bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ghrelin inhibits autonomic function in healthy controls, but has no effect on obese and vagotomized subjects
Authors: Huda M. S. B. , Mani H. , Dovey T. , Halford J. C. G. , Boyland E. , Daousi C. , Wilding J. P. H. , Pinkney J.
Published: August 2010

Objective  Ghrelin inhibits sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity in rodents. We studied the effect of ghrelin on healthy humans, in obesity and in vagotomized subjects.

Design  Randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled crossover.

Subjects  Seven lean [mean body mass index (BMI) 23·6 ± 0·9 kg/m2], seven morbidly obese (mean BMI 50·9 ± 4·4 kg/m2) and seven post‐gastrectomy subjects (mean BMI 22·0 ± 1·1 kg/m2).

Measurements  Subjects were randomized to intravenous ghrelin (5 pmol/kg/min) or saline over 270 min. Subjects had a fixed calorie meal and a free choice buffet during the infusion. Heart rate variability (HRV) was measured. Total power (TP) represents overall autonomic function, low‐frequency (LF) power represents sympathetic and parasympathetic activity, and high‐frequency (HF) power represents parasympathetic activity. Very low (VLO) frequency represents the frequency band associated with thermogenesis.

Results  Preliminary anova analysis, looking at all three subject groups together, showed that ghrelin had an overall highly significant inhibitory effect on TP (P = 0·001), HF power (P = 0·04), VLO power (P = 0·03) and no effect on LF (P = 0·07). Further subset analysis revealed that ghrelin had a significant effect on TP (P = 0·03), borderline effect on LF power (P = 0·06) and no effect on HF power (P = 0·1) in healthy controls. By contrast in obese subjects, ghrelin had no effect on TP (P = 0·3), LF (P = 0·5) and HF (P = 0·06) and also no effect in the vagotomized subjects on TP (P = 0·7), LF (P = 0·7) and HF (P = 0·9). Ghrelin had no effect on the LF/HF ratio.

Conclusions  Ghrelin inhibits SNS activity in healthy controls with a moderate effect on parasympathetic nervous system activity but had no effect on obese subjects. Vagotomized subjects also did not respond to ghrelin, suggesting the vagus nerve is important for the effects of peripheral ghrelin on the SNS.
What is the best approach to an apparently nonmetastatic adrenocortical carcinoma?
Authors: Fassnacht Martin , Allolio Bruno
Published: August 2010

In suspected nonmetastatic adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) a careful preoperative diagnostic work up is needed including comprehensive endocrine analysis as recommended by the European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors (http://www.ENSAT.org/ACC.htm). Staging prior surgery, in particular chest CT, is indispensable to exclude distant metastases. Open surgery is still the recommended approach in ACC. However, in localized non‐invasive ACC with a diameter <10 cm laparoscopic adrenalectomy by an expert surgeon is probably similarly effective and safe. As many patients will suffer from tumor recurrence after seemingly complete removal of ACC, adjuvant treatment based on the individual risk status is recommended. Key factors for risk assessment are tumor stage, resection status and the proliferation marker Ki67. All patients considered at high risk for recurrence should receive adjuvant mitotane for a minimum of 2 years aiming at a drug level of 14–20 mg/l. In selected patients (e.g. R1 resection) we recommend additional radiotherapy of the tumor bed. Patients with a low/intermediate risk for recurrence should be included in the Adiuvo trial comparing adjuvant mitotane with observation only (http://www.adiuvo‐trial.org). In low/intermediate risk patients who cannot be included in this trial observation only can be justified in cases with a tumor diameter of <8 cm and no microscopic evidence for invasion of blood vessels or tumor capsule. In all patients a structured follow‐up for 10 years is strongly recommended.
Physiological versus standard sex steroid replacement in young women with premature ovarian failure: effects on bone mass acquisition and turnover
Authors: Crofton Patricia M. , Evans Nancy , Bath Louise E. , Warner Pamela , Whitehead Tessa J. , Critchley Hilary O. D. , Kelnar Christopher J. H. , Wallace W. Hamish B.
Published: August 2010

Background  The aim of this exploratory study was to establish whether we could improve skeletal health with a physiological regimen of SSR in young women with premature ovarian failure (POF).

Patients and Methods  In an open‐label randomized controlled crossover trial, 34 women with POF were randomized to 4‐week cycles of pSSR (transdermal oestradiol, 100 μg daily for week 1, 150 μg for weeks 2–4; vaginal progesterone, 200 mg twice daily for weeks 3–4) or standard hormone replacement treatment (sHRT) (oral ethinyloestradiol 30 μg and 1·5 mg norethisterone daily for weeks 1–3, week 4 ‘pill‐free’) for 12 months. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by DEXA at study entry and after each 12‐month treatment period. Blood samples for hormones and markers of bone formation (bone alkaline phosphatase, BALP and type I collagen N‐terminal propeptide, PINP) and bone resorption (CrossLaps) were collected pre‐/postwashout and after 3, 6 and 12 months of each treatment.

