bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production, active staining and gas chromatography assay analysis of recombinant aminopeptidase P from Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis DSM 20481
Authors: Stressler Timo , Eisele Thomas , Schlayer Michael , Fischer Lutz
Published: August 2012

The aminopeptidase P (PepP, EC 3.4.11.9) gene from Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis DSM 20481 was cloned, sequenced and expressed recombinantly in E. coli BL21 (DE3) for the first time. PepP is involved in the hydrolysis of proline-rich proteins and, thus, is important for the debittering of protein hydrolysates. For accurate determination of PepP activity, a novel gas chromatographic assay was established. The release of L-leucine during the hydrolysis of L-leucine-L-proline-L-proline (LPP) was examined for determination of PepP activity. Sufficient recombinant PepP production was achieved via bioreactor cultivation at 16 °C, resulting in PepP activity of 90 μkatLPP Lculture
-1. After automated chromatographic purification by His-tag affinity chromatography followed by desalting, PepP activity of 73.8 μkatLPP Lculture
-1 was achieved. This was approximately 700-fold higher compared to the purified native PepP produced by Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis NCDO 763 as described in literature. The molecular weight of PepP was estimated to be ~ 40 kDa via native-PAGE together with a newly developed activity staining method and by SDS-PAGE. Furthermore, the kinetic parameters K

m
and V

max
were determined for PepP using three different tripeptide substrates. The purified enzyme showed a pH optimum between 7.0 and 7.5, was most active between 50°C and 60°C and exhibited reasonable stability at 0°C, 20°C and 37°C over 15 days. PepP activity could be increased 6-fold using 8.92 mM MnCl2 and was inhibited by 1,10-phenanthroline and EDTA.
Antipsychotics: is it time to introduce patient
choice?
Authors: Morrison Anthony P. , Hutton Paul , Shiers David , Turkington Douglas
Published: August 2012

Evidence regarding overestimation of the efficacy of antipsychotics and
underestimation of their toxicity, as well as emerging data regarding
alternative treatment options, suggests it may be time to introduce patient
choice and reconsider whether everyone who meets the criteria for a
schizophrenia spectrum diagnosis requires antipsychotics in order to
recover.
The London 2012 Olympics – will there be a legacy for mental health?
Authors: Currie Alan
Published: August 2012

The host country's legacy after the Olympic Games is multifaceted. Alongside such diverse elements as tourism, commerce and transport sit the health benefits of increased participation in sports and provision of the highest quality medical support for the nation's elite sporting performers. Mental health, however, merits no specific mention. This could be a missed opportunity to create a legacy that promotes the mental health benefits of exercise as well as ensuring that the mental health needs of elite sportsmen and women are recognised and met in the same manner as their physical health needs.
Three-dimensional double-echo steady-state (3D-DESS) magnetic resonance imaging of the knee: establishment of flip angles for evaluation of cartilage at 1.5 T and 3.0 T
Authors: Moriya Susumu , Miki Yukio , Matsuno Yukako , Okada Masayo
Published: August 2012

Background

The effect of flip angle (FA) on synovial fluid and cartilage signal and on image contrast using three-dimensional double-echo steady-state (3D-DESS) sequence have only been performed with 1.0-T but not with 1.5-T or 3.0-T scanners.

Purpose

To identify the FA that gives the maximum synovial fluid and cartilage values, and to identify the FA at which maximum values of synovial fluid-cartilage contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in 3D-DESS sequences when 1.5-T and 3.0-T scanners are used.

Material and Methods

Using 3D-DESS with water-excitation pulse, mid-sagittal plane images of the knees of 10 healthy volunteers (5 men, 5 women; age range, 21–42 years) were obtained with FA varying from 10° to 90°. Synovial fluid signals, cartilage signals, and background were measured at each FA, and the FA that gave the highest synovial fluid and cartilage values was obtained. Synovial fluid-cartilage CNR was also calculated, and the FA that gave the largest CNR was obtained.

Results

At 1.5 T, the maximum synovial fluid signal was at FA 90°, and the maximum cartilage signal was at FA 30°. Synovial fluid-cartilage CNR was highest at FA 90° ( P < 0.05). At 3.0 T, the maximum synovial fluid signal was at FA 90°, and the maximum cartilage signal was at FA 20°. Synovial fluid-cartilage CNR was highest at FA 90° ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion

In order to improve the visibility of cartilage itself, FA settings of 30° at 1.5 T and 20° at 3.0 T are apparently ideal. For observing the cartilage surface, the most effective FA setting is 90° for both 1.5 T and 3.0 T.
Stiffened yeast telomerase RNA supports RNP function in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Lebo Kevin J. , Zappulla David C.
Published: August 2012

