bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manipulating Rules, Contesting Solutions: Europeanization and the Politics of Restructuring Olympic Airways
Authors: Featherstone Kevin , Papadimitriou Dimitris
Published: January 2007

In recent years much debate has been generated over the reshaping of the European airline industry and the restructuring of many of the heavily indebted national flag-carriers across the European Union. The European Commission has sought to orchestrate this reform process by the gradual break up of monopolies in air travel and its associated services and a much tighter policing of state aid practices. The EU's liberalizing agenda in air transport, however, has met with strong domestic opposition in the member states. Nowhere else has the resistance to reform been stronger than in Greece, where for a decade successive attempts to restructure or privatize Olympic Airways have yielded very limited success. By focusing, in particular, on the initiative of the Greek government in 2003 to create a new ‘Olympic Airlines’, the article examines how domestic pressures prompted the Greek government to shift away from cooperation with the Commission and invite conflict. The Greek government lost an ECJ case and both Athens and the Commission were left with a sub-optimal outcome. By linking the narrative to the conceptual literature on Europeanization and compliance, the article addresses a number of themes including: the contestation of European competition rules and the ability of national governments to manipulate them, policy entrepreneurship and complex problem-solving, as well as the Commission's role as a stimulus, but potentially also an obstacle to domestic reform.
Global Markets and National Regulation: The Protection of Shareholder Interests in Germany and Italy
Authors: McCann Dermot
Published: January 2007

Global market integration is widely perceived as presenting a major challenge to the sustainability of many national economic regulatory systems. There is far less agreement, however, about precisely how these pressures feed into the politics of reform and reshape national public policy. This article will seek to cast light on this relationship by identifying four influential ‘models of linkage’ between global pressures and regulatory change. It will then comparatively assess their capacity to elucidate the progress of shareholder protection reform in Germany and Italy. While no single model proves fully satisfactory, it will be argued that the weaknesses of two of them can be largely overcome through a process of refinement and integration.
Evaluation of Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrasts in MRI‐Negative Refractory Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Salmenpera Tuuli M. , Symms Mark R. , Rugg‐Gunn Fergus J. , Boulby Philip A. , Free Samantha L. , Barker Gareth J. , Yousry Tarek A. , Duncan John S.
Published: January 2007

Summary:  Purpose: Conventional optimal MRI is unremarkable in 20%–30% of patients with intractable focal epilepsy. These MRI‐negative patients are the most challenging in surgical programs. Our aim was to evaluate the yield and utility of quantitative MRI with novel contrasts in MRI‐negative patients with refractory focal epilepsy, who were potential surgical candidates.

Methods: Ninety‐three consecutive potential surgical candidates with refractory focal epilepsy, 44 with temporal lobe epilepsy, and 49 with frontal lobe epilepsy as determined with ictal scalp video‐EEG; and normal optimal conventional MRI, including hippocampal volumes and T2 measures were investigated with quantitative MRI contrasts. The contrasts comprised fast fluid attenuated inversion recovery based T2 measurement (FFT2), double inversion recovery (DIR), magnetization transfer ratio (MTR), and voxel‐based morphometry of gray matter (VBM). Voxel‐based analyses of whole brain data were used to compare each patient with a control group.

Results: In patients with a putative single focus on scalp video‐EEG telemetry, 16% had concordant FFT2 abnormalities, as did 16% with DIR, 5% with MTR and 9% with VBM. The greatest agreement in the localization of abnormalities was between FFT2 and DIR. Altogether, 31% patients had a focal abnormality with at least one contrast in the lobe of seizure onset. Signal changes outside the lobe of the putative focus were found with FFT2 in 36% patients, with DIR in 42%, with MTR in 6% and with VBM in 7%.

Discussion: Quantitative analysis of MRI contrasts had a low yield of identifying focal abnormalities concordant with putative epileptic foci in patients with unremarkable conventional MRI. Specificity was low for FFT2 and DIR. With the low specificity, data must be interpreted with caution, but in some patients may assist in creating a hypothesis for testing with intracranial electrodes.
Imaging Onset and Propagation of ECT‐induced Seizures
Authors: Enev Miro , McNally Kelly A. , Varghese George , Zubal I. George , Ostroff Robert B. , Blumenfeld Hal
Published: January 2007

Summary:  Purpose: Regions of seizure onset and propagation in human generalized tonic–clonic seizures are not well understood. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) measurements with single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)‐induced seizures provide a unique opportunity to investigate seizure onset and propagation under controlled conditions.

Methods: ECT stimulation induces a typical generalized tonic–clonic seizure, resembling spontaneous generalized seizures in both clinical and electroencephalogram (EEG) manifestations. Patients were divided into two groups based on timing of ictal (during seizure) SPECT tracer injections: 0 s after ECT stimulation (early group), and 30 s after ECT (late group). Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) was used to determine regions of significant CBF changes between ictal and interictal scans on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis.

Results: In the early injection group, we saw increases near the regions of the bitemporal stimulating electrodes as well as some thalamic and basal ganglia activation. With late injections, we observed increases mainly in the parietal and occipital lobes, regions that were quiescent 30 s prior. Significant decreases occurred only at the later injection time, and these were localized to the bilateral cingulate gyrus and left dorsolateral frontal cortex.

