bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Class II major histocompatibility complex tetramer staining: progress, problems, and prospects
Authors: Vollers Sabrina S. , Stern Lawrence J.
Published: January 2008

The use of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) tetramers in the detection and analysis of antigen‐specific T cells has become more widespread since its introduction 11 years ago. Early challenges in the application of tetramer staining to CD4+T cells centred around difficulties in the expression of various class II MHC allelic variants and the detection of low‐frequency T cells in mixed populations. As many of the technical obstacles to class II MHC tetramer staining have been overcome, the focus has returned to uncertainties concerning how oligomer valency and T‐cell receptor/MHC affinity affect tetramer binding. Such issues have become more important with an increase in the number of studies relying on directex vivoanalysis of antigen‐specific CD4+T cells. In this review we discuss which problems in class II MHC tetramer staining have been solved to date, and which matters remain to be considered.
User behaviour towards protective information technologies: the role of national cultural differences
Authors: Dinev Tamara , Goo Jahyun , Hu Qing , Nam Kichan
Published: January 2008

Computer technologies that protect data and systems from viruses, unauthorized access, disruptions, spyware and other threats have become increasingly important in the globally networked economy and society. Yet little is known about user attitudes and behaviour towards this category of information technologies. Comparative studies across different cultures in this context are even rarer. In this study, we examine the cross‐cultural differences between South Korea and the United States in user behaviour towards protective information technologies. We develop a theoretical model of user behaviour based on the framework of the theory of planned behaviour and national cultural dimensions and indices. We posit that cultural factors moderate the strength of the relationships in the behavioural model in the context of protective information technologies. The model was then empirically tested using structural equation modelling techniques in conjunction with multi‐group analysis. Most of the hypothesized moderating effects of national cultural factors were found to be statistically significant. Our findings suggest that cultural factors should be considered in order to design effective information security policies, practices and technologies in global networks where multiple cultures coexist. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed.
Efficacy of three rotary NiTi instruments in removing gutta‐percha from root canals
Authors: Taşdemir T. , Er K. , Yildirim T. , Çelik D.
Published: January 2008

Aim  To investigate the ability of three rotary nickel–titanium instruments and hand instrumentation to remove gutta‐percha and sealer.

Methodology  Sixty freshly extracted human single‐rooted teeth, each with one root canal, were instrumented with K‐files and filled using cold lateral compaction of gutta‐percha and AH Plus (Dentsply Detrey, Konstanz, Germany) sealer. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups of 15 specimens each. Removal of gutta‐percha was performed with the following devices and techniques: ProTaper, R‐Endo, Mtwo and Hedström files. The specimens were rendered transparent and the area of remaining filling material on the root canal wall was measured using a computer image analysis program. Statistical analysis was accomplished by Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U‐tests with Bonferroni correction for the analysis of residual root filling material and working time.

Results  The ProTaper group had less filling material inside the root canals than the other groups, but a significant difference was found between only the ProTaper and Mtwo groups (P < 0.05). The retreatment time for Mtwo and ProTaper was significantly shorter compared with R‐Endo and manual instrumentation with Hedström files (P < 0.001). R‐Endo was significantly faster than manual instrumentation (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  Under the experimental conditions, ProTaper left significantly less gutta‐percha and sealer than Mtwo instruments. Complete removal of materials did not occur with any of the instrument systems investigated.
Clinical relevance of polymorphonuclear (PMN‐) elastase determination in semen and serum during infertility investigation
Authors: Eggert‐Kruse W. , Zimmermann K. , Geißler W. , Ehrmann A. , Boit R. , Strowitzki T.
Published: January 2008

The polymorphonuclear (PMN) elastase is secreted by activated granulocytes and is widely used as a marker of male accessory gland infection. However, the clinical value of routine determination of seminal plasma (SP) PMN elastase in asymptomatic patients during infertility investigation has not clearly been established and not much is known about the significance of PMN‐elastase levels in serum as a potential biochemical determinant associated with infection/inflammation of the male genital tract. This prospective study included a total of 221 asymptomatic males from unselected subfertile couples, to evaluate the relationship of (i) serum and (ii) same‐day SP PMN elastase concentrations with established semen quality parameters, including sperm functional capacity, local antisperm antibodies (ASA), seminal leucocytes, and the outcome of semen cultures including typical sexually transmitted disease pathogens, and a potential association with patients’ medical history and results of clinical andrological examination. Furthermore, couples were followed up for subsequent fertility (controlled for female infertility factors). The concentrations of PMN elastase in serum and in SP were not significantly related to semen quality [with regard to microscopic (e.g. count, motility, morphology) as well as biochemical parameters, and also to local ASA of the IgG‐ or IgA‐class]. There was no strong relationship with sperm functional capacity. No significant relationship with the outcome of the microbial screening was found. PMN‐elastase levels in serum and SP were not significantly correlated and there was no association with subsequent fertility. Therefore, the value of routine determination of PMN elastase in semen and/or serum samples, particularly when used as a single parameter to screen for subclinical infection/inflammation in males under infertility investigation is limited.
Developmental effects: oestrogen‐induced vaginal changes and organotin‐induced adipogenesis
Authors: Iguchi T. , Watanabe H. , Ohta Y. , Blumberg B.
Published: January 2008

