bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review article: controversies in the management of primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Karlsen T. H. , Vesterhus M. , Boberg K. M.
Published: December 2013

Background

Despite considerable advances over the last two decades in the molecular understanding of cholestasis and cholestatic liver disease, little improvement has been made in diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies.

Aims

To critically review controversial aspects of the scientific basis for common clinical practice in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and to discuss key ongoing challenges to improve patient management.

Methods

We performed a literature search using PubMed and by examining the reference lists of relevant review articles related to the clinical management of PBC and PSC. Articles were considered on the background of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) practice guidelines and clinical experience of the authors.

Results

Ongoing challenges in PBC mainly pertain to the improvement of medical therapy, particularly for patients with a suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid. In PSC, development of medical therapies and sensitive screening protocols for cholangiocarcinoma represent areas of intense research. To rationally improve patient management, a better understanding of pathogenesis, including complications like pruritis and fatigue, is needed and there is a need to identify biomarker end‐points for treatment effect and prognosis. Timing of liver transplantation and determining optimal regimens of immunosuppression post‐liver transplantation will also benefit from better appreciation of pre‐transplant disease mechanisms.

Conclusion

Controversies in the management of PBC and PSC relate to topics where evidence for current practice is weak and further research is needed.
Oxygen–Glucose‐Deprived Rat Primary Neural Cells Exhibit DJ‐1 Translocation into Healthy Mitochondria: A Potent Stroke Therapeutic Target
Authors: Kaneko Yuji , Tajiri Naoki , Shojo Hideki , Borlongan Cesar V.
Published: December 2013

Aims

DJ‐1 is a key redox‐reactive neuroprotective protein implicated in regulation of oxidative stress after stroke. However, the molecular mechanism, especially the role of mitochondrial function, by which DJ‐1 protects neural cells in stroke remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to reveal whether DJ‐1 translocates into the mitochondria in exerting neuroprotection against oxidative stress. In particular, we examined DJ‐1 secretion from primary rat neural cells (PRNCs) exposed to experimental stroke.

Methods

Primary rat neural cells were exposed to the oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD), an established in vitro stroke model, and DJ‐1 translocation was measured by immunocytochemistry, and its secretion detected by ELISA.

Results

Under OGD, DJ‐1 translocated into the healthy mitochondria, and significant levels of DJ‐1 protein were detected. Treatment with anti‐DJ‐1 antibody reduced cell viability and mitochondrial activity, and increased glutathione level. Interestingly, OGD reversed the ratio of astrocyte/neuron cells (6/4 to 4/6).

Conclusions

Altogether, these results revealed that DJ‐1 participates in the acute endogenous neuroprotection after stroke via the mitochondrial pathway. That DJ‐1 was detected immediately after stroke and efficiently translocated into the mitochondria offer a new venue for developing neuroprotective and/or neurorestorative strategies against ischemic stroke.
Intracranial calcification in childhood: a review of aetiologies and recognizable phenotypes
Authors: Livingston John H , Stivaros Stavros , Warren Dan , Crow Yanick J
Published: December 2013

Intracranial calcification (ICC) is a common finding on neuroimaging in paediatric neurology practice. In approximately half of all cases the calcification occurs in damaged, neoplastic, or malformed brain. For the large number of other disorders in which ICC occurs, no common pathogenetic mechanism can be suggested. Congenital infection, particularly with cytomegalovirus, accounts for a significant proportion of all cases. However, some genetic diseases, in particular Aicardi–Goutières syndrome, Band‐like calcification, and RNASET2‐related disease, may mimic congenital infection; therefore, a full consideration of the radiological and clinical features is necessary before concluding that congenital infection is the cause. In some disorders calcification is a universal finding, in others it is a frequent occurrence, and in some it is only an occasional finding. Characteristic patterns of calcification are seen in a number of conditions, and a systematic approach to the identification and description of radiological findings, taken together in the context of the clinical scenario, allows a diagnosis to be made in many cases. Nonetheless, there remain a number of presumed genetic disorders associated with ICC for which the underlying molecular cause has not yet been identified.
Urotensin‐II receptor is over‐expressed in colon cancer cell lines and in colon carcinoma in humans
Authors: Federico Alessandro , Zappavigna Silvia , Romano Marco , Grieco Paolo , Luce Amalia , Marra Monica , Gravina Antonietta Gerarda , Stiuso Paola , D'Armiento Francesco Paolo , Vitale Giovanni , Tuccillo Concetta , Novellino Ettore , Loguercio Carmela , Caraglia Michele
Published: December 2013

Background

Urotensin (U)‐II receptor (UTR) has been previously reported to be over‐expressed in a number of tumours. Whether UTR‐related pathway plays a role in colon carcinogenesis is unknown.

Methods

We evaluated UTR protein and mRNA expression in human epithelial colon cancer cell lines and in normal colon tissue, adenomatous polyps and colon cancer. U‐II protein expression was assessed in cancer cell lines. Moreover, we evaluated the effects of U‐II(4‐11) (an UTR agonist), antagonists and knockdown of UTR protein expression through a specific shRNA, on proliferation, invasion and motility of human colon cancer cells.