The 1157-nt Saccharomyces cerevisiae telomerase RNA, TLC1, in addition to providing a 16-nt template region for reverse transcription, has been proposed to act as a scaffold for protein subunits. Although accessory subunits of the telomerase ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex function even when their binding sites are relocated on the yeast telomerase RNA, the physical nature of the RNA scaffold has not been directly analyzed. Here we explore the structure–function organization of the yeast telomerase RNP by extensively stiffening the three long arms of TLC1, which connect essential and important accessory protein subunits Ku, Est1, and Sm7, to its central catalytic hub. This 956-nt triple-stiff-arm TLC1 (TSA-T) reconstitutes active telomerase with TERT (Est2) in vitro. Furthermore, TSA-T functions in vivo, even maintaining longer telomeres than TLC1 on a per RNA basis. We also tested functional contributions of each stiffened arm within TSA-T and found that the stiffened Est1 and Ku arms contribute to telomere lengthening, while stiffening the terminal arm reduces telomere length and telomerase RNA abundance. The fact that yeast telomerase tolerates significant stiffening of its RNA subunit in vivo advances our understanding of the architectural and functional organization of this RNP and, more broadly, our conception of the world of lncRNPs.
Inhaled Anticholinergic Agents and Acute Urinary Retention in Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Griend Joseph P Vande , Linnebur Sunny A
Published: August 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the risk of acute urinary retention with the use of inhaled anticholinergic agents in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

DATA SOURCES:

A literature search was performed with MEDLINE via PubMed from 1967 through May 2012 using the terms inhaled anticholinergics, urinary retention, benign prostatic hyperplasia, lower urinary tract symptoms, tiotropium, and ipratropium. In addition, references from reviewed publications were identified and official labeling was obtained from the manufacturers' Web sites.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

Only English-language publications were included. Randomized controlled trial data, observational studies, case reports, package labeling, and commentaries regarding men with BPH/LUTS using inhaled anticholinergic agents and the associated development of urinary retention were reviewed.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Two case reports; 1 prospective, open-label, single-arm study; and 2 nested case-control studies evaluated or described the use of inhaled anticholinergic agents and the development of acute urinary retention in men with BPH/LUTS. Taken together, the available data demonstrate that treatment with inhaled anticholinergic agents is associated with acute urinary retention in men with preexisting LUTS or BPH.

CONCLUSIONS:

Men with LUTS or BPH who are treated with inhaled anticholinergic agents may develop acute urinary retention, but this cannot be quantified based on the limited information available. Inhaled anticholinergic agents should be used when indicated in men with LUTS or BPH, but close monitoring and patient education should be implemented.
The issues and challenges facing three-network convergence in the Chinese media landscape
Authors: Zhengrong Hu , Li Hong
Published: August 2012

On 1 July 2010, twelve cities and regions were finally selected by the Chinese government after several rounds of debates and delays to take part in the country’s three-network convergence trials. The planned network convergence project will enable telecoms and broadcasting companies
to deliver Internet Protocol Television, mobile TV, and telephone and Internet services over a unified network. This statelevel push is seen as the beginning of the breakthrough of barriers between industry- specific regulators. The aim of avoiding overlapped investments, innovating the media
industry and providing cheaper service to customers is certainly feasible, but the difficulties facing the two most vibrant competitors in China – telecoms players under the supervision of the Ministry of Industrial and Information Technology (MIIT) and broadcasters under the State Administration
of Radio Film and Television (SARFT) – are mounting. China has the world’s largest number of network users (on the basis of government figures for the end of 2009, Internet 384 million, mobile 747 million, fixed line 313 million and cable TV 174 million), making it an attractive
media market for all industry players aiming for their piece of the action. This article aims to give a general account of the background of three-network convergence in China, the current advances pushed by the authorities and the industry at different levels, as well as the implicit policy
approaches for the near future.
BOOK REVIEWS
Authors: Wildman Steven S. , Evens Tom
Published: August 2012

TRANSITIONED MEDIA: A TURNING POINT INTO THE DIGITAL REALM, GALI EINAV (ED.) (2010) US: Springer, 172 pp., ISBN 978-1-4419-6098-6, Hardback, $119.00 DIGITAL RADIO IN EUROPE: TECHNOLOGIES, INDUSTRIES AND CULTURES, BRIAN O’NEILL, MARKO ALA-FOSSI, PER JAUERT, STEPHEN LAX,
LARS NYRE AND HELEN SHAW (EDS) (2010) Intellect, Bristol 248 pp., ISBN 978-1-84150-279-3, Hardback, £24.95
The implementation of DTT in Portugal: A case of public–private interplay
Authors: DENICOLI SERGIO , SOUSA HELENA
Published: August 2012

The introduction of the digital terrestrial television (DTT) in Portugal has developed slowly and hesitantly for over a decade. Technological uncertainties and the absence of a clear business model contributed for a sluggish development of the process. Portugal is today one of the European
countries with fewer DTT channels. However, and differently from other EU states, the Portuguese authorities have played a double role in the process: as a legislator/regulator and as a protector of the biggest telecommunications operator in the country, Portugal Telecom (PT). In the Portuguese
case, the public sector (not always overt) position was based on a symbiotic relationship between the State and PT (now the holder of the frequency use rights for the provision of the DTT service). This symbiosis was made possible through golden shares that were held by the State in PT, since
the privatization of the company. The interplay between the State and PT regarding the establishment of the DTT in Portugal is the main focus of this article.
Technological convergence in audio-visual technologies
Authors: Courtois Cédric , Dheer Evelien , Schuurman Dimitri
Published: August 2012