Results  Eighteen women, mean 27 (range 19–39) years, completed the study. Both regimens caused similar suppression of LH and FSH. Mean baseline lumbar spine BMD z‐score was −0·89 (95% CI −1·27 to −0·51) and increased by +0·17 (CI +0·07 to +0·27) in response to pSSR (P = 0·003), compared with +0·07 (CI −0·03 to +0·18) during standard HRT (P = 0·2). During pSSR, the increment in lumbar spine BMD z‐score was related positively to oestradiol (r = +0·49, P = 0·04) and inversely to FSH (r = −0·65, P = 0·004). Bone formation markers, BALP and P1NP increased in the pSSR arm (anovaP < 0·001) but decreased in the sHRT arm (P < 0·01). Both treatments suppressed the bone resorption marker, CrossLaps (P < 0·001).

Conclusion  We conclude that pSSR over 12 months has a beneficial affect on bone mass acquisition on the lumbar spine in women with POF, mediated by increased bone formation and decreased bone resorption.
Flow cytometry as an accurate tool to complement fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of low grade malignant lymphomas
Authors: Schmid S. , Tinguely M. , Cione P. , Moch H. , Bode B.
Published: August 2010

S. Schmid, M. Tinguely, P. Cione, H. Moch and B. Bode  Flow cytometry as an accurate tool to complement fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of low grade malignant lymphomas

Objective:  Diagnosis of low grade non‐Hodgkin B‐cell lymphomas on cytological material may be problematic and in the past frequently required lymph node excision. We analysed our experience of the value of flow cytometry (FC) as an additional tool for the diagnosis of lymphoproliferative processes in the setting of a university cytology division with a busy fine needle cytology service.

Methods:  Consecutive cytological specimens with FC over a period of 3 years were retrospectively analysed and correlated with histology and follow‐up if available. FC was performed with the following antibodies: CD3, CD4, CD8, CD2, CD7, CD19, CD5, CD10, CD23, lambda and kappa chains.

Results:  Of 299 probes (273 fine needle aspirations and 26 fluids from 285 patients), 179 cases (60%) were diagnosed as reactive, 91 cases (30%) as malignant or suspicious and 29 cases (10%) as inconclusive. The results of histological examination of the lymph nodes were available in 41 of 91 (45%) malignant or suspicious cases and in 13 of 179 (7%) reactive cytological diagnoses. Cytologically diagnosed malignancy was confirmed in all histologically examined cases. In 12 of 13 reactive cytological cases (92%), a benign process was diagnosed histologically. In 34 of 299 cases (11%) additional molecular investigations of B‐cell clonality or specific translocations were performed. The lymphomas most frequently diagnosed were follicular lymphoma and lymphocytic lymphoma, followed by mantle cell and marginal zone lymphomas. Correlation with histology showed a sensitivity of 98% and a specificity of 100% for cytology in our series.

Conclusions:  FC is an important additional tool in the cytological diagnosis of lymphoproliferative disorders. The combined approach has a high diagnostic value that allows a reliable subclassification of low grade B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas.
Use of cardio‐ankle vascular index in chronic dialysis patients
Authors: Shen Tsu‐Wang , Wang Chih‐Hsien , Lai Yu‐Hsien , Hsu Bang‐Gee , Liou Hung‐Hsiang , Fang Te‐Chao
Published: August 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 41 (1): 45–51

Background  Arterial stiffness is an independent predictor of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors for de novo arterial stiffness in long‐term dialysis patients.

Materials and methods  A total of 59 dialysis patients without initial arterial stiffness were studied for 1 year. Cardio‐ankle vascular index (CAVI) was measured and a CAVI value ≥ 9 at the end of 1 year was defined as de novo arterial stiffness. The initial baseline characteristics and laboratory parameters and final laboratory parameters after 1 year were analysed.

Results  Dialysis patients with de novo arterial stiffness were significantly older than dialysis patients without de novo arterial stiffness. Initial serum phosphorus and calcium × phosphorus product of dialysis patients with de novo arterial stiffness were significantly greater than those of dialysis patients without de novo arterial stiffness. The haematocrit of dialysis patients with de novo arterial stiffness was significantly lower than that of dialysis patients without de novo arterial stiffness. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age and initial serum phosphorus were independent risk factors for de novo arterial stiffness in dialysis patients.

Conclusion  After 1‐year follow‐up, de novo arterial stiffness in dialysis patients as determined by CAVI was significantly associated with age and initial serum phosphorus.
The influence of landscape on population structure of four invertebrates in groundwater springs
Authors: MURPHY NICHOLAS P. , GUZIK MICHELLE T. , WILMER JESSICA WORTHINGTON
Published: August 2010

1. The unique aquatic fauna of the island‐like groundwater springs of arid inland Australia raises important questions as to how aquatic species persist in very isolated and fragmented habitats and the role that dispersal may play in mitigating/mediating the influence of landscape structure and determining population structure. By determining the relationship between genetics and geography (i.e. phylogeography), the historical processes responsible for population structure can be determined.

2. We undertook comparative phylogeographic studies of invertebrates from springs south of Lake Eyre. Clusters of springs lying within and between surface drainage catchments (which provide a potential connection between springs) were sampled, and the phylogeographic structure of four coexisting species, an ostracod Ngarwa dirga, a snail Fonscochlea accepta, an isopod Phreatomerus latipes and an amphipod Wangiannachiltonia guzikae, was examined.