Results

Cancer cell lines expressed U‐II protein and UTR protein and mRNA. By immunohistochemistry, UTR was expressed in 5–30% of epithelial cells in 45 normal controls, in 30–48% in 21 adenomatous polyps and in 65–90% in 48 colon adenocarcinomas. UTR mRNA expression was increased by threefold in adenomatous polyps and eightfold in colon cancer, compared with normal colon. U‐II(4‐11) induced a 20–40% increase in cell growth while the blockade of the receptor with specific antagonists caused growth inhibition of 20–40%. Moreover, the knock down of UTR with a shRNA or the inhibition of UTR with the antagonist urantide induced an approximately 50% inhibition of both motility and invasion.

Conclusions

UTR appears to be involved in the regulation of colon cancer cell invasion and motility. These data suggest that UTR‐related pathway may play a role in colon carcinogenesis and that UTR may function as a target for therapeutic intervention in colon cancer.
Plant‐mediated effects of host plant density on a specialist herbivore of Solanum carolinense
Authors: HALPERN STACEY L. , BEDNAR DAVID , CHISHOLM AMANDA , UNDERWOOD NORA
Published: December 2013

Host plant density can affect insect herbivore oviposition behaviour, which can, in turn, affect both plant and herbivore populations. Because clear generalisations about density effects on oviposition remain elusive, a better understanding of underlying mechanisms is needed. One such mechanism is plant‐mediated effects (i.e. changes in plant traits with density), which are often suggested but rarely isolated experimentally.

In an experiment directly manipulating host plant density (Solanum carolinense) in the field, oviposition by a specialist herbivore (Leptinotarsa juncta) declined as plant density increased.

A greenhouse cage experiment isolated the effects of plant‐mediated traits by removing neighbour plants before introducing L. juncta females. Oviposition declined as host plant density increased, supporting the importance of plant‐mediated effects in this system.

To determine whether food quality contributed to plant‐mediated effects, larval growth rates were measured on leaves from both field‐ and greenhouse‐grown plants. In both the field and the greenhouse experiments, larval growth rate was not significantly affected by plant density.

It is concluded that plant‐mediated effects contribute to, but do not completely explain, the strong influence of density on oviposition in the field experiment. These results suggest that considering plant‐mediated effects may help to explain variability in herbivore responses to plant density.
Molecular interactions of plant oil components with stratum corneum lipids correlate with clinical measures of skin barrier function
Authors: Mack Correa Mary Catherine , Mao Guangru , Saad Peter , Flach Carol R. , Mendelsohn Richard , Walters Russel M.
Published: December 2013

Plant‐derived oils consisting of triglycerides and small amounts of free fatty acids (FFAs) are commonly used in skincare regimens. FFAs are known to disrupt skin barrier function. The objective of this study was to mechanistically study the effects of FFAs, triglycerides and their mixtures on skin barrier function. The effects of oleic acid (OA), glyceryl trioleate (GT) and OA/GT mixtures on skin barrier were assessed in vivo through measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and fluorescein dye penetration before and after a single application. OA's effects on stratum corneum (SC) lipid order in vivo were measured with infrared spectroscopy through application of perdeuterated OA (OA‐d34). Studies of the interaction of OA and GT with skin lipids included imaging the distribution of OA‐d34 and GT ex vivo with IR microspectroscopy and thermodynamic analysis of mixtures in aqueous monolayers. The oil mixtures increased both TEWL and fluorescein penetration 24 h after a single application in an OA dose‐dependent manner, with the highest increase from treatment with pure OA. OA‐d34 penetrated into skin and disordered SC lipids. Furthermore, the ex vivo IR imaging studies showed that OA‐d34 permeated to the dermal/epidermal junction while GT remained in the SC. The monolayer experiments showed preferential interspecies interactions between OA and SC lipids, while the mixing between GT and SC lipids was not thermodynamically preferred. The FFA component of plant oils may disrupt skin barrier function. The affinity between plant oil components and SC lipids likely determines the extent of their penetration and clinically measurable effects on skin barrier functions.
Characterization of four novel molecular changes in the promoter region of the factor VIII gene
Authors: Nougier C. , Roualdes O. , Fretigny M. , d'Oiron R. , Costa C. , Negrier C. , Vinciguerra C.
Published: December 2013

Haemophilia A (HA) is an X‐linked recessive bleeding disorder, caused by a wide variety of mutations in the factor VIII (F8) gene, leading to deficiency in the activity of coagulation FVIII. These mutations can affect all theF8exons from the initiation codon to the termination codon, however, only few molecular changes in the promoter region of theF8gene were reported so far. Here, we describe six nucleotide variations (c.‐51G>A, c.‐218T>C, c.‐219C>T, c.‐219delC, c.‐221T>A and c.‐664G>A) detected in theF8promoter and their correlation with clinical phenotype of the patients. Potential role of these mutations inHAwas also assessed. Causality was demonstrated with transient transfection experiments using luciferase reporter gene plasmids and computational analysis. Two molecular changes (c.‐51G>A and c.‐664G>A) did not seem to affect the promoter function of theF8gene whereas c.‐218T>C, c.‐219C>T, c.‐219delC, c.‐221T>A mutations had an impact on theF8promoter function and were responsible forHA. Furthermore, these mutations were associated with resistance to 1‐deamino‐8‐d‐argininevasopressin (desmopressin) therapy when they were causative. When molecular variation was detected inF8promoter, we propose to use prediction software and to verify predictions by reporter gene analysis. If the mutation is causative, it will be probably associated with a lack of therapeutic response to desmopressin and this clinical implication should be considered by clinicians.
Absence of peripheral blood chimerism in graft‐vs‐host disease following orthotopic liver transplantation: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Schulman Joshua M. , Yoon Christina , Schwarz Jennifer , Vagefi Parsia A. , Mully Thaddeus W. , Shinkai Kanade
Published: December 2013