The emerging paradigm, the foetal origin of adult disease, is a new framework for considering the effects of endocrine disrupters on human and animal health. Prenatal diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure resulted in various reproductive tract abnormalities in women, which is called as DES syndrome. Similar abnormalities have been demonstrated in experimental animals exposed perinatally to oestrogens. Developmental oestrogen exposure induces persistent proliferation of vaginal epithelial cells in mice. The persistent changes in the vagina of mice neonatally exposed to oestrogens results from persistent phosphorylation of erbB2 and oestrogen receptor α, sustained expression of EGF‐like growth factors and phosphorylation of JNK1, IGF‐I receptor and Akt. The ubiquitous environmental contaminant, tributyltin chloride (TBT) is well known to induce the development of male sex characteristics (imposex) in gastropods. We recently found that TBT and its congeners induce the differentiation of adipocytes in vitro and increase adipose mass in vivo in vertebrates. TBT is a nanomolar affinity ligand for retinoid X receptor (RXR) in the rock shell and for both the RXRα and the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in the amphibian (Xenopus laevis), mouse, and human. TBT promotes adipogenesis in the murine 3T3‐L1 cell model and perturbs key regulators of adipogenesis and lipogenic pathways in vivo, primarily through activation of RXRα and PPARγ. Moreover, in utero exposure to TBT leads to strikingly elevated lipid accumulation in adipose depots, liver, and testis of neonate mice and results in increased adipose mass in adults. In X. laevis, ectopic adipocytes form in and around gonadal tissues following organotin, RXRα or PPARγ ligand exposure. TBT represents the first example of an environmental endocrine disrupter that promotes adverse effects from gastropods to mammals. Prenatal (TBT) and early postnatal exposures (oestrogens) stand as strong examples of endocrine disrupting compounds that permanently alter developmental programming.
Physicochemical, textural, sensory characteristics and storage stability of goat meat patties extended with full‐fat soy paste and soy granules
Authors: Das Arun K. , Anjaneyulu Anne Sita Ram , Verma Arun K. , Kondaiah Napa
Published: January 2008

The performance of full‐fat soy paste (FFSP) with reduced beany flavour made by simple processing technology was compared with the commercially available textured soy granules in goat meat patties. Addition of soy proteins (soy paste and soy granules) did not significantly affect the emulsion stability and product yield. Shrinkage of patties with soy paste was comparable with control. A significant (P < 0.05) reduction in redness and increase in yellowness of patties was due to addition of soy proteins than in control. Patties with soy paste had comparable but slightly higher total lipid and cholesterol content with that of control but significantly (P < 0.05) higher than patties with soy granules. Lower force was required to compress or shear the sample, as hardness decreased in soy‐added patties. Flavour and overall acceptability scores between control and patties with soy paste did not differ significantly, whereas patties with soy granules were rated significantly lower. The patties remained stable with minor changes in physicochemical, microbiological and sensory quality during refrigerated storage (4 ± 1 °C) for 20 days. It is concluded from this study that FFSP had potential application similar to commercially available textured soy granules in comminuted meat products.
Production of zero trans Iranian vanaspati using chemical transesterification and blending techniques from palm olein, rapeseed and sunflower oils
Authors: Farmani Jamshid , Hamedi Manouchehr , Safari Mohammad
Published: January 2008

Chemical transesterification and blending techniques were used for producing zero trans fats suitable for use as Iranian vanaspati. Triple blends of palm olein (POo), rapeseed (RSO) and sunflower oil (SFO) were subjected to two different treatments: (i) blending and then transesterification (BT) and (ii) transesterification of pure POo before blending with RSO and SFO (TB). The changes in slip melting point (SMP), solid fat content (SFC), carbon number (CN) triacylglycerol (TAG) composition, induction period (IP) of oxidation at 120 °C and IP of crystallisation at 20 °C of blends before and after treatments were investigated. Both BT and TB methods resulted in an increase in the CN48 TAG molecules, SMP and SFC, and a decrease in the IP of oxidation and crystallisation of initial blends. Samples made by TB method had higher CN48 TAG content, SMP, SFC and IP of oxidation, and lower IP of crystallisation than those made by BT method. Correlation between SFC at 20 °C and saturated fatty acid (SFA) content of the treated blends indicated that the SFA must be higher than 33.1% and 26.8% for BT and TB methods, respectively, to obtain fats suitable for use as vanaspati.
Effect of irradiation on the antioxidative and antigenotoxic activities of a green tea leaf and stem extract
Authors: Jo Cheorun , Jeong Seok‐Moon , Kim Soo‐Yeon , Park Eunju , Lee Seung‐Cheol
Published: January 2008

