bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gelation of Food Protein Induced by Recombinant Microbial Transglutaminase
Authors: Yokoyama K. , Ohtsuka T. , Kuraishi C. , Ono K. , Kita Y. , Arakawa T. , Ejima D.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The recombinant microbial transglutaminase from Streptoverticillium mobaraense var. (rMTGase) was expressed in Escherichia coli. Specific enzyme activity of rMTGase was comparable to native MTGase. However, the gelation of a sodium caseinate solution induced by rMTGase was slower than that induced by native MTGase. In addition, the mechanical property of kamaboko prepared with rMTGase was weaker than that with native MTGase. In SDS‐PAGE analysis, α‐casein monomers decreased more slowly during the incubation with rMTGase than MTGase. These results confirmed the difference of cross‐linking activity between the 2 enzymes. Furthermore, thermal stability of rMTGase was lower compared to native MTGase. These results suggest that the difference of cross‐linking activity and thermal stability between the 2 enzymes cause differences in gelation activity of protein.
Antimutagenic Activity of Sakuranetin from Prunus Jamasakura
Authors: Miyazawa M. , Kinoshita H. , Okuno Y.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Sakuranetin (compound 1) from bark of Prunus jamasakura showed a suppressive effect on umu gene expression of SOS response in Salmonella typhimurium TA1535/pSK1002 against the mutagen furylfuramide. Gene expression was suppressed 83% at a concentration of 0.70 μmol/mL. The ID50 value of compound 1 was 0.30 μmol/mL. This compound showed the suppression of 4NQO, MNNG, Trp‐P‐1, AfB1, activated Trp‐P‐1, and UV irradiation‐induced SOS response. The methylated derivative (compound 2) of compound 1 showed less suppressive effect against all mutagens than compound 1. The antimutagenic activities of compounds 1 and 2 against furylfuramide, Trp‐P‐1, and activated Trp‐P‐1 were assayed by the Ames test using the S. typhimurium TA100 strain.
Absorption of Calcium and Magnesium by the Fruiting Body of the Cultivated Mushroom Hypsizigus marmoreus (Peck) Bigelow from Sawdust Culture Media
Authors: Tabata T. , Ogura T.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Hypsizigus marmoreus was cultivated in potato‐sucrose‐agar (PSA) and in sawdust media supplemented with Ca or Mg salts. The radial growth of mycelia was determined. The mushroom spawn did not grow on PSA supplemented with Ca carbonate, Mg carbonate, or Mg hydroxide. However, the mycelia grew well on sawdust media supplemented with Ca phosphate, Ca carbonate, or Mg sulfate. Ca of the fruiting body was increased 4.0 to 5.6 times by 1% to 5% of Ca phosphate or Ca carbonate. Mg was increased 1.4 times by 0.5% of Mg sulfate or Mg chloride.
Irradiation Effects on Biogenic Amines in Korean Fermented Soybean Paste During Fermentation
Authors: Kim J.‐H. , Ahn H.‐J. , Kim D.‐H. , Jo C. , Yook H.‐S. , Park H.‐J. , Byun M.‐W.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Irradiation effects on biogenic amines (BAs) and microbiological populations of Korean fermented soybean paste were investigated during fermentation. Soybean paste was prepared and irradiated with doses of 5,10, and 15 kGy, and then fermented at 25 °C for 12 wk. Bacillus spp. and lactic‐acid bacteria decreased by irradiation but increased during fermentation. Biogenic amines detected were putrescine, cadaverine, β‐phenylethylamine, spermidine, spermine, tryptamine, histamine, tyramine, and agmatine. A significant difference was not observed in BA content between control and irradiated samples immediately after gamma irradiation. However, 4 kinds of BAs, putrescine, tryptamine, spermidine, and histamine, showed significant reduction by irradiation during fermentation (P < 0.05).
Effect of Heat Treatment on Bovine Lactoperoxidase Activity in Skim Milk: Kinetic and Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Marín E. , Sánchez L. , Pérez M.D. , Puyol P. , Calvo M.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The effect of heat on lactoperoxidase activity in bovine milk was studied over a range of 68 to 76 °C. Values of residual enzymatic activity after different treatments were studied by kinetic analysis, obtaining D‐values and the Z‐value (3.1 °C). Denaturation of lactoperoxidase, measured by loss in activity, can be described as a 1st‐order reaction. Rate constants were calculated, as was the energy of activation, which was 737.69 kJ/mol. Thermodynamic parameters were also calculated. The high value obtained for the variation in enthalpy of activation indicates that a high amount of energy is required to initiate denaturation, probably due to the molecular conformation of lactoperoxidase.
