bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LAT – an important raft‐associated transmembrane adaptor protein. Delivered on 6 July 2009 at the 34th FEBS Congress in Prague, Czech Republic
Authors: Hořejší Václav , Otáhal Pavel , Brdička Tomáš
Published: August 2010

Membrane rafts are microdomains involved in a number of biologically important processes, including immunoreceptor signalling. Among the functionally important protein components of these microdomains are transmembrane adaptor proteins, containing in their intracellular domains tyrosine residues that can be phosphorylated and bind other cytoplasmic signalling proteins. The most important leukocyte transmembrane adaptor protein is LAT (linker for activation of T cells), which is critically involved in T cell receptor signalling, but also plays important roles in signal initiation by several other immunologically important receptors. Here we review recent progress in the elucidation of several aspects of this protein, e.g. the controversy concerning the importance of LAT being present in membrane rafts, the involvement in signalling through a number of receptors other than the T cell receptor and the puzzling phenotype of some LAT mutants.
Prenatal Undernutrition Changes Renovascular Responses of Nimesulide in Rat Kidneys
Authors: Silva Leonardo A.C. , Veira‐Filho Leucio D. , Barreto Izabel S.S. , Cabral Edjair V. , Vieyra Adalberto , Paixão Ana D.O.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Several studies in the Northeastern region of Brazil have demonstrated an association between hypertension in adult populations and prenatal and postnatal undernutrion. The central hypothesis we proposed was that hypertension could be favoured by programmed alterations in branches of the renal arachidonic pathway and consequently in counter‐balancing the renin angiotensin system, especially during treatments with cyclooxygenase inhibitors. We assessed the influence of subchronic (21 days) and acute administration of nimesulide, a preferential cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor, on mean blood pressure (MAP), renal blood flow (RBF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urinary output (Uv) in adult rats that were prenatally undernourished. Undernutrition per se led to the onset of mild hypertension in adult offspring, whereas subchronic nimesulide treatment increased MAP in control and elicited further augmentation in undernourished animals. The drug (i) decreased RBF and GFR in controls by 50%, whereas no effect was detected in the undernourished group, and (ii) increased Uv by 25% in controls, an effect that was potentiated by 200% in programmed animals. In contrast, acute nimesulide administration decreased Uv, with the hypertensive effect of the drug being potentiated during dehydration. These findings demonstrate that prenatal nutritional programming differentially modulates adult renovascular responses to nimesulide in the cortex and medulla, which may exacerbate the deleterious effects of COX‐2 inhibition in the kidney.
Relationship between work–family conflict and a sense of coherence among Japanese registered nurses
Authors: TAKEUCHI Tomoko , YAMAZAKI Yoshihiko
Published: August 2010

Aim:  Work–family conflict (WFC) refers to the conflict that arises between a person's work and family life. Previous studies have reported workload, job demands, and irregular working shifts as related to the WFC among nurses and have clarified that WFC is a predictor of job satisfaction, morale, and turnover intention. Very few studies have investigated WFC among Japanese nurses and no study has taken into consideration the sense of coherence (SOC) that helps nurses to cope with stress. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between WFC and SOC and to clarify how WFC and a SOC influence the mental and physical health of nurses in order to suggest ways of establishing work environments that enable nurses to achieve a balance between their work and family life.

Methods:  A self‐report questionnaire survey of 388 Japanese female nurses was conducted. The data from 138 nurses who were a mother and/or wife were analyzed.

Results:  Work–family conflict was significantly related to the SOC. It had a larger impact on the physical and mental health of nurses than their work and family characteristics. The SOC also had a major influence on the physical and mental health of nurses, while having a buffering effect on WFC with respect to depression.

Conclusions:  Our findings underscore the importance of taking organizational steps to create work environments that contribute to an enhanced SOC in order to reduce the WFC among nurses.
2M1938+4603: a rich, multimode pulsating sdB star with an eclipsing dM companion observed with Kepler
Authors: Østensen R. H. , Green E. M. , Bloemen S. , Marsh T. R. , Laird J. B. , Morris M. , Moriyama E. , Oreiro R. , Reed M. D. , Kawaler S. D. , Aerts C. , Vučković M. , Degroote P. , Telting J. H. , Kjeldsen H. , Gilliland R. L. , Christensen-Dalsgaard J. , Borucki W. J. , Koch D.
Published: August 2010

2M1938+4603 (KIC 9472174) displays a spectacular light curve dominated by a strong reflection effect and rather shallow, grazing eclipses. The orbital period is 0.126 d, the second longest period yet found for an eclipsing sdB+dM, but still close to the minimum 0.1-d period among such systems. The phase-folded Kepler light curve was used to detrend the orbital effects from the data set. The amplitude spectrum of the residual light curve reveals a rich collection of pulsation peaks spanning frequencies from ∼50 to 4500 μHz. The presence of a complex pulsation spectrum in both the p- and g-mode regions has never before been reported in a compact pulsator.

Eclipsing sdB+dM stars are very rare, with only seven systems known and only one with a pulsating primary. Pulsating stars in eclipsing binaries are especially important since they permit masses derived from seismological model fits to be cross-checked with orbital mass constraints. We present a first analysis of this star based on the Kepler 9.7-d commissioning light curve and extensive ground-based photometry and spectroscopy that allow us to set useful bounds on the system parameters. We derive a radial-velocity amplitude K1 = 65.7 ± 0.6 km s −1, inclination angle , and find that the masses of the components are M1 = 0.48 ± 0.03 M⊙ and M2 = 0.12 ± 0.01 M⊙.
The discovery of a very cool, very nearby brown dwarf in the Galactic plane
Authors: Lucas P. W. , Tinney C. G. , Burningham Ben , Leggett S. K. , Pinfield David J. , Smart Richard , Jones Hugh R. A. , Marocco Federico , Barber Robert J. , Yurchenko Sergei N. , Tennyson Jonathan , Ishii Miki , Tamura Motohide , Day-Jones Avril C. , Adamson Andrew , Allard France , Homeier Derek
Published: August 2010

We report the discovery of a very cool, isolated brown dwarf, UGPS 0722−05, with the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope Deep Sky Survey (UKIDSS) Galactic Plane Survey. The near-infrared spectrum displays deeper H2O and CH4 troughs than the coolest known T dwarfs and an unidentified absorption feature at 1.275 μm. We provisionally classify the object as a T10 dwarf but note that it may in future come to be regarded as the first example of a new spectral type. The distance is measured by trigonometric parallax as d = 4.1+0.6−0.5 pc, making it the closest known isolated brown dwarf. With the aid of Spitzer/Infrared Array Camera (IRAC) we measure H − [4.5] = 4.71. It is the coolest brown dwarf presently known – the only known T dwarf that is redder in H−[4.5] is the peculiar T7.5 dwarf SDSS J1416+13B, which is thought to be warmer and more luminous than UGPS 0722−05. Our measurement of the luminosity, aided by Gemini/T-ReCS N-band photometry, is L = 9.2 ± 3.1 × 10−7 L⊙. Using a comparison with well-studied T8.5 and T9 dwarfs we deduce Teff = 520 ± 40 K. This is supported by predictions of the Saumon & Marley models. With apparent magnitude J = 16.52, UGPS 0722−05 is the brightest of the ∼90 T dwarfs discovered by UKIDSS so far. It offers opportunities for future study via high-resolution near-infrared spectroscopy and spectroscopy in the thermal infrared.
Electronic working length determination in primary teeth by Propex and Digital Signal Processing
Authors: Nelson‐Filho Paulo , Lucisano Marcela Pacífico , Leonardo Mário Roberto , Da Silva Raquel Assed Bezerra , Da Silva Léa Assed Bezerra
Published: August 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of electronic apex locators Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and ProPex, for root canal length determination in primary teeth. Fifteen primary molars (a total of 34 root canals) were divided into two groups: Group I – without physiological resorption (n = 16); and Group II – with physiological resorption (n = 18). The length of each canal was measured by introducing a file until its tip was visible and then it was retracted 1 mm. For electronic measurement, the devices were set to 1 mm short of the apical resorption. The data were analysed statistically using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results showed that the ICC was high for both electronic apex locators in all situations – with (ICC: DSP = 0.82 and Propex = 0.89) or without resorption (ICC: DSP = 0.92 and Propex = 0.90). Both apex locators were extremely accurate in determining the working length in primary teeth, both with or without physiological resorption.
Water demand management: implementation principles and indicative case studies
Authors: Kampragou Eleni , Lekkas Demetris F. , Assimacopoulos Dionysis
Published: August 2010

Current practices for the efficient use and management of water resources are based on the conjunctive application of water supply and demand measures. Even though options for the augmentation of water supply are widely analysed and assessed, water demand management remains an open field for study, as it is highly dependent on the socio‐economic features of a region and has a site‐specific character. This paper summarizes the guiding principles of demand management and presents some successful application examples of demand management measures from regions that cover a wide range of socioeconomic and environmental conditions in an effort to identify the critical factors for the efficient planning and implementation of demand management plans.
Arsenic removal from aqueous solutions by adsorption on magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Chowdhury Saidur Rahman , Yanful Ernest K.
Published: August 2010

Magnetite nanoparticles were used to treat arsenic‐contaminated water. Because of their large surface area, these particles have an affinity for heavy metals by adsorbing them from a liquid phase. The results of the study showed that the maximum arsenic adsorption occurred at pH 2, with a value of approximately 3.70 mg/g for both As(III) and As(V) when the initial concentration of both arsenic species was maintained at 2 mg/L. The study showed that, apart from pH, the removal of arsenic from contaminated water also depends on the contact time, the initial concentration of arsenic, the phosphate concentration in the water and the adsorbent concentration. The results suggest that arsenic adsorption involved the formation of weak arsenic–iron oxide complexes at the magnetite surface. At a fixed adsorbent (magnetite nanoparticles) concentration of 0.4 g/L, percent arsenic removal decreased with increasing phosphate concentration. Magnetite nanoparticles removed <50% of arsenic from water containing >6 mg/L phosphate. In this case, an optimum design for achieving high arsenic removal by magnetite nanoparticles may be required.
Older orthopaedic patients’ perceptions of individualised care: a comparative survey
Authors: Suhonen Riitta , Leino‐Kilpi Helena
Published: August 2010

suhonen R. & leino‐kilpi h. (2012) Older orthopaedic patients’ perceptions of individualised care: a comparative survey. International Journal of Older People Nursing7, 105–116 doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2010.00243.x

Aim and objectives.  To describe and compare the individualised care perceptions of older orthopaedic patients’ and patients of working age.

Background.  Age has been found to influence perceptions of care and although individualised care is highlighted in the literature, it is seldom studied from an older person’s perspective.

Design.  Descriptive and comparative.

Methods.  Data were collected using the Individualised Care Scale from orthopaedic patients (n = 420, response rate 84%). The participants were divided into two groups: those 65 and over (n = 149) and those under 65 and working (n = 271). Data analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results.  Patients expressed a desire for individualised care, and gave relatively good evaluations about the perceived support for their individuality and the realisation of individualised care. Differences in the perceptions of individualised care were found between, but not within, the two groups. The older patients were more positive in their evaluations.

Conclusions.  There is a need for programmes of individualised care that are age‐adjusted.

Relevance to clinical practice.  As the older population rises worldwide individualised care becomes more important in the care of older people. These findings provide baseline data for the development of individualised nursing care from the patients’ perspective.
The pathogenesis of H3N8 canine influenza virus in chickens, turkeys and ducks
Authors: McKinley Enid T. , Spackman Erica , Pantin‐Jackwood Mary J.
Published: August 2010

Please cite this paper as: McKinley et al. (2010) The pathogenesis of H3N8 canine influenza virus in chickens, turkeys and ducks. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 4(6), 353–356.

Background  Canine influenza virus (CIV) of the H3N8 subtype has emerged in dog populations throughout the United States where it has become endemic in kennels and animal shelters in some regions. It has not previously been determined whether the canine‐adapted H3N8 influenza virus can be transmitted to chickens, turkeys or ducks which are economically important animals that are susceptible to type A influenza virus from numerous species.

Methods  Four‐week‐old specific pathogen–free (SPF) chickens, 3‐week‐old SPF turkeys and 2‐week‐old commercial Pekin ducks were inoculated with 105·2 50% tissue culture infectious doses of CIV per bird by the intra‐choanal route. The birds were observed daily, and at 2 and 4 days post‐inoculation (DPI), two inoculated birds and one sham‐inoculated control bird were euthanized and necropsied to evaluate gross lesions and to collect tissues for microscopic examination. Cloacal and oral swabs were collected at 2, 4 and 7 DPI to evaluate virus shed by real‐time RT‐PCR (rRT‐PCR). Two weeks post‐infection, sera were collected from all remaining birds for type A influenza antibody detection by hemagglutination inhibition assay.

Results  Clinical signs and gross lesions were not observed in any of the birds of any species nor did any seroconvert. Oral and Cloacal swab material was negative for virus by rRT‐PCR.

Conclusions  Chickens, turkeys and Pekin ducks are not susceptible to infection with CIV by simulated respiratory exposure route with the dose administered.
Systemic influenza virus H5N1 infection in cats after gastrointestinal exposure
Authors: Vahlenkamp Thomas W. , Teifke Jens P. , Harder Timm C. , Beer Martin , Mettenleiter Thomas C.
Published: August 2010

Please cite this paper as: Vahlenkamp et al. (2010) Systemic influenza virus H5N1 infection in cats after gastrointestinal exposure. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 4(6), 379–386.

Background  Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) H5N1 infections in felids have been reported in several countries. Feeding on infected birds has been suggested as potential source of infection.

Objectives  The study aimed to verify gastrointestinal infection as possible portal of entry for HPAIV H5N1 in cats.

Methods  Four cats were infected oculo‐nasopharyngeally with 106 50% egg infectious dose (EID50) of HPAIV H5N1 A/cat/Germany/R606/2006. Two cats were infected intravenously with 106 EID50 and two cats were inoculated orally with 107 EID50 HPAIV embedded in gelatine capsules to mimic gastrointestinal exposure and to avoid virus contact to oropharyngeal or respiratory tissues. Cats were monitored for 6 days by physical examination, virus excretion, and peripheral blood lymphocyte counts. Blood chemical parameters (including AST, ALT, CPK, and TBIL) and viral excretion using pharyngeal and rectal swabs were analyzed.

Results  Infected cats showed elevated body temperature up to 41·3°C starting from day 1 or 2 p.i. All infected cats excreted virus in pharyngeal swabs within 2 days p.i. co‐inciding with the development of clinical signs (anorexia, depression, and labored breathing) irrespective of the infection route. Virus dissemination occurred through cell‐free and cell‐associated viremia. Infected cats developed lymphopenia, hepatic necrosis, pneumonia, and significantly elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), and TBIL.

Conclusions  The experiments show that the gastrointestinal tract can serve as portal for the entry of HPAIV H5N1 into cats. Infection routes used did not influence viral tissue tropism and course of disease.
Post‐Mortem Review and Genetic Analysis of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) Cases
Authors: Tu Emily , Bagnall Richard D. , Duflou Johan , Semsarian Christopher
Published: August 2010

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the most frequent epilepsy‐related cause of death and is characterized by an absence of any identifiable cause of death at post‐mortem, suggesting an underlying arrhythmogenic predisposition. This study sought to identify SUDEP cases in a review of post‐mortem records and to undertake genetic studies in key familial long QT syndrome (LQTS) genes. All autopsies performed from 1993‐2009 at a forensic centre in Sydney, Australia were reviewed and SUDEP cases identified. DNA was extracted from post‐mortem blood and the three most common LQTS genes, ie,KCNQ1,KCNH2 (HERG)andSCN5A, were amplified and analyzed. Sixty‐eight SUDEP cases were identified (mean age of 40 ± 16 years). Genetic analysis revealed 6 (13%) non‐synonymous (amino acid changing) variants inKCNH2(n = 2) andSCN5A(n = 4), all previously reported in LQTS patients. Specifically,KCNH2Arg176Trp andSCN5APro1090Leu were identified once in SUDEP cases and absent in control alleles. Both DNA variants have been previously identified in the pathogenesis of LQTS. The cause of SUDEP is currently unknown. Our results indicate that investigation of key ion channel genes should be pursued in the investigation of the relationship between epilepsy and sudden death.
Atypical Prion Protein Conformation in Familial Prion Disease with PRNP P105T Mutation
Authors: Polymenidou Magdalini , Prokop Stefan , Jung Hans H. , Hewer Ekkehard , Peretz David , Moos Rita , Tolnay Markus , Aguzzi Adriano
Published: August 2010

Protease‐resistant prion protein (PrPSc) is diagnostic of prion disease, yet its detection is frequently difficult. Here, we describe a patient with a PRNP P105T mutation and typical familial prion disease. Brain PrPSc was undetectable by conventional Western blotting and barely detectable after phosphotungstate precipitation, where it displayed an atypical pattern suggestive of noncanonical conformation. Therefore, we used a novel misfolded protein assay (MPA) that detects PrP aggregates independently of their protease resistance. The MPA revealed the presence of aggregated PrP in similar amounts as in typical sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease. These findings suggest that measurements of PrP aggregation with the MPA may be potentially more sensitive than protease‐based methodologies.
Quality Characterization of Celery (Apium graveolens L.) by Plant Zones and Two Harvest Dates
Authors: Guerra Natalia , Carrozzi Liliana , Goñi María Gabriela , Roura Sara , Yommi Alejandra
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to characterize the quality of celery petioles (Apium graveolens L. cv Golden Clause) from the external, middle, and internal zones of each plant. Harvest dates were 93 (HD1) and 124 (HD2) days after transplantation. Total weight (TW), total length (TL), total leaves number (LN), and petiole length of leaves (PL) for the 3 zones were measured. Physicochemical (color, b* and h; texture; total soluble solids, TSS; titratable acidity, TA; water content, WC), nutraceutical (ascorbic acid, AA; total quinones, TQ; browning potential, BP), and sensorial analysis (flavor, fibrosity, crunchiness) were done at harvest on petioles of each zone. No differences between harvesting dates were found in TW, TL, LN, and PL. Middle leaves had the highest PL. Harvest dates were not different in b*, h, TA, AA, and WC. Texture, TSS, BP, and TQ resulted higher in petioles of HD2 than in HD1. Similar TSS and TA were found in leaves of different plant zones. The yellow color of both external and internal zones was significantly higher than in the middle zone. The texture and BP was similar between the external and middle zones but the WC was lower in the external zone. Similarly, the AA content as well as the TQ was also lower than in the middle zone. Harvest delay improved the nutraceutical value in terms of BP and TQ, even though it also resulted in pithiness and fibrosity of the leaves. This study therefore suggests that the petioles of the middle zone when harvested at HD1 are the most suitable for consumption.

Practical Application:  Celery is a vegetable reduced in calories, has a high nutritional value and its fresh petioles are mainly consumed in salads. The texture and flavor are the most important attributes that define consumers’ acceptability. As nutritional value, texture, and flavor may change with plant age and different zones of the plant, harvest date plays an important role on quality. Results indicate that harvest delay improved the nutraceutical value even though it also resulted in pithiness and fibrosity of the stalks. Petioles of the middle zone, when harvested at 93 d after transplanting, are the most suitable for consumers’ consumption.
Process Optimization and Consumer Acceptability of Salted Ground Beef Patties Cooked and Held Hot in Flavored Marinade
Authors: Shrestha Subash , Cornforth Daren , Nummer Brian A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Food safety is paramount for cooking hamburger. The center must reach 71 °C (or 68 °C for 15 s) to assure destruction of E. coli O157:H7 and other food pathogens. This is difficult to achieve during grilling or frying of thick burgers without overcooking the surface. Thus, the feasibility of partially or completely cooking frozen patties in liquid (93 °C water) together with hot holding in liquid was investigated. Initial studies demonstrated that compared to frying, liquid cooking decreased (P < 0.05) patty diameter (98 compared with 93 mm) and increased (P < 0.05) thickness (18.1 compared with 15.6 mm). Liquid cooked patties had greater weight loss (P < 0.05) immediately after cooking (29 compared with 21%), but reabsorbed moisture and were not different from fried patties after 1 h hot water holding (61 °C). Protein and fat content were not affected by cooking method. However, liquid cooked patties were rated lower (P < 0.05) than fried patties for appearance (5.7 compared with 7.5) and flavor (5.9 compared with 7.5). An 8‐member focus group then evaluated methods to improve both appearance and flavor. Salted, grill‐marked patties were preferred, and caramel coloring was needed in the marinade to obtain acceptable flavor and color during liquid cooking or hot holding. Patties with 0.75% salt that were grill‐marked and then finish‐cooked in hot marinade (0.75% salt, 0.3% caramel color) were rated acceptable (P < 0.05) by consumers for up to 4 h hot holding in marinade, with mean hedonic panel ratings > 7.0 (like moderately) for appearance, juiciness, flavor, and texture.

Practical Application: Grill‐marked and marinade‐cooked ground beef patties reached a safe internal cooking temperature without overcooking the surface. Burgers cooked using this method maintained high consumer acceptability right after cooking and for up to 4 h of hot holding. Consumers and foodservice operations could use this method without specialized equipment, and instead use inexpensive and common equipment such as a soup pot or a restaurant steam table. Use of marinades (salt/caramel color or others) in this cooking and holding method provides a nearly endless culinary flavoring opportunity.
Recovery of Salmonella enterica Serovars Typhimurium and Tennessee in Peanut Butter after Electron Beam Exposure
Authors: Matak Kristen E. , Hvizdzak Andrea L. , Beamer Sarah , Jaczynski Jacek
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The effect of electron beam (e‐beam) radiation on the recovery of Salmonella serotypes Tennessee (ATCC 10722) and Typhimurium (ATCC 14028) in creamy peanut butter over a 14‐d storage period at 22 °C was studied. Each Salmonella type was independently inoculated into peanut butter and subjected to e‐beam doses that ranged from 0 to 3.1 kGy, confirmed by film dosimetry. After 2‐, 4‐, 6‐, 8‐, and 14‐d of storage, microbial analyses were conducted. Survivors were recovered on growth and selective media using standard spread‐plating methods. Microbial counts (CFU/g) were log‐converted and differences were determined by ANOVA and Tukey's Honestly Significant Differences test. When samples were not e‐beam‐treated, there were no significant changes (P > 0.05) in microbial numbers over time. In e‐beamed samples, microbial numbers decreased over time; however, reductions were not always significant. Initial recovery rates (R‐rates) 2 d after e‐beam treatment were significantly different for the 2 strains of Salmonella and between recovery media (P < 0.05); however, these differences did not persist for the remainder of the storage period (P > 0.05) indicating that injured cells were not able to survive in the high‐fat, low‐water activity peanut butter environment. R‐rates for both strains of Salmonella were maintained until day 14 when there were significant reductions in Salmonella Typhimurium (P < 0.05). These results indicate that Salmonella Tennessee and Salmonella Typhimurium will survive in peanut butter when exposed to nonlethal doses of e‐beam irradiation.

Practical Application: Electron beam (e‐beam) irradiation is an alternative to thermal processing; this technique inactivates microorganisms and insects that might be present in a food by generating radiation by accelerated electrons that inactivate organisms directly because of interaction with cell components and indirectly by producing free radicals that disrupt integrity of the cell membrane. E‐beam radiation will reduce the number of probable microbiological hazards that could be present while the food remains generally unaffected in texture, taste, and nutritional value. A recent study showed e‐beam irradiation to be effective at reducing both Salmonella Tennessee and Typhimurium in peanut butter by one log after exposure to less than 1 kGy, highlighting the need to explore this process further.
Osmosonication of Blackberry Juice: Impact on Selected Pathogens, Spoilage Microorganisms, and Main Quality Parameters
Authors: Wong Eric , Vaillant Fabrice , Pérez Ana
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Osmosonication combines ultrasound with nonthermal concentration. It was applied on tropical highland blackberry (Rubus adenotrichus) juice over different periods of time to assess reductions in microorganism and the impact on main quality parameters. This juice had been inoculated with Salmonella spp., Shigella sp., a lactic acid bacterium, yeasts, and molds. It was then sonicated for 5.9 to 34.1 min at 20 kHz and 0.83 W/mL. Nonthermal concentration was simulated by mixing the juice with a concentrate to obtain 650 g TSS/kg. It was then stored at −18 °C for up to 82 h. The lactic acid bacterium, yeasts, and molds were reduced by 1.60 to as much as 5.01 log10 CFU/mL, whereas, for pathogens, reductions were total ≥7.1 log10 CFU/mL after 24 h of storage, even for juice not sonicated, because of low pH. Color, antioxidant capacity, anthocyanins, and ellagitannins did not change significantly during sonication treatment up to 32 min. However, an off‐flavor was detected after 8 min of sonication. Nonetheless, osmosonication can be considered as an alternative to thermal processes for producing safe and high‐quality concentrates.

Practical Application: Osmosonication represents a potential processing alternative for producing safe and high‐quality concentrated fruit juice without applying thermal treatments. Findings reported in this article can also be applied by industries when concentrating juices by classical means at relatively low temperature. It provides industries with a mathematical model specific for blackberry juice, from which different combinations of sonication time and storage time of concentrate can be chosen to achieve safety and quality goals.
Dimethylamine, Trimethylamine, and Biogenic Amine Formation in High‐Pressure Processed Semidried Squid (Todarodes pacificius) during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Gou Jingyu , Choi Kun‐Pyo , He Xinlong , Ahn Juhee
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The quality properties of semidried squid treated with high‐pressure processing (HPP) were investigated during refrigerated storage. The vacuum‐packed semidried squid samples were subjected to 500 MPa for 0 min (HPP‐0), 5 min (HPP‐5), and 10 min (HPP‐10) by using a custom‐made high‐pressure processor and stored at a refrigerated temperature for 28 d. The populations of indigenous psychrotrophic and mesophilic bacteria were effectively reduced by approximately 1 and 2 log CFU/g at the HPP‐10 treatment, respectively. Compared to the control, the bacterial counts in HPP‐treated semidried squid samples were maintained at low levels throughout the storage period. The increase in the amounts of dimethylamine (DMA) and trimethylamine (TMA) was more pronounced at the unpressurized control than at the HPP treatments. The production of biogenic amines (BAs) varied with HPP treatment during refrigerated storage. Therefore, the application of HPP may provide a significant improvement in the safety and quality of semidried squid.
Synergic Antimicrobial Activity of Lysozyme, Nisin, and EDTA against Listeria Monocytogenes in Ostrich Meat Patties
Authors: Mastromatteo Marianna , Lucera Annalisa , Sinigaglia Milena , Corbo Maria Rosaria
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Synergic antimicrobial activity of lysozyme (250 ppm), nisin (250 ppm), and disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) (20 mM) against Listeria monocytogenes and meat‐borne spoilage bacteria in ostrich patties packaged in air and vacuum was studied. The antimicrobial treatment decreased the L. monocytogenes population in ostrich patties below the official limit of the European Union (<2 log CFU/g). The total viable counts for the treated samples (air and vacuum) showed a reduction of 1 log cycle until to 2 d of storage; after this period the cell load increased. Moreover, the reduction of 2 log cycle for the lactic acid bacteria was observed. Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas spp. were not affected by the antimicrobial treatment in both packaging atmospheres. Sensory evaluation did not differ between treated and untreated samples as regard to the color. The ostrich patties packaged in vacuum had a desirable odor during the storage time and were not affected by antimicrobial treatment. The off‐odors for the patties packaged in air developed faster in the control while the odor scores for the treated samples remained above the rejection point up to the end of storage.

Practical Application: Great interest is developing in food bio‐preservation, because of the ever‐increasing needs to protect consumers’ health and to valorize the naturalness and safety of food products.
Reduction of Off‐Flavor Generation in Soybean Homogenates: A Mathematical Model
Authors: Mellor Nathan , Bligh Frances , Chandler Ian , Hodgman Charlie
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The generation of off‐flavors in soybean homogenates such as n‐hexanal via the lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway can be a problem in the processed food industry. Previous studies have examined the effect of using soybean varieties missing one or more of the 3 LOX isozymes on n‐hexanal generation. A dynamic mathematical model of the soybean LOX pathway using ordinary differential equations was constructed using parameters estimated from existing data with the aim of predicting how n‐hexanal generation could be reduced. Time‐course simulations of LOX‐null beans were run and compared with experimental results. Model L2, L3, and L12beans were within the range relative to the wild type found experimentally, with L13and L23beans close to the experimental range. Model L1beans produced much more n‐hexanal relative to the wild type than those in experiments. Sensitivity analysis indicates that reducing the estimated Kmparameter for LOX isozyme 3 (L‐3) would improve the fit between model predictions and experimental results found in the literature. The model also predicts that increasing L‐3 or reducing L‐2 levels within beans may reduce n‐hexanal generation.

Practical Application: This work describes the use of mathematics to attempt to quantify the enzyme‐catalyzed conversions of compounds in soybean homogenates into undesirable flavors, primarily from the compound n‐hexanal. The effect of different soybean genotypes and enzyme kinetic constants was also studied, leading to recommendations on which combinations might minimize off‐flavor levels and what further work might be carried out to substantiate these conclusions.
Evaluation of Parameters that Affect the 4‐Dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde Assay for Flavanols and Proanthocyanidins
Authors: Wallace Taylor C. , Giusti M. Monica
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Proanthocyanidins are widely distributed in nature and represent the most abundant flavonoids consumed in the diet. Recent attention has been given to these compounds because of their health‐promoting properties toward chronic diseases. Because of their large degrees of chemical variation and stereochemistry, isolation/quantification is difficult. The 4‐dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC) spectrophotometric assay has become increasingly popular as a rapid technique to quantify the amount of proanthocyanidins present in foods and beverages; however, there is no current industry standard. In this study, several parameters affecting the DMAC reaction with catechin were examined. Effects of acid nature (hydrochloric acid [HCl] and sulfuric acid [H2SO4]) and concentration (2 to 10 N), temperature (5 to 45 °C), reaction time (2 to 35 min), sample water content (1 to 100%), DMAC concentration (1 to 3%), and interference of 8 different substances were evaluated. A mixture of 2% DMAC in methanol (w/v) in 6 N H2SO4 (50:50 v/v) showed the highest slope in the standard curve when allowed to react for 15 to 35 min prior to analysis. For samples containing high concentrations of oligomeric proanthocyanidins, a reaction time of 20 to 35 min is recommended. The reaction of catechin with DMAC at constant room temperature (21 to 25 °C), with a sample water content of less than 1% was found to increase reproducibility and better assess the amount of catechin. Sample water contents higher than 1% showed significant bleaching effects on the color produced, when catechin concentrations were high (lower levels showed no significant differences). None of the substances examined in this study interfered with the assay; however, other compounds present in various food matrices may have an effect on color development.
High‐Intensity Pulsed Electric Fields Processing Parameters Affecting Polyphenoloxidase Activity of Strawberry Juice
Authors: Aguiló‐Aguayo Ingrid , Soliva‐Fortuny Robert , Martín‐Belloso Olga
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  High‐intensity pulsed electric fields (HIPEF) were applied to strawberry juice to study the feasibility of inactivating polyphenoloxidase (PPO). Response surface methodology was used to evaluate the effect of HIPEF processing, in which total treatment time (1000 to 2000 μs), pulse frequency (50 to 250 Hz), pulse width (1.0 to 7.0 μs), and polarity (monopolar or bipolar) were the controlled variables at a constant electric field of 35 kV/cm. The proposed 2nd‐order response functions were accurate enough to fit experimental results. Strawberry juice PPO was strongly reduced within the range of assayed conditions. HIPEF treatments were more effective in bipolar than in monopolar mode in inactivating PPO. Treatments of longer duration resulted in reductions of the enzyme activity. Moreover, it was feasible to minimize residual PPO activity (down to 2.5%) by selecting bipolar treatments at frequencies higher than 229 Hz and pulse widths between 3.23 and 4.23 μs for a constant total treatment time of 2000 μs.
Effect of Acid‐ and Alkaline‐Aided Extractions on Functional and Rheological Properties of Proteins Recovered from Mechanically Separated Turkey Meat (MSTM)
Authors: Hrynets Yuliya , Omana Dileep A. , Xu Yan , Betti Mirko
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Functional and rheological characteristics of acid‐ and alkali‐extracted proteins from mechanically separated turkey meat (MSTM) have been investigated. Extractions were carried out at 4 pH values (2.5, 3.5, 10.5, and 11.5). The study demonstrated that alkali and acid extractions resulted in significant (P < 0.0001) decreases of cooking and water loss compared to raw MSTM; however, the cooking loss was found to be similar (P = 0.5699) among the different protein isolates. Proteins extracted at pH 10.5 showed the lowest (P = 0.0249) water loss. Emulsion and foaming properties were found to be slightly higher in alkali‐extracted proteins compared to those for acid extractions. The myofibrillar protein fraction showed better ability to form and stabilize emulsions compared to sarcoplasmic proteins. Myofibrillar proteins also showed better foam expansion; however, foam volume stability was similar for both myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic protein fractions. Textural characteristics (hardness, chewiness, springiness, and cohesiveness) of recovered proteins were found to be unaffected (P > 0.05) by different extraction pH. The protein extracted at pH 3.5 formed a highly viscoelastic gel network as evidenced by storage modulus (G′) values, whereas the gel formed from proteins extracted at pH 10.5 was found to be the weakest. The work also revealed that acid treatments were more effective for removal of total heme pigments from MSTM. Color characteristics of protein isolates were markedly improved compared to the initial material and tended to be better when subjected to acid extractions.

Practical Application: Mechanically separated meat is one of the cheapest sources of protein obtained by grinding meat and bones together and forcing the mixture through a perforated drum. The use of mechanically separated turkey meat (MSTM) for the production of further processed poultry products is limited due to its undesirable color and textural properties. Recovery of proteins from MSTM using pH shifting process will help the poultry processors to get better returns and also create opportunity to produce functional food ingredients.
Trans Fatty Acids Content and Fatty Acid Profiles in the Selected Food Products from Korea between 2005 and 2008
Authors: Lee Jeung Hee , Adhikari Prakash , Kim Seong‐Ai , Yoon Taehyung , Kim In‐Hwan , Lee Ki‐Teak
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Since a high intake of trans fatty acids (TFA) has been associated with the increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, food regulation worldwide has been amended with respect to nutrition labeling and health claims on TFA. In the present study, the TFA levels of Korean food products were investigated to assess the regulation effect of TFA labeling. Same Korean food products within 7 different categories were purchased in years 2005 and 2008, and the contents of TFA and lipid and fatty acid composition were investigated. Lipid and TFA contents decreased in all food products manufactured in 2008. TFA levels were 0.01 to 6.88 g/100 g food in 2005, but the levels remarkably decreased to nondetectable level or up to 0.5 g TFA/100 g food in 2008. The foods from 2005 contained a various level of TFA ranging 0.6% to 44.6% of total fatty acids; however, the TFA level significantly decreased in most foods up to 3.8% from year 2008. For TFAs, trans C18:1 levels were greater than trans isomers of C18:2, and the levels in 2005 were significantly reduced in 2008 (P < 0.05). TFA levels at the sn‐2 position were up to 48.3% of total fatty acids in 2005, but the level considerably decreased up to 5.4% in 2008. The considerably decreased content of TFA in 2008 suggested that food manufacturers recognized the adverse effect of TFA on human health and followed the compulsory trans fat labeling rule by Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA), which started December 2007.
Development and Evaluation of Fiber Optic Probe‐based Helium–Neon Low‐level Laser Therapy System for Tissue Regeneration—An In Vivo Experimental Study
Authors: Prabhu Vijendra , Rao Satish B.S. , Rao Nageshwara B. , Aithal Kiran B. , Kumar Pramod , Mahato Krishna K.
Published: August 2010

We report the design and development of an optical fiber probe‐based Helium–Neon (He–Ne) low‐level laser therapy system for tissue regeneration. Full thickness excision wounds on Swiss albino mice of diameter 15 mm were exposed to various laser doses of 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 and 10 J cm−2 of the system with appropriate controls, and 2 J cm−2 showing optimum healing was selected. The treatment schedule for applying the selected laser dose was also standardized by irradiating the wounds at different postwounding times (0, 24 and 48 h). The tissue regeneration potential was evaluated by monitoring the progression of wound contraction and mean wound healing time along with the hydroxyproline and glucosamine estimation on wound ground tissues. The wounds exposed to 2 J cm−2 immediately after wounding showed considerable contraction on days 5, 9, 12, 14, 16 and 19 of postirradiation compared with the controls and other treatment schedules, showing significant (P < 0.001) decrease in the healing time. A significant increase in hydroxyproline and glucosamine levels was observed for the 2 J cm−2 irradiation group compared with the controls and other treatment groups. In conclusion, the wounds treated with 2 J cm−2 immediately after the wounding show better healing compared with the controls.
Characteristics of patients referred to a UK trigeminal nerve injury service
Authors: Robinson P.P.
Published: August 2010

Aim:  Patients suffering from a persistent sensory disturbance or pain following a trigeminal nerve injury are frequently referred to a specialist centre for evaluation. This study reports the characteristics of the patients seen on a designated nerve injury clinic during 2008.

Methods:  Information from 100 consecutive patients was collated, including demographic details, source of referral, nerve damaged, cause of the injury, presence or absence of dysaesthesia and nature of the treatment, if offered.

Results:  There were 70 females and 30 males, with a mean age at presentation of 42 years (range 21–78 years). Sixty‐five per cent of referrals were from a consultant, and patients travelled from a wide geographical distribution across England, Wales and Ireland. The delay between nerve injury and referral ranged from 1 month to 5 years. Fifty‐six per cent of the patients had sustained an inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury and 44% had a lingual nerve injury. Most injuries (59%) were caused by lower third molar removal, but there were numerous other causes, including 10% associated with local anaesthetic administration. A similar proportion of patients reported symptoms of dysaesthesia after lingual nerve (41%) and IAN (45%) injuries. Only 41% of patients were treated (52% of lingual nerve injuries and 32% of IAN injuries), and this usually involved microsurgical repair (lingual nerve injuries) or decompression and neurolysis (IAN injuries).

Conclusions:  The highly selected population of patients that received tertiary referral to a specialist nerve injury clinic were most commonly female and 30–50 years old. A substantial proportion had dysaesthesia, and these patients were most likely to be offered treatment.
Oral health, general health, and quality of life in older people
Authors: Kandelman Daniel , Petersen Poul Erik , Ueda Hiroshi
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this report is to review the interrelationship between poor oral health conditions of older people and general health. The impact of poor oral health on quality of life (QOL) is analyzed, and the implications for public health intervention and oral health care are discussed. Findings from the current research may lead to the following conclusions: The available scientific evidence is particularly strong for a direct relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease; the direct relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease is less convincing. General and associated oral health conditions have a direct influence on elder people's QOL and lifestyle. The growing number of elderly people challenges health authorities in most countries. The evidence on oral health–general health relationships is particularly important to WHO in its effort to strengthen integrated oral health promotion and disease prevention around the globe.
Developing a series of conservative anchor markers and their application to phylogenomics of Laurasiatherian mammals
Authors: ZHOU XUMING , XU SHIXIA , ZHANG PAN , YANG GUANG
Published: August 2010

The availability of numerous universal markers and suitable phylogenetic analysis methods are both very important for phylogenomics inference. Based on PCR amplification, a total of 122 markers, which were amplified in 19 representative species, were developed for Laurasiatherian phylogenomics. Subsequently, we illustrated the utility of these newly developed markers using a subset of eight markers. We showed that both ‘supermatrix’ and ‘supertree’ trees generated similar topology, which accorded with the current understanding of the Laurasiatherian phylogeny in most aspects. Thus, markers developed here would be likely to make a contribution to resolving evolutionary relationships and inferring evolutionary histories of the Laurasiatherian mammals in the future.
A new PCR‐RFLP‐based method for an easier systematic affiliation of European water frogs
Authors: PATRELLE CÉCILE , OHST TORSTEN , PICARD DAMIEN , PAGANO ALAIN , SOURICE STÉPHANE , DALLAY MARIE‐GAËLLE , PLÖTNER JÖRG
Published: August 2010

We describe a non‐invasive, PCR‐RFLP‐based method that allows reliable determination of the European water frog species Pelophylax lessonae and Pelophylax ridibundus and the hybrid form Pelophylax esculentus. Maximum‐likelihood analysis of ITS2 sequences revealed two robust monophyletic clades corresponding to water frogs of the P. lessonae and P. ridibundus groups. Three restriction enzymes (KpnI, HaeII, and SmaI) were used to digest three conserved ITS2 domains. Taxonomic identification was unambiguous; the three restriction enzymes gave the same results. A French reference sample was identified using allozyme electrophoresis. Our PCR‐RFLP method confirmed circa 83% of identification of the allozyme method. We conclude that the difference between identifications was caused by introgression.