bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification of Parvalbumin from Carp: A Protocol that Avoids Heat‐Treatment
Authors: Koppelman Stef J. , Romijn Roland A. , De Jongh Harmen H.J. , Nordlee Julie A. , Piersma Sander , Hessing Martin , Taylor Steve L.
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT:  Parvalbumin from carp, a major allergen, was purified to homogeneity using ion exchange chromatography and size exclusion chromatography (estimated purity >95% to 98% based on SDS‐PAGE and native PAGE) with a yield of 318 mg, and a number of basic biochemical characteristics were determined. The identity was confirmed by peptide‐mass fingerprinting, and IgE‐binding was demonstrated. The UV/Vis absorbance spectra were explained using the previously published amino acid sequences. Far UV‐CD spectroscopy was used to confirm the folding character of parvalbumin. We conclude that parvalbumin from carp can be purified on a comparatively large (hundreds of milligrams) scale using a purification protocol that does not include denaturing steps. The purified protein resembles biochemical characteristics as were earlier published for carp parvalbumin, that is, a molecular weight of approximately 12 kDa, amino acid sequence identity and a secondary structure containing α‐helices and β‐structures. The described method provides a yield sufficient to produce and characterize antibodies to construct immunochemical methods to detect parvalbumin in food, as well as for use as a standard calibrator for such assays.

Practical Application: Parvalbumin is a major allergen from fish. Here, we have purified a comparatively large quantity from carp that can be used to develop antisera for use in an assay method to detect fish allergens.
Postharvest Hardness and Color Evolution of White Button Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus)
Authors: Mohapatra Debabandya , Bira Zuberi M. , Kerry Joe P. , Frías Jesús M. , Rodrigues Fernanda A.
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT:  The quality evaluation of mushrooms was studied by storing fresh white button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) for 6 to 8 d, at various controlled temperature conditions (3.5 to 15 °C) and measuring the instrumental textural hardness and color of the mushroom cap for different product batches. A nonlinear mixed effect Weibull model was used to describe mushroom cap texture and color kinetics during storage considering the batch variability into account. Storage temperature was found to play a significant role in controlling texture and color degradation. On lowering storage temperature (i) the extent of the final browning extent in the mushroom after storage was reduced and (ii) the rate textural hardness losses was slowed down. A linear dependence of the final browning index with temperature was found. An Arrhenius type relationship was found to exist between the temperature of storage and storage time with respect to textural hardness. The average batch energy of activation was calculated to be 207 ± 42kJ/mol in a temperature range of 3.5 to 20 °C.

Practical Application: This article evaluates how temperature abuse affects mushroom texture and color, applying methods that allow for the consideration of the natural product variability that is inherent in mushrooms. Its results apply to mushroom producers, retail distribution, and supermarkets for effective storage management.
Formation of Calcium‐Mediated Junction Zones at the Onset of the Sol‐Gel Transition of Commercial κ‐Carrageenan Solutions
Authors: Nickerson Michael T. , Darvesh Rozina , Paulson Allan T.
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT:  Gelling temperatures of commercial κ‐carrageenan solutions were measured using dynamic oscillatory shear rheometry, in response to varying polymer (0.4% to 1.6%, w/w) and added Ca2+ (5 to 20 mM) salts. Gelling temperatures were found to shift to higher temperatures with increased polymer and Ca2+ concentration. The Tang model was used to estimate the number of Ca2+‐mediated cross‐links formed with κ‐carrageenan at the onset of junction zone formation. Based on this model, 6 κ‐carrageenan double helices were estimated to be cross‐linked by 5 Ca2+ ions through ionic bridging and electrostatic attraction, within a cross‐linking region equivalent to one pitch of the double helix.
Effect of Nano‐Packing on Preservation Quality of Fresh Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch. cv Fengxiang) during Storage at 4 °C
Authors: Yang F.M. , Li H.M. , Li F. , Xin Z.H. , Zhao L.Y. , Zheng Y.H. , Hu Q.H.
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT:  A novel nano‐packing material with lower relative humidity, oxygen transmission rate and high longitudinal strength was synthesized by blending polyethylene with nano‐powder (nano‐Ag, kaolin, anatase TiO2, rutile TiO2), and its effect on preservation quality of strawberry fruits (Fragaria ananassa Duch. cv Fengxiang) was investigated during storage at 4 °C. Results showed that nano‐packaging was able to maintain the sensory, physicochemical, and physiological quality of strawberry fruits at a higher level compared with the normal packing (polyethylene bags). After a 12‐d storage, decreases in the contents of total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and ascorbic acid of nano‐packing were significantly inhibited. Meanwhile, decay rate, anthocyanin, and malondialdehyde contents were decreased to 16.7%, 26.3 mg/100g, 66.3 μmol/g for nano‐packing and 26.8%, 31.9 mg/100g, 75.4 μmol/g for normal packing; polyphenoloxidase (PPO) and pyrogallol peroxidase (POD) activities were significantly lower in nano‐packing than the control. These data indicated that the nano‐packaging might provide an attractive alternative to improve preservation quality of the strawberry fruits during extended storage.

