bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on Domestic Dates. III. Effect of Temperature on Some Chemical Changes Associated with Deterioration a,b
Authors: MAIER V. P. , SCHILLER FRANK H.
Published: August 2006

The rates of various reactions associated with deterioration of whole dates such as darkening, pH decrease, sucrose hydrolysis, and oxygen and carbon dioxide gas exchange were studied at 28.4, 38.0, and 49.0°C and their apparent activation energies calculated. Also, changes in the activities of phenolase and peroxidase were followed in dates stored at 38.0°C. It was shown that dates darken by both oxidative and nonoxidative browning pathways, which respectively have apparent activation energies of 23.4 and 34.5 kcal/mole. Demonstration of enzymic browning in ground date tissue suggested that oxidative browning of whole dates is enzyme‐catalyzed. Oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide production gave respective apparent activation energies of 17.6 and 25.3 kcal/mole in unheated dates, and 19.0 and 27.4 kcal/mole in heated dates, indicating the existence of enzymic and non‐enzymic sources. The nonenzymic nonoxidative decrease in pH and invertase‐catalyzed sucrose hydrolysis had apparent activation energies of 22.8 and 26.0 kcal/mole, respectively. Apparent phenolase activity increased during storage of dates, whereas apparent peroxidase activity decreased.
Effect of Some Proteins on the Binding Quality of an Experimental Sausagea
Authors: FUKAZAWA TOSHIYUKI , HASHIMOTO YOSHIO , YASUI TSUTOMU
Published: August 2006

Muscle materials were prepared that answered the requirements of the present experiments, as judged by results on the quantities of extracted protein estimated by chemical analysis and the appearance of structure observed by electron microscope. Nevertheless, in the results obtained from the determination of ATPase activity and from superprecipitation, it was clear that the protein involved had not been completely removed from the fibrils. Water‐soluble protein did not appreciably affect the binding quality of sausage. There was a shade of differences between the binding quality of sausage made from intact fibrils, and that of sausage made from actin‐ and tropomyosin‐poor fibrils. In the experimental sausages, binding quality was low when myosin‐poor fibrils were used, and was negligible when “ghost” fibrils were used.
Fatty Acid Composition of Meat Tissue Lipids
Authors: HORNSTEIN I. , CROWE P. F. , HEIMBERG M. J.
Published: August 2006

The lipids extracted from beef and pork muscle were fractionated into triglycerides, cephalins, and a mixture of lecithins and sphingomyelins. The fatty acid composition of these fractions was determined, and the possible effect of phospolipids on meat flavor was evaluated.
Influence of Irradiated Bacon Lipids on Body Growth, Incidence of Cancer, and Other Pathologic Changes in Micea
Authors: DIXON MARGARET S. , MOYER DEAN L. , ZELDIS LOUIS J. , McKEE RALPH W.
Published: August 2006

Uncured bacon, irradiated with 5.58 megarads of gamma rays was compared with similar uncured unirradiated bacon by feeding to 757 mice. There were no major differences between the control and experimental groups. No gross or histopathological lesions attributable to irradiation of the lipid were observed. The incidence of spontaneous cancers showed no significant differences among the diet groups and indicates that irradiation of the bacon did not produce carcinogens or growth‐altering substances demonstrable under the conditions of these experiments.
Bacteriological and Serological Studies of Organisms of the Arizona Group Associated with a Food‐Borne Outbreak of Gastroenteritisa
Authors: VERDER ELIZABETH
Published: August 2006

The biochemical and antigenic characteristics of a strain of the Arizona group (1, 2:1, 2, 5) that appears to have been responsible for the illness of 51 nurses in a food‐borne outbreak of severe gastroenteritis in an Institution in Washington are described. A custard prepared from fresh, unbroken eggs, was probably the vehicle of the infecting organism. The agglutination reactions of the blood serum of exposed individuals with antigens of several Entero‐bacteriaceae, including the Arizona strain isolated during the outbreak, are recounted.
French‐fried Potatoes: Palatability as Related to Microscopic Structure of Frozen Par‐fries
Authors: SPIRUTA SHIRLEY LYMAN , MACKEY ANDREA
Published: August 2006

When tissue was taken from finish‐fried or par‐fried potatoes not subjected to fixing or embedding, potato cells were found to be plump, and the surfaces were comparatively smooth, faintly showing the outlines of the gelatinized starch granules within. Cells from tissue that had been frozen showed reticulation, especially those from tissue frozen at ‐18°C as contrasted with tissue frozen at ‐78°C. When tissue was observed during freezing, cell separation was pronounced, as well as pushing together or shrinking of gelled starch granules, and cell distortion. When thawed, the potato cells partially recovered their original plumpness although breaks between the cells remained. Recovery of gelation was incomplete in starch granules from cells from potato tissue that had been par‐fried, frozen, and finish‐fried. A taste‐test panel preferred French‐fried potatoes frozen as an intermediate step in preparation, especially noting less cohesiveness of texture and greater tenderness of crust.
Influence of Autoclaving Soybean Proteins on Liberation of Aspartic and Glutamic Acids and Lysine by Several Digestion Proceduresa
Authors: EVANS ROBERT JOHN , BANDEMER SELMA L. , BAUER DORIS H.
Published: August 2006

Part of the lysine was destroyed when soybean meal or isolated soybean protein mixed with sucrose was autoclaved 4 hr at 121°C. Little or no loss occurred when isolated proteins were autoclaved by themselves.

