bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive value of the baseline T‐QRS ratio of the fetal electrocardiogram in intrapartum fetal monitoring: a prospective cohort study
Authors: BECKER JEROEN H. , KUIPERS LIDEWIJ J.M. , SCHUIT EWOUD , VISSER GERARD H.A. , VAN DEN AKKER ELINE S.A. , VAN BEEK ERIK , BOLTE ANTOINETTE C. , RIJNDERS ROBERT J.P. , MOL BEN WILLEM J. , PORATH MARTINA M. , DROGTROP ADDY P. , SCHUITEMAKER NICO W.E. , WILLEKES CHRISTINE , WESTERHUIS MICHELLE E.M.H. , MOONS KAREL G.M. , KWEE ANNEKE
Published: November 2011

Objective. To evaluate the added value of the baseline T/QRS ratio to other known risk factors in predicting adverse outcome and interventions for suspected fetal distress. Design. Prospective cohort study. Setting. Three academic and six non‐academic teaching hospitals in the Netherlands. Population. Laboring women with a high‐risk cephalic singleton pregnancy beyond 36 weeks of gestation. Methods. We obtained STAN® recordings (ST‐analysis, Neoventa, Sweden) from two previous studies. Three patient groups were defined: cases with adverse outcome, cases with emergency delivery because of suspected fetal distress without adverse outcome, and a reference group of uncomplicated cases. Baseline T/QRS ratios among the adverse outcome and intervention for suspected fetal distress cases were compared to those of the uncomplicated cases. The ability of baseline T/QRS to predict adverse outcome and suspected fetal distress was determined using a multivariable logistic model. Main outcome measures. The added value of the baseline T/QRS to other known risk factors in the prediction of adverse outcome and interventions for suspected fetal distress. Results. From 3462 recordings, 2459 were available for analysis. Median baseline T/QRS for uncomplicated cases, adverse outcome and interventions for suspected fetal distress were 0.12 (range 0.00–0.52), 0.12 (0.00–0.42) and 0.13 (0.00–0.39), respectively. There was no statistical difference between these groups. Multivariable analysis showed no added value of baseline T/QRS in the prediction of either adverse outcome or interventions for suspected fetal distress. Conclusion. Baseline T/QRS has no added value in the prediction of adverse neonatal outcome or interventions for suspected fetal distress.
Analysis of the bone metabolism by quantitative computer tomography and clinical chemistry in a primate model (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Grohmann J. , Kuehnel F. , Buchwald U. , Koeller G. , Habla C. , Einspanier A.
Published: November 2011

Background  Common marmosets are widely used as experimental primates; however, little is still known about their bone physiology. Therefore, the aim of our study was to analyse body weight, age and bone‐specific blood parameters in relation to morphological bone parameters.

Methods  Fifty‐eight common marmosets were analysed for blood calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphor (Pi), alkaline phosphatase (AP) and 17‐β‐estradiol (E2). The examination of bone parameters was undertaken in the lumbar spine by computer tomography.

Results  There was a correlation between bone mineral density (BMD) and body weight, trabecular area ratio and polar moment as well as between BMD and AP or Ca (only males), whereas there were no correlations between BMD and age, Pi or E2 in all analysed genders.