Practical Application: Nano‐packing exhibited identified quality benefits applicable to the preservation of fresh strawberry. Furthermore, nano‐packing has the advantages of simple processing and feasibility to be industrialized in contrast with other storages. Thus, the utilization of nano‐packing will likely assist commercial producers and retailers in extending the shelf life of products over a broader range in the future.
Stabilizing Smoked Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) Tissue after Extraction of Oil
Authors: Bower Cindy , Hietala Katie
Published: February 2010

ABSTRACT:  Alaska salmon oils are rich in n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and are highly valued by the food and pharmaceutical industries. However, the tissue that remains after oil extraction does not have an established market. Discarded pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) tissues were preserved using a combination of smoke‐processing and acidification with lactic acid bacteria (LAB). All samples were analyzed for moisture, protein, ash, and lipid contents. Bacterial cell counts, pH, and lactic acid concentrations were recorded as a measure of LAB viability. Neither raw nor smoked salmon were free from spoilage during 60 d of storage. Only fermented samples successfully stabilized below pH 4.7, while retaining lactic acid concentrations over 15 g/L during storage. When smoked, fermented salmon head tissues were dried, the pH of the resulting high‐protein “cracker” was significantly lower than when crackers were prepared only from the smoked (but not fermented) salmon material. Both cracker varieties retained valuable polyunsaturated fatty acids. This research suggests that salmon‐head tissues discarded after oil extraction represent a good source of protein and high‐value fatty acids in a shelf‐stable form.

Practical Application: Alaska salmon oils are rich in n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and are highly valued by the food and pharmaceutical industries. However, the tissue that remains after oil extraction does not have an established market. Material produced from salmon tissue discarded after oil extraction may represent a valuable resource for preparing high‐protein crackers and other fish‐based food products. In addition to providing a unique smoke‐flavoring, the smoked, fermented fish material may also impart antioxidant factors thereby extending the shelf life of the product.
Role of Helicobacter pylori infection in gastric cancer pathogenesis: A chance for prevention
Authors: MALFERTHEINER Peter , BORNSCHEIN Jan , SELGRAD Michael
Published: February 2010

Gastric cancer in the absence of strategies implemented for early detection continues to have a dismal prognosis. There are limited options for a curative therapy once patients present with clinical manifestations of this malignant disease. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection plays a key role in gastric carcinogenesis, supported by epidemiological, preclinical and clinical studies. The recognition of H. pylori infection as a critical risk factor in the development of gastric cancer opens the chance for new venues in prevention strategies.
Late presentation of esophageal cancer: Observations in a multiracial South–East Asian population
Authors: ABDULLAH Muhammad , KARIM Adil Abdel , GOH Khean‐Lee
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:  Esophageal cancer (ECA) is an important cancer in Malaysia. The aim of the study is to review the demographic data and clinical presentation of patients with ECA seen at the University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur.

METHODS:  Patients with histologically proven ECA were recruited for the study. Patients' case notes, endoscopy and operating theater records were reviewed. All cases were histologically confirmed.

RESULTS:  A total of 143 patients with ECA was diagnosed between 1998 and 2003. The mean age of the patients was 63.1 ± 12.1 years with a male : female ratio of 1.8:1. Of these 50.3 percent were Indians, 32.9 percent, Chinese and 16.8 percent Malays. The overall hospital‐based prevalence rates per 100 000 admissions according to races were: Malay; 23.5, Chinese; 57.4 and Indian; 134.1. The location of the tumors was: upper; 16 (11.2%) middle; 52 (36.4%) and lower; 75 (52.4%). The histological type of ECA were: squamous cell carcinomas; 113 (79.0%) and adenocarcinomas; 30 (21.0%). The ECA stage at diagnosis, was: II; 18 (12.6%), III; 23 (16.1%) and IV; 102 (71.3%). Only 24 (16.8%) patients underwent surgery and13 (9.1%) were considered curative. Overall 114 (79.7%) patients underwent palliative endoscopic stenting and six (4.2%) were given other palliative therapy including radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS:  Squamous cell cancer was the predominant type. ECA presents late in our patients and only a minority of patients underwent curative surgery.
Initial study of microRNA expression profiles of colonic cancer without lymph node metastasis
Authors: WANG Ying Xin , ZHANG Xiao Yan , ZHANG Bao Feng , YANG Chang Qing , CHEN Xi Mei , GAO Heng Jun
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:  To investigate the difference of microRNA expression profiles between colonic cancer without lymph node metastasis and the para‐cancerous control, to identify the specific microRNA associated with the cancer and to predict the carcinogenetic mechanism of microRNA on the basis of these results.

METHODS:  The microRNA (miRNA) were extracted and isolated from six specimens, including colonic cancerous and para‐cancerous ones, all of which were confirmed to be without lymph node metastasis. Agilent microRNA microarrays consisting of 723 probes were used for screening the expression differences of microRNA. Data were analyzed using feature extraction software. The expression level of differentially expressed microRNA using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was validated.

RESULTS:  A total of 14 miRNAs were found to be associated with colonic cancer, in which the expression of miR‐106b, miR‐135b, miR‐18a, miR‐18b, miR‐196b, miR‐19a, miR‐224, miR‐335, miR‐424, miR‐20a*, miR‐301b and miR‐374a were up‐regulated and the expression of miR‐378 and miR‐378* were downregulated in colonic cancer tissues, compared with the para‐cancerous control. The expression level of miR‐18a and miR‐135b were validated in accordance with the results of RT‐PCR.

