bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short rDNA Barcodes for Species Identification in Foraminifera
Authors: PAWLOWSKI JAN , LECROQ BEATRICE
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT.Ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences have been shown to be very useful for identification of microbial eukaryotes. Usually, complete or long partial sequences of the rDNA genes are analysed. However, the development of new massive sequencing technologies producing a large amount of relatively short sequences raises the question about the minimum length of rDNA fragments necessary for species distinction in environmental sampling. To answer this question, we compared six variable regions of the small subunit (SSU) rDNA of foraminifera, known to have rapidly evolving ribosomal genes. For each region, we analysed (1) the sequence divergence between and within foraminiferal morphospecies, (2) the intraspecific polymorphism, and (3) the ability of each region to recognize the phylotypes inferred from analysis of a longer fragment. Our results show that although the variable regions differ considerably between taxonomic groups, most of them perform very well as species identifiers. Taking into account different analyses, the expansion segment of Helix 37 appears to be the best candidate for barcoding foraminifera. We propose that this relatively short region, averaging 50–60 nt in length, could be an ideal barcode for identification of foraminifera in environmental samples using massive sequencing approach.
Stoichiometric (Ni,Mg)‐Cordierite Glass–Ceramics
Authors: Miller Michelene E. , Misture Scott T.
Published: January 2010

Both the properties and crystallization behavior of xNiO· (2−x)MgO·2Al2O3·5SiO2 glasses for x=0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 are studied. The glass transition temperature and dilatometric softening temperature decrease as increasing amounts of nickel are substituted for magnesium. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the glasses is largely independent of the glass composition—the CTE for all nickel containing glasses is ca. 4.0 ppm/K, which is slightly higher than the CTE for the nickel‐free glass (ca. 3.8 ppm/K). The crystallization behavior of the glasses is studied using differential thermal analysis data and high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction data. All glasses crystallize to form a β‐quartz solid solution at the surface; this phase transforms to cordierite at higher temperatures and/or longer annealing times. The crystallization temperature of the β‐quartz is related to the occurrence of phase separation. The temperature at which β‐quartz transforms to hexagonal cordierite increases with increasing amounts of nickel. Glasses where x≥0.50 crystallize to form a spinel phase in the bulk of the glass. The spinel crystallization temperature decreases with increasing amounts of nickel substituted for magnesium. The spinel composition is dependent on the initial glass composition and crystallization temperature. Competing transformation processes (spinel in the bulk and cordierite at the surface) in glasses where x≥0.75 result in a compound activation energy value.
Lithium Insertion in Polymer‐Derived Silicon Oxycarbide Ceramics
Authors: Sanchez‐Jimenez Pedro E. , Raj Rishi
Published: January 2010

Data for the electrolytic insertion of lithium into polymer‐derived silicon oxycarbide ceramics are analyzed in terms of a nanodomain model for these ceramics. The model is constructed from three molecular building blocks: graphene, silicon dioxide tetrahedra, and mixed bond tetrahedra. In mixed bonds, the silicon atom is shared by both oxygen and carbon. The composition regime being considered is bordered by a triangle formed by C, SiO2, and SiC. Mostly, the nonstoichiometric compositions containing “free” carbon are considered. The data fit a phenomenological description where silicon‐based mixed bond tetrahedra sequester an equivalent of ∼50 000 mAh/g‐atom, while “free carbon” can sequester ∼5000 mAh/g‐atom, for the reversible portion of the lithium insertion. The compositions lying close to the SiC–C, and SiC–SiO2tie lines, however, deviate measurably from this general picture.
Histomorphologic and histomorphometric evaluation of various endosseous implant healing chamber configurations at early implantation times: a study in dogs
Authors: Marin Charles , Granato Rodrigo , Suzuki Marcelo , Gil Jose N. , Janal Malvin N. , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: January 2010

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the early healing of endosseous implants presenting various healing chamber configurations in a beagle dog mandible model.

Methods: The four premolars of 12 beagle dogs were extracted and allowed to heal for a period of 8 weeks. Implants allowing six different healing chamber configurations were placed in each dog (three per side, six configurations per dog). The animals were sacrificed after 3 and 5 weeks in vivo (n=6 per time in vivo), and the implants were non‐decalcified processed to slides of ∼30 μm thickness. Bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) and bone area fraction occupied (BAFO) within the healing chamber were quantified. Statistical analysis was performed by a GLM ANOVA model at 5% significance level.

Results: Osseointegration and healing with woven bone filling throughout all healing chambers was observed. Replacement of woven bone by lamellar bone showing primary osteonic structures was observed at 5 weeks. BIC was significantly affected by healing chamber configuration (P<0.001) and was not affected by time in vivo (P>0.42) at 3 and 5 weeks in vivo. BAFO was not affected by healing chamber configuration (P>0.14) however significantly increased over implantation time (P<0.001).

Conclusion: Regardless of healing chamber design and dimensions considered, healing allowed the devices osseointegration. However, healing chamber configuration significantly affected osseointegration measurable parameters such as BIC.

To cite this article:
 Marin C, Granato R, Suzuki M, Gil JN, Janal, MN Coelho PG. Histomorhpologic and histomorphometric evaluation of various endosseous implant healing chamber configurations at early implantation times: a study in dogs. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 577–583. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01853.x
Biological properties of a biomimetic membrane for guided tissue regeneration: a study in rat calvarial defects
Authors: Zhang Jingchao , Huang Cui , Xu Qian , Mo Anchun , Li Jidong , Zuo Yi
Published: January 2010

Objective: The biological properties of nano‐hydroxyapatite/polyamide (nHA/PA66) membrane as a guided tissue regeneration barrier were investigated based on a critical‐size calvarial defect model.