Background

Graft‐vs‐host disease (GVHD) is a rare and often fatal complication of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). The skin is frequently involved early in disease progression, but clinical and histopathological features may be nonspecific, presenting a diagnostic challenge. While the detection of peripheral blood chimerism has been proposed as a diagnostic criterion for post‐OLT GVHD, it is not known whether peripheral blood chimerism is an absolute requirement for the diagnosis.

Materials and methods

We report a case of a 57‐year‐old man who developed post‐OLT GVHD with cutaneous, enteric, and bone marrow involvement. We also review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, histopathology, molecular diagnostic techniques, and treatment of GVHD following liver transplantation.

Results

In our patient, analysis of the peripheral blood by short‐tandem repeat polymerase chain reaction did not detect circulating donor lymphocytes. Donor lymphocytes were detected in the buccal mucosa, however, confirming the diagnosis. A review of chimerism patterns in 63 previously published cases of post‐OLT GVHD reveals that this is the first reported case in which chimerism was absent in the peripheral blood but present in another site.

Conclusions

Peripheral blood chimerism may be absent in cases of post‐OLT GVHD. A combination of clinical, histopathological, and molecular features is therefore required to make this challenging diagnosis.
Specific causes of death in patients with bullous pemphigoid as measured by death certificate data: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Barrick Benjamin J. , Lohse Christine M. , Lehman Julia S.
Published: December 2013

Background

Mortality rates in patients with bullous pemphigoid (BP) are higher than those in age‐matched counterparts. However, the specific causes of death in BP subjects have not been evaluated systematically.

Objectives

We sought to characterize the causes of death in patients with BP as recorded by death certificate and to compare these with death data for age‐ and location‐matched control subjects.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort analysis conducted in a large tertiary referral center. Twenty‐seven participants who had a confirmed antemortem diagnosis of BP, were residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, and had died between January 1, 1999, and January 1, 2009, were included in the study. Underlying cause of death and multiple causes of death data for the study population were compared with data sourced from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for a control group matched by age and geographic location of origin by International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD‐10) block, and specific ICD‐10 codes.

Results

Comparisons of specific ICD‐10 codes revealed increased rates of sepsis (P = 0.031), dementia (P = 0.049), and major depressive disorder (P = 0.005) in the study group. The collective incidence of ICD‐10 codes for infections indicated that infections were more frequent contributors to death in the study group (P = 0.035).

Conclusions

Clinicians should be mindful of contributors to death in patients with BP and might consider screening for mental health issues, educating patients on the early symptoms of sepsis, and minimizing risk factors for infection.
The human hair: from anatomy to physiology
Authors: Buffoli Barbara , Rinaldi Fabio , Labanca Mauro , Sorbellini Elisabetta , Trink Anna , Guanziroli Elena , Rezzani Rita , Rodella Luigi F.
Published: December 2013

Background

Hair is a unique character of mammals and has several functions, from protection of the skin to sexual and social communication. In literature, there are various studies about hair that take into consideration different aspects within many fields of science, including biology, dermatology, cosmetics, forensic sciences, and medicine.

Methods

We carried out a search of studies published in PubMed up to 2013.

Results

In this review, we summarized the principal anatomical and physiological aspects of the different types of human hair, and we considered the clinical significance of the different structures and the distribution of the hair in the human body.

Conclusion

This review could be the basis for improvement and progression in the field of hair research.
The “collerette” technique for skin excision and biopsy: an efficient method for managing lentigo maligna of the head and neck
Authors: Kassi Komenan , Vanwijck Romain , Kanga Jean‐Marie
Published: December 2013

Background

Melanoma is responsible for 75% of all skin cancer‐related deaths. Lentigo maligna (LM), the most prevalent melanoma in situ (MIS), accounts for 79–83% of all MIS. Its location in the head and neck area requires that tissue be spared in the course of clearing the tumor.

Methods

We conducted a therapeutic study based on our practice experience with the so‐called “collarette” skin biopsy technique used in the management of LM.

Results

Thirty‐one patients were diagnosed with LM in the head and neck area. These included 16 women and 15 men with a mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of 64.4 ± 13.6 years (range: 33–88 years). The majority (36%) of lesions were located on the cheek. To clear the tumor, surgery was performed using margins of >10 mm in 71% of cases. The average surface area of the surgical defect was 5.8 cm2 (range: 1.1–15.5 cm2). Reconstructive skin grafts were performed in the majority (68%) of cases. After the removal of the central tumor, 16 cases of MIS and 15 cases of invasive melanoma were identified. Only one patient experienced recurrence over a mean ± SD follow‐up of 31 ± 16 months.