3. Clear differences in the geographic patterns of genetic structure were found amongst the four species. No discernable genetic structure was found in ostracod and snail populations, even amongst springs lying 20 km apart in separate surface catchments; isopod populations were highly genetically structured amongst springs located in separate catchments, but not within catchments, whilst amphipod populations were highly genetically structured amongst springs both within and between catchments.

4. The results suggest that differences in dispersal ability of each species, and not the overall fragmented nature of the springs, may have led to large differences in phylogeographic history. Interestingly, the relative dispersal ability of these species may be related to their vulnerability to and recovery from large‐scale flood events. Therefore, despite the highly isolated and fragmented nature of the springs, the landscape has not strongly influenced the population structure of the aquatic invertebrate community as a whole nor has it led to the evolution of common life histories.
Effects of coalbed natural gas development on fish assemblages in tributary streams of the Powder and Tongue rivers
Authors: DAVIS WINDY N. , BRAMBLETT ROBERT G. , ZALE ALEXANDER V.
Published: August 2010

1. Extraction of coalbed natural gas (CBNG) often results in disposal of large quantities of CBNG product water, which may affect aquatic ecosystems. We evaluated the effects of CBNG development on fish assemblages in tributary streams of the Powder and Tongue rivers. We used treatment and control, impact versus reference sites comparisons, surveys of CBNG product‐water streams and in situ fish survival approaches to determine if CBNG development affected fish assemblages.

2. Several of our results suggested that CBNG development did not affect fish assemblages. Species richness and index of biotic integrity (IBI) scores were similar in streams with and streams without CBNG development, and overall biotic integrity was not related to the number or density of CBNG wells. Fish occurred in one stream that was composed largely or entirely of CBNG product water. Sentinel fish survived in cages at treatment sites where no or few fish were captured, suggesting that factors such as lack of stream connectivity rather than water quality limited fish abundance at these sites. Fish species richness did not differ significantly from 1994 to 2006 in comparisons of CBNG‐developed and undeveloped streams. Biotic integrity declined from 1994 to 2006; however, declines occurred at both impact and reference sites, possibly because of long‐term drought.

3. Some evidence suggested that CBNG development negatively affected fish assemblages, or may do so over time. Specific conductivity was on average higher in treatment streams and was negatively related to biotic integrity. Four IBI species richness metrics were negatively correlated with the number or density of CBNG wells in the catchment above sampling sites. Bicarbonate, one of the primary ions in product water, was significantly higher in developed streams and may have limited abundance of longnose dace (Rhinichthys cataractae). Total dissolved solids, alkalinity, magnesium and sulphate were significantly higher in developed streams.

4. Biological monitoring conducted before the development of CBNG, and continuing through the life of development and reclamation, together with data on the quantity, quality and fate of CBNG product water will allow robust assessment of potential effects of future CBNG development worldwide.
Abiotic and biotic processes in lakes recovering from acidification: the relative roles of metal toxicity and fish predation as barriers to zooplankton re‐establishment
Authors: VALOIS AMANDA , BILL KELLER W. , RAMCHARAN CHARLES
Published: August 2010

1. Recovery of acidified aquatic systems may be affected by both abiotic and biotic processes. However, the relative roles of these factors in regulating recovery may be difficult to determine. Lakes around the smelting complexes near Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, formerly affected by acidification and metal exploration, provide an excellent opportunity to examine the factors regulating the recovery of aquatic communities.

2. Substantial recovery of zooplankton communities has occurred in these lakes following declines in acidity and metal concentrations, although toxicity by residual metals still appears to limit survival for many species. Metal bioavailability, not simply total metal concentrations, was very important in determining effects on zooplankton and was associated with a decrease in the relative abundance of cyclopoids and Daphnia spp., resulting in communities dominated by Holopedium gibberum.

3.  As chemical habitat quality has improved and fish, initially yellow perch and later piscivores (e.g. smallmouth bass, walleye), have invaded, biotic effects on the zooplankton are also becoming apparent. Simple fish assemblages dominated by perch appear to limit the survival of some zooplankton species, particularly Daphnia mendotae.

4. Both abiotic (residual metal contamination) and biotic (predation from planktivorous fish) processes have very important effects on zooplankton recovery. The re‐establishment of the zooplankton in lakes recovering from stress will require both improvements in habitat quality and the restoration of aquatic food webs.
Experimental evidence for the Berg hypothesis: vegetative traits are more sensitive than pollination traits to environmental variation
Authors: Pélabon Christophe , Armbruster W. Scott , Hansen Thomas F.
Published: August 2010

1. In plants with specialized pollination, functionally important floral traits are expected to be under strong selection for accuracy. This may, however, conflict with a general tendency for size‐related traits to covary. Previous studies have addressed this fundamental conflict by analysing natural variation across samples of structures, but here we compare the effects of experimentally induced environmental differences on variation in serially homologous pollination and vegetative traits.