In vitro digestion with trypsin and erepsin liberated less lysine from the autoclaved than from the unheated soybean proteins if they did not contain the trypsin inhibitor.

Partial hydrolysis with hydrochloric acid liberated more aspartie and glutamic acids and lysine from unheated than from heated soybean proteins.

Hydrolysis with concentrated hydrochloric acid for 7 days at 40°C and in vitro digestion with trypsin and erepsin liberated similar amounts of lysine (except for the proteins containing trypsin inhibitors), but acid hydrolysis liberated more aspartic and glutamic acids that did enzymatic hydrolysis.

The data support the hypothesis that autoclaving soybean protein formed lysine‐aspartic acid and lysine‐glutamic acid linkages that were resistant to mild hydrolysis.
Kinetic Studies on the Heat Inactivation of Peroxidase in Sweet Corna
Authors: YAMAMOTO H. Y. , STEINBERG M. P. , NELSON A. I.
Published: August 2006

A kinetic procedure employing D values was used instead of the usual end‐point method to study heat inactivation of peroxidase in whole‐kernel sweet corn. Results at 150–200°F indicated that a heat‐labile fraction and a heat‐stable fraction were being inactivated. The resistant fraction represented 5% of total enzyme activity, and was concentrated in the pericarp. Increasing the blanch time at 200°F from 2 to 5 min decreased residual enzyme activity from 3.3% to 1.7%.

Inactivation of the heat‐resistant fraction at 210–290°F also followed a first‐order reaction. The phantom inactivation‐time curve showed that an HTST process based on microbial destruction could leave residual enzyme activity.
The Carotenoids of Meyer Lemons
Authors: CURL A. LAURENCE
Published: August 2006

The carotenoids have been examined in the peel and pulp (the edible portion) of Meyer lemons. The principal carotenoid in the pulp was cryptoxanthin. The peel carotenoids included a number of unusual substances, including cryptoxanthin mono‐ and diepoxides and fractions tentatively identified as hydroxy derivatives of phytoene, phytofluene, and zeta‐carotene. An unusual polyene was also found. Apparently it contains two allylic hydroxyl groups, one of which is allylic to the conjugated double bond system.
Automatic Recording of Vibrational Properties of Foodstuffs
Authors: DRAKE BIRGER
Published: August 2006

An apparatus is described for automatic recording of mechanical resonance curves for test specimens of foodstuffs with the approximate size of 6 × 12 × 50 mm. The simple evaluation procedure described gives information on the modulus of elasticity (divided by the density) and degree of mechanical damping.
Effect of Radiation Environment on the Thermal Resistance of Irradiated Spores of Clostridium Sporogenes P.A. 3679
Authors: LICCIARDELLO J. J. , NICKERSON J. T. R.
Published: August 2006

The thermal resistance at 100°C of Clostridiun sporogenes P.A. 3679 was determined after the spores had been irradiated with gamma rays or cathode rays under various environmental conditions.

The pre‐irradiation treatment sensitized the spores to heat, and spores irradiated either in air or under vacuum were heat‐sensitized to the same extent. The heat sensitization induced was slightly greater when the spores were irradiated at a pH near neutrality, than at an acid pH. Spores suspended in phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) were heat‐sensitized to a greater degree than spores suspended in nutrient broth or pureed ham. The thermal resistance of the irradiated spores was not influenced by the concentration of viable spores in the suspension (phosphate buffer), but as the proportion of dead cells and dead spores increased with increasing doses of irradiation, the thermal resistance also increased.

Spores irradiated with 660,000 rep at 66–68°C were more heat‐sensitive than spores irradiated at room temperature or in the frozen state. Below this irradiation level this effect was not evident.
Protein‐Bound Sodium and Potassium in Some Grains
Authors: ROYCHOWDHURY S. P.
Published: August 2006

Eight grain species were examined for sodium and potassium contents in protein and non‐protein fractions before and after soaking. Most of sodium is protein bound, and potassium appears less strongly bound. Soaking does not seem to change these constituents in two fractions. Hardly any salt appears to leach out in soaking.
Inositol and Free Sugars in Chicken Muscle Post‐Mortem
Authors: LILYBLADE A. L. , PETERSON D. W.
Published: August 2006

Chicken muscle was analyzed for free sugars using separations by paper chromatography. Inositol, glucose, sedoheptulose, mannose, fructose, rihose, and rihulose were identified. Two other unknown compounds appeared to he arabinose and xylose. Five minor components detected were not identified.

The principal free sugars present in chicken muscle immediately postmortem were glucose and fructose. Ribose occurred only in trace amounts. During a 6‐day storage period at ice temperature, glucose levels increased in white muscle from 13‐week‐old pullets and also in both red and white muscle from old hens, but decreased in red muscle from pullets. Red muscle contained more than twice as much free iuositol as white muscle. Inositol, fructose, and ribose increased during storage in the two kinds of muscle in both older and younger birds.
Application of Activation Analysis to the Determination of Trace‐Element Concentrations in Meata
Authors: KOCH R. C. , ROESMER J.
Published: August 2006