Material and methods: Thirty‐six Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups: nHA/PA66 membranes, control treated with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e‐PTFE) membranes, control treated with PA membranes and blank. Bone regeneration in each group was evaluated using morphological, serological, radiographic and histological techniques at 1, 4 and 8 weeks, respectively, post‐operation.

Results: Slight degradation of nHA/PA66 membranes was observed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at 4 and 8 weeks. The serum alkaline phosphatase level and the integral optical density of neo‐bone were significantly higher in the nHA/PA66 group than those in the PA group and blank (P<0.05). Radiographic and histological analysis showed a fully closed cranial defect for both the nHA/PA66 group and the e‐PTFE group at 8 weeks. No remarkable difference was found between the nHA/PA66 group and the e‐PTFE group at each time interval.

Conclusion: nHA/PA66 membrane promoted bone regeneration as effectively as conventional e‐PTFE membrane. Based on a rat study, nHA/PA66 membrane provides a promising alternative to e‐PTFE membrane due to the absence of requirement for a second surgery.

To cite this article:
 Zhang JC, Huang C, Xu Q, Mo AC, Li JD, Zuo Y. Biological properties of a biomimetic membrane for guided tissue regeneration: a study in rat calvarial defects. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 392–397. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01857.x
The impact of dietary advice on edentulous adults' denture satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life 6 months after intervention
Authors: Ellis Janice S. , Elfeky Ahmed F. , Moynihan Paula J. , Seal Chris , Hyland Robert M. , Thomason Mark
Published: January 2010

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the impact of customised dietary advice on patients' satisfaction with their dentures and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients wearing implant‐supported mandibular overdentures (IOD) or conventional dentures (CD).

Materials and methods: In this prospective cohort study, 28 IOD (two implant‐retained mandibular overdenture) and 26 CD patients completed a denture satisfaction scale and the 20‐item oral health impact profile (OHIP‐20) before and 6 months following provision of customised dietary advice.

Results: At 6 months following provision of individualised dietary advice, the IOD group showed significantly greater satisfaction than the conventional group for denture comfort (80.6, ± 15.6, vs. 68.7 ± 15.6 P=0.001), stability (75.8 ± 15.9 vs. 59.5 ± 30.4, P=0.002), and perceived chewing ability (79 ± 30.4 vs. 59.5 ± 30.4, P=0.027) ± when adjusted for baseline scores. Before delivery of the dietary advice there were no significant differences between groups for Satisfaction or OHIP scores. No difference in OHRQoL was seen between groups.

Conclusions: The delivery of customised dietary advice to edentulous patients impacts differently on their satisfaction with denture comfort, stability and chewing ability depending on the nature of their prosthesis. This re‐evaluation of satisfaction occurs when edentulous patients challenge themselves to consume more fruits, vegetables and fibre‐rich foods. The IOD group reported an increased level of satisfaction and perceived chewing ability whereas it appeared that CD wearers may have had their awareness of the shortcomings of this sort of prosthesis reawakened.

To cite this article:
 Ellis JS, Elfeky AF, Moynihan PJ, Seal C, Hyland RM, Thomason M. The impact of dietary advice on edentulous adults' denture satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life 6 months after intervention. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 386–391. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01859.x
Severe idiopathic erythroblastic synartesis: successful treatment with the anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab
Authors: Papakonstantinou Georgios , Loeffler Helmut , Haferlach Torsten , Brugger Wolfram
Published: January 2010

Erythroblastic synartesis is a very rare disorder, considered to be caused by autoimmune mechanisms, leading to aggregation of erythroid precursor cells in the bone marrow and subsequently to acquired dyserythropoiesis with severe, transfusion‐dependent anemia. An association with lymphoproliferative or autoimmune diseases has been reported or strongly suggested in all six published cases. Here, we report a young patient with severe idiopathic erythroblastic synartesis without an underlying disease, who was successfully treated with rituximab, an anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody. The patient received rituximab at a dose of 375 mg/m2 once weekly for 4 wk after failure of both immunosuppressive therapies with corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins. At a follow‐up of 30 months after treatment, the patient is still in continuous complete remission without any further treatment, suggesting that rituximab may induce prolonged remissions and eventually cure in this rare disease.
Atopic eczema or atopiform dermatitis
Authors: Bos Jan D. , Brenninkmeijer Elian E.A. , Schram Mandy E. , Middelkamp‐Hup Maritza A. , Spuls Phyllis I. , Smitt J. Henk Sillevis
Published: January 2010

Please cite this paper as: Atopic eczema or atopiform dermatitis. Experimental Dermatology 2010.