CONCLUSION:  The miRNAs are differentially expressed between colonic tumor tissues and para‐cancerous tissues. Many of these miRNAs are expected to participate in the process of multiple tumorigenesis. These miRNAs could play an important role in the carcinogenesis of colon. These results provide new insights in human colorectal cancer genesis.
Endoscopic closure of acute iatrogenic perforations during diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy in the gastrointestinal tract using metallic clips: A literature review
Authors: MANGIAVILLANO Benedetto , VIAGGI Paolo , MASCI Enzo
Published: February 2010

Iatrogenic perforations that occur during the endoscopic procedures are generally surgically managed, even if some authors prefer a non‐surgical approach in selected cases. The endoscopic application of metallic clips has been widely used in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract for hemostasis and also for marking lesions. Since 1993 several series of endoscopic perforations treated with endoclips have been described in the literature. In this review we offer a descriptive analysis of the reported cases of the acute iatrogenic perforation, describing the closure of different perforations occurring in the GI tract, treated with metallic clips.
SIRT3 reduces lipid accumulation via AMPK activation in human hepatic cells
Authors: SHI Tong , FAN Guo Quan , XIAO Shu Dong
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:  Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) is a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)+‐dependent protein deacetylase localized on mitochondria and regulates the adaptive thermogenesis in brown adipocytes. This study aims to investigate the role of SIRT3 in hepatic lipid accumulation, and whether the activation of adenosine monophosphate (AMP)‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is required.

METHODS:  A retroviral system was used for overexpressing of SIRT3 in HepG2 cells, whereas a lentivirus‐mediated vector encoding SIRT3 small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to infect these cells for knocking down endogenous SIRT3 expression. The cells were treated with oleate to induce lipid accumulation and Nile red staining was used to assess the number of lipid droplets in HepG2 cells. The AMPK signaling pathway was facilitated with the administrating of isoproterenol and an immunoblot analysis was performed to assess the phosphorylation of AMPK and acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC). Compound C was adopted to inhibit AMPK activity.

RESULTS:  The number of lipid droplets in HepG2 cells overexpressing SIRT3 was significantly lower than that in the control cells (P < 0.05). SIRT3‐infected cells exhibited significantly more phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC (P < 0.05), which was reversed by the treatment of compound C, an inhibitor of AMPK. Knocking down SIRT3 downregulated phosphorylation of AMPK and ACC by 60–80% (P < 0.05) and promoted lipid accumulation. The activation of AMPK by SIRT3 was dependent on SIRT3 deacetylase activity.

CONCLUSION:  SIRT3 reduces lipid accumulation via AMPK activation in human hepatic cells.
Endoscopic surgical skill qualification system in Japan: Five years of experience in the gastrointestinal field
Authors: Kimura T , Mori T , Konishi F , Kitajima M
Published: February 2010

Introduction: To reduce the complications of endoscopic surgery, the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery formed a committee that established the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System (ESSQS). Here we report on the methods employed and results obtained with the ESSQS over five years in the field of gastrointestinal surgery.

Methods: The first ESSQS review was performed in 2004, and examinations have been conducted once a year since then. Applicants must submit a list of patients on whom they have performed surgery (including complications) and an unedited video showing one of the relevant surgical procedures. To assess the applicants' videos, the judging committee prepared “common criteria” (60 points) and “procedure‐specific criteria” (40 points). Assessment of videos was done independently by two judges, and the applicant passed the test if both judges assigned a score of 70 points or more.

Results: There have been 1369 applicants, and 641 (46.8%) have been successful. The main problem with this system has been a relatively low rate of agreement between the two judges (κ value: 0.29–0.40). However, the incidence of complications is significantly lower in patients treated by successful applicants (4.3±6.8%) than in those treated by failed applicants (5.6±8.4%) (P=0.0096).

Conclusion: Although the ESSQS could be further improved, this system promotes training and decreases complications.
Magnetic soft x-ray imaging of vortex core dynamics
Authors: Mesler Brooke L. , Buchanan Kristen , Im Mi-Young , Anderson Erik , Fischer Peter
Published: February 2010

Soft x-ray microscopy offers high spatial and temporal resolution imaging with element specific magnetic contrast. As such, it is an ideal method for studying nanoscale spin dynamics, such as vortex core dynamics. At XM-1, the full field soft x-ray transmission microscope at the Advanced Light Source in Berkeley, a technique has been developed for pinpointing vortex dynamics without time resolution. In addition, a phase-locked setup has been used to conduct time resolved experiments of vortex core dynamics. The samples in this study were 100nm thick, 2μm diameter Ni80Fe20 disks. Analysis of nontime resolved images suggested that resonant vortex core dynamics were excited by ac magnetic fields close to 340MHz. This behavior was confirmed with time resolved imaging and gyrotropic motion of the vortex core was observed.
Sr flux stability against oxidation in oxide-molecular-beam-epitaxy environment: Flux, geometry, and pressure dependence
Authors: Kim Y. S. , Bansal Namrata , Chaparro Carlos , Gross Heiko , Oh Seongshik
Published: February 2010