Differentiation in the Lipid Quality of Wild and Farmed Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and Gilthead Sea Bream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Orban E. , Nevigato T. , Lena G. Di , Casini I. , Marzetti A.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The elements of differentiation that characterize the quality of the lipid fraction of wild and farmed sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) were investigated. Reared fish of either species had a total lipid content significantly higher than the wild counterparts. Liquid chromatography of unsaponifiable lipids showed, on a lipid gram basis, higher cholesterol levels in wild fish and comparable amounts of squalene, all‐trans retinol, and α‐tocopherol. Gas chromatography of total lipids revealed differences between the fatty acid profiles of wild and reared fish.
Determination of PCBs in Fish Using Enzyme‐linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
Authors: Lasrado J.A. , Santerre C.R. , Zajicek J.L. , Stahl J. R. , Tillitt D.E. , Deardorff D.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were determined in fish tissue using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Standard curves for Aroclor 1248, 1254, and 1260 in catfish tissue were developed with ranges from 0.05 to 0.5 ppm and 0.5 to 5.0 ppm. Wild fish were initially analyzed using gas chromatography/electron‐capture detection (GC/ECD) and those having residues within the standard curve ranges were analyzed with ELISA. Results obtained using ELISA and GC/ECD were not significantly different (p < 0.05) from 0.05 to 0.5 ppm. From 0.5 to 5.0 ppm, the standard curve for Aroclor 1254 was the best predictor of total PCB in wild fish samples.
Design of Plastic Bottles for Packaging of Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Nobile M.A. Del , Ambrosino M.L. , Sacchi R. , Masi P.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: In this work the performance of traditional plastic containers and that of 2 innovative materials containing an oxygen scavenger is evaluated by simulating the behavior of bottled virgin olive oil by means of a mathematical model able to predict the evolution of the profile of hydroperoxide and oxygen concentration inside bottled virgin olive oil. The model was successfully validated by comparing the model prediction with the experimental data. The results obtained show that it is possible to obtain a quality decay kinetic slower than that obtained for olive oil bottled in glass containers by either using an oxygen scavenger or reducing the concentration of oxygen dissolved in the oil prior to bottling.
Whey Protein Coatings for Fresh Fruits and Relative Humidity Effects
Authors: Cisneros‐Zevallos L. , Krochta J.M.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Whey protein isolate (WPI) films have proven to be excellent gas barriers in previous studies, making them potential coatings for fresh produce. WPI‐coated apples and controls were stored at 20 °;C under RH's ranging from 54 to 92%. Results showed performance of WPI coatings depended on the environment RH. The internal oxygen was lowered, and carbon dioxide increased with decreasing RH conditions. RH did not affect control fruits. At low RH (about 70 to 80% RH), anaerobic respiration was induced in coated fruits due to low oxygen levels (about 0.025 atm). Controlling thickness and film permeability will allow attainment of the appropriate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels for coated fruit.
Microencapsulation of Lactobacillus casei YIT 9018 using a Microporous Glass Membrane Emulsification System
Authors: Song S.‐H. , Cho Y.‐H. , Park J.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Microporous glass (MPG) membrane emulsification was used for micro encapsulation of Lactoba‐cillus casei YIT 9018. Several process parameters of membrane emulsification were investigated for producing a stable emulsion. The droplet dia in the emulsion depended upon the membrane pore size. The monodispersed emulsion obtained by this technique resulted in well‐formed microcapsules with a narrow particle size distribution. For artificial gastric acid and bile, the viable count of encapsulated cells was constant through the incubation time, while the count of nonencapsulated cells was significantly decreased. A storage stability test at different temperatures resulted in a viability of encapsulated cells 3 to 5 log cycles higher than the viability of nonencapsulated cells.
Application of a TTI‐based Distribution Management System for Quality Optimization of Frozen Vegetables at the Consumer End
Authors: Giannakourou M.C. , Taoukis P.S.
Published: July 2006