Abstract:  Age period prevalence of atopic eczema (AE), a very common skin disease, has increased during the past decennia. This expansion seems to be ending in wealthy countries, while an increase is observed in developing nations, for which there is no firm explanation. Recent steps in understanding AE are the detection of skin barrier related filaggrin null mutations in approximately 25% of patients and the recognition of IL‐31 as a molecule possibly involved in the itch (pruritus). Also interesting are the recognition of thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC) and proliferating‐inducing ligand (APRIL), as being associated with AE severity and activity. Immunocentric and corneocentric views on pathogenesis (the inside‐outside paradigm) and the diagnostic entity atopiform dermatitis (AFD) are discussed here. We emphasize that diagnosing AE is not simple but challenging. We accentuate that a diagnosis of AE is only possible when there is allergen‐specific IgE. Advice as to the need for elimination of allergens and adjustment of lifestyle are only proficient in patients having atopy and true AE, not in those having AFD.
Heparanase activation induces epidermal hyperplasia, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and wrinkles
Authors: Iriyama Shunsuke , Matsunaga Yukiko , Amano Satoshi
Published: January 2010

Please cite this paper as: Heparanase activation induces epidermal hyperplasia, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and wrinkles. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 965–972.

Abstract:  To clarify the difference between cutaneous responses to single and repeated barrier disruption, changes of epidermal gene expression were examined by using RT‐PCR. In repeatedly barrier‐disrupted skin, heparanase was specifically up‐regulated in epidermis. In addition, there was a marked decrease in heparan sulfate (HS) chains of perlecan in basement membrane at the dermal–epidermal junction (DEJ) compared with singly disrupted skin. HS chains form a reservoir for heparan sulfate‐binding growth factors. In repeatedly barrier‐disrupted skin, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGF‐A), an angiogenic factor, was induced in epidermis, whereas thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1), an angiogenesis inhibitor, was down‐regulated, and concomitantly blood vessels were elongated and enlarged in dermis. Expression of VEGF‐C, a lymphangiogenesis factor, was augmented in epidermis of repeatedly barrier‐disrupted skin, concomitantly with an increase in the number and size of lymphatic vessels. Topical application of a synthetic heparanase inhibitor, 1‐[4‐(1H‐benzoimidazol‐2‐yl)phenyl]‐3‐[4‐(1H‐benzoimidazol‐2‐yl)phenyl]urea, to skin after barrier disruption significantly suppressed wrinkle formation, degradation of HS chains in the basement membrane, epidermal hyperplasia and the changes of blood and lymphatic vessels. These results suggest that chronic barrier disruption activates heparanase and induces gene expression changes, leading to increased growth factor interaction between epidermis and dermis, and facilitating various cutaneous changes, including wrinkle formation.
Alopecia in IL‐10‐deficient mouse pups is c‐kit‐dependent and can be triggered by iron deficiency
Authors: Vanderford Deborah A. , Greer Paula K. , Sharp Julie M. , Chichlowski Maciej , Clayburn Rouse D. , Angelica Selim M. , Hale Laura P.
Published: January 2010

Please cite this paper as: Alopecia in IL‐10‐deficient mouse pups is c‐kit‐dependent and can be triggered by iron deficiency. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 518–526.

Abstract:  Hair loss (alopecia) can result from a variety of metabolic, endocrine, immunologic, and environmental causes. This investigation was undertaken to determine the mechanisms underlying the sporadic development of alopecia in litters from C57BL/6 interleukin‐10‐deficient (Il10−/−) mice. All pups in affected litters demonstrated alopecia by postnatal days 17–19, with hair loss from their trunks but not from their head, base of tail, or feet. Histopathology revealed distorted hair follicles containing broken hair shafts and prominent dermal infiltrates containing increased numbers of activated mast cells. Hair re‐growth began soon after weaning, suggesting that the alopecia was triggered by factors transmitted during lactation. Milk from Il10−/− dams induced macrophage secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in vitro regardless of whether or not their pups developed alopecia. Feeding dams a diet containing 3–6 ppm iron increased the percentage of litters with alopecia to 100% for pups with mast cells, with 0% alopecia in mast cell‐deficient pups. When dams were fed a diet containing 131 ppm iron, significantly lower haemoglobin and hematocrit values were observed in pups from litters with alopecia (71%; 5 of 7 litters) compared to litters without alopecia. Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of c‐kit that resulted in depletion of mast cells in pups prevented hair loss in at‐risk litters. These studies demonstrate that maternal iron‐restricted diets enhance the incidence of alopecia in IL‐10‐deficient mouse pups and suggest mast cells as potential effector cells. Further studies are indicated to further explore the mechanisms involved and to determine how mast cells may contribute to alopecia in humans.
Detection and identification of rumen bacteria constituting a fibrolytic consortium dominated by Fibrobacter succinogenes
Authors: SHINKAI Takumi , UEKI Takaaki , KOBAYASHI Yasuo
Published: January 2010

A fibrolytic consortium, dominated by the rumen cellulolytic bacterium Fibrobacter succinogenes, was artificially constructed on hay stems to detect and identify rumen bacteria that can potentially interact with F. succinogenes. Consortium‐bacterial members were determined by DGGE and sequencing analysis targeted bacterial 16S rDNA. An artificial consortium was formed in a 2‐step incubation of hay stems; the first step with group 1, 2 or 3 F. succinogenes strains, the second step with rumen fluid. After consortium formation, morphologically different bacteria were observed in association with F. succinogenes. DGGE exhibited more than 30 bands, the pattern of which depended on the F. succinogenes group. Sequencing suggested that Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, Pseudobutyrivibrio ruminis, Clostridium sp., F. succinogenes group 2, Prevotella ruminicola and unclassified Bacteroides were prominent in the group 1 consortium and that Treponema bryantii, B. fibrisolvens, Acinetobacter sp, and Wolinella succinogenes were prominent in the group 2 consortium. However, in the group 3 consortium, F. succinogenes‐like bacteria were microscopically undetectable, whereas cellulolytic Ruminococcus albus and F. succinogenes group 1 were prominent, suggesting that the group 3 cannot be a core member of this consortium. This study is the first attempt to identify bacterial members of a fibrolytic consortium dominated by a specific bacterium.
Collagen content and architecture of the pectoralis muscle in male chicks and broilers reared under various nutritional conditions
Authors: DAS Chamali , ROY Bimol Chandra , OSHIMA Ichiro , MIYACHI Hideyuki , NISHIMURA Shotaro , IWAMOTO Hisao , TABATA Shoji
Published: January 2010