Conclusions  Our data support the assumption that the common marmoset is a reliable primate model to study changes in bone metabolism because of the similarity of our results to humans.
Detection of vertical root fractures in non‐endodontically treated molars using cone‐beam computed tomography: a report of four representative cases
Authors: Wang Ping , He Wenxi , Sun Hantang , Lu Qun , Ni Longxing
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Vertical root fractures (VRFs) in teeth without endodontic treatment are relatively uncommon. The diagnosis is based on clinical and radiographic presentations. It might be difficult to detect VRFs in non‐endodontically treated molars by conventional radiographs in certain situations because of the limitations of 2D images and many others factors such as the VRFs being in their early stages. Root morphology variation and the orientation of VRFs can influence conventional radiographic detection and the interpretation of a radiolucent fracture line. The four case reports presented here describe and discuss the use of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) in successfully diagnosing VRFs based on direct visualization of radiolucent lines, especially those suspected from routine conventional radiographs, as well as their symptoms and clinical findings. CBCT also provides more information on the presence of VRFs.
Transient discoloration of the coronal fragment in intra‐alveolar root fractures
Authors: Malmgren Barbro , Hübel Sofie
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Background: Root fractures are a relatively rare type of injury with frequencies of 0.5–7% of traumatized permanent teeth. It is well known that teeth with intra‐alveolar root fractures have a good prognosis. The pulp remains vital in about 80% of these teeth. If pulp necrosis develops, this normally only occurs in the coronal fragment. Although several studies on intra‐alveolar root fractures have been published during the last decades, none have mentioned that transient discoloration can occur. The aim of our study was to study the frequency and prognosis for intra‐alveolar root fractures with discoloration. Material and methods: The material consisted of 42 permanent incisors from 21 boys and 18 girls aged 7–19 years (mean = 12.7, median 12.0). In two girls and one boy, two incisors exhibited concurrent intra‐alveolar root fractured. The follow‐up period ranged from 1 to 9 years. The colour changes were determined at each control by transillumination of the clinical crown from the facial and palatal surfaces. Electrometric sensibility was evaluated and compared to the values of adjacent teeth using an electric pulp tester. At the final clinical and radiographic control, the type of healing was registered. Results: Discoloration was found in nine teeth. The root development was completed in all these teeth. The discoloration disappeared within 4 weeks to 6 months in eight teeth. The sensibility, which was lost at the injury, followed the changes in discoloration, and all teeth had regained normal sensibility when the discoloration had disappeared. Only one tooth, which showed a greyish hue, developed pulp necrosis. Conclusion: Transient discoloration in intra‐alveolar fractures is relatively common and is indicative of a good prognosis for healing.
Effect of milk renewal on human periodontal ligament fibroblast viability in vitro
Authors: de Souza Beatriz D.M. , Lückemeyer Débora D. , Felippe Wilson T. , Alves Ana M.H. , Simões Cláudia M.O. , Felippe Mara C.S.
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Milk has been studied extensively and has gained wide acceptance as a suitable storage medium capable of maintenance of avulsed teeth that cannot be replanted immediately. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the renewal of milk as a storage medium every 24 h for up to 120 h is able to increase its ability to maintain human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLF) viability in vitro. Plates with confluent PDLF were soaked in minimum essential medium (MEM) at 37°C (positive control) and in skimmed milk (22 wells) and water (negative control) for 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h at 5 and 20°C. The skimmed milk was renewed every 24 h in 11 of the wells of each plate. After these periods, cell viability was determined by the tetrazolium salt‐based colorimetric (MTT) assay. Data were statistically analyzed by Kruskal–Wallis and Scheffé tests (α = 5%). At 24 h, milk and MEM performed similarly. However, from 48 h onwards, MEM was significantly better than renewed and not renewed milk at both temperatures. Regardless of temperature (5 or 20°C), renewal of milk with fresh milk did not affect its ability to maintain PDLF viability.
Using cognitive‐behavioural techniques to improve exclusive breastfeeding in a low‐literacy disadvantaged population
Authors: Rahman Atif , Haq Zaeem , Sikander Siham , Ahmad Ikhlaq , Ahmad Mansoor , Hafeez Assad
Published: November 2011

Despite being an important component of Pakistan's primary health care programme, the rates of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months remain among the lowest in the world. Low levels of literacy in women and deeply held cultural beliefs and practices have been found to contribute to the ineffectiveness of routine counselling delivered universally by community health workers in Pakistan. We aimed to address this by incorporating techniques of cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) into the routine counselling process. We conducted qualitative studies of stakeholders' opinions (mothers, community health workers, their trainers and programme managers) and used this data to develop a psycho‐educational approach that combined education with techniques of CBT that could be integrated into the health workers' routine work. The workers were trained to use this approach and feedback was obtained after implementation. The new intervention was successfully integrated into the community health worker programme and found to be culturally acceptable, feasible and useful. Incorporating techniques of CBT into routine counselling may be useful to promote health behaviours in traditional societies with low literacy rates.
Fatty acids in serum and diet – a canonical correlation analysis among toddlers
Authors: Uusitalo Liisa , Nevalainen Jaakko , Salminen Irma , Ovaskainen Marja‐Leena , Kronberg‐Kippilä Carina , Ahonen Suvi , Niinistö Sari , Alfthan Georg , Simell Olli , Ilonen Jorma , Veijola Riitta , Knip Mikael , Virtanen Suvi M.
Published: November 2011

Fatty acid concentrations in blood are potential biomarkers of dietary fat intake, but methodological studies among children are scarce. The large number of fatty acids and their complex interrelationships pose a special challenge in research on fatty acids. Our target was to assess the interrelationships between the total fatty acid profiles in diet and serum of young children. The study subjects were healthy control children from the birth cohort of the Type 1 Diabetes Prediction and Prevention Study. A 3‐day food record and a frozen serum sample were available from 135 children at the age of 1 year, from 133 at 2 years, and from 92 at 3 years. The relationship between dietary and serum fatty acid profiles was analysed using canonical correlation analysis. The consumption of fatty milk correlated positively with serum fatty acids, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) at all ages. Correlations between dietary and serum eicosapentaenoic and/or docosahexaenoic acid were observed at 2 and 3 years of age. Serum linoleic acid was positively associated with the consumption of infant formula at the age of 1 year, and with the consumption of vegetable margarine at 2 and 3 years. The results indicate a high quality of the 3‐day food records kept by parents and other caretakers of the children, and suitability of non‐fasting, un‐fractioned serum samples for total fatty acid analyses. The correlation between intake of milk fat and serum proportion of CLA is a novel finding.
No need for biopsies: comparison of three sample techniques for wound microbiota determination
Authors: Gjødsbøl Kristine , Skindersoe Mette E , Christensen Jens Jørgen , Karlsmark Tonny , Jørgensen Bo , Jensen Anders Mørup , Klein Bjarke M , Sonnested Michael K , Krogfelt Karen A
Published: November 2011

The aim of the study was to compare three sampling techniques used in routine diagnostics to identify the microbiota in chronic venous leg ulcers. A total of 46 patients with persisting venous leg ulcers were included in the study. At inclusion, swab, biopsy and filter paper pad samples were collected. After 4 weeks, additional biopsy and filter paper pad samples were collected. Bacteria were isolated and identified at species level by standard methods. The most common bacterial species detected was Staphylococcus aureus found in 89% of the ulcers. No methicillin‐resistant S. aureus isolates were found.