This article presents the results of a large-scale survey on viewing practices. Data from over 10,000 cases are used to explore the adoption-use diffusion gap and the correlation structures in the frequency of use of multiple channels (e.g. linear television, download, video-on-demand)
on multiple devices. The results show that, although a lot of devices capable of audio-visual playback have been adopted, few of them are used to consume television content. Furthermore, in terms of viewing frequency, the data suggest spillover effects of using multiple devices, rather than
a displacement. Finally, the results show a stable tendency to use multiple delivery channels within devices, rather than the formation of a pattern between devices. That is, channels usage frequency is correlated within devices, rather than scattered among devices.
Buyer Power and Vertically Differentiated Retailers
Authors: Rojas Christian , Lavoie Nathalie , Wang Shinn-Shyr
Published: August 2012

We consider a model of vertical competition where retailers purchase an upstream input from a monopolist and are able to differentiate from each other in terms of quality. Our primary focus is to study the price, quality and welfare effects of introducing a large retailer, such as Costco or a Wal-Mart Supercenter, which is able to obtain lower wholesale prices (i.e., countervailing buyer power). We obtain two main results. First, the store with no buyer power (a “traditional retailer”) responds to the presence of the large retailer by increasing its quality, a finding that is consistent with recent efforts by traditional retailers to enhance consumers’ shopping experience. Second, the presence of a large retailer causes consumer welfare to increase through two different channels: a) the upstream discount obtained by the large retailer is partially passed on to the retail price, and b) a greater quality offered by the traditional retailer. Contrary to conventional wisdom, at low levels of countervailing power, most of the consumer welfare gains accrue to consumers with the highest willingness to pay for quality, due to the latter channel.
On the Limitation of Fenton Oxidation Operational Parameters: A Review
Authors: Diya'uddeen Basheer Hasan , A.R. Abdul Aziz , Daud W.M.A.W.
Published: August 2012

The literature on the use of Fenton oxidation in wastewater treatment has established the method as one of the most effective and suitable methods for recalcitrant wastewater treatment. It is an advanced oxidation process (AOP) that utilises the highly reactive hydroxyl radical (OH) to aggressively and non-selectively destroy organic contaminants. The Fenton oxidation possesses environmental and economic benefits coupled with effective mineralisation of most wastewater organics. Broadly, the Fenton oxidation encompasses three types of oxidation routes for the production of OH: (i) through the use of Fenton reagents alone, termed classical Fenton oxidation (CFO), (ii) assisted by means of UV (photo-Fenton), or (iii) electron beams (electro-Fenton). However, this review is limited to CFO, which involves the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by suitable transition metals to generate OH. Despite the many advantages of the CFO process, there are issues related to operational parameters and the final treated wastewater, the most notable being pH modulation, the presence of the catalyst and the cost of the oxidant (H2O2). Furthermore, sludge generation constitutes an apparent drawback to the utilisation of this technology. This paper attempts to review the highlighted limitations and presents researches and advances reported in the literature addressing these issues.
Rheological Properties of Anghouzeh Gum
Authors: Milani Jafar , Ghanbarzadeh Babak , Maleki Gisoo
Published: August 2012

Rheological properties of anghouzeh gum, the exudate polysaccharides of Ferula asafoetida, was investigated. For this purpose, anghouzeh gum was extracted from crude exudate by alcoholic extraction with 90% ethanol. The molecular weight of the anghouzeh gum was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Anghouzeh gum had smaller molecular weight and lower intrinsic viscosity than arabic gum. The intrinsic viscosity was determined by extrapolating Huggins and Kraemer equations to zero concentration. The obtained intrinsic viscosity was 0.213 dl/g. The viscosity of the anghouzeh gum solution was very close to that of albizia gum. Newtonian plateau was seen in low shear rates while a weak shear thinning behavior was observed in higher shear rates. The frequency sweep test showed that in 3% gum solutions the loss modulus (G") was greater than the storage modulus (G') at low frequencies and then it became lower than G' with increasing of frequency. However, critical point was located at very high frequencies.
Thermal Diffusivity and Specific Heat of Bovine Milk Affected by Temperature and Composition
Authors: Souza Evaldo Cardozo , Fontan Rafael Costa Ilhéu , Veríssimo, Lizzy Ayra Alcântara , Sampaio Vanessa Santos , Silva Willian Soares , Bonomo Renata Cristina Ferreira , Veloso Cristiane Martins
Published: August 2012

The sizing of equipment used in food processing, particularly heat exchangers and other equipment that require pumping of products, requires accurate data of thermophysical properties. Milk is one of the most processed liquid food fluids in the world and currently data on its thermophysical properties are limited. In a previous paper (Alcântara et al., 2010) density and dynamic viscosity data of bovine milk were presented and how these properties are affected by temperature and composition, in ranges commonly encountered in food processing. Here the thermal diffusivity and specific heat data for milk are presented, evaluating the effect of composition (moisture, fat, lactose, protein and minerals contents) and temperature (only for thermal diffusivity). Linear regression was used and the best models were selected based on the determination coefficient (R²), lack of fit, significance parameters and root mean square error (RMSE) values. Predictive ability of fitted models was compared with Choi and Okos (1986) correlations. Thermal diffusivity ranged from (1.00 to 9.03) × 10-7 m2s-1 and specific heat from (3.078 to 4.121) kJkg-1K-1. Thermal diffusivity presented a polynomial quadratic behavior affected by temperature and composition, except for lactose concentration which showed no significant effect (p0.05). For specific heat, increase in the moisture content led to an increase in the specific heat while elevations in fat, protein, lactose and mineral contents promoted a decrease of this property. In both cases the fitted models showed satisfactory R² values, nonsignificant lack of fit (p0.05) and significant parameters (p0.05), with RMSE values lower than Choi and Okos (1986) correlations. From the properties presented here and in the earlier paper, accurate calculations can be made for correct sizing and adaptation of equipment, as well as provide information of other thermophysical properties such as thermal conductivity and thermal expansion coefficient.
Determination of Stickiness Values of Different Flour Combinations
Authors: Yildiz Onder , Meral Raciye , Dogan Ismail Sait
Published: August 2012