2. We examined the effects of experimental variation in nutrient availability and total daily irradiance on two pairs of serially homologous traits in two populations ofDalechampia scandens: (i) The length of the floral bract blade and the length of the leaf blade, and (ii) the length of stipules associated with bracts and leaves. The first pair contrasts a floral trait that is likely to experience canalizing selection (bract blade) with a homologous vegetative trait that does not experience canalizing selection (leaf blade). The second contrasts homologous floral and vegetative traits that are likely to experience similar selective pressures. We also examined variational properties of two blossom traits that interact directly with pollinators: the area of the resin gland and the length of the styles.

3. Variation in the bract blades was decoupled from variation in the vegetative traits and followed the variational patterns of the two blossom traits that are functional in pollination. Stipules associated with bracts and leaves were affected similarly by the experimental treatments in a pattern characteristic of vegetative traits.

4. These results are consistent with the Berg hypothesis of decoupling and canalization of specialized floral structures and support the idea that the variability can evolve in response to selection on variation.
Integrating aquatic and terrestrial components to construct a complete carbon budget for a north temperate lake district
Authors: BUFFAM ISHI , TURNER MONICA G. , DESAI ANKUR R. , HANSON PAUL C. , RUSAK JAMES A. , LOTTIG NOAH R. , STANLEY EMILY H. , CARPENTER STEPHEN R.
Published: August 2010

The development of complete regional carbon (C) budgets for different biomes is an integral step in the effort to predict global response and potential feedbacks to a changing climate regime. Wetland and lake contributions to regional C cycling remain relatively uncertain despite recent research highlighting their importance. Using a combination of field surveys and tower‐based carbon dioxide (CO2) flux measurements, modeling, and published literature, we constructed a complete C budget for the Northern Highlands Lake District in northern Wisconsin/Michigan, a ∼6400 km2region rich in lakes and wetlands. This is one of the first regional C budgets to incorporate aquatic and terrestrial C cycling under the same framework. We divided the landscape into three major compartments (forests, wetlands, and surface waters) and quantified all major C fluxes into and out of those compartments, with a particular focus on atmospheric exchange but also including sedimentation in lakes and hydrologic fluxes. Landscape C storage was dominated by peat‐containing wetlands and lake sediments, which make up only 20% and 13% of the landscape area, respectively, but contain >80% of the total fixed C pool (ca. 400 Tg). We estimated a current regional C accumulation of 1.1±0.1 Tg yr−1, and the largest regional flux was forest net ecosystem exchange (NEE) into aggrading forests for a total of 1.0±0.1 Tg yr−1. Mean wetland NEE (0.12±0.06 Tg yr−1into wetlands), lake CO2emissions and riverine efflux (each ca. 0.03±0.01 Tg yr−1) were smaller but of consequence to the overall budget. Hydrologic transport from uplands/wetlands to surface waters within the region was an important vector of terrestrial C. Regional C fluxes and pools would be misrepresented without inclusion of surface waters and wetlands, and C budgets in heterogeneous landscapes open opportunities to examine the sensitivities of important fluxes to changes in climate and land use/land cover.
Stem respiration in tropical forests along an elevation gradient in the Amazon and Andes
Authors: ROBERTSON AMANDA L. , MALHI YADVINDER , FARFAN‐AMEZQUITA FILIO , ARAGÃO LUIZ EDUARDO O. C. , SILVA ESPEJO JAVIER EDUARDO , ROBERTSON MATTHEW A.
Published: August 2010

Autotrophic respiration involves the use of fixed carbon by plants for their own metabolism, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide as a by‐product. Little is known of how autotrophic respiration components vary across environmental gradients, particularly in tropical ecosystems. Here, we present stem CO2 efflux data measured across an elevation transect spanning ca. 2800 m in the Peruvian Amazon and Andes. Forest plots from five elevations were studied: 194, 210, 1000, 1500, and 3025 m asl Stem CO2 efflux (Rs) values from each plot were extrapolated to the 1‐ha plot level. Mean Rs per unit stem surface area declined significantly with elevation, from 1.14±0.12 at 210 m elevation to 0.62±0.09 μmol C m−2 s−1 at 3025 m elevation. When adjusted for changing forest structure with elevation, this is equivalent to 6.45±1.12 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 at 210 m elevation to 2.94±0.19 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 at 3025 m elevation. We attempted to partition stem respiration into growth and maintenance respiration components for each site. Both growth and maintenance respiration rates per unit stem showed similar, moderately significant absolute declines with elevation, but the proportional decline in growth respiration rates was much greater. Stem area index (SAI) showed little trend along the transect, with declining tree stature at higher elevations being offset by an increased number of small trees. This trend in SAI is sensitive to changes in forest stature or size structure. In the context of rapid regional warming over the 21st century, such indirect, ecosystem‐level temperature responses are likely to be as important as the direct effects of temperature on maintenance respiration rates.
Primary mucin‐producing tumours of the salivary glands: a clinicopathological and morphometric study
Authors: Yakirevich Evgeny , Sabo Edmond , Klorin Geula , Alos Llucia , Cardesa Antonio , Ellis Gary L , Shumway Brian S , Gnepp Douglas R
Published: August 2010

Yakirevich E, Sabo E, Klorin G, Alos L, Cardesa A, Ellis G L, Shumway B S & Gnepp D R (2010) Histopathology 57, 395–409 Primary mucin‐producing tumours of the salivary glands: a clinicopathological and morphometric study

Aims:  To determine clinicopathological and morphometric features that discriminate between mucin‐producing primary salivary gland carcinomas.