Maintaining stable fluxes for multiple source elements is a challenging task when the source materials have significantly different oxygen affinities in a complex-oxide molecular-beam-epitaxy (MBE) environment. Considering that Sr is one of the most easily oxidized and widely used elements in various complex oxides, we took Sr as a probe to investigate the flux-stability problem in a number of different conditions. Source oxidation was less for higher flux, extended port geometry, and unmelted source shape. The extended port geometry also eliminated the flux transient after opening a source shutter as observed in the standard port. We also found that the source oxidation occurred more easily on the crucible wall than on the surface of the source material. Atomic oxygen, in spite of its stronger oxidation effectiveness, did not make any difference in source oxidation as compared to molecular oxygen in this geometry. Our results may provide a guide for solutions to the source oxidation problem in oxide-MBE system.
Inducing CTLA-4–Dependent Immune Regulation by Selective CD28 Blockade Promotes Regulatory T Cells in Organ Transplantation
Authors: Poirier Nicolas , Azimzadeh Agnes M. , Zhang Tianshu , Dilek Nahzli , Mary Caroline , Nguyen Bao , Tillou Xavier , Wu Guosheng , Reneaudin Karine , Hervouet Jeremy , Martinet Bernard , Coulon Flora , Allain-Launay Emma , Karam Georges , Soulillou Jean-Paul , Pierson Richard N. , Blancho Gilles , Vanhove Bernard
Published: February 2010

An improved method of immunosuppression allows better immune function and prolongs the survival of transplanted organs in nonhuman primates.
Moms and the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Bremer Andrew A.
Published: February 2010

A new study investigates the effects of caloric restriction of mothers during breast-feeding on the metabolic phenotype of offspring.
Ovarian Cancer Going Viral
Authors: Hansel Donna E.
Published: February 2010

Use of the measles virus may provide a new treatment option for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.
Growing Blood Vessels in Cardiac Grafts
Authors: Ng Kenneth W.
Published: February 2010

Tissue patches for injured hearts develop more blood vessels if they are made from both cardiac and vascular precursor cells.
Diversity and distribution of the prokaryotic community in near-surface permafrost sediments in the Tianshan Mountains, China
Authors: Yang Daqun , Wang Jianhui , Bai Yu , Xu Shijian , An Lizhe
Published: February 2010

The community structures and diversity of bacteria and archaea were investigated at 4 depths (1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 m) in permafrost sediments in the Tianshan Mountains, using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis of 16S rRNA gene amplified by polymerase chain reaction. Phylogenetic analysis of the dominant bands sequenced revealed the presence of rich diversity of bacteria, which could be related to the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Chloroflexi. The Proteobacteria, consisting of the α, β, γ, and ε subdivisions, were clearly the dominant group at all depths studied. Archaeal diversity was relatively low and archaeal 16S rRNA gene sequences were grouped into 3 phylogenetic clusters within the 2 kingdoms Euryarchaeota and Crenarchaeota. Within the Euryarchaeota, methanogen-related group II was most abundant at shallow depth (1.5 m), whereas halobacterium-related group I dominated at greater depths. The low-temperature Crenarchaeota group was detected only at 2.5 and 3.0 m. Specific-depth distribution of methanogen-related Euryarchaeota group II and denitrifying bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas dominated at 1.5 m depth, accompanied by a distinct peak in the ratio of NH4-N to NO3/NO2-N, implying the potential capacity of these organisms in near-surface permafrost to release the greenhouse gases N2O and CH4.
attG and attC mutations of Agrobacterium tumefaciens are dominant negative mutations that block attachment and virulence
Authors: Matthysse Ann G. , Jaeckel Peter , Jeter Cecelia
Published: February 2010

The cryptic plasmid (pAT) of Agrobacterium tumefaciens was not required for virulence or attachment to plant surfaces. However, mutations in the attC and attG genes located on pAT caused the bacteria to become avirulent and nonattaching on tomato, carrot, and Bryophyllum daigremontiana . This was the case whether the mutation was in the copy of the genes located on pAT or whether it was carried in a second copy of the attA-G operon located on a plasmid in cells that contained a wild-type copy of pAT. Thus attC and attG mutations are dominant negative mutations. The mechanism by which these mutations block attachment and virulence is unknown.
Identification of novelhorA-harbouring bacteria capable of spoiling beer
Authors: Haakensen Monique , Ziola Barry
Published: February 2010

An ATP-binding cassette (ABC) multi-drug resistance (MDR) gene was found in 4 Gram-positive bacterial isolates of environmental origin and found capable of spoiling beer. The bacteria isolated were Bacillus cereus , Bacillus licheniformis , Paenibacillus humicus , and Staphylococcus epidermidis ; all of which were previously unappreciated as beer-spoilage bacteria. The MDR gene found in these bacteria has less than 37% similarity to known ABC MDR proteins described for Bacillus and Staphylococcus , and this is the first finding of an ABC MDR gene in the genus Paenibacillus . The sequenced region of the gene was translated and compared phylogenetically with the closest GenBank matches of the respective species and the closest GenBank matches overall. The ABC MDR proteins from these isolates were found to cluster among known sequences of HorA, sharing 99.5% identity within the sequenced region. In the beer-spoilage-associated genera Lactobacillus and Pediococcus , the presence of the MDR gene horA correlates with the ability to grow in beer. As the unique horA-harbouring isolates described here are capable of growing in beer, it is likely that the presence of the horA gene likewise confers hop resistance to these organisms.
Pyomelanin is produced by Shewanella algae BrY and affected by exogenous iron
Authors: Turick Charles E. , Caccavo Frank , Tisa Louis S.
Published: February 2010