Conclusions

The so‐called “collarette” or “spaghetti” skin excision and biopsy technique is an advantageous and efficient way to achieve tumor clearance and represents an equally effective alternative to Mohs micrographic surgery in the treatment of LM in the head and neck area.
An alternative encapsulation approach for production of active chitosan–propolis beads
Authors: Mascheroni Erika , Figoli Alberto , Musatti Alida , Limbo Sara , Drioli Enrico , Suevo Rossella , Talarico Stefania , Rollini Manuela
Published: December 2013

Encapsulation is a promising technology to carry natural active substances, preventing their loss and maintaining their stability until use. Beads of chitosan‐containing propolis have been prepared using a mono‐pore filter device, which permits the encapsulation of natural polyphenols avoiding heat treatments, high shear rates and the use of toxic solvents. Beads proved to be active against Bacillis cereus, Escherichia coli, Listeria innocua, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Yarrovia lipolytica and three moulds strains; the highest effect was found against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 0.8 mg beads mL−1). Results in liquid cultures of S. aureus evidenced that beads were able to release the flavonoids from propolis: the diffusion of the active compounds is a key factor in the exploitation of the microbial activity. The obtained chitosan–propolis beads represent an example of natural antimicrobial delivery system that could be used to prevent the growth of pathogenic/spoilage bacteria in food applications.
Determination of formulation and processing factors affecting slowly digestible starch, protein digestibility and antioxidant capacity of extruded sorghum–maize composite flour
Authors: Licata Rebecca , Chu Jiayue , Wang Shilong , Coorey Ranil , James Anthony , Zhao Yun , Johnson Stuart
Published: December 2013

High‐temperature high‐pressure extrusion of sorghum–maize composite flour, of potential for healthy food manufacture, was investigated by factorial experimental design to determine the effect of level of sorghum in dry mix (15–60%); final barrel zone temperature (120–150 °C); total moisture in barrel (21.4–25.8%); total input rate (2.3–6.8 kg h−1); and screw speed (250–450 rpm) on extrudate slowly digestible starch (SDS), phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, protein digestibility, density and expansion ratio. Extrudate SDS increased with increasing sorghum level and decreased as the barrel temperature increased. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were positively associated with sorghum level. Protein digestibility was associated negatively with sorghum level and positively with barrel temperature. Extrudate density was associated positively with total moisture and negatively with barrel temperature and input rate. Sorghum in dry mix, final barrel zone temperature and total moisture in barrel were the three most significant independent variables influencing extrudate dependant variables.
Physicochemical properties of nanopowdered eggshell
Authors: Mijan Mohammad Al , Kim Dong‐Hwi , Kwak Hae‐Soo
Published: December 2013

This study was carried out to investigate the physicochemical properties of nanopowdered eggshell (NPES). These characteristics were determined based on the particle size, particle morphology, zeta potential, moisture sorption behaviour, purity and crystallinity. Homogeneous, aggregated and spherical crystals of NPES particles were observed through scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The average particle sizes of NPES and powdered eggshell (PES) were 202.3 ± 28.9 nm and 113.89 ± 79.37 μm, respectively. Zeta potentials of NPES (−15.41 mV) suggested an incipient instability of the colloidal system. Moisture sorption analysis indicated a higher water adsorption capacity of NPES than that of PES. X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) analysis confirmed the presence of calcite in both NPES and PES. The chemical compositions of the NPES and PES particles were strongly associated with the presence of calcium carbonate, as determined by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. Therefore, eggshell nanopowder has a great potential to be utilised as a component for biomedical applications.
High pressure processing of garlic paste: effect on the quality attributes
Authors: Eroman Unni Lakshmi , Chauhan Om Prakash , Raju Pakalpati Sreenivasa
Published: December 2013

The effect of high pressure treatment and conventional thermal processing on the various quality attributes of garlic paste was evaluated in terms of physicochemical, enzymatic, sensory and microbiological parameters. Thermal treatment inactivated the polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase enzymes, whereas an enhanced activity was noted at 200 MPa which reduced significantly (P < 0.05) when treated with 400 and 600 MPa. Total phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activities showed an increasing trend with increase in pressure, whereas thermal processing was found to significantly (P < 0.05) decrease these phytocompounds. The CIE (L*, a*, b*) values were found to be better retained in high pressure‐processed pastes compared with thermally treated one. The microbial counts in terms of total plate count, yeast and mould count as well as total coliform counts were reduced significantly (P < 0.05) in both the treatments. Sensory attributes were found to be better in the case of high pressure‐processed samples as compared to the thermally treated one.
Solubilisation of calcium and magnesium from the marine red algae Lithothamnion calcareum
Authors: Zhu Yi‐Shen , Connolly Alan , Guyon Anders , FitzGerald Richard J.
Published: December 2013