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) leaf and stem extract, a major byproduct of the green tea industry, was investigated for its antioxidative and antigenotoxic activities after 20 kGy of irradiation.In vitroantioxidative activities, including 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, hydrogen peroxide inhibition, tyrosinase inhibition activities, and the reducing power were tested. Green tea leaf extract (GTLE) had higher antioxidative activities than the green tea stem extract (GTSE). Irradiation of 20 kGy to GTLE showed a decreasing tendency in DPPH radical, hydrogen peroxide‐scavenging activities, and reducing power, while that to GTSE showed an increasing tendency of the antioxidative activities. Tyrosinase inhibition activity showed no difference on irradiation, in GTLE and GTSE. Overall, irradiation had positive influences on the antioxidative activity in the GTSE more than in the GTLE. Antigenotoxic effect of the green tea extracts on an oxidative DNA damage in human leucocytes by a DNA comet assay also indicated a protective effect of GTLE. The irradiated GTLE began to decrease the DNA damage significantly at 10 μg mL−1, which showed a higher inhibition activity than the non‐irradiated GTLE. The non‐irradiated and irradiated GTSE showed similar inhibition trends and they were comparable with that of the GTLE. Results suggest that the extract of GTSE, a major byproduct of the green tea industry, can be considered as a cost‐effective functional ingredient for industrial applications. Furthermore, irradiation of the GTSE may have beneficial effects on its functional activity.
Complexation between milk proteins and polysaccharides via electrostatic interaction: principles and applications – a review
Authors: Ye Aiqian
Published: January 2008

This article details recent research conducted on the complexation between milk proteins and polysaccharides and the properties of the complexes, and the application of such relationships to the food industry. Complexation between proteins and polysaccharides through electrostatic interactions gives either soluble complexes in a stable solution or insoluble complexes, leading to phase separation. The formation and the stability of these complexes are influenced by pH, ionic strength, ratio of protein to polysaccharide, charge density of protein and polysaccharide as well as processing conditions (temperature, shearing and time). The functional properties of milk proteins, such as solubility, surface activity, conformational stability, gel‐forming ability, emulsifying properties and foaming properties, are improved through the formation of complexes with polysaccharides. These changes in the functional properties provide opportunities to create new ingredients for the food industry.
Simultaneous determination of trace amounts of vanadium and molybdenum in water and foodstuff samples using adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetry
Authors: Ensafi Ali A. , Khayamian Taghi , Khaloo Shokooh S.
Published: January 2008

A new procedure is presented for the simultaneous determination of ultra trace amounts of vanadium and molybdenum based on adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetry (AdCSV). Adsorptive accumulation of the V(V) and/or Mo(VI) with chromoxane cyanine R (CCR) onto a hanging mercury drop electrode, followed by reduction of the adsorbed species using differential pulse voltammetry method. Optimised conditions include a 60 s adsorption period at −0.10 V, 8.0 μm of CCR in 0.1 m acetate buffer, pH 3.6, and a voltammetric scan using differential pulse mode with 25 mV s−1 scan rate. Detection limits of 0.1 and 0.08 ng mL−1 were achieved for V(V) and Mo(VI), respectively, which can be lowered down to 0.06 and 0.04 ng mL−1 by extending the adsorption time to 180 s. The reduction currents are linear in the range of 0.3–24.0 ng mL−1 and 0.1–30.0 ng mL−1 for V(V) and Mo(VI), respectively. The relative standard deviation for ten replicates determination of 4.0 ng mL−1 V(V) and Mo(VI) were 1.8% and 1.1%, respectively. The proposed method applied for the determination of vanadium and molybdenum in river water, tap water, well water and plant foodstuff such as cucumber, tomato, carrot and tea.
Effect of iron compounds on the storage stability of multiple‐fortified Ultra Rice®
Authors: Li Yao , Diosady Levente L. , Jankowski Shirley
Published: January 2008

Ultra Rice® is an extruded, reformed rice grain used as a carrier for micronutrients. It holds great promise for alleviating micronutrient deficiencies in populations that consume rice‐based diets. We investigated the stability of multiple‐fortified Ultra Rice® formulations in an effort to develop a stable premix containing iron, zinc, and B vitamins. The performance of four iron sources was tested under accelerated storage conditions (40 °C, 60% RH) over a period of 32 weeks. The effects of the iron source on micronutrient retention, oxidative stability, and sensory/physical properties were measured. Formulations containing ferric pyrophosphate (FePP) were the most stable, showing minimal losses of thiamin and good sensory/physical properties. Formulations containing ferrous fumarate lost more than 50% thiamin, while those containing iron‐sodium‐EDTA showed minimal loss of thiamin but developed the most rancidity. FeNaEDTA and ferrous fumarate resulted in darker coloured grains but they had a much higher in vitro bioavailability than the formulations containing FePP. The concentrations of zinc, folic acid, and niacinamide were not affected by the presence of iron during the storage tests.
Rice bran protein‐based edible films
Authors: Adebiyi Abayomi P. , Adebiyi Ayobamitale O. , Jin Dong‐Hao , Ogawa Tomohisa , Muramoto Koji
Published: January 2008

The development of degradable and edible films from protein sources has drawn significant attention for the utilisation of natural resources as well as for the alleviation of the environmental burden. Rice bran protein (RBP) was applied to protein film preparation in this study. The protein solutions were casted on plastic tissue culture dishes with glycerol as a plasticiser after heat treatment. Functional properties of the films were then measured. The puncture strength (PS) of RBP films increased up to pH 8.0 and then decreased. PS of protein films depends on the degree of protein purity, quality and composition. Higher concentration of glycerol weakened the films. The pH affected the water solubility of RBP films and the films showed least solubility at pH 3.0. RBP could be utilised in the preparation of degradable protein‐based films. The RBP‐based film had functional properties comparable to those of the soy protein‐based ones.
Survival of planktonic and sessile Acetobacter cerevisiae
Authors: Altieri Clelia , Speranza Barbara , Cardillo Daniela , Sinigaglia Milena
Published: January 2008

