bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Micronization Operational Conditions on the Physicochemical Properties of Navy Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Bellido G.G. , Arntfield S.D. , Scanlon M.G. , Cenkowski S.
Published: July 2006

Micronization conditions for processing navy beans were evaluated relative to micronizer outlet temperature, final moisture content, hardness, soluble protein, hydration capacity, and density using a full factorial experiment. Processing variables included conveyer bed slope (SL), setting of gas‐air mixture valve (GS) or gas/air ratio, and distance between conveyer bed and infrared radiation source (DS). As SL and the gas/air ratio increased, the final temperature of the micronized navy beans increased but bean moisture content was reduced. The percent soluble protein and hydration capacity also were reduced as SL increased. The contribution of DS to the characteristics of beans micronized under these conditions was minimal. Recommended conditions were best determined based on outlet temperature.
Product Yield and Gaping in Cold‐smoked Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Fillets as Influenced by Different Injection‐salting Techniques
Authors: Birkeland S. , Skåra T. , Bjerkeng B. , Rørå A.M.B.
Published: July 2006

Product yield and fillet gaping severity were determined in cold‐smoked Atlantic salmon fillets subjected to injection‐salting. Effects of process parameter settings (brine injection pressure, number of repeated injections, needle speed, injection of brine in 1 or 2 directions, and chilled fillet resting before smoking) were tested. Repeated injections increased the yield up to 5.3% (wt/wt). Increasing injection pressure significantly increased the severity of fillet gaping in smoked fillets by 18%. Brine injection directions or needle speed did not affect smoking yield. The stability of the injection system was high. The results show that choice of process parameter settings during injection‐salting affects product yield after smoking.
Development of a Polymerase Chain Reaction System for the Detection of Dog and Cat Meat in Meat Mixtures and Animal Feed
Authors: Abdulmawjood A. , Schönenbrücher H. , Bülte M.
Published: July 2006

The identification of species origin of meat represents a considerable problem for food and animal feed analysis. In the present study a PCR‐mediated method for the detection of dog and cat meat was developed. For this the cytochrome b gene sequence of both species was analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. The use of the restriction enzymes Alu I and Hae III yielded specific restriction profiles characteristic for each species. The meat of both species could additionally be differentiated with species‐specific oligonucleotide primers based on specific parts of the cytochrome b gene sequences characteristic for dog and cat. The use of these oligonucleotide primers allowed a direct identification of dog and cat meat in meat mixtures even after heat treatment.
Microflora and Color of Ground Beef in Gas Exchange Modified Atmosphere Packaging with Abusive Display Temperatures
Authors: Ho C.‐P. , Huang N.‐Y. , McMillin K.W.
Published: July 2006

Gas exchange modified atmosphere packaging (GEMAP) with display gas of 80% O2:20% CO2 retarded microbial growth and improved color stability of ground beef patties compared with vacuum packaging (VP) followed by air‐permeable polyvinylchloride (PVC) overwrapping during 3 d of retail display. Predominant microorganisms for GEMAP were Pseudomonas, Yersinia, Aeromonas, and Enterobacter and for VP‐PVC were Pseudomonas, Brochothrix, Aeromonas, Enterobacter, Moraxella, and Lactobacillus. Lower levels of pathogens were isolated in GEMAP samples with 7 °C than 15 °C display temperature. Patties were darker (lower L*) with those with 15 °C than with 7 °C display and redder (higher a*) in GEMAP than VP‐PVC. Good manufacturing practices should be followed with MAP meat to reduce the risk of pathogenic microbial growth.
γ‐Radiation Decontamination of Alfalfa Seeds Naturally Contaminated with Salmonella Mbandaka
Authors: Thayer D.W. , Boyd G. , Fett W.F.
Published: July 2006

Samples of alfalfa seeds inoculated with Salmonella Mbandaka isolated from a naturally contaminated lot were γ‐irradiated to 1 of 8 doses between 0 and 2.8 kGy, producing a maximum inactivation of 3.3 logs CFU/g. Analysis of the data indicates that the γ‐radiation D value is 0.81 ± 0.02 kGy. An absorbed dose of 4 kGy, but not 3 kGy, eliminated viable S. Mbandaka from naturally contaminated seeds. Results of experiments with different percentages of inoculated seeds indicate that the dose required to inactivate a contaminating pathogen on alfalfa seeds is dependent upon the maximum contamination per seed, not the mean contamination of the lot.
Microbial Inactivation and Electron Penetration in Surimi Seafood During Electron Beam Processing
Authors: Jaczynski J. , Park J.W.
Published: July 2006

Electron penetration and microbial inactivation by electron beam (e‐beam) in surimi seafood were investigated. Dose map revealed that 1‐ and 2‐sided e‐beam could efficiently penetrate 33‐ and 82‐mm thick surimi seafood, respectively. Modeling of microbial inactivation by e‐beam demonstrated that 2‐sided e‐beam may control Staphylococcus aureus if the surimi seafood package is thinner than 82 mm. The De‐beam value for S. aureus was 0.34 kGy. An e‐beam dose of 4 kGy resulted in a minimum of a 7‐log and most likely a 12‐log reduction of S. aureus. Microbial inactivation was slower when frozen samples were subjected to e‐beam.
Modified Atmosphere Packaging Maintains Quality of Table Grapes
Authors: Martínez‐Romero D. , Guillén F. , Castillo S. , Valero D. , Serrano M.
Published: July 2006