Materials and results:  Fifteen mucin‐producing tumours were stratified into five colloid carcinomas (CCs), four mucinous cystadenocarcinomas (MCAs), three mucin‐rich salivary duct carcinomas (SDCs) and three mucin‐rich mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MECs). The mean patient age was 70, 58, 43 and 63 years for CC, MCA, SDC and MEC, respectively. Eleven of 15 patients were female. The majority of CC cases originated from major salivary glands; MCA showed a predilection for the minor salivary glands. No disease‐related mortality was observed in the CC group; one patient died in the MCA group, and one in the SDC group. Receiver–operating characteristic curve analysis revealed an optimal cut‐off point of 17% of the tumour cells in contact with stroma that best distinguished between the CC and MCA. Histomorphometric measurements revealed that CC was best differentiated from MCA by smaller nuclear size and more regular chromatin.

Conclusions:  Strict morphological criteria of CC coupled with assessment of the tumour cell/stroma relationship and the nuclear features facilitate discrimination between mucinous tumours of salivary gland.
Nature and nurture: T‐cell receptor‐dependent and T‐cell receptor‐independent differentiation cues in the selection of the memory T‐cell pool
Authors: Kim Chulwoo , Williams Matthew A.
Published: August 2010

The initiation of a T‐cell response begins with the interaction of an individual T‐cell clone with its cognate antigen presented by MHC. Although the strength of the T‐cell receptor (TCR) –antigen–MHC (TCR‐pMHC) interaction plays an important and obvious role in the recruitment of T cells into the immune response, evidence in recent years has suggested that the strength of this initial interaction can influence various other aspects of the fate of an individual T‐cell clone and its daughter cells. In this review, we will describe differences in the way CD4+ and CD8+ T cells incorporate antigen‐driven differentiation and survival signals during the response to acute infection. Furthermore, we will discuss increasing evidence that the quality and/or quantity of the initial TCR‐pMHC interaction can drive the differentiation and long‐term survival of T helper type 1 memory populations.
Parallel evolution of cytochrome b mediated bifenazate resistance in the citrus red mite Panonychus citri
Authors: Van Leeuwen T. , Van Nieuwenhuyse P. , Vanholme B. , Dermauw W. , Nauen R. , Tirry L.
Published: August 2010

Bifenazate is a recently developed acaricide that is mainly used to control spider mites on a variety of crops. Although first thought to be a neurotoxin, genetic evidence obtained from bifenazate resistant Tetranychus urticae strains suggested an alternative mode of action as a Qo pocket inhibitor of the mitochondrial complex III. In this study, we reveal how bifenazate resistance in strains of Panonychus citri is maternally inherited and can confer cross‐resistance to the known Qo inhibitor acequinocyl. The mitochondrial genome of P. citri was sequenced and Qo pocket mutations were shown to be linked with the resistant trait. Parallel evolution of cytochrome b mediated bifenazate resistance corroborates the alternative mode of action and yet again illustrates that care should be taken when employing Qo inhibitors as crop protection compounds.
Quality characteristics improvement of low‐phenylalanine toast bread
Authors: Mohsen Sobhy M. , Yaseen Attia A. , Ammar Abdalla M. , Mohammad Ayman A.
Published: August 2010

This study was designed to prepare and evaluate low‐phenylalanine toast bread made from gliadin‐free wheat flour and hydrocolloids. Wheat protein fraction (gliadin) rich in phenylalanine was extracted using aqueous alcohol solution for the production of low‐phenylalanine wheat flour. Pectin, gum arabic and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) were used separately to improve the quality of bread at levels of 1, 2 and 3%. Chemical, rheological, organoleptic, baking, staling and microstructure of bread were studied. Phenylalanine content of gliadin‐free bread samples reduced by 43.2% compared with control. Separation of gliadin negatively affected the rheological properties of dough and baking quality of bread, while rheological properties, baking quality and staling were improved upon hydrocolloids addition. Microscopic examination of crumb structure revealed remarkable differences in control and treated breads. It was found that acceptable bread could be produced using gliadin‐free wheat flour with the addition of pectin or CMC up to 2 and 3%, respectively.
Quality variations in flours used for pretzel manufacturing
Authors: Yao Ni , Seetharaman Koushik
Published: August 2010

Research on the flour properties and their influence on pretzel characteristics is scarce. In the first part of the study, flour protein quantity and quality, flour pasting properties and solvent retention properties of 108 flour samples were investigated to help profile the flour properties used by the pretzel industry. Four different flours with a wider protein range than what was revealed in the flour evaluation were selected to produce pretzels and to determine the relationship between flour properties and the final product quality. Pretzel hardness, colour and pasting properties were used as a measure of pretzel quality. Results indicated that hard wheat flour would produce a harder pretzel but would not affect the surface colour of final product. However, soft wheat flour with a lower damaged starch, low water absorption levels and lower water binding powers during operations is desired for making hard pretzel.
Effects of CO2 and O2 shocks at high temperature on postharvest quality of cold‐stored citrus fruit
Authors: Rojas‐Argudo Cristina , Ángel Del Río Miguel , Montesinos‐Herrero Clara , Palou Lluís
Published: August 2010

