bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Randomized, Double‐blind Controlled Study of Jet Lidocaine Compared to Jet Placebo for Pain Relief in Children Undergoing Needle Insertion in the Emergency Department
Authors: Auerbach Marc , Tunik Michael , Mojica Michael
Published: April 2009

Objectives:  The objectives were to determine whether pretreatment with needleless jet‐delivered lidocaine decreases self‐reported pain in children undergoing needle insertion in the emergency department (ED) and to explore whether pretreatment with a jet device decreases self‐reported pain in children undergoing needle insertion in the ED.

Methods:  This study examined needle insertion pain in children 5–18 years of age. In the first phase of this study, children received either pretreatment with jet‐delivered lidocaine (0.2 mL of buffered 1% lidocaine; n = 75) or pretreatment with jet‐delivered placebo (0.2 mL of preservative‐free normal saline; n = 75) 60 seconds before undergoing needle insertion. This phase of the study had a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled design. In the second phase, an unblinded, nonconcurrent, nonintervention control group (n = 47) was examined to describe any effect of using the jet device. Patients reported pain upon administration of the jet device and at needle insertion using a 100‐mm color analog scale (CAS). Patients also reported their satisfaction with this device. The physicians and nurses performing needle insertions were asked to rate their ability to visualize the vein and their satisfaction with the device.

Results:  The mean (±standard deviation [SD]) needle insertion pain score for jet lidocaine, 28 (±7) mm, was similar to the mean needle insertion pain score for jet placebo, 34 (±7) mm. The mean needle insertion pain score for both the jet lidocaine and the jet placebo groups were lower than the needle insertion pain scores for the no device group, 52 (±8) mm. The majority of patients receiving the jet device reported that they would request this device for future needle insertions. Providers’ ratings of their ability to visualize veins and the patient cooperation were similar in all three groups.

Conclusions:  Jet‐delivered lidocaine is no more effective than jet‐delivered placebo in providing local anesthesia for needle insertion. Jet lidocaine and jet placebo may provide superior analgesia compared to no local anesthetic pretreatment.
The Economic Value of Bilingualism for Asians and Hispanics1
Authors: Shin Hyoung‐jin , Alba Richard
Published: April 2009

This study examines how bilingualism affects the wages of Asian and Hispanic workers using 2000 Census data. In contradiction to the general belief that bilingualism can provide a competitive advantage in the labor market, we find no evidence that 1.5‐generation and U.S.‐born Asian and Hispanic bilingual workers generally have higher wages than their English monolingual co‐ethnics; in some cases, in fact, their wages are significantly lower. In search of specific circumstances under which bilingualism might provide an economic advantage, we also examine interactions of language with such variables as education, employment in the public rather than the private sector, and the size of the population of mother‐tongue speakers. With limited exceptions, we find no sign of greater economic returns to bilingualism. Since bilingualism requires considerable effort to maintain across generations in the United States, we conclude that the virtual absence of economic rewards for it creates pressure for linguistic assimilation.
Spatial dependence in agricultural land prices: does it exist?
Authors: Kostov Philip
Published: April 2009

Trade‐offs arise between spatial dependence and choice of functional form in agricultural land price hedonic models. We discuss these trade‐offs and how they can create spurious spatial dependence. Using a land sales dataset with apparent spatial dependence, we implement a semiparametric approach avoiding potential problems with the functional form. The results show that in addition to being nonlinear, the impacts are also characterized by significance thresholds that are difficult to capture in a parametric model. More importantly, we fail to detect any spatial dependence demonstrating that inappropriate functional form can indeed be responsible for finding spatial dependence in hedonic models.
The impact of the 1999 CAP reforms on the efficiency of the COP sector in Spain
Authors: Lambarraa Fatima , Stefanou Spiro , Serra Teresa , Gil José M.
Published: April 2009

The cereal, oilseeds, and protein crop sector (COP) occupies a prominent position within the European Union's agricultural sector. Within Spain, the COP sector accounts for almost a third of total Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund expenses, and half of the utilized agricultural area (UAA). The COP sector is not only relevant because of its physical and economic magnitude, but also because of the political attention it receives. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms that occurred during the 1990s paid special attention to this sector. This article aims to determine the impacts of Agenda 2000 on a sample of Spanish COP farmers’ production decisions by using an output‐oriented stochastic distance function. The distance function allows for an assessment of the reform‐motivated changes on total output, input used, input composition, and crop mix. It also permits an assessment of the impacts of the reform on farms’ technical efficiency.

Results show that the reform has shifted the production frontier inward and changed output composition in favor of voluntary set‐aside land. With respect to input composition, Agenda 2000 induced a decrease in land, fertilizers, pesticides, and other inputs in favor of labor. In addition, Agenda 2000 has had a negative impact on technical efficiency.
Over‐expression of forkhead box P3 and its association with receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κ B ligand, interleukin (IL) ‐17, IL‐10 and transforming growth factor‐β during the progression of chronic periodontitis
Authors: Dutzan Nicolás , Gamonal Jorge , Silva Augusto , Sanz Mariano , Vernal Rolando
Published: April 2009

Aim: T regulatory (Treg) cells have been detected in periodontitis lesions, and forkhead box P3 (Foxp3) expression has been negatively correlated to receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κ B ligand (RANKL). The aim of this study was to correlate T‐helper type 1 (Th1), Th2, Th17 and Treg transcription factor expressions, in gingival tissues from patients undergoing active periodontal tissue destruction, with bone loss‐associated cytokines.

Materials and Methods: In 10 chronic periodontitis patients undergoing disease progression, the mRNA expressions of T‐bet, GATA‐3, Foxp3, RORC2, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐10, IL‐17, RANKL, interferon (IFN)‐γ and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 were quantified using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. The levels of these markers were compared between active and inactive periodontal lesions.

Results: In active periodontal lesions, Foxp3, T‐bet, RANKL, IL‐17, IL‐1β and IFN‐γ were significantly over‐expressed compared with inactive lesions. The expression of IFN‐γ was the highest within the active periodontal lesions, similar to that of TGF‐β1 within the inactive ones. There was a positive correlation between RANKL and IL‐17. Additionally, RANKL and IL‐17 were positively correlated with RORC2, but no correlation was detected with Foxp3.

Conclusions: These results lead us to speculate that Foxp3+ cells that do not have a regulatory function might have a role in the pathogenesis of active periodontal lesions by down‐regulating TGF‐β1 and IL‐10 synthesis that lead to the over‐expression of Th17‐associated cytokines RANKL and IL‐17.
Physical activity, inflammatory biomarkers in gingival crevicular fluid and periodontitis
Authors: Sanders Anne E. , Slade Gary D. , Fitzsimmons Tracy R. , Bartold Peter Mark
Published: April 2009

Aims: To examine the associations of physical activity with interleukin 1‐β (IL‐1β), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and periodontitis and to investigate whether any relationship between physical activity and inflammatory mediators differs between periodontitis cases and non‐cases.

Material and Methods: In this population‐based case control study of Australians aged 18+ years, dentists conducted oral epidemiologic examinations identifying cases with moderate or severe periodontitis and periodontally healthy controls. Gingival crevicular fluid samples collected during examinations were analysed for inflammatory biomarkers. Subject‐completed questionnaires assessed leisure‐time physical activity. Exposure odds ratios (ORs) were estimated in multivariable logistic regression models adjusting for periodontitis risk indicators.

Results: Of 751 subjects (359 cases, 392 controls), those meeting a prescribed threshold for leisure‐time physical activity had lower adjusted odds of elevated IL‐1β: OR=0.69, (95% CI=0.50–0.94) and detectable CRP: OR=0.70 (0.50–0.98) than less active adults. Physical activity was not associated with periodontitis: OR=1.14 (0.80–1.62). Periodontitis modified the association between levels of physical activity and detectable CRP. Increasing quartiles of physically activity were associated with decreasing probability of detectable CRP, but the effect was limited to periodontitis cases and was not apparent among non‐cases.

Conclusion: Leisure‐time physical activity may protect against an excessive inflammatory response in periodontitis.
The gingival biotype revisited: transparency of the periodontal probe through the gingival margin as a method to discriminate thin from thick gingiva
Authors: De Rouck Tim , Eghbali Rouhollah , Collys Kristiaan , De Bruyn Hugo , Cosyn Jan
Published: April 2009

Aim: To detect groups of subjects in a sample of 100 periodontally healthy volunteers with different combinations of morphometric data related to central maxillary incisors and surrounding soft tissues.

Material and Methods: Four clinical parameters were included in a cluster analysis: crown width/crown length ratio (CW/CL), gingival width (GW), papilla height (PH) and gingival thickness (GT). The latter was based on the transparency of the periodontal probe through the gingival margin while probing the buccal sulcus. Every first volunteer out of 10 was re‐examined to evaluate intra‐examiner repeatability for all variables.

Results: High agreement between duplicate recordings was found for all parameters, in particular for GT, pointing to 85% (κ=0.70; p=0.002). The partitioning method identified three clusters with specific features. Cluster A1 (nine males, 28 females) displayed a slender tooth form (CW/CL=0.79), a GW of 4.92 mm, a PH of 4.29 mm and a thin gingiva (probe visible on one or both incisors in 100% of the subjects). Cluster A2 (29 males, five females) presented similar features (CW/CL=0.77; GW=5.2 mm; PH=4.54 mm), except for GT. These subjects showed a clear thick gingiva (probe concealed on both incisors in 97% of the subjects). The third group (cluster B: 12 males, 17 females) differed substantially from the other clusters in many parameters. These subjects showed a more quadratic tooth form (CW/CL=0.88), a broad zone of keratinized tissue (GW=5.84 mm), low papillae (PH=2.84 mm) and a thick gingiva (probe concealed on both incisors in 83% of the subjects).

Conclusions: The present analysis, using a simple and reproducible method for GT assessment, confirmed the existence of gingival biotypes. A clear thin gingiva was found in about one‐third of the sample in mainly female subjects with slender teeth, a narrow zone of keratinized tissue and a highly scalloped gingival margin corresponding to the features of the previously introduced “thin‐scalloped biotype” (cluster A1). A clear thick gingiva was found in about two‐thirds of the sample in mainly male subjects. About half of them showed quadratic teeth, a broad zone of keratinized tissue and a flat gingival margin corresponding to the features of the previously introduced “thick‐flat biotype” (cluster B). The other half could not be classified as such. These subjects showed a clear thick gingiva with slender teeth, a narrow zone of keratinized tissue and a high gingival scallop (cluster A2).
Biomedicine in orthodontics: from tooth movement to facial growth
Authors: King G
Published: April 2009

Structured Abstract

Author –  King G

Biomedicine has the potential to improve orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic treatment significantly. The importance of biomedicine has grown as the result of three trends that have experienced rapid development in recent years: the increased molecularization of biology; the rise of computer modeling; and the greater application of experimentation to clinical settings. Despite this, the translation of new biologic knowledge to clinical practice in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics has been slow. Notably promising areas of orthodontic biomedical research can be recognized in diagnosis, treatment rationales, therapeutics, and monitoring. Despite facing significant challenges in all of these areas, some innovations have been rapidly adopted with minimal understanding of their biologic fundamentals while others are slow to be implemented in clinical settings. Issues related to this disparity can be identified but solutions are often less clear. Two future challenges will be highlighted: 1) the inadequacy of infrastructure and systems organization to support translation of bench science to the clinic; and 2) the inherent differences in the logic and assumptions of efficacy vs. effectiveness research.
Cellular and molecular basis of tooth eruption
Authors: Wise GE
Published: April 2009

Structured Abstract

Author – Wise GE

Objectives – Tooth eruption requires the presence of a dental follicle (DF), alveolar bone resorption for an eruption pathway, and alveolar bone formation at the base of the bony crypt. The objectives of our investigations have been to determine how the DF regulates both the osteoclastogenesis and osteogenesis needed for eruption.

Material and Methods – Multiple experimental methods have been employed.

Results – The DF regulates osteoclastogenesis and osteogenesis by regulating the expression of critical genes in both a chronological and spatial fashion. In the rat 1st mandibular molar there is a major burst of osteoclastogenesis at day 3 postnatally and a minor burst at day 10. At day 3, the DF maximally expresses colony‐stimulating factor‐1 (CSF‐1) to down‐regulate the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) such that osteoclastogenesis can occur. At day 10, the minor burst of osteoclastogenesis is promoted by upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and RANKL in the DF. Spatially, the bone resorption is in the coronal portion of the bony crypt and genes such as RANKL are expressed more in the coronal region of the DF than in its basal one‐half. For osteogenesis, bone formation begins at day 3 at the base of the bony crypt and maximal growth is at days 9–14. Osteo‐inductive genes such as bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) appear to promote this and are expressed more in the basal half of the DF than in the coronal.

Conclusion – The osteoclastogenesis and osteogenesis needed for eruption are regulated by differential gene expression in the DF both chronologically and spatially.
RANK/RANKL/OPG during orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Yamaguchi M
Published: April 2009

Structured Abstract

Author –  Yamaguchi M

Objectives –  Orthodontic tooth movement is induced by mechanical stimuli and facilitated by remodeling of the periodontal ligament (PDL) and alveolar bone. A precondition for these remodeling activities, and ultimately for tooth displacement, is the occurrence of an inflammatory process.

Materials and Methods –  This review covers current knowledge regarding the role of the receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa (RANK), receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa ligand (RANKL), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in periodontal tissue reactions, in response to orthodontic forces.

Results –  It has been found that concentrations of RANKL in GCF increased during orthodontic tooth movement, and the ratio of concentration of RANKL to that of OPG in the GCF was significantly higher than in control sites. In vivo studies have shown the presence of RANKL and RANK in periodontal tissues during experimental tooth movement of rat molars, and that PDL cells under mechanical stress may induce osteoclastogenesis through upregulation of RANKL expression during orthodontic tooth movement.

Conclusions –  Considering the importance of RANK, RANKL, and OPG in physiologic osteoclast formation, it is reasonable to propose that the RANKL/RANK/OPG system plays an important role in orthodontic tooth movement.
Modulation of murine bone marrow‐derived CFU‐F and CFU‐OB by in vivo bisphosphonate and fluoride treatments
Authors: Chou M‐Y , Yan D , Jafarov T , Everett ET
Published: April 2009

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Chou M‐Y, Yan D, Jafarov T, Everett ET

Objectives –  Bisphosphonates (BPN) have actions on a variety of cell types including: osteoclasts, osteoblasts, osteocytes, and endothelial cells. The objectives of this report are to review the current state of understanding of the effects of BPNs on orthodontic tooth movement and to provide evidence on BPN’s in vivo effects on bone marrow‐derived osteoprogenitor cells.

Material and Methods –  Mice from the C3H/HeJ (C3H), C57BL/6J (B6), FVB/NJ (FVB), and BALB/cByJ (BALB) strains were treated for 3 weeks with 0, 3, 30, or 150 mcg/kg/week alendronate (ALN) administered subcutaneous alone or in combination with 50 ppm fluoride (F). Bone marrow cells were harvested and subjected to in vitro colony‐forming unit fibroblast (CFU‐F) and colony‐forming unit osteoblasts (CFU‐OB) assays.

Results –  Baseline differences in CFU‐F, CFU‐OB/ALP+, and CFU‐OB/total were observed among the four strains. Strain‐specific responses to ALN and F treatments were observed for CFU‐F, CFU‐OB/ALP+, and CFU‐OB/total. F treatment alone resulted in decreases in CFU‐F (p = 0.013), CFU‐OB/ALP+ (p = 0.005), and CFU‐OB/total (p = 0.003) in the C3H strain. CFU‐F (p = 0.036) were decreased by F in the B6 strain. No significant (NS) effects of F were observed for FVB and BALB. ALN treatment resulted in a significant decrease in CFU‐F (p = 0.0014) and CFU‐OB/total (p = 0.028) in C3H only. ALN treatment had NS effect on CFU‐OB/ALP+ in all four strains.

Conclusion –  Genetic factors appear to play a role in ALN’s effects on CFU‐F and CFU‐OB/total but not on CFU‐OB/ALP+.
Effect of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on membrane microdomain localization of tight junction proteins in experimental colitis
Authors: Li Qiurong , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Min , Wang Chenyang , Zhu Zhenxin , Li Ning , Li Jieshou
Published: April 2009

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by an inflammatory process associated with mucosal damage. Many studies have shown that n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) possess anti‐inflammatory effects in inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this study was to investigate whether n‐3 PUFAs could alleviate intestinal damage in experimental UC. In the present study, we found that in 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid‐induced colitic rats, the damage to the intestinal mucosa was accompanied by a disrupted tight junction (TJ) structure. In accordance with these changes, the distribution and expression of TJ proteins, including occludin, claudin‐1, claudin‐3, claudin‐5, claudin‐8 and ZO‐1, in membrane microdomains was altered. The distribution of flotillin‐1, a lipid raft marker protein, was also changed. Moreover, we found for the first time that n‐3 PUFAs prevented redistribution of TJ proteins from Triton X‐100‐insoluble raft‐like membrane microdomains to Triton X‐100‐soluble fractions. The expression of ZO‐1, claudin‐1, claudin‐5 and claudin‐8 was significantly elevated by n‐3 PUFAs. n‐3 PUFAs also attenuated the disruption of TJ structure and improved the histological score. Our results demonstrate that the expression and distribution of TJ proteins in TJ membrane microdomains might be affected in UC, and that such altered expression of TJ proteins in membrane microdomains in experimental UC is affected by n‐3 PUFAs. These findings may have therapeutic potential in intestinal inflammation.
Protein folding intermediates of invasin protein IbeA from Escherichia coli
Authors: Mendu Damodara R. , Dasari Venkata R. , Cai Mian , Kim Kwang S.
Published: April 2009

IbeA of Escherichia coli K1 was cloned, expressed and purified as a His6‐tag fusion protein. The purified fusion protein inhibited E. coli K1 invasion of human brain microvascular endothelial cells and was heat‐modifiable. The structural and functional aspects, along with equilibrium unfolding of IbeA, were studied in solution. The far‐UV CD spectrum of IbeA at pH 7.0 has a strong negative peak at 215 nm, indicating the existence of β‐sheet‐like structure. The acidic unfolding curve of IbeA at pH 2.0 shows the existence of a partially unfolded molecule (molten globule‐like structure) with β‐sheet‐like structure and displays strong 8‐anilino‐2‐naphthyl sulfonic acid (ANS) binding. The pH dependent intrinsic fluorescence of IbeA was biphasic. At pH 2.0, IbeA exists in a partially unfolded state with characteristics of a molten globule‐like state, and the protein is in extended β‐sheet conformation and exhibits strong ANS binding. Guanidine hydrochloride denaturation of IbeA in the molten globule‐like state is noncooperative, contrary to the cooperativity seen with the native protein, suggesting the presence of two domains (possibly) in the molecular structure of IbeA, with differential unfolding stabilities. Furthermore, tryptophan quenching studies suggested the exposure of aromatic residues to solvent in this state. Acid denatured unfolding of IbeA monitored by far‐UV CD is non‐cooperative with two transitions at pH 3.0–1.5 and 1.5–0.5. At lower pH, IbeA unfolds to the acid‐unfolded state, and a further decrease in pH to 2.0 drives the protein to the A state. The presence of 0.5 m KCl in the solvent composition directs the transition to the A state by bypassing the acid‐unfolded state. Additional guanidine hydrochloride induced conformational changes in IbeA from the native to the A‐state, as monitored by near‐ and far‐UV CD and ANS‐fluorescence.
The chaperone and potential mannan‐binding lectin (MBL) co‐receptor calreticulin interacts with MBL through the binding site for MBL‐associated serine proteases
Authors: Pagh Rasmus , Duus Karen , Laursen Inga , Hansen Paul R. , Mangor Julie , Thielens Nicole , Arlaud Gérard J. , Kongerslev Leif , Højrup Peter , Houen Gunnar
Published: April 2009

The chaperone calreticulin has been suggested to function as a C1q and collectin receptor. The interaction of calreticulin with mannan‐binding lectin (MBL) was investigated by solid‐phase binding assays. Calreticulin showed saturable and time‐dependent binding to recombinant MBL, provided that MBL was immobilized on a solid surface or bound to mannan on a surface. The binding was non‐covalent and biphasic with an initial salt‐sensitive phase followed by a more stable salt‐insensitive interaction. For plasma‐derived MBL, known to be complexed with MBL‐associated serine proteases (MASPs), no binding was observed. Interaction of calreticulin with recombinant MBL was fully inhibited by recombinant MASP‐2, MASP‐3 and MAp19, but not by the MASP‐2 D105G and MAp19 Y59A variants characterized by defective MBL binding ability. Furthermore, MBL point mutants with impaired MASP binding showed no interaction with calreticulin. Comparative analysis of MBL with complement component C1q, its counterpart of the classical pathway, revealed that they display similar binding characteristics for calreticulin, providing further indication that calreticulin is a common co‐receptor/chaperone for both proteins. In conclusion, the potential MBL co‐receptor calreticulin binds to MBL at the MASP binding site and the interaction may involve a conformational change in MBL.
Phytoene synthase genes in tomato (Solanumlycopersicum L.) – new data on the structures, the deduced amino acid sequences and the expression patterns
Authors: Giorio Giovanni , Stigliani Adriana Lucia , D’Ambrosio Caterina
Published: April 2009

The fruit of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a berry: red, fleshy and rich in seeds. Its colour is due to the high content of lycopene whose synthesis is activated by the phytoene synthase 1 (PSY1) enzyme, encoded by Psy1 which is distinct from Psy2. In the present study, we report on the genomic structures of the Psy1 and Psy2 genes and on their transcription patterns in different tomato tissues. Our results have completely clarified the structure of the Psy1 and Psy2 genes in the coding sequence region. The two genes were shown to have an highly conserved structure, with seven exons being almost identical and six introns being much more variable. For Psy1 and Psy2, respectively, the sequenced regions were 4527 and 3542 bp long, the coding sequences were 1239 bp and 1317 bp long, whereas the predicted protein sequences were 412 and 438 amino acids. The two proteins are almost identical in the central region, whereas most differences are present in the N‐terminus and C‐terminus. Quantitative real time PCR analysis showed that Psy2 transcript was present in all tested plant tissues, whereas Psy1 transcript could be detected in chromoplast‐containing tissues, particularly in fruit where it activates and boosts lycopene accumulation. Interestingly, the organ with the highest relative content of Psy2 transcript is the petal and not the leaf. Psy1 is a Psy2 paralog derived through a gene duplication event that have involved other genes encoding rate controlling enzymes of the carotenoid pathway. Duplicate genes have been recruited to allow carotenoid synthesis in petals and fruits. However, recruitment of carotenoid metabolism for fruit pigmentation could have occurred later in the evolution, either because phytoene synthase gene duplication occurred later or because the fruit pigmentation process required a more sophisticated mechanism involving tight control of the transcription of other genes.
C‐terminal, endoplasmic reticulum‐lumenal domain of prosurfactant protein C – structural features and membrane interactions
Authors: Casals Cristina , Johansson Hanna , Saenz Alejandra , Gustafsson Magnus , Alfonso Carlos , Nordling Kerstin , Johansson Jan
Published: April 2009

Surfactant protein C (SP‐C) constitutes the transmembrane part of prosurfactant protein C (proSP‐C) and is α‐helical in its native state. The C‐terminal part of proSP‐C (CTC) is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum lumen and binds to misfolded (β‐strand) SP‐C, thereby preventing its aggregation and amyloid fibril formation. In this study, we investigated the structure of recombinant human CTC and the effects of CTC–membrane interaction on protein structure. CTC forms noncovalent trimers and supratrimeric oligomers. It contains two intrachain disulfide bridges, and its secondary structure is significantly affected by urea or heat only after disulfide reduction. The postulated Brichos domain of CTC, with homologs found in proteins associated with amyloid and proliferative disease, is up to 1000‐fold more protected from limited proteolysis than the rest of CTC. The protein exposes hydrophobic surfaces, as determined by CTC binding to the environment‐sensitive fluorescent probe 1,1′‐bis(4‐anilino‐5,5′‐naphthalenesulfonate). Fluorescence energy transfer experiments further reveal close proximity between bound 1,1′‐bis(4‐anilino‐5,5′‐naphthalenesulfonate) and tyrosine residues in CTC, some of which are conserved in all Brichos domains. CTC binds to unilamellar phospholipid vesicles with low micromolar dissociation constants, and differential scanning calorimetry and CD analyses indicate that membrane‐bound CTC is less structurally ordered than the unbound protein. The exposed hydrophobic surfaces and the structural disordering that result from interactions with phospholipid membranes suggest a mechanism whereby CTC binds to misfolded SP‐C in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane.
Piecing together the structure of retroviral integrase, an important target in AIDS therapy
Authors: Jaskolski Mariusz , Alexandratos Jerry N. , Bujacz Grzegorz , Wlodawer Alexander
Published: April 2009

Integrase (IN) is one of only three enzymes encoded in the genomes of all retroviruses, and is the one least characterized in structural terms. IN catalyzes processing of the ends of a DNA copy of the retroviral genome and its concerted insertion into the chromosome of the host cell. The protein consists of three domains, the central catalytic core domain flanked by the N‐terminal and C‐terminal domains, the latter being involved in DNA binding. Although the Protein Data Bank contains a number of NMR structures of the N‐terminal and C‐terminal domains of HIV‐1 and HIV‐2, simian immunodeficiency virus and avian sarcoma virus IN, as well as X‐ray structures of the core domain of HIV‐1, avian sarcoma virus and foamy virus IN, plus several models of two‐domain constructs, no structure of the complete molecule of retroviral IN has been solved to date. Although no experimental structures of IN complexed with the DNA substrates are at hand, the catalytic mechanism of IN is well understood by analogy with other nucleotidyl transferases, and a variety of models of the oligomeric integration complexes have been proposed. In this review, we present the current state of knowledge resulting from structural studies of IN from several retroviruses. We also attempt to reconcile the differences between the reported structures, and discuss the relationship between the structure and function of this enzyme, which is an important, although so far rather poorly exploited, target for designing drugs against HIV‐1 infection.
Adaptation to G93Asuperoxide dismutase 1 in a motor neuron cell line model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Tartari Silvia , D’Alessandro Giuseppina , Babetto Elisabetta , Rizzardini Milena , Conforti Laura , Cantoni Lavinia
Published: April 2009

Motor neuron degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis involves oxidative damage. Glutathione (GSH) is critical as an antioxidant and a redox modulator. We used a motor neuronal cell line (NSC‐34) to investigate whether wild‐type and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐linked G93A mutant Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase (wt/G93ASOD1) modified the GSH pool and glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL), the rate‐limiting enzyme for GSH synthesis. We studied the effect of various G93ASOD1 levels and exposure times. Mutant Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase induced an adaptive process involving the upregulation of GSH synthesis, even at very low expression levels. However, cells with a high level of G93ASOD1 cultured for 10 weeks showed GSH depletion and a decrease in expression of the modulatory subunit of GCL. These cells also had lower levels of GSH and GCL activity was not induced after treatment with the pro‐oxidant tert‐butylhydroquinone. Cells with a low level of G93ASOD1 maintained higher GSH levels and GCL activity, showing that the exposure time and the level of the mutant protein modulate GSH synthesis. We conclude that failure of the regulation of the GSH pathway caused by G93ASOD1 may contribute to motor neuron vulnerability and we identify this pathway as a target for therapeutic intervention.
What causes post‐traumatic empyema?
Authors: Burton Paul R , Lee Minjae , Bailey Michael , Pick Adrian W
Published: April 2009

Background: Empyema post chest trauma is a morbid condition requiring operative intervention (thoracotomy and decortication). It is hypothesized that patients who have a complicated initial pleural drainage procedure are at increased risk of developing an empyema.

Methods: All patients who underwent operative decortication for post‐traumatic empyema over a 24 month period (July 2003 to June 2005) were included in the study. Data were collected on demographics, intercostal catheter (ICC) insertion, prehospital chest decompression and associated injuries. A matched group of patients who had ICC inserted for chest trauma and did not develop an empyema were used as controls.

Results: Fourteen patients had decortications for post‐traumatic empyema. Two of three pneumocaths and one ICC were placed within the lung. Five other patients had multiple ‘attempts’ at ICC insertion. Only two patients had a single uncomplicated ICC inserted. The empyema and control group were well matched in terms of age (mean age 40 years in each group, P = 0.83), injury severity score (36.4 vs 35.3, P = 0.85) and presence of chest, abdominal and multi‐system injury. The empyema group had significantly longer median hospital stay (12.8 vs 28.7 days, P = 0.05). The control group had less initial ICC inserted (median of 1.0 vs 2.0, P = 0.02). Only one patient had a complicated ICC insertion, and two uncomplicated pneumocaths were placed.

Conclusion: Patients with complex chest injuries in whom difficulties in initial pleural drainage are encountered are at increased risk of developing a post‐traumatic empyema and have a prolonged hospital stay.
Novel Nursing Terminologies for the Rapid Response System
Authors: Wong Elizabeth
Published: April 2009

PURPOSE.  Nursing terminology with implications for the rapid response system (RRS) is introduced and proposed: critical incident nursing diagnosis (CIND), defined as the recognition of an acute life‐threatening event that occurs as a result of disease, surgery, treatment, or medication; critical incident nursing intervention, defined as any indirect or direct care registered nurse‐initiated treatment, based upon clinical judgment and knowledge that a registered nurse performs in response to a CIND; and critical incident control, defined as a response that attempts to reverse a life‐threatening condition.

DATA SOURCES.  The current literature, research studies, meta‐analyses from a variety of disciplines, and personal clinical experience serve as the data sources for this article.

DATA SYNTHESIS.  The current nursing diagnoses, nursing interventions, and nursing outcomes listed in the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association International Classification, Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), and Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC), respectively, are inaccurate or inadequate for describing nursing care during life‐threatening situations. The lack of such standardized nursing terminology creates a barrier that may impede critical communication and patient care during life‐threatening situations when activating the RRS.

CONCLUSIONS.  The North American Nursing Diagnosis Association International Classification, NIC, and NOC are urged to refine their classifications and include CIND, critical incident nursing intervention, and critical incident control. The RRS should incorporate standardized nursing terminology to describe patient care during life‐threatening situations.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  Refining the diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes classifications will permit nursing researchers, among others, to conduct studies on the efficacy of the proposed novel nursing terminology when providing care to patients during life‐threatening situations. In addition, including the proposed novel nursing terminology in the RRS offers a means of improving care in such situations.
APPLICATION OF SENSORY DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS TO COMPLETE THE CURRENT OFFICIAL CARD OF THE GALICIAN ORUJO SPIRITS
Authors: CORTÉS SANDRA , FERNÁNDEZ ANA , OTERO CARMEN , SALGADO ISABEL
Published: April 2009

Ten samples of young Galician Orujo spirits from different grape varieties were evaluated using sensory descriptive analysis by a panel of 12 professional Orujo tasters. The aim of this study was to generate attributes to sensorially describe this kind of drinks in order to complete the current official card and permit their differentiation and varietal characterization. In the first session of analysis, the Orujo tasters identified a high number of descriptors, that they were then reduced after the elimination of hedonic terms and inappropriate attributes by using statistical methods. High significant correlations were found between the new descriptive parameters selected and the original terms employed to qualify the Orujo samples. Herbaceous, floral, ensilage and heads for aroma, spicy–caustic and sweet for taste and fruity for aftertaste were the attributes that showed significant differences between the Orujo samples. These terms may qualitatively be considered as typical descriptors of Orujos from Galicia.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In the original card employed to qualify Galician Orujo spirits, only hedonic terms are used, all of them with an important subjective influence. The new card, in which descriptive terms generated by the official panel are included, too, permits, besides qualifying of the samples, defining of their profile in the same tasting session. With the new terms, the tasters can justify the total points given to each sample. The final sensory profile obtained for a single Orujo variety will result of a large group of Orujo samples tasted during several sessions. This tool will be very useful for the Regulating Commission to obtain more information about the sensory characteristics of this kind of alcoholic beverage and for the corresponding distillery, in case a sample was rejected, to know which attributes were found as negatives.
COMPARISON OF THE VIRGIN OLIVE OILS PRODUCED IN DIFFERENT REGIONS OF TURKEY
Authors: ÖĞÜTÇÜ MUSTAFA , YILMAZ EMIN
Published: April 2009

Virgin olive oils from different regions of Turkey were collected and analyzed. The total phenolics and antioxidant capacity of the samples ranged from 30.26 to 208.61 mg gallic acid/kg and 0.60 to 5.61 Trolox equivalents/kg, respectively. Free acidity (0.44–7.31% oleic acid), peroxide value (6.83–39.60 meq O2/kg), total volatiles (0.11–0.37%), viscosity (65.50–85.40 cP), K232 value (1.30–2.54), K270 value (0.08–0.30), refractive index (1.470) and descriptive sensory properties of the samples were also measured. The multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis indicated that positive and negative attributes classification of the olive oil sensory defining terms were mostly the case, and total phenolics content by itself may be a useful classification index. Also, MDS maps showed that the samples from Southeastern and Aegean regions are closer, while others are separate from each other.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Data for the physicochemical and sensory descriptive properties of virgin olive oils from Turkey are provided for the scientific community, olive oil consumers and traders. Also, utilization of sensory data by multidimensional scaling technique for geographical origin groupings provides a unique insight for researchers for similar objectives. In addition, some findings (i.e., the eligibility of phenolics content by itself for olive oil classification) of this article produce new results for fast and practical application purposes yet confirmed by other researchers.
Insights into the population structure of blue whales in the Eastern North Pacific from recent sightings and photographic identification
Authors: Calambokidis John , Barlow Jay , Ford John K. B. , Chandler Todd E. , Douglas Annie B.
Published: April 2009

Abstract

Blue whales were widely distributed in the North Pacific prior to the primary period of modern commercial whaling in the early 1900s. Despite concentrations of blue whale catches off British Columbia and in the Gulf of Alaska, there had been few documented sightings in these areas since whaling for blue whales ended in 1965. In contrast, large concentrations of blue whales have been documented off California and Baja California and in the eastern tropical Pacific since the 1970s, but it was not known if these animals were part of the same population that previously ranged into Alaskan waters. We document 15 blue whale sightings off British Columbia and in the Gulf of Alaska made since 1997, and use identification photographs to show that whales in these areas are currently part of the California feeding population. We speculate that this may represent a return to a migration pattern that has existed for earlier periods for eastern North Pacific blue whale population. One possible explanation for a shift in blue whale use is changes in prey driven by changes in oceanographic conditions, including the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), which coincides with some of the observed shifts in blue whale occurrence.
Application of Capillary Electrophoresis to Determine the Technological Properties of Wheat Flours by a Glutenin Index
Authors: Di Luccia A. , Lamacchia C. , Mamone G. , Picariello G. , Trani A. , Masi P. , Addeo F.
Published: April 2009

ABSTRACT:  Capillary electrophoresis was used to characterize glutenin proteins from ancient varieties of Southern Italy common wheat and to determine the technological properties of wheat flours based on a glutenin index. Three zones were identified in the electropherograms, indicated as A, B, and C according to electroelution order. The three zones corresponded to the low molecular weight glutenin subunits and to the y‐ and x‐type high molecular weight subunits, respectively. The ratio B/C was correlated to the alveographic parameter P/L. These results indicated that flours resulting in a B/C ratio lower than 2 produced elastic doughs whereas flours resulting in a B/C ratio higher than 2 produced doughs more resistant to extension. This study showed that capillary electrophoresis is useful for determining the types and quantities of gluten proteins in the evaluation of wheat‐flour technological properties of a limited number of noncommercial varieties as evidenced by the x‐type content which seems to strongly influence the flour technological parameters.
Effect of Oxygen‐Absorbing Packaging on the Shelf Life of a Liquid‐Based Component of Military Operational Rations
Authors: Gomes Carmen , Castell‐Perez M. Elena , Chimbombi Ezekiel , Barros Frederico , Sun Dazhi , Liu Jia (Daniel) , Sue Hung‐Jue , Sherman Peter , Dunne Patrick , Wright Alan O.
Published: April 2009

ABSTRACT:  Oxygen within the sealed package can reduce the quality of liquid‐based food products with high oil content such as hot‐filled meal‐ready‐to‐eat (MRE) cheese spread, a component of military operational rations. The aim of this study was to test a novel oxygen absorber‐containing laminate material and its ability to maintain and/or extend shelf life of a cheese‐spread MRE item. An iron‐based oxygen absorber (ABSO2RB®) activated by moisture was incorporated into the laminate and used to pack hot‐filled cheese spread MREs. The kinetics of oxygen absorption due to humidity and temperature were characterized and peel tests performed to ensure pouch seal integrity. Accelerated shelf‐life tests of ABSO2RB and regular MRE pouches without the O2‐absorber were conducted for 3 mo at 51.7 °C (125 °F), and 6 mo at 37.8 °C (100 °F) by measuring oxygen concentration (Mocon O2‐analyzer), microbiological, and physicochemical quality characteristics, including color, texture, moisture, free fatty acid (FFA), pH, water activity, and vitamins and A. Pouches stored at 26.7 °C (80 °F) for 12 mo served as calibrated controls. Consumer tests were conducted in‐house and a confirmatory sensory test was conducted at Natick by a trained panel using a 9‐point hedonic scale. ABSO2RB‐laminates maintain the same seal integrity and strength as those of the control samples. The headspace oxygen concentrations in these pouches reached (P < 0.05) < 0.5% in 11 d of storage at 26.7 °C (80 °F) and remained below this level throughout the storage period (1 y). No microbial growth (aerobic, coliforms, yeast, and molds) was detected (P < 0.05) for both packages. Overall, the ABSO2RB‐pouches indicate an improved reduction in oxygen and vitamin C retention compared with MRE controls and maintained product quality (physicochemical and organoleptic). ABSO2RB‐laminates met the accelerated shelf‐life requirement of 1 mo at 51.7 °C (125 °F), and 6 mo at 37.8 °C (100 °F). This study clearly shows the benefits of using active packaging technology on retaining nutrition and prolonging shelf life of high‐fat, liquid content MRE items.
Influence of Microbial Growth on the Redox Potential of Fermented Cucumbers
Authors: Olsen Maegan J. , Pérez‐Díaz Ilenys M.
Published: April 2009

ABSTRACT:  Commonly, pH measurements are used during the production of fermented cucumbers to indirectly monitor growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and acid production. Redox potential (Eh) measurements, which are determined by the potential of an electron to reduce an acceptor, could serve as an alternative tool to monitor the progress of fermentation allowing the detection of the metabolic activity and/or growth of LAB and other microorganisms. Pasteurized and inoculated jars of cucumbers were observed to better understand how the Eh changes during the cucumber fermentation and how it could be used as a monitoring tool. Jars of diced, brined cucumbers were pasteurized and inoculated with microbes previously isolated from fermented cucumbers including Lactobacillus plantarum, Zygosaccharomyces globiformis, and Enterobacter aerogenes. Although an initial decrease in Eh was observed for all microorganisms, distinctive trends in Eh occurred when these organisms were inoculated. After a 2‐wk fermentation period, the Eh (Ag/AgCl, 3 M KCl) in jars inoculated with L. plantarum, Z. globiformis, and E. aerogenes was at +453 ± 55, +104 ± 5, and –156 ± 73 mV, respectively. Cucumbers inoculated with a mixture of L. plantarum and Z. globiformis had a terminal Eh value of +202 ± 24 mV, which was between that found for the individual microorganisms. L. plantarum dominated the Eh trend when inoculated along with E. aerogenes with a final Eh of +411 ± 72 mV. The results showed that changes in Eh continued after pH measurements became stable. Thus Eh measurement can provide a tool to continuously monitor microbial growth during the course of cucumber fermentations.
Identification of Lactic Acid Bacterial Strains with High Conjugated Linoleic Acid‐Producing Ability from Natural Sauerkraut Fermentations
Authors: Zeng Z. , Lin J. , Gong D.
Published: April 2009

ABSTRACT:  Natural sauerkraut fermentations contain a great number of lactic acid bacteria. The aim of this study was to identify lactic acid bacterial strains with high conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)‐producing ability from natural sauerkraut fermentations. Fifteen CLA‐producing lactic acid bacterial strains were isolated in the study. One of these strains, designated as NCUL005, showed the highest CLA‐producing ability (0.623 mg/mL). The transformation efficiency of converting linoleic acid into CLA by NCUL005 was 26.67%. The CLA produced by NCUL005 comprised a mixture of 32.2% cis9, trans11‐C18:2 isomer and 67.8% trans10, cis12‐C18:2 isomer. NCUL005 was identified as Lactobacillus plantarum, based on its cell morphology, characteristics of lactic acid production, and analysis result from Biolog Microbial Identification System (BMIS).