Melanin production by Shewanella algae BrY occurred during late- and (or) post-exponential growth in lactate basal salts liquid medium supplemented with tyrosine or phenylalanine. The antioxidant ascorbate inhibited melanin production but not production of the melanin precursor homogentisic acid. In the absence of ascorbate, melanin production was inhibited by the 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase inhibitor sulcotrione and by concentrations of Fe ≥ 0.38 mmol·L–1. These data support the hypothesis that pigment production by S. algae BrY was a result of the conversion of tyrosine or phenylalanine to homogentisic acid, which was excreted, auto-oxidized, and self-polymerized to form pyomelanin. Pyomelanin production by S. algae BrY may play an important role in the biogeochemical cycling of Fe in the environment.
Anti-Inflammatory Function of Nodosin via Inhibition of IL-2
Authors: Li Jiyu , Du Junming , Sun Lijuan , Liu Jianwen , Quan Zhiwei
Published: February 2010

In order to explore the anti-inflammatory effects of Nodosin from Isodon serra, a traditional Chinese herb medicine, mouse T lymphocytes were incubated with Nodosin. In the current study, Nodosin suppressed the overproduction of the T lymphocytes; moreover, cell mitosis cycle was modulated by interfering with DNA replication in G1 stages via inhibition of IL-2 cytokine secretion at the mRNA level by Nodosin. Interestingly, Xylene-induced mouse tumescence model results suggested Nodosin depressed the murine ear-swelling extent and the level of IL-2 in the blood serum. Finally, Nodosin possessed significant anti-inflammatory effects and is a potential candidate for further clinical trial.
Comparison of Puerariae Radix and Its Hydrolysate on Stimulation of Hyaluronic Acid Production in NHEK Cells
Authors: Wen Kuo-Ching , Lin Shiuan-Pey , Yu Chung-Ping , Chiang Hsiu-Mei
Published: February 2010

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is present in high concentrations in the intercellular spaces of the epidermis and the connective tissues of the dermis. It is associated with many beneficial biological activities including water retention, maintenance of various cellular functions, and skin homeostasis. Puerariae Radix (PR), a Chinese herb and a popular food in Asia, is used for various medicinal purposes including anti-hypertension, anti-angina pectoris and anti-dipsotropic. PR is rich in isoflavone glycosides like genistin and daidzin as soya. In this study, Bifidobactericum breve CCRC 14061 and CCRC 11846 were used for the fermentation of PR; moreover, acid was used to hydrolyze PR decoction. Genistein and daidzein in the hydrolysate were determined by HPLC. The HA production in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) was measured after 48 hours incubation with PR and its hydrolysate, respectively. HA was assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and retinoic acid was used as the positive control. After fermentation with Bifidobactericum breve, the contents of daidzein and genistein were increased 785% and 1,010% by CCRC 14061, and 192% and 406% by CCRC 11846, respectively, whereas after acid hydrolysis, only daidzein was increased by 990%. The production of HA in NHEK was increased after incubation with the fermentation product of CCRC 14061, acid hydrolysate, PR decoction and retinoic acid (22± 0.2%), whereas no increase of HA concentration was found after incubation with the fermentation product of CCRC 11846. Furthermore, the PR hydrolysate stimulated the HA production of NHEK, and the effect was dose-dependent (18.6%–83.9%). In conclusion, PR preparations would stimulate HA production in NHEK cells which might be used as a new cosmetic ingredient in moisturizers and an anti-aging agent.
Purification, Characterization and Immuno-Modulating Properties of Polysaccharides Isolated fromFlammulina velutipesMycelium
Authors: Yin Hongping , Wang Ying , Wang Yufeng , Chen Tao , Tang Huiling , Wang Min
Published: February 2010

To investigate the immuno-modulating activity of Flammulina velutipes mycelium, three different Flammulina velutipes polysaccharides (FVPs) were isolated by fractionation using gel filtration and were identified as the immunomodulators of murine peritoneal macrophages. Based on the results of fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), NMR spectroscopy, methylation analysis and gas chromatography-mass spectrogram (GC–MS), FVP2C was identified as glucose, galactose, mannose and fucose in molar ratio of 100: 14: 7: 4. FVP2C, molecular weight of 27.3 × 103Da , was characterized as α-D-(1→4)-glucan which was highly branched with α-D-(1→6)-glucosyl residues, a single galactose or small amounts of mannoses and fucose at the C-6 position every twelve residues, on average, along the main chain. In the present study, it was found that three FVPs induced a significant increase in cellular nitric oxide formation, interleukin-1 production and tumor necrosis factor-α secretion in macrophages in vitro. The immuno-modulating activity of FVP2A, FVP2B and FVP2C was dose-dependent.
Effects of a Flavonoid Extract from Cynomorium songaricum on the Swimming Endurance of Rats
Authors: Yu Fa-Rong , Liu Ying , Cui Yong-Zhi , Chan Er-Qing , Xie Ming-Ren , McGuire Peter P. , Yu Fa-Hong
Published: February 2010