The concentrations of 27 trace elements were determined in four meats: beef, pork, ham, and chicken. Because the concentrations of most of these elements were expected to be very small, the extremely sensitive method of neutron activation analysis was used in this study. Qualitative analyses were performed for 8 of the elements, and the concentrations of 19 elements were determined quantitatively. The quantitatively measured concentrations varied from ∼0.1% for phosphorus to ∼10−5 ppm for cerium. Most data are estimated to be accurate to ±10%. The results demonstrate the applicability of this analytical method to determination of the inorganic constituents in foods and related substances at a constant level of accuracy throughout the concentration ranges of practical interest.
Variety and Location Effects on Ascorbic Acid in Potatoesa
Authors: HYDE R. B.
Published: August 2006

The data from analyses of six potato varieties grown at nine widely different locations over two years showed that varietal comparisons for ascorbic acid content are relatively unaffected by location. Thus, in ascertaining the potential value of potato varieties as a source of ascorbic acid, widespread testing appears to offer no advantage over the determination of varietal differences for this factor in a more confined area.
Repeatability Estimates in Sensory‐Panel Selection
Authors: SAWYER F. M. , STONE H. , ABPLANALP H. , STEWART G. F.
Published: August 2006

Repeatability estimates applied to panel selection enable the experimenter to predict the proportion of judges whose sensitivity can satisfy established specifications. Repeatability estimates of different test designs indicated paired comparison to be more sensitive than the 3‐sample binomial design. Studies on sessions of extended length indicate that protracted testing may provide a more reliable basis of panel selection than short‐period testing does.
All‐Vegetable Protein Mixtures for Human Feeding
Authors: BRESSANI RICARDO , VALIENTE ANA TERESA
Published: August 2006

Studies were carried out to determine the best combination of rice and cooked black beans when one partially replaced the other isonitrogenously. Experiments with young and with adult protein‐depleted rats indicate that the best combination was one in which about 60% of the protein of the diet is from rice and 40% from black beans. The range of values was from 70 to 50% rice and from 30 to 50% cooked black beans. The median figures correspond to 80 g of rice and 20 g of beans. On an isoproteic basis, rice protein is superior to black bean protein, and supplementation of either protein source with known limiting amino acids improved the protein value. Cooked black beans supplemented with methionine and valine still did not induce as good growth as rice supplemented with lysine and threonine. When rice‐black bean diets containing 50% protein from each source were supplemented stepwise with the limiting amino acids methionine, lysine, and leucine, the growth and feed and protein efficiencies of the rats improved; serum protein and liver fat tended to increase.
Infrared Spectra of Some Pectic Substancesa
Authors: REINTJES MARTEN , MUSCO DAMIAN D. , JOSEPH GLENN H.
Published: August 2006

Infrared spectra for a number of commercial types of pectic substances were determined with a film technique used elsewhere on gums and pectin. It is possible to distinguish between pectins with high methoxyl and with low methoxyl and polygalacturonic acid. Although the spectrum for the only apple pectin examined differed in some respects, particularly at longer wavelengths, from citrus peetin spectra, additional samples should be examined with higher resolution before conclusions are made about fruit sources. Results now reported should be of use in general qualitative identification of pectic substances. Improvements in equipment and techniques are suggested.
The Monoterpene Hydrocarbon Composition of Some Essential Oils
Authors: IKEDA ROBERT M. , STANLEY WILLIAM L. , VANNIER SADIE H. , SPITLER ELIZABETH M.
Published: August 2006

The monoterpene hydrocarbon composition of 29 non‐citrus essential oils was determined with silicic acid chromatostrips and gas‐liquid chromatography. Data arc presented showing the total monoterpene hydrocarbon content and the relative proportions of 19 of these compounds in each oil.
Studies on the Composition of Egg Lipida
Authors: PRIVETT O. S. , BLANK M. L. , SCHMIT J. A.
Published: August 2006

Studies were carried out on the fractionation and analysis of egg lipid by several new techniques employing thin‐layer chromatography. The fatty acid composition of the major lipid classes and subfractions thereof was determined by a combination of alkali‐isomerization and gas‐liquid chromatography. The positional arrangements of the fatty acids in the glycerides and lecithin fraction were determined. The fatty acids in lecithin were distributed mainly in one type, the α‐saturated β‐unsaturated type, in contrast to the fatty acids of triglycerides.
Tenderness of Beef.
Authors: COVER SYLVIA , HOSTETLER ROBERT L. , RITCHEY S. J.
Published: August 2006

Shear‐force values were markedly and significantly higher at meat temperatures of 80°C (well‐done) than at 61 °C (rare) in longissimus dorsi (LD) steaks, but only slightly higher in biceps femoris (BF) steaks from 180 animals. Neither muscle showed significant differences between shear‐force values at 80 and 100°C. The two muscles had similar shear‐force values at 61 °C, although the connective tissue scored much tougher in BF than in LD steaks. Correlations were low between shear‐force values and panel scores for tenderness of connective tissue. The highest coefficients between shear‐force values and panel scores were in LD cooked to 80 and 100°C—for softness to. tooth pressure, ease of fragmentation, and adhesion. These indicate that low scores (tough meat) were associated with high shear‐force values. Correlations for all possible combinations of shear‐force values for the two muscles and the three conditions of cooking were made. Within LD all coefficients were significant and high, which indicated that ranking of the animals for shear‐force value was similar at all temperatures within this muscle. Within BF the only high coefficient was for 80 vs. 100°C. Those involving the two muscles together were not high and not always significant. Thus, shear‐force values of one muscle would not be satisfactory for indicating the tenderness of another muscle in the same carcass. Variation was found among the various core positions within a steak.