Marine minerals are a potential source of calcium and magnesium for nutritional supplementation. This study analysed the solubilisation of calcium and magnesium from the skeletal remains of Lithothamnion calcareum. Scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrated a nonporous microstructure. Spectrophotometric determination showed that the calcium and magnesium contents were 30.01 and 6.22% (w/w), respectively. Solubilisation of calcium and magnesium was highly pH dependent. The temperature‐dependent solubilisation of calcium fitted the shrinking core model. The apparent activation energy for calcium solubilisation was 28.6 kJ mol−1. Inclusion of caseinophosphopeptides (CPPs), casein‐derived mineral binding peptides, during the solubilisation of calcium and magnesium appeared to decrease the extent of calcium solubilisation at pH 6.0 and 8.0. The results herein have implications for the choice of optimal pH conditions for the sustained release of calcium and magnesium from marine mineral sources.
Selective elution of tea catechins and caffeine from polyvinylpolypyrrolidone
Authors: Fan Fang‐Yuan , Gan Quan , Dong Zhan‐Bo , Song Kwan‐Jeong , Zheng Xin‐Qiang , Liang Yue‐Rong , Lu Jian‐Liang
Published: December 2013

Desorption of catechins and caffeine from polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) was comprehensively investigated. The result showed that caffeine could easily be desorbed from PVPP by the tested solvents except n‐hexane, while catechins could only be thoroughly done by dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) and N, N‐dimethylformamide (DMF). Excellent desorption efficiency of DMSO and DMF might be attributed to their high dipole moments and H‐bond potentials. Addition of ethanol was recommended considering the elution efficiency and fluidity, but ethanol volume should be <40% (v/v) for DMSO or 20% (v/v) for DMF. Desorption would get to equilibrium within 1 h and followed the pseudo‐second‐order model. Caffeine and catechins could be separately desorbed through two‐stage elution procedure, that is, water or 20% aqueous ethanol for desorbing caffeine and part of nongalloylated catechins and DMSO/ethanol (8/2, v/v) for eluting the remaining catechins. Highly purified catechins (~95%) with high level (~70%) galloylated catechins would be achieved when the desorption procedure was applied in column chromatograph.
Oxidative stability of fish oil‐in‐water emulsions under high‐pressure treatment
Authors: Zhu Xiangqian , Ye Aiqian , Teo Herman Jiahan , Lim Shuying Jeanne , Singh Harjinder
Published: December 2013

Over the last decade, high‐pressure treatment has been of considerable interest as an alternative to thermal treatment for food preservation and processing. The impact of high‐pressure treatment on lipid oxidation in fish oil‐in‐water emulsions stabilised by 0.5 wt% whey protein isolate or sodium caseinate was investigated by determining thiobarbituric acid (TBA), propanal values and hydroperoxide values (PVs). The TBA value and the PV of all emulsions increased with increasing pressure at low temperature, indicating that lipid oxidation was promoted by high‐pressure treatment. The impact of high‐pressure treatment on the oxidative stability of lipids was increased when the temperature was increased as the TBA and propanal values were markedly enhanced by high pressure at high temperature. However, high‐pressure treatment did not affect the antioxidant properties of whey protein isolate and sodium caseinate in the fish oil‐in‐water emulsions, which may suggest that high‐pressure treatment does not alter the lipid oxidation pathway in emulsion systems. The promotion of lipid oxidation by high pressure is due mainly to increasing the pressure on a gas reaction shifts the position of equilibrium towards the side with fewer gas molecules.
A comparative study of the analytical methods for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in seafood by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
Authors: Yoo Miyoung , Lee Sanghee , Kim Sunyoung , Kim Su‐ji , Seo Hye‐young , Shin Dongbin
Published: December 2013

This study was performed to establish a rapid analytical method to determine the presence of fourteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in seafoods by high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC/FLD). The samples were prepared using two methods: the Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe (QuEChERS) method and the alkali digestion method. The QuEChERS method involved a convenient and effective solid–liquid extraction and a simple purification. The alkali digestion method was comprised of a liquid–liquid extraction after saponification with potassium hydroxide followed by purification. The limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantification (LOQs) of the QuEChERS method ranged from 0.05 to 1.60 μg kg−1, and those of the alkali digestion method ranged from 0.28 to 5.18 μg kg−1. The repeatability for all target analytes was similar for the two methods, that is, 0.66–4.24% and 0.26–5.75% for the QuEChERS and alkali digestion methods, respectively. At analyte concentrations of 2.5–50 μg kg−1, the recovery of the QuEChERS method ranged from 86.87% to 115.67% and that of the alkali digestion method ranged from 69.22% to 100.21%.
Lactulose: production and use in functional food, medical and pharmaceutical applications. Practical and critical review
Authors: Aït‐Aissa Amara , Aïder Mohammed
Published: December 2013

Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide. It can be obtained from lactose by chemical, enzymatic or by electro‐activation synthesis. This review provides the comprehension of lactulose production and its application in medical, pharmaceutical and functional food applications. Lactulose can be used in medical and pharmaceutical applications for the treatment of diseases such as chronic constipation, therapy of portal systemic encephalopathy, inflammatory bowel disease, reducing blood ammonia levels, colon carcinogenesis, tumour prevention and immunology, mineral absorption and for the inhibition of the secondary bile acid formation. However, with the growing interest in functional foods, the use of nondigestible oligosaccharides such as prebiotic ingredients has increased considerably during the recent years. In this context, lactulose as a well‐recognised prebiotic offers excellent possibilities to develop new functional foods. It can be added to several foods.
The effects of processing and packaging parameters on the occurrence of sulphide black in canned meat
Authors: Dantas Fiorella B. H. , Dantas Sílvia T. , Moitinho Daisy , Albers Carolina C. M. , Pollonio Marise A. R.
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the packaging and processing parameters that produce sulphide black in corned beef. Twenty experimental batches were prepared, and in order to evaluate the effect of the packaging manufacturing process, variations were introduced in the tin layer, in the cure of lacquer applied inside and in the presence or absence of superficial scratches in the lacquer. Processing parameters, such as sterilising time and temperature as well as filling temperatures, were evaluated. The visual evaluation carried out to check the occurrence of black spots and the statistical analysis of variance with 95% confidence interval showed that the lids that were produced with a greater total tin layer (5.6 g m−2), with normal cure (200 °C) and without scratches had a lower occurrence of the problem. The analyses also showed that the use of filling temperatures lower than 40 °C decreased the presence of black spots.
Comparing effects of α‐ vs. β‐chitosan coating and emulsion coatings on egg quality during room temperature storage
Authors: Pujols Kairy Dharali , Osorio Luis , Carrillo Elsy Paola , Wardy Wisdom , Torrico Damir Dennis , No Hong Kyoon , Corredor José Andrés Herrera , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: December 2013

Effects of α‐ and β‐chitosan (CH), soybean oil (SO) and their emulsions (CH:SO = 2:3) as coating materials on selected internal quality and sensory properties of eggs were evaluated during 5 weeks storage at 25 °C. After 3 weeks of storage, α‐ and β‐CH‐coated eggs changed to B grade, while SO‐ and emulsion‐coated eggs preserved grade A quality. Weight loss of eggs coated with SO and CH:SO emulsions was <2.0% vs. 5.3–5.8% for noncoated and CH‐coated eggs after 5 weeks of storage. β‐CH (0.9%) maintained lower weight loss of eggs than α‐CH (1.2%) only at 1‐week storage. Albumen pH of eggs coated with SO and CH:SO emulsions decreased progressively throughout storage. Eggs coated with β‐CH:SO emulsion and SO were significantly glossier than noncoated eggs. Consumers indicated positive purchase intent (69.17–76.67%) for all coated eggs. Overall, α‐CH:SO and β‐CH:SO emulsions extended egg shelf life by at least 3 weeks during room temperature storage.
Bioactive compounds in bamboo shoots: health benefits and prospects for developing functional foods
Authors: Nirmala Chongtham , Bisht Madho Singh , Laishram Manikanta
Published: December 2013

Juvenile bamboo shoots have long been used as food and in traditional medicine in many Asian countries, but scientific evidences of its health benefits have been highlighted recently. According to ancient Chinese medicinal books, the consumption of young shoots helps in improving digestion, relieving hypertension, sweating, preventing cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The young shoots are delicious and rich in nutrient components such as proteins, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins and bioactive compounds. The health benefits of the young shoots are attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds mainly phenols, phytosterols and dietary fibres, which play a potential role in health promotion and providing protection against many chronic and degenerative diseases. Phenolic compounds in bamboos have multiple biological effects such as antioxidation, anti‐ageing, antifatigue, antimicrobial and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Dietary fibres and phytosterols have a beneficial effect on lipid profile and bowel function and reduce total serum cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level. This study discusses the bioactive compounds in bamboo shoots and how, due to its nutritive value and health benefits, the shoots can be utilised as an ingredient in the development of functional foods.
Physicochemical and descriptive sensory characterization of Spanish pomegranates: aptitudes for processing and fresh consumption
Authors: Vázquez‐Araújo Laura , Nuncio‐Jáuregui Paloma N. , Cherdchu Panat , Hernández Francisca , Chambers Edgar , Carbonell‐Barrachina Ángel A.
Published: December 2013

Pomegranate fruit and its products are being widely promoted to consumers as healthy alternatives for their daily diet. The aim was to study the main sensory differences among twenty pomegranate cultivars, determining which cultivars have particular flavour or texture notes that could make them more appropriate for fresh consumption or processing. Four clusters grouped all samples, two of them included sour cultivars and two of them included sweet and sweet‐sour cultivars. Cluster 1 (sour) was characterized by having floral, apple, and grape flavour notes and also producing a tongue numbing sensation. Cluster 2 (sour), which included the Wonderful cultivar, had samples with wine‐like attributes. Clusters 3 and 4 (sweet and sour‐sweet) were characterized by having overall sweet, pear and grape notes for cluster 3, and beet, fruity‐dark, fermented, musty and woody flavour for cluster 4.
Use of ultrasonication to enhance pea seed germination and microbial quality of pea sprouts
Authors: Chiu Kai Ying , Sung Jih Min
Published: December 2013