Throughout the process of bakery production, dough stickiness is a widespread problem and is influenced by many factors. Reliable, quick and quantitative methods are needed for measurement of dough stickiness in baking industry. In this study, three different flours were used (F1, F2 and F3) and 12% wheat starch and 2% vital gluten were added to those flours to widen protein content of each flour sample. Stickiness values of prepared doughs were measured using SMS/Chen-Hoseney unit at different resting times (0, 20 and 40 mins). Stickiness (g), work of adhesion (g.s) and dough strength/cohesivenes (mm) values were measured for comparison. Obtained data from dough with F1 was significantly different from other flours (P<0.05). Protein content and resting time have changed dough stickiness value. A positive relationship was found between farinograph water absorption and dough stickiness of flour. Stickiness value increased with water uptake of flour.
Effects of Drying Methods on Antioxidant Properties and Phenolic Content in White Button Mushroom
Authors: Ji Hongfang , Du Ailin , Zhang Lingwen , Li Shuang , Yang Mingduo , Li Bo
Published: August 2012

In order to explore the potential drying process, the effects of different drying methods (sun drying, hot-air drying, microwave-vacuum drying, and freeze drying) on the antioxidant properties and phenolic contents in white button mushroom fruit bodies were investigated. The Folin-Ciocalteu method was used to determine total phenolic content, while 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, reducing power, iron-chelating ability, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity assays were used to elucidate antioxidant activities. Results indicated that antioxidant properties in dried white button mushroom were affected by the drying methods to different extents, and phenolic contents showed significant differences (p<0.05) among different drying methods. Microwave-vacuum drying possessed the highest antioxidant activity in DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power and iron-chelating ability, respectively; and the content of phenolic compounds was 4.945 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) /g dry weight (DW). Sun drying was the worst in antioxidant activity and content of phenolic compounds was 1.964 mg GAE/g DW. Additionally, significantly positive correlation was found between the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity (p<0.01). As far as antioxidant activities are concerned, microwave-vacuum drying is proposed as an appropriate drying technique for white button mushroom.
Aqueous Enzymatic Extraction of Rapeseed Oil and Protein from Dehulled Cold-pressed Double-low Rapeseed Cake
Authors: Niu Yan Xing , Li Wenlin , Zhu Jun , Huang Qingde , Jiang Mulan , Huang Fenghong
Published: August 2012

The oil and protein of dehulled cold-pressed double-low rapeseed cake was extracted by an aqueous enzymatic process. The rapeseed cake was treated by the chosen combined enzymes of Viscozyme L and Alcalase 2.4L (VLA,1:1,w/w). Preliminary experiments and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were used to study the effects of enzyme concentration, incubation time and water-to-cake ratio on the extraction yield of oil and protein. This is how the desirable conditions were obtained. Transmissive electron microscope photo showed that after cold-pressing the cell structure of rapeseed was partly damaged while dehulling had little effect on the cell structure of rapeseed. In RSM experiments water-to-cake ratio showed significant effects on the extraction of oil and protein (P<0.05),while incubation time only showed significant effects on protein yield (P<0.05).The desirable conditions were as follows: 1.0% concentration (w/w) of VLA; water-to-cake ratio(w/w),6:1; 80 min incubation time. Under this condition, the extraction yield of protein and oil were 82.10% and 71.89%, respectively. Through combining both the cold-press and the aqueous enzymatic processes together, the total oil yield reached 91.6%, which is higher than the normal cold-press process or the aqueous enzymatic extraction process alone.
Determination of Moisture Diffusivity and Activation Energy in Thin Layer Drying of Olive Pomace
Authors: Meziane Smail , Mesbahi Naima
Published: August 2012

The thin layer drying of olive pomace was experimentally studied in a laboratory convective dryer. Drying experiments were performed under five air temperatures of 60, 70, 80 and 90ºC, two air velocities of 1.0 and 1.8 m s-1 and three thickness of thin layer of 6, 9 and 12 mm. The results show that the drying time decreased with increased in drying temperature and air velocity but increased with the decreasing of thin layer thickness of olive pomace. Over the experimental range studied, the values of effective moisture diffusivity and activation energy ranged from 1.25 • 10-9 to 6.30 • 10-9 m2 s-1 and 26.30 to 37.63 kJ mol-1, respectively. The dependence of these parameters on thickness of thin layer, and temperature and velocity of drying air has been investigated.
Rheological Behavior of Agar Solution in Relation to the Making of Instant Edible Bird's Nest products
Authors: Zhang Lu , Che Liming , Zhou Weibiao , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: August 2012