Extensibility of muscle fibers was greater at 100 than at 61 °C. This was significant in LD but frequently not significant among the lots in BF. Extensibility was rather closely related to shear‐force values at both temperatures in LD, but only at 100°C in BF. Availability of muscle fibers long enough for these determinations (5 mm) varied widely in BF. This availability in the BF steaks cooked to 100°C appeared to be related to scores for mealiness.
Amino Acids in Fermented Bread Doughsa
Authors: HORVAT ROBERT J. , NG HAWKINS , PENCE JAMES
Published: August 2006

Nineteen free amino acids were identified and quantified in the dialyzable fraction from fermented bread doughs ready for baking. Amino acids account for the majority of the dialyzable nonvolatile amino compounds in this fraction. Nine of the amino acids found in bread doughs were also identified in a preferment brew. peptides did not appear in the dialyzable extracts, and are assumed to be absent, or present in very low concentrations, in the doughs. Most of the amino nitrogen of fermented doughs remains in the nondialyzable fraction. The amino acid fraction, soluble‐protein fraction, and volatile nitrogen compounds, measured as ammonia, make minor contributions to the total amino content of bread doughs.
Kinetics and Energetics of Thermal Inactivation and the Regeneration Rates of a Peroxidase Systema,b
Authors: JOFFE FREDERICK M. , BALL C. OLIN
Published: August 2006

The kinetics of thermal inactivation of peroxidase were found to he first‐order for the range of temperatures 85–100°C. The experimental activation energy was 25.1 kilocalories per mole; free energy change, 27.0–27.5 kilocalories per mole; and entropy change, a negative 7.39–7.89 calories per mole degree. This indicated that the transfer of energy was extremely slow or the activated molecule was actually more rigid than the native molecule, the latter being more likely than the former. No regeneration occurred when peroxidase had been completely inactivated.

Regeneration was found to involve a lag period of approximately 20 hr, a rapid rate period of l‐2 days, a point of maximum regeneration at 2–10 days, and finally a decrease in activity after inactivation.

The thermal destruction time (z value) of 49.8°F indicated that in high‐temperature short‐time processes the criterion for sufficiency might necessarily be based on the time required to inactivate peroxidase rather than on the time required to sterilize the product.
Changes in Carbohydrate and Phosphorus Content of Potato Tubers during Storage in Nitrogen
Authors: SAMOTUS BOGUSLAW , SCHWIMMER SIGMUND
Published: August 2006

When potatoes are stored in nitrogen at low temperatures, starch decomposition, release of starch‐bound phosphorus, and accumulation of inorganic phosphorus are less than during storage in air. Although there is a complete suppression of sugar accumulation, evidence is presented that the starch removed appears as substances, probably end‐products of anaerobic glycolysis, that are volatile at the temperatures used to determine percent dry weight. The decreases in starch‐bound phosphorus are balanced by a corresponding increase in inorganic phosphorus in both air‐stored and nitrogen‐stored potatoes. The decrease in the phytic acid phosphorus in air‐stored tubers can be accounted for largely as an increase in the fraction containing phosphoproteins, nucleic acids, and phospholipids, whereas the corresponding loss of phytic acid phosphorus in nitrogen‐stored tubers appears largely in the fraction containing nucleotide coenzymes and hexose phosphates. The significance of these findings is discussed in terms of the requirements for high‐energy phosphate derived from the respiratory process and needed for biosynthesis.
The Chemical Composition of Maple Sugar Sanda
Authors: DAVIS D. ROBERT , GALLANDER JAMES F. , HACSKAYLO JOHN , GOULD W. A. , WILLITS C. O.
Published: August 2006

The gritty material obtained by filtering commercial maple sirup was analyzed to determine its composition and to relate its composition to the amount of sugar sand deposited to determine the factors responsible for the formation of sugar sand. The samples, taken over a two‐year period, contained calcium, malic acid, and undetermined material (probably silica) as the major constituents. The calcium, malic acid, and calcium malate content gave highly significant positive correlations with the amount of sugar sand formed, whereas the percentage of undetermined material gave a negative correlation. There was also evidence that the malic acid content was more critical in the formation of sugar sand than the calcium content. Highly significant negative correlations were obtained between the percent sugar sand deposited and the iron, copper, and boron content. Further, these constituents also gave highly significant negative correlations when compared with the calcium content of the sugar sand. The presence of potassium, magnesium, and molybdenum appeared to have little effect on the formation of sugar sand. The nonvolatile organic acids present in sugar sand were determined by paper chromatography. Results showed that sugar sand contains malic, citric, succinic, fumaric, and three unidentified organic acids.
Effect of Freezing on Autoxidation of Oxymyoglobin Solutionsa
Authors: BROWN W. DUANE , DOLEV AMI
Published: August 2006