The present study investigated the effects of a flavonoid extract from Cynomorium songaricum on the swimming endurance of rats by measuring changes of free radical scavenging enzymes, such as CuZn-SOD (copper, zinc-superoxide dismutase) and GSH-px (glutathione peroxidase), and body weights. Significant and dose-dependent antioxidant and anti-fatigue effects of flavonoids (rutin, catechin and isoquercitrin) on swimming rats were observed during 10 days of swimming exercise. After treatment with the flavonoid extract at doses of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg body weight, the CuZn-SOD and GSH-px activities in swimming rats were increased by 1.4%, 3.3%, 4.1% and 112.2%, 208.7%, 261.7%, respectively, while the levels of MDA (malondialdehyde) were decreased by 64.7%, 79.4%, and 86.4% respectively. Furthermore, the average body weight and the total swimming time were increased by 3.1%, 8.8%, 10.6%, and 7.7%, 34.5%, 61.5%, respectively. Our experimental results suggest that flavonoid supplementation could not only reduce free radical formation and scavenge free radicals, but also enhance endurance exercise performance by reducing muscle fatigue.
MOLECULAR INTERACTION STUDY OF N-BENZYLFORMAMIDE WITH 1-ALCOHOLS USING X-BAND MICROWAVE
Authors: MANJUNATH M. S. , SANNAPPA J.
Published: February 2010

The secondary amide unit is a subject of particular interest, because of its occurrence in peptides and proteins. Molecular interaction between N-benzylformamide (NBF) with 1-alcohols (1-propanol, 1-butanol, 1-pentanol) has been studied in carbon tetrachloride by using X-band microwave bench at 936 GHz. Dielectric constant (ε') and dielectric loss (ε″) of alcohol and NBF and their binary mixture for different mole fractions of NBF have been determined. Dielectric relaxation time (τ) of the binary system is obtained by both Higasi's method and the Gopalakrishna single-frequency concentration variational method. The results show that the most likely interaction between alcohols and NBF is 1:1 complex for binary mixture through the free hydroxyl group of the alcohol and the carbonyl group of NBF. The alkyl chain-length of both alcohol and amide plays an important role in the determination of the strength of hydrogen bond ( O – H : C = O ) formed. The variation of relaxation time of NBF+1-alcohol mixtures in CCl4indicates a weak solute-solvent type of molecular association. The result shows that as the relaxation time of the proton acceptor increases, the donating ability of the solute environment increase.
SOME NEW FEATURES IN THE ULTRACOLD COEXISTING ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR CONDENSATES
Authors: SINHA ROY M. N.
Published: February 2010

The dynamics of the coexisting ultracold atomic and molecular condensates in the presence of Feshbach resonance, atom–atom, molecule–molecule and atom–molecule interactions is described in terms of coupled Gross–Pitaevskii equation. We show that the appearence of oscillation or the existence of Josephson-like currents in the condensates is the natural consequence of the Gross–Pitaevskii equation under a suitable approximation regarding the nature of the condensate wave function.
THE ORIGIN OF FERROMAGNETISM IN Ni-DOPED ZnO AND SnO2
Authors: FELNER I. , HERBER R. , ACHARYA SOMOBRATA , AWANA V. P. S.
Published: February 2010

We present a detailed study of the ferromagnetism in nano- Ni -doped SnO 2 and ZnO . It is shown that the ferromagnetic behavior is not an intrinsic property of the systems but rather associated with the presence of n Ni particles in both matrices. The ferromagnetic transition of all Ni -doped samples is at 631(2) K, the same as the TC value for bulk Ni and nano- Ni powder. The saturation moments of the nano- Ni -doped samples scale with the Ni concentration and are much lower than that of pure Ni . This is due to the large surface area of nano- Ni particles which are partially oxidized due to nano- NiO . 119 Sn Mössbauer spectroscopy studies on Sn 0.96 Ni 0.04 O 2 do not show any transferred hyperfine field on the Sn nuclei, confirming that the magnetic properties stem from a different phase.
RIBBON 2-KNOTS WITH SYMMETRIC UNION PRESENTATIONS
Authors: TANAKA TOSHIFUMI
Published: February 2010

A symmetric union of a knot is a generalization of the operation of the connected sum of a knot and its mirror image. In this paper, we show that every ribbon 2-knot of 1-fusion has a ribbon presentation associated with a symmetric union which has either the unknot or a 2-bridge knot as a partial knot.
COMPLEXITY OF OPEN BOOK DECOMPOSITIONS VIA ARC COMPLEX
Authors: SAITO TOSHIO , YAMAMOTO RYOSUKE
Published: February 2010

Based on Hempel's distance of a Heegaard splitting, we define a certain kind of complexity of an open book decomposition, called a translation distance, by using the arc complex of its fiber surface. We then show that an open book decomposition is of translation distance at most two if it is split into "simpler" open book decompositions, or at most three if it admits a Stallings twist on it.
A MODIFIED TECHNIQUE OF INTERPOSITIONAL ARTHROPLASTY IN TREATING THE BASAL JOINT ARTHRITIS OF THE THUMB IN A CHINESE POPULATION
Authors: Wong Tak-Chuen , Ip Fu-Keung
Published: February 2010