Table grapes were packed in either nonperforated polypropylene or perforated polypropylene films and stored at 1 °C for 53 d. Nonperforated polypropylene packages had the highest CO2 and lowest O2 contents, with reduced weight losses and increased berry and skin firmness. Soluble solids concentration increased in unwrapped control grapes as a consequence of the higher weight losses, whereas no significant differences were found for titratable acidity. Both films were equally effective in maintaining skin color, whereas control grapes showed a reduction of color. The highest scores in sensory analyses for crunchiness, juiciness, sourness, and quality were given to nonperforated polypropylene packages after 18 d of storage, and good visual aspect and no off‐flavor were detected after 53 d of cold storage.
Phytic Acid Degradation in Complementary Foods Using Phytase Naturally Occurring in Whole Grain Cereals
Authors: Egli I. , Davidsson L. , Juillerat M.‐A. , Barclay D. , Hurrell R.
Published: July 2006

Complementary foods based on cereals and legumes often contain high amounts of phytic acid, a potent inhibitor of mineral and trace element absorption. The possibility to degrade phytic acid during the production of complementary foods by using whole grain cereals as the phytase source was investigated. Whole grain rye, wheat, or buckwheat (10%) were added to cereal‐legume‐based complementary food mixtures, and phytic acid was shown to be completely degraded in a relatively short time (1.5 to 3 h) when incubated at optimal conditions for cereal phytase. The potential usefulness of the method for industrial production was demonstrated with a complementary food based on wheat and soybean.
Polyphenol Oxidase from Bean Sprouts (Glycine max L.)
Authors: Nagai T. , Suzuki N.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) was purified and characterized from bean sprouts by ammonium sulfate precipitation, DEAE‐Toyopearl 650M, CM‐Toyopearl 650M, SuperQ‐Toyopearl 650S and QAE‐Toyopearl 550C column chromatographies. Substrate staining of the crude extract on electrophoresis showed the presence of 2 isozymic forms of this enzyme. The molecular weight of the purified enzyme was estimated to be about 54 kDa. The optimum pH was 9.0 and optimum temperature 40 °C. Heat inactivation occurred about 30 °C. PPO showed activity to catechol, pyrogallol and dopamine. These compounds such as ascorbic acid, L‐cysteine, 2‐mercaptoethanol, and glutathione used was the effective inhibitor. Enzyme activity was maintained for 7 d at 4 °C but suddenly decreased after 8 d.
Effect of Fish Attributes and Handling Stress on Quality of Smoked Arctic Char Fillets
Authors: Jittinandana S. , Kenney P.B. , Slider S.D. , Mazik P. , Bebak‐Williams J. , Hankins J.A.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Arctic char hatched at 6.5 and 9.5 °C and later divided into large, medium, and small size groups were assigned to processing (1) without handling stress, (2) immediately after handling stress, (3) at 24 h after handling stress, and (4) at 48 h after handling stress. Stress reduced gut weight and muscle a* value, increased muscle L* for the 9.5 °C group, decreased muscle L* for the 6.5 °C group, and increased fillet weight loss after brining. Fillets from the stressed, 9.5 °C group absorbed more brine, increasing salt and ash content of smoked products. A 24‐h stress recovery decreased total‐ and water‐phase salt. Fish hatched at 9.5 °C appeared to be more sensitive to handling stress than fish hatched at 6.5 °C. A 48‐h stress recovery increased gut weight and enhanced muscle L*.
Production of Volatiles from Fatty Acids and Oils by Irradiation
Authors: Lee E.J. , Ahn D.U.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: To understand the mechanisms of off‐odor production in irradiated meat, the volatile compounds produced from individual fatty acids by irradiation were identified. Nonirradiated oil emulsions prepared with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) produced many volatile compounds, but the amounts of volatiles generally decreased after irradiation. Although volatile profiles of fatty acid emulsions were changed by irradiation, the odor characteristics and intensity between irradiated and nonirradiated fatty acid emulsions were not different. Thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) values indicated that irradiation accelerated lipid oxidation during subsequent storage, but the volatiles produced by lipid oxidation were not the major contributors of off odor in irradiated samples.
Effect of Chemically Modified Soy Proteins and Ficin‐tenderized Meat on the Quality Attributes of Sausage
Authors: Ramezani R. , Aminlari M. , Fallahi H.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this investigation was to use ficin‐tenderized meat and cysteine‐modified soy proteins in the production of bologna and to evaluate the effect of these modifications on water‐holding capacity (WHC), emulsion stability (ES), texture, and protein solubility. The effect of ficin on meat protein was also evaluated by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). Results indicated that both ficin‐tenderized meat and modified soy proteins substantially improved WHC, ES, and other quality factors. SDS‐PAGE results showed the disappearance of several protein bands in ficin‐treated meat. Solubility of meat proteins increased when ficin was used for meat tenderization. The results of this study indicated that some quality attributes of meat products can be improved by enzymatic and chemical modification of protein sources in the manufacture of meat products.
Effects of Antioxidants in Polyethylene Film on Fresh Beef Color
Authors: Moore M.E. , Han I.Y. , Acton J.C. , Ogale A.A. , Barmore C. R. , Dawson P.L.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: BHA, BHT, rosemary extract, and α‐tocopherol were incorporated into low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) at the 0.1% level and thermoformed into 25‐mm‐dia, 0.25‐mm‐thick discs, which were exposed to the surface of fresh beef and held in contact with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) overwrap. On d 0, the control treatment with only the PVC overwrap had greater “a” (redness) values, probably due to greater transmission of oxygen to the meat surface. However, by d 7, the control with only the PVC overwrap had lower redness values than any of the other treatments. By d 8 and 9, the meat packaged with the BHA‐impregnated film had higher “a” (redness) values than any of the other film treatments
Assessment of the Oxidative and Hydrolytic Degradation of Oils Used as Liquid Medium of In‐oil Preserved Vegetables
Authors: Caponio F. , Gomes T. , Summo C.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: An experimental investigation was carried out on several in‐oil preserved vegetables to evaluate the quality and genuineness of different oils used as liquid medium. The results obtained showed that the lipids released by vegetables to the oils are negligible, and that the routine analyses are not fully effective to assess the quality of the oils. More reliable results may be achieved from the percent determination of trans isomers, and from the classes of oxidation, polymerization, and hydrolysis substances contained in the polar compounds. In sunflower seed oils, much higher contents of trans isomers (p < 0.001), triglyceride oligopolymers, and oxidized triglycerides (p < 0.01) have been observed as compared to olive and extra virgin olive oils.
Physicochemical Properties and Functionality of Rice Bran Protein Hydrolyzate Prepared from Heat‐stabilized Defatted Rice Bran with the Aid of Enzymes
Authors: Tang S. , Hettiarachchy N.S. , Horax R. , Eswaranandam S.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Molecular size, thermal properties, hydrophobicity, nitrogen solubility, and emulsifying and foaming properties were determined for protein products from heat‐stabilized defatted rice bran. The freeze‐dried and spray‐dried proteins had molecular sizes between 6.5 to 66.2 kDa; denaturation temperatures of 84.1 and 84.6 °C, enthalpies of 2.5 and 2.37 J/g, hydrophobicities of 20677 and 22611, maximum solubilities of 66.3% and 66.1% at pH 12.0, emulsifying capacities of 0.19 and 0.18, emulsion stabilities of 16.5 and 17.3 min, foam capacities of 4.0 mL and 4.2 mL, and negligible foam stabilities. These results demonstrated that the extracted rice bran protein has potential as a nutraceutical ingredient in food applications.
Rheology and Relationship among Rheological Parameters of Cross‐Linked Waxy Maize Starch Dispersions Heated in Fructose Solutions
Authors: Youn K‐S. , Rao M.A.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Dispersions of 5% cross‐linked waxy maize starch heated in Newtonian aqueous fructose solutions, 0 to 600 g per kg, exhibited either thixotropic or antithixotropic flow behavior, and viscoelastic behavior. The mean starch granule dia in the dispersions changed slightly with fructose content. Values of G' of the dispersions were higher than those of G', reflecting gel‐like behavior of the dispersions. Values of the first normal stress coefficient predicted from dynamic rheological and apparent viscosity data based on the Goddard‐Miller model were in reasonable agreement with experimental values.
A Process for Increasing the Free Fat Content of Spray‐dried Whole Milk Powder
Authors: Koc A.B. , Heinemann P.H. , Ziegler G.R.
Published: July 2006

Exposing spray‐dried whole milk powder to high shear and elevated temperature in a twin‐screw continuous mixer increased the free fat content. The effects of operating conditions (powder feed rate, processor screw speed, and process temperature) on lactose crystallinity, particle size distribution, color, and moisture content of spray‐dried whole milk powder were investigated using response surface methodology. Exposure to elevated temperatures and high shear: (a) increased the free fat to more than 80%, (b) crystallized the lactose, (c) reduced the average volume‐based particle size, and (d) broadened the particle size distribution. The raw whole milk powder with creamy‐white color turned into an oily paste with bright‐yellow color. Processing enhanced the functional properties of spray‐dried whole milk powder for milk chocolate manufacture.
Antimicrobial activity of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract on Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Xie L. , Hettiarachchy N.S. , Jane M.E. , Johnson M.G.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The antimicrobial activities of Ginkgo biloba leaf extract (GBE) and the combined effects of GBE and sodium EDTA (sodium Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) against Listeria monocytogenes were determined at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 37 °C. Listeria monocytogenes grown at 37 °C for 24 h was inoculated (6 to 7 log CFU/mL) into BHI broth containing either GBE or GBE and EDTA (1.6 mg/mL) with various GBE concentrations of 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 15.0, or 20.0% vol/vol and stored at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 37 °C. The inhibitory effect of the GBE was more pronounced at low temperature of 4 °C. GBE was effective in inhibiting microbial growth. Addition of EDTA enhanced antimicrobial activity of GBE.
Survival and Metabolic Activity of Microencapsulated Bifidobacterium longum in Stirred Yogurt
Authors: Adhikari K. , Mustapha A. , Grün I.U.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Live cells of Bifidobacterium longum, microencapsulated in K‐carrageenan, were added to stirred yogurt after fermentation (pH 4.6) and stored at 4.4 °C for 30 d. Cell enumeration indicated no decline of encapsulated cell number in yogurt samples, while there was significant reduction in nonencapsulated cell population (89.3% for B. longum B6 and 91.8% for B. longum ATCC 15708). Ion‐exchange high‐performance liquid chromatography showed comparable amounts of lactic and acetic acids in all samples, indicating little metabolic activity by bifidobacteria in experimental yogurts. Consumer sensory analysis of blackberry‐flavored yogurts revealed that samples containing encapsulated bifidobacteria had a grainy texture. Results suggested that microencapsulation protected bifidobacteria from the low pH of yogurt.
Inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes on Hot Dogs Using Antimicrobial Whey Protein‐based Edible Casings
Authors: Cagri A. , Ustunol Z. , Osburn W. , Ryser E.T.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Whey protein isolate (WPI) films (pH 5.2) containing p‐aminobenzoic acid (PABA) were heat‐sealed to form casings. Hot dogs prepared with WPI, collagen, or natural casings were cooked, surface‐inoculated to contain 103 Listeria monocytogenes CFU/g, and examined for numbers of L. monocytogenes, mesophilic aerobic bacteria (MAB), lactic acid bacteria (LAB), and yeast/mold during 42 d of storage at 4 °C. Listeria populations on hot dogs prepared with WPI‐1.0%‐PABA casings remained relatively unchanged; however, numbers of Listeria on hot dogs prepared with WPI‐0.0%‐PABA, collagen, and natural casings increased about 2.5 logs during 42 d of refrigerated storage. Populations of MAB, LAB, and mold on WPI‐1.0%‐PABA casings were 1 to 3 logs lower compared to others casings.
The Effects of Irradiation, High Hydrostatic Pressure, and Temperature during Pressurization on the Characteristics of Cooked‐reheated Salmon and Catfish Fillets
Authors: McKenna D.R. , Nanke K.E. , Olson D.G.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Fully‐cooked salmon and catfish fillets were treated by ionizing radiation (0, 3, or 6 kGy), high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) (0, 414, or 690 MPa), 2 different temperatures during pressurization (ambient‐HHP approximately equal to 21 °C, or heated‐HHP = 70 °C), and combinations of the treatments. Kramer shear values increased for salmon and catfish fillets treated by HHP, heated‐HHP, and a combination treatment. Tenderness and juiciness scores of salmon and catfish fillets were lower with HHP, heated‐HHP, and a combination treatment. Irradiation decreased CIE a* values of salmon, and CIE b* values of salmon and catfish. Irradiation increased tenderness and juiciness scores of salmon and increased flavor intensity of catfish.
Modelling the dynamics of introduced populations in the narrow‐endemic Centaurea corymbosa: a demo‐genetic integration
Authors: KIRCHNER FLORIAN , ROBERT ALEXANDRE , COLAS BRUNO
Published: July 2006

In the context of the restoration of an endangered species, population viability analysis represents a useful tool for assessing the effectiveness of different possible management strategies before implementation. However, despite the consensus that demographic and genetic mechanisms are both involved and interact in the process of extinction, few attempts have been made to examine their combined impacts on population viability in a particular species.

We integrated specific data resulting from 10‐year multidisciplinary investigations into a descriptive model to simulate the dynamics of an introduced population of the rare self‐incompatible plant species Centaurea corymbosa. The model allowed us to examine the interplay between demographic processes and genetic self‐incompatibility in the particular habitat conformation of the species, alternating suitable and unsuitable sites within a population along cliffs. Population growth and extinction risk were compared for different introduction strategies.

Population persistence mainly depended on the number of introduced seeds and on their initial spatial distribution within the population (single vs. multisite introduction). In most cases, a multisite introduction resulted in faster population growth and higher viability than a single‐site introduction.

As expected, a strong negative impact of the self‐incompatibility system was observed on population dynamics and viability. However, because of positive feedback between demographic and genetic processes, this impact differed among introduction strategies: it was less severe when seeds were distributed among suitable sites, which also limited the loss of self‐incompatibility alleles. Moreover, self‐incompatibility contributed to the positive relationship between flowering plant density and fertilization rate.

Synthesis and applications. Our results provide strong management guidelines for future introductions of C. corymbosa regarding the number of seeds required (> 800) and the benefits of introducing them into several sites to achieve population persistence. Further, the study highlights the general importance of integrating demography and genetics to compare the effectiveness of different management strategies.
Soil history as a primary control on plant invasion in abandoned agricultural fields
Authors: KULMATISKI ANDREW , BEARD KAREN H. , STARK JOHN M.
Published: July 2006

Abandoned agricultural (AA) fields are often invaded by exotic plants. This observation has been difficult to explain because agricultural practices change nearly every aspect of an ecosystem. Restoring native plants to AA fields is likely to require a prioritized understanding of the many mechanisms through which agriculture encourages exotic and discourages native plant growth.

Using 660 experimental plots in three sites in Methow Valley, Washington, USA, we determined the relative role of neighbour removal, propagule addition, plant–soil feedback, soil disturbance and fungal restriction to explain why exotics cover 38% of the ground in AA fields and 3% of the ground in non‐agricultural (NA) fields.

After three growing seasons, neighbour removal improved exotic growth from 3% to 11% cover in NA fields but had no effect in AA fields. Propagule addition did not increase exotic growth above natural recruitment. Differences in soil history, a proxy for plant–soil feedback, explained an increase in exotic growth from 9% in NA fields to 39% in AA fields. Soil disturbance improved exotic growth from 9% to 16% cover in NA fields but had no effect in AA fields. Fungicide reduced exotic growth from 39% to 28% cover in AA soils but had no effect on exotic growth in NA soils. Native plant growth never differed by more than 5% cover among treatments.

Soil carbon, nitrogen (organic, inorganic and mineralization), phosphorus concentrations and fungal biomass were better associated with plant type (exotic or native) than agricultural history, suggesting that exotics facilitated their own growth by maintaining small beneficial fungal populations and fast nutrient cycling rates.

Synthesis and application. Soil history was more important than neighbour removal in determining exotic and native plant distributions. Where exotics rely on plant–soil feedback or legacies of agricultural disturbance, native plant restoration may require soil‐based management. In these cases, changing mycorrhizal fungal abundance, increasing soil pathogen loading and slowing nutrient cycling rates may help restore native plants to invaded fields.
Community dwelling adults’ perception of interpersonal trust vs. trust in health care providers
Authors: Hupcey Judith E. , Miller Jamie
Published: July 2006

Aims.  This study investigated community dwelling adults’ definition of trust in health care providers vs. interpersonal trust, description of the attributes of a trustworthy provider, factors that influenced the development and loss of trust.

Background.  Trust is an important part of health care relationships, however, the meaning of trust for patients is not well understood. Health care providers need to understand the meaning of trust in order to build and maintain therapeutic relationships with their patients.

Design.  A descriptive qualitative research design was used to investigate perceptions of trust.

Methods.  Semi‐structured open‐ended interviews were carried out with 32 community dwelling adults. The participants were recruited from church groups, senior health programs and other community programs. The interviews were thematically analysed for: definitions of interpersonal trust vs. trust in a health care provider, attributes of a trustworthy provider and factors that were pivotal in the development and loss of trust in a health care provider.

Results.  Trust in health care providers differed from interpersonal trust in the role‐specific attributes of the individuals. Trust, although influenced by having confidence in the provider's competence, was strongly tied to the interpersonal caring attributes of the provider. Loss of trust, on the other hand, was more closely allied with the issues of competency.

Conclusions.  Perceptions of trust varied greatly among this sample, reinforcing the significance of tailoring our approach to patients on an individual basis.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Assuming that we will be trusted based on our role as nurses may not facilitate the development of a therapeutic relationship with some patients. Nurses and other health care providers need to be acutely aware of our patient's trust and clues of pending loss of trust because, as this study and other prior studies have shown, once trust in a provider is lost, it is nearly impossible to rebuild.
Relatives in end‐of‐life care – part 1: a systematic review of the literature the five last years, January 1999–February 2004
Authors: Andershed Birgitta
Published: July 2006

Aim.  To review systematically research conducted during the past five years focusing on the relatives’ situation and needs in end‐of‐life care.

Background and aim.  That relatives make a large contribution in the care of the dying is well‐known. In this situation, relatives often have to solve many new practical problems in the care as well as dealing with the sorrow of both themselves and the dying person. In recent years, palliative care has been developed in many countries and many new studies have been carried out.

Methods.  A systematic search of the literature was performed in the CINAHL and Medline databases. Of the 94 papers analysed, there were 59 qualitative and 35 quantitative studies with differing designs. The studies were carried out in 11 countries and were published in 34 different journals.

Results.  The results were categorized in two main themes with several subthemes: (1) being a close relative – the situation: (i) exposed position – new responsibility, (ii) balance between burden and capacity and (iii) positive values; (2) being a close relative – needs: (i) good patient care, (ii) being present, (iii) knowing and communicating and (iv) support from and trusting relationship with the professional. The relative's feelings of security and trust in the professional were found to be of great importance.

Conclusion.  More than twice as many studies had a descriptive/explorative design, which is of importance in the assessment of evidence. However, different studies complement one another and in summary, it can be said that analytic evidence is unequivocal: good patient care, communication, information and the attitude of the professional are of decisive importance regarding relatives' situation. These results are also in accord with earlier review studies.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Staff members have a great deal of responsibility for assuring that the patient feels as good as possible, facilitating relatives’ involvement based on the family's wishes and limiting the stress and difficulties experienced by the family. The results showed that the relative's satisfaction could depend on the attitude of the professional as well as on good communication, good listening and good information. This can also be viewed as a prerequisite for the professional to get to know the family and to provide ‘care in the light’.
Predictive value of serum globulin levels for the extent of hepatic fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection
Authors: Schmilovitz‐Weiss H. , Tovar A. , Halpern M. , Sulkes J. , Braun M. , Rotman Y. , Tur‐Kaspa R. , Ben‐Ari Z.
Published: July 2006

Summary.  The mechanism underlying disease progression in hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is unknown. Immunoglobulins stimulate the proliferative activity of rat hepatic stellate cells in vitro. A strong association was found between serum immunoglobulin levels and hepatic fibrosis in patients with hepatitis C virus infection. Our objective was to determine if the same index could also be used in patients with chronic HBV infection. The records of 100 patients with biochemical, serological, virological and histological evidence of chronic HBV infection were reviewed for background factors and serum globulin and immunoglobulin levels. Mean (±SD) patient age was 44.0 ± 14.7 years; 80 (80%) were male. Of the factors found to be significant on univariate analysis, the only significant predictors of severe hepatic fibrosis (stage ≥2) on multivariate analysis were serum globulin level [odds ratio (OR) 5.97, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.82–19.53, P = 0.0004], platelet count (OR 0.98, CI 0.97–0.99, P = 0.001), and immunoglobulin G (IgG) level (OR 1.003, CI 1.000–1.007, P < 0.042) but not IgA, alkaline phosphatase, albumin or international normalized ratio. For each increase of 0.33 mg/dL in serum globulin, there was a 0.5 point increase in the stage of hepatic fibrosis. There appears to be a strong association between levels of serum globulin and IgG and extent of hepatic fibrosis in patients with chronic HBV infection. They can serve as noninvasive markers of hepatic fibrosis and, if confirmed, have important implications for the management of patients with chronic HBV infection.
Helminths and HIV infection: epidemiological observations on immunological hypotheses
Authors: BROWN M. , MAWA P. A. , KALEEBU P. , ELLIOTT A. M.
Published: July 2006

Parasitic helminths have co‐evolved with the mammalian immune system. Current hypotheses suggest that immunological stimulation in the presence of helminths is balanced by immuno‐regulation and by the broad spectrum of mechanisms possessed by helminths for countering the host immune response. The degree to which this balance is perfected, and the mechanisms by which this is achieved, vary between helminth species; we suggest that this is reflected not only in the degree of pathology induced by helminths but also in a variety of relationships with HIV infection and HIV disease. Available epidemiological data regarding interactions between helminths and HIV are largely observational; results are variable and generally inconclusive. Well designed, controlled intervention studies are required to provide definitive information on the species‐specific nature of these interactions and on the advantages, disadvantages and optimal timing of de‐worming in relation to HIV infection.
Overexpression of Arabidopsis thaliana LTL1, a salt‐induced gene encoding a GDSL‐motif lipase, increases salt tolerance in yeast and transgenic plants
Authors: NARANJO MIGUEL ÁNGEL , FORMENT JAVIER , ROLDÁN MARTA , SERRANO RAMÓN , VICENTE OSCAR
Published: July 2006

Genes involved in the mechanisms of plant responses to salt stress may be used as biotechnological tools for the genetic improvement of salt tolerance in crop plants. This would help alleviate the increasing problem of salinization of lands cultivated under irrigation in arid and semi‐arid regions. We have isolated a novel halotolerance gene from Arabidopsis thaliana, A. thaliana Li‐tolerant lipase 1 (AtLTL1), on the basis of the phenotype of tolerance to LiCl conferred by its expression in yeast. AtLTL1 encodes a putative lipase of the GDSL‐motif family, which includes bacterial and a very large number of plant proteins. In Arabidopsis, AtLTL1 expression is rapidly induced by LiCl or NaCl, but not by other abiotic stresses. Overexpression of AtLTL1 increases salt tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis plants, compared to non‐transformed controls, allowing germination of seeds in the presence of toxic concentrations of LiCl and NaCl, and stimulating vegetative growth, flowering and seed set in the presence of NaCl. These results clearly point to a role of AtLTL1 in the mechanisms of salt tolerance. In addition, we show that AtLTL1 expression is also activated, although only transiently, by salicylic acid (SA), suggesting that the lipase could also be involved in defence reactions against pathogens.
Epstein–Barr virus in CD30+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma involving the skin and lymphomatoid papulosis in South Korea
Authors: Kim You Chan , Yang Woo Ick , Lee Min‐Geol , Kim Soo Nam , Cho Kwang Hyun , Lee Seok Jong , Lee Mi Woo , Koh Jai Kyoung
Published: July 2006

Background  Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐associated cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders are prevalent in Asia, and less frequent in Western countries.

Aim  To elucidate the possible association of EBV with CD30+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) involving the skin and lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) in South Korea.

Methods  In situ hybridization for EBV‐encoded small RNA (EBER) and immunohistochemistry including viral latent membrane protein‐1 (LMP‐1) were performed on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded skin specimens of 26 cases of LyP and 16 cases of CD30+ ALCL involving the skin which were selected from six university hospital medical centers in South Korea.

Results  In situ hybridization studies showed positivity of the neoplastic cells for EBER in two of 16 cases of CD30+ ALCL and in none of the cases of LyP. One EBER‐positive case was cutaneous CD30+ ALCL with concurrent lymph node involvement. The other was CD30+ ALCL involving the skin and other organs, including lymph nodes, bone, lung, and spleen. Immunostaining for LMP‐1 was also positive only for the two cases of EBER‐positive CD30+ ALCL.

Conclusion  LyP and primary cutaneous CD30+ ALCL are very rarely associated with EBV in South Korea.
Myiasis owing to Dermatobia hominis in a HIV‐infected subject: Treatment by topical ivermectin
Authors: Clyti E. , Nacher M. , Merrien L. , El Guedj M. , Roussel M. , Sainte‐Marie D. , Couppié P.
Published: July 2006

We report the occurence of myiasis owing to Dermatobia hominis (Dh) in a HIV‐infected subject. HIV infection did not modify the pathogenicity of myiasis. However, the clinical presentation seemed unusual with voluminous inflammatory nodules. Use of topical ivermectin killed the larvae and facilitated their extraction.
Cross‐reactivity of Anisakis simplex: possible role of Ani s 2 and Ani s 3
Authors: Guarneri Fabrizio , Guarneri Claudio , Benvenga Salvatore
Published: July 2006

Background  Anisakis simplex is a fish parasite that can cause allergy in humans. The multiple cross‐reactivities of this nematode make diagnostic tests for allergy unreliable, because of frequent false‐positive results. To date, only four allergens of A. simplex have been characterized, but their role in cross‐reactivity is largely unknown.

Methods  We performed an amino acid sequence homology analysis, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) criteria, to identify allergens likely to be cross‐reactive with Ani s 2 (paramyosin) and Ani s 3 (tropomyosin) of A. simplex. Next, within segments shared by Ani s 2 or Ani s 3 and homologous proteins, we searched for the occurrence of binding motifs of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles (DRB1*1502, DQB1*0601, or DRB1*0404) known to be genetic risk factors for the development of allergy to A. simplex.

Results  We identified a number of proteins belonging to various organisms, which are significantly similar to (and therefore are likely to cross‐react with) Ani s 2 and Ani s 3. The presence of binding motifs of HLA DRB1*0404 in Ani s 2, Ani s 3, and homolog proteins also supports our hypothesis.

Conclusions  Our results provide a possible molecular explanation of some cross‐reactivities reported for A. simplex, and suggest additional ones.
Decision aids in routine practice: lessons from the breast cancer initiative
Authors: Silvia Kerry A. , Sepucha Karen R.
Published: July 2006

Background  Many decision aids have been developed to help patients make treatment and screening decisions; however, little is known about implementing them into routine clinical practice.

Objective  To assess the feasibility of implementing a patient decision aid (PtDA) for the early stage breast cancer surgical decision into routine clinical care.

Design  Structured individual interviews.

Setting and participants  A convenience sample of providers from nine sites, including two community resource centres, a community hospital and six academic centres.

Main outcome measures  Usage data, barriers to and resources for implementing the PtDAs.

Results  Six of the nine sites were using the PtDAs with patients. Two sites were primarily using a scheduling system and four sites relied on a lending system. For the academic centres, the keys to successful implementation included integrating the PtDA into the flow of patients through the centre and having physicians who recommended it to patients. At the community centres, the keys to successful implementation included an informed staff and the flexibility to get the PtDAs to patients in different ways. Barriers that limited or prevented sites from using the PtDA included a lack of clinical support, a lack of system support, competing priorities and scheduling problems.

Conclusions  It is feasible to implement a breast cancer PtDA into routine clinical care at academic centres and community resource centres. Future research should assess the effectiveness of PtDAs in routine clinical care as well as resources and barriers to their implementation in community hospitals.
Behavioural Response of Bats to Perceived Predation Risk While Foraging
Authors: Baxter Daniel J. M. , Psyllakis Jennifer M. , Gillingham Michael P. , O'Brien Erin L.
Published: July 2006

The ability to detect and respond to predation risk while foraging may have important fitness consequences for prey organisms. Anti‐predator behaviours may reduce the probability of mortality because of predation, but they may also be associated with reduced foraging efficiency. Several behaviours of bats have been suggested to serve as anti‐predator responses, and there is evidence that predation, particularly by avian predators such as owls, may be an important cause of bat mortality. Previous studies have attempted to determine whether predator presence affects bat behaviour when emerging from roost sites, but few have examined effects of predator presence on bat behaviour while foraging. In this study, we investigated whether foraging bats respond to predator cues by presenting bats with an acoustic cue simulating the presence of an owl. Within matched trials, which were conducted at different locations each of 18 nights, significantly fewer bat detections were recorded at owl playback stations than at control stations (no auditory cue), suggesting an avoidance response by bats. An acoustic control (i.e. station playing woodpecker calls), however, did not have significantly more detections than the stations playing the owl calls, suggesting that bats may simply be avoiding noise and more detailed investigation is warranted. Although evidence for owl predation on bats is minimal in North America, results of this study may indicate that the perceived presence of owls may represent a factor influencing the behaviour of bats while foraging.
Non‐target effects of three biorationale insecticides on two endolarval parasitoids of Liriomyza sativae (Dipt., Agromyzidae)
Authors: Babul Hossain M. , Poehling H.‐M.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Side effects of two azadirachtin formulations [NeemAzal‐U (17% azadirachtin) and NeemAzal®‐T/S (1% azadirachtin)] and two biorationale pesticides – Success® (Spinosad) and Abamectin (Avermectin) – on two endoparasitoids Opius (Opiothorax) chromatomyiae and Neochrysocharis formosa of Liriomyza sativae were investigated under laboratory conditions. The eggs of O. chromatomyiae, and the eggs, larvae and pupae of N. formosa within the host or within the plant/host complex were exposed to NeemAzal, Success and Abamectin at different dose rates. Adult emergence of O. chromatomyiae from parasitized L. sativae in NeemAzal‐U (0.75, 1.5, 2.25 and 3 g/l water) drenched soil was only slightly lower than from untreated control hosts. In contrast, adult emergence of unparasitized L. sativae was almost completely inhibited by NeemAzal‐U, indicating a high, direct toxicity. Development of O. chromatomyiae within L3 of L. sativae was very much affected from topical applications of NeemAzal®‐T/S, Success® and Abamectin at particular dose rates. Spraying of tomato leaves with NeemAzal®‐T/S revealed no detrimental effect on the adult emergence of N. formosa developing in mining L2 of L. sativae. This was in contrast to Success® and Abamectin which strongly affected N. formosa adult emergence when applied at different immature developmental stages of N. formosa.
Synergism of enzyme inhibitors and mechanisms of insecticide resistance in Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hom., Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Kang C. Y. , Wu G. , Miyata T.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Synergism of enzyme inhibitors and mechanisms of insecticide resistance in Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hom., Aleyrodidae), collected from the commercial cruciferous (Brassica oleracea var. italica L.) vegetable fields in Shangjie, Minhou County, Fujian, China (Sj), were studied by using the dry film method and biochemical analysis. In comparison with the insecticide‐susceptible insectarium population of B. tabaci, the resistance ratios in the field population were determined to be 29.3 for methamidophos, 21.8 for chlorpyrifos, 2.2 for phoxim, 72.4 for fenvalerate, 9.4 for avermectin, 5.5 for emamectin benzoate, 1.8 for spinosad, 11.6 for fipronil and 8.0 for imidacloprid. The field population of B. tabaci displayed significantly low acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, but high AChE insensitivity to methamidophos and dichlorvos, as well as high carboxylesterase (CarE) activity. Piperonyl butoxide (PB), triphenyl phosphate (TPP) and diethyl maleate (DEM) showed low synergistic effects on the susceptibility to the nine insecticides in the insetarium population of B. tabaci. On the other hand, in the field population of B. tabaci, high synergism ratios to the nine insecticides with PB, to methamidophos, chlorpyrifos, phoxim, fenvalerate and imidacloprid with TPP, and to methamidophos and avermectin with DEM were found. Significant inhibition of AChE activity by PB and of glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST) activity by DEM in the insectarium and field population, of CarE activity by PB, TPP and DEM in the insectarium populations, and of CarE activity by PB and DEM in the field population were found in vivo. The results suggest that the resistance to organophosphates in B. tabaci was associated partly with AChE insensitivity. Oxidative degradation was believed to be the major mechanism of insecticide resistance in B. tabaci found in Sj. Hydrolytic reactions might also be partially involved in the resistance in some cases. These findings indicate that more than one target besides the traditional ones for PB, TPP or DEM might exist in B. tabaci. This might provide a plausible explanation for the improvement in insecticide toxicity by the three enzyme inhibitors. Especially, the highest synergism of PB on the nine insecticides could now be explained by PB's multiple attack on the activity of Car or AChE in B. tabaci.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Slovak Isolate of Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus (ZYMV) Provides Further Evidence of a Close Molecular Relationship Among Central European ZYMV Isolates*
Authors: Glasa M. , Pittnerová S.
Published: July 2006

The complete nucleotide sequence of a Slovak isolate of Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV‐Kuchyna) was determined. The viral genome contains 9593 nucleotides, excluding the poly(A) tail, and encodes a putative polyprotein of 3080 amino acid residues. All characteristic motifs of potyviral proteins’ fundamental viral properties and vector transmission are conserved in the ZYMV‐Kuchyna genome. The entire sequence shares identities of 90.4–98.8% and 78–98.8% with 12 sequenced ZYMV isolates at the nucleotide and amino acid levels, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete capsid protein (CP) sequences of more than 50 geographically different ZYMV isolates has shown that Central European isolates are closely related and form a phylogenetically homogeneous group.
Molecular Detection of Verticillium dahliae Kleb. in Asymptomatic Olive Trees
Authors: Karajeh M. R. , Masoud S. A.
Published: July 2006

To test and compare the sensitivity of single and nested PCR‐based assays with a standard plating procedure in detecting the infection of Verticillium dahliae, especially in asymptomatic olive trees at different tree heights, two symptomatic and two asymptomatic V. dahliae‐infected trees were sampled during the period of the minimal V. dahliae activity in olive tissues in summer at 10, 40, 70, 100, and 130 cm heights from the trunk base. The branch samples were subjected for standard plating and DNA extraction and amplification by V. dahliae‐specific single and nested PCR oligonucleotide primers derived from the internal transcribed spacer regions of nuclear ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes of V. dahliae. The single PCR‐based assay was highly sensitive compared with the standard plating detecting V. dahliae at most tree heights. More detection of V. dahliae was in symptomatic trees than asymptomatic trees and the intensity of the PCR decreased with increasing distance from the trunk base. The nested PCR allowed more specific amplification of V. dahliae than did the single PCR resulting in detecting the fungus in all heights of the asymptomatic trees. The single or nested PCR‐based assays could be used as a powerful diagnostic tool to detect V. dahliae latent infection in olive trees before symptom development and disease spread to newly established orchards.