We did not find any significant differences regarding the bacterial species isolated between the three sampling techniques. However, using multiple techniques led to identification of more species. Our study suggests that it is sufficient to use swab specimens to identify the bacterial species present in chronic wounds, thus avoiding complications during and after biopsy sampling.
Tritrophic interactions amongBtmaize, an insect pest and entomopathogens: effects on development and survival of western corn rootworm
Authors: Petzold‐Maxwell J.L. , Jaronski S.T. , Gassmann A.J.
Published: November 2011

Agricultural systems often provide a model for testing ecological hypotheses, while ecological theory can enable more effective pest management. One of the best examples of this is the interaction between host‐plant resistance and natural enemies. With the advent of crops that are genetically modified to produce insecticidal toxins from the bacteriumBacillus thuringiensis(Bt), a new form of host‐plant resistance has been introduced to agroecosystems. HowBtcrops interact with natural enemies, especially insect pathogens in below‐ground systems, is not well understood, but provides a unique opportunity to study below‐ground tritrophic interactions. In this study, we used two species of entomopathogenic fungi and three species of entomopathogenic nematodes to determine how this community of soil‐borne natural enemies might interact withBtmaize (event 59122, expressing the insecticidal proteinCry34/35Ab1) to affect survival and development of western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera), which is an obligate root feeder and a serious pest of maize. We ran two experiments, one in a greenhouse and one in a growth chamber. Both experiments consisted of a fully crossed design with two maize treatments (Btmaize and non‐Btmaize) and two entomopathogen treatments (present or absent). The community of entomopathogens significantly increased mortality of western corn rootworm, andBtmaize increased larval developmental time and mortality. Entomopathogens andBtmaize acted in an independent and additive manner, with both factors increasing the mortality of western corn rootworm. Results from this study suggest that entomopathogens may complement host‐plant resistance fromBtcrops.
HYDROGEN‐DEUTERIUM EXCHANGE AND ULTRAVIOLET RESONANCE RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY OF BACTERIA IN A COMPLEX FOOD MATRIX1
Authors: HARHAY GREGORY P. , SIRAGUSA GREGORY R.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  The rapid identification and quantification of pathogenic foodborne bacteria is a national research priority. Data collected with a new spectrochemical method suggests that resonance Raman spectroscopy can rapidly and selectively identify and quantify bacteria in foods and other complex biomatrices. This method utilizes hydrogen‐deuterium exchange (HDE) to resolve the spectral fingerprints of individual components in the overlapped regions of the ultraviolet resonance Raman spectra of heterogeneous samples. We illustrate this concept with HDE‐induced changes in the spectra of bacteria and beef carcass wash samples. The data presented here suggest that the combination of ultraviolet resonance Raman spectroscopy and HDE can potentially establish the identities and quantities of bacteria in heterogeneous samples within seconds to minutes.
MULTI‐PIPETTE SYSTEM FOR RECOVERY OF LISTERIA SPP. AND SALMONELLA SPP. SIMULTANEOUSLY1
Authors: KANG DONG‐HYUN , FUNG DANIEL Y.C. , JIANG GUANCHENG
Published: November 2011