This study investigated the effects of ultrasonication, heating and chemical washing on decontamination of seeds of three pea (Pisum sativum) varieties and the microbial safety of their sprouts. Most of the decontamination treatments increased germination, decreased microbial load and enhanced sprout growth. Ultrasonication and NaOCl treatments reduced total aerobic counts on sprouts by 5.86 and 5.51 log units (averages of three varieties), respectively; while other chemical treatments (350 mL L−1 ethanol, 350 mL L−1 vinegar and 10 g L−1 NaCl solutions) failed to reduce total aerobic counts sufficiently enough to secure microbial safety. The ultrasonication not only improved germination (increased from an average of 83 to 97%), but also reduced the total aerobic counts to 2.21 log10 CFU g−1 on seed sprouts. Ultrasonication also increased the sprouts yield to 301.83 g per 10 g seeds. Therefore, ultrasonication can be used as a microbial control treatment for pea sprout production.
Prevalence of Molar–Incisor–Hypomineralisation among school children in four German cities
Authors: Petrou Marina Agathi , Giraki Maria , Bissar Abdul‐Razak , Basner Roger , Wempe Cornelia , Altarabulsi Mohammad Basel , Schäfer Michael , Schiffner Ulrich , Beikler Thomas , Schulte Andreas G. , Splieth Christian H.
Published: December 2013

Background

A wide range for the prevalence of Molar–Incisor–Hypomineralisation (MIH) has been found in regional studies.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of MIH in Germany and to compare the findings with other studies.

Design

In the compulsory dental school examination, the first permanent molars, permanent incisors, and second primary molars were examined according to EAPD criteria in 2395 children (8.1 ± 0.8 years) in four regions in Germany for the presence of MIH. Examinations were performed by five calibrated examiners (κ = 0.9) on clean teeth after toothbrushing.

Results

The prevalence of MIH at the four regions differed considerably (4.3–14.6%) with a mean prevalence of 10.1%. The DMFT/dmft was generally low, but children with MIH exhibited statistically significant higher caries values. A total of 12.0% of the children with MIH also had at least one affected primary molar, which resulted in a statistically significant correlation between primary and permanent teeth. Most of the affected teeth had demarcated opacities, but more than half of the affected children showed at least one tooth with severe MIH.

Conclusions

Molar–Incisor–Hypomineralisation is a prevalent finding in German school children. The prevalence varies highly in different regions, and the high rate of severe forms has clinically relevant implications.
Mathematical programming as a tool for virtual soccer coaches: a case study of a fantasy sport game
Authors: Bonomo F. , Durán G. , Marenco J.
Published: December 2013

General awareness of the potential of mathematics to support sports decision making has been raised by the movie “Moneyball” through its portrayal of a real professional American baseball club that used mathematical tools to improve team performance. This article addresses the same challenge using as a test case a fantasy sport game organized by an Argentinian newspaper. Two mathematical programming models are presented that act as virtual coaches that choose a virtual team lineup for each round of the real Argentinian soccer league. The a priori design creates a competitive team for the game, while the a posteriori model determines what would have been its optimal lineup once the season is over and all the results are known. The a priori model was entered in the fantasy game, achieving results that positioned it among the highest scoring participants. Further development of such models would provide useful tools for supporting decision making by coaches or managers of real sports.
Expectation‐induced placebo responses fail to accelerate wound healing in healthy volunteers: results from a prospective controlled experimental trial
Authors: Vits Sabine , Dissemond Joachim , Schadendorf Dirk , Kriegler Lisa , Körber Andreas , Schedlowski Manfred , Cesko Elvir
Published: December 2013

Placebo responses have been shown to affect the symptomatology of skin diseases. However, expectation‐induced placebo effects on wound healing processes have not been investigated yet. We analysed whether subjects' expectation of receiving an active drug accelerates the healing process of experimentally induced wounds. In 22 healthy men (experimental group, n = 11; control group, n = 11) wounds were induced by ablative laser on both thighs. Using a deceptive paradigm, participants in the experimental group were informed that an innovative ‘wound gel’ was applied on one of the two wounds, whereas a ‘non‐active gel’ was applied on the wound of the other thigh. In fact, both gels were identical hydrogels without any active components. A control group was informed to receive a non‐active gel on both wounds. Progress in wound healing was documented via planimetry on days 1, 4 and 7 after wound induction. From day 9 onwards wound inspections were performed daily accompanied by a change of the dressing and a new application of the gel. No significant differences could be observed with regard to duration or process of wound healing, either by intraindividual or by interindividual comparisons. These data document no expectation‐induced placebo effect on the healing process of experimentally induced wounds in healthy volunteers.
Capital Inflows to Greece, Spain, Portugal and Ireland: A Sector‐Level View
Authors: Ebner André
Published: December 2013