We performed a retrospective review of 22 thumbs in 22 Chinese patients attending for the basal joint arthritis of the thumb over the last 14 years. There were 16 women and six men with a mean age of 50 years old. All were treated surgically by partial trapeziectomy and volar oblique ligament reconstruction with flexor carpi radialis tendon and interpositional arthroplasty with a free palmaris longus tendon ball after failure of conservative treatment. The mean follow-up time was 48 months. Radiographs did not show any differences in the arthroplasty space index, arthroplasty space, trapezial space ratio and scaphoid-thumb metacarpal distance at the pre-operative evaluation and at the final follow-up evaluation. There was significant difference in the pain score, grip strength, Kapandji score and functional status before and after surgery at final follow-up period. One patient had complex regional pain syndrome which was resolved after receiving a course of anti-inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy. The authors suggest that the modified technique of partial trapeziectomy with tendon interpositional arthroplasty is a safe and effective method in treating basal joint arthritis of the thumb with good short term functional and radiological outcomes and minimal complication.
PERCUTANEOUS PINNING OF THE DISPLACED VOLAR PLATE AVULSION FRACTURE OF THE PIP JOINT
Authors: Ikeda Masayoshi , Ishii Takayuki , Kobayashi Yuka , Mochida Joji , Saito Ikuo , Oka Yoshinori
Published: February 2010

The use of operative or non-operative techniques in the treatment of a volar plate avulsion fracture of the PIP joint has remained controversial. In this study, we describe the use of percutaneous K-wire fixation in 15 patients with a displaced and rotated large fragment of this injury. All processes of the technique, including reduction and interfragmental fixation, were performed with percutaneous K-wires. Mean follow-up was 14.2 months. All patients achieved bony union. Mean active motion was -1.3°/86.2° for the PIP joint and 0°/77.5° for the DIP joint and mean %TAIM was 94.6%. There were no complications. No patients complained of pain and all were able to return to their previous activity. Although this procedure is technically demanding, it reconstructs a rotated or displaced large volar plate avulsion with a low level of invasion, and achieves a satisfactory functional recovery.
ATYPICAL GLOMUS TUMOUR OF THE WRIST: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Chim Harvey , Lahiri Amitabha , Chew Winston Y. C.
Published: February 2010

Wrist glomus tumours are extremely rare. We report a case of an unusually large wrist glomus tumour with atypical presentation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings correlated well to those previously described for digital glomus tumours. This rare differential should be considered when evaluating lesions around the wrist.
CLOSED FLEXOR PULLEY RUPTURE OF THE THUMB: CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Authors: Kosiyatrakul Arkaphat , Jitprapaikulsarn Surasak , Durand Sebastien , Oberlin Christophe
Published: February 2010

Closed flexor pulley rupture of the thumb is extremely rare. We report a case with this condition. The anatomic and biomechanical studies, clinical and operative finding as well as the management of the closed flexor pulley rupture of the thumb are discussed.
APPARENT VISI DEFORMITY: PERISCAPHOID PERILUNATE DISSOCIATION — A CASE REPORT
Authors: Tatebe Masahiro , Hirata Hitoshi , Koh Shukuki , Shinohara Takaaki
Published: February 2010

We report a case of carpal instability complex, which presented apparent volar intercalated segmental instability (VISI) caused by acute injury. Proper diagnosis and treatment by ligament repair and Kirschner wire fixation yielded good clinical results.
UNUSUAL PATTERN OF DISLOCATION OF THE TRAPEZIOMETACARPAL JOINT WITH AVULSION FRACTURE OF THE TRAPEZIUM: CASE REPORT
Authors: Morizaki Yutaka , Miura Toshiki
Published: February 2010

Dislocation of the trapeziometacarpal joint is a rare injury. We report an unusual pattern of dorsal dislocation of the trapeziometacarpal joint with an avulsion fracture of the dorsoradial tubercle of the trapezium. Simultaneous ligament rupture with an avulsion fracture of the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint was associated. The trapeziometacarpal joint was reduced and disrupted ligaments with avulsed fragments of both joints were surgically repaired.
EFFECT OF MULTI-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES ON VIABILITY AND SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE EXPRESSION IN HUMAN WOUND PATHOGENS
Authors: SAXENA SANJAI , GOMBER CHARU , RAINA K. K.
Published: February 2010

Recently, a wide variety of bionanocomposites and biocomposites are being developed to be used as extracellular matrix for chronic wound healing. Majority of the chronic wound situations arise due to infections caused by drug-resistant microbes like Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In particular S. aureus has become refractory to the current armamentarium of antimicrobial drugs. Therefore, it is imperative while designing nanobiocomposites for use as extracellular matrices to profile their antimicrobial activity. MWNT (multi-wall carbon nanotube) has been exploited previously in designing biocompatible nanocomposite for medical applications. Keeping in view, we studied the antimicrobial effect of MWNT on human clinical burn/wound pathogens, which were Methicillin-resistant Staphylococci and one Vancomycin intermediate Staphylococcus isolate. We also studied E. coli NCTC 10418 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCTC 10662, two surrogate gram negative microbes to understand their behavior in the presence of MWNT. Apart from reduction in viable counts of the test panel, organism's extracellular expression of the enzyme Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was also taken into account as this is the probable mechanism adopted by bacteria in general to survive and sustain under nutritional and other stress situation including pathogenesis. The present study indicated that all Staphylococcal isolates were susceptible to MWNT which reduced the bacterial count between 3–9 logs barring Sau G19 which only exhibited 1 log reduction. Sau G17, Sau G18, and Sau G19 expressed a higher SOD activity, Sau G9 exhibited a lower SOD expression and in Sau G16, the SOD expression was nearly the same as compared to control. Thus, from this study, it could be inferred that MWNT, apart from being antimicrobial, induces oxidative stress on S. aureus.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF AURIVILLIUS-PHASE Bi4Srn-3TinO3n+3 (n = 3 AND 4) NANOFERROELECTRIC CERAMICS
Authors: SRIDHARANE R. , KALYIAPPAN T. , SUBRAMANIAN S. , MURUGAN R.
Published: February 2010