This study was designed to investigate the individual or combined effects of ethanol (4–12%), glucose (10–30%) and acetic acid (0–6%) on survival of planktonic and sessile cells of one strain belonging to the new species Acetobacter cerevisiae isolated from traditional balsamic vinegar. The results confirm that the planktonic cells’ survival was negatively affected by ethanol and by acetic acid; moreover, there was a positive correlation between survival and glucose concentration. On the contrary, biofilm formation was observed only in the absence of acetic acid, which was the most affecting variable on the natural ability of cells to attach and grow on surfaces. The obtained results supply new information about the physiology of a novel Acetobacter species and about its natural capability to develop biofilms so that improved control over balsamic vinegar fermentation could be implemented in the future.
Behaviour of some volatile compounds during distillation of fermented marc exposed to the smoking process
Authors: Porto Carla Da , Soldera Susi
Published: January 2008

Fermented marc was exposed to a controlled smoking process for 120, 240 and 460 min before distillation. To improve insight into the behaviour of ethanol and the partitioning of some volatile compounds, each distillate was collected in fractions (ethanol content from 24 to 59% vol) and analysed for the higher alcohols (2‐butanol,n‐butanol,n‐propanol, isoamyl alcohols,n‐hexanol) ethyl esters (ethyl acetate, ethyl lactate, ethyl caproate, ethyl caprylate, ethyl caprate, ethyl myristate and ethyl laurate) and volatile phenols (guaiacol, methyl guaiacol, ethyl guaiacol, propyl guaiacol, eugenol and isoeugenol). The results obtained showed that the behaviour of ethanol was not regular and the alcohol strength was lower when the smoking process was applied to fermented marc. The volatile phenols highlighted a distillation behaviour characterised by an increase in concentration at the end of the distillation process when ethanol decreased. Long time exposure of the marc to the smoking process resulted in higher reduction of ethanol, higher alcohols and ethyl esters. Instead, the volatile phenols increased with the duration of the smoking process.
Polyphenol content and antioxidative activity in apple purées with rhubarb juice supplement
Authors: Oszmiański Jan , Wojdyło Aneta
Published: January 2008

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of rhubarb juice addition and peeling in apple purée production and storage on its phenolic composition, antioxidant activity and colour. The apple material used in this study was of two varieties: Sampion and Idared. The apple purées prepared in three variants (control purées, peeling purées and purées with 5% of rhubarb juice) were stored for 3 and 6 months at 30 °C. Apple purées were investigated for their antioxidant activity, change of colour and contents of phenolic compounds plus the polymer procyanidins and degree of polymerization (DP). The preparation of purées from apples without peeling and the addition of rhubarb juice during purée preparation had significant influence on polyphenol content. The purée prepared from peeled apples of Idared variety had phenolic content 2.2 times lower than the control sample (non‐peeled apples). The highest level of total polyphenols was found in Idared + rhubarb sample (129.82 mg 100 g−1 purée). The content of this compound in Idared control sample was more than 2.8 times lower than in Idared purées with rhubarb. The use of non‐peeled Idared apples and 5% of rhubarb juice in purée preparation significantly increased polymeric procyanidins from 11.68 to 75.20 mg 100 g−1 and other phenolics from 9.23 to 54.62 mg/100 g. This effect for Sampion apples was smaller. The procyanidins during purées storage were more stable in samples with rhubarb juice addition. The purée samples with the addition of rhubarb juice had higher antioxidant activity measured using ABTS (2,2′azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid)) than purée samples without the addition (two times higher for Idared variety) of rhubarb juice. After 3 and 6 months of storage at temperature 30 °C, the antioxidant capacity decreased in all purées. Rhubarb juice had only high and positive effect on L* value in the case of Idared variety. The results showed that all Sampion apple purées had higher L* values than Idared.
Research on the extracting and anti‐oxidation dynamic characteristics of ginger oleoresin
Authors: Cheng‐Lun Liu , Derong Tang , Le Li
Published: January 2008

The pore diameter distribution and specific surface area of ginger residue have been measured by ASAP2010 Physical Adsorption Instrument. The micro pore volume is 43%, and medium pore volume is 47%. An improved purifying condition on oleoresin is 50 °C, solid/liquid ratio 1:3 and extraction time is 1.5 h. Meanwhile, the dynamic equation has been gained by testing the change of peroxide value of liquid lard and rapeseed oil with time. The anti‐oxidation reaction of oleoresin has the dynamic characteristics of zero‐order reaction. The apparent active energy of the reaction is 5.11 kJ m−1. The oxidation of lard and rapeseed oil is free radical reaction. In addition, it is concluded that temperature and the content of dissolving oxygen simultaneously take effect on the oxidation of lard and rapeseed oil. The effect of time on acid value is irregularly altering in the system.
Effect of osmotic pretreatment on equilibrium moisture content of dehydrated carrot cubes
Authors: Singh Bahadur , Mehta Sanjeev
Published: January 2008