Rates of oxidation of solutions of highly purified and “crude” tuna and beef oxymyoglobins were measured at 0, −5, −10, −15, and −18°C. The results show that the oxidation rate decreases with lower temperatures until solutions actually solidify; at that time the autoxidation rate increases sharply. There are variations in rates of oxidation between tuna and beef myoglohins, as well as between myoglobin solutions at different buffer concentrations; however, these are secondary to the changes noted due to freezing.
Nuclear HBcAg and histology activity index as independent predictors of the expression of singly spliced HBV‐RNA
Authors: Sheen I.‐S. , Tsou Y.‐K. , Lin S.‐M. , Lin C.‐J. , Lin C.‐C. , Hsu C.‐W. , Chen Y.‐C. , Chang M.‐L. , Yeh C.‐T.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNA splicing has been reported by many researchers, the clinical significance of this event remains illusive. The present study was designed to investigate the clinical roles of singly spliced HBV‐RNA. Liver biopsy tissues obtained from 32 consecutive patients were subjected to reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction for the detection of singly spliced and unspliced HBV‐RNA. Stepwise linear regression model was used to estimate the ratio of singly spliced to unspliced (S/US) HBV‐RNA in the presence of the following variables: age, gender, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, alpha‐foetoprotein, status of HBV e antigen (HBeAg), status of antibody to HBeAg, HBV‐DNA, histology activity index (HAI), fibrotic score, grade of cytoplasmic HBV core antigen (HBcAg), grade of nuclear HBcAg, genotype, status of precore‐stop‐mutation, basal core promoter mutation, previous lamivudine therapy and superinfection by other hepatitis viruses. The results showed that HAI (β = −0.2616; P = 0.011) and grade of nuclear HBcAg expression (β = 0.5599; P =0.0067) were two independent predictors for the expression of singly spliced HBV‐RNA. Further categorical analysis showed that patients with HAI score ≤6 and grading of nuclear HBcAg ≥2 have significantly higher S/US ratios. In conclusion, nuclear HBcAg and HAI are two independent predictors for the expression of singly spliced HBV‐RNA.
Comparative study between occult hepatitis C virus infection and chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Pardo M. , López‐Alcorocho J. M. , Rodríguez‐Iñigo E. , Castillo I. , Carreño V.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  We have recently described the presence of occult hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (HCV‐RNA in liver in the absence of anti‐HCV and serum HCV‐RNA) in patients with persistently abnormal liver function tests of unknown aetiology. The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics of patients with occult HCV infection vs those of patients with chronic hepatitis C. We compared clinical features of 68 patients with occult HCV infection and 69 untreated chronic HCV patients (anti‐HCV and serum HCV‐RNA positive), matched for age, gender, duration of abnormal liver function tests and body mass index. Aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were higher (P < 0.001) in chronic HCV, but cholesterol and triglycerides were significantly higher in patients with occult HCV infection (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002). Chronic HCV patients had higher gamma‐globulin (P = 0.005), alpha‐foetoprotein (P < 0.001) and iron (P < 0.001) levels. Percentage of patients with necroinflammatory activity and fibrosis was higher (P < 0.001) in chronic HCV than in occult HCV infection. Mean percentage of infected hepatocytes was higher (P = 0.001) in chronic HCV (10.1%) than in occult HCV infection (5.3%). This occult HCV infection is a milder disease than chronic HCV, and this could be related to the significantly lower number of infected hepatocytes observed in occult HCV.
A short course of pegylated interferon‐αin acute HCV hepatitis
Authors: Calleri G. , Cariti G. , Gaiottino F. , De Rosa F. G. , Bargiacchi O. , Audagnotto S. , Quaglia S. , De Blasi T. , Romano P. , Traverso A. , Leo G. , Carbone R. , Del Mastro B. , Tinelli M. , Caramello P. , Di Perri G.
Published: August 2006

Summary. Acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection evolves to chronicity in 50–84% cases. Treatment with interferon‐α(IFN‐α) was repeatedly found to provide sustained cure rates higher than that in chronic HCV infection, but the optimal treatment strategy has not yet been defined. In a multicentre open‐label study, we investigated the therapeutic performance of a short course of pegylated (peg) IFN‐αin patients with acute HCV hepatitis. Peg IFN‐α2b, 1.0–1.5 μg/kg weekly, was administered for 12 weeks. Forty‐six patients were enrolled; 26 of them were intravenous drug users. Eleven patients had jaundice. Treatment was started within 1–90 days from the peak alanine aminotransferase. Treatment was well tolerated with a single dropout (2%). Thirty‐three of 46 patients (72%) had a sustained virological response (SVR) after a 6 months post‐treatment follow‐up, 8 (17%) relapsed after treatment and 4 were nonresponders (9%). A lower peak viraemia, receiving at least 1.2 μg/kg of peg IFN‐α, and a negative HCV‐RNA at week 4 and week 12 were predictors of SVR. Thus, in patients with early (week 4) viral response, a short course of peg IFN‐αat a weekly dose >1.2 μg/kg, may be a valuable option for the treatment of acute HCV hepatitis.
Divergence in mating signals correlates with ecological variation in the migratory songbird, Swainson's thrush (Catharus ustulatus)
Authors: RUEGG K. , SLABBEKOORN H. , CLEGG S. , SMITH T. B.
Published: August 2006

Song divergence among populations of passerine birds is recognized as a potentially important premating isolation mechanism and may represent the first step in speciation. Because song divergence may be influenced by an array of acoustic, ecological, and genetic factors, the study of its origin requires a multifaceted approach. Here we describe the relationship between acoustic, neutral genetic and ecological variation in five populations of the Swainson's thrush: two from coastal temperate rainforest habitat representing the ‘russet‐backed’ subspecies group, two from inland coniferous forest habitat representing the ‘olive‐backed’ subspecies group, and one mixed locality that resides within a contact zone between the two groups. Song in the five populations is analysed using a multivariate analysis of spectral and temporal measurements, population genetic structure is assessed using an analysis of five microsatellite loci and ecological differences between populations are quantified using an analysis of climatic parameters. Matrix correspondence tests are used to distinguish between the potential for drift and selection in driving song divergence. No significant correlation was found between acoustic and genetic distance suggesting that song divergence cannot be explained by drift alone. A significant correlation between ecological and acoustic distance after accounting for genetic distance, suggests a potential role for ecological selection on divergence in spectral and temporal components of Swainson's thrush song.
Responding to Empire: Liberal Nationalism and Imperial Decline in Scotland and Québec1
Authors: KENNEDY JAMES
Published: August 2006