Varying chicken growth rates were induced with different nutritional regimes, and the collagen content and architecture of M. pectoralis (PT) were compared among 21‐day‐old chicks and broilers at 80 or 95 days of age. The percentage of muscle weight to live weight was higher in rapid growing chicks (8.4%) than slow growing chicks (6.3%). The 80‐day‐old broilers engaged in compensatory growth after the early slow growth period producing PT muscle at 11% of live weight. The 80‐ and 95‐day‐old chicks with restricted late growth after an early rapid growth period showed PT weight at 8% and 9% of live weight, respectively. Collagen content of the PT muscle markedly decreased from the chicks to the broilers. The collagen concentration was higher in the late‐growth restricted broilers (1.67–1.88 mg/g) than the compensatory growth broilers (1.01–1.10 mg/g). Collagen concentration did not differ between the rapid and slow growing chicks (2.72 and 2.94 mg/g). Scanning electron micrographs showed thick and thin perimysia, and honeycomb endomysia. In the perimysia, a stack layer of collagen platelets and a reticular layer of collagen fiber cords were distinguished and collagen baskets of adipocytes were observed. The perimysial collagen fibers became thicker during growth of the chicks to broilers. However, in the late‐growth restricted broilers, the perimysial collagen fibers seemed to have retarded development compared with the compensatory growth birds. The PT muscle of chickens develops optimally when body growth is enhanced. The PT muscle of the compensatory growth broilers had improved collagen architecture regardless of the marked decrease in collagen content.
Effects of glucose and amino acids on ghrelin secretion in sheep
Authors: SUGINO Toshihisa , KAWAKITA Yuko , FUKUMORI Rika , HASEGAWA Yoshihisa , KOJIMA Masayasu , KANGAWA Kenji , OBITSU Taketo , TANIGUCHI Kohzo
Published: January 2010

Two experiments were conducted to elucidate the effects of post‐ruminal administration of starch and casein (Exp. 1), plasma amino acids concentrations (Exp. 2), and plasma glucose and insulin concentrations (Exp. 2) on plasma ghrelin concentrations in sheep. In Exp. 1, plasma ghrelin concentrations were determined by four infusion treatments (water, cornstarch, casein and cornstarch plus casein) in four wethers. Abomasal infusion of casein increased plasma α‐amino N (AAN) concentrations. Infusion of starch or casein alone did not affect plasma ghrelin concentrations, but starch plus casein infusion increased plasma levels of ghrelin, glucose and AAN. In Exp 2, we investigated the effects of saline or amino acids on ghrelin secretion in four wethers. Two hours after the initiation of saline or amino acid infusion into the jugular vein, glucose was also continuously infused to investigate the effects of blood glucose and insulin by hyper‐glycemic clump on plasma ghrelin concentrations. Infusion of amino acids alone raised plasma levels of ghrelin, but the higher plasma glucose and insulin concentrations had no effect on plasma ghrelin concentrations. These results suggest that high plasma levels of amino acids can stimulate ghrelin secretion, but glucose and insulin do not affect ghrelin secretion in sheep.
Recent insights into cerebral cavernous malformations: the molecular genetics of CCM
Authors: Riant Florence , Bergametti Francoise , Ayrignac Xavier , Boulday Gwenola , Tournier‐Lasserve Elisabeth
Published: January 2010

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) are vascular lesions which can occur as a sporadic (80% of the cases) or familial autosomal dominant form (20%). Three CCM genes have been identified: CCM1/KRIT1, CCM2/MGC4607 and CCM3/PDCD10. Almost 80% of CCM patients affected with a genetic form of the disease harbor a heterozygous germline mutation in one of these three genes. Recent work has shown that a two‐hit mechanism is involved in CCM pathogenesis which is caused by a complete loss of any of the three CCM proteins within endothelial cells lining the cavernous capillary cavities. These data were an important step towards the elucidation of the mechanisms of this condition.
Recent insights into cerebral cavernous malformations: animal models of CCM and the human phenotype
Authors: Chan Aubrey C. , Li Dean Y. , Berg Michel J. , Whitehead Kevin J.
Published: January 2010

Cerebral cavernous malformations are common vascular lesions of the central nervous system that predispose to seizures, focal neurologic deficits and potentially fatal hemorrhagic stroke. Human genetic studies have identified three genes associated with the disease and biochemical studies of these proteins have identified interaction partners and possible signaling pathways. A variety of animal models of CCM have been described to help translate the cellular and biochemical insights into a better understanding of disease mechanism. In this minireview, we discuss the contributions of animal models to our growing understanding of the biology of cavernous malformations, including the elucidation of the cellular context of CCM protein actions and the in vivo confirmation of abnormal endothelial cell–cell interactions. Challenges and progress towards developing a faithful model of CCM biology are reviewed.
Recent insights into cerebral cavernous malformations: a complex jigsaw puzzle under construction
Authors: Faurobert Eva , Albiges‐Rizo Corinne
Published: January 2010