The equilibrium moisture contents were determined for carrot cubes osmotically pretreated in salt, sucrose and salt plus sucrose combined solution using static method at 10, 25, 40 and 50 °C over a range of relative humidities from 14% to 95%. Six isotherm equations were applied for analysing the experimental data. Modified exponential equation, is the best equation for predicting the equilibrium moisture contents (EMC) of the dehydrated carrot cubes preosmosed in salt and sucrose plus salt solution, whereas modified Hasley equation is suitable for dehydrated carrot cubes preosmosed in sucrose solution over the relative humidity range of 14–95%. The EMC of carrot cubes osmotically pretreated with salt was highest among all pretreatments, and was lowest for un‐osmosed samples.
Seasonal evaluation of nutritional benefits of two fish species in the eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Patrick Saoud Imad , Batal Malek , Ghanawi Joly , Lebbos Nada
Published: January 2008

Fish are a good nutritional source of proteins, essential fatty acids and minerals. Societies with high fish intake have lower rates of acute myocardial infarctions and atherosclerosis, better cognitive functions, and better neural and visual development in foetuses. In the present work, we evaluated seasonal variation in proximate composition of two commercial fish species, the rabbitfish Siganus rivulatus, an algaevore, and the white sea bream Diplodus sargus, a carnivore from the eastern Mediterranean. Fifteen fish were collected on the second weekend of each of 8 months covering the four seasons. Results show that the nutritive value of a species of fish varies throughout the year. Furthermore, rabbitfish tissue generally contains more lipids than white sea bream, and fillet yield from rabbitfish is greater than from sea bream. As both fish are sold at a similar price in Lebanese markets, results suggest that rabbitfish offers better value for the price than does white sea bream.
Meat waste treatment methods and potential uses
Authors: Arvanitoyannis Ioannis S. , Ladas Demetrios
Published: January 2008

Meat waste management has been and continues to be one of the most important issues related to pollution management. This was due to the high concentration of meat waste materials like blood, hair, tail, horns and bones, among others that have to be thoroughly and effectively treated prior to their disposal. Methods like aerobic and anaerobic digestion [mesophilic or thermophilic temperatures, composting (windrows, aerated static piles and bins or aerated chambers)] are currently extensively used. Nowadays, the emphasis is on reusing the so‐called waste materials for production processes, i.e. meat and bone meal. The latter was widely recommended and used in animal nutrition as a protein source in place of proteinaceous feeds. However, this approach greatly suffered from Small Bowel Enteroclysis (SBE) occurrence and micro‐organism presence. Heavy metal absorption by means of charred bones appears to be one of the most promising applications of bones apart from other use for production of edible materials. The aim of this review was to summarise most updated references in the field of meat waste treatment and potential uses of treated waste by means of nine informative tables and six figures.
Effect of cooling conditions on separation of volatile compounds in grappa using tray and packed columns without reflux
Authors: Da Porto Carla , Decorti Deborha
Published: January 2008

Marcs were distilled using an industrial batch distillation plant. The performance of a tray column and a packed column without reflux were studied under different conditions of vapour cooling obtained by changing the water flow rates (100–350 L h−1). The temperature of cooling water was +12 °C. With this kind of plant the cooling conditions normally used for producing grappa in the tray column is a water flow of 200 L h−1 and 250 L h−1 in the packed column. Each distillate was collected in fractions and analysed for ethanol, lower volatile alcohols and esters. The results show that the tray column under a water flow rate of 200 L h−1 has a strong rectification effect on the volatile compounds and it has a significant decrease in separation efficiency at 300 L h−1. Instead, the packed column is poorly affected by the change of the water flow rates from 150 to 350 L h−1 and a distillate very rich of volatile compounds can be obtained. It was concluded that in order to maintain the classical method of grappa production, which consists in cutting the initial and the final fractions of distillate, the packed column is the most suitable.
Use of sunflower oil mixed with jojoba and paraffin oils in deep‐fat frying process
Authors: Farag Radwan S. , Farag Mostafa M. , Ali Rehab F.M.
Published: January 2008

The aim of the present study was to increase the stability of sunflower oil during frying process and to obtain low‐calorie fried foods. Therefore, sunflower oil was mixed separately with jojoba oil and paraffin oil at ratios of 9:1 and 8:2 (v/v). The frying process was conducted at 180 ° ± 5 °C for 12 h continuous heating time. Some physico‐chemical properties (refractive index, viscosity, colour, acid value, peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid test, iodine value and polymer content) of non‐fried and binary fried oil systems were measured at various heating periods. The results demonstrated that mixing sunflower oil with jojoba oil or paraffin oil increased the stability and hence improved the quality of sunflower oil during frying process.
Genetic divergences pre‐date Pleistocene glacial cycles in the New Zealand speckled skink, Oligosoma infrapunctatum
Authors: Greaves Stephanie N. J. , Chapple David G. , Daugherty Charles H. , Gleeson Dianne M. , Ritchie Peter A.
Published: January 2008

Aim  To examine the hypothesis raised by Graham S. Hardy that Pleistocene glacial cycles suffice to explain divergence among lineages within the endemic New Zealand speckled skink, Oligosoma infrapunctatum Boulenger.

Location  Populations were sampled from across the entire range of the species, on the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

Methods  We sequenced the mitochondrial genes ND2 (550 bp), ND4 + tRNAs (773 bp) and cytochrome b (610 bp) of 45 individuals from 21 locations. Maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian methods were used for phylogenetic reconstruction. The Shimodaira–Hasegawa test was used to examine hypotheses about the taxonomic status of morphologically distinctive populations.

