (P4) to P18 were examined. This included recording action potential frequency, threshold, height and slope, and input resistance and capacitance. Changes in a number of these properties were observed, suggesting significant changes in voltage‐gated Na+ currents. Because voltage‐gated Na+ currents, including the transient, resurgent and persistent currents, are known to play important roles in generating spontaneous action potentials, the developmental changes in these currents were examined. A large increase in the density of transient current, resurgent current and persistent current was observed at times corresponding with changes in action potential properties. Interestingly, the developmental up‐regulation of the persistent current and resurgent current occurred at rate which was faster than the up‐regulation of the transient current. Moreover, the relative amplitudes of the persistent and resurgent currents increased in parallel, suggesting that they share a common basis. The data indicate that developmental up‐regulation of Na+ currents plays a key role in the acquisition of Purkinje neuron excitability.
CaMK‐II modulation of GABAAreceptors expressed in HEK293, NG108‐15 and rat cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Houston C. M. , Smart T. G.
Published: November 2006

The γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptor is a pentameric ligand‐gated ion channel responsible for fast synaptic inhibition in the brain. Phosphorylation of the GABAAreceptor by serine/threonine protein kinases, at residues located in the intracellular loop between the third and fourth transmembrane domains of each subunit, can dynamically modulate receptor trafficking and function. In this study, we have assessed the effect that Ca2+‐calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase‐II (CaMK‐II) has on GABAAreceptors. The intracellular application of preactivated CaMK‐II failed to modulate the function of αβ and αβγ subunit GABAAreceptors heterologously expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK)293 cells. However, application of similarly preactivated α‐CaMK‐II significantly potentiated the amplitudes of whole‐cell GABA currents recorded from rat cultured cerebellar granule neurons and from recombinant GABAAreceptors expressed in neuroblastoma, NG108‐15, cells. The modulation by α‐CaMK‐II of current amplitude depended upon the subunit composition of GABAAreceptors. α‐CaMK‐II potentiated GABA currents recorded from α1β3 and α1β3γ2 GABAAreceptors, but was unable to functionally modulate β2 subunit‐containing receptors. Similar results were obtained from β2 –/– mouse cerebellar granule cell cultures and from rat granule cell cultures overexpressing recombinant α1β2 or α1β3 GABAAreceptors. α‐CaMK‐II had a greater effect on the modulation of GABA responses mediated by α1β3γ2 compared with α1β3 receptors, indicating a possible role for the γ2 subunit in CaMK‐II‐mediated phosphorylation. In conclusion, CaMK‐II can upregulate the function of GABAAreceptors expressed in neurons or a neuronal cell line that is dependent on the β subunit co‐assembled into the receptor complex.
Sacral nerve stimulation induces pan‐colonic propagating pressure waves and increases defecation frequency in patients with slow‐transit constipation
Authors: Dinning P. G. , Fuentealba S. E. , Kennedy M. L. , Lubowski D. Z. , Cook I. J.
Published: November 2006

Objective  Colonic propagating sequences are important for normal colonic transit and defecation. The frequency of these motor patterns is reduced in slow‐transit constipation. Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a useful treatment for faedcal and urinary incontinence. A high proportion of these patients have also reported altered bowel function. The effects of SNS on colonic propagating sequences in constipation are unknown. Our aims were to evaluate the effect of SNS on colonic pressure patterns and evaluate its therapeutic potential in severe constipation.

Method  In eight patients with scintigraphically confirmed slow‐transit constipation, a manometry catheter (16 recording sites at 7.5 cm intervals) was positioned colonoscopically and the tip fixed in the caecum. Temporary electrodes (Medtronic) were implanted in the S2 and S3 sacral nerve foramina under general anaesthesia. In the fasted state, 14 Hz stimulation was administered and four sets of parameters (pulse width 300 or 400 μs; S2 and S3) were tested in four 2‐h epochs, in random order, over 2 days. Patients were then discharged home with the sacral wires in situ and a 3‐week trial stimulation commenced during which patients completed a daily stool diary.

Results  When compared with basal activity, electrical stimulation to S3 significantly increased pan‐colonic antegrade propagating sequence (PS) frequency (5.4 ± 4.2 vs 11.3 ± 6.6 PS/h; P = 0.01). Stimulation at S2 significantly increased retrograde PSs (basal 2.6 ± 1.8 vs SNS 5.6 ± 4.8 PS/h; P = 0.03). During the subsequent three‐week trial (continuous stimulation), six of eight reported increased bowel frequency with a reduction in laxative usage.

Conclusion  These data demonstrate that SNS induces pan‐colonic propagating pressure waves and therefore shows promise as a potential therapy for severe refractory constipation.
Endoscopic trans‐anal resection of rectal tumours: critical appraisal of an interdisciplinary approach
Authors: Shaikh S. , Nabi G. , O'Kelly T. , Swami S. K.
Published: November 2006

Objective  Endoscopic trans‐anal resection (ETAR) is an accepted technique for treating benign rectal adenomas that relies on technical expertise with the urological resectoscope. We present our experience with ETAR in an interdisciplinary setting combining the decision‐making of the colorectal surgeon with the technical skill of the urologist.