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) are common vascular malformations with an unpredictable risk of hemorrhage, the consequences of which range from headache to stroke or death. Three genes, CCM1, CCM2 and CCM3, have been linked to the disease. The encoded CCM proteins interact with each other within a large protein complex. Within the past 2 years, a plethora of new data has emerged on the signaling pathways in which CCM proteins are involved. CCM proteins regulate diverse aspects of endothelial cell morphogenesis and blood vessel stability such as cell–cell junctions, cell shape and polarity, or cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix. Although fascinating, a global picture is hard to depict because little is known about how these pathways coordinate to orchestrate angiogenesis. Here we present what is known about the structural domain organization of CCM proteins, their association as a ternary complex and their subcellular localization. Numerous CCM partners have been identified using two‐hybrid screens, genetic analyses or proteomic studies. We focus on the best‐characterized partners and review data on the signaling pathways they regulate as a step towards a better understanding of the etiology of CCM disease.
Improving the Cyclic‐Oxidation Resistance of Ti3AlC2at 550°C and 650°C by Preoxidation at 1100°C
Authors: Qian Xukun , He Xiaodong , Li Yibin , Sun Yue , Zhu Chuncheng
Published: January 2010

Preoxidation of Ti3AlC2at 1100°C for 2 h was conducted to improve its cyclic‐oxidation resistance at the testing temperature of 550°C and 650°C in air. The cyclic oxidation of the preoxidized Ti3AlC2was found to follow a parabolic rate law rather than the linear oxidation rate for that without preoxidation. Through the X‐ray diffraction and SEM analysis, the remarkable improvement of the cyclic‐oxidation resistance of preoxidation Ti3AlC2is suggested due to the existence of protective α‐Al2O3layers formed during the preoxidation treatment, which inhibits the formation of amorphous Al2O3, which can result in larger thermal stress and stress‐induced microcracks.
Polymer–Ceramic Composites of 0–3 Connectivity for Circuits in Electronics: A Review
Authors: Sebastian Mailadil T. , Jantunen Heli
Published: January 2010

Composite technology, where a novel artificial material is fabricated by combining, for example, ceramic and polymer materials in an ordered manner or just by mixing, was earlier used widely for sonar, medical diagnostics, and NDT purposes. However, in recent decades, large numbers of ceramic–polymer composites have been introduced for telecommunication and microelectronic applications. For these purposes, composites of 0–3 connectivity (a three‐dimensionally connected polymer phase is loaded with isolated ceramic particles) are the most attractive from the application point of view. Composites of 0–3 connectivity enable flexible forms and very different shapes with very inexpensive fabrication methods including simply mixing and molding. In this brief review, we gather together the research carried out within 0–3 ceramic–polymer composites for microwave substrates, also including embedded capacitor, inductor, or microwave‐absorbing performances.
DEVELOPMENT OF A PREDICTIVE MODEL DESCRIBING THE GROWTH OF CRONOBACTER SAKAZAKII IN RECONSTITUTED POWDERED INFANT MILK FORMULA
Authors: JO SEO‐HEE , HEO SUN‐KYUNG , HA SANG‐DO
Published: January 2010

Cronobacter sakazakii has been associated most frequently with illness in neonates, so a mathematical model was developed to predict the growth rate of C. sakazakii in infant milk based on temperature. Reconstituted powdered infant milk formulas (RIMFs) inoculated with C. sakazakii were incubated at 10, 20, 30 and 40C. The primary model showed a good fit (r2 = 0.9613–0.999) to a Gompertz equation to obtain growth rates and lag times (LTs) at each temperature.

The specific growth rate (SGR) of C. sakazakii in the RIMF increased, and the LT decreased with increasing temperature. A secondary polynomial model was developed using SAS general linear analysis software. The secondary model was “ln SGR = −0.06581 + (0.00575 × temperature) + (0.00039 × temperature2).” The SGR predicted using this model increased with an increasing temperature. This secondary polynomial model was judged as appropriate based on the mean square error (MSE of the SGR model = 0.0002), the coefficient of determination (r2 of the SGR model = 0.9975), the bias factor (Bf of the SGR model = 1.0375) and the accuracy factor (Af of the SGR model = 1.0724). Reliable prediction of C. sakazakii growth rates in RIMF was based on temperature.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Predictive models allow quantitative estimation of microorganism growth. Predicted specific growth rates (SGRs) using our secondary model were similar to measured SGRs, and evaluation of mathematical/statistical adequacy of the predictive model showed reliable results (r2 = 0.9975, MSE = 0.0002, Bf = 1.0375, Af = 1.0724). This model may be of use to dairy producers for manufacture of safe products by controlling Cronobacter sakazakii growth without the need for detection of the organism.
EFFECT OF ACID ADAPTATION ON THERMAL TOLERANCE OF ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 AND SALMONELLA ENTERICA IN MEAT SERUM
Authors: SINGH MANPREET , MULLINS HOLLY R. , SIMPSON SHAWNA M. , DICKSON JAMES S.
Published: January 2010

Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella were adapted to acidic environments by growing in tryptic soy broth with 1% glucose (TSB + 1%G). Thermal tolerance of acid‐adapted pathogens was evaluated in meat serum. Five‐strain cocktail of both bacteria were grown separately in TSB and TSB + 1%G for 24 h at 37C. Meat serum was prepared from irradiated ground beef, inoculated with either acid‐adapted or nonadapted E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella, and heated at 58, 62 and 65C to determine D values. D values of acid‐adapted E. coli O157:H7 were higher (P < 0.05) than nonadapted cells at 58, 62 and 65C. Significantly higher (P < 0.05) D values of acid‐adapted Salmonella were observed at 58 and 62C, but not at 65C. D values were 22.46 and 10.59 min at 58C, 3.58 and 1.38 min at 62C, 1.02 and 0.75 min at 65C for acid‐adapted and nonadapted E. coli O157:H7, respectively. D values of acid‐adapted Salmonella were 9.36 min at 58C, 1.66 min at 62C and 1.14 min at 65C, whereas the nonadapted counterparts had D values of 6.44, 0.88 and 0.95 min at 58, 62 and 65C, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Foodborne pathogens exist in the environment in healthy and/or stressed forms and have the potential to contaminate food products. This research was conducted to determine the effectiveness of commonly used heat treatments to eliminate acid‐adapted Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella in ground beef. There is limited literature on the thermal tolerance of acid adaptation of foodborne pathogens in actual food systems and studies in the past have been conducted at mild heating temperatures, whereas effects of heating to temperatures that are more indicative of cooking temperatures have rarely been researched. This study stresses upon the need for regulatory agencies and large‐scale meat manufacturers to take into consideration the increased thermal tolerance of acid‐adapted pathogens, as healthy growing cultures in a laboratory medium may inaccurately represent their survival in natural food environment.
HIGH PREVALENCE OF EXTENDED‐SPECTRUM β‐LACTAMASES ESCHERICHIA COLI AND VANCOMYCIN‐RESISTANT ENTEROCOCCI ISOLATES FROM CHICKEN PRODUCTS. A PROBLEM OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Authors: COSTA LUÍS , RADHOUANI HAJER , GOMES CLÁUDIA , IGREJAS GILBERTO , POETA PATRÍCIA
Published: January 2010

Twenty‐nine chicken products were acquired from different supermarkets in Portugal during September to December 2007 and were analyzed for extended‐spectrum β‐lactamases (ESBL) Escherichia coli and vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE). Cefotaxime‐resistant E. coli isolates were recovered in 27 of 29 chicken samples representing 93% of the analyzed samples. The highest percentages of resistance (more than 50% of the isolates) were detected for ampicillin, nalidixic acid and tetracycline. VRE isolates were detected in 17 of 29 samples of chicken origin (59%) and were identified as Enterococcus durans (n = 15) and E. faecium (n = 2) with the highest percentages of resistance being detected for erythromycin, tetracycline, ampicillin and ciprofloxacin. Seven E. durans and the two E. faecium isolates recovered from chicken wings, gizzard and skin show gelatinase activity.

The high rate of colonization of chicken products by these bacteria supports other studies suggesting that the food chain could be a source of ESBL and VRE colonization in humans representing a public health problem.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The data indicate that chicken products may be contaminated with a high prevalence of extended‐spectrum β‐lactamases Escherichia coli and vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE). It is important to mention that the isolates present a diversity of phenotypes of antimicrobial resistance, and half of the VRE isolates show also gelatinase activity, indicating that these animals may be a reservoir of bacteria showing virulence and increased resistance to antimicrobial agents, raising special concerns about their transmission to humans through the food chain.
PREVALENCE AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE OF LISTERIA SPECIES IN FOOD PRODUCTS IN BANGKOK, THAILAND
Authors: STONSAOVAPAK SIRIPORN , BOONYARATANAKORNKIT MALAI
Published: January 2010

A total of 380 meat and meat products, dairy and dairy products, fresh vegetables, fresh seafood, and ready‐to‐eat food samples from supermarkets in Bangkok, Thailand were collected and analyzed for the occurrence of Listeria spp. and of Listeria monocytogenes. The overall incidence of Listeria spp. was 16.8%, most of them were isolated from raw meat and vegetables. L. monocytogenes was isolated from 18 (4.7%) out of 380 studied samples. Other species isolated were L. innocua (6.6%), L. ivanovii (0.8%), L. seeligeri (0.5%), L. grayi (1.6%) and L. welshimeri (2.6%). The antimicrobial susceptibilities of the 64 isolate of Listeria spp. were also examined by the standard disk diffusion method. Listeria spp. were resistant to penicillin (6.3%), chloramphenicol (3.1%) and tetracycline (1.6%), but sensitive to amoxicillin, vancomycin, ampicillin, rifampicin and sulfamethoxazole.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Listeria monocytogenes prevalence in food products in Bangkok has been documented. More studies on the occurrence of L. monocytogenes are needed to establish microbiological criteria of foods in the country. The findings of our study, increases in antibiotic resistance among Listeria spp. will provide useful information for the development of public health policy in the use of antimicrobials in food animal production.
METHODS TO ROUTINELY PREDICT THE TEXTURE QUALITY OF POTATOES BY TUBER SPECIFIC GRAVITY
Authors: OCHSENBEIN CHRISTIAN , HOFFMANN THOMAS , ESCHER FELIX , KNEUBÜHLER HELENA , KEISER ANDREAS
Published: January 2010

Information on texture of steam‐cooked potato is of increased importance for consumers of fresh potatoes. As potato texture not only depends on genetic disposition but also on growth conditions, simple and reliable methods are needed to improve characterization of single potato lots. In the present study 65 potato lots were fractionized to 192 tuber samples according to their specific gravity and used for sensory evaluations. The aim was: (1) to further clarify the role of tuber specific gravity, variety and growth condition for texture attributes; and (2) to develop statistical models to predict potato texture objectively and reliably.