Results  Our analysis revealed four strongly supported clades within O. infrapunctatum. Clades were largely allopatric, except on the west coast of the South Island, where representatives from all four clades were found. Divergences among lineages within the species were extremely deep, reaching over 5%. Two contrasting phylogeographical patterns are evident within O. infrapunctatum.

Main conclusions  The deep genetic divisions we found suggest that O. infrapunctatum is a complex of cryptic species which diverged in the Pliocene, contrary to the existing Pleistocene‐based hypothesis. Although Pleistocene glacial cycles do not underlie major divergences within this species, they may be responsible for the shallower phylogeographical patterns that are found within O. infrapunctatum, which include a radiation of haplotypes in the Nelson and Westland regions.
Mollusc diversity patterns in Central European fens: hotspots and conservation priorities
Authors: Horsák Michal , Cernohorsky Nicole
Published: January 2008

Aim To assess mollusc species composition and diversity patterns of treeless fen sites and to find simple environmental parameters that characterize diversity hotspots and priority sites for conservation.

Location Western Carpathian Mountains, Europe.

Methods Mollusc communities were sampled quantitatively from a homogeneous area of 16 m2in the central part of each of 145 treeless fen sites. Water conductivity and pH, geographical coordinates, altitude and habitat size of the sites studied, mean annual rainfall, mean annual temperature and mean January temperature were compiled for each plot. Nestedness in species composition was tested using thebinmatnestprogram to confirm the ‘nested habitat‐quality hypothesis’. Patterns in species diversity were analysed using the regression trees method to isolate the main predictors of species diversity.

Results Nested subset patterns of species composition were found along the gradient of mineral richness. Species distribution was highly nested (Tobs = 11.21,P << 0.001) in mineral‐poor sites (with water conductivity < 300 μS cm−1,n = 42) and was highly correlated with the site’s mineral richness (rs = 0.76,P << 0.001). By contrast, species distribution and richness of mineral‐rich sites (c.≥ 300 μS cm−1,n = 103) were not controlled by mineral richness. Variation in species richness was further explained by January temperature, landscape geomorphology, and total habitat area. The southern mineral‐rich low altitude fens were the most species rich, especially those of larger total area (23 species on average). These 24 sites (17% of all sites) harboured 90% of all recorded species, including all highly endangered ones. Mineral‐rich fens in montane valleys were the second most important group because they hosted the majority of populations of two rare glacial relict species (Vertigo geyeriandPupilla alpicola).

Main conclusions The significant nestedness raises the possibility of conserving the whole fen‐mollusc species pool within the most species‐rich sites. Thus, to select the conservation priority sites, easily available site characteristics for the prediction of species richness are needed. This knowledge can help us maintain fen biodiversity, which has become closely dependent on conservation management practices after the cessation of traditional mowing of fens for haymaking.
A comparison of trapping methods for Tabanidae (Diptera) in North Queensland, Australia
Authors: VAN HENNEKELER K. , JONES R. E. , SKERRATT L. F. , FITZPATRICK L. A. , REID S. A. , BELLIS G. A.
Published: January 2008

Abstract The ability to monitor the abundance and diversity of tabanid flies over wide areas requires effective and low‐cost surveillance methods. Such monitoring activities help to quantify the risk of transmission of pathogens by tabanids. Here we examine the effectiveness and practicality of two types of trap (canopy traps and Nzi traps) and two types of attractant (octenol and carbon dioxide) for monitoring tabanid flies in tropical Australia. The Nzi trap consistently caught more tabanids and more species of tabanids than the canopy trap. It was also more robust and therefore required less maintenance in remote locations.

The use of attractants substantially increased capture rates, both of individuals and species, and traps using both attractants were consistently the most effective. However, in remote locations, where it is not possible to check traps frequently, the use of attractants may not be feasible. When attractants were not used, the canopy trap caught very few tabanids, but the Nzi trap remained effective enough to be useful as a monitoring device. In addition, the number of tabanid species caught by the Nzi traps remained high, and included those that were most abundant. We therefore conclude that, in this region, Nzi traps are preferable for tabanid monitoring and that attractants greatly improve their effectiveness. However, for longterm monitoring, especially in remote locations, Nzi traps without attractants are a satisfactory option.
Vagal activation by sham feeding improves gastric motility in functional dyspepsia
Authors: Lunding J. A. , Nordström L. M. , Haukelid A.‐o. , Gilja O. H. , Berstad A. , Hausken T.
Published: January 2008

Abstract  Antral hypomotility and impaired gastric accommodation in patients with functional dyspepsia have been ascribed to vagal dysfunction. We investigated whether vagal stimulation by sham feeding would improve meal‐induced gastric motor function in these patients. Fourteen healthy volunteers and 14 functional dyspepsia patients underwent a drink test twice, once with and once without simultaneous sham feeding. After ingesting 500 mL clear meat soup (20 kcal, 37 °C) in 4 min, sham feeding was performed for 10 min by chewing a sugar‐containing chewing gum while spitting out saliva. Using two‐ and three‐dimensional ultrasound, antral motility index (contraction amplitude × frequency) and intragastric volumes were estimated. Without sham feeding, functional dyspepsia patients had lower motility index than healthy volunteers (area under curve 8.0 ± 1.2 vs 4.4 ± 1.0 min−1, P = 0.04). In functional dyspepsia patients, but not in healthy volunteers, motility index increased and intragastric volume tended to increase by sham feeding (P = 0.04 and P = 0.06 respectively). The change in motility index was negatively correlated to the change in pain score (r = −0.59, P = 0.007). In functional dyspepsia patients, vagal stimulation by sham feeding improves antral motility in response to a soup meal. The result supports the view that impaired vagal stimulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of gastric motility disturbances in functional dyspepsia.
Modelling environmental controls on ecosystem photosynthesis and the carbon isotope composition of ecosystem‐respired CO2 in a coastal Douglas‐fir forest
Authors: CAI TIEBO , FLANAGAN LAWRENCE B. , JASSAL RACHHPAL S. , BLACK T. ANDREW
Published: January 2008

