bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Erythema multiforme photoinduced by paroxetine and herpes simplex virus
Authors: Rodríguez‐Pazos Laura , Gómez‐Bernal Silvia , Montero Iria , Rodríguez‐Granados MaTeresa , Toribio Jaime
Published: July 2011

Erythema multiforme (EM) is a self‐limited skin disease, characterized by the abrupt onset of symmetric red papules that may evolve into target lesions often precipitated by an infection. Photosensitive erythema multiforme (PEM) is a rare disorder characterized by the distribution of the lesions on sun‐exposed areas. It has been described at the sites of sunburn, following episodes of polymorphic light eruption or herpes labialis and in association with drugs. To our knowledge, PEM photoinduced by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors has not been reported. We describe a patient who had two consecutive episodes of PEM related to two different triggers: paroxetine and HSV infection. In the first episode, systemic photosensitivity was confirmed with the photobiological study. UVB‐MED was decreased when the patient was taking paroxetine and did not change after its substitution for duloxetine. However, it became normal after the withdrawal of both drugs, suggesting a cross‐reactivity reaction. The UVB photopatch test with paroxetine was positive. The second episode occurred after a herpes labialis relapse. At that time, UVB‐MED was normal.
Experimental testing of skin reactions to insulin detemir in diabetes patients naïve to insulin detemir
Authors: O'goshi Kenichiro , Serup Jørgen , Blaaholm Bente , Thomsen Henrik Klem , Rossing Peter , Tarnow Lise
Published: July 2011

Background/aims: Sporadic reports on immediate and delayed cutaneous reactions to insulin detemir, a modern insulin analogue, have raised unsupported claims of allergy of type I, III and IV. The purpose of this experimental study using a provocative design was to elucidate the potential mechanisms behind such skin reactions.

Material and methods: A total of 40 patients with type 1 diabetes or insulin‐requiring type 2 diabetes, all naïve to insulin detemir, were injected on the thigh with 0.l mL of insulin detemir (Levemir®) administered with an 8 mm needle at three different depths, i.e. intradermal, subdermal and subcutaneously. Saline was injected as control. Any cutaneous reactions were assessed after 10 and 30 min, after 24 and 48 h and after 7 days. Histopathology of positive reactions on day 7 was obtained. The study was randomized, controlled, double‐blinded, and conducted in accordance with ICH‐GCP guidelines. Blood flow was recorded with the Periflux PF5010, and skin colour (a*) with the DSMII colorimeter.

Results: Clinical reading, flowmetry and colorimetry consistently showed delayed reactions after intradermal insulin injection (35 of 40 patients reacted with mainly weak reactions, P<0.05), peaking after 48 h, contrasting no special reaction immediately after injection, except for reactions attributed to needle trauma. A total of 22 patients reacted on subdermal injection and 21 on subcutaneous injection. Histopathology on day 7 from 22 reactions in 15 patients showed a consistent pattern of inflammation with eosinophilia as typically observed in adverse skin reactions to a variety of medicines. Reactions were interpreted as non‐specific biologic responses to the insulin different from direct toxic actions and classical allergic reaction patterns. Only one person registered itch/discomfort. A prick test vs. histamine reference excluded insulin detemir to be a pharmacological histamine releaser. Thus, provocative testing with insulin detemir produced delayed skin reaction but no immediate reaction. Measurement of circulating insulin detemir‐specific antibodies by RIA before and after 3 months showed no increase.

Conclusion: Non‐allergic delayed skin reactions from intradermal and, to a minor degree, subdermal and subcutaneous injections of insulin detemir were frequent in this experimental study and showed a consistent histology pattern of inflammation with eosinophilia. Immediate reactions were not produced. The reactions are unlikely to be specific for insulin detemir, and other insulins should be studied in a similar provocative design.
ForestPlots.net: a web application and research tool to manage and analyse tropical forest plot data
Authors: Lopez‐Gonzalez Gabriela , Lewis Simon L. , Burkitt Mark , Phillips Oliver L.
Published: July 2011

Tropical forests are biologically diverse ecosystems that play important roles in the carbon cycle and maintenance of global biodiversity. Understanding how tropical forests respond to environmental changes is important, as changes in carbon storage can modulate the rate and magnitude of climate change. Applying an ecoinformatics approach for managing long‐term forest inventory plot data, where individual trees are tracked over time, facilitates regional and cross‐continental forest research to evaluate changes in taxonomic composition, growth, recruitment and mortality rates, and carbon and biomass stocks. We developed ForestPlots.net as a secure, online inventory data repository and to facilitate data management of long‐term tropical forest plots to promote scientific collaborations among independent researchers. The key novel features of the database are: (a) a design that efficiently deals with time‐series data; (b) data management tools to assess potential errors; and (c) a query library to generate outputs (e.g. biomass and carbon stock changes over time).
Nocturnal masseter electromyographic activity of complete denture wearers
Authors: Nitschke Ina , Meier Leonardo , Farella Mauro , Palla Sandro , Gallo Luigi M.
Published: July 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00528.x

Nocturnal masseter electromyographic activity of complete denture wearers

Objective:  Collection of normative data on activity patterns of the masseter during sleep in elderly denture wearers by portable electromyography (EMG) recorders.