Method  Assessment of all patients with adenomas and their subsequent care was organized by the colorectal team. Those with carpet‐like rectal adenomas were referred to the urologist for ETAR performed using a Storz‐Olympus 27/28Ch resectoscope, with roller‐ball for haemostasis and glycine for irrigation.

Results  Twenty‐four patients (43–93 years, median 71 years; 14 men and 10 women) underwent 51 ETAR procedures from 1999 to 2005, with a median of two (range 1–6) procedures per patient. Complete clearance was achieved on 25 occasions. Two intra‐operative extra‐peritoneal perforations occurred which were managed conservatively. There were four cases of postoperative haemorrhage, two of which required a repeat procedure to secure haemostasis. Four patients had postoperative pyrexia that settled with oral antibiotics.

Mean tumour distance from the anal verge was 7 cm (range 2–12 cm); the mean tumour area was 8 cm2 (range 3–20 cm2); the mean operating time was 34 min (range 15–60 min) and the mean hospital stay was 32 h (range 24–120 h).

Conclusion  An interdisciplinary approach to ETAR uses available clinical resources efficiently as the colorectal surgeon does need to acquire the technical skills of endoscopic resection. Our results compare favourably with other published series and this approach can be adopted by any centre where colorectal and urological surgeons work together.
Endoscopically placed caecostomy buttons: a trial ACE procedure
Authors: Biyani D. , Barrow E. , Hodson P. , Watson A. J. M. , Maclennan I.
Published: November 2006

The use of the antegrade continence enema (ACE) is becoming more widespread. Preliminary studies have been promising, but the procedure is not universally successful. A colonoscopic insertion of a caecostomy button is a relatively minor procedure. This allows the ACE to be used for a trial period to assess whether a permanent procedure would be beneficial. If successful, enemas can be continued by the caecostomy, or a formal ACE can be performed. We report a series of five patients who underwent staged endoscopic insertion of a MIC‐KEY caecostomy button, and we discuss the technical aspects of the procedure.
Normalization of metabolic syndrome using fenofibrate, metformin or their combination
Authors: Nieuwdorp M. , Stroes E. S. G. , Kastelein J. J. P. ,   Fenofibrate/Metformin study group
Published: November 2006

Aim:  The aim of this study was to evaluate whether and to what extent fenofibrate (F), metformin (M) or a combination of these drugs improve characteristics of the metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods:  MetS was defined as the presence of ≥3 National Cholesterol Education Programme criteria, including ≥2 biochemical abnormalities. Patients with MetS were randomized to receive one of seven treatments twice daily for three months: F 80 mg + M 850 mg, F 80 mg + M 500 mg, F 40 mg + M 850 mg, F 40 mg + M 500 mg, F 80 mg + placebo, M 850 mg + placebo or placebo. ‘Normalized’ was defined as not having MetS biochemical abnormalities at the 3‐month treatment period. A total of 681 patients were analysed (mean age 56 years, 59% men, mean body mass index 31.6 and 33.3 in male and female patients respectively).

Results:  High dose combination therapy led to normalization of biochemical parameters in 17.4% of patients, whereas only 5.8% of patients during F (p = 0.009) and 5.0% during M monotherapy (p = 0.005) exhibited normal biochemical values. Accordingly, F 80 mg + M 850 mg twice daily was most effective for normalizing triglycerides (55.0%), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (35.0%) and fasting glucose (39.4%). All the treatments were well tolerated, with comparable adverse‐event rates between groups.

Conclusions:  Treatment with fenofibrate and metformin in combination led to normalization of biochemical abnormalities associated with the MetS more effectively compared with either therapy alone, without additional adverse effects. These data imply that high‐dose combination therapy may offer additional therapeutic benefit particularly in patients with MetS.
PUBLIC DEBT AS PRIVATE WEALTH: SOME EQUILIBRIUM CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: Schlicht Ekkehart
Published: November 2006

Government bonds are interest‐bearing assets. Increasing public debt increases wealth, income and consumption demand. The smaller government expenditure is, the larger consumption demand must be in equilibrium, and the larger must be public debt. Conversely, lower public debt implies higher government spending and taxation. Public debt plays, thus, an important role in establishing equilibrium. It distributes output between consumers and government. In case of insufficient demand, a larger public debt entails higher private consumption and less public spending. If upper bounds on public debt are introduced (as in the Maastricht treaty), such constraints place lower bounds on taxation and public spending and may rule out macroeconomic equilibrium. As an aside, a minor flaw in Domar's (American Economic Review, 34 (4), pp. 798–827) classical analysis is corrected.
Lipid abnormalities in HIV/hepatitis C virus‐coinfected patients
Authors: Bedimo R , Ghurani R , Nsuami M , Turner D , Kvanli M‐B , Brown G , Margolis D
Published: November 2006

Background

Among HIV‐infected patients, hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection is associated with increased rates of lipodystrophy and insulin resistance. Its impact on HIV‐associated dyslipidaemia is less clear.

Methods

The lipid profiles of all HIV‐infected patients and a subset of HCV‐infected patients seen at the VA Medical Center in Dallas from January 2003 to March 2004 were analysed. Demographic data, HCV serostatus, and HIV treatment history were recorded. Lipid profiles of HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients were compared with those of HIV‐monoinfected and HCV‐monoinfected patients.