We developed and applied an ecosystem‐scale model that calculated leaf CO2 assimilation, stomatal conductance, chloroplast CO2 concentration and the carbon isotope composition of carbohydrate formed during photosynthesis separately for sunlit and shaded leaves within multiple canopy layers. The ecosystem photosynthesis model was validated by comparison to leaf‐level gas exchange measurements and estimates of ecosystem‐scale photosynthesis from eddy covariance measurements made in a coastal Douglas‐fir forest on Vancouver Island. A good agreement was also observed between modelled and measured δ13C values of ecosystem‐respired CO2 (δR). The modelled δR values showed strong responses to variation in photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), air temperature, vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and available soil moisture in a manner consistent with leaf‐level studies of photosynthetic 13C discrimination. Sensitivity tests were conducted to evaluate the effect of (1) changes in the lag between the time of CO2 fixation and the conversion of organic matter back to CO2; (2) shifts in the proportion of autotrophic and heterotrophic respiration; (3) isotope fractionation during respiration; and (4) environmentally induced changes in mesophyll conductance, on modelled δR values. Our results indicated that δR is a good proxy for canopy‐level Cc/Ca and 13C discrimination during photosynthetic gas exchange, and therefore has several applications in ecosystem physiology.
Horizontal and vertical variations in sedimentation and resuspension rates in a stratifying lake – effects of internal seiches
Authors: HORPPILA JUKKA , NIEMISTÖ JUHA
Published: January 2008

The temporal and spatial variations in the rate of sedimentation and sediment resuspension in Lake Rehtijärvi (southern Finland) were studied by sediment traps deployed in the stratifying and non‐stratifying regions of the lake. Both the gross sedimentation rate and the resuspension rate recorded by near‐bottom traps were significantly higher in the stratifying region (>20 m depth) than in the shallow part of the lake (2 m depth). These rate changes were caused by temporarily elevated hypolimnetic resuspension rates exceeding 40 g dry weight m−2 day−1 in July 2005, whereas in the shallow station no such peak was observed and the resuspension rate remained below 30 g dry weight m−2 day−1 throughout the study. The elevated resuspension rate in the hypolimnion could not be attributed to surface wave action or sediment disturbance by fish, but was due to the occurrence of internal seiches. The seiche amplitude was on average the highest in July, although the wind velocities were low; this was because winds temporarily were blowing along the longitudinal axis of the lake. Due to the steep slopes, the sediments of Lake Rehtijärvi are prone to redistribution and sediment focusing towards the accumulation areas also affected trap catches in the deep stations.
A carboxysomal carbon‐concentrating mechanism in the cyanelles of the ‘coelacanth’ of the algal world, Cyanophora paradoxa?
Authors: Fathinejad Sara , Steiner Jürgen M. , Reipert Siegfried , Marchetti Martina , Allmaier Günter , Burey Suzanne C. , Ohnishi Norikazu , Fukuzawa Hideya , Löffelhardt Wolfgang , Bohnert Hans J.
Published: January 2008

Cyanelles are the peculiar plastids of glaucocystophyte algae that retained a peptidoglycan wall from the ancestral cyanobacterial endosymbiont. All cyanobacteria and most algae possess an inorganic carbon‐concentrating mechanism (CCM) that involves a microcompartment – carboxysomes in prokaryotes and pyrenoids in eukaryotes – harboring the bulk of cellular (plastidic) Rubisco. In the case of the living fossil, Cyanophora paradoxa, the existence of a CCM was a matter of debate. Microarray data revealing 142 CO2‐responsive genes (induced or repressed through a shift from high to low CO2 conditions), gas exchange measurements and measurements of photosynthetic affinity provided strong support for a CCM. We favor a recent hypothesis that glaucocystophyte cyanelles as the closest cousins to cyanobacteria among plastids contain ‘eukaryotic carboxysomes’: bicarbonate enrichment within cyanelles should be considerably higher than in chloroplasts with their pyrenoid‐based CCM. Thus, the stress‐bearing function of the peptidoglycan layer, the other unique heritage, would be indispensable. An isolation method for cyanelle ‘carboxysomes’ was developed and the protein components other than Rubisco analyzed by MS. Rubisco activase was identified and corroborated by western blotting. The well‐established cyanelle in vitro import system allows to use them as ‘honorary cyanobacteria’: assembly processes of supramolecular structures as phycobilisomes and carboxysomes thus can be studied after import of nucleus‐encoded precursor proteins and subsequent fractionation. Even minor components can easily be tracked and a surprisingly dynamic view is obtained. Labeled pre‐activase was imported into isolated cyanelles and 30% of the mature protein was found to be incorporated into the carboxysome fraction. A final decision between carboxysome or pyrenoid must await the identification of cyanelle carbonic anhydrase and, especially, the demonstration of shell proteins.
Characterization of polyphenol oxidase changes induced by desiccation of Ramonda serbica leaves
Authors: Veljovic‐Jovanovic Sonja , Kukavica Biljana , Navari‐Izzo Flavia
Published: January 2008