The applicability of Time Temperature Integrators (TTI) for frozen chain management was assessed. Shelf life kinetics indices of frozen green peas and white mushrooms and response kinetics of suitable enzymatic TTI were used to confirm the monitoring effectiveness of TTI, in a controlled field test with 200 products. Comparison to actual measurements of quality indices showed that TTI response provides a reliable indication of the relative quality status of the products. The potential of Least Shelf‐Life First Out (LSFO) system, a TTI based management system for frozen product distribution and stock rotation, was demonstrated by Monte Carlo technique that showed consistent, acceptable quality and minimization of rejected products at the consumer end.
Oxygen Barrier Properties of Whey Protein Isolate Coatings on Polypropylene Films
Authors: Hong S.‐I. , Krochta J.M.
Published: July 2006

Oxygen permeation characteristics of whey protein isolate (WPI) coatings on polypropylene (PP) films were investigated to examine the feasibility of WPI coating as a novel biopolymer oxygen barrier for food packaging applications. Heat‐denatured aqueous solutions of WPI with several plasticizers including glycerol, sorbitol, sucrose, propylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol were applied on the surfaces of PP films previously treated with corona discharge. Among plasticizers used, sucrose conferred the best oxygen barrier property to the WPI‐coated films. Oxygen permeability (OP) of the resulting WPI‐coated films increased significantly with temperature, showing very good agreement with the Arrhenius model. OP of the coated films also increased exponentially with relative humidity.
Optimization of Extraction of Anthocyanins from Black Currants with Aqueous Ethanol
Authors: Cacace J.E. , Mazza G.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Extraction of anthocyanins from black currants using aqueous ethanol was optimized for yield and antioxidant activity. The process variable having the most effect on the extraction was the solvent to solid ratio, which increased phenolic extraction in the whole range from 0 to 19 L/kg. Total phenolics increased with ethanol concentration up to a maximum at about 60% and then decreased with further increase in solvent concentration irrespective of the solvent to solid ratio. Temperature only affected the extraction of anthocyanins. Increasing the temperature beyond 30 to 35 °C resulted in degradation of anthocyanins and reduction of yields. Variation in extract composition was not sufficiently large to affect antioxidant activity.
Compression Heating of Selected Fatty Food Materials during High‐pressure Processing
Authors: Rasanayagam V. , Balasubramaniam V.M. , Ting E. , Sizer C.E. , Bush C. , Anderson C.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Compression heating of selected fatty and model food materials during high‐pressure processing was studied using a specially designed experimental system. Commercially available soybean oil, olive oil, beef fat, chicken fat, and salmon fish were studied at different pressures (150 to 600 MPa) and at different initial temperatures (25 to 70 °C). At an initial temperature of 25 °C, fats and oils showed higher compression heating values (up to 8.7 °C per 100 MPa) compared to 2 to 3 °C per 100 MPa for water. Though the compression heating of water depends on its initial temperature, oils have little or no effect of initial temperature.
Antimicrobial Action of Chitosan against Spoilage Organisms in Precooked Pizza
Authors: Rodríguez M.S. , Ramos V. , Agulló E.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Chitosan antifungal capacity when the biopolymer is used as an edible film and as a dough ingredient in precooked pizza was studied. This action was evaluated against the fungi that produce major spoilage in that product. It was observed that the use of chitosan in acetic acid as edible coating (0.079 g/100 g pizza) delayed Alternaria sp, Penicillium sp, and Cladosporium sp (Deuteromycetes) growth. This behavior was similar compared with the action of calcium propionate (0.103 g/100 g pizza) and potassium sorbate (0.034 g/100 g pizza) preservatives. On the other hand, chitosan showed a little sensibility on Aspergillus sp (Zygomycetes). It was demonstrated that the use of chitosan into the dough was not effective.
In Vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Shallot and Scallion
Authors: Yin M.‐C. , Hsu P.‐C. , Chang H.‐H.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: In vitro antioxidant and antibacterial protection of shallot and scallion were examined. Water extract and oil of shallot and scallion significantly delayed lipid oxidation in multilamellar phosphatidylcholine liposomes and human RBC membranes (p < 0.05). Shallot oil at 5 and 10 mM showed marked antioxidant activity at 75 °C (p < 0.05). Shallot and scallion oils significantly inhibited the growth of 4 food‐borne bacteria, Salmonella typhimurium DT104, E.coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus, and 4 nosocomial bacteria, methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii (p < 0.05). All observed antioxidant and antibacterial activities were dose‐dependent (p < 0.05). These results suggested the use of shallot and scallion oils in food systems could enhance lipid and microbial stability.
Antimicrobial Effects of Wine on Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella typhimurium in a Model Stomach System