Background:  Complete denture wearers might suffer from orofacial pain caused by myoarthropathies of the masticatory system. Indeed, denture instability may precipitate parafunctional habits and consequently muscle soreness and/or temporomandibular pain.

Materials and methods:  We collected normative masseter EMG data during sleep in 15 complete denture wearers (five women, 10 men, 56–88 years) by portable recorders in their natural environment. Activity periods (AP) were signal portions including subthreshold intervals ≤5 s. Signal amplitude was expressed in per cent of maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC). For this reason, maximum bite force was assessed. Twenty age‐matched dentate controls were also recorded for the maximum bite force.

Results:  We found 157.2 ± 86.5 AP per night, i.e. 24.0 ± 12.2 AP/h. Mean amplitude was 15.1 ± 4.3%MVC. AP lasted 6.8 ± 4.1 s, and their time integral was 126.3 ± 112.5%MVC•s. Maximum bite force was 116.8 ± 69.6 N in the edentulous, significantly lower than in controls (344.8 ± 150.4 N).

Conclusions:  Healthy complete denture wearers showed intermittent periods of nocturnal masseter activity of very low intensity and short duration.
The effect of attachment type and implant number on satisfaction and quality of life of mandibular implant‐retained overdenture wearers
Authors: Mumcu Emre , Bilhan Hakan , Geckili Onur
Published: July 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00531.x

The effect of attachment type and implant number on satisfaction and quality of life of mandibular implant‐retained overdenture wearers

Objective:  The aim of this study was to compare the quality of life and patient satisfaction outcomes of two attachment systems in mandibular overdentures with different numbers of supporting implants.

Materials and methods:  Sixty‐two edentulous patients with either splinted or single attachments in mandibular implant overdentures with different numbers of supporting interforaminal implants were investigated for patient satisfaction and quality of life in this retrospective study. Comparisons between groups were perceived by the Mann–Whitney U test. Relations among the parameters were investigated by Spearman’s rho correlation analysis. The results were evaluated statistically at a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results:  No statistically significant association is found between visual analogue scales scores and attachment type as well as implant number (p > 0.05), whereas Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)‐14 total scores for patients with 4‐implant‐supported bars were significantly lower than all the other attachment types (p < 0.05). Additionally, a negative (rate = 32.2%), statistically significant association between period of edentulism and total OHIP‐14 scores was detected (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  A mandibular implant‐retained overdenture supported with four implants and bar attachments shows the highest ‘quality of life’ score and patient satisfaction is not influenced by the number of implants or attachment type.
Staying Safe at Home. Home environmental audit recommendations and uptake in an older population at high risk of falling
Authors: Currin Michelle L , Comans Tracy A , Heathcote Kathy , Haines Terry P
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To identify the level of uptake of occupational therapists' home environmental audit recommendations by older community dwellers and the factors that contribute to adherence.

Methods:  Design and setting: Cohort nested within an RCT that compared two models of care for fall prevention located in Brisbane, Australia. Participants: Community‐dwelling older people >60 at risk of falls (n = 80). Interventions: An environmental audit and recommendations by an occupational therapist.

Results:  Of the recommendations made, 55% were completed by 6 months. Increasing number of comorbidities was a significant predictor of adherence with recommendations. Recommendations requiring external providers were more likely to be completed than those relying on the client or family member.

Conclusion:  Occupational therapists need to consider a wide range of intrinsic and extrinsic factors, which may contribute to adherence with home modifications.
Binding affinities and interactions among different heat shock element types and heat shock factors in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Mittal Dheeraj , Enoki Yasuaki , Lavania Dhruv , Singh Amanjot , Sakurai Hiroshi , Grover Anil
Published: July 2011

Binding of heat shock factors (Hsfs) to heat shock elements (HSEs) leads to transcriptional regulation of heat shock genes. Genome‐wide, 953 rice genes contain perfect‐type, 695 genes gap‐type and 1584 genes step‐type HSE sequences in their 1‐kb promoter region. The rice genome contains 13 class A, eight class B and four class C Hsfs (OsHsfs) and has OsHsf26 (which is of variant type) genes. Chemical cross‐linking analysis of in vitro synthesized OsHsf polypeptides showed formation of homotrimers of OsHsfA2c, OsHsfA9 and OsHsfB4b proteins. Binding analysis of polypeptides with oligonucleotide probes containing perfect‐, gap‐, and step‐type HSE sequences showed that OsHsfA2c, OsHsfA9 and OsHsfB4b differentially recognize various model HSEs as a function of varying reaction temperatures. The homomeric form of OsHsfA2c and OsHsfB4b proteins was further noted by the bimolecular fluorescence complementation approach in onion epidermal cells. In yeast two‐hybrid assays, OsHsfB4b showed homomeric interaction as well as distinct heteromeric interactions with OsHsfA2a, OsHsfA7, OsHsfB4c and OsHsf26. Transactivation activity was noted in OsHsfA2c, OsHsfA2d, OsHsfA9, OsHsfC1a and OsHsfC1b in yeast cells. These differential patterns pertaining to binding with HSEs and protein–protein interactions may have a bearing on the cellular functioning of OsHsfs under a range of different physiological and environmental conditions.