Agar solution has been used in industry as a background liquid material for the production of instant Edible Birds Nest products. In this work, the rheological properties of agar solution were studied, especially the effect of shear rate, agar concentration and temperature, respectively, on the apparent viscosity of the agar solution. A HAAKE rotary viscometer was used. Results indicated that the agar solution exhibited shear-thinning behavior following the power law fluid model. Its apparent viscosity increased exponentially with an increase of solid concentration, and decreased with a rise of temperature. The independence of viscosity on temperature followed Arrhenius equation. Reasonable empirical correlations between the apparent viscosity of the agar solution for different temperatures, shear rates and different concentrations are proposed respectively.
Extraction of Polysaccharide From Zizyphus Lotus Fruits
Authors: Chouaibi Moncef , Rezig Leila , Ben daoued Khaled , Mahfoudhi Nesrine , Bouhafa Habib , Hamdi Salem
Published: August 2012

In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction conditions of polysaccharides from the pulp of Zizyphus lotus fruit. A central composite rotatable design (CCRD) was used for experimental design and analysis of the results to obtain the optimal processing parameters. Ethanol concentration, extraction temperature, extraction time and water to raw material ratio were found to have a significant effect ( p < 0.05) on the yield of Zizyphus lotus polysaccharide. The 3-D response surface and contour plots, derived from the mathematical model, were applied to determine the optimal conditions. The optimum conditions were as follows: water to raw material ratio 22.04:1, ethanol concentration of 83.30 %, extraction time of 2.65 h, and extraction temperature of 66.31 Â°C. Under these conditions, the experimental percentage value was 17.35Â±0.07 %, which is in well close agreement with the value predicted by the model (17.29 %). The results of physicochemical analysis showed that the main sugar composition of Zizyphus lotus polysaccharide, purified by Sephadex G-75 gel permeation chromatography, was glucose followed by arabinose, mannose and rhamnose.
Moisture Sorption Isotherms and Net Isosteric Heats of Sorption of Green Soybean
Authors: Yang Zhao , Zhu Enlong , Zhu Zongsheng
Published: August 2012

Moisture sorption isotherms of green soybean seeds were determined by static gravimetric method and water activity ranging from 0.11to 0.94 at 20, 30 and 40°C. The optimal sorption model of green soybean was determined by using nonlinear regression method. Modified BET multilayer sorption theory model parameters at different temperatures were calculated, isosteric sorption heat was derived by the water activity sorption isosteric model. Results indicated that sorption isotherms were belong to type III behaviour, a notable hysteresis effect was observed, Green soybean monolayer saturated sorption capacity was greater in desorption process than that of adsorption. The monolayer saturated sorption capacity decreased with increasing temperature, while the number of multilayer had a reverse trend with the monolayer saturated sorption capacity, the optimal sorption isotherm model for green soybean is Halsey model, The thermodynamic parameters including net isosteric heat of adsorption and desorption calculated at 40°C were 105.2-1865.4 kJ/kg and 111.62-1939.0 kJ/kg with equilibrium moisture content between 5% and 32% (d.b.), respectively. The net isosteric heat of sorption decreased with increasing equilibrium moisture content.
Immobilization of ß-galactosidase from Kluyveromyces lactis on Eupergit® C and Properties of the Biocatalyst
Authors: Campello Graciella da Silva , Trindade Renata Aguirre , Rêgo Tatiane Vieira , Burkert Janaína Fernandes de Medeiros , Burkert Carlos André Veiga
Published: August 2012

The main goal of this study was to investigate the immobilization of commercial ß-galactosidase from Kluyveromyces lactis (Lactozym®) on Eupergit® C. A Plackett-Burman design was proposed. The ionic strength and pH were the variables that presented significant effect (p<0.1) on immobilization. The increase in the ionic strength from 0.1 to 1.5 M and the increase in pH from 6.6 to 7.4 represented an increase of 28.56% and a reduction of 18.19% in the immobilization yield, respectively. At 25°C, pH 6.6, ionic strength of 1.5 M, immobilization for 8 h, 1 mM of divalent magnesium ion and 0.4 mL of enzyme added, reached 85% immobilization yield. The free and immobilized enzymes were characterized. pH and temperature profiles showed maximum activity at pH 6.6 and 45°C, for both free and immobilized enzymes. There was a gain in thermal stability with enzyme immobilization and there was an increase of about four times in the half-life of the immobilized derivative at 45°C (from 0.43 h to 1.78 h). This greater thermal stability was also made clear through the calculation of thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔG and ΔS). Km values, 30.33 mM and 104.00 mM for free and immobilized enzymes, respectively, represented a reduction in substrate affinity after immobilization, possibly owing to stereo-conformational factors. In a batch reactor for lactose hydrolysis from cheese whey, an increase in lactose conversion with immobilization was observed at 40°C and 45°C (90.43% and 65.36%, respectively) in relation to the free enzyme (84.17% and 39.58%, respectively).
Smith Predictor Based Parallel Cascade Control Strategy for Unstable Processes with Application to a Continuous Bioreactor
Authors: Vanavil B. , Uma S. , Seshagiri Rao A.
Published: August 2012