Abstract This article emphasises the role of empire in explaining the emergence of “liberal nationalism” in Scotland and Québec in the early twentieth century. That period witnessed a relative decline in the British Empire's geopolitical standing. In response British governments implemented policies which sought to redress its decline. The article focuses on three policies – the South African War, tariff reform and imperial defence – and the response of the Young Scots' Society and the self‐ascribedNationalistes. Both groups espoused a “liberal nationalism”. Yet their liberal nationalism was expressed differently: emphasis was placed on “liberal” in Scotland, and on “nationalism” in Québec, reflecting contrasting relationships with empire.
Convention and Intersubjectivity: New Developments in French Economics
Authors: LATSIS JOHN
Published: August 2006

The recently formed French School of the “économie des conventions” have claimed that they are developing a revolutionary new approach to the social sciences. This group of researchers in economics, philosophy, sociology, law and history attempt to transcend the inherited analytical frameworks of structural‐functionalist sociology and neoclassical economics and provide an alternative picture of the social world. This article will investigate some of these claims in detail. First, I trace the cohesion of the Convention School's ideas around the key concept of convention. Conventionalist theory reflects an ontological shift towards the recognition of intersubjectivity. This shift leads to tension between the advocacy of methodological individualism on the one hand and the use of convention as a central analytical category on the other.
Effects of acoustic distortion and semantic context on event‐related potentials to spoken words
Authors: Aydelott Jennifer , Dick Frederic , Mills Debra L.
Published: August 2006

This study examined the neurophysiological effects of acoustic degradation on auditory semantic processing. Event‐related potentials were recorded to target words presented in a sentence context. Targets were semantically congruent or incongruent with the context, which was acoustically intact or low‐pass filtered. In unaltered contexts, N400 amplitude was significantly greater for incongruent than congruent words. Filtering significantly reduced this effect, even though participants were highly accurate in interpreting the degraded stimuli, as shown by an anomaly detection task. This reduction in the N400 effect appeared to be driven by decreased N400 amplitudes over posterior electrode sites for incongruent targets. These results demonstrate that acoustic degradation influences the neural response to words in context by reducing the availability of semantic information in on‐line sentence comprehension.
Short communication: Oral inosiplex in the treatment of cervical condylomata acuminata: a randomised placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Georgala S , Katoulis AC , Befon A , Georgala C , Rigopoulos D
Published: August 2006

Conventional therapies for human papillomavirus infection aim to remove clinically apparent lesions, while latent infection may remain, representing a threat for transmission and carcinogenesis. The use of a systemic agent may more effectively control the virus. We conducted a randomised placebo‐controlled study to investigate the efficacy and safety of oral inociplex in the treatment of cervical condylomata acuminata (CA) that had been resistant to conventional therapies. Thirty‐eight white European women, aged 20–43 years, with genital warts of the cervix, refractory to at least one conventional therapy, were randomly assigned to receive either inosiplex, 50 mg/kg daily peros for 12 weeks (group 1), or placebo (group 2). Of the 17 evaluable group 1 women, 4 responded to the treatment completely, 7 responded partially and 6 did not respond. Of the 19 group 2 women, none responded to the treatment completely, 3 responded partially and 16 did not respond. The therapeutic difference between women receiving active and placebo therapy was statistically significant (χ2= 6.69, P < 0.01) and remained significant when an intention‐to‐treat analysis was performed (χ2= 7.69, P < 0.01). None of the complete responders experienced recurrence during the 12‐month follow up. Adverse effects were mild and resolved upon completion of therapy. Compared with placebo, inosiplex showed considerable efficacy with insignificant and reversible adverse effects and without recurrences. Inosiplex may represent an efficacious and safe alternative systemic form of therapy for cervical genital warts.
Factors associated with the awareness and practice of evidence‐based obstetric care in an African setting
Authors: Tita ATN , Selwyn BJ , Waller DK , Kapadia AS , Dongmo S
Published: August 2006

Objective  To identify the factors associated with important (≥50%) variation in awareness and practice of evidence‐based obstetric interventions in an African setting where we have previously reported poor awareness and use of evidence‐based reproductive interventions.

Design  Cross‐sectional analysis of data from our Reproductive Health Interventions Study.

Setting  North‐west province, Cameroon, Africa.

Population  Health workers including obstetricians, other physicians, midwives, nurses and other staff providing reproductive care.

Main outcome measures  Prevalence ratios (PR) of uniform awareness and practice of four key evidence‐based obstetric interventions from the World Health Organization Reproductive Health Library (WHO RHL): antiretrovirals to prevent mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV/AIDS, antenatal corticosteroids for prematurity, uterotonics to prevent postpartum haemorrhage and magnesium sulphate for seizure prophylaxis.

Methods  Comparisons of descriptive covariates, applying logistic regression to estimate independent relationships with awareness and use of evidence‐based interventions.