Abstract  A new rapid method to simultaneously isolate Listeria spp. and Salmonella spp. was developed and evaluated. To construct the Multi‐Pipette (MP) method, two pipettes were used to hold 1 mL of selective agar media (one pipette: Modified Oxford, MOX medium for Listeria spp. and the other pipette: Xylose Lysine Decarboxylase, XLD medium for Salmonella spp.). One mL of Brain Heart Infusion broth (BHI) was added onto the selective media through the top of 10 mL pipette. The two pipettes were placed together in a sterilized stomacher bag containing 225 mL of sterilized BHI broth that was used as enrichment broth. Listeria spp. or Salmonella spp. were enriched in the BHI broth and moved up to selective agar medium in the pipettes. They changed the color of the agar and also caused turbidity of the BHI on top of the selective agar. Three treatments were used to evaluate the MP method; (1) L. monocytogenes (103–4 CFU/mL), (2) S. typhimurium (103–4 CFU/mL), and (3) L. monocytogenes (103–4 CFU/mL) and S. typhimurium (103–4 CFU/mL) inoculated into enrichment broth with competitors [Escherichia coli (106–7 CFU/mL) and Staphylococcus aureus (106–7 CFU/mL)]. After 24 h of incubation at 35C, the colors of selective media in the MP (MOX in treatment 1, XLD in treatment 2, and MOX and XLD in treatment 3) were changed to black, and the cultures were isolated from BHI broth in the 10 mL pipettes. This approach is simple, rapid, and economical for simultaneous isolation of motile foodborne pathogens.
NOVEL METHOD FOR STUDY OF THE EXTRACELLULAR CELL‐BOUND PROTEINASE FROM LACTIC ACID BACTERIA1
Authors: FUNG DANIEL Y.C. , KANG DONGHYUN , PAILIN THANGPONG , SCHMIDT KAREN A.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Skim milk agar was developed to investigate extracellular cell‐bound proteinase in yogurt cultures. The agar was inoculated with yogurt starter cultures Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, incubated anaerobically at 37C for 48 h, and then stored at 4C for 3 days. Both S. thermophilus and L. bulgaricus colonies, which could produce extracellular proteinase, developed clear zones in skim milk agar. The clear zone produced by L. bulgaricus was bigger (4.551‐4.620 mm) than that produced by S. thermophilus (2.350 mm). This result suggested that L. bulgaricus produced more extracellular cell‐bound proteinase. The clear zone on skim milk agar can be used to easily determine the presence of extracellular cell bound proteinase. and furthermore, the size of clear zone might indicate proteolytic activity.
A RAPID METHOD FOR DETECTING BACTERIA IN DRINKING WATER
Authors: LEE JIYOUNG , DEININGER ROLF A.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  A rapid determination of the total bacterial count in drinking water is important to the operators of treatment plants and distribution systems. It will allow corrective measures in real‐time, such as increasing the disinfectant dose or removing water that has high bacterial numbers. The present heterotrophic plate count (HPC) analysis takes seven days and is not useful for operational intervention. The purpose of this study was to determine if a rapid adenosine triphosphate (ATP) assay would estimate the total number of bacteria in minutes. For quality control purposes and also to test the accuracy of both the ATP and HPC test, direct enumeration of the bacteria in a water sample was done using two epifluorescence methods. One was acridine orange direct count (AODC) method, which allows enumeration of both viable and nonviable bacteria. The other was direct viable count (DVC) method, which enumerates viable bacteria. Water samples originated from local, national, and international locations. The sample selection criteria were based on proximity to the laboratory, cooperating water utilities, and the travel of the authors. The results of the study show that the rapid ATP assay is highly correlated with the conventional plate count method and the DVC method, and estimates the bacterial quality of drinking water in minutes.
PERFORMANCE OF PETRIFILM™ KIT‐HEC FOR ENUMERATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 IN ARTIFICIALLY CONTAMINATED GROUND BEEF
Authors: SAAD SUSANA M. I. , FRANCO BERNADETTE D.G.M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Petrifilm™ Kit‐HEC (3M Company, St. Paul, MN) was used to monitor the growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in ground beef co‐inoculated with microorganisms of the background flora, including nonpathogenic E.coli, Pseudomonas putida or Leuconostoc sp. The growth was monitored in beef samples stored at room temperature and under refrigeration. A cultural procedure using sorbitol MacConkey agar was used for comparison. The correlation between counts of E.coli O157:H7 using these procedures was high: 99.1% for samples kept at room temperature and 94.9% for those kept under refrigeration.
EFFECTS OF MEMBRANE PROTONOPHORES ON THE ATP CONTENT OF IMMUNOMAGNETIC BEADS CAPTURED ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7
Authors: TU SHU‐I , PATTERSON DEIDRE , YU LINDA S. L. , IRWIN PETER
Published: November 2011

Abstract  An approach to rapidly detect the presence of viable Escherichia coli O157:H7 is described. Specific immunomagnetic beads were applied to capture the bacteria in different solutions. The captured bacteria were then lysed by commercially available reagents to release cellular ATP which was detected by firefly luciferin‐luciferase induced chemiluminescence. The bioenergetic status of the bacteria was adjusted by the addition of glucose, a carbon nutrient source, and carbonyl cyanide meta‐chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP), a membrane protonophore. The addition of glucose restored oxygen consumption and medium acidification activities and increased the ATP content of harvested bacteria after storage. On the other hand, CCCP enhanced the oxygen consumption and medium acidification but significantly decreased the ATP content. None of the glucose and CCCP effects could be detected with heat‐killed and γ‐ray irradiated E. coli O157:H7. Thus, immunomagnetic capture of the E. coli followed by testing the bioenergetic responses of captured bacteria would qualitatively determine the presence of viable E. coli O157:H7. When applied, the developed procedure could easily detect the presence of less than one CFU of the E. coli per gram of beef hamburg after a 6‐h enrichment at 37C.
RAPID MICROBIAL GROWTH ON POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYL AND ITS FATE IN CELLS
Authors: HAMDY M.K , LIN Y.C. , TOLEDO R.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Nine cultures were examined for growth at 37C in media with different levels of PCB and selected one culture to treat an industrial liquid waste containing high levels of PCB 1248. All the nine cultures grew well in the presence of 100 to 500 μg PCB 1254 mL−1 glucose basal salt broth (GBSB) as well as in tryptic soy broth (TSP) with no significant changes in generation time. The cultures grew well in basal salt agar containing PCB as sole source of carbon. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia liquefaciens strains survived for 75 to 120 min in the presence of 300 to 2000 μg PCB 1254 mL−1 sodium‐phosphate buffer (SPB) pH 7.0. The P. aeruginosa cells removed both PCB 1254 and 14C‐PCB from SPB and GBSB within 48 h and the percent uptakes were 26 and 39.7%, respectively. The results of the fate and distribution of PCB 1254, including 14C‐PCB, in cells of P. aeruginosa, S. liquefaciens, and two Bacillus strains grown in PCB‐media showed that more than 50% of the 14C‐PCB were in the alcohol and in alcohol‐ether soluble fractions (mostly lipids). This was also confirmed after rupturing the P. aeruginosa cells using French pressure and/or lysozyme and fractionation. Both the intrinsic flora and P. aeruginosa strain were used in a bioreactor system for the treatments of 27 and 33 gallons industrial liquid waste containing 150 and/or 800 mg PCB 12481 1−1, respectively, and complete oxidation was achieved, within approximately 150 days and the biological half‐life of the PCB was 30 and 15 days, respectively.
DEVELOPMENT OF A PCR ASSAY FOR DETECTION OF SPORE‐FORMING BACTERIA
Authors: ARCURI EDNA F. , WIEDMANN MARTIN , BOOR KATHRYN J.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Degenerate PCR primers were designed based on the published nucleotide sequences of the sporulation sigma factor ***oE (spoIIGB) from Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Clostridium acetobutylicum. The primer set was used in a Hot Start Touch Down‐PCR to screen for the presence of the target gene in both spore‐forming (eight Bacillus species, eight Clostridium species, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Thermoanaerobacterium thermosaccharolyticum, Moorella thermoacetica) and in nonspore‐forming bacteria. Under optimized PCR conditions, all spore‐forming bacteria tested yielded a PCR product of the expected size (∼360bp), although the nonspore‐forming Listeria monocytogenes and Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis also yielded PCR products of this approximate size. To improve the specificity and sensitivity of this assay, we Southern blotted gel electrophoresis‐separated PCR products with a digoxigenin‐labeled B. subtilis spoIIGB probe. This probe hybridized with the ∼ 360 bp PCR product from all spore‐forming species but did not hybridize with PCR products of this approximate size from any nonspore‐forming bacteria. The PCR‐Southern blot assay was 100 to 1,000‐fold more sensitive than PCR alone, yielding a lower detection limit of approximately 3 CFU spore‐forming bacteria/PCR reaction. We conclude that, based on amplicon size and Southern hybridization, this strategy provides a viable approach for detecting spore‐forming bacteria.
GROWTH RESPONSE AND RECOVERY IN SELECTIVE MEDIA OF A LYSINE AUXOTROPH ESCHERICHIA COLI FOR A RAPID MICROBIOLOGICAL ASSAY
Authors: DÍAZ I.B. ZABALA , ERICKSON A.M. , RICKE S.C.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Human foods and animal feeds vary in their amino acid availability based upon the nature of the protein source and subsequent processing treatments to which the source may have been subjected during manufacture. In this study, growth and recovery of an Escherichia coli lysine auxotroph assay organism was tested in the presence of an antibiotic and antifungal supplemented medium previously developed. Overall growth rate comparisons in amended liquid minimal media showed that addition of antistatic agents did not alter the growth rate of the indicator strain and that it is independent of lysine concentration. Six different animal feeds were studied to determine the potential background contribution of indigenous feed Escherichia coli and whether the selective medium would suppress these organisms. Recovery of the indicator strain used for the rapid bacterial lysine assay was above 94% in all feed suspensions. In addition to this, indigenous microflora of the animal feeds was unable to grow in the presence of the antistatic agents selected. Microbial growth measured as agar plate colonies from short (1 week) and long term storage (6 months) feeds were completely suppressed on the antibiotic supplemented plates after 24 h of incubation. This result confirms that the amendments will suppress the growth of indigenous feed E. coli populations during the time frame typically used to conduct the rapid bacterial lysine assay with the E. coli lysine auxotroph without altering the growth rate response of the auxotroph.
COMPARISON OF MINIMAL MEDIA AND INOCULUM CONCENTRATION TO DECREASE THE LYSINE GROWTH ASSAY RESPONSE TIME OF AN ESCHERICHIA COLI LYSINE AUXOTROPH MUTANT
Authors: LI X. , ERICKSON A.M. , RICKE S.C.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Microbiological assays involving an Escherichia coli lysine auxotroph have been developed previously for the estimation of lysine bioavailability. To facilitate routine use of an auxotrophic E. coli lysine mutant for a microbial assay, our objectives in this study were to improve the assay with respect to shortening the assay time via increasing inoculum levels, and examine two different minimal media, a minimal salts medium (M9) and a more extensively supplemented minimal medium (DM). The maximum optical density (MOD) response of the E. coli in M9 medium was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than the MOD in the DM medium. However, the time to reach MOD in M9 medium was significantly (p < 0.05) shortened when compared to the time in the DM medium. The total assay time was also significantly shortened from a mean time 13.98 h to 8.19 h by using higher inoculum levels. The results from the study indicated that the E. coli lysine auxotroph bioassay time is shortened by cultivation of the assay bacteria in a more minimal medium and utilization of a more concentrated inocula.
INTEGRATION OF HYDROXYAPATITE CONCENTRATION OF BACTERIA AND SEMINESTED PCR TO ENHANCE DETECTION OF SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM FROM GROUND BEEF AND BOVINE CARCASS SPONGE SAMPLES
Authors: BERRY ELAINE D. , SIRAGUSA GREGORY R.
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Hydroxyapatite (HA) concentration of bacteria from ground beef and bovine carcass sponge samples was examined as a method to enhance the PCR detection of Salmonella typhimurium in these samples. Ground beef and carcass sponge samples were inoculated with progressively lower levels of S. typhimurium. Concentrated (10% HA) and unconcentrated samples were prepared for PCR after 0, 2, 3, or 4 h of nonselective enrichment. Without HA concentration and enrichment, Salmonella in ground beef was not detected by seminested PCR, even when present at levels of 105 cells/mL in the 1:10 ground beef homogenates. However, when bacteria in these samples were extracted with HA, limits of detection in nonenriched samples were 102‐103 CFU/mL and in enriched samples were 101 CFU/mL (after 2 and 3 h enrichment) and 100 CFU/mL (after 4 h enrichment). Without concentration or enrichment, the limit of detection of Salmonella in carcass sponge samples was 103 cells/mL. HA concentration of these samples lowered this limit to 100 – 101 CFU/mL. Nine of 14 different Salmonella serotypes adhered to HA at proportions of 98.0% or more.
Carry‐Over Effects of the Membrane Interface Probe
Authors: Bumberger Jan , Radny Dirk , Berndsen Andreas , Goblirsch Tobias , Flachowsky Johannes , Dietrich Peter
Published: November 2011

The membrane interface probe (MIP) is widely used to characterize the subsurface distribution of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). One problem that arises during MIP application is that disproportionately high MIP signals are obtained after passing source zones which contain mobile or residual phases. This serious problem occurs because of a carry‐over effect, in particular caused by compound‐specific retention times in the conventional unheated transfer line, commonly used during such an investigation. The objective of this study was to perform a qualitative methodical field evaluation of the carry‐over effect of a conventional MIP system with a conventional unheated transfer line. This was achieved by coupling a mobile mass spectrometer to the MIP device. Results obtained were then further compared with those achieved using a laser induced fluorescence (LIF) system. Because of this coupling, time‐ and depth‐dependent signals for different substances became known. Field evaluation data obtained showed complex superpositions of compounds with MIP system results. As a result of this superposition, MIP signals from the saturated zone beneath the source zone (zone with free and/or residual phase) are blurred and are therefore not representative of particular depths. However, utilizing multidirectional probing alongside conventional MIP probing (forwards and backwards), it was possible to detect the upper and lower phase boundary of the source zone. These MIP results correlated excellently with the LIF results. An important conclusion that can be drawn from the field investigation is that coupling a mobile mass spectrometer to the MIP system enables advanced MIP signal interpretation to be successfully achieved.
Bifunctional μ/δ Opioid Peptides: Variation of the Type and Length of the Linker Connecting the Two Components
Authors: Ding Jinguo , Lemieux Carole , Chung Nga N. , Schiller Peter W.
Published: November 2011