Structured digital abstract

 HSFA2C binds to HSFA2C by cross‐linking study (View interaction)

 HSFA2Cphysically interacts with HSFA2C by bimolecular fluorescence complementation(View interaction)

 HSFB4B physically interacts with HSFB4B by bimolecular fluorescence complementation(View interaction)

 HSFA2A physically interacts with HSFB4B by two hybrid (View interaction)

 HSFB4B binds to HSFB4B by cross‐linking study (View interaction)

 HSFB4B physically interacts with HSF26 by two hybrid (View interaction)

 HSFA9 binds to HSFA9 by cross‐linking study (View interaction)

 HSFA7 physically interacts with HSFB4B by two hybrid (View interaction)

 HSFB4B physically interacts with HSFB4C by two hybrid (View interaction)

 HSFB4B physically interacts with HSFB4B by two hybrid (View interaction)
Small Artery Remodelling in Hypertension
Authors: Mulvany Michael J.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Increased blood pressure (essential hypertension) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, and the condition is treated primarily with a view to reducing this parameter. However, in the early stages, the main pathological changes are increased peripheral resistance and altered cardiovascular structure. The aim of this MiniReview was to trace the endeavours over the past several decades to translate these findings into answering the question whether normalization of resistance vessel structure should be a target for therapy. This MiniReview describes first the altered structure of the resistance vasculature in essential hypertension, where the vessels show increased media/lumen ratio because of inward eutrophic remodelling. Secondly, evidence is presented that altered small artery structure appears to have prognostic consequences. Then, the cellular mechanisms that may be involved are discussed, where there is evidence that vasoconstriction in itself can cause inward remodelling and that this can be prevented by vasodilators. This leads to a discussion of the degree to which it may be possible to rectify the abnormal structure, where it appears that this may be achieved using a therapy that causes vasodilatation in the patient concerned. Finally, the consequences of these findings are considered as regards clues for strategies that may be able to improve the outcome of antihypertensive therapy. The MiniReview concludes that there is reasonably strong evidence that improvement in abnormal resistance vessel structure requires a treatment that reduces peripheral resistance in the individual patient.
Crystal Structures of Candida albicans Dihydrofolate Reductase Bound to Propargyl‐Linked Antifolates Reveal the Flexibility of Active Site Loop Residues Critical for Ligand Potency and Selectivity
Authors: Paulsen Janet L. , Bendel Stephen D. , Anderson Amy C.
Published: July 2011

Candida albicans and Candida glabrata cause fungal bloodstream infections that are associated with significant mortality. As part of an effort to develop potent and selective antifolates that target dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) from Candida species, we report three ternary crystal structures of C. albicans DHFR (CaDHFR) bound to novel propargyl‐linked analogs. Consistent with earlier modeling results, these structures show that hydrophobic pockets in the binding site may be exploited to increase ligand potency. The crystal structures also confirm that loop residues Thr 58‐ Phe 66, which flank the active site and influence ligand potency and selectivity, adopt multiple conformations. To aid the development of a dual Candida spp. inhibitor, three new crystal structures of C. glabrata DHFR (CgDHFR) bound to similar ligands as those bound in the ternary structures of CaDHFR are also reported here. Loop residues 58–66 in CgDHFR and human DHFR are 1 and 3 Å closer to the folate binding site, respectively, than loop residues in CaDHFR, suggesting that a properly size ligand could be a potent and selective dual inhibitor of CaDHFR and CgDHFR.
Identification of Agents that Induce Apoptosis of Multicellular Tumour Spheroids: Enrichment for Mitotic Inhibitors with Hydrophobic Properties
Authors: Fayad Walid , Rickardson Linda , Haglund Caroline , Olofsson Maria Hägg , D’Arcy Padraig , Larsson Rolf , Linder Stig , Fryknäs Mårten
Published: July 2011

Cell‐based anticancer drug screening generally utilizes rapidly proliferating tumour cells grown as monolayer cultures. Hit compounds from such screens are not necessarily effective on hypoxic and slowly proliferating cells in 3‐D tumour tissue. The aim of this study was to examine the potential usefulness of 3‐D cultured tumour cells for anticancer drug screening. We used colon carcinoma multicellular spheroids containing hypoxic and quiescent cells in core areas for this purpose. Three libraries (∼11 000 compounds) were screened using antiproliferative activity and/or apoptosis as end‐points. Screening of monolayer and spheroid cultures was found to identify different sets of hit compounds. Spheroid screening enriched for hydrophobic compounds: median XLogP values of 4.3 and 4.4 were observed for the hits in two independent screening campaigns. Mechanistic analysis revealed that the majority of spheroid screening hits were microtubuli inhibitors. One of these inhibitors was examined in detail and found to be effective against non‐dividing cells in the hypoxic centres of spheroids. Spheroid screening represents a conceptually new strategy for anticancer drug discovery. Our findings have implications for drug library design and hit selection in projects aimed to develop drugs for the treatment of solid tumours.
Revisiting Goffman’s postulates on participant statuses in verbal interaction
Authors: Dynel Marta
Published: July 2011