Conclusions: Activations in distinct regions at the two time points, as well as sparing of intermediary brain structures, suggest that ECT‐induced seizures propagate from the site of initiation to other specific brain regions. Further work will be needed to determine if this propagation occurs through cortical–cortical or cortico‐thalamo‐cortical networks. A better understanding of seizure propagation mechanisms may lead to improved treatments aimed at preventing seizure generalization.
Genetic Polymorphisms Related to Delirium Tremens: A Systematic Review
Authors: Van Munster Barbara C. , Korevaar Johanna C. , De Rooij Sophia E. , Levi Marcel , Zwinderman Aeilko H.
Published: January 2007

Background: Delirium tremens (DT) is one of the more severe complications of alcohol withdrawal (AW), with a 5 to 10% lifetime risk for alcohol‐dependent patients. The 2 most important neurosystems involved in AW are γ‐aminobutyric acid and glutamate. It is unknown whether these neurosystems are involved in the pathophysiology of DT as well. The candidate gene approach in DT could contribute to this knowledge and demonstrate a possible genetic predisposition for DT. The purpose of this study is to give an overview of all studied genetic polymorphisms in the diverse candidate genes related to DT and to summarize what these studies contribute to insights into the pathophysiology of DT.

Methods: The inclusion criteria for this literature study were articles in English analyzing the association between a genetic polymorphism and DT without other AW syndromes. Studies were identified until February 2006 in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases.

Results: We found 25 studies dealing with 30 polymorphisms, located in 19 different genes. Positive associations were found in 3 different candidate genes involved in the dopamine transmission, 1 gene involved in the glutamate pathway, 1 neuropeptide gene, and 1 cannabinoid gene. Two candidate genes involved in the dopamine transmission, dopamine receptor D3, and solute carrier family 6, were each associated with DT in 2 different study populations. The other 4 positive associations were not replicated in other studies.

Conclusions: A total of 8 positive associations out of 30 polymorphisms makes a genetic base for DT plausible. Understanding the pathophysiological process of the development of DT has, indeed, been augmented by the reviewed genetic association studies. These studies suggest that the regulation of dopaminergic neurotransmission may play an important role.
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test: An Update of Research Findings
Authors: Reinert Duane F. , Allen John P.
Published: January 2007

Background: The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) has been extensively researched to determine its capability to accurately and practically screen for alcohol problems.

Methods: During the 5 years since our previous review of the literature, a large number of additional studies have been published on the AUDIT, abbreviated versions of it, its psychometric properties, and the applicability of the AUDIT for a diverse array of populations. The current article summarizes new findings and integrates them with results of previous research. It also suggests some issues that we believe are particularly in need of further study.

Results: A growing body of research evidence supports the criterion validity of English version of the AUDIT as a screen for alcohol dependence as well as for less severe alcohol problems. Nevertheless, the cut‐points for effective detection of hazardous drinking as well as identification of alcohol dependence or harmful use in women need to be lowered from the originally recommended value of 8 points. The AUDIT‐C, the most popular short version of the AUDIT consisting solely of its 3 consumption items, is approximately equal in accuracy to the full AUDIT. Psychometric properties of the AUDIT, such as test–retest reliability and internal consistency, are quite favorable. Continued research is urged to establish the psychometric properties of non‐English versions of the AUDIT, use of the AUDIT with adolescents and with older adults, and selective inclusion of alcohol biomarkers with the AUDIT in some instances.

Conclusions: Research continues to support use of the AUDIT as a means of screening for the spectrum of alcohol use disorders in various settings and with diverse populations.
Initial Clinical Experience with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Utilizing a Magnetic Navigation System
Authors: GALLAGHER PETER , MARTIN LAURA , ANGEL LORI , TOMASSONI GERY
Published: January 2007

Introduction: The placement of left ventricular (LV) leads during cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) involves many technical difficulties. These difficulties increase procedural times and decrease procedural success rates.

Methods and Results: A total of 50 patients with severe cardiomyopathy (mean LV ejection fraction was 21 ± 6%) and a wide QRS underwent CRT implantation. Magnetic navigation (Stereotaxis, Inc.) was used to position a magnet‐tipped 0.014″ guidewire (Cronus™ guidewire) within the coronary sinus (CS) vasculature. LV leads were placed in a lateral CS branch, either using a standard CS delivery sheath or using a “bare‐wire” approach without a CS delivery sheath. The mean total procedure time was 98.1 ± 29.1 minutes with a mean fluoroscopy time of 22.7 ± 15.1 minutes. The mean LV lead positioning time was 10.4 ± 7.6 minutes. The use of a delivery sheath was associated with longer procedure times 98 ± 32 minutes vs 80 ± 18 minutes (P = 0.029), fluoroscopy times 23 ± 15 minutes vs 13 ± 4 minutes (P = 0.0007) and LV lead positioning times 10 ± 6 minutes vs 4 ± 2 minutes (P = 0.015) when compared to a “bare‐wire” approach. When compared with 52 nonmagnetic‐assisted control CRT cases, magnetic navigation reduced total LV lead positioning times (10.4 ± 7.6 minutes vs 18.6 ± 18.9 minutes; P = 0.005). If more than one CS branch vessel was tested, magnetic navigation was associated with significantly shorter times for LV lead placement (16.2 ± 7.7 minutes vs 36.4 ± 23.4 minutes; P = 0.004).

Conclusions: Magnetic navigation is a safe, feasible, and efficient tool for lateral LV lead placement during CRT. Magnetic navigation during CRT allows for control of the tip direction of the Cronus™ 0.014″ guidewire using either a standard CS delivery sheath or “bare‐wire” approach. Although there are some important limitations to the 0.014″ Cronus™ magnetic navigation can decrease LV lead placement times compared with nonmagnetic‐assisted control CRT cases, particularly if multiple CS branches are to be tested.
True Bipolar Defibrillator Leads Have Increased Sensing Latency and Threshold Compared with the Integrated Bipolar Configuration
Authors: FRAIN BRYAN H. , ELLISON KRISTIN E. , MICHAUD GREGORY F. , KOO CHARLES H. , BUXTON ALFRED E. , KIRK MALCOLM M.
Published: January 2007

Background: Dual‐coil implantable defibrillator (ICD) leads with true bipolar pacing and sensing (quadripolar leads) have been introduced to provide improved sensing characteristics without sacrificing defibrillation efficacy. Electrode configuration has been shown to have little effect on the amplitude or slew rate of the intracardiac electrogram, but does have an effect on the duration of the sensed electrogram. Closer spacing of the electrodes and smaller surface area of the anode may, therefore, result in a different latency of sensing relative to the onset of the QRS complex.

Methods: We tested the difference in ventricular sensing latency between integrated bipolar and true bipolar electrode configurations in 40 patients undergoing ICD implantation for standard indications (Medtronic Sprint Quattro lead in 26 and St. Jude Riata in 16). In addition, we compared R wave amplitude, pacing threshold, impedance, and slew rate.

Results: Sensing latency was significantly longer in the true bipolar configuration (Medtronic Sprint Quattro 45.2 ± 14.7 msec in the true bipolar configuration, vs 37.4 ± 18.2 msec in the integrated bipolar configuration, and St. Jude Riata, 43.5 ± 9.8 msec true bipolar, vs 33.8 ± 10.1 msec integrated bipolar, P < 0.01). There was no difference in R wave amplitude or slew rate. Pacing threshold and impedance were also greater in the true bipolar configuration than in the integrated bipolar configuration.

Conclusion: The true bipolar configuration has a longer sensing latency than the integrated bipolar configuration. In some patients, this may require a longer programmed AV delay to avoid ventricular pseudofusion.
Stabilization of the Coronary Sinus Electrode Position with Coronary Stent Implantation to Prevent and Treat Dislocation
Authors: SZILAGYI SZABOLCS , MERKELY BELA , ROKA ATTILA , ZIMA ENDRE , FULOP GABOR , KUTYIFA VALENTINA , SZUCS GABOR , BECKER DAVID , APOR ASTRID , GELLER LASZLO
Published: January 2007

Introduction: Coronary sinus (CS) leads used for cardiac resynchronization have undergone development in the last years. However, dislocation rate remained high (5–9%). The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and safety of stent implantation in a CS side vein to stabilize the left ventricular lead position after postoperative or intraoperative dislocation of the electrode.

Methods and Results: Thirty‐six patients (age: 64 ± 9.7 years, 19 primary, 17 ischemic cardiomyopathy, NYHA class III: 30, IV: 6) were treated with stenting. The procedure was performed because of postoperative dislocation in seven patients, while dislocation was observed during the implantation in 29 cases. The electrode was repositioned into the desired position and a bare metal coronary stent was introduced via another guide wire. The stent was deposited at 5‐ to 15‐mm proximal to the tip of the electrode with a pressure of 6 to 14 atmospheres. Control angiography showed no blood flow compromise in any of the side branches or in the coronary sinus. Control echocardiography did not show pericardial effusion due to stenting. During follow‐up (11.5 ± 5.5, 2–23 months), left ventricular pacing threshold increased from 2.2 to 5.6 V in one patient, but dislocation was not found by fluoroscopy. Clinically important pacing threshold increase was not detected in the other cases. Impedance measurements did not suggest lead insulation failure.

Conclusion: Stent implantation to stabilize the left ventricular lead position seems to be a useful and safe procedure in the treatment of patients with complicated coronary sinus anatomy or lead instability.
Evaluation of the Fracture Strength for Silicon Carbide Layers in the Tri‐Isotropic‐Coated Fuel Particle
Authors: Hong Seong‐Gu , Byun Thak‐Sang , Lowden Richard A. , Snead Lance L. , Katoh Yutai
Published: January 2007

A program to develop new methods to measure the fracture strength of the chemical vapor deposition SiC coatings in nuclear fuel particles has been carried out. Internal pressurization and crush test techniques were developed and applied to prototype‐sized tubular and hemispherical shell specimens. The fracture strength measured from each test method applying the Weibull two‐parameter distribution, and Weibull parameters were measured. It was shown that data generated with each test technique were independent of the test technique applied. This implies that the developed test methods are reliable and provide reasonable strength data. For the same material, fracture strength varied with the specimen geometry and loading configuration. These size and loading configuration effects on the fracture strength are explained with the concept of effective surface.
Oxide Materials with Low Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Winter Michael R. , Clarke David R.
Published: January 2007

A heuristic approach to identifying candidate materials with low, temperature‐independent thermal conductivity above room temperature is described. On the basis of this approach, a number of compounds with thermal conductivities lower than that of 8 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia and fused silica have been found. Three compounds, in particular, the Zr3Y4O12delta phase, the tungsten bronzes, and the La2Mo2O9phase, exhibit potential for low thermal conductivity applications. As each can exhibit extensive substitutional solid solution with other, high atomic mass ions, there is the prospect that many more compounds with low thermal conductivity will be discovered.
Effect of Pore Size Distribution of Carbon‐Covered Alumina on the Preparation of Submicrometer α‐Alumina Powders
Authors: Wang Pei , Lin Li , Zhu Yuexiang , Xie Youchang
Published: January 2007

Calcining carbon‐covered alumina (CCA) samples at 800°C in an oxygen flow is an efficient method to prepare α‐alumina powders. It is found that the pore size distribution of CCA samples, which depends on the carbon content and the pore size distribution of the precursor alumina used, is one of the key factors for the total conversion of γ‐alumina to α‐alumina and the complete combustion of carbon in the pores of alumina. No matter how high the carbon content, total conversion does not occur for CCA samples prepared from alumina possessing the most probable pore size of about 5.2 nm. Using γ‐alumina with the most probable pore size of 6.1 nm as the precursor of CCA samples, total transformation occurs when the carbon content of CCA ranges from 11.9 to 17.3 wt%, but the color of as‐prepared α‐alumina is not pure white but light gray. Polyethylene glycol (PEG 20 000), added to the sucrose/γ‐alumina system, can expand the pores of CCA samples after carbonization, and calcining of thus‐prepared CCA results in a complete transformation of γ‐alumina to pure white α‐alumina with a particle size of about 1 μm when the carbon content of CCA is between 6 and 19 wt%.
Proton Spin–Spin Relaxation Study of the Effect of Temperature on White Cement Hydration
Authors: Holly R. , Reardon E.J. , Hansson C.M. , Peemoeller H.
Published: January 2007

The chemical and microstructural changes within a white cement paste were characterized in situ using proton nuclear magnetic resonance spin–spin relaxation at 30 MHz, and X‐ray diffraction. Paste samples with a water‐to‐cement ratio of 0.42 were cured at constant temperatures of 2°, 20°, 60°, and 100°C. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spin–spin relaxation allows tracking the evolution of the mixing water into the solid fractions of calcium silicate hydrate, calcium hydroxide, and monosulfate, and the liquid phases: the calcium silicate hydrate interlayer water, gel pore water, and capillary pore water. It is shown that the hydration process is markedly accelerated with increasing hydration temperature, and that proton nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation measurements can quantitatively determine the proportions of water phases, their magnetic resonance characteristics, as well as the setting times of the cement during the hydration process.
Caregiver knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding vitamin A intake by Dominican children
Authors: Mills Jordan P. , Mills Timothy A. , Reicks Marla
Published: January 2007

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a major concern in the Dominican Republic. Successful educational interventions are based on needs assessment data specific to the population for which behavioural change is desired. The purpose of this study was to establish a foundation for nutrition education efforts for caregivers of young children to prevent VAD in the Dominican Republic. A cross‐sectional survey was administered to caregivers (N = 151) from rural/peri‐urban villages in five provinces to assess vitamin A knowledge and attitudes, frequency of consumption of foods rich in vitamin A by an index child (age range 3–9 years), and food‐related practices contributing to vitamin A intake. Caregiver knowledge regarding vitamin A was low in all villages regardless of differences in socio‐economic status and level of education. A majority of the caregivers (67%) reported having a garden, but produce from the garden was thought mainly to provide a financial benefit vs. a nutritional benefit for the family. Several vegetables rich in vitamin A used as seasoning, mango, and unripe banana and plantain were commonly consumed by children as reported by caregivers. Educational interventions should focus on basic vitamin A knowledge regarding sources as well as symptoms of deficiency. Education should also emphasize increasing the variety of foods rich in provitamin A carotenoids grown in home gardens.
Buddhist nuns on the move: an innovative approach to improving breastfeeding practices in Cambodia
Authors: Crookston Benjamin T. , Dearden Kirk A. , Chan Ketsana , Chan Theary , Stoker David D.
Published: January 2007

The benefits of initiating breastfeeding in the first hour of life and exclusively breastfeeding thereafter are well documented. However, little is known about how best to promote these practices. In this study, we assess the impact of Buddhist nuns and wat (pagoda) grannies on optimal breastfeeding behaviours in rural Cambodia. We did so by interviewing randomly selected mothers of infants less than 6 months of age. A total of 440 mothers in programme and control communities completed the baseline survey (before programme start‐up), and 467 mothers responded 1 year later. Mothers’ exposure to breastfeeding promotion activities was high. At follow‐up, 76% of mothers in programme communities indicated that nuns had advised them about breastfeeding, 73% received a home visit and 72% reported attending an educational session. At baseline, mothers in programme communities were 11% more likely (RR = 1.11, CI: 0.74–1.68) than mothers in control communities to initiate breastfeeding in the first hour of life. At follow‐up, they were 62% more likely (RR = 1.62, CI: 1.30–2.01) to do so. Similarly, at baseline, mothers in programme communities were 54% more likely (RR = 1.54, CI: 1.21–1.96) than mothers in control communities to breastfeed exclusively in the previous 24 h. At follow‐up, they were 81% more likely (RR = 1.81, CI: 1.49–2.21) to do so. Programme planners may consider using community‐based volunteers as one strategy to improve breastfeeding practices and child survival.
Probing the molecular determinants of aniline dioxygenase substrate specificity by saturation mutagenesis
Authors: Ang Ee L. , Obbard Jeffrey P. , Zhao Huimin
Published: January 2007

Aniline dioxygenase is a multicomponent Rieske nonheme‐iron dioxygenase enzyme isolated from Acinetobacter sp. strain YAA. Saturation mutagenesis of the substrate‐binding pocket residues, which were identified using a homology model of the α subunit of the terminal dioxygenase (AtdA3), was used to probe the molecular determinants of AtdA substrate specificity. The V205A mutation widened the substrate specificity of aniline dioxygenase to include 2‐isopropylaniline, for which the wild‐type enzyme has no activity. The V205A mutation also made 2‐isopropylaniline a better substrate for the enzyme than 2,4‐dimethylaniline, a native substrate of the wild‐type enzyme. The I248L mutation improved the activity of aniline dioxygenase against aniline and 2,4‐dimethylaniline approximately 1.7‐fold and 2.1‐fold, respectively. Thus, it is shown that the α subunit of the terminal dioxygenase indeed plays a part in the substrate specificity as well as the activity of aniline dioxygenase. Interestingly, the equivalent residues of V205 and I248 have not been previously reported to influence the substrate specificity of other Rieske dioxygenases. These results should facilitate future engineering of the enzyme for bioremediation and industrial applications.
Control of Browning and Microbial Growth on Fresh‐Cut Apples by Sequential Treatment of Sanitizers and Calcium Ascorbate
Authors: Wang Hua , Feng Hao , Luo Yaguang
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  This study investigated the efficacy of different sanitizers, including acidic electrolyzed water (AEW), peroxyacetic acid (POAA), and chlorine, on the inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 on fresh‐cut apples. The effects of the sanitizers and sequential treatments of AEW or POAA followed by calcium ascorbate (CaA) on browning inhibition and organoleptic qualities of fresh‐cut apples stored under different package atmospheres at 4 °C were also evaluated. Changes in package atmosphere composition, product color, firmness, total aerobic bacterial counts, yeast and mold counts, and sensory qualities were examined at 0, 4, 8, 11, and 21 d. Among all sanitizer treatments, POAA and AEW achieved the highest reduction on E. coli O157:H7 populations. The sequential treatment of AEW followed by CaA (AEW‐CaA) achieved the best overall dual control of browning and bacterial growth on fresh‐cut apple wedges. Package atmospheres changed significantly over time and among package materials. Packages prepared with films having an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of 158 had significantly lower O2 and higher CO2 partial pressures than those prepared with 225 OTR films and the Ziploc™ bags. The effect of package atmospheres on the browning of apples is more pronounced on AEW, POAA, and POAA‐CaA‐treated apple wedges than on AEW‐CaA‐treated samples.
Injection‐Salting of pre rigor Fillets of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Birkeland Sveinung , Akse Leif , Joensen Sjurdur , Tobiassen Torbjørn , Skåra Torstein
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  The effects of temperature (−1, 4, and 10 °C), brine concentration (12% and 25% NaCl), injection volumes, and needle densities were investigated on fillet weight gain (%), salt content (%), fillet contraction (%), and muscle gaping in pre rigor brine‐injected fillets of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Increased brine concentration (12% to 25%) significantly increased the initial (< 5 min after injection) and final contraction (24 h after injection) of pre rigor fillets. Increased brine concentration significantly reduced weight gain and increased salt content but had no significant effect on muscle gaping. The temperatures tested did not significantly affect weight gain, fillet contraction, or gaping score. Significant regressions (P < 0.01) between the injection volume and weight gain (range: 2.5% to 15.5%) and salt content (range: 1.7% to 6.5%) were observed for injections of pre rigor fillets. Double injections significantly increased the weight gain and salt content compared to single injections. Initial fillet contraction measured 30 min after brine injection increased significantly (P < 0.01) with increasing brine injection volume but no significant difference in the fillet contraction was observed 12 h after brine injection (range: 7.9% to 8.9%). Brine‐injected post rigor control fillets obtained higher weight gain, higher salt content, more muscle gaping, and significantly lower fillet contraction compared to the pre rigor injected fillets.

Injection‐salting is an applicable technology as a means to obtain satisfactory salt contents and homogenously distribute the salt into the muscle of pre rigor fillets of Atlantic salmon before further processing steps such as drying and smoking.
Characterization of Honey Amylase
Authors: Babacan Sibel , Rand Arthur G.
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  The major α‐amylase in honey was characterized. The optimum pH range and temperature were determined for the enzyme as 4.6 to 5.3 and 55 °C, respectively. The enzyme was stable at pH values from 7 to 8. The half‐lives of the purified enzyme at different temperatures were determined. The activation energy for heat inactivation of honey amylase was 114.6 kJ/mol. The enzyme exhibited Michaelis–Menten kinetics with soluble starch and gave KM and Vmax values of 0.72 mg/mL and 0.018 units/mL, respectively. The enzyme was inhibited by CuCl (34.3%), MgCl2 (22.4%), and HgCl2 (13.4%), while CaCl2, MnCl2, and ZnSO4 did not have any effect. Starch had a protective effect on thermal stability of honey amylase. Therefore, it might be critical to process or control the amylase in honey before incorporation into starch‐containing foods to aid in the preservation of starch functionality. One step could involve heat treating honey with other ingredients, especially those that dilute and acidify the honey environment.
Relationship between Postmortem Changes and Browning of Boiled, Dried, and Seasoned Product Made from Japanese Common Squid (Tedarodes pacificus) Mantle Muscle
Authors: Omura Yuji , Yamazawa Masakatsu , Yamashita Yumiko , Okazaki Emiko , Watabe Shugo
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  To clarify the process that possibly causes discoloration in boiled, dried, and seasoned squid products (“sakiika” or “ikakun” in Japanese), we investigated the relationship of squid freshness with the rate of browning using the boiled, freeze‐dried, and ground squid product model. ATP and its related compounds in Japanese common squid (Tedarodes pacificus) decomposed gradually during storage, yielding hypoxanthine and ribose at 24 h postmortem. The browning rate of the model during preservation as revealed by the increase of the b* value showed a high coefficient in the linear regression against ribose content (R2= 0.767). Only the model made from the squid stored for 24 h postmortem turned brown. These results strongly suggest that ribose produced during storage plays a major role in the browning of dried and seasoned squid products.
Effect of Raffinose on Sucrose Recrystallization and Textural Changes in Soft Cookies
Authors: Belcourt Laura A. , Labuza Theodore P.
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  Sucrose recrystallization and the release of moisture that occurs as molecules of sugar are incorporated into a growing crystal lattice have been hypothesized as the cause of firming in soft cookies over time. Raffinose, a trisaccharide and known sucrose crystallization inhibitor, was tested as a means to inhibit or slow this process. Texture changes in the cookies were quantified using peak force measurements obtained by employing a puncture test. Sucrose recrystallization was successfully suppressed by the addition of 5% raffinose (w/w), as demonstrated by quantitative results obtained using powder x‐ray diffraction and the degree of crystallization correlated with texture. Cookies with added raffinose were found to be significantly softer in texture, as well as having significantly decreased quantities of recrystallized sucrose. The hypothesis that sucrose recrystallization is responsible in part for the firming of cookies was shown to be logical.
Lycopene Inhibits LPS‐Induced Proinflammatory Mediator Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase in Mouse Macrophage Cells
Authors: Rafi Mohamed M. , Yadav Prem Narayan , Reyes Marynell
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT: Lycopene is a fat‐soluble red‐orange carotenoid found primarily in tomatoes and tomato‐derived products, including tomato sauce, tomato paste, and ketchup, and other dietary sources, including dried apricots, guava, watermelon, papaya, and pink grapefruit. In this study, we have demonstrated the molecular mechanism underlying the anti‐inflammatory properties of lycopene using a mouse macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7). Treatment with lycopene (10 μM) inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production (40% compared with the control). Western blotting and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis showed that lycopene treatment decreased LPS‐induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein and mRNA expression in RAW 264.7 cells, respectively. These results suggest that lycopene has anti‐inflammatory activity by inhibiting iNOS proteins and mRNA expressions in mouse macrophage cell lines. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) protein and mRNA expression were not affected by treatment with lycopene.
Effectiveness of Potassium Lactate and Sodium Diacetate in Combination with Irradiation to Control Listeria monocytogenes on Frankfurters
Authors: Knight T.D. , Castillo A. , Maxim J. , Keeton J.T. , Miller R.K.
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  The use of antimicrobial ingredients in combination with irradiation is an effective antilisterial intervention strategy for ready‐to‐eat meat products. Microbial safety was evaluated for frankfurters formulated with 0% or 3% added potassium lactate/sodium diacetate solution and inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes before or after treatment with irradiation (0, 1.8, or 2.6 kGy). Frankfurters were stored aerobically or vacuum packaged and L. monocytogenes counts and APCs were determined while refrigerated. The incorporation of lactate/diacetate with or without irradiation had a strong listeriostatic effect for aerobically stored frankfurters. Outgrowth was suppressed and counts were not different from initial counts (5.2 log CFU/frank compared with 5.0 log CFU/frank); however, those without the additive increased steadily (5.4 to 9.3 log CFU/frank). Irradiation treatments alone had higher L. monocytogenes counts after 3 wk. For vacuum‐packaged frankfurters, both the addition of lactate/diacetate and irradiation were effective at controlling growth after 8 wk. Large and incremental reductions in total counts were seen for irradiation treatments. Initial counts were reduced by 3 log CFU with the application of 1.8 kGy while 2.6 kGy decreased counts over 5 log CFU. These reductions were maintained throughout storage for lactate/diacetate‐treated frankfurters. By 8 wk, L. monocytogenes counts on 1.8 and 2.6 kGy irradiated frankfurters without lactate/diacetate increased to 7.43 and 6.13 log CFU, respectively. Overall, lactate/diacetate retarded the outgrowth of L. monocytogenes on frankfurters throughout aerobic storage and the combination of irradiation and 3% lactate/diacetate reduced and retarded growth of L. monocytogenes, especially during the last 2 wk of vacuum‐packaged storage.
Survival in Food Systems of Lactobacillus rhamnosus R011 Microentrapped in Whey Protein Gel Particles
Authors: Reid A. Ainsley , Champagne C.P. , Gardner N. , Fustier P. , Vuillemard J.C.
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT:  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of whey protein isolate (WPI) gel microentrapment on the viability of Lactobacillus rhamnosus R011 during the production and storage of biscuits, frozen cranberry juice, and vegetable juice. Viability of microentrapped (ME) cells was compared to free cells freeze‐dried in a milk‐based protective solution as well as in a WPI‐based solution (ungelled). During the production of biscuits and their storage for 2 wk at 23 °C, the highest stability was obtained with the cells ME in WPI gel particles. However, free cells prepared in the milk‐based matrix were those that maintained the highest viability during storage of vegetable juice as well as during freezing and storage of cranberry juice. The culture prepared in a WPI‐based solution had the highest drops in viable counts following the heating process of biscuits as well as during storage of vegetable juice and freezing and storage of cranberry juice. Although the WPI‐based solution was not efficient in protecting free cells, it is concluded that the process of microentrapment in WPI can help in protecting the freeze‐dried cells against subsequent acidic and alkaline pH conditions as well as heating and freezing of food products.
Molecular View by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy of the Relationship between Lactocin 705 and Membranes: Speculations on Antimicrobial Mechanism
Authors: Castellano Patricia , Vignolo Graciela , Farías Ricardo Norberto , Arrondo José Luis , Chehín Rosana
Published: January 2007

Lactocin 705 is a bacteriocin whose activity depends upon the complementation of two peptides, termed Lac705α and Lac705β. Neither Lac705α nor Lac705β displayed bacteriocin activity by itself when the growth of sensitive cells was monitored. To obtain molecular insights into the lactocin 705 mechanism of action, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to investigate the interactions of each peptide (Lac705α and Lac705β) with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine liposomal membranes. Both peptides show the ability to interact with the zwitterionic membrane but at different bilayer levels. While Lac705α interacts with the interfacial region inducing dehydration, Lac705β peptide interacts with only the hydrophobic core. This paper presents the first experimental evidence that supports the hypothesis that Lac705α and Lac705β peptides could form a transmembrane oligomer. From the obtained results, a mechanism of action of lactocin 705 on membrane systems is proposed. The component Lac705α could induce the dehydration of the bilayer interfacial region, and the Lac705β peptide could insert in the hydrophobic region of the membrane where the peptide has adequate conditions to achieve the oligomerization.
Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate) Granules at the Early Stages of Formation Are Localized Close to the Cytoplasmic Membrane in
Caryophanon latum
Authors: Jendrossek Dieter , Selchow Olaf , Hoppert Michael
Published: January 2007

Localization of newly synthesized poly(3hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) granules was determined by confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy of Nile red-stained cells and by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). PHB granules of Nile red-stained living cells of
Caryophanon latum
at the early stages of PHB accumulation were frequently found at or close to the cytoplasmic membrane. TEM analysis of the same culture revealed electron-translucent globular structures resembling PHB granules that were nonrandomly distributed in the cell lumen but were frequently found at or close to the cytoplasmic membrane. Immunogold labeling using PHB-specific antiserum confirmed that the electron-translucent structures represented PHB granules. Electron microscopy examination of PHB granules after cell lysis revealed that PHB granules were often associated with membrane vesicles. Nonrandom localization of PHB granules was also found in
Beijerinckia indica
. Cells of this species harbored one PHB granule at each cell pole. Our results show that newly synthesized PHB granules often are close to or even in physical contact with the cytoplasmic membrane. Possible explanations for this unexpected finding and a hypothetical model of PHB granule formation in
C. latum
are discussed.
Longitudinal Changes in the Bacterial Community Composition of the Danube River: a Whole-River Approach
Authors: Winter Christian , Hein Thomas , Kavka Gerhard , Mach Robert L. , Farnleitner Andreas H.
Published: January 2007

The Danube River is the second longest river in Europe, and its bacterial community composition has never been studied before over its entire length. In this study, bacterial community composition was determined by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis of PCR-amplified portions of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene from a total of 98 stations on the Danube River (73 stations) and its major tributaries (25 stations), covering a distance of 2,581 km. Shifts in the bacterial community composition were related to changes in environmental conditions found by comparison with physicochemical parameters (e.g., temperature and concentration of nutrients) and the concentration of chlorophyll
a
(Chl
a
). In total, 43 distinct DGGE bands were detected. Sequencing of selected bands revealed that the phylotypes were associated with typical freshwater bacteria. Apparent bacterial richness in the Danube varied between 18 and 32 bands and correlated positively with the concentration of P-PO
4
(
r
= 0.56) and negatively with Chl
a
(
r
= −0.52). An artificial neural network-based model explained 90% of the variation of apparent bacterial richness using the concentrations of N-NO
2
and P-PO
4
and the distance to the Black Sea as input parameters. Between the cities of Budapest and Belgrade, apparent bacterial richness was significantly lower than that of other regions of the river, and Chl
a
showed a pronounced peak. Generally, the bacterial community composition developed gradually; however, an abrupt and clear shift was detected in the section of the phytoplankton bloom. Large impoundments did not have a discernible effect on the bacterial community of the water column. In conclusion, the riverine bacterial community was largely influenced by intrinsic factors.
Use of microbial antagonism to reduce pathogen levels on produce and meat products: a review
Authors: Kostrzynska M , Bachand A
Published: January 2007

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are often utilized to control food-borne pathogens on produce and on cooked, fermented, or refrigerated meats. Most research to date has focused on the inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella, Clostridium botulinum, and spoilage microorganisms. LAB are excellent candidates for reducing pathogen levels on foods because they inhibit the growth of these microorganisms through various mechanisms without causing unacceptable sensory changes. This review provides an up-to-date look at research directed at maximizing the use of LAB by selecting the most appropriate strains, by learning how to apply them to foods most effectively, and by gaining an understanding of the mechanism by which they inhibit pathogens.Key words: bacterial competition, lactic acid bacteria, food-borne pathogens, meat products, produce.
Diurnal variability in concentrations and sources of Escherichia coli in three streams
Authors: Meays Cindy L , Broersma Klaas , Nordin Rick , Mazumder Asit , Samadpour Mansour
Published: January 2007

Microbial contamination is a major concern for drinking water worldwide. Many monitoring protocols that use one or very few samples are inadequate and introduce a very large margin of error. An intensive sampling program needs to be conducted to characterize the Escherichia coli concentrations of a source water stream prior to establishing a monitoring program so that the sample frequency can be determined statistically, based on an acceptable margin of error. Developing meaningful monitoring programs for managing bacterial water quality is dependant on scientific data that determine the bacterial sources. In this study, three streams from drinking water watersheds were sampled every 15 min over a 24 h period on three different days to determine the concentrations of E. coli and to identify their sources, using ribosomal RNA finger printing (ribotyping). The concentrations of E. coli varied throughout the day in each of the three streams. Ribotyping identified many different animal sources of E. coli in the samples. The sources of E. coli varied significantly with stream (P < 0.001, df = 16). The development of monitoring programs for watersheds needs to consider the watershed, and care needs to be taken in selecting appropriate sample sites, sampling regime, and number of samples taken during each sampling period. This note provides a prescription for the development of monitoring programs for watersheds.Key words: Escherichia coli, fecal bacteria, water quality, ribotyping, source tracking, microbial source tracking, bacterial source tracking.
Expression regulation of the endochitinase-encoding genesechi44from the mycoparasiteStachybotrys elegans
Authors: Morissette D C , Seguin P , Jabaji-Hare S H
Published: January 2007

The regulation of the gene encoding the extracellular chitinase sechi44 produced by the mycoparasite Stachybotrys elegans was studied using real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Alteration of sechi44 expression was observed when S. elegans was in interaction with its host, Rhizoctonia solani, and also when the mycoparasite was grown on minimal media amended with different carbon and nitrogen sources. Direct contact with R. solani leading to mycoparasitism significantly up-regulated the expression of sechi44, although the analysis showed that sechi44 was constitutively expressed but at substantially lower levels. In addition, the study of sechi44 over 12 days showed that its expression followed a cyclical pattern with peaks every 2 days, which suggests that this gene has a role not only in mycoparasitism but also in growth. The addition of external carbon sources, such as N-acetylglucosamine, chitin, and R. solani cell wall (simulated mycoparasitism), triggered an increase in the expression of sechi44, which varied with time and carbon source. Among the carbon sources examined, N-acetylglucosamine induced the highest increase in sechi44 transcript levels. The addition of high concentrations of glucose and ammonium triggered a decrease of sechi44 expression, suggesting that sechi44 is subject to glucose and ammonium repression.Key words: mycoparasitism, Stachybotrys elegans, endochitinase-encoding gene, sechi44, real-time RT–PCR.