Authors: Just J.R. , Daeschel M.A.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Survival of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella spp. was evaluated in grape juice and wine. Bacteria were inactivated in wine within 60 min but survived up to 16 d in juice. A model stomach system containing food and synthetic gastric fluid (SGF) was designed to investigate the antibacterial effect of wine when consumed with a meal. In this system, wine had little effect on E. coli O157:H7 survival whereas Salmonella was undetectable after 120 min. A nonvolatile wine fraction (containing acids) was more effective in killing Salmonella than a volatile wine fraction (containing alcohol), suggesting that antibacterial activity of wine is primarily acid dependent.
The Efficiency of TBHQ, β‐carotene, Citric Acid, and Tinuvin 234® on the Sensory Stability of Soybean Oil Packaged in PET Bottles
Authors: de Azeredo H.M.C. , Faria J.A.F. , da Silva M.A.A.P.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: The use of plastic packaging for oils permits exposure to light, increasing oxidation. The goal of this work was to maximize sensory stability of soybean oil packaged in PET bottles. A central composite design was used to combine different levels of TBHQ, β‐carotene, and citric acid, added to oil, and Tinuvin 234®, added to bottles. After 6 mo of storage, the oxidation degree was assessed by sensory and peroxide tests. TBHQ and Tinuvin 234 were the most effective antioxidants, and the minimum concentrations required to keep a reasonable stability during storage were: 120 ppm of TBHQ; 7 ppm of β‐carotene; 15 ppm of citric acid and 0.1% of Tinuvin 234.
Evaluation of Textural Properties and Microstructure During Storage of Minimally Processed Apples
Authors: Soliva‐Fortuny R.C. , Lluch M.A. , Quiles A. , Grigelmo‐Miguel N. , Martín‐Belloso O.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Texture and microstructure of fresh‐cut Golden delicious apples were studied during modified atmosphere storage. Softening could be prevented during several wk under oxygen restrictive environments. Initial 100% N2‐atmospheres and the use of bags with a permeability of 15 cm3 O2/m2·bar·24h preserved cell structure from collapsing, thus being the best conditions to maintain the original texture of apples. First‐order kinetics fitted data with high accuracy. Firmness could be described by a simple 1st‐order model with rate constants of 6.3 × 10‐3 to 8.9 × 10‐3 d‐1. Hardness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and chewiness also followed an exponential decay that could be modeled from fractional conversion kinetics.
A Rapid Hexane‐free Method for Analyzing Lycopene Content in Watermelon
Authors: Davis A.R. , Fish W.W. , Perkins‐Veazie P.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Lycopene is a red carotenoid with antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. Current methods to assay lycopene content are time‐consuming and require organic solvents. This report discusses a rapid and reliable light‐absorption method to assay watermelon lycopene content that uses no organic solvents. Light absorption of 152 watermelon flesh purees was measured with a xenon flash colorimeter/spectrophotometer that can measure actual light absorption from opaque samples; results were compared with a hexane extraction method. The puree absorbance method gave a precise linear relationship (R2= 0.98) to lycopene content and was independent of lycopene concentrations or watermelon variety within the lycopene concentration measured (24 mg/g to 88 mg/g fresh weight).
Consumer‐specified Instrumental Quality of Short‐dough Cookie Texture Using Penetrometry and Break Force
Authors: Booth D.A. , Mobini S. , Earl T. , Wainwright C.J.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT: Consumers' ratings of overall textural quality during the initial biting and crushing of the cookie were influenced by stimulation to the senses generated from the total number of cracks for a given depth of needle penetration and the proportions of cracks low (0.03 to 0.05 N) and high (> 1 N) in force, at least as strongly as by effects of 3‐point break force. Spontaneous descriptions of the sensed effects of denting, breaking, and crushing the cookie, were less often discriminatively sensitive to the fracture dynamics than was overall texture. Thus, penetrometry provides effective measures for consumer‐discriminated texture quality of cookies.
Olfactory Perception of Major Odorants Found in the Headspace of Aqueous Soy Protein Isolate Slurries
Authors: Ang E.C. , Boatright W.L.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT:Concentrations of hexanal, methanethiol, 2‐pentyl furan and dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS) in the headspace above aqueous soy protein isolates (SPI) slurries were quantified through gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Simulation of the characteristic odor of SPI was attempted by combining these 4 odorants in water to recreate headspace concentrations found above the aqueous slurries of SPI. Sensory characteristics of the combined odorants were compared with each individual odorants. The mixture of combined odorants was perceived to possess more resemblance to the characteristic odor of SPI than any individual odorant and was rated a 5 on a 10‐point scale. A 2nd sensory evaluation showed that 2‐pentyl furan suppressed the perceived intensity of DMTS.
Relative performance of native and exotic grass species in response to amendment of drastically disturbed serpentine substrates
Authors: O'DELL RYAN E. , CLAASSEN VICTOR P.
Published: July 2006