Goffman’s work on participation marks a watershed in linguistic studies on speaker and hearer roles in interaction, both in everyday conversations and in media discourse. Goffman is thus widely credited for having expanded the dyadic (speaker – hearer) model of communication. Albeit not elaborated in detail, his classification of speaker roles, as well as listeners, the latter divided into ratified hearers (addressed and unaddressed recipients) and unratified hearers (bystanders, overhearers and eavesdroppers), is the departure point for various classifications of participants propounded by contemporary researchers. This article proposes an exegesis of Goffman’s work on participation, typified by talk, a strand which reverberates in his essays devoted to distinct topics, with special attention paid to non‐speaking participant statuses. Only a bird’s‐eye‐view approach to Goffman’s writings guarantees a full picture of his conceptualisation of multi‐party verbal encounters.
Concentration of Soy Protein Isolate Affects Starch‐Based Confections’ Texture, Sensory, and Storage Properties
Authors: Siegwein Alexander M. , Vodovotz Yael , Fisher Erica L.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  The effects of increasing soy protein isolate concentration on the physico‐chemical properties of starch‐based grape confectionery gels were investigated using thermal, textural, and sensory analyses. Soy protein isolate decreased hardness, cohesiveness, and gumminess, demonstrating potential as a texture modifier. Increasing soy protein concentration progressively decreased the elastic properties of the starch network demonstrated by a lower G’‐G” crossover frequency. High levels of soy protein also created a more homogeneous water population, one which was lost at lower temperatures compared to standard confections. An improvement in taste and texture acceptability of the confections upon addition of soy protein isolate was found by sensory analysis. Finally, physico‐chemical properties were compared up to 20 d of storage at ambient temperature. Soy‐containing confections demonstrated lower gumminess and cohesiveness during the entire storage period but a significant increase in hardness after 20 d of storage.

Practical Application:  Soy protein isolate imparted soft texture to starch‐based confections on a concentration‐dependent basis. Increasing soy protein isolate concentration decreased elastic properties of the starch network in starch confections and significantly improved flavor and texture. Gumminess and cohesiveness of soy protein isolate confection was lower during 20 d of storage.
Digestibility, Fermentability, and Energy Value of Highly Cross‐Linked Phosphate Tapioca Starch in Men
Authors: Tachibe M. , Ohga Hiroshi , Nishibata T. , Ebihara K.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to determine glycemic and breath hydrogen responses in 10 healthy men in response to highly cross‐linked starch phosphate (HXLS), made of tapioca starch (TS). Plasma glucose concentration was analyzed at baseline and at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 min postprandially. In addition, breath hydrogen excretion was measured at baseline and at hourly intervals, over 10 h, after test substance challenge. When compared with unmodified TS easily digested, the area under the curve of plasma glucose of HXLS was 64% smaller, and was almost the same as that of microcrystalline cellulose. When compared with fructo‐oligosaccharide rapidly fermented by the microbial bacteria, the area under the excretion curve of breath hydrogen gas of HXLS was 93% smaller, and was almost the same as that of water only. These results show that HXLS is harder to digest and ferment than unmodified TS in men.
Stability of Anthocyanins in Frozen and Freeze‐Dried Raspberries during Long‐Term Storage: In Relation to Glass Transition
Authors: Syamaladevi Roopesh M. , Sablani Shyam S. , Tang Juming , Powers Joseph , Swanson Barry G.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Anthocyanins, natural plant pigments in the flavonoid group, are responsible for the red color and some of the nutraceutical benefits of raspberries. This study explores anthocyanin degradation in frozen and freeze‐dried raspberries during storage in relation to glass transition temperatures. Frozen raspberries were stored at −80, −35, and −20 °C, while freeze‐dried raspberries were stored at selected water activity (aw) values ranging from 0.05 to 0.75 at room temperature (23 °C) for more than a year. The characteristic glass transition temperatures (T′g) of raspberries with high water content and glass transition temperature (Tg) of raspberries with small water content were determined using a differential scanning calorimeter. The pH differential method was used to determine the quantity of anthocyanins in frozen and freeze‐dried raspberries at selected time intervals. The total anthocyanins in raspberries fluctuated during 378 d of storage at −20 and −35, and −80 °C. Anthocyanin degradation in freeze‐dried raspberries ranged from 27% to 32% and 78% to 89% at aw values of 0.05 to 0.07 and 0.11 to 0.43, respectively, after 1 y. Anthocyanins were not detectable in freeze‐dried raspberries stored at aw values of 0.53 to 0.75 after 270 d. First order and Weibull equations were used to fit the anthocyanin degradation in freeze‐dried raspberries. The 1st‐order rate constant (k) of anthocyanin degradation ranged from 0.003 to 0.023 days−1 at the selected water activities. Significant anthocyanin degradation occurred in both the glassy and rubbery states of freeze‐dried raspberries during long‐term storage. However, the rate of anthocyanin degradation in freeze‐dried raspberries stored in the glassy state was significantly smaller than the rate of anthocyanin degradation in the rubbery state.
Toward the Antioxidant and Chemical Characterization of Mycorrhizal Mushrooms from Northeast Portugal
Authors: Reis Filipa S. , Heleno Sandrina A. , Barros Lillian , Sousa Maria João , Martins Anabela , Santos‐Buelga Celestino , Ferreira Isabel C.F.R.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Mushrooms are widely appreciated all over the world for their nutritional properties and pharmacological value as sources of important bioactive compounds. Mycorrhizal macrofungi associate with plant roots constituting a symbiotic relationship. This symbiosis could influence the production of secondary metabolites, including bioactive compounds. We focused on the evaluation of antioxidant potential and chemical composition of mycorrhizal mushrooms species from Northeast Portugal: Amanita caesarea, Amanita muscaria, Amanita pantherina, Chroogomphus fulmineus, Cortinarius anomalus, Cortinarius collinitus, Cortinarius violaceus, Lactarius quietus, Lactarius volemus, Russula sardonia, Suillus luteus, and Tricholoma ustale. A similar profile of metabolites was observed in the studied species with the order sugars > fat > ascorbic acid > phenolic compounds > tocopherols. Nevertheless, the samples revealed different compositions: prevalence of sugars in L. volemus, fat and ascorbic acid in A. muscaria, phenolic compounds in C. anomalus and tocopherols, and antioxidant activity in S. luteus.