The effect of CO2 or O2 shocks at high temperature on the quality of citrus fruits stored at 5 °C for up to 6 weeks followed by shelf life of 1 week at 20 °C was investigated. ‘Ortanique’ and ‘Nadorcott’ mandarins exposed to 95 kPa CO2 at 33 °C for 24 h showed apparent rind physiological disorders and a global loss of fruit quality. Exposure to CO2 concentrations up to 50 kPa at 33 °C for 24 h did not adversely affect mandarin quality. Moreover, the treatment of mandarins and ‘Valencia’ oranges with 15 kPa CO2 and 30 kPa O2, respectively, both at 33 °C for 48 h, reduced weight and rind firmness loss and prevented the accumulation of fermentative volatiles on cold‐stored fruit.
Moisture sorption isotherms and isosteric heat of sorption of coffee in different processing levels
Authors: Corrêa Paulo C. , Goneli André L. D. , Júnior Paulo C. A. , De Oliveira Gabriel H. H. , Valente Domingos S. M.
Published: August 2010

The desorption isotherms and thermodynamic properties of coffee from different processing stages were obtained during the drying process of this product. The isotherms were determined by a static gravimetric method for various temperature and humidity conditions. Equilibrium moisture content (Me) data were correlated by several mathematical models and an artificial neural network (ANN) model. The Me for coffee fruits, pulped coffee and green coffee increased with an increase in the water activity (aw) at any particular temperature. At a constant aw, coffee fruits samples had higher Me than the remaining coffee samples. Based on statistical parameters, the ANN model, modified Henderson and GAB models were adequate to describe the sorption characteristics of the samples. Isosteric heat of sorption was evaluated by means of the Clausius–Clapeyron equation. It decreased with increasing moisture content. The coffee fruits had higher isosteric heat of sorption than that pulped coffee and green coffee.
Antioxidative and reducing capacity, macroelements content and sensorial properties of buckwheat‐enhanced gluten‐free bread
Authors: Wronkowska Małgorzata , Zielińska Danuta , Szawara‐Nowak Dorota , Troszyńska Agnieszka , Soral‐Śmietana Maria
Published: August 2010

Common buckwheat flour (BF) was used to substitute 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% of corn starch, the main component of a gluten‐free bread formula, to make buckwheat‐enhanced gluten‐free breads. The 40% BF‐enhanced gluten‐free bread showed the highest antioxidant capacity against ABTS+˙ and DPPH˙ radicals (4.1 and 2.5 μmol Trolox g−1DM, respectively) and reducing capacity measured by cyclic voltammetry (1.5 μmol Trolox g−1DM). The antioxidant and reducing capacity of buckwheat‐enhanced gluten‐free breads were positively correlated with their total phenolic contents (r = 0.97). The 40% BF‐enhanced gluten‐free bread showed the highest overall sensory quality (7.1 units) when compared to control gluten‐free bread (1.8 units). The linear relationship between applied increasing BF doses in gluten‐free bread formula and magnesium, phosphorus and potassium content in breads was noted. It was concluded that 40% BF‐enhanced gluten‐free bread could be developed and dedicated to those people suffering from coeliac disease.
Growth characteristics of agrowaste‐immobilised lactobacilli in soymilk during refrigerated storage
Authors: Teh Sue‐Siang , Bhat Rajeev , Ahmad Rosma , Wan‐Abdullah Wan‐Nadiah , Liong Min‐Tze
Published: August 2010

We aimed at evaluating agricultural wastes as solid supports for the immobilisation of lactobacilli in a liquid media, namely soymilk. Lactobacillus acidophilus FTDC 1331, L. acidophilus FTDC 2631, L. acidophilus FTDC 2333, L. acidophilus FTDC 1733 and L. bulgaricus FTCC 0411 were immobilised on solid supports produced from durian (Durio zibethinus), cempedak (Artocarpus champeden) and mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana). The immobilised cells were inoculated into soymilk and stored at 4 °C over 168 h. Soymilk inoculated with non‐immobilised cells was used as the control. Immobilised cells showed higher survivability over 168 h compared to the control, accompanied by higher reduction of simple sugars and oligosaccharides in soymilk. Higher growth and higher utilisation of substrates also led to the higher production of lactic and acetic acids, which lowered the pH in soymilk compared to the control. Our results illustrated that agrowastes could be used as immobilisers to enhance the growth of lactobacilli in a liquid medium.
Seeking children’s perspectives in the management of visible enamel defects
Authors: Rodd H.D. , Abdul‐Karim A. , Yesudian G. , O’Mahony J. , Marshman Z.
Published: August 2010

Aim

To undertake a child‐centred evaluation of treatment provision for visible enamel defects.

Design

Postal questionnaires, developed with children, were sent to 88 patients, aged 7–16 years, with visible enamel defects of permanent incisors and who had received microabrasion, with/without additional composite restoration at Sheffield Dental Hospital, UK. The questionnaires sought children’s perceptions about their teeth before and after the intervention, as well as their evaluation of how they had been treated. Anonymised responses were graded using a 10 cm visual analogue scale (VAS) where a score of 10 indicated the most negative response, and zero the most positive response.