Texture attributes varied considerably within varieties. The attributes mealiness, dryness, graininess were closely interrelated. Within the varieties, the three attributes as well as sloughing correlated with specific gravity (r = 0.78–0.96). Thus, they were predicted by specific gravity using variety‐dependent models. Alternatively, using variety‐independent models mealiness was predicted by the two parameters specific gravity and sloughing. Softness was related to the variety, but not to specific gravity. The statistical models may be helpful in optimizing the allocation of individual potato lots to specific cooking types for the retail market and for processing.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Information on texture of steam‐cooked potato is of increased importance for consumers of fresh potatoes. We were approached by the potato industry to develop simple and reliable methods for characterization of single potato lots in trade. The objective measurement of texture by instrumental methods is rarely performed for routine testing, probably because of the laborious procedures. The measurement of tuber specific gravity is very simple. However, the relationship between specific gravity and various texture attributes is still not clear. We elaborate the relationship in an extensive evaluation using a broad range of potato lots. The models presented here may be applied directly for routine testing. We also suggest adaptations for routine calibration of new varieties and for routine testing of single lots. Further, the study encourages the scale‐up of technologies which allow the grading of potatoes according to their specific gravity and thereby increase significantly texture homogeneity.
PREDICTION OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CUMIN SEED USING ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS
Authors: SAIEDIRAD M.H. , MIRSALEHI M.
Published: January 2010

In this paper, two artificial neural networks (ANNs) are applied to acquire the relationship between the mechanical properties and moisture content of cumin seed, using the data of quasi‐static loading test. In establishing these relationship, the moisture content, seed size, loading rate and seed orientation were taken as the inputs of both models. The force and energy required for fracturing of cumin seed, under quasi‐static loading were taken as the outputs of two models. The activation function in the output layer of models obeyed a linear output, whereas the activation function in the hidden layers were in the form of a sigmoid function. Adjusting ANN parameters such as learning rate and number of neurons and hidden layers affected the accuracy of force and energy prediction. Comparison of the predicted and experimented data showed that the ANN models used to predict the relationships of mechanical properties of cumin seed have a good learning precision and good generalization, because the root mean square errors of the predicated data by ANNs were rather low (4.6 and 7.7% for the force and energy, respectively).

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Cumin seed is generally used as a food additive in the form of powder for imparting flavor to different food preparations and for a variety of medicinal properties. Physical properties of cumin seeds are essential for the design of equipment for handling, harvesting, aeration, drying, storing, grinding and processing. For powder preparation especially the fracture behavior of the seeds are essential. These properties are affected by numerous factors such as size, form and moisture content of the grain and deformation speed. A neural network model was developed that can be used to predict the relationships of mechanical properties. Artificial neural network models are powerful empirical models approach, which can be compared with mathematical models.
A MODEL FOR VISCOSITY REDUCTION IN POLYSACCHARIDES SUBJECTED TO HIGH‐PRESSURE HOMOGENIZATION
Authors: HARTE FEDERICO , VENEGAS ROCÍO
Published: January 2010

Three polysaccharides (alginate, K‐carrageenan, xanthan) dispersed in water and exhibiting Newtonian or pseudoplastic (Power Law) flow properties were subjected to high‐pressure homogenization (0 to 300 MPa) and one to five homogenization cycles. An exponential decay in viscosity was observed in the three processed polysaccharides due to both homogenization pressure and number of homogenization cycles. A 75–85% viscosity reduction and a viscosity plateau was reached after the polysaccharide dispersions were subjected to a sufficient homogenization pressure and/or number of homogenization cycles. A modified exponential decay model was proposed to describe a sudden reduction in viscosity and the observed constant minimum viscosity values after sufficient homogenization. The model was adjusted by minimizing the sum of squared differences between observed and modeled viscosity values. The model exhibited good correlation coefficient with experimental observations for the three polysaccharides tested (r > 0.98) and error analysis showed negligible fixed errors (bias) and normally distributed random differences between experimental and modeled viscosity values.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Polysaccharides are extensively used to modify textural properties of fluid and semi‐solid foods. For a given polysaccharide, texture will be greatly affected by molecular weight. This manuscript shows the effect of high pressure homogenization on viscosity reduction for the polysaccharides alginate, K‐carrageenan and xanthan gum. High‐pressure homogenization offers the potential to be used for the manufacture of polysaccharides with targeted viscosity properties.
CRISPNESS AND CRUNCHINESS JUDGMENT OF APPLES BASED ON CONTACT ACOUSTIC EMISSION
Authors: ZDUNEK ARTUR , KONOPACKA DOROTA , JESIONKOWSKA KATARZYNA
Published: January 2010

Contact acoustic emission (AE) measurement, together with a puncture test, were used to evaluate the crispness and crunchiness of three apple cultivars. A storage program was used to induce changes in apple crispness and crunchiness. The instrumental measurements were compared with the results of sensory evaluation.