Practical Application:  Chemical characterization of 12 mycorrhizal mushrooms was achieved. They are sources of nutraceuticals, such as sugars and fatty acids, and contain bioactive compounds, such as vitamins and phenolic acids. Edible species can be incorporated in diets as sources of antioxidants, while nonedible species can be explored as sources of bioactive metabolites.
Antifungal Activity of 2 Lactic Acid Bacteria of the Weissella Genus Isolated from Food
Authors: Ndagano Dora , Lamoureux Thibaut , Dortu Carine , Vandermoten Sophie , Thonart Philippe
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  In the present study, a total of 116 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains isolated from Mill flour and fermented cassava were screened for their antifungal activity. Three strains among 116 were selected for their strongest inhibitory activity against food molds. These 3 strains were Lactobacillus plantarum VE56, Weissella cibaria FMF4B16, and W. paramesenteroides LC11. The compounds responsible for the antifungal activity were investigated. The strains displayed an inhibitory activity against targeted molds at acidic pH. However, the influence of organic acids was rejected according to the calculated minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). Antifungal compounds were investigated in the cell‐free supernatants and phenyllactic acid (PLA) was detected in different amounts with a maximal concentration for Lb. plantarum VE56 (0.56 mM). Hydroxy fatty acid, such as 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methylpentanoic acid, was also produced and involved in the inhibitory activity of Lb. plantarum VE56 and W. paramesenteroides LC11. Antifungal LAB are known to produce PLA and 3‐hydroxy fatty acids and other organic acids with antifungal activity. This short communication focuses on antifungal activity from Weissella genus. The antifungal activity was attributed to antifungal compounds identified such as PLA, 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methylpentanoic acid, and other organic acids. Nevertheless, the concentration produced in the cell‐free supernatant was too low to compare to their MIC, suggesting that the inhibitory activity was caused by a synergy of these different compounds.

Practical Application:  Antifungal LAB are interesting to prevent food spoilage in fermented food and prolong their shelf life. In this way, chemical preservatives could be avoided and replaced by natural preservatives.
Anthocyanins Remain Stable during Commercial Blackcurrant Juice Processing
Authors: Woodward Gary M. , McCarthy Danielle , Pham‐Thanh Danh , Kay Colin D.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  It remains important to establish the stability of anthocyanins throughout commercial processing in order to maintain the bioactivity of the processed food/s. The present study aimed to assess the recovery and formation of anthocyanins and their free phenolic acid degradation products during the commercial processing of blackcurrant juice concentrate. A bench‐scale processing model was also established to allow for alteration of predefined parameters to identify where commercial processes could be modified to influence anthocyanin yield. No significant loss in anthocyanins was observed throughout the commercial processing of blackcurrants, from whole berry through milling, to pectin hydrolysis and sodium bisulphite addition (P ≥ 0.7). No significant loss in anthocyanins was observed following the subsequent processing of pressed juice, through pasteurization, decantation, filtration, and concentration (P ≥ 0.9). Similarly, the bench‐scale model showed no significant losses in anthocyanin content except during pasteurization (22%± 0.7%, P < 0.001). In the full‐factorial Design of Experiment model analysis, only sodium bisulphite concentration had an impact on anthocyanin recovery, which resulted in an increase (23% to 27%; P < 0.001) in final anthocyanin concentration. No phenolic degradation products (free protocatechuic acid or gallic acid derived from cyanidin and delphinin species, respectively) were identified in any processed sample when compared to authentic analytical standards, analyzed by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography DAD.