Results

Sixty three questionnaires were returned (72% response). Prior to treatment, children reported high levels of worry (VAS = 6.8), embarrassment (VAS = 6.9) and a perception that their teeth looked yellow and discoloured (VAS = 7.3). Following treatment, children thought their teeth looked much better (VAS = 1.6), felt happier (VAS = 2.2) and more confident (VAS = 1.6). They also felt very positive about their clinical experiences, rating the staff as extremely friendly and kind (VAS = 0.4) and reporting that procedures were clearly explained (VAS = 0.6).

Conclusions

Simple non‐invasive dental treatment can have a positive effect on appearance‐related satisfaction. The use of child‐centred approaches offers an invaluable insight into patient perspectives.
Molar incisor hypomineralization: prevalence, severity and clinical consequences in Brazilian children
Authors: DA COSTA‐SILVA CRISTIANE MARIA , JEREMIAS FABIANO , De SOUZA JULIANA FELTRIN , De CÁSSIA LOIOLA CORDEIRO RITA , SANTOS‐PINTO LOURDES , CILENSE ZUANON ANGELA CRISTINA
Published: August 2010

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2010; 20: 426–434

Background.  The prevalence of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) varies considerably around the world; however, few studies have examined MIH in South American countries.

Objective.  To evaluate the prevalence, severity, and clinical consequences of MIH in Brazilian children residing in rural and urban areas of the municipality of Botelhos, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Methods.  Children aged 6 to 12 years (n = 918) with all four‐first permanent molars erupted had these teeth evaluated according to the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD) criteria. The examinations were conducted by two previously trained examiners, and the dental impact caused by MIH was evaluated with the Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index (WHO).

Results.  Molar incisor hypomineralization was present in 19.8% of the 918 children, with a higher prevalence in rural areas. The majority of the defects presented were demarcated opacities without post‐eruptive structural loss, which has been considered as mild defects. Children with MIH had higher DMFT values.

Conclusion.  Despite the high prevalence of MIH, the severity of the defects was mild. The results indicate a positive association between MIH and the presence of dental caries.
Repeat general anaesthesia, a 6‐year follow up
Authors: Kakaounaki Eirini , Tahmassebi Jinous F. , Fayle Stephen A.
Published: August 2010

Objective

To investigate the number of children who subsequently required further dental general anaesthesia (DGA) following the baseline DGA for exodontia in 1997 over the next 6 year period, and identify any common factors related to these repeat DGAs.

Design

A retrospective longitudinal analysis.

Materials and methods

Records from a UK teaching hospital for patients who had extractions under DGA within the calendar year of 1997 were identified and analysed. The individual’s demographic details, reasons for the baseline DGA, teeth extracted, number of subsequent DGAs, the reasons for repeat DGA and finally any episodes of pain and/or infection after 1997 were recorded.

Results

During 1997, a total of 484 children with mean age of 6.35 (ranged between 1 and 16 years) received a DGA for exodontias. The most common reason for the exodontias carried out at this baseline DGA was dental caries and mean number of exodontias was 4.24. Of the total study population 8.9% subsequently had at least one unplanned repeat DGA, with dental caries being a factor in 84% of the cases. Of the subsequently extracted teeth 71.9% were caries free or unerupted at the time of the initial DGA. Of the children who had a repeat DGA, 61% had experienced at least one episode of pain and/or infection subsequent to the first episode of DGA. The pattern of the child’s attendance and the recorded experience of oral pain and infection after the baseline DGA in 1997 were variables proved to be strongly associated with the risk of having an unplanned repeat DGA, with the children who were irregular attenders having a four times increased risk.

Conclusions

Two common factors were identified which might predict the potential for a child requiring a repeat DGA; irregular attendance and oral pain and infection.
Multiple pathways for tree regeneration in anthropogenic savannas: incorporating biotic and abiotic drivers into management schemes
Authors: Pulido Fernando , García Eustolia , Obrador José J. , Moreno Gerardo
Published: August 2010

1. Oak savannas are biodiversity‐rich landscapes allowing sustainable livestock production throughout the world. The long‐term persistence of these ecosystems critically depends on the regeneration of the tree layer. Nevertheless, studies addressing the mechanisms involved for conservation planning are of limited value because they tend to focus on single explanatory factors.

2. We evaluated the combined effect of biotic and abiotic factors on recruitment of holm oak Quercus ilex in the Mediterranean savannas of western Spain. Transition probabilities from flower to seed to the established seedling were estimated in grazed, shrub‐encroached and cropped plus fenced habitats in two consecutive years.

3. Trees in cropped habitats produced more female flowers and larger acorn crops in both years. The physiological condition of trees was better in cropped habitats and worst in shrub‐encroached plots. Overall, resource‐mediated effects overrode the effects of biotic damage on tree fecundity in all habitats.

4. Acorn survival and seedling establishment were higher in cropped and shrub‐encroached plots, though in cropped plots saplings are predictably destroyed by subsequent grazing and/or by mechanical treatment used to restart the cropping cycle.

5. Complete regeneration failure was found in 6 out of 24 possible management scenarios, mostly in the presence of large vertebrate herbivores. However, even low positive cumulative transition probabilities between life stages exceeded a safe threshold for early regeneration.