Limited information exists on approaches to effectively revegetate severely disturbed, barren, subgrade (unconsolidated parent material) serpentine substrates. Additionally, little is known about the invasion potential of exotic grasses from highly invaded non‐serpentine environments into adjacent, relatively uninvaded serpentine environments following restoration efforts that use substrate nutrient enrichment to accelerate revegetation. This study investigated approaches to the revegetation of subgrade serpentine substrates with native, serpentine‐tolerant grass species while limiting the establishment and reproduction of invasive annual grass species.

Biomass production was measured for two native serpentine perennial grass species and both biomass and seed production (fitness) were measured for one native annual and two invasive annual grass species. All species were grown on subgrade serpentine substrate amended with garden (yard) waste compost, slow‐release nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizers and CaSO42H2O (gypsum) in both glasshouse and field environments. The primary goals of this study were to: (i) determine how substrate amendment with compost changed with time and (ii) identify the substrate amended combination that maximized native grass species biomass and seed production while limiting the productivity of invasive annual grass species.

Compost amendment of the subgrade serpentine substrate greatly increased plant‐available N, P, K and calcium (Ca) levels, decreased plant‐available heavy metals, and increased the cation exchange capacity. Substrateconcentration remained low for up to 60 days following compost amendment but then increased more than six‐fold in the 120 days thereafter. No other substrate properties changed substantially over a period of 180 days.

Amendment of the serpentine substrate with 30% volume compost per volume substrate, and 220 mg each of N, P and K per kg substrate, maximized biomass and seed production of the native grass species. This amendment level, however, resulted in an undesirable increase in biomass and seed production (fitness) of invasive annual grass species, exceeding that of the native species.

Synthesis and applications.Revegetation of drastically disturbed, barren, subgrade serpentine substrates with native, serpentine‐tolerant plant species can be successfully achieved with a combination of yard waste compost (organic) and slow‐release (inorganic) fertilizer amendment. Enrichment of low‐fertility serpentine substrates to promote native plant growth, however, may encourage invasion of undesirable plant species into the native plant community, leading to habitat degradation. Therefore, aggressive control methods may be required to prevent invasion of exotic species into the revegetation community.
Can commercially imported bumble bees out‐compete their native conspecifics?
Authors: INGS T. C. , WARD N. L. , CHITTKA L.
Published: July 2006

Although invasive species are major topics of research, little consideration has been given to the implications of introducing non‐native subspecies or beneficial organisms such as pollinators. However, the extensive trade in bumble bees as pollinators of glasshouse crops involves both. Within regions in Europe, the importation of non‐native commercially reared subspecies of Bombus terrestris could endanger native bumble bees through competitive displacement and/or hybridization.

This study made a direct ecological comparison between commercially imported and native B. terrestris colonies growing in the wild in the UK. In particular, using a paired design, we compared the nectar‐foraging performance and reproductive outputs of commercial and native colonies growing under identical field conditions.

Commercial colonies performed well in the field, with substantially higher nectar‐foraging rates than native colonies in four out of five locations. Nectar‐foraging performance was positively correlated with forager size, with commercial bees being consistently larger than native bees.