In this paper, Smith predictor based parallel cascade control strategy is proposed for enhanced control of continuous bioreactor. The scheme consists of secondary loop and primary loop. The secondary loop controller is designed based on the direct synthesis method. Then, the overall primary loop process model is identified using least square method. A delay compensation strategy is incorporated in the primary loop and the corresponding primary loop delay compensated controller is designed based on the identified primary loop model. For comparison, a simple parallel cascade control and a simple feedback control is also applied to the continuous bioreactor. From the simulation studies, it is observed that delay compensated control strategy provides enhanced closed loop performances compared to that of the simple parallel cascade control and simple feedback control. To analyze the performance in the presence of uncertainties, robustness analysis has been carried out based on sensitivity and complementary sensitivity functions.
Sewage Sludge to Energy - A Simulation Study
Authors: Schausberger Paul , Friedl Anton
Published: August 2012

The global shortage of resources and the intention to reduce CO2 emissions from fossil sources has triggered new approaches in the wastewater industry. Better ways are sought for to manage sewage sludge and to exploit its value as a secondary resource. However, we see a lack of tools to assess the appropriate treatment strategy which leads to imperfect process choices and designs. Here we present (a) a modeling approach and a simulation tool that allows the systematic evaluation of different sewage sludge treatment options and (b) a test case study for a mid-sized waste water treatment plant. The sludge model is discussed and tested for consistency with alternative approaches. In the case study, the direct conversion to electricity in a Rankine cycle is shown to be superior to biogas production or dried sludge export based on an energy cost analysis. The development presented is believed to enable more efficient waste-to-energy conversion and to contribute to sustainable resource management.
Recent progress in orexin/hypocretin physiology and pharmacology
Authors: Kukkonen Jyrki P.
Published: August 2012

Orexin peptides and their cognate receptors were discovered 14 years ago. They soon took a very central position in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness. Active studies have further elucidated these functions as well as the role of orexins in, for instance, appetite, metabolism, analgesia, addiction, and stress response. This review summarizes all the important fields but especially aims at focusing on novel findings and future directions.
Transforming growth factor-β superfamily, implications in development and differentiation of stem cells
Authors: Santibanez Juan F. , Kocic Jelena
Published: August 2012

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family members, including TGF-βs and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), play important roles in directing the fate of stem cells. In embryonic stem cells, the TGF-β superfamily participates in almost all stages of cell development, such as cell maintenance, lineage selection, and progression of differentiation. In adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), TGF-βs can provide competence for early stages of chondroblastic and osteoblastic differentiation, but they inhibit myogenesis, adipogenesis, and late-stage osteoblast differentiation. BMPs also inhibit adipogenesis and myogenesis, but they strongly promote osteoblast differentiation. The TGF-β superfamily members signal via specific serine/threonine kinase receptors and their nuclear effectors termed Smad proteins as well as through non-Smad pathways, which explain their pleiotropic effects in self-renewal and differentiation of stem cells. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the pleiotropic effects of the TGF-β superfamily of growth factors on the fate of stem cells and also discusses the mechanisms by which the TGF-β superfamily members control embryonic and MSCs differentiation.
Apicobasal polarity and its role in cancer progression
Authors: Lo Priscilla , Hawrot Hannah , Georgiou Marios
Published: August 2012

Appropriate establishment and maintenance of cell polarity is essential for normal development and homeostasis. The vast majority of human cancers originate from epithelial tissues and tumour cell invasion and metastasis are the major cause of mortality in human cancers. Invading cells demonstrate loss of cell polarity, loss of epithelial cell-cell adhesions and tissue disorganisation. We examine the growing evidence linking loss of apicobasal polarity with tumour progression.
Tet proteins: on track towards DNA demethylation?
Authors: Véron Nathalie
Published: August 2012

Dynamic DNA methylation is a prerequisite for many developmental processes and maintenance of cellular integrity. In mammals however, mechanisms of active DNA demethylation have for long been elusive. The discovery of the ten-eleven translocation (Tet) family of enzymes that oxidize 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine (5fC) or 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC) provided new means by which DNA methylation could actively be reversed. This review focuses on the possible mechanisms of DNA demethylation via Tet proteins and their metabolites 5hmC, 5fC and 5caC. Additionally, it discusses the roles of the three Tet protein family members Tet1, Tet2 and Tet3 as developmental regulators, probably in part independent of their enzymatic activity. By contrast, recent evidence suggests a function of 5hmC as an epigenetic mark on its own, going beyond the expectation of only acting as an intermediate in an active DNA demethylation pathway.
Antibacterial compound from the endophytic fungus Phomopsis longicolla isolated from the tropical red seaweed Bostrychia radicans
Authors: Erbert Cíntia , Lopes Adriana A. , Yokoya Nair S. , Furtado Niege A.J.C. , Conti Raphael , Pupo Mônica T. , Lopes João Luis C. , Debonsi Hosana M.
Published: August 2012

Endophytic fungi isolated from the red seaweed Bostrychia radicans were studied to identify their molecularly diverse and biologically active natural chemical products. According to 28S ribosomal DNA-based identification, the strain named C81 was 98% identical to Phomopsis longicolla. This strain was cultivated in solid rice medium and produced three major metabolites identified as 18-deoxycytochalasin H (1), mycophenolic acid (2), and dicerandrol C (3). The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated by 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance as well as by mass spectrometry. Dicerandrol C had significant antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Staphylococcus saprophyticus (ATCC 15305), with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 1 and 2 μg ml-1(1.33 and 2.66 μm), respectively. These results show the presence of promising metabolites and indicate that these natural products should be considered in the development of new antibiotics.
Neosiphonia peruviensis sp. nov. (Rhodomelaceae, Rhodophyta) from the Pacific coast of South America
Authors: Bustamante Danilo Edson , Won Boo Yeon , Ramírez Maria Eliana , Cho Tae Oh
Published: August 2012