It was found that crispness and crunchiness could be evaluated instrumentally by measuring firmness, AE events, mean AE amplitude or the product of AE events and mean AE amplitude. For one cultivar, however, firmness was not correlated with any sensory attribute. Generally, the best correlation with sensory attributes was found for the exponential value of AE events. Contact AE allows the measurement of sensory crispness or crunchiness for a given apple cultivar or independently for any apple cultivar. Contact AE can be considered as a useful method for the evaluation of sound properties of wet‐crisp foods.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Contact acoustic emission method can be used for instrumental evaluation of crispness and crunchiness of apples. The method allows more accurate evaluation of these attributes than firmness measurement. There is a chance to extend the application to other wet‐crisp foods and to use the method together with other destructive tests, like texture profile analysis or single edge notched bend.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND VISCOELASTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF TWO VARIETIES OF YAM TUBERS (DIOSCOREA ALATA)
Authors: ALVIS ARMANDO , VILLAMIEL MAR , RADA‐MENDOZA MAITE
Published: January 2010

The main mechanical properties and viscoelastic characteristics of two different cultivars of yam have been measured in this work. Using an Instron machine, some different tests has been applied: puncture, uniaxial compression and bending in order to calculate the parameters: maximum stress of penetration, stress and strain at fracture, deformability modulus and the constants “a” and “b” from the Peleg model. It is concluded that the Pico de Botella cultivar has a fracture stress higher (0.57 MPa) than the Diamante 22 cultivar (0.31 MPa). Also, the degree of deformation at fracture is higher (32 versus 21%). In relation with the constants from the Peleg viscoelasticity model, there are no differences between cultivars, both having the same value of the asintotic stress (a = 0.43) and very similar for the relaxation stress rates (Pico de Botella, b = 0.03 and Diamante 22, b = 0.02).

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Information on mechanical properties of yam that has not been reported in the literature.
Evaluation of the MODFLOW‐2005 Conduit Flow Process
Authors: Hill Melissa E. , Stewart Mark T. , Martin Angel
Published: January 2010

The recent development of the Conduit Flow Process (CFP) by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides hydrogeologic modelers with a new tool that incorporates the non‐Darcian, multiporosity components of flow characteristic of karst aquifers. CFP introduces new parameters extending beyond those of traditional Darcian groundwater flow codes. We characterize a karst aquifer to collect data useful for evaluating this new tool at a test site in west‐central Florida, where the spatial distribution and cross‐sectional area of the conduit network are available. Specifically, we characterize: (1) the potential for Darcian/non‐Darcian flow using estimates of specific discharge vs. observed hydraulic gradients, and (2) the temporal variation for the direction and magnitude of fluid exchange between the matrix and conduit network during extreme hydrologic events. We evaluate the performance of CFP Mode 1 using a site‐scale dual‐porosity model and compare its performance with a comparable laminar equivalent continuum model (ECM) using MODFLOW‐2005. Based on our preliminary analyses, hydraulic conductivity coupled with conduit wall conductance improved the match between observed and simulated discharges by 12% to 40% over turbulent flow alone (less than 1%).
Synthesis and Comparative Study of Nano‐TiO2 Over Degussa P‐25 in Disinfection of Water
Authors: Swetha S. , Santhosh S. M. , Geetha Balakrishna R.
Published: January 2010

Nanostructured TiO2 crystals were synthesized by gel to crystalline conversion. The crystals obtained were anatase form of titania averaging in 30 nm particles with an intrinsic band gap of 3.1 eV. The photocatalytic behavior was evaluated for the bactericidal effect in water, contaminated with the indicator organism Escherichia coli. The 100% photoinactivation of E. coli was achieved within 60 min with suspended nano‐TiO2. The catalytic activity of synthesized nanosample was observed to be 2.6 times more than that of commercial TiO2 sample referred to as Degussa P‐25. The photoinactivation of E. coli was tested with irradiation source of different wavelengths to substantiate the influence of particle size and nano crystallinity on electronic band structure. The photoactivity of nano titania enhanced to 1.625 times when the source of irradiation shifted from 360 to 400 nm while Degussa P‐25 showed no change.
Photoreaction Cycle of Phoborhodopsin (Sensory Rhodopsin II) from Halobacterium salinarum Expressed in Escherichia coli
Authors: Dai Gang , Ohno Yoshikazu , Ikeda Yoichi , Tamogami Jun , Kikukawa Takashi , Kamo Naoki , Iwasa Tatsuo
Published: January 2010

Phoborhodopsin (pR; also called sensory rhodopsin II, SRII) is a photoreceptor of negative phototaxis of halobacteria. The studies of photochemical properties of this pigment are not many because the amount of the pigment is small and the stability is low. Recently an expression system of phoborhodopsin from Halobacterium salinarum (called salinarum phoborhodopsin, spR; also HsSRII) in Escherichia coli and purification method has been developed (Mironova et al. [2005] FEBS Lett., 579, 3147–3151), which enables detailed studies on the photochemical properties of spR. In the present work, the photoreaction cycle of E. coli‐expressed spR was studied by low‐temperature spectroscopy and flash photolysis. Formations of K‐, M‐, O‐like intermediates and P480 were reconfirmed as reported previously. New findings are as follows. (1) The K‐like intermediate (P500) was a mixture of two photoproducts. (2) Formation of L‐like intermediate (P482) was observed by low‐temperature spectroscopy and flash photolysis at room temperature. (3) On long irradiation of spR at 20°C, formation of a new photoproduct P370 was observed and it decayed to the original spR in the dark with a decay half time of 190 min. Based on these results the similarities and dissimilarities between spR and ppR are discussed.