All seven commercial colonies studied produced gynes (new queens), with two colonies each producing in excess of 50. In contrast, only two out of seven native colonies produced gynes, and those only produced small numbers (five in total). Males were produced by all colonies but there were no significant differences in numbers between commercial and native subspecies.

Synthesis and applications. The high reproductive success of commercial colonies indicates that there is an appreciable risk that they will become established and spread within the UK. Furthermore, their superior foraging ability and large colony size could lead them to out‐compete native bumble bees. Clearly the invasive potential of non‐native subspecies and/or beneficial organisms should not be overlooked. With respect to the current importation of commercial bumble bees, we strongly recommend a precautionary approach: native species and subspecies should be locally reared and the use/disposal of bees should be strictly regulated.
Retracted: Faecal bacteria associated with different diets of wintering red kites: influence of livestock carcass dumps in microflora alteration and pathogen acquisition
Authors: BLANCO GUILLERMO , LEMUS JESÚS A. , GRANDE JAVIER
Published: July 2006

Despite the important role of refuse dumps for the conservation of threatened avian scavengers, there is no information about the direct effects on scavenger health from feeding on meat remains found at these places, including the potential for exposure to infections agents and harmful chemical residues.

We assessed the composition, species richness and prevalence of faecal microflora of wintering red kites Milvus milvus in two areas of central Spain where kites fed primarily on carrion from stabled livestock reared in intensive conditions (Segovia) versus those that fed on wild rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus (Madrid).

Faecal bacterial flora composition, species richness and prevalence differed between areas. These differences were attributed to diet and the environmental conditions found at the sites where the kites obtained most of their food. The intestinal microflora of kites feeding on carrion from stabled livestock (mostly fattening pigs) differed from the flora considered to be normal for a healthy raptor.

Salmonella sp. was found in a relatively high proportion of samples from Segovia (25%), 6% of those samples yielded in pure culture (serotypes enteritidis and gallinarum). If these serotypes cause disease in kites and other raptors, as they do for poultry and some other birds, there may be cause for concern regarding the health of an important sector of the red kite wintering population.

Synthesis and applications. Conservation of wintering red kites in Spain should involve management to promote the recovery of populations of wild prey, especially wild rabbits, and measures to allow free‐range livestock carcasses to be placed in the countryside for scavenger elimination without posing a risk from the spread and transfer of disease, especially bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). Periodic inspections by management agencies should ensure that meat originating from stabled livestock and disposed of in refuse dumps does not pose major hazards for avian scavengers. The risk to scavengers from ingestion of residues of veterinary drugs, pathogen acquisition and gut flora alteration, arising from disposal and accumulation of infected carcasses and rotten meat in refuse dumps, must be carefully monitored and managed.
The lived experience of a tracheostomy tube change: a phenomenological study
Authors: Donnelly Frank , Wiechula Rick
Published: July 2006

Aim.  To investigate the lived experience patients have of a tracheostomy tube change.

Background.  Few interpretive studies have looked at specific nursing interventions in relation to nursing practice. This study has investigated the lived experience of patients from an intensive care unit that have had a tracheostomy tube change. The tracheostomy is a significant intervention for many patients within critical care.

Method.  Using a phenomenological approach, guided by the insights of Martin Heidegger and Max van Manen, participants were interviewed with their responses being transcribed into a text. This text has been subject to hermeneutic analysis using the theories of Paul Ricoeur. This hermeneutic approach has required using the text (discourse) as the focus of the interpretation.

Findings.  The findings of this study imply that the experience of a tracheostomy tube change is more complex than that of simply a physical sensation. There is a need for participants to prepare themselves psychologically, a process that requires not only the trust of nursing staff but also the assessment by the participant that the nursing staff member has a level of competence to perform the task. The need for maintaining communication and the ability to speak were at times more significant for participants than even the risk of other airway complications.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study has highlighted the potential for further interpretive studies into some of the more specific aspects of caring for patients that have been or are critically ill. The themes revealed will enable the nurse, required to change a tracheostomy tube, to do so with an improved level of empathy and understanding.
Balancing uncertainty and acceptance: understanding Chinese women's responses to an abnormal cervical smear result
Authors: Twinn Sheila
Published: July 2006

Aims and objectives.  The aims of this study were to examine the responses of Hong Kong Chinese women receiving an abnormal smear result and to compare any differences in responