bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification, properties and characterization of a high‐molecular‐mass b‐galactosidase isoenzyme from Thermusaquaticus YT‐I
Authors: Berger Jean‐Luc , Lee Byong H. , Lacroix Christophe
Published: October 2012

An unusual high‐molecular‐mass b‐galactosidase isoenzyme from Thermus aquaticus YT‐1 was purified to homogeneity by chromatography using gel filtration (Ultrogel AcA 34), anion‐exchange (Mono Q) and gel filtration (Superose‐12). The molecular mass of the purified enzyme was > 700 kDa as estimated by gel filtration, and its subunit molecular mass was 59 ± 1 kDa as determined by SDS/PAGE. A single protein band of pI 4.9 was obtained by isoelectric‐focusing gel electrophoresis. The optimum tempera‐ture and pH for enzyme activity were 80 ° C and pH 5.5 respectively. The enzyme was stable over a wide pH range (pH 3‐12), and the thermostability of the enzyme was enhanced by CaCl2. The enzyme was significantly activated by alkali and alkaline‐earth‐metal salts. Whereas reducing agents enhanced b‐galactosidase activity, thiol‐binding agents drastically decreased the enzyme activity. The enzyme was strongly inhibited by the end products of the lactose hydrolysis reaction. The b‐galactosidase was specific for b‐D anomeric linkages, and the identity of the aglycone moiety also influenced enzyme activity dramatically. Oligosaccharide (OS) formation rates were directly related to lactose concentration. At a concentration of 19.4% (w/v) lactose, OS accounted for approx. 20′ of the total carbohydrates, and only two types of OS were observed. Moreover, once formed, OS were not rehydrolysed to monosaccharides, even during long residence times. OS synthesis was also observed with cellobiose and lactulose. Fructose, xylose, lyxose, rhamnose and arabinose were active as galactosyl acceptors, in contrast with glucose, ribose, fucose, tagatose and N‐acetyl‐glucosamine.
Studies of DEAE‐dextran‐mediated gene transfer
Authors: Yang Ya‐Wun , Yang Jyh‐Chyang
Published: October 2012

DEAE‐dextran‐mediated gene transfer was studied for the introduction of pSV2neo DNA into Fisher‐rat 3T3 (FR3T3) cells. Zeta (z) potentials of the DEAE‐dextranŐDNA complexes and FR3T3 cells were found to be dependent on the concentration of DEAE‐dextran in the medium. The maximum transfection efficiency occurred at a DEAE‐dextran/DNA ratio of 50:1 or thereabouts. The interaction between DNA and cells is determined by the adsorption process. The results obtained, along with the correlation between the kinetic adsorption behaviour of 3H‐labelled DNA and the transfection efficiency, indicated that adsorption of DEAE‐dextranŐDNA complexes to the negatively charged cell surfaces, due to electrostatic and dispersion attraction, plays the decisive role in determining the DNA transfection efficiencies.
Immobilization of hydroperoxide lyase from Chlorella
Authors: Nuñez Alberto , Armand Gary St. , Foglia Thomas A. , Piazza George J.
Published: October 2012

Hydroperoxide lyase (HPLS) isolated from microalgae is an enzyme that oxidatively cleaves 13‐hydro‐peroxy‐cis‐9‐trans‐11‐octadecadienoic acid to a C13 oxocarboxylic acid and a small C5 fragment. Acetone powder extracts from Chlorella pyrenoidosa and C. fusca that contained HPLS were partly purified by chromatography on DEAE‐Sepharose CL‐6B. Five commercially available gels were evaluated for their ability to immobilize the HPLS preparations by determining their capacity for protein binding and the activity and stability of immobilized HPLS. It was found that Reacti‐Gel (6X) and Affi‐Gels 10, 15, 102 and 501 could bind 60Ő90% of the available protein. However, HPLS activity was detected only when the enzyme was immobilized on Affi‐Gels 10, 15 and 501. The stability of immobilized HPLS during storage at 5° C for several months was determined. Product yields with repeated use of the immobilized preparations were also determined. These measurements demonstrated that Affi‐Gel 10 and 501 are the best gels for the immobilization of HPLS. A pH study of HPLS immobilized on Affi‐Gel 501 showed that enzymic activity was retained from pH 6 to pH 9, with maximal activity at pH 6.5.
Aging of Penicillium chrysogenum cultures under carbon starvation: I: morphological changesand secondary metabolite production
Authors: Pusztahelyi Tünde , Pócsi István , Kozma József , Szentirmai Attila
Published: October 2012

In aging carbon‐depleted cultures of an industrial b‐lactam‐producing strain of Penicillium chrysogenum the fragmentation and autolysis of mycelia was coupled with high production of NH3 (71.6 mM) and oxalate (37.8 mM) and low production of b‐lactam (0.24 mM). Round‐ended hyphal fragments consisting of two cells were found to be the dominant surviving forms, and addition of an extra dose of glucose in the autolytic phase reversed the biomass degradation by reinitiating cell growth.
Aging of Penicillium chrysogenum cultures under carbon starvation: II: protease andN‐acetyl‐b‐D‐hexosaminidase production
Authors: Pusztahelyi Tünde , Pócsi István , Szentirmai Attila
Published: October 2012

In aging carbon‐depleted cultures of Penicillium chrysogenum the fragmentation and autolysis of old mycelia were coupled with the production of high levels of extracellular protease and N‐acetyl‐b‐D‐hexosaminidase; this could be stopped by the addition of an extra dose of glucose at any incubation time tested, but was not affected by endogenous NH3. After the addition of glucose, intracellular enzyme accumulation was observed only for the N‐acetyl‐b‐D‐hexosaminidase, and the concomitant decrease in both the extracellular protease and N‐acetyl‐b‐D‐hexosaminidase activities was not caused by the action of extracellular proteases. The physiological function of the N‐acetyl‐b‐D‐hexosaminidase remains to be elucidated because the P. chrysogenum culture studied did not utilize N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine as a carbon source. However, the proteases (mainly serine and, to a much smaller extent, metalloproteases) might provide surviving hyphal fragments with sufficient amino acids to maintain the cryptic growth observed in aging carbon‐depleted cultures.
Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Kemp Graham
Published: October 2012

Capillary electrophoresis is a sensitive and versatile technique which has emerged over the past 10 years into the forefront of analytical methodology. Its applicability is enhanced by short separation times, facile and rapid methods of development and a requirement for very small amounts of analyte. This article reviews basic principles behind the technique and the range of options which allow the same instrument to be used for the separation and analysis of a wide range of analytes from large biomolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, to metal and organic ions while having the capability to resolve enantiomers and non‐charged molecules.
Action of Trichoderma Reesei and Aspergillus Oryzae Esterases in the Deacetylation of Hemicelluloses
Authors: Tenkanen Maija
Published: October 2012

Xylans and mannans contain different esterified substituents such as acetyl, feruloyl and p‐coumaroyl side groups. The functions of hemicellulose‐deacetylating esterases of Trichoderma reesei and Aspergillus oryzae are discussed in this paper. Both fungi produce multiple esterases and two different esterases were isolated from both T. reesei and A. oryzae. The enzymes differed significantly in their substrate specificities. Acetyl xylan esterase of T. reesei was highly active on polymeric xylan but was unable to remove acetyl substituents from glucomannan or phenolic substituents from wheat straw arabinoxylan. Another esterase, acetyl esterase from T. reesei, had activity only towards short oligomeric and monomeric acetates derived both from xylan and glucomannan. The acetyl glucomannan esterase of A. oryzae was most active towards polymeric glucomannan, but was also able to remove acetyl groups from xylan. The only esterase studied which was active against phenolic substituents in arabinoxylans was the feruloyl esterase from A. oryzae. Feruloyl esterase had the widest substrate specificity of the esterases studied. It was also able to act on acetyl groups both in xylan and in glucomannan. The simultaneous enzymic liberation of acetyl groups from xylan and glucomannan clearly enhanced the action of xylan‐ and mannan‐degrading enzymes, thus increasing the hydrolysis yield significantly. However, none of the esterases was able to remove all acetyl substituents when acting alone and simultaneous action of two esterases was needed for complete deacetylation.
Plant‐Cell‐Wall‐Degrading Enzymes Produced by the White‐Rot Fungus Ceriporiopsis Subvermispora
Authors: Sethuraman Anand , Akin Danny E. , Eriksson Karl‐Erik L.
Published: October 2012

The production of various plant‐cell‐wall‐degrading enzymes by the white‐rot fungus Ceriporiopsis subvermispora was monitored in shake‐flask cultures. Analyses included various cellulolytic (i.e. endo‐1,4‐b‐glucanase, exo‐1,4‐b‐glucanase, 1,4‐b‐glucosidase), hemicellulolytic (i.e. xylanases, 1,4‐b‐xylosidases, mannanases, 1,4‐b‐mannosidases), and ligninolytic (i.e. laccase and manganese peroxidase) enzymes. Other enzymes studied were polyendogalacturonase, proteases, amylases, phenolic acid esterases and lipases. Glucose, cellobiose, avicel and Whatman cellulose were the primary carbon sources used. Other substrates were birch‐wood xylan, galacto‐mannan and citrus pectin. Ground stems of two fibrous plants, flax and kenaf, were the substrates representing a complete cell‐wall composition used. Endo‐1,4‐b‐glucanase and 1,4‐b‐glucosidase activities were detected in certain culture solutions but, interestingly, no significant amount of exo‐1,4‐b‐glucanase activity was found in cultures of any of the carbon sources. Avicel, in general, gave rise to higher fungal growth and enzyme production compared to the more crystalline Whatman cellulose. Xylanase and mannanase activities were readily detected under all culture conditions used. Flax and kenaf flour generally induced more enzyme production over xylan, mannan and pectin. Laccase and manganese peroxidase were the two ligninolytic enzymes produced. Pectin, xylan and mannan induced more polyendogalacturonase than other substrates. Proteases and amylases were also produced, but no lipase activity was detected. C. subvermispora also produced phenolic acid esterases in the avicel and xylan cultures. Preference for a more amorphous cellulose, avicel and hemicelluloses over a more crystalline Whatman cellulose as substrates for active growth is most likely the reason for the lignin specificity of C. subvermispora. Enzyme profiles suggest that C. subvermispora shows a potential for various industrial applications where removal of the lignin components, while maintaining cellulosic fibre strength property, is important.
Structure and Expression of the D‐amino‐acid Oxidase Gene from the Yeast Rhodosporidium Toruloides
Authors: Liao Gwo‐Jen , Lee Yi‐Jang , Lee Yun‐Huey , Chen Lee‐Lin , Chu Wen‐Shen
Published: October 2012

D‐Amino‐acid oxidase (DAO2; EC 1.4.3.3) catalyses the oxidative deamination of D‐amino acids to a‐keto acids and ammonia. The purified DAO protein from Rhodosporidium toruloides was used to determine its amino acid sequence. Three internal peptide sequences, YCQYLARELQ, IAGIDDQAAEPIR and RCTMDSSDP, were obtained and used to synthesize four fully degenerated oligonucleotides for cloning of the DAO gene. Both cDNA and genomic DNA encoding R. toruloides DAO were cloned and sequenced. Comparison of these two DNA sequences revealed that the DAO gene contains six exons and five introns. The gene encodes a polypeptide of 368 amino acids with a calculated molecular mass of 40079 Da. Using an Escherichia coli protein expression system, the DAO protein of R. toruloides can easily be produced in an active form and purified in a large quantity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Recombinant, Authentic Human Prolactin Secreted into the Periplasmic Space of Escherichia Coli
Authors: Morganti Ligia , Soares Carlos R. J. , Affonso Regina , Gout Peter W. , Bartolini Paolo
Published: October 2012

Recombinant, fully bioactive, authentic human prolactin (aut‐hPRL) has been synthesized in transformed Escherichia coli HB2151 bacteria in a soluble, non‐glycosylated form, which is secreted into the bacterial periplasm. Use was made of a bacterial expression vector, containing tac promoter‐controlled sequences for the translation enhancer from bacteriophage T7 gene 10, and for a cellulase leader peptide from Cellulomonas fimi joined to sequences coding for aut‐hPRL. This vector was derived from a previously described vector containing sequences of an hPRL variant, tag‐hPRL (containing a 12‐amino‐acid peptide tag at the N‐terminal end), using site‐specific mutagenesis to delete the tag sequence. SDS/PAGE, partial N‐terminal amino acid sequence analysis, Western blot analysis and Nb2 lymphoma cell in vitro bioassay indicated correct processing of the hormone. Periplasmic secretion of aut‐hPRL, as measured by immunoassay, was relatively low (approx. 0.08 mg/ml per A600 unit), in contrast to that of tag‐hPRL which was approximately 8‐fold higher, apparently a consequence of the tag sequence. This is the first report describing periplasmic secretion of biologically active, authentic hPRL.
The Application of Molecular Techniques in Environmental Biotechnology for Monitoring Microbial Systems
Authors: Schneegurt Mark A. , Kulpa Charles F.
Published: October 2012

Traditional methods of bacterial enumeration are often insufficient for monitoring the specific microbes critical for important biochemical reactions in complex, mixed microbial communities. Molecular methods have been developed that can detect and quantify phylogenetic groups on the basis of rDNA sequences and relevant structural genes. Many of these techniques rely on PCR for the amplification of DNA sequences that might be in low abundance in a mixed microbial community. Reverse transcriptase can be coupled to PCR for measuring gene expression on the basis of mRNA abundance. Microbial diversity and community structure can be addressed by further examination of PCR products by various separation techniques and restriction analyses. Microscopic examination of the architecture of intact microbial communities such as biofilms and flocs can be enhanced by using fluorescently labelled population‐specific rRNA probes. The molecular techniques described in this review can enhance the science and practice of environmental biotechnology by providing ways of characterizing mixed microbial communities rapidly on a phylogenetic basis and in terms of specific enzymic activities.
Expression and Secretion of Beta‐Galactosidase in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Using the Signal Sequences of Ggpi, the Major Yeast Glycosylphosphatidylinositol‐Containing Protein
Authors: Pignatelli Raffaella , Vai Marina , Alberghina Lilia , Popolo Laura
Published: October 2012

New secretory signals and strategies can be attempted to improve the secretion of heterologous proteins of biotechnological interest which encounter difficulties being exported in yeast. The GGP1 gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae codes for a 125 kDa glycoprotein transported through the secretory pathway and anchored to the plasma membrane by means of a glycosylphosphatidylinositol. The regions coding for the secretory signal or also for the first 46 amino acids were tested for efficiency in secretion by fusion to the lacZ gene of Escherichia coli resulting in the synthesis of the endoplasmic reticulum‐targeted 1–22‐ and 1–68‐Ggp1p/ b‐gal hybrids. A cytoplasmic form was also examined. The 1‐22bgal is partially transported to the cell surface and in the medium in an unglycosylated form. The 1–68 bgal is completely retained in the intracellular membranes and is N‐glycosylated in the Ggp1p moiety. The amount of hybrid protein produced is similar and independent from its targeted site, suggesting that translocation through endoplasmic reticulum is not a limiting step, whereas the amount of active enzyme is from 50 to 80% lower for the endoplasmic reticulum forms compared with the cytoplasmic form. BiP/Kar2p putative precursor is accumulated in cells expressing the endoplasmic reticulum‐targeted forms but not in those producing the cytosolic b‐galactosidase or overexpressing an endogenous secretory protein. Thus, glycosylation and abnormal folding rather than overexpression are among the factors responsible for the decreased activity and exit of b‐galactosidase from the endoplasmic reticulum and for induction of BiP. The results obtained indicate that the sole secretory signal of Ggp1p is suitable to drive secretion of foreign products with complex folding and point to the importance of the endoplasmic reticulum quality control in the secretion of heterologous proteins in yeast.
Adsorption Kinetics and Behaviour of Two Cellobiohydrolases from Trichoderma Reesei on Microcrystalline Cellulose
Authors: Kim Dong Won , Jang Young Hun , Jeong Young Kyu
Published: October 2012

In order to investigate the adsorption behaviour of cellobiohydrolase I in combination with cellobiohydrolase II (CBH I and CBH II) purified from Trichoderma reesei cellulase on Avicel 101, CBH I and II and their various compositions were adsorbed at 5–35 C. All adsorptions were found to apparently obey the Langmuir isotherm, and the thermodynamic parameters, DHa, DSa and DGa were calculated from the adsorption equilibrium constant, Kad. CBH I had a higher adsorption affinity (Kad) and tightness (‐DHa) for Avicel than CBH II. This indicates that CBH I showed stronger preferential adsorption than CBH II. The reconstituted CBH I and II mixture showed maximum affinity and tightness at a weight ratio of 1:4. The CBH I and II mixture displayed a significant synergistic degradation of Avicel, with a maximum found at a proportion of CBH I and II of 1:4. The increase of affinity (Kad) and tightness (‐ DHa) for the adsorption of CBH I combined with CBH II goes in parallel with their maximum synergistic degradation. It indicates that tightness and affinity of adsorption play a crucial role in synergistic degradation of the microcrystalline cellulose. At a specific weight ratio of CBH I and II, the maximum affinity and tightness of these components existed, and the degree of synergism was maximized at this condition. The synergism of two CBHs can be explained by assuming the formation of a partial complex of CBH I and II, which has higher adsorption affinity and tightness than the individual components, and different specificity in the cellulose attack at a specific optimum ratio of CBHs.
Determination of Urinary Oxalate with Oxalate Oxidase and Peroxidase Immobilized on to Glass Beads
Authors: Pundir C. S. , Kuchhal N. K. , Bhargava A. K.
Published: October 2012

We have reported the immmobilization of barley oxalate oxidase on to alkylamine glass beads through glutaraldehyde coupling (Pundir, C. S., Satyapal and Kuchhal, N. K. (1993) Clinical Chemistry 39, 1750×1751). The present report describes the immobilization of commercially available horseradish peroxidase on to zirconia‐coated arylamine glass beads through diazotization and a new method for the discrete assay of urinary oxalate using both immobilized oxalate oxidase and peroxidase. In the method, urinary oxalate is precipitated with CaCl2, redissolved in HCl and then assayed using immobilized enzymes. The oxalate in 24 h urine samples from apparently healthy male adults was measured by this method and found to be in the range of 12.2–28.0 mg with a mean of 19.8 mg. The percentage recovery of added oxalate (17.5 mg/l) was 96.7 3.4 (mean SD). The mean value of urinary oxalate by our method is comparable with those obtained by the Sigma kit method. The cost of oxalate determination in 100 urine samples by the present method has been compared with that of the Sigma kit method.
Alpha‐Factor Pro‐Peptide N‐linked Oligosaccharides Facilitate Secretion of the Insulin Precursor in Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Authors: Kjeldsen Thomas , Andersen Asser S. , Hach Morten , Diers Ivan , Nikolajsen Jesper , Markussen Jan
Published: October 2012

Toevaluate the possible relationship between N‐linked glycosylation ofthe Saccharomycescerevisiae a‐factor pro‐peptideand transport of the a‐factor pro‐peptide/insulin precursorfusion protein through the Saccharomyces cerevisiae secretory pathway, we analysed secretion of insulin precursor facilitated by a‐factor pro‐peptides with one or more of the three N‐linked glycosylation sites removed. Mutation of the three a‐factor pro‐peptide N‐linked glycosylation sites drastically decreased insulin precursor secretion. The three a‐factor pro‐peptide N‐linked glycosylation sites differ in their ability to facilitate secretion of the insulin precursor. The two a‐factor pro‐peptide N‐linked glycosylation sites localized closest to the insulin precursor contributed significantly to secretion, whereas the most N‐terminally linked glycosylation site did not appear to facilitate secretion. Only correctly folded insulin precursor was found in the culture supernatant, regardless of the pro‐peptide used for secretion, indicating that a‐factor pro‐peptide N‐linked oligosaccharide chains are not necessary for correct folding of the insulin precursor. Thus, N‐linked glycosylation facilitates intracellular transport of the a‐factor propeptide/insulin precursor fusion protein through the Saccharomyces cerevisiae secretory pathway and secretion of the insulin precursor. N‐linked glycosylation per se is not sufficient to facilitate secretion of the insulin precursor; the position of the N‐linked oligosaccharide chain on the a‐factor pro‐peptide is important for facilitating efficient secretion.
Were Pleistocene hippopotamuses exposed to climate‐driven body size changes?
Authors: Mazza Paul P. A. , Bertini Adele
Published: October 2012

This study proposes a working hypothesis that Mediterranean hippopotamuses, and perhaps European ones as well, reduced their size, sometimes even drastically, from the ‘Mid‐Pleistocene Revolution’ (MPR, c.1.2–0.5 Ma) to the Late Pleistocene. In contrast to the Early Pleistocene, during this time period glacial/interglacial cycling was dominated by a 100‐ka periodicity, with more extended glacial phases (up to 85 ka) alternating with shorter interglacial phases (up to 15 ka). These changes seem to have somehow affected the size of hippopotamuses. While relatively larger hippopotamuses have been found in warmer and somewhat more humid intervals, data seem to indicate that they might not have grown as large under less favourable conditions, namely during colder and comparatively drier times. This is a possible response to climate‐driven fluctuations in food availability, but Pleistocene habitat fragmentation may also have had an influence. Environmental break‐up during the late Quaternary led to the isolation of megafauna populations, which underwent modifications similar to those observed in insular mammals. Although the amount of remains available is still limited, it is nonetheless a fact that hippopotamuses changed their body size through time, normally becoming smaller. If the conclusions are confirmed as data continue to accumulate, hippopotamuses might cast doubt on the generality of Bergmann's rule.
An interglacial polar bear and an earlyWeichselian glaciation atPoolepynten, westernSvalbard
Authors: Alexanderson Helena , Ingólfsson Ólafur , Murray Andrew S. , Dudek Justyna
Published: October 2012

The recent discovery of a subfossil polar bear (Ursus maritimus) jawbone in thePoolepynten coastal cliff sequence, westernSvalbard, and its implications for the natural history of the polar bear motivated an effort to better constrain the environmental history and age envelope of thePoolepynten sediment sequence. The focus of the present study is on the lithostratigraphy of the coastal cliffs and on re‐dating the sequence using the Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating technique. We report a revised lithostratigraphy and nine newOSLages. It is concluded that thePoolepynten sequence contains evidence of four regional glaciation events, recorded in the strata as erosional unconformities or glacial deposits followed by shallow‐marine deposition signifying transgressions and subsequent glacio‐isostatic rebound and regression. OurOSLages refine previous age determinations (14CandIRSL) and support the interpretation that the subfossil polar bear jawbone is probably of last interglacial (Eemian) age.
Vaginal Infections Update
Authors: Mashburn Jane
Published: October 2012

Vaginal symptoms are one of the leading reasons that women visit their health care providers. Women often self‐diagnose and may treat themselves inappropriately. This article describes the etiology, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of the 3 most common vaginal infections: bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and vulvovaginal candidiasis.
Effect of local anaesthetic infiltration with bupivacaine and ropivacaine on wound healing: a placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Abrão João , Fernandes Cleverson R , White Paul F , Shimano Antonio C , Okubo Rodrigo , Lima Giovanni BP , Bachur José A , Garcia Sérgio B
Published: October 2012

Infiltration of surgical wounds with long‐acting local anaesthetics (LA) is used to reduce postoperative incisional pain. We hypothesised that infiltration with LA interferes with wound healing in rats. Seventy‐two rats were allocated into nine groups. After intraperitoneal anaesthesia, the interscapular dorsal region was infiltrated with equivolumes of saline, 0·5% bupivacaine or ropivacaine, in a randomised double‐blind fashion. A standardised incision was performed in the infiltrated area and sutured closed. The rats were euthanised on the 3rd or 14th day after the operation and tissue from the incision site was subjected to histochemical analyses and mechanical testing (MT). Compared with the control group, bupivacaine displayed a significant increase in the macrophage number on day 3 (+63% versus +27% for ropivacaine). The transforming growth factor β‐1 expression had a significant increase in the LA (versus saline) groups, +63% in ropivacaine group and +115% in bupivacaine group on day 3 (P < 0·05). The collagen fibres as measured by dyed area were significantly higher in the bupivacaine group on day 3 (+56%, P < 0·01 versus +15% for ropivacaine). CD34 was reduced in bupivacaine group (−51%, P < 0·05 versus +3% for ropivacaine). On day 14, no statistical differences were observed in either LA group (versus saline) with respect to histopathologic or inflammatory mediators. MT on day 14 showed no differences between the LA and saline groups. The LA‐induced increases in histological markers did not extend beyond the third day, suggesting that wound infiltration with long‐acting LA does not impair the wound healing process in rats.
Photovoice Evaluated: An Appropriate Visual Methodology for Aboriginal Water Resource Research
Authors: MACLEAN KIRSTEN , WOODWARD EMMA
Published: October 2012

Methodologies in human geography are rapidly evolving to include participatory approaches that incorporate other voices and knowledges. Central to these participatory methodologies is the co‐evolution of research objectives, the co‐production of knowledge, joint learning, and capacity building of all those involved. Visual methodologies that use the media of photography are gaining recognition as powerful participatory methods. In this paper, we evaluate whether photovoice is a culturally appropriate and engaging visual methodology, and consider how it can be improved to better facilitate research between non‐Aboriginal researchers and Aboriginal Australians involved in water resource management. We draw from two photovoice projects conducted in partnership with two separate Aboriginal groups in northern Australia. Photovoice methodology in this context was found to be both culturally appropriate and engaging. It facilitated genuine participatory research, empowered participants, and was easily adapted to the field situation. The methodology proved to be a powerful tool that revealed in‐depth information including Aboriginal values, knowledge, concerns, and aspirations for water resource management that may not have been captured through other participatory approaches. Photovoice methodology could be enhanced with a more defined role for the researcher as knowledge broker and as translator and communicator of research outcomes (as deemed appropriate by research participants) to policy makers.
Identification of Microbiota Present on the Surface of Taleggio Cheese Using PCR–DGGE and RAPD–PCR
Authors: Feligini Maria , Panelli Simona , Buffoni Joanna Natalia , Bonacina Cesare , Andrighetto Christian , Lombardi Angiolella
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  Microbial DNA from 9 batches of Taleggio PDO cheese sampled at various times during ripening, brines, swabs of wooden shelves used for cheese dry‐salting, and 13 commercial cheeses were analyzed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR‐DGGE) and/or random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD‐PCR). Sequencing allowed the detection of 12 genera, 27 species, and 2 unclassified bacteria. Molecular analysis allowed for the detection of microorganisms not previously associated with Taleggio such as Lactobacillus paracasei, Carnobacterium maltaromaticum, Bacillus licheniformis, Corynebacterium variabile, Psychrobacter cibarius, and Staphylococcus carnosus. For the first time Massilia spp. was detected in a dairy ecosystem.

Practical Application:  Indigenous species and strains of bacteria identified by this study could be used for the selection of dairy cultures to be employed routinely by manufacturers to control the Taleggio cheese production. The new cultures may give the bases for driving dairy processes and, consequently, control the typical flavor resulting from metabolic actions of environmental microorganisms.
Effects of High‐Pressure Processing on Inactivation of Salmonella Typhimurium, Eating Quality, and Microstructure of Raw Chicken Breast Fillets
Authors: Tananuwong Kanitha , Chitsakun Thadchanon , Tattiyakul Jirarat
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  High‐pressure inactivation of Salmonella Typhimurium DMST 28913, eating quality, and microstructure of pressurized raw chicken breast meat was determined. The inoculated samples (approximately 7 log CFU/g initial load) were processed at 300 and 400 MPa, using pressurized medium of 25 to 35 °C during pressurization. Weibull model was well fitted to the survival curves with tailing. Least severe conditions with acceptable inactivation levels were 300 MPa, 35 °C, 1 min (approximately 2 log reduction) and 400 MPa, 30 °C, 1 min (approximately 4 log reduction). Based on these 2 conditions, the 400 MPa treatment yielded the raw chicken meat with higher L* value, greater cooking loss, and lower water holding capacity. Cooked chicken breast meat prepared from the pressurized samples had firmer texture than the control. Scanning electron microscopic images showed that higher pressure resulted in increasing extent of protein coagulation and the contraction of the muscle bundles.

Practical Application:  For raw chicken breast fillet, 300 MPa, 35 °C, 1 min was the condition that reasonably reduced the load of Salmonella Typhimurium. However, the pressurized samples had greater cooking loss. Marination with brine containing sodium chloride and phosphate prior to pressurization might help improve this eating quality.
Using a Political Economy and Life Course Approach to Understand Gendered Pension Provision in the UK
Authors: Foster Liam
Published: October 2012

The future sustainability of pensions has gained considerable international attention over recent years. These concerns have been fuelled by increasing longevity and rising pension deficits. In addition there has been further awareness of the extent of female pensioner poverty. In order to explore this situation a suitable analytical framework is required. As pensions received in retirement are dependent on earlier events in individuals’ lives, most notably their employment history, this paper explores the need for a life course approach to examine the gendered nature of pensions in the UK. Initially the life course approach, a key mode of analysis in political economy theory, is defined. It is then used to examine the notion of the changing ‘institution’ of retirement and its subsequent de‐standardisation. Then, linked to the political economy approach, it is utilised to introduce ways in which employment experiences of men and women impact upon inequalities in retirement. Finally, the article concludes that by employing such an approach to understanding pensions it enables a better appreciation of savings behaviour and opportunities.
The effects of professional oral health care on patients in the subacute stage of emergent neurosurgical disorders
Authors: Mori Chisato , Hakuta Chiyoko , Endo Keiko , Nariai Tadashi , Ueno Masayuki , Shinada Kayoko , Kawaguchi Yoko
Published: October 2012

This study evaluated the effectiveness of professional oral health care (POHC) on patients who were in the subacute stage of neurosurgical disorders. Forty subjects (26 male, 14 female) with acute cerebrovascular disorders or neurotrauma were randomly divided into two groups. The intervention group (n = 21) received POHC treatment by dental hygienists, and the control group (n = 19) did not. To evaluate the change in oral health status of the subjects, an oral examination was carried out at baseline and four weeks later. For the subjects in the intervention group, periodontal condition, oral hygiene status, and oral function improved statistically significantly. The detection rate for methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was statistically significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group. These results suggest that POHC performed by dental hygienists in collaboration with nurses plays an important role in the promotion not only of oral health but also of general health.
Improving dental visits for individuals with autism spectrum disorders through an understanding of sensory processing
Authors: Kuhaneck Heather Miller , Chisholm Elizabeth Cipes
Published: October 2012

The increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) suggests that dental practices will be seeing patients with this diagnosis more frequently. Although patients with ASD have similar dental needs to other patients, the symptoms of the disorder may influence the ability of dental practitioners to provide necessary care. Dental professionals may be unaware of the difficulties with sensory processing common to patients with ASD. However, awareness of sensory processing issues and knowledge of strategies to improve the sensory experience for individuals with ASD may improve dental visits for these patients and allow for enhanced dental care provision.
Minimally invasive and simultaneous removal of herniated intracanal and extracanal lumbar nucleus pulposus with a percutaneous spinal endoscope
Authors: Kitagawa Yasuhiro , Sairyo Koichi , Shibuya Isao , Kitahama Yoshihiro , Kanamori Yasuo , Koga Soichi , Matsumoto Hironori , Sumita Takayuki , Yamada Atsuhisa , Dezawa Akira
Published: October 2012

Herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) in the lumbar spine is usually found in the neural canal (in the intracanal space) and occasionally in the extracanal space, where it is known as a lateral HNP. HNP is rarely found simultaneously in both spaces. However, we experienced such a case in a 48‐year‐old man who presented with right leg pain and lower back pain that had lasted for more than a year. MRI revealed HNP in both the right intracanal and extracanal spaces at L2‐L3. A transforaminal approach was used to complete a percutaneous endoscopic discectomy. An 8‐mm incision was made with the patient under local anesthesia, and the percutaneous endoscope was inserted at the affected disc space. First, the HNP fragments in the intracanal space were removed, and then the cannula and endoscope were extracted to the extracanal space where the extracanal fragments were removed. Two hours after the surgery, the patient stood and walked. Right leg pain and lower back pain had disappeared. Unlike other techniques such as Love's procedure and the microendoscopic discectomy technique, the use of a transforaminal approach with the percutaneous endoscopic technique enables the HNP fragments in the intracanal and extracanal spaces to be removed at the same time with a single approach.
Single‐incision laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with or without splenic preservation: How we do it
Authors: Misawa Takeyuki , Ito Ryusuke , Futagawa Yasuro , Fujiwara Yuki , Kitamura Hiroaki , Tsutsui Nobuhiro , Shiba Hiroaki , Wakiyama Shigeki , Ishida Yuichi , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Recent interest in improving cosmetic outcomes has led to single‐incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) being performed in a variety of organs. However, this innovative technique has rarely been introduced in pancreatic surgery, as it is considered to be a challenging procedure. We report herein our technique of single‐incision laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with or without splenic preservation.

Materials and Surgical Technique

A 2.5‐cm intraumbilical mini‐laparotomy was made for the placement of a SILS Port as a single access site. The overall procedures were similar to those performed in the standard laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with multiple trocars. To obtain better exposure of the operative field, we made technical refinements by employing gastric suspension with sutures, the tug‐exposure technique, a balloon retractor, and gravity by changing the patient's position. The pancreas was transected with a linear stapler, and the specimen was extracted through the umbilical wound.

Discussion

Patients were discharged without any complications. The umbilical wounds were almost invisible 1 month after surgery. We believe that SILS, with some technical refinements, can be safely applied for distal pancreatectomy. Although the cosmetic benefits of single‐incision laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy are obvious, several issues such as the extent of invasiveness, cost, indications, and learning curve need to be investigated.
Mood, Anxiety, and Substance‐Use Disorders and Suicide Risk in a Military Population Cohort
Authors: Conner Kenneth R. , McCarthy Michael D. , Bajorska Alina , Caine Eric D. , Tu Xin M. , Knox Kerry L.
Published: October 2012

There are meager prospective data from nonclinical samples on the link between anxiety disorders and suicide or the extent to which the association varies over time. We examined these issues in a cohort of 309,861 U.S. Air Force service members, with 227 suicides over follow‐up. Mental disorder diagnoses including anxiety, mood, and substance‐use disorders (SUD) were based on treatment encounters. Risk for suicide associated with anxiety disorders were lower compared with mood disorders and similar to SUD. Moreover, the associations between mood and anxiety disorders with suicide were greatest within a year of treatment presentation.
Highly siderophile element and osmium isotope evidence for postcore formation magmatic and impact processes on the aubrite parent body
Authors: van ACKEN David , BRANDON Alan D. , LAPEN Thomas J.
Published: October 2012

Abstract– Aubrites exhibit a wide range of highly siderophile element (HSE—Re, Os, Ir, Ru, Rh, Pt, Pd, Au) concentrations and 187Os/188Os compositions. Their HSE concentrations are one to three orders of magnitude less than chondrites, with the exception of the Shallowater and Mt. Egerton samples. While most aubrites show chondritic HSE abundance ratios, significant enrichments of Pd and Re relative to Os, Ir, and Ru are observed in 12 of 16 samples. Present‐day 187Os/188Os ratios range from subchondritic values of 0.1174 to superchondritic values of up to 0.2263. Half of the samples have 187Os/188Os ratios of 0.127 to 0.130, which is in the range of enstatite chondrites. Along with the brecciated nature of aubrites, the HSE and Re‐Os isotope systematics support a history of extensive postaccretion processing, including core formation, late addition of chondritic material and/or core material and potential breakup and reassembly. Highly siderophile element signatures for some aubrites are consistent with a mixing of HSE‐rich chondritic fragments with a HSE‐free aubrite matrix. The enrichments in incompatible HSE such as Pd and Re observed in some aubrites, reminiscent of terrestrial basalts, suggest an extensive magmatic and impact history, which is supported by both the 187Re‐187Os isotope system and silicate‐hosted isotope systems (Rb‐Sr, K‐Ar) yielding young formation ages of 1.3–3.9 Ga for a subset of samples. Compared with other differentiated achondrites derived from small planetary bodies, aubrites show a wide range in HSE concentrations and 187Os/188Os, most similar to angrites. While similarities exist between the diverse groups of achondrites formed early in solar system history, the aubrite parent body(ies) clearly underwent a distinct evolution, different from angrites, brachinites, ureilites, howardites, eucrites, and diogenites.
Trace element depth profiles in presolar silicon carbide grains
Authors: KING Ashley J. , HENKEL Torsten , ROST Detlef , LYON Ian C.
Published: October 2012

Abstract– We have analyzed eleven presolar SiC grains from the Murchison meteorite using time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. The Si isotopic compositions of the grains indicate that they are probably of an AGB star origin. The average abundances of Mg, Fe, Ca, Al, Ti, and V are strongly influenced by their condensation behavior into SiC in circumstellar environments. Depth profiles of Li, B, Mg, Al, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, and Fe in the SiC grains show that trace elements are not always homogenously distributed. In approximately half of the SiC grains studied here, the trace element distributions can be explained by condensation processes around the grains’ parent stars. These grains appear to have experienced only minimal processing before their arrival in the presolar molecular cloud, possibly due to short residence times in the interstellar medium. The remaining SiC grains contained elevated abundances of several elements within their outer 200 nm, which is attributed to the implantation of energetic ions accelerated by shockwaves in the interstellar medium. These grains may have spent a longer period of time in this region, hence increasing the probability of them passing through a shockfront. Distinct groups of presolar SiC grains whose residence times in the interstellar medium differ are consistent with previous findings based on noble gas studies, although some grains may also have been shielded from secondary alteration by protective outer mantles.
Magnetic resonance imaging of a solid, multilobular ameloblastoma in the mandible of a pony
Authors: Koch E. , Ryan C. , Leitch M. , Del Piero F. , Boyle A.
Published: October 2012

See also Clinical Commentary by Holmes
Exploiting liars' verbal strategies by examining the verifiability of details
Authors: Nahari Galit , Vrij Aldert , Fisher Ronald P.
Published: October 2012

Background

We examined the hypothesis that liars will report their activities strategically and will, if possible, avoid mentioning details that can be verified by the investigator.

Method

A total of 38 participants wrote a statement in which they told the truth or lied about their activities during a recent 30‐minute period. Two coders counted the frequency of occurrence of details that can be verified and that cannot be verified.

Results

Liars, compared with truth tellers, included fewer details that can be verified and an equal number of details that cannot be verified in their statement, and the ratio between verifiable and unverifiable details was smaller in liars compared with truth tellers. High percentages of truth tellers and liars were classified correctly based on the frequency counting of verifiable details (79%) or the ratio between verifiable and unverifiable details (71%). Those percentages were higher than the percentage that could be classified correctly (63%) based on verifiable and unverifiable detail combined. We compared our verifiability approach with other theoretical approaches as to why differences in detail between truth tellers and liars emerge.
Tuning Hydrophobicity with Honeycomb Surface Structure and Hydrophilicity with CF4 Plasma Etching for Aerosol‐Deposited Titania Films
Authors: Kim Do‐Yeon , Park Jung‐Jae , Lee Jong‐Gun , Lee Min‐Wook , Kim Ho‐Young , Oh Joon‐Ho , Seong Tae‐Yeon , Kim Donghwan , James Scott C. , van Hest Maikel F. A. M. , Chandra Sanjeev , Yoon Sam S.
Published: October 2012

A tunable surface that promotes either hydrophobic or hydrophilic behavior of TiO2 films is produced with aerosol deposition. This process is capable of mass production by high‐speed coating at room temperature without any wet chemicals, and therefore the process has the potential to be economically viable, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly. Functional TiO2 films between 1 and 18 μm thick are produced by directly depositing dry, 1‐μm TiO2 powders accelerated through a supersonic nozzle. Tunable film morphology due to a rough honeycomb surface structure yields variable water contact angles. When plasma treated with CF4, the films exhibit superhydrophilicity despite the rough honeycomb surface structure. Superhydrophilicity is due to the incorporation of fluorine in the film as shown using XPS.
CsCl Modified Ge–Ga–S Glasses Codoped with Eu2+ and Mn2+: A Potential Yellow Phosphor for Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: Yan Qiqi , Ren Jing , Chen Guorong
Published: October 2012

Notably enhanced Mn2+ yellow emission is observed in CsCl modified and Eu2+/Mn2+ codoped Ge–Ga–S glasses under near‐ultraviolet (NUV) excitation. The plausible efficiency of energy transfer (ET) from Eu2+ to Mn2+ is as high as 91%, which is obtained by measurement of luminescence decay of Eu2+ in samples doped with and without Mn2+. The Eu2+/Mn2+ codoping significantly increases the excitation cross section at the NUV region, which is at heart of the enhanced Mn2+ yellow emission. The ET processes responsible for the enhanced luminescence are discussed.
Historical fire and bamboo dynamics in western Amazonia
Authors: McMichael Crystal H. , Bush Mark B. , Silman Miles R. , Piperno Dolores R. , Raczka Marco , Lobato Luiz C. , Zimmerman Monica , Hagen Stephen , Palace Michael
Published: October 2012

Aim

To determine if recurrent fire accounts for bamboo‐dominated forests that cover about 180,000 km2 of western Amazonia.

Location

Western Amazonia, including Los Amigos and Cocha Cashu, Peru, and Acre, Brazil.

Methods

We identified bamboo (B+) and closed‐canopy forests (B−) using a combination of MODIS imagery, Landsat TM imagery and field surveys. Local‐scale and landscape‐scale patterns of historical bamboo dynamics were analysed by collecting soil cores from B+ and B− sites across three regions. Soil charcoal within cores was used to document previous fire, and phytoliths were employed to reconstruct vegetational patterns through time.

Results

Fire occurred in B+ and B− sites with approximately equal frequencies in each region sampled. Between regions, fire signals were most prevalent at Los Amigos, with Cocha Cashu and Acre sites typically containing only trace amounts of charcoal. Vegetational state remained constant through time in both B+ and B− forests of Cocha Cashu and Acre. The persistence of bamboo through time is less clear at Los Amigos, with bamboo presence changing both spatially and temporally.

Main conclusions

Fire does not appear to be the driving mechanism behind current bamboo distributions, although it may facilitate bamboo invasion. Once established in an area, bamboo persistently dominates the vegetation structure over historical time‐scales at some sites (Cocha Cashu and Acre), but not at others (Los Amigos), which is likely to be a function of patch origin. Increasing human activity, including fire and deforestation, combined with predicted Amazonian drought, may allow bamboo to expand from its current distribution and replace typical Amazonian closed‐canopy forests. These structural changes in the forests have important implications for carbon storage, as Amazonian forests are currently the largest terrestrial carbon sink in the world.