Practical Application:  This article provides crucial data directly applicable to commercial juice processing, such as improving anthocyanin yield and practical considerations for anthocyanin stability and degradation. This aspect is particularly pertinent considering the current commercial interest in anthocyanin‐derived phenolic acids and their health‐related benefits. Further research and development targets in the area of commercial juice product development are identified.
Effect of Input Data Variability on Estimations of the Equivalent Constant Temperature Time for Microbial Inactivation by HTST and Retort Thermal Processing
Authors: Salgado Diana , Torres J. Antonio , Welti‐Chanes Jorge , Velazquez Gonzalo
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Consumer demand for food safety and quality improvements, combined with new regulations, requires determining the processor's confidence level that processes lowering safety risks while retaining quality will meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. Monte Carlo calculation procedures incorporate input data variability to obtain the statistical distribution of the output of prediction models. This advantage was used to analyze the survival risk of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (M. paratuberculosis) and Clostridium botulinum spores in high‐temperature short‐time (HTST) milk and canned mushrooms, respectively. The results showed an estimated 68.4% probability that the 15 sec HTST process would not achieve at least 5 decimal reductions in M. paratuberculosis counts. Although estimates of the raw milk load of this pathogen are not available to estimate the probability of finding it in pasteurized milk, the wide range of the estimated decimal reductions, reflecting the variability of the experimental data available, should be a concern to dairy processors. Knowledge of the C. botulinum initial load and decimal thermal time variability was used to estimate an 8.5 min thermal process time at 110 °C for canned mushrooms reducing the risk to 10−9 spores/container with a 95% confidence. This value was substantially higher than the one estimated using average values (6.0 min) with an unacceptable 68.6% probability of missing the desired processing objective. Finally, the benefit of reducing the variability in initial load and decimal thermal time was confirmed, achieving a 26.3% reduction in processing time when standard deviation values were lowered by 90%.

Practical Application:  In spite of novel technologies, commercialized or under development, thermal processing continues to be the most reliable and cost‐effective alternative to deliver safe foods. However, the severity of the process should be assessed to avoid under‐ and over‐processing and determine opportunities for improvement. This should include a systematic approach to consider variability in the parameters for the models used by food process engineers when designing a thermal process. The Monte Carlo procedure here presented is a tool to facilitate this task for the determination of process time at a constant lethal temperature.
Dental status of patients with mental disorders in a Nigerian teaching hospital: a preliminary survey
Authors: Adeniyi Abiola A. , Ola Bolanle A. , Edeh Christopher E. , Ogunbanjo B. Ogunbiyi , Adewuya Abiodun O.
Published: July 2011

Although individuals with mental disorders are reported to experience dental problems similar to the general population, evidence suggests they actually have higher risks of dental disease and increased oral health needs. This study describes the dental status of 105 psychiatric outpatients in a Nigerian hospital. Information was obtained from subject interviews, medical records, and an oral examination to determine their dental caries and periodontal disease status.

The oral hygiene status of the study participants was poor; the mean oral hygiene index score was 2.7 ± 1.20. The decayed, missing, and filled teeth ranged from 0 to 9 with a mean of 2.3 ± 2.28. Only five subjects (4.9%) had restorations and the mean number of filled teeth was .14 ± .67. The subjects’ age was significantly related to the mean oral hygiene score (p= .005), the mean gingival score (p= .006), and caries occurrence (p= .047). The oral health status of psychiatric patients in Nigeria is poor, indicating the need to provide oral health education and increase access to dental care for these patients.
Tear meniscus measurement in nasolacrimal duct obstruction patients with Fourier‐domain optical coherence tomography: novel three‐point capture method
Authors: Park Dae Il , Lew Helen , Lee Sang Yeul
Published: July 2011

Purpose:  Fourier‐domain optical coherence tomography (FD ODT) for the evaluation of marginal tear film has not been performed in patients with watery eye or in a controlled study. We used FD OCT to evaluate the height of the lower lid tear film at three points in normal adults and compared it with two watery eye groups.

Methods:  We prospectively evaluated with FD OCT 25 normal subjects and 44 patients with a watery eye. Twenty‐three patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) and 21 patients with functional nasolacrimal duct obstruction (FNLDO) were enrolled. Three images were obtained by three vertical FD OCT scans centred on the lower eyelid and inferior cornea, the medial limbus and the lateral limbus. The tear meniscus height (TMH), tear meniscus depth (TMD) and tear meniscus area (TMA) were measured with computer calipers and compared at three points between the two groups.

Results:  Watery eyes have significantly greater median TMHs at three points (medial: 584 μm, central: 592 μm, lateral: 470 μm) than controls (274, 291, 205 μm, p < 0.001). Medial and central TMHs were higher than lateral TMH in controls and watery eyes. TMD and TMA also increased significantly in watery eyes (p < 0.001). There was a significant increase in central TMH compared to medial TMH in FNLDOs than in PANDOs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Fourier‐domain OCT is a valuable clinical tool in the evaluation of TMH in normal and watery eyes. TMH at three points can be a useful clinical parameter that investigates changes of lower tear meniscus pattern in both PANDO and FNLDO groups.
Role of fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose positron emission tomography for the detection of gastrointestinal tract lesions in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Isobe Kazutoshi , Hata Yoshinobu , Sakaguchi Shinji , Sato Keita , Sano Go , Sugino Keishi , Sakamoto Susumu , Takai Yujiro , Shibuya Kazutoshi , Takagi Keigo , Homma Sakae
Published: July 2011

Background:  The purpose of this study was to clarify the clinical characteristics of lung cancer patients with abnormal accumulation of fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose (FDG) in the gastrointestinal tract imaged by positron emission tomography (PET).