On the basis of evidence that opioid compounds with a mixed μ agonist/δ antagonist profile may produce an antinociceptive effect with low propensity to induce side effects, bifunctional opioid peptides containing the μ agonist H‐Dmt‐d‐Arg‐Phe‐Lys‐NH2 ([Dmt1]DALDA; Dmt = 2′,6′‐dimethyltyrosine) connected tail‐to‐tail via various α,ω‐diaminoalkyl‐ or diaminocyclohexane linkers to the δ antagonists H‐Tyr‐TicΨ[CH2‐NH]Cha‐Phe‐OH (TICP[Ψ]; Cha = cyclohexylalanine, Tic = 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinoline‐3‐carboxylic acid), H‐Dmt‐Tic‐OH or H‐Bcp‐Tic‐OH (Bcp = 4′‐[N‐((4′‐phenyl)phenethyl)carboxamido]phenylalanine) were synthesized and pharmacologically characterized in vitro. Bifunctional [Dmt1]DALDA→NH‐(CH2)n‐NH←TICP[Ψ] compounds (n = 0–12) showed decreasing μ and δ receptor binding affinities with increasing linker length. As expected, several of the bifunctional peptides were μ agonist/δ antagonists with low nanomolar μ and δ receptor binding affinities. However, compounds with unexpected opioid activity profiles, including a μ partial agonist/δ partial agonist, μ antagonist/δ antagonists and μ agonist/δ agonists, were also identified. These results indicate that the binding affinities and intrinsic efficacies of these bifunctional compounds at both receptors depend on the length and type of the linker connecting the μ and δ components. An important recommendation emerging from this study is that the in vitro activity profiles of bifunctional compounds containing an agonist and an antagonist component connected via a linker need to be determined prior to their pharmacological evaluation in vivo.
Chemical Quality of Bottled Waters: A Review
Authors: Diduch Malwina , Polkowska Żaneta , Namieśnik Jacek
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Bottled water has become very popular for quenching thirst and as a dietary (mineral) supplement. The plethora of natural mineral waters precludes any unequivocal system of classification, which makes it difficult for the consumer to choose a water with properties that suits him/her exactly. The ever‐increasing popularity of bottled waters means that it is of the utmost importance to determine not only their mineral content, but above all, the content of possible contaminants, especially organic ones. In this respect bottled waters are a special case, because apart from organic contamination from the environment, the water may become secondarily contaminated as a result of its being improperly transported and stored. Pesticides, volatile organic compounds, and carbonyl compounds have been detected in samples of bottled water. This overview shows the available published information on levels of inorganic constituents and organic contaminants in samples of bottled water in the context of sample preparation procedures and analytical techniques.
Flour Mill Stream Blending Affects Sugar Snap Cookie and Japanese Sponge Cake Quality and Oxidative Cross‐Linking Potential of Soft White Wheat
Authors: Ramseyer Daniel D. , Bettge Arthur D. , Morris Craig F.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The purpose of this research was to study the functional differences between straight grade (75% extraction rate) and patent (60% extraction rate) flour blends from 28 genetically pure soft white and club wheat grain lots, as evidenced by variation in sugar snap cookie and Japanese sponge cake quality. Functional differences were examined relative to arabinoxylan content, protein content, and oxidative cross‐linking potential of flour slurries. Oxidative cross‐linking measurements were obtained on flour slurries with a low shear Bostwick consistometer and considered endogenous oxidative cross‐linking potential (water alone) or enhanced oxidative cross‐linking potential (with added hydrogen peroxide‐peroxidase). A 2‐way ANOVA indicated that flour blend was the greater source of variation compared to grain lot for all response variables except water‐extractable arabinoxylan content. Patent flours produced larger sugar snap cookies and Japanese sponge cakes, and contained significantly less total and water‐unextractable arabinoxylans, protein, and ash than did straight grade flours. Patent flours produced more viscous slurries for endogenous and enhanced cross‐linking measurements compared to the straight grade flours. The functional differences between patent and straight grade flours appear to be related to the particular mill streams that were utilized in the formulation of the 2 flour blends and compositional differences among those streams.
Sandwich Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for Detection of Cashew Nut in Foods
Authors: Gaskin Ferdelie E. , Taylor Steve L.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The presence of undeclared cashew can pose a health risk to cashew‐allergic consumers. The food industry has the responsibility to declare the presence of cashews on packaged foods even when trace residues are or might be present. The objective of this study was to develop a rapid, sensitive, and specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of cashew residues. Raw and roasted cashews were defatted and used separately to immunize sheep, goats, and rabbits. The cashew ELISA was developed using sheep and rabbit polyclonal anti‐roasted cashew sera as capture and detector reagents, respectively, with visualization through an alkaline phosphatase‐mediated substrate reaction. The cashew ELISA was shown to have a limit of quantification of 1 ppm (1 μg cashew/g). The ELISA was highly specific except that substantial cross‐reactivity was noted with pistachio and a lesser degree of cross‐reactivity was noted with hazelnut. The performance of the ELISA was assessed by manufacturing cookies, ice cream, and milk chocolate with added known amounts (0 to 1000 ppm) of cashew. The mean percent recoveries for ice cream, cookies, and milk chocolate were 118%± 2.9%, 84.3%± 4.0%, and 104%± 3.0%, respectively. In a limited retail survey, 4/5 retail samples with cashew declared on ingredient labels tested positive for cashew compared to 5/36 samples of foods with precautionary labels indicating the possible presence of one or more tree nuts and 0/18 samples without cashew declared on the label in any manner. The cashew ELISA can be used to detect undeclared cashew residue in foods and as a potential tool for the food industry to assess the effectiveness of allergen control strategies and to guarantee compliance with food labeling regulatory requirements.
Changes of Polyphenols, Sugars, and Organic Acid in 5 Vitis Genotypes during Berry Ripening
Authors: Liang Zhenchang , Sang Min , Fan Peige , Wu Benhong , Wang Lijun , Duan Wei , Li Shaohua
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The concentrations of sugars, organic acids, and polyphenols during berry ripening in 5 grape genotypes were analyzed using HPLC and HPLC‐MS to determine which were correlated. Veraison is critical stage during grape berry development, and marks the beginning of ripening. Glucose and fructose accumulated sharply in a 1 : 1 ratio, though the concentration of fructose was slightly higher than that of glucose at maturation. Malic acid and tartaric acid were the dominant organic acids, and they decreased rapidly during berry ripening. The 5 cultivars contained 28 anthocyanins and 8 other polyphenols. All anthocyanins accumulated and were positively correlated with the sugars and negatively correlated with the organic acids. Hydroxycinnamic acids declined and were positively correlated with anthocyanin contents. Changes in flavanols and flavonols different among the 5 genotypes, with flavonols positively correlated with anthocyanin content, but the flavanols procyanidin B1 and epicatechin negatively correlated with anthocyanins content. There were obvious differences in patterns of change of polyphenols among 5 grape genotypes.

Practical Application:  The results could be used for improving grape berry quality during ripening and developing a comprehensive database of primary and secondary metabolites in the Vitis for grape breeding.
Evaluation of Selected Quality Parameters to Monitor Essential Oil Alteration during Storage
Authors: Turek Claudia , Stintzing Florian C.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Several analytical methods including high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were applied on essential oils to establish a set of suitable quality parameters for monitoring changes during storage. For this purpose, 7 essential oils derived from various plant families were exposed to possible worst‐case conditions for up to 3 mo at 38 °C under cool white light in the presence of atmospheric oxygen. After storage and immediate freezing at –80 °C to stop further alterations until analysis, individual physicochemical parameters were assessed and are discussed with regard to the precision of the respective method as well as suitability to monitor aging processes. To determine conductivity and pH values, a work‐up of essential oils by water extraction was established. Conductivity, peroxide value as well as pH turned out to be suitable parameters to picture alterations. Additionally, HPLC fingerprints were monitored by diode array detection to track underlying chemical changes in essential oil composition.

Practical Application:  This study evaluates a set of analytical parameters to track changes during essential oil storage. On this basis, quality alterations can be monitored.
High Pressure Homogenization Increases the In Vitro Bioaccessibility of α‐ and β‐Carotene in Carrot Emulsions But Not of Lycopene in Tomato Emulsions
Authors: Svelander Cecilia A. , Lopez‐Sanchez Patricia , Pudney Paul D.A. , Schumm Stephan , Alminger Marie A.G.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The correlation between food microstructure and in vitro bioaccessibility of carotenes was evaluated for tomato and carrot emulsions (5% olive oil) subjected to high pressure homogenization (HPH) at varying degrees of intensity. The aim was to investigate whether additional mechanical disruption of the food matrix could be utilized to further increase the carotene bioaccessibility of an already pre‐processed material. The carotene bioaccessibility of the samples was measured after simulated in vitro digestion, carotene release to the oil phase was estimated by Confocal Raman spectroscopy and, to measure active uptake of carotenes, Caco‐2 cells were incubated with the digesta of selected samples. HPH did not notably affect the retention of carotenes or ascorbic acid but significantly increased both the release and micellar incorporation of α‐ and β‐carotene in carrot emulsions 1.5‐ to 1.6‐fold. On the other hand, in vitro bioaccessibility of lycopene from tomato was not increased by HPH under any of the conditions investigated. Instead, the results suggested that lycopene bioaccessibility was limited by a combination of the low solubility of lycopene in dietary lipids and entrapment in the cellular network. Carotene uptake by Caco‐2 cells appeared to be mainly dependent upon the carotene concentration of the digesta, but cis‐trans isomerization had a significant impact on the micellarization efficiency of carotenes. We therefore conclude that HPH is an interesting option for increasing the bioaccessibility of carotenes from fruits and vegetables while maintaining a high nutrient content, but that the results will depend on both food source and type of carotene.

Practical Application:  A better understanding of the correlation between the processing of fruits and vegetables, microstructure and nutrient bioaccessibility can be directly applied in the production of food products with an increased nutritional value.
Changes in Textural Properties of Japanese Tenobe Somen Noodles during Storage
Authors: Katagiri Mina , Masuda Tetsuya , Tani Fumito , Kitabatake Naofumi
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Tenobe somen (TS) noodles are traditional Japanese wheat‐based noodles that are produced manually using a sophisticated method called tenobe (literally, “hand stretched”). In the tension test, both the tensile strength and extensibility of TS noodles were greater than those of machine‐made (MS) noodles. In the biting test, the chewy texture of TS noodles was realized in the analysis of the force‐deformation curves of each type of somen noodles. The creep test indicated a clear difference between the external and internal elasticity of TS noodles. The texture of TS noodles appeared to change dramatically during storage in the rainy season. In addition, firm and chewy textures of TS noodles stored for 20 mo were observed. Similar to the results from our previous study, TS noodles exhibited significantly higher dityrosine content than the flour used for their manufacture. However, the increase in the dityrosine content during the manufacturing process was not observed in the case of MS noodles. Although clear textural differences were observed between TS noodles stored for 0 and 20 mo, the dityrosine contents of TS noodles at each stage were not largely different.
Comparative GC/MS Analysis of Essential Oils Extracted by 3 Methods from the Bud of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara Engl
Authors: Jiang Ming‐Hua , Yang Li , Zhu Liang , Piao Jin‐Hua , Jiang Jian‐Guo
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  A comparative study of steam distillation extraction (SDE), reflux extraction (RE), and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (USE) was conducted for the extraction of essential oils from the bud of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara Engl. Each method was evaluated in terms of qualitative and quantitative composition of the isolated essential oil by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The extract yields of essential oil were 0.16%, 2.18%, and 2.34%, respectively. A total of 82 compounds were identified by GC/MS. The main components obtained by SDE were terpinen‐4‐ol (20.98%), dipentene (11.67%), terpinene (9.24%), those by RE were palmitic acid (20.61%), 2‐chloroethyl linoleate (14.54%), tetracosane (12.26%), and α‐linolenic acid (11.24%), and those by USE were tetracosane (11.32%), heneicosane (11.06%), and palmitic acid (8.76%). Comparative analysis indicated that SDE was favorable for the extraction of monoterpene hydrocarbons, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, alcohols, and carbonyl compounds, RE and USE had certain advantages in the extraction of aliphatic saturated hydrocarbons, organic acids, and esters. It is concluded that different extraction methods may lead to different yields of essential oils; the choice of appropriate method is very important to obtain more desired components with higher physiological activities.

Practical Application:  C. aurantium oils from different plant parts have great economic, medicinal, and nutritional values because of their wide‐spectrum biological activities. The essential oil from C. aurantium L. var amara is one of the best C. aurantium oils. The data presented in this article will help us understand the relationship between essential oils and its extraction methods and know more about the aromatic components of Citrus aurantium bud. The methods established in this study will provide useful reference information for further studies, and offer essential oil industries with helpful guidance in practice.