Resurrection plants are able to dehydrate/rehydrate rapidly without cell damage by a mechanism, the understanding of which may be of ecological importance in the adaptation of crop plants to dry conditions. The o‐diphenol oxidase in Ramonda serbica Pan. & Petrov, a rare resurrection plant of the Balkan Peninsula, was characterized in respect to different isoforms, preferable substrates and specific inhibitors. Two anionic isoforms with pI 4.6 and 4.7 were separated from turgid leaves. Three additional anionic isoforms (pI 5.1, 5.3 and 5.6) and three neutral isoforms (pI from 6.8 to 7.4) were induced in desiccated leaves. Based on apparent Km values, the affinity for reducing substrates decreased as follows: methyl catechol > chlorogenic acid > 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine > caffeic acid > pyrogallol. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity was specifically sensitive to diethyldithiocarbamate and also inhibited by KCN, DTT and salicylic hydroxamic acid but with no inhibitory effect of Na3N. Plants were subjected to drought‐to‐near complete water loss (approximately 2% relative water content, RWC) and several fold higher PPO activity was detected in desiccated leaves. Ramonda leaves contain high levels of phenolics, which decreased during drought. Rehydration of dry leaves from 2% RWC to 95% RWC led to transient inhibition of PPO in the first few hours. Within a day, the levels completely recovered to those determined in desiccated leaves. The finding of desiccation‐induced high activity of PPO and new isoforms, which were also present in rehydrated turgid leaves, indicates a substantial role for PPO in the adaptation mechanism of resurrection plants to desiccation and also to the oxidative stress during rehydration.
Role of xyloglucan in gravitropic bending of azuki bean epicotyl
Authors: Ikushima Toshimitsu , Soga Kouichi , Hoson Takayuki , Shimmen Teruo
Published: January 2008

The mechanism of the gravitropic bending was studied in azuki bean epicotyls. The cell wall extensibility of the lower side became higher than that of the upper side in the epicotyl bending upward. The contents of matrix polysaccharides of the cell wall (pectin and xyloglucan in hemicellulose‐II) in the lower side became smaller than those in the upper side. The molecular mass of xyloglucans in the lower side decreased. After an epicotyl was fixed to a metal rod to prevent the bending, gravistimulation was applied. Fundamentally the same results were obtained with respect to rheological and chemical characteristics of the cell wall as those of epicotyls showing gravitropic bending. The present results suggested that the initial gravitropic bending was caused by the increase in extensibility of the lower side and the decrease in extensibility of the upper side via the change of the cell wall matrix, especially xyloglucans.
An active haemovigilance programme characterizing the safety profile of 7437 platelet transfusions prepared with amotosalen photochemical treatment
Authors: Osselaer J. C. , Cazenave J. P. , Lambermont M. , Garraud O. , Hidajat M. , Barbolla L. , Tardivel R. , Defoin L. , Waller C. , Mendel I. , Raidot J. P. , Kandel G. , De Meuter R. , Fabrigli P. , Dehenau D. , Arroyo J. L. , Padrón F. , Gouezec H. , Corral M. , Jacquet M. , Sundin D. , Lin L. , Corash L.
Published: January 2008

Background  An active haemovigilance programme was implemented to survey adverse events (AE) associated with transfusion of platelets photochemically treated with amotosalen and ultraviolet A (PCT‐PLT). The results of 5106 transfusions have already been reported. Here we report the results of an additional 7437 PCT‐PLT transfusions.

Methods  The focus of this ongoing haemovigilance programme is to document all AEs associated with PCT‐PLT transfusion. Data collected for AEs include: time of event after starting transfusion, clinical descriptions, vital signs, results from radiographs and bacterial cultures, event severity (Grade 0–4) and causal relationship to PCT‐PLT transfusion.

Results  One thousand four hundred patients (mean 60 years, range 1–96) received PCT‐PLT transfusions. The majority of the patients (53·4%) had haematology–oncology diseases and required conventional chemotherapy (44·8%) or stem cell transplantation (8·6%). Sixty‐eight PCT‐PLT transfusions were associated with AE. Acute transfusion reactions (ATR), classified as an AE possibly related, probably related, or related to PCT‐PLT transfusions were infrequent (n = 55, 55/7437 = 0·7%) and most were of Grade 1 severity. Thirty‐nine patients (39/1400 = 2·8%) experienced one or more ATRs. The most frequently reported signs/symptoms were chills, fever, urticaria, dyspnoea, nausea and vomiting. Five AEs were considered severe (≥ Grade 2); however, no causal relationship to PCT‐PLT transfusion was found. Repeated exposure to PCT‐PLT did not increase the likelihood of an ATR. No cases of transfusion‐related acute lung injury and no deaths due to PCT‐PLT transfusions were reported.

Conclusions  Routine transfusion of PCT‐PLT is well‐tolerated in a wide range of patients. ATRs related to PCT‐PLT transfusion were infrequent and most were of mild severity.