Bi4Ti3O12 (BIT) and Bi4SrTi4O15 (BIST) ceramics with particle sizes of approximately 36 and 27 nm, respectively, have been successfully prepared by a new poly(ethylene glycol methacrylate-co-acrylic acid)-based copolymerization method. XRD, FTIR, and Raman investigations on the BIT and BIST samples revealed that the phase pure nanosized ferroelectric samples were obtained relatively at lower temperatures compared to other techniques. The phase transition temperatures and the peak dielectric constant observed at the Curie temperatures for nano-sized BIT and BIST samples obtained in this work are higher than that of conventional ceramic samples with micrometer grain size.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATIONS OF Al(OH)3 AND Mg(OH)2 IN THE PRESENCE OF POLY(VINYL ALCOHOL)
Authors: ANBARASAN R. , BARSANA BANU B. , INIGO M. , SHARMILA BANU N. , JEGADHEESWARI R. , JAYALAKSHMI T. , DHANALAKSHMI V.
Published: February 2010

Nanosized metal hydroxides are synthesized in the presence of Poly(vinyl alcohol). Polymer controls the size and growth of the nanometal hydroxides. PVA-assisted synthesis of metal hydroxides is characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, and HRTEM methods. This method of synthesis is an eco-friendly and economically viable method.
Insulin attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury via reducing oxidative/nitrative stress
Authors: Ji Lele , Fu Feng , Zhang Lihua , Liu Wenchong , Cai Xiaoqing , Zhang Lei , Zheng Qiangsun , Zhang Haifeng , Gao Feng
Published: February 2010

It is well known that insulin possesses a cardioprotective effect and that insulin resistance is closely related to cardiovascular diseases. Peroxynitrite (ONOO−) formation may trigger oxidative/nitrative stress and represent a major cytotoxic effect in heart diseases. This study was designed to investigate whether insulin attenuates ONOO− generation and oxidative/nitrative stress in acute myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R). Adult male rats were subjected to 30 min of myocardial ischemia and 3 h of reperfusion. Rats randomly received vehicle, insulin, or insulin plus wortmannin. Arterial blood pressure and left ventricular pressure were monitored throughout the experiment. Insulin significantly improved cardiac functions and reduced myocardial infarction, apoptotic cell death, and blood creatine kinase/lactate dehydrogenase levels following MI/R. Myocardial ONOO− formation was significantly attenuated after insulin treatment. Moreover, insulin resulted in a significant increase in Akt and endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation, NO production, and antioxidant capacity in ischemic/reperfused myocardial tissue. On the other hand, insulin markedly reduced MI/R-induced inducible NOS (iNOS) and gp91phox expression in cardiac tissue. Inhibition of insulin signaling with wortmannin not only blocked the cardioprotection of insulin but also markedly attenuated insulin-induced antioxidative/antinitrative effect. Furthermore, the suppression on ONOO− formation by either insulin or an ONOO− scavenger uric acid reduced myocardial infarct size in rats subjected to MI/R. We concluded that insulin exerts a cardioprotective effect against MI/R injury by blocking ONOO− formation. Increased physiological NO production (via eNOS phosphorylation) and superoxide anion reduction contribute to the antioxidative/antinitrative effect of insulin, which can be reversed by inhibiting phosphatidylinositol 3′-kinase. These results provide important novel information on the mechanisms of cardiovascular actions of insulin.
Overexpression of nuclear receptor SHP in adipose tissues affects diet-induced obesity and adaptive thermogenesis
Authors: Tabbi-Anneni Imene , Cooksey Robert , Gunda Viswanath , Liu Shiguo , Mueller Aubrey , Song Guisheng , McClain Donald A. , Wang Li
Published: February 2010

The orphan nuclear receptor small heterodimer partner (SHP) regulates metabolic pathways involved in hepatic bile acid production and both lipid and glucose homeostasis via the transcriptional repression of other nuclear receptors. In the present study, we generated fat-specific SHP-overexpressed transgenic (TG) mice and determined the potential role of SHP activation, specifically in adipocytes, in the regulation of adipose tissue function in response to stressors. We determined in 2 mo-old SHP TG mice body weight, fat mass index, adipose tissues morphology, thermogenic and metabolic gene expression, metabolic rates at baseline and in response to β adrenergic receptor agonists, and brown fat ultrastructural changes in response to cold exposure (6–48 h). Mice were fed a 10-wk high-fat diet (HFD; 42% fat). Weight gain, fat mass index, adipose tissues morphology, glucose tolerance, and metabolic rates were determined at the end of the feeding. Young TG mice had increased body weight and adiposity; however, their energy metabolism was increased and brown fat function was enhanced in response to cold exposure through the activation of thermogenic genes and mitochondrial biogenesis. SHP overexpression exacerbated the diet-induced obesity phenotype as evidence by marked weight gain over time, increased adiposity, and severe glucose intolerance compared with wild-type mice fed a HFD. In addition, SHP-TG mice fed HFD had decreased diet-induced adaptive thermogenesis, increased food intake, and decreased physical activity. In conclusion, SHP activation in adipocytes strongly affects weight gain and diet-induced obesity. Developing a synthetic compound to antagonize the effect of SHP may prove to be useful in treating obesity.