Greece, Spain, Portugal and Ireland have accumulated large foreign net liabilities, exposing them to increased financial market pressure during the current crisis period. This analysis decomposes cumulated lending and borrowing over the past decade into sector‐level contributions and compares them with the euro area average. It shows strong borrowing by households and non‐financial corporations with government further increasing net borrowing in Greece and Portugal. Financial corporations act in this context as intermediaries between foreign savings and domestic borrowers. The sector‐level contributions to an economy's foreign net liabilities vary significantly by country, which implies a need for different adjustment paths. In a currency union, given the absence of a mechanism for transfer payments between member states, there is a heightened risk that large foreign liabilities will become unsustainable. Thus, member states must contain external imbalances, which often reflect a loss of competitiveness and internal imbalances, to prevent the reoccurrence of current vulnerabilities.
Does Government Debt Affect Bank Credit?
Authors: De Bonis Riccardo , Stacchini Massimiliano
Published: December 2013

This paper analyses 43 countries from 1970 to 2010 to investigate the effect that public debt has on bank loans. The study is motivated by the need to understand the consequences of high public debt, a condition many countries are already experiencing or will experience in the next few years. Looking at the 40‐year period, we find that the ratio of government debt to GDP has a negative association with the subsequent growth of bank credit. Our results hold using different econometric methods and controlling for variables such as the lagged value of bank loans, the occurrence of banking crises, per capita GDP, the inflation rate, trade openness, international investment position, stock market capitalization and countries' legal origin.
Vulnerability, Crises and Debt Maturity: Do IMF Interventions Increase Reliance on Short‐Term Debt?
Authors: Saravia Diego
Published: December 2013

It has been widely argued that excessive short‐term debt has been a major cause of recent financial crises. I find evidence that IMF lending programmes on average serve to reduce the maturity of sovereign bond issues, which is an undesirable effect. However, the impact of IMF interventions varies, importantly, across countries which differ according to measures of their fundamental macroeconomic soundness: countries with weak fundamentals tend to lengthen their debt maturities following on the heels of an IMF lending programme. This suggests that the IMF should focus particularly on ensuring that its interventions do not increase incentives for short‐term debt issuance in countries not at risk of imminent crisis, but which might put themselves at risk through imprudent borrowing practices.
In Situ Synchrotron X‐Ray Diffraction Study of the Rhombohedral‐to‐HT‐Cubic Phase Transformation in Ln6WO12 (Ln = Y, Ho, Er, Yb)
Authors: Apostolov Zlatomir D. , Sarin Pankaj , Hughes Robert W. , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: December 2013

The high‐temperature rhombohedral‐to‐fcc phase transformation in the Ln6WO12 (Ln = Y, Ho, Er, Yb) system was investigated by thermal analysis and in situ X‐ray diffraction. The process was characterized by thermodynamic, kinetic, and mechanistic criteria, and the role of the rare‐earth cation on the transformation properties trends was evaluated. An atomistic perspective on the accompanying structural change is presented, as well as a characterization of the associated shape and volume changes. A twofold comparison is performed with the similar low‐temperature fcc‐to‐rhombohedral transformation in the same system. One aspect contrasts the structural changes related to each process, manifested by the behavior of the lattice parameters and transformation characteristics. The second concerns the sequence of transformations according to composition and suggests the order of thermal stability of Ln polyhedra in each phase.
The Early Age Hydration Reactions of a Hybrid Cement Containing a Very High Content of Coal Bottom Ash
Authors: Donatello Shane , Maltseva Olga , Fernandez‐Jimenez Ana , Palomo Angel
Published: December 2013

A study examining the complex hydration chemistry of a hybrid alkaline cement containing a high content of coal bottom ash (BA) (>70%) and a low content of portland cement clinker in the presence of an alkaline activator is presented. The use of a water reducing additive was found to significantly delay the overall hydration process, allowing an opportunity to more clearly distinguish the hydration reactions that take place. The results presented showed that both the cement clinker phases and the ash glassy phases are highly reactive for the first 3 d of hydration. In situ formed reaction products portlandite and gypsum were shown to be metastable and had disappeared within 3 d of hydration. Ettringite stability was limited in the hybrid system but unlike gypsum and portlandite, remained detectable for the first 3 d of hydration at least. SEM‐EDX and subtracted Fourier transform infrared evidence suggest the development of three different gel bond environments, tentatively attributed to C–(A)–S–H, C–A–S–H, and (N,C)–A–S–H type gels.
Mechanical Properties of a Lithium Disilicate Strengthened Lithium Aluminosilicate Glass‐Ceramic
Authors: Laczka Maria , Laczka Karolina , Cholewa‐Kowalska Katarzyna , Kounga Alain B. , Appert Christoph
Published: December 2013

A glass composition in the Li2O–Al2O3–SiO2 (LAS)‐ternary phase diagram is presented, which enables the crystallization of Li2Si2O5 as well as LiAlSi2O6 upon a well‐defined heat treatment. Li2Si2O5 is the minor crystalline phase in the glass‐ceramic and generates through the bulk strengthening of the LAS glass‐ceramic. A flexural strength as higher as 400 MPa is measured in the proposed glass‐ceramic formulation, thus outperforming conventional LAS‐glass‐ceramics. A combination of the presence of those two crystalline phases of very different mechanical properties and coefficient of thermal expansion as well as the microstructure are believed to contribute largely to the enhancement of the measured properties.