6. Synthesis and applications. Natural early recruitment of oak savannas can be achieved through various management regimes. These include cereal cropping in fenced plots (provided established saplings were not subsequently destroyed) or shrub encroachment in undergrazed or livestock‐excluded plots. Among these, natural recruitment after encroachment is a cost‐effective tool as compared to artificial plantation.
An integrative review of the literature on registered nurses’ medication competence
Authors: Sulosaari Virpi , Suhonen Riitta , Leino‐Kilpi Helena
Published: August 2010

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this integrative literature review was to describe registered nurses’ medication competence. The objectives of the literature review were to chart the need for future studies and use the results for instrument development.

Background.  Nurses play a vital role in different phases of a patient’s medication process and thus need adequate competence to fulfil their role. Research on nurses’ level of medication competence in different competency areas has been published. However, previous studies have lacked a comprehensive or integrated definition or description of medication competence in nursing.

Design.  Integrative literature review.

Methods.  The integrative literature review followed five stages: (1) problem identification, (2) literature search, (3) data evaluation, (4) data analysis and (5) presentation. Eligible articles were identified via systematic literature search of research and evidence‐based – databases. Twenty‐one studies met the selection criteria.

Results.  Eleven competency areas that constitute nurses’ medication competence were identified: (1) anatomy and physiology, (2) pharmacology, (3) communication, (4) interdisciplinary collaboration, (5) information seeking, (6) mathematical and medication calculation, (7) medication administration, (8) medication education, (9) assessment and evaluation, (10) documentation and (11) promoting medication safety as part of patient safety. The analysis revealed three major categories which integrate these competency areas: (1) decision making competence, (2) theoretical competence and (3) practical competence.

Conclusions.  Medication competence requires a solid knowledge base and the ability to apply that knowledge in real‐life situations during often complex and dynamic patient medication processes. Decision making competence was found to be an important and integral part of a nurses’ theoretical and practical competence. These main competence categories integrated all of the 11 competency areas identified in this review.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important to determine registered nurses’ medication competence in the context of developing nursing education and migration of the nursing workforce. This literature review contributes an integrated perspective on nurses’ medication competence and in doing so has clinical relevance for curriculum development and to future research in this area.
Review: a meta‐synthesis of qualitative research into needs and experiences of significant others to critically ill or injured patients
Authors: Linnarsson Josefin Rahmqvist , Bubini Jennifer , Perseius Kent‐Inge
Published: August 2010

Aims and objectives.  This study aimed to describe the significant others’ experiences and needs when a person is critically ill or injured in an acute care setting.

Background.  Being a significant other to a hospitalised critically ill or injured patient is a heavily distressing life event. Addressing significant others’ needs adequately has been shown to be essential to mitigate the psychological consequences of such distressing events.

Design.  A systematic review of qualitative research.

Methods.  Meta‐ethnographic synthesis was used for analysis.

Results.  The key findings are described in five major themes: uncertainty and emotional ‘roller coaster’; information – balancing hope and reality; to guard and to protect the loved one; alliance with caregivers – crucial support; and social network – support and disequilibrium.

Conclusions.  The study can provide a broader understanding of the significant others’ situation. They are facing an overwhelming and emotionally challenging situation and need to be seen and heard.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The results point towards the nurses’ key position in handling the needs of the significant others. This kind of description might be helpful in taking on this delicate task and might also serve as a body of knowledge to influence clinical practice guidelines and nursing interventions in this field.
Experiences of day care and collaboration among people with mild dementia
Authors: Brataas Hildfrid V , Bjugan Helga , Wille Trude , Hellzen Ove
Published: August 2010

Aims.  The study was designed to assess how a day care programme once a week, for seven weeks, with group collaboration and social and cultural activities was experienced by clients. The aim was to provide some insight into how older adults with mild cognitive impairment perceive and experience day care.

Background.  As a consequence of social withdrawal, older adults with mild dementia may suffer a loss of meaningful social life and mental stimulus. Person‐centred and collaborative day care may provide support to remaining abilities and facilitate for social activities. Little is known about client experiences and whether and how day care gives meaning to everyday life of persons with mild dementia.

Design.  A qualitative interview study in a narrative content analysis design.

Methods.  This study involved narrative interviews with nine Norwegian clients, aged 77–88 years of age, living at home, all being old people with mild dementia.

Results.  Three main themes emerged: ‘Ambivalence Shifts to Interest’, ‘Meaningful Engagement Engenders Wellbeing’ and ‘Social Fellowship Promotes Life Contentment’. The findings gave insights into how people with mild dementia had positive experiences from a once‐a‐week day programme.

Conclusions.  This study demonstrates feelings of more meaningful lives, well‐being and contentment as effects of collaborative day care participation. Safe transfer was a prerequisite to participate. There is a need of more research on how to facilitate person‐centred and collaborative day care provided for groups in different contexts, culturally pluralistic groups and groups of younger seniors with mild dementia.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Persons with mild dementia may practice remaining social and collaborative skills when care facilitate and moderate participant involvement. Therefore, facilitating for clients’ feelings of control in secure environments, narrative conversations, group activities and collaborative group interaction are suggested.