Methods:  Of 1071 consecutive patients with primary lung cancer who underwent PET from October 2005 through to March 2010, 25 patients (2.3%) showed localized abnormal FDG accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract. We retrospectively compared the location of abnormal accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract, the maximum standardized uptake value in 1 hour, and final clinical diagnosis.

Results:  Of the 25 cases, 12 (48%) were true PET‐positive cases (esophageal cancer in one case, gastric cancer in one, colorectal cancer in seven, gastrointestinal stromal tumor in one, and lung cancer metastasis to the stomach and small intestine in one patient each). The 13 cases with false PET‐positives were gastric polyp in one, gastritis in four, colon polyp in two, diverticulitis in one, and normal physiological accumulation in five. There was also a significant difference between malignancy and benign intestinal accumulation excluding the stomach (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:  PET was useful for screening the gastrointestinal tract (except the stomach) for malignancy in lung cancer patients.
Antibody Prevalence of Low‐Pathogenicity Avian Influenza and Evaluation of Management Practices in Minnesota Backyard Poultry Flocks
Authors: Yendell S. J. , Rubinoff I. , Lauer D. C. , Bender J. B. , Scheftel J. M.
Published: July 2011

Low‐pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) viruses have caused illness in poultry and humans with poultry contact. To determine whether there is evidence of exposure to avian influenza viruses (AIV) among backyard poultry in Minnesota and their human caretakers, 150 flocks of backyard birds were sampled for antibodies to AIV from August 2007 through December 2008. One hundred flocks were tested through routine slaughter surveillance by the Minnesota Board of Animal Health and an additional 50 flocks were contacted and sampled by study investigators. Blood was collected from 10 to 13 birds from each flock and a survey of biosecurity and management practices was administered to the flock owner. Blood samples were tested by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) for influenza A antibodies. Tested flocks had a median flock size of 100 birds (range: 12–800 birds), and were most commonly owned for meat for personal use (81% of respondents), fun or hobby (58%) and eggs for personal use (56%). Although 7% of flock owners reported that their birds had shown respiratory signs in the previous 3 months, only 1 of 150 flocks tested positive for influenza by AGID. Antibodies to LPAI H6N1 were detected in the positive flock. The owner of the positive flock did not have antibodies to H6 or other common AIV. Based on the findings of this study, the risk of transmission of LPAI viruses from backyard poultry to owners in Minnesota appears to be low under current conditions and management practices.
A Crisis of Confidence Revisited: Iran‐West Tensions and Mutual Demonization
Authors: Behravesh Maysam
Published: July 2011

This article is a largely constructivist revisit to the crisis of confidence between Iran and the West. It strives to investigate the chief historical, cultural, ideological, and identity‐related, as well as geostrategic factors, involved in postrevolutionary Iran‐West relations, and how they have caused an almost solidified sense of fear, suspicion, and mistrust between the two. The contemporary major areas of conflict the study delineates are (a) the human rights issue, (b) Iran's nuclear program, (c) Iranian‐Israeli hostility, and (d) the U.S.‐led wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The article concludes that the restoration of mutual confidence requires a structural overhaul of both sides' ideological attitudes and political practices toward each other.
Region and Identity: The Many Faces of Southeast Asia
Authors: Roberts Christopher
Published: July 2011

This article examines the origins of Southeast Asia as a region, including the extent to which regularized interstate relations existed throughout the region prior to World War II. In addition, the article examines the origins of Southeast Asia's recognition as a region together with notions of cultural homogeneity and identity. At one level, these interdependent variables are relevant to the analysis because much of the scholarly literature has utilized some combination of the three—together with notions of geographical propinquity, interdependence, and a capacity to refract the power of the international system—as a basis to substantiate the claim that a region exists, whether that be Southeast Asia or elsewhere. However, notions of culture and identity are also important because they represent a natural outcome of long‐term interaction and interdependence. Consequently, the article finds that the origin of Southeast Asia, as a distinct region, most significantly stemmed from the strategic dynamics of the Second World War. Moreover, the contemporary nature of Southeast Asia's construction as a region has been a consequence of the region's cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity; an associated absence of a regional identity; and a lack of regionwide and regularized interstate relations until independence from colonialism.
Short‐term plasticity impacts information transfer at glutamate synapses onto parvocellular neuroendocrine cells in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus
Authors: Marty Vincent , Kuzmiski J. Brent , Baimoukhametova Dinara V. , Bains Jaideep S.
Published: July 2011

Non‐technical summary  The response to stress is orchestrated by parvocellular neuroendocrine cells in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. These cells integrate synaptic information from a number of brain regions and release hormone, yet little is known about the basic rules of synaptic communication at glutamate synapses that provide the dominant excitatory input to these cells. Here we describe experiments aimed at providing insights into how these synapses behave when recruited at different activation frequencies and what impact this has on cell firing.
Subcortical input heterogeneity in the mouse inferior colliculus
Authors: Geis H.‐Rüdiger A. P. , van der Heijden Marcel , Borst J. Gerard G.
Published: July 2011