Approximately 29 species of Neosiphonia are currently recognized worldwide. We describe our unidentified samples collected from the Pacific coast of South America as a new species, N. peruviensis sp. nov., based on morphological and molecular data. Neosiphonia peruviensis sp. nov. is characterized by erect and prostrate thalli, rhizoids cut off from proximal ends of pericentral cells by cross walls, six pericentral cells that are totally ecorticate, abundant trichoblasts forked once or twice, prominent scar cells and tetrasporangia spirally arranged. Our new species is similar to several Neosiphonia/Polysiphonia species having more than four pericentral cells: N. notoensis, N. porrecta, “N. tepida”, N. teradomariensis, and “P. forfex”. However, N. peruviensis sp. nov. is distinguished from these similar species by having six pericentral cells through all of the thallus. Phylogenetic analyses of rbcL indicate that our N. peruviensis is placed in genus Neosiphonia and is also distinguishable from other Neosiphonia species.
Polysiphonia sensu lato (Ceramiales, Florideophyceae) species of Caribbean Panama including Polysiphonia lobophoralis sp. nov. and Polysiphonia nuda sp. nov.
Authors: Mamoozadeh Nadya R. , Freshwater D. Wilson
Published: August 2012

Only two species of Polysiphonia sensu lato (predominately species of Polysiphonia and Neosiphonia) have been reported from Caribbean Panama. In contrast, 16 species are documented from the neighboring countries of Costa Rica and Colombia. Molecular-assisted identification using plastid-encoded ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit gene (rbcL) and mitochondria-encoded cytochrome coxidase subunit I gene (COI) loci identified 14 species from 38 samples collected along the Caribbean coast of Panama. Morphological character states were examined and used to identify each sample, and phylogenetic relationships among these species were estimated through maximum likelihood analyses of rbcL and nuclear-encoded SSU sequence data. Neosiphonia ferulaceae, N. tongatensis, Polysiphonia binneyi, P. havanensis, P. macrocarpa, P. pseudovillum, P. schneideri, P. subtilissima, and two species that could only be identified as P. cf. sertularioides are reported for the first time from Panama. Polysiphonia pentamera, a species only known from the eastern Pacific is reported for the first time in the Caribbean, and two new species, P. lobophoralis and P. nuda are described. A key to Caribbean Panama species, descriptions of species morphology and remarks on taxonomy and relationships are provided. These findings demonstrate that previous limited reports of Polysiphonia sensu lato species from Panama resulted from a lack of study, rather than a lack of diversity, within the region.
Vitamin D deficiency parallels inflammation and immune activation, the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study
Authors: Murr Christian , Pilz Stefan , Grammer Tanja B. , Kleber Marcus E. , Meinitzer Andreas , Boehm Bernhard O. , März Winfried , Fuchs Dietmar
Published: August 2012

Background: Low vitamin D concentrations are detected in patients suffering from various clinical conditions which are characterized also by inflammation and immune activation. We investigated whether vitamin D levels in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) are related to markers of immune activation.

Methods: Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] and the immune activation markers neopterin and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured in 2015 patients derived from the LUdwigshafen RIsk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study, a cohort study among patients referred for coronary angiography.

Results: Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D did not differ between patients with CAD [mean±SD: 25(OH)D: 17.4±9.4 μg/L; 1,25(OH)2D: 34.4±13.3 ng/L] and controls [25(OH)D: 18.4±11.7 μg/L; 1,25(OH)2D: 35.3±12.7 ng/L; Welch’s t-test: p=n.s.] but CAD patients had higher neopterin (8.6±7.4 nmol/L) and hsCRP (9.6±19.6 mg/L) concentrations compared to controls (neopterin: 7.5±4.8 nmol/L; p=0.0004; hsCRP: 5.4±10.0 mg/L; p<0.0001). There was an inverse correlation between serum 25(OH)D or 1,25(OH)2D concentrations and serum neopterin [Spearman’s rank correlation: 25(OH)D: rs=–0.183; 1,25(OH)2D: rs=–0.230] and hsCRP [25(OH)D: rs=–0.142; 1,25(OH)2D: rs=–0.130; all p<0.0001] concentrations.

Conclusions: Our results indicate increased inflammatory processes in patients with low vitamin D status. Further studies should clarify the underlying mechanisms for the observed associations of vitamin D status and inflammatory parameters.
Comparison of diagnostic and prognostic performance of two assays measuring thymidine kinase 1 activity in serum of breast cancer patients
Authors: Nisman Benjamin , Allweis Tanir , Kadouri Luna , Mali Bela , Hamburger Tamar , Baras Mario , Gronowitz Simon , Peretz Tamar
Published: August 2012

Background:We compared two recently developed immunoassays for serum thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) activity: one manual assay (DiviTum, Biovica®) and one fully automated assay (Liaison, Diasorin®).

Methods:The study included 368 women: 149 healthy blood donors (control), 59 patients with benign breast disease (BBD) and 160 patients with primary breast cancer (BC).