Results

A total of 359 HIV‐infected patients, 91 (25.3%) of whom were HCV coinfected, and 112 HCV‐infected patients were included in the analysis. Among the HIV‐infected patients, HCV coinfection was associated with a reduced risk of hypercholesterolaemia [9.9% vs 24.8%; relative risk (RR)=0.333; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.158–0.699; P<0.001] and hypertriglyceridaemia (48.4% vs 60.3%; RR=0.616; 95% CI=0.382–0.994; P=0.031). After controlling for duration of protease inhibitor (PI) therapy, race, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) concentration and platelet count, HCV remained an independent predictor of hypercholesterolaemia (RR=0.369; P=0.01) and any dyslipidaemia (RR=0.531; P=0.019). In addition, the rate of dyslipidaemias was lower among HCV‐monoinfected than HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients (29.5% vs 50.5; P=0.002). White race was also an independent predictor of dyslipidaemia (73.8% vs 50.7%; RR=2.32; 95% CI=1.44–3.76; P=0.001).

Conclusions

HCV coinfection independently predicted lower rates of dyslipidaemia among HIV‐infected patients. An analysis of lipid kinetics among mono‐ and coinfected patients may elucidate the mechanisms of the apparent protective effect of HCV infection.
Evaluation of nevirapine‐switch strategies for HIV treatment
Authors: Cooper CL
Published: November 2006

Despite the benefits of protease inhibitor (PI)‐based HIV treatment, issues of tolerability, dosing frequency, pill count and long‐term metabolic complications necessitate evaluation of alternate treatment strategies. The weight of evidence demonstrates that a switch from a PI‐based regimen to one containing nevirapine can be accomplished safely while maintaining virological suppression. There is no immunological cost. There is probably an overall benefit in terms of the metabolic milieu.
Overactive bladder in Parkinson's disease: alteration of brainstem raphe detected by transcranial sonography
Authors: Walter U. , Dressler D. , Wolters A. , Wittstock M. , Benecke R.
Published: November 2006

Urinary dysfunction is very common in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) and manifests primarily with symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). Affection of central serotonergic systems has been suggested to play a role in OAB. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether in PD patients with OAB symptoms a specific alteration of the brainstem raphe (BR), which contains serotonergic neurons, can be detected with transcranial sonography (TCS). Of 116 PD patients enrolled, 19 had PD‐related OAB symptoms (OAB+) unlike remaining 97 patients (OAB−). Patients were examined by a sonographer blinded to the clinical data. Reduced echogenicity of BR was found in 12 (63%) OAB+ patients but only in 18 (19%) of 93 assessable OAB− patients (Mann–Whitney U‐test, P < 0.001). In OAB+ patients, lower raphe echogenicity score was associated with longer duration of OAB symptoms (anova, P = 0.033). Other TCS findings such as echogenicity of substantia nigra, thalami, lenticular and caudate nuclei, and widths of third and lateral ventricles did not differ between OAB+ and OAB− patients. TCS findings suggest a pathogenetic role of BR in OAB related to PD. Alterations may reflect disturbance of its central serotonergic system.
Abnormal musical pacemaker in a patient with musical hallucinations
Authors: Biran I. , Steiner I.
Published: November 2006

Music creation requires a highly orchestrated temporal pattern. The study of a patient with repetitive musical hallucinations enabled us to examine temporal pacemakers in music production. Here, we show that the pattern of faster silent production of a chosen tune compared with its production aloud was reversed when the patient produced the hallucinatory tune. This observation might suggest the utilization of a pacemaker(s), which functions differentially during the disease.
Clinical features of childhood onset essential tremor
Authors: Tan E. K. , Lum S. Y. , Prakash K. M.
Published: November 2006

Childhood onset essential tremor (ET) is uncommon. It is not clear as to whether ethnicity‐specific differences may influence the phenotypic features. To determine the frequency and clinical characteristics of childhood ET in a tertiary referral center. In a prospective evaluation of 120 consecutive ET patients in a movement disorders clinic, we found a 15.5% (19) frequency of childhood onset ET patients. The mean age of onset and mean age was 10.8 ± 4.1 (6–16) years and 25.7 ± 15.0 (16–73) years consisting of 73.6% (14/19) men and 26.4% (5/19) women. A positive family history of ET was present in 11 of 19 (52.6%). Presence of a head tremor was observed in 2/19 (10.5%). We highlighted a relatively high frequency (15,5%) of childhood ET in our Asian cohort. In addition, we drew attention to the male preponderance and the low frequency of head tremor in childhood ET corroborating study findings in white ET patients. These observations appear to transcend ethnic and cultural differences and lend further support that gender difference may play a role in the pathogenesis and expression of ET.
LRRK2 mutations in a clinic‐based cohort of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Scholz S. , Mandel R. J. , Fernandez H. H. , Foote K. D. , Rodriguez R. L. , Barton E. , Munson S. , Singleton A. , Okun M. S.
Published: November 2006