Non‐technical summary  Sensory information appears to be represented in a well‐organized manner in the central nervous system, but it is unclear whether this still holds true at the level of individual neurons. Here we found that the responses to sound of two neurons in the auditory midbrain that were lying right next to each other were not more similar than neurons that were far apart. Our results suggest a high local specialization of neuronal responses to sound stimulation in the dorsal cortex of the mouse inferior colliculus.
Allodynia mediated by C‐tactile afferents in human hairy skin
Authors: Nagi Saad S. , Rubin Troy K. , Chelvanayagam David K. , Macefield Vaughan G. , Mahns David A.
Published: July 2011

Non‐technical summary  What triggers a realignment of sensations, e.g. a stimulus that is perceived as non‐painful in intact skin, but evokes pain in sunburned skin, is yet to be ascertained. This phenomenon is clinically termed allodynia. We show that gentle tactile stimulation (vibration and brushing) of the hairy skin can exacerbate the underlying muscle pain (allodynia) evoked by infusion of hypertonic saline into the tibialis anterior muscle. This effect is dependent upon a low‐threshold, mechanosensitive class of nerve fibres in the hairy skin known as C‐tactile (CT) fibres. Knowledge of the role of CT fibres in allodynia increases our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie sensory‐perceptual abnormalities – a common manifestation of clinical‐pain states and neurological disorders.
Heat Conduction Effect on Oscillating Heat Pipe Operation
Authors: Smoot C. D. , Ma H. B. , Wilson C. A. , Greenberg L.
Published: July 2011

The effect of heat conduction through the adiabatic section on the oscillating motion and heat transfer performance in an oscillating heat pipe (OHP) was investigated experimentally. Two, closed loop, six-turn OHPs were constructed: one with a separate copper block for the evaporator and condenser sections (split block design) and one using a single continuous copper block for the evaporator, adiabatic, and condenser sections (continuous block design). The results show that the presence of heat conduction directly from the evaporator wall to the adiabatic section and from the adiabatic section to the condenser of a heat pipe will reduce the oscillating amplitude of the evaporator, adiabatic, and condenser temperatures. It was also found that in addition to a higher level of temperature uniformity, the continuous block design results in better heat transfer performance than a heat pipe without conduction through the adiabatic section.
Modeling of Knudsen Layer Effects in Micro/Nanoscale Gas Flows
Authors: Dongari Nishanth , Zhang Yonghao , Reese Jason M
Published: July 2011

We propose a power-law based effective mean free path (MFP) model so that the Navier-Stokes-Fourier equations can be employed for the transition-regime flows typical of gas micro/nanodevices. The effective MFP model is derived for a system with planar wall confinement by taking into account the boundary limiting effects on the molecular free paths. Our model is validated against molecular dynamics simulation data and compared with other theoretical models. As gas transport properties can be related to the mean free path through kinetic theory, the Navier-Stokes-Fourier constitutive relations are then modified in order to better capture the flow behavior in the Knudsen layers close to surfaces. Our model is applied to fully developed isothermal pressure-driven (Poiseuille) and thermal creep gas flows in microchannels. The results show that our approach greatly improves the near-wall accuracy of the Navier-Stokes-Fourier equations, well beyond the slip-flow regime.
Sequential Phosphorylation of Smoothened Transduces Graded Hedgehog Signaling
Authors: Su Ying , Ospina Jason K. , Zhang Junzheng , Michelson Andrew P. , Schoen Adam M. , Zhu Alan Jian
Published: July 2011

It takes two kinases and two phosphatases acting on a single membrane protein Smoothened to interpret the Hedgehog morphogen gradient.
Damage Limitation Exercise
Authors: Riddihough Guy
Published: July 2011

An in vitro system reveals the steps involved in repairing covalent links between DNA strands of the double helix.
Fight, Flee, or Freeze
Authors: Stern Peter R.
Published: July 2011

Specific neuronal populations in the amygdala control different behavioral and physiological components of the fear response.
Pharmacokinetics and
Ex Vivo
Antimalarial Activity of Artesunate-Azithromycin in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Trong , Quang Nguyen Ngoc , Anh Chu Xuan , Thanh Nguyen Xuan , Dai Bui , Birrell Geoffrey W. , Chavchich Marina , Edstein Michael D.
Published: July 2011

In 18 male healthy subjects, artesunate (200 mg)-azithromycin (1,500 mg) daily for 3 days was found to be well tolerated, with only mild gastrointestinal disturbances reported. The pharmacokinetic properties of artesunate-azithromycin given in combination are comparable to those of the drugs given alone. Artesunate and its major active metabolite, dihydroartemisinin, are responsible for most of the
ex vivo
antimalarial activity, with a delayed contribution by azithromycin.
Antimicrobial Activity of B-Lock against Bacterial and Candida spp. Causing Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Ghannoum M. A. , Isham N. , Jacobs M. R.
Published: July 2011

The triple combination trimethoprim, EDTA, and ethanol (B-Lock), is an antimicrobial lock solution for use in indwelling intravascular catheters to prevent and treat catheter-associated infections. B-Lock demonstrated MICs of ≤0.05% (percentage of solution) against
Candida
spp. (
n
= 125) and 0.003% to 25% against bacterial strains (
n
= 175). B-Lock was also fungicidal against the majority of the
Candida
strains at 6% to 25%. B-Lock demonstrates potential value for the prevention and treatment of catheter-associated infections.