Results:A regression analysis of the Liaison (y) and DiviTum (x) assays for all three groups yielded the equation y=3.93+0.03x (r=0.85, n=368). The r-value in BC was higher than in control and BBD (0.90 vs. 0.81 and 0.64). The correlation between the two assays for TK1 values above the cut-off was higher compared to that below (0.88 and 0.59). Breakdown of the BBD group into subgroups with proliferative and non-proliferative lesions was effective only with the measurement of TK1 with DiviTum assay (p=0.03). The TK1 activity determined preoperatively in BC patients with DiviTum and Liaison assays was significantly associated with T-stage (for both p=0.01), presence of vascular invasion (p=0.002 and p=0.02), lack of estrogen receptor (ER) (p=0.001 and p=0.01) and progesterone receptor (PR) (p=0.01 and p=0.03) expression. Only TK1 analyzed with the DiviTum assay was associated with tumor grade and molecular subtype of BC (p=0.02 and p=0.003). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses demonstrated that T-stage, PR status and TK1 activity measured by both methods (DiviTum, RR=3.0, p=0.02 and Liaison, RR=3.1, p=0.01) were independent predictors of disease recurrence.

Conclusions:In spite of differences observed between TK1 activity measured by the DiviTum and Liaison assays, both of them may be used for recurrence prediction in preoperative evaluation of BC patients.
Association of acute phase protein-haptoglobin, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in buccal cancer: a preliminary report
Authors: Lee Ching-Chih , Ho Hsu-Chueh , Chien Sou-Hsin , Hsiao Shih-Hsuan , Hung Shih-Kai , Huang Tze-Ta , Yu Chih-Chia , Chang Shu-Mei , Huang Huai-Huei , Su Yu-Chieh
Published: August 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of inflammation on acute phase protein and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in buccal cancer.

Methods: Western blotting was carried out to investigate the expression of haptoglobin and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in oral cancer cell lines with or without IL-6 stimulation. We studied patients with buccal cancer patients without distant metastasis at diagnosis. Correlation between cellular haptoglobin, EMT, and clinical characteristics of buccal cancer was analyzed to assess the prognostic value of cellular haptoglobin level and EMT. The relationship of haptoglobin, and EMT expression with survival was assessed using Cox proportional hazard models.

Results: Western blotting analysis showed that increased haptoglobin protein was associated with overexpression of vimentin. Under IL-6 stimulation, overexpression of haptoglobin, EMT-associated motile phenotype was noted in OC2 cell lines. Overexpression of haptoglobin was also associated with an increased risk for locoregional recurrence [hazard ratio (HR) 1.04; p=0.011] after adjusting for age, gender, disease site, stage, and treatment modality.

Conclusions: Increased cellular expression of haptoglobin is associated with EMT in oral cancer cell lines and this phenomenon could be exaggerated with IL-6. Cellular expression of haptoglobin is related to locoregional recurrence rate in buccal cancer patients.
Pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in adult renal transplant recipients
Authors: Naik Pradeep , Madhavarapu Mallikarjuna , Mayur Prabhu , Nayak Karampodi Shivanand , Sritharan Venkataraman
Published: August 2012

Background: The success of an immunosuppressive drug therapy depends on the extent of exposure to the drugs (the blood levels and duration), which is measured as the area under the curve (AUC). Tacrolimus shows considerable variability in its pharmacokinetics, with poor correlation between the tacrolimus trough level and systemic exposure, as measured by the AUC of concentration time. Monitoring trough levels helps not only in reducing nephrotoxiicity but also in reducing the chances of acute rejection; although there is no international consensus, the trough concentration is used to determine dosing and the AUC for calculating the exposure of the patient to the drug. The major objective of this study was to find the best sampling time for an abbreviated AUC0–6 (area under the concentration time curve) to predict the total body exposure to tacrolimus in adult renal transplantation recipients.

Methods: The study involved retrospective analysis of 14 renal transplant patients (2 female and 12 male) that were on triple immunosuppressive therapy, methyl prednisolone, mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus. To determine trough concentrations, blood samples were collected before administration of tacrolimus (0 h) and at fixed time points of 2 h, 4 h and 6 h after administration of oral tacrolimus and analyzed in duplicate by microparticle enzyme immunoassay. AUC0–6 was determined using the linear trapezoidal rule. The association between the blood concentration and AUC6 were evaluated by the Pearson correlation coefficient. All statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software (IBM Corp., NY, USA) program.

Results: Trough levels were fairly consistent at 7.9–18 ng·h/mL in all the patients included in this study, and this did not show variation with age or sex. The AUC0–6 was higher [202–290 ng/mL at 3–8 mg bis-daily (b.d.) dosage] in patients who received kidneys from cadavers compared to recipients from live donors (60.5–171 ng/mL at 3–8 mg b.d. dosage), but the clinical significance of this is not known. The highest AUC0–6 was 246 ng/mL, observed at 4.5 mg b.d. dosage. Dosages higher than 2 mg b.d. did not result in a noticeable increase in AUC0–6. Peak blood levels of tacrolimus were obtained 4 h after administration.

Conclusions: Trough level determination and a C2, C4 two-point limited sampling strategy may be useful to plan the dosing strategy and estimate the exposure of renal transplant patients to tacrolimus.