In the last decade, major breakthroughs in the understanding of genetic contributions to Parkinson's disease (PD) have been achieved. Recently, mutations in LRRK2, encoding dardarin, have been found to be responsible for an autosomal dominant parkinsonism (OMIM 607060). We screened 311 subjects (cases: n = 202, controls: n = 109) for the three previously reported LRRK2 mutations. Our investigation revealed a sporadic case of PD with a heterozygous mutation G2019S (c.6055G>A). Here, we present the clinical phenotype of this patient and discuss the implications of genetic testing for the G2019S mutation in patients with sporadic PD.
Comparison of the growth hormone, IGF‐1 and insulin in cerebrospinal fluid and serum between patients with motor neuron disease and healthy controls
Authors: Bilic E. , Bilic E. , Rudan I. , Kusec V. , Zurak N. , Delimar D. , Zagar M.
Published: November 2006

Neurotrophic effects of the growth hormone (GH), insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and insulin on the central nervous system have become more apparent in the past decade. In this study, we measured serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of GH, IGF‐1 and insulin in 35 patients with motor neuron disease (MND) [24 patients with definite amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and 11 patients with progressive bulbar palsy] and in 40 healthy controls. Levels of serum concentrations of GH and IGF‐1 did not significantly differ between the MND patient group and the healthy controls, while the level of insulin was significantly decreased (P = 0.0033) in the MND patient group. However, levels of all three examined parameters in CSF were significantly lower in the MND group than in the healthy controls with the statistical significance for IGF‐1 and insulin of P < 0.001. This finding has not been reported previously, and further investigations into its association with ALS should establish whether it can be used as an early marker of the disease, or whether it merely represents a consequence of ALS development.
Increased urinary excretion of nitric oxide metabolites in longitudinally monitored migraine patients
Authors: Rejdak K. , Empl M. , Giffin N. J. , Afridi S. K. , Petzold A. , Stelmasiak Z. , Thompson E. J. , Goadsby P. J. , Kaube H. , Giovannoni G.
Published: November 2006

This study evaluated a relationship between nitric oxide (NO) and migraine attacks in order to gain insight into migraine pathomechanism. The study groups consisted of 12 migraineurs and eight controls. All subjects collected morning urine samples for 40 consecutive days. Urinary NO metabolites, nitrite/nitrate (NOx) levels were measured with the vanadium‐based assay, whilst creatinine (Cr) and neopterin were determined with high‐performance liquid chromatography. The mean urinary NOx/Cr ratio and number of NOx peaks was significantly greater in the migraine group compared with controls (P = 0.01 and P = 0.007, respectively). In the second approach, high NOx values were re‐assessed in relation to raised neopterin, a marker of systemic infection or inflammation, and were excluded. The excretion of NOx persisted being pulsatile, and migraineurs had more peaks compared with controls (P = 0.01). In seven patients, NOx peaks coincided with headache days. This was more frequent than expected by random association in four patients (Monte‐Carlo simulation; odds ratios: 2.16–7.77; no overlap of 95% CI). In four patients, NOx peaks preceded or followed headache days. Although there is a difference in the pattern of urinary NOx excretion between control and migraine populations, the variable temporal association of NOx peaks and headaches suggests a complex role of NO in this condition.
The structure and mode of action of different botulinum toxins
Authors: Dolly J. O. , Aoki K. R.
Published: November 2006

The seven serotypes (A–G) of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) are proteins produced by Clostridium botulinum and have multifunctional abilities: (i) they target cholinergic nerve endings via binding to ecto‐acceptors (ii) they undergo endocytosis/translocation and (iii) their light chains act intraneuronally to block acetylcholine release. The fundamental process of quantal transmitter release occurs by Ca2+‐regulated exocytosis involving sensitive factor attachment protein‐25 (SNAP‐25), syntaxin and synaptobrevin. Proteolytic cleavage by BoNT‐A of nine amino acids from the C‐terminal of SNAP‐25 disables its function, causing prolonged muscle weakness. This unique combination of activities underlies the effectiveness of BoNT‐A haemagglutinin complex in treating human conditions resulting from hyperactivity at peripheral cholinergic nerve endings. In vivo imaging and immunomicroscopy of murine muscles injected with type A toxin revealed that the extended duration of action results from the longevity of its protease, persistence of the cleaved SNAP‐25 and a protracted time course for the remodelling of treated nerve–muscle synapses. In addition, an application in pain management has been indicated by the ability of BoNT to inhibit neuropeptide release from nociceptors, thereby blocking central and peripheral pain sensitization processes. The widespread cellular distribution of SNAP‐25 and the diversity of the toxin's neuronal acceptors are being exploited for other therapeutic applications.
Using translational medicine to understand clinical differences between botulinum toxin formulations
Authors: Aoki K. R. , Ranoux D. , Wissel J.
Published: November 2006

When using botulinum toxin‐based products, the physician must decide the optimal location and dose required to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. To deliver effective treatment, the physician needs to understand the importance of accurate target muscle selection and localization and the implications of each product's migration properties when diluted in different volumes. Pre‐clinical mouse models of efficacy and safety have been utilized to compare local and distal muscle relaxation effects following defined intramuscular administration. Data from the model allow the products to be ranked based on their propensity for local efficacy versus their distal migration properties. Using standardized dilutions, the non‐parallel dose–response curves for the various formulations demonstrate that they have different efficacy profiles. Distal effects were also noted at different treatment doses, which are reflected in the different safety and/or therapeutic margins. Based on these pre‐clinical data, the safety and therapeutic margin rankings are ordered, largest to smallest, as BOTOX®, Dysport® and Myobloc®. The results of subsequent clinical trials are variable and dose comparisons are inconclusive, thus supporting the regulatory position that the dose units of the individual preparations are unique and cannot be simply converted between products.
Clinical value of botulinum toxin in neurological indications
Authors: Ward A. B. , Molenaers G. , Colosimo C. , Berardelli A.
Published: November 2006

Botulinum toxin type‐A (BoNT‐A) prevents the release of acetylcholine at cholinergic junctions, thereby causing temporary muscle weakness lasting 3–4 months. It is now widely used to treat a broad range of clinical disorders characterized by muscle hyperactivity. BoNT‐A has proved effective in the management of several neurological conditions and, in particular, in the management of movement disorders (e.g. blepharospasm, cervical dystonia, laryngeal dystonia, limb dystonia, hemifacial spasm, focal tics, tremor and other hyperkinetic disorders). As a treatment of spasticity, BoNT‐A can improve mobility and dexterity as well as preventing the development of distressing and costly secondary complications. In cerebral palsy, BoNT‐A is of value, being able to delay or even avoid surgery until motion patterns have become established.
Improvements in healthcare and cost benefits associated with botulinum toxin treatment of spasticity and muscle overactivity
Authors: Esquenazi A.
Published: November 2006

Spasticity is a widespread, disabling form of muscle overactivity affecting patients with central nervous system damage resulting in upper motor neurone syndrome. There is a range of effective therapies for the treatment of spasticity (e.g. physical, anaesthetic, chemodenervation and neurolytic injections, systemic medication and surgery), but all therapies must be based on an individualized, multidisciplinary programme targeted to achieve patient goals. Appropriate therapy should be based on the extent and severity of spasticity, but spasticity and its consequences, regardless of presentation or cause, are commonly treated with systemic agents. This may be ill‐advised as systemic treatment is associated with many undesirable effects. In particular, elderly patients with post‐stroke spasticity are at risk from the central adverse effects of systemic medication (e.g. sedation and gait disturbance), which make them more susceptible to falling, with an associated increased risk of fracture. The rising costs of fracture care and its sequelae are fast becoming an international problem contributing to high healthcare expenditure. Botulinum toxin type‐A (BoNT‐A) treatment is highly effective for some of the more common forms of spasticity and muscle overactivity, and has a favourable profile when compared with systemic agents and other focal treatments. Therefore, the clinical benefits of BoNT‐A treatment outweigh the apparent high costs of this intervention, showing it to be a cost‐effective treatment.
Safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin type A following long‐term use
Authors: Naumann M. , Albanese A. , Heinen F. , Molenaers G. , Relja M.
Published: November 2006

Botulinum toxin serotype A (BoNT‐A) has long heritage of use leading to confidence in its safety and efficacy. The application of BoNT‐A does not lead to persistent histological changes in the nerve terminal or the target muscle. Clinical trials defined the safety and tolerability profile of BoNT‐A across common therapeutic indications and showed an incidence of adverse events of approximately 25% in the BoNT‐A‐treated group compared with 15% in the control group. Focal weakness was the only adverse event to occur more often following BoNT‐A treatment. Long‐term BoNT‐A administration has been assessed in various treatment settings, with the level and duration of BoNT‐A efficacy response being maintained over repeated rounds of injection with no major safety concerns. The treatment of children with cerebral palsy often require long‐term, repeated, multimuscle BoNT‐A injections that lead to the administration of comparably higher toxin doses. Despite the high total body doses used, their distribution over multiple muscles and injection sites means that systemic side effects are rare. Recent formulation changes have reduced the incidence of antibody development following treatment with BOTOX®. These findings show long‐term BoNT‐A treatment to be both safe and efficacious for a wide variety of indications.
A Global Indicator for Biological Invasion
Authors: McGEOCH MELODIE A. , CHOWN STEVEN L. , KALWIJ JESSE M.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  “Trends in invasive alien species” is one of only two indicators of threat to biodiversity that form part of the Convention on Biological Diversity's (CBD) framework for monitoring progress toward its “2010 target” (i.e., the commitment to achieve by 2010 a significant reduction in the current rate of biodiversity loss). To date, however, there is no fully developed indicator for invasive alien species (IAS) that combines trends, derived from a standard set of methods, across species groups, ecosystems, and regions. Here we provide a rationale for the form and characteristics of an indicator of trends in IAS that will meet the 2010 framework goal and targets for this indicator. We suggest single and composite indicators that include problem‐status and management‐status measures that are designed to be flexible, readily disaggregated, and as far as possible draw on existing data. The single indicators at national and global scales are number of IAS and numbers of operational management plans for IAS. Global trends in IAS are measured as the progress of nations toward the targets of stabilizing IAS numbers and the implementation of IAS management plans. The proposed global indicator thus represents a minimum information set that most directly addresses the indicator objective and simultaneously aims to maximize national participation. This global indicator now requires testing to assess its accuracy, sensitivity, and tractability. Although it may not be possible to achieve the desired objective for a global indicator of biological invasion by 2010 as comprehensively as desired, it seems possible to obtain trend estimates for a component of the taxa, ecosystems, and regions involved. Importantly, current indicator development initiatives will also contribute to developing the mechanisms necessary for monitoring global trends in IAS beyond 2010.
Authority, Autonomy, and Family Relationships Among Adolescents in Urban and Rural China
Authors: Zhang Wenxin , Fuligni Andrew J.
Published: November 2006

Approximately 700 urban and rural 10th‐ (M=16.6 years) and 12th‐ (M=18.9 years) grade students in China completed measures assessing their beliefs about parental authority and individual autonomy, as well as aspects of their relationships with their parents. Urban adolescents indicated a greater willingness to disagree openly with their parents, a greater intensity of conflict with their parents, lower levels of cohesion with their parents, and a lower frequency of discussions with their fathers. Urban males were distinct from all other adolescents in terms of several aspects of their family relationships, reporting the earliest expectations for autonomy, the lowest levels of closeness with their mothers, and the least frequent discussions with their fathers.
Molecular Phylogeny of Stentor (Ciliophora: Heterotrichea) Based on Small Subunit Ribosomal RNA Sequences
Authors: GONG YING‐CHUN , YU YU‐HE , ZHU FEI‐YUN , FENG WEI‐SONG
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT. To determine the phylogenetic position of Stentor within the Class Heterotrichea, the complete small subunit rRNA genes of three Stentor species, namely Stentor polymorphus, Stentor coeruleus, and Stentor roeseli, were sequenced and used to construct phylogenetic trees using the maximum parsimony, neighbor joining, and Bayesian analysis. With all phylogenetic methods, the genus Stentor was monophyletic, with S. roeseli branching basally.
Visual Attention and Expertise for Forensic Signature Analysis
Authors: Dyer Adrian G. , Found Bryan , Rogers Doug
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT: Eye tracking was used to measure visual attention of nine forensic document examiners (FDEs) and 12 control subjects on a blind signature comparison trial. Subjects evaluated 32 questioned signatures (16 genuine, eight disguised, and eight forged) which were compared, on screen, with four known signatures of the specimen provider while their eye movements, response times, and opinions were recorded. FDEs' opinions were significantly more accurate than controls, providing further evidence of FDE expertise. Both control and FDE subjects looked at signature features in a very similar way and the difference in the accuracy of their opinions can be accounted for by different cognitive processing of the visual information that they extract from the images. In a separate experiment the FDEs re‐examined a reordered set of the same 32 questioned signatures. In this phase each signature was presented for only 100 msec to test if eye movements are relevant in forming opinions; performance significantly dropped, but not to chance levels indicating that the examination process comprises a combination of both global and local feature extraction strategies.
Minnesota Population Data on 15 STR Loci Using the Identifiler® Kit
Authors: Gross Ann Marie , Budowle Bruce
Published: November 2006

POPULATION: Six hundred and seventy‐one unrelated individuals from Minnesota, USA.
Genetic Analysis for Y Chromosome Short Tandem Repeat Haplotypes of Chinese Han Population Residing in the Ningxia Province of China
Authors: Zhu Bofeng , Deng Yajun , Zhang Feixiong , Wei Wujun , Chen Liping , Zhao Jie , He Yongfeng , Tian Yingfang , Xu Yongcheng , Yu Rongjun , Fang Junbang , Liu Yao
Published: November 2006

POPULATION: One hundred and one unrelated, autochthonous healthy males of the Chinese Han population living in Yongning county of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of China.
Y‐STR Concordance Study Between Y‐Plex™5, Y‐Plex™6, Y‐Plex™12, Powerplex®Y, Y‐Filer™, MPI, and MPII
Authors: Gross Ann Marie , Berdos Paulina , Ballantyne Jack
Published: November 2006

POPULATION: Minnesota Hispanics and Minnesota Asians.
Y Chromosomal Short Tandem Repeat Haplotypes in the Japanese Population
Authors: Tamura Akiyoshi , Iwata Misa , Takase Izumi , Miyazaki Tokiko , Fukunishi Shinya , Nishio Hajime , Suzuki Koichi
Published: November 2006

POPULATION: One hundred and twenty randomly collected Japanese males living in Osaka Prefecture.
Haplotype Diversity at 20 Y‐Chromosome Microsatellites in an Indo‐Caucasian Population of Bengal, India
Authors: Singh Anamika , Trivedi R. , Kashyap V. K.
Published: November 2006

POPULATION: Sixty‐one Indo‐Caucasian individuals from eastern India.
Aetiology of Opuntia ficus‐indica malformations and stunting disease
Authors: Granata G. , Paltrinieri S. , Botti S. , Bertaccini A.
Published: November 2006

The phytoplasma aetiology of epidemic stunting of cladodes and stunted growth observed in a cactus pear plantation in Carlentini (Sicily, Italy) was investigated with graft inoculation trials and PCR/restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses of 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene and S3 ribosomal protein gene. After sequencing of the 1525‐bp from 16S rRNA gene of both naturally infected and graft‐inoculated symptomatic cactus pear samples, phytoplasma TS belonging to ribosomal subgroup 16SrII‐C were identified as aetiological agents of this worldwide spread disease.
The Effect of Brine Ingredients on Carrot Texture during Thermal Processing in Relation to Pectin Depolymerization due to the β‐Elimination Reaction
Authors: Vu Trong Son , Smout Chantal , Sila D.N. , Van Loey Ann M.L , Hendrickx Marc E.G
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Thermal texture degradation of carrots was studied at a temperature of 100 °C in aqueous solutions containing sodium chloride, citric acid, ascorbic acid, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) at different concentrations. To enhance the texture of the final product, the carrot samples were pretreated at 65 °C for 30 min in an aqueous calcium chloride solution (5 g/L). For all case studies considered, the pH of the solutions was adjusted to pH = 6.0. In parallel, both the changes in degree of esterification (DE) and the progress of the β‐elimination reaction of carrot pectin under the same conditions were investigated. The kinetic parameters for texture degradation (rate constant kt and final texture value [TP∞/TP0]) were estimated using a fractional conversion model. The results indicate that both the rate constant for texture degradation (kt) and the rate constant for the β‐elimination reaction (kb) increased with increasing additive concentration, while the final texture values (TP∞/TP0) and DE decreased with increasing additive concentration in all systems studied. A high correlation was observed between the relative rate constant for texture degradation and the relative rate constant for the β‐elimination reaction on the one hand, and the relative final texture value and the relative rate constant for the β‐elimination reaction on the other hand, suggesting that the influence of the solutes on texture degradation can be explained by their influence on the β‐elimination reaction.
Characteristic Property of Low Bitterness in Protein Hydrolysates by a Novel Soybean Protease D3
Authors: Kodera Tomohiro , Asano Minao , Nio Noriki
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Enzymatic hydrolysis is 1 means of improving the functional properties of food protein; however, in most cases, bitter peptides are generated by such treatment, and the resulting product is therefore not acceptable as a food ingredient. We have already reported a novel cysteine protease, D3, purified from germinating soybean cotyledons. Because of its substrate specificities, most hydrophobic amino acid residues in the hydrolysate are presumed not to be located at the peptide termini. It was therefore expected that protein hydrolysate by protease D3 would taste less bitter than other enzymatic hydrolysates. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the low bitterness of protein hydrolysates by protease D3. For that purpose, soy protein and casein hydrolysates were prepared with treatment of protease D3, subtilisin, pepsin, trypsin, and thermolysin, respectively. The bitterness of these hydrolysates was evaluated by measuring points of subjective equality (PSE). The PSE value demonstrated that the protein hydrolysates by protease D3 were significantly less bitter than the other enzymatic hydrolysates, indicating that the products had a taste mild enough to be acceptable as a less‐bitter peptide food ingredient. These results suggested that a prominent feature of protease D3 was its capacity to produce less‐bitter peptides. Therefore, it is thought that protease D3 could be applied to produce protein hydrolysates for use as ingredients in a variety of food products.
Influence of Lees Contact on Evolution of Amines in Chardonnay Wine
Authors: González‐Marco Ana , Ancín‐Azpilicueta Carmen
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Some white wines of Chardonnay variety are aged on their lees in oak barrels over several months. Over this period, autolysis takes place and different compounds are freed in the wine, among them, nitrogen compounds. The aim of this work was to study the evolution of amines in Chardonnay wine during 180 d of maturation on lees, with and without weekly stirring. The process was carried out in new French oak barrels with 225 L capacity. From the results obtained it was found that weekly stirring mainly had an influence on histamine and tyramine concentration. The concentration of these amines at the end of the aging period was higher in the wine with weekly stirring. This treatment showed no effect on the amine concentration at the beginning of the wine aging on lees. The aging time also had an influence on the concentration of amines in the Chardonnay wine.
Carbon Monoxide as a Colorant in Cooked or Fermented Sausages
Authors: Sørheim O. , Langsrud Ø. , Cornforth D.P. , Johannessen T.C. , Slinde E. , Berg P. , Nesbakken T.
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  The study aimed at substituting nitrite with carbon monoxide (CO) in cooked or fermented meat batter products by investigating color and color stability in myoglobin solutions, model meat systems, and full‐scale hotdog and salami sausages of pork and beef. For cooked model meat systems and hotdogs at 75 to 80 °C core temperatures, direct flushing with a 1% CO gas mixture during the last stage of the batter chopping produced an initial red color equal to nitrite or more intense than with nitrite. For fermented model meat systems and salami sausages with a final pH of 4.7, pretreatment and storage of ground raw meat in a 1% CO mixture, and later use of the pretreated meat in batters, also formed an initial red color in the final products. The color stability during air and light display of cooked and fermented meat products with CO was inadequate compared to products with nitrite, although the red color of CO products was largely maintained by anaerobic packaging and storage. Spectra of carboxy‐ and nitrosomyoglobin at pH 4.7 demonstrated higher absorbance for carboxymyoglobin.
Effects of Dietary Functional Ingredients and Irradiation on the Quality of Cooked Turkey Breast Meat during Storage
Authors: Yan H.J. , Lee E.J. , Nam K.C. , Min B.R. , Ahn D.U.
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Patties were prepared using the breast meat from 15‐wk‐old turkeys fed one of the 8 dietary treatments [Con, control; VE, 200 IU/kg vitamin E; Se, 0.3 mg/kg selenium; CLA, 2.5% conjugated linoleic acids; VE + Se, 200 IU/kg vitamin E + 0.3 mg/kg selenium; VE + CLA, 200 IU/kg vitamin E + 2.5% CLA; Se + CLA, 0.3 mg/kg selenium + 2.5% CLA; VE + Se + CLA, 200 IU/kg vitamin E + 0.3 mg/kg selenium + 2.5% CLA] for 4 wk. Patties were vacuum‐packaged in oxygen‐impermeable bags, and then irradiated with 0 or 1.5 kGy. Irradiated breast meats were cooked and vacuum‐packaged or aerobically packaged, and the quality of meat was evaluated after 0 and 7 d of storage at 4 °C. Dietary VE + Se, VE + CLA, Se + CLA, and VE + Se + CLA treatments reduced lipid oxidation of cooked irradiated (1.5 kGy) turkey breast meat by 24%, 29%, 26%, and 40%, respectively, compared to that of the control after 7 d of storage under aerobic conditions. Dietary treatments had no influences on the color of nonirradiated cooked turkey breast. However, dietary VE and Se decreased the internal a* value of irradiated meats in vacuum packaging at days 0 and 7, and the effect was even greater when VE and Se were combined with CLA. Dietary VE, Se, and CLA combinations significantly reduced the production of volatiles, especially those related to lipid oxidation. Dietary VE + Se, VE + CLA, and VE + Se + CLA reduced the difference in sulfur‐containing compounds between irradiated and nonirradiated meat. Aerobic packaging was more effective than vacuum packaging in reducing sulfur‐containing compounds. Therefore, dietary VE, Se, and CLA combinations plus aerobic packaging were effective in reducing the odor problems induced by irradiation.
Crack Development in Individually Quick Frozen Cut and Peel Carrots
Authors: Joy Phillip , Lada Rajasekaran
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Crack development during freezing (CDF) is one of the major challenges in individually quick frozen (IQF) cut and peel carrot processing. The effects of processing and freezer storage on crack development were examined on the cut and peel carrot variety, Sugarsnax. Carrot samples were removed from the major processing steps, the trans‐slicer, the shaper, the blancher, and the dryer, and examined for crack development by measuring percentage cracked, crack morphology, total soluble solids, moisture levels, and membrane injury index immediately after processing. These parameters were also examined following 20 wk of standard freezer storage for cut and peels. Approximately 2% of nonprocessed carrots were cracked compared to 45% of carrots after the initial trans‐slicing stage. As the processing continued, cracking decreased due to the removal of the outer epidermis to 16% of the finished product. This suggests that CDF was initiated at the 1st processing stage. Crack width and depth were 2.3 and 2.6 mm, respectively, at the trans‐slicer stage and decreased to 1.1 and 1.8 mm at the end of the line. It was found that CDF was further exacerbated by freezer storage due to inefficient water removal at the dryer stage. Crack width and depth increased to 1.5 and 3.0 mm after 20 wk for freezer storage. Root size also played a role in CDF, suggesting that larger pieces are more susceptible to crack development. Total soluble solid concentrations did not play a role in crack formation during cut and peel processing.
NMR State Diagram Concept
Authors: Lin Xiangyang , Ruan Roger , Chen Paul , Chung Myongsoo , Ye Xiaofei , Yang Tom , Doona Chris , Wagner Tom
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  This article introduces a new concept, the NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) state diagram, in the context of food shelf‐life stability as affected by the molecular mobility of the food matrix. Our literature review shows that some shelf‐life–related changes cannot be explained or predicted by the current aw and glass transition temperature concepts. This article presents the theoretical principles and some experimental evidence of the NMR state diagram concept that could be complementary to the aw and glass transition concepts. An NMR state diagram is a curve of NMR relaxation time versus temperature. Some of the curve features were found to correlate highly to the physiochemical states and changes of food polymers, for example, caking, stickiness, and firming. The potential applications of this concept in quality and safety of food products, especially dry and intermediate moist foods, may include ingredients screening, prediction of physiochemical changes, chemical degradation, and microbiological activity. The goal concept of this article is to provoke more in‐depth studies to analyze the relationships among NMR relaxation, molecular mobility, and stability of foods.
Organic Foods
Authors: Winter Carl K. , Davis Sarah F.
Published: November 2006

The Inst. of Food Technologists has issued this Scientific Status Summary to update readers on the organic foods industry.
The role of shock waves in expansion tube accelerators
Authors: Olson G. , Peterson Richard , Pulford B. , Seaberg M. , Stein K. , Stelter C. , Weber R.
Published: November 2006

Simulations are combined with laboratory measurements to show the important role of shock waves in a popular physics demonstration, the “ping pong cannon.” The simulation and measurements confirm a developing shock wave that reflects from the end of the closed tube and approaching ball and the eventual formation of a transient localized pressure build-up near the exit tape barrier. This 2atm burst of pressure peaks within a few microseconds of the ball’s arrival, resulting from the combination of near ambient gas density and shock heating to about 1200K. Pulsed schlieren images beyond the exit confirm the sequence of internally reflected shock waves and the intense, hot air pressure pulse that explosively removes the exit tape just prior to the ball arrival.