Results  A total of 15.5% (50/322) of health workers were aware of all the four interventions while only 3.8% (12/312) reported optimal practice. Evidence‐based awareness was strongly associated with practice (PR = 15.4; 96% CI: 4.3–55.0). Factors significantly associated with awareness were: attending continuing education, access to the WHO RHL, employment as an obstetrician/gynaecologist and working in autonomous military or National Insurance Fund facilities. Controlling for potential confounding, working as an obstetrician was associated with increased awareness (adjusted prevalence odds ratio [aPOR] = 8.3; 95% CI: 1.3–53.8) as was median work experience of 5–15 years (aPOR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.0–3.8). Internet access was associated with increased practice (aPOR = 3.4; 95% CI: 1.0–11.8). Other potentially important variations were observed, although they did not attain statistical significance.

Conclusions  Several factors including obstetric training and continuous education positively influence evidence‐based awareness and practice of key obstetric interventions. Confirmation and application of this information may enhance the effectiveness of programmes to improve maternal and perinatal outcomes.
A cost‐effectiveness analysis of the intrapartum fetal pulse oximetry multicentre randomised controlled trial (the FOREMOST trial)
Authors: East CE , Gascoigne MB , Doran CM , Brennecke SP , King JF , Colditz PB
Published: August 2006

Objective To report an economic analysis of the Australian intrapartum fetal pulse oximetry (FPO) multicentre randomised controlled trial (the FOREMOST trial), which examined whether adding FPO to conventional cardiotocographic (CTG) monitoring (intervention group) was cost‐effective in reducing operative delivery rates for non‐reassuring fetal status compared with the use of CTG alone (control group).

Design Cost‐effectiveness analysis of the FOREMOST trial.

Setting Four Australian maternity hospitals, each with more than 4000 births/year.

Population Women in labour at ≥36 weeks of gestation, with a non‐reassuring CTG.

Methods Costs were for treatment‐related expenses, incorporating diagnosis‐related grouping costs and direct costs (including fetal monitoring). Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) and cost‐effectiveness plane were calculated, and sensitivity analysis was conducted. The primary outcome was that of the clinical trial: operative delivery for non‐reassuring fetal status avoided in the intervention group relative to that in the control group.

Main outcome measures The ICER.

Results The ICER demonstrated a saving of $A813 for each operative birth for non‐reassuring fetal status averted by the addition of FPO to CTG monitoring compared with the use of CTG monitoring alone.

Conclusion The addition of FPO to CTG monitoring represented a less costly and more effective use of resources to reduce operative delivery rates for non‐reassuring fetal status than the use of conventional CTG monitoring alone.
Intracellular Calcium Response and Adhesiveness of Chick Embryonic Retinal Neurons to Photoelectric Dye‐coupled Polyethylene Films as Prototypes of Retinal Prostheses
Authors: Uji Akihito , Matsuo Toshihiko , Uchida Tetsuya , Shimamura Kaoru , Ohtsuki Hiroshi
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Photoelectric dyes, which absorb light and convert photon energy to electric potentials, were shown to stimulate retinal neurons in culture. One of these dyes coupled with polyethylene film surface, as a prototype of retinal prostheses, could induce intracellular calcium elevation in chick embryonic retinal tissues. In this study, we used retinal cells from chick embryos in which no photoreceptor outer segments yet developed, and assessed cell adhesiveness and response to the original and modified types of our retinal prostheses.

Extruded‐blown film of high density polyethylene was used as the original polyethylene film. Polyethylene film surface was modified either by coupling with type 1 collagen or by crystallization from the melt of the original polyethylene film. A photoelectric dye, 2‐[2‐[4‐(dibutylamino)phenyl]ethenyl]‐3‐carboxymethylbenzothiazolium bromide, was coupled to these different types of polyethylene films through amide linkage. Retinal cells from chick embryos at the 12‐day embryonic stage were cultured on the surface of dye‐coupled films. The response of retinal cells to the dye‐coupled films was observed by calcium imaging. Cell types, either neurons or glial cells, were detected by immunocytochemical staining and also observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Intracellular calcium elevation was observed in cells, including both neurons and glial cells, on the surface of the original dye‐coupled film, collagen‐coated dye‐coupled film, and dye‐coupled recrystallized film, in contrast with no response of cells cultured on the dye‐uncoupled plain film. Retinal neurons grew upon colonies of glial cells settling on the surface of all different types of the films. The number of retinal neurons on the collagen‐coated dye‐coupled film and dye‐coupled recrystallized film was significantly larger than the number of neurons on the dye‐uncoupled plain film (P = 0.0004, analysis of variance; P < 0.05, Tukey–Kramer test). With SEM, Muller cell‐like large cells covered the original dye‐coupled film and collagen‐coated dye‐coupled film, while neuron‐like small cells settled directly on the dye‐coupled recrystallized film and also formed large colonies on Muller‐like cells. Retinal neurons and glial cells were cultured directly on the different types of dye‐coupled polyethylene films. Photoelectric dye‐coupled polyethylene films could be used as prototypes of retinal prostheses.
Immobilized Microalgal Cells as an Oxygen Supply System for Encapsulated Pancreatic Islets: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Bloch Konstantin , Papismedov Eli , Yavriyants Karina , Vorobeychik Marina , Beer Sven , Vardi Pnina
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Recently, a novel technique for oxygen supply to immunoisolated islets, which adopts the photosynthetic capacity of microalgae to generate oxygen, has been described. Illuminated alga cells, co‐immobilized with islets in one compartment, were capable of restoring glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion during perifusion with anoxic medium. In the present study, a new model system for photosynthetic oxygen supply to encapsulated islets, containing two separate compartments—one for oxygen‐producing alga cells and the other for insulin‐secreting pancreatic islets—is described. No insulin response to increasing glucose concentrations was found when encapsulated islets alone were perifused with oxygen‐free medium. However, when the perifused chamber contained not only encapsulated islets, but also illuminated algae, immobilized in alginate, the islets showed twice the amount of insulin secretion in response to a high level of glucose (P < 0.01). This finding suggests that the level of photosynthetic oxygen generated in the algal compartment was sufficient to support the functional activity of the islets. Such a technology may offer the potential application for oxygen supply to various transplanted immunoisolated cells.
First Clinical Experience With the Air Purge Control and Electrical Remote‐controlled Tubing Clamp in Mini Bypass
Authors: Huybregts Rien M.A.J.M. , Veerman Derk P. , Vonk Alexander B.A. , Nesselaar Alfred F. , Paulus Reggie C.E. , Thone‐Passchier Deirdre H. , Smith Annette L. , De Vroege Roel
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Most mini bypass systems do not contain a venous and cardiotomy reservoir in the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit and lack the capability to remove venous air. In conjunction with the manufacturer the air purge control system, a system which automatically removes air that is captured in a venous bubble trap, has been developed. This system is combined with an electrical remote clamp, which automatically clamps the arterial line in case air leaves the bubble trap. Twenty consecutive patients undergoing surgery with CPB were included in this clinical validation. Venous air was removed by the air purge control during bypass. The electrical remote clamp was never activated by the system, confirming that the air purge control adequately removed venous air during these cases. The air purge control, in conjunction with the electrical remote clamp, is a valuable safety feature in mini bypass, enhancing patient safety and user friendliness while providing a level of safety equivalent to those of conventional bypass systems.
How Long Do Most Seizures Last? A Systematic Comparison of Seizures Recorded in the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit
Authors: Jenssen Sigmund , Gracely Edward J. , Sperling Michael R.
Published: August 2006

Summary:  Purpose: More information is needed regarding how long seizures typically last, since this influences treatment decisions. Seizure type and other factors could influence seizure duration.

Methods: Data were collected from a random sample of patients being evaluated with continuous video and scalp EEG. Seizure duration was defined as time from early sign of seizure (clinical or EEG) until the end of seizure on EEG. Seizures were categorized as simple partial (SPS), complex partial (CPS), secondarily generalized tonic–clonic (SGTCS), primary generalized tonic–clonic (PGTCS) and tonic (TS). SGTCS were divided into a complex partial part (SGTCS/CP) and a tonic–clonic part (SGTCS/TC). Median and longest duration of each seizure type in each individual were used. Comparisons of seizure types, first and last seizure, area of onset, and state of onset were performed.

Results: Five hundred seventy‐nine seizures were recorded in 159 adult patients. Seizures with partial onset spreading to both hemispheres had the longest duration. SGTCS were unlikely to last more than 660 s, CPS more than 600 s, and SPS more than 240 s. PGTCS and TS had shorter durations, but the number of subjects with those two types was small. CPS did not differ in duration according to sleep state at onset nor side of origin.

Conclusion: A working definition of status epilepticus in adults with cryptogenic or symptomatic epilepsy can be drawn from these data for purposes of future epidemiologic research. More information is needed for the idiopathic epilepsies and in children.
Substantia Nigra Is an Anticonvulsant Site of Action of Topiramate in the Focal Pilocarpine Model of Limbic Seizures
Authors: Meurs Alfred , Clinckers Ralph , Ebinger Guy , Michotte Yvette , Smolders Ilse
Published: August 2006

Summary:  Purpose: The substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNR) is known to play a role in gating and control of seizures. Prompted by the observation that intrahippocampal topiramate (TPM) administration does not suppress limbic seizures in the focal pilocarpine model, we investigated the role of the SNR in the anticonvulsant mechanism of action of TPM.

Methods: Limbic seizures were evoked in freely moving rats by intrahippocampal administration of pilocarpine via a microdialysis probe. Changes in hippocampal extracellular (EC) glutamate and GABA concentrations were monitored. Effects of intraperitoneal (10–200 mg/kg), intrahippocampal (1–5 mM), and bilateral intranigral (100–300 nmol) TPM administration on pilocarpine‐induced seizures and neurochemical changes were evaluated. Effects of TPM administration alone on hippocampal and nigral EC amino acid concentrations were also studied.

Results: Systemic and intranigral, but not intrahippocampal TPM administration suppressed pilocarpine‐induced seizures and neurochemical changes. Nigral GABAA receptor blockade by picrotoxin abolished the anticonvulsant effect of TPM in SNR. Systemic TPM administration increased hippocampal glutamate and decreased GABA. Intranigral TPM administration increased hippocampal glutamate, but not GABA. Intrahippocampal TPM increased hippocampal glutamate and GABA, but only at high concentrations.

Conclusions: In the focal pilocarpine model, TPM does not exert its anticonvulsant effect at the site of seizure initiation. We identified the SNR as a site of action of TPM, and showed that the nigral GABA‐ergic system is central to TPM's anticonvulsant effect in SNR. Anticonvulsant effects and neurochemical changes in hippocampus following intranigral TPM administration suggest the existence of a nigro‐hippocampal circuit, which may be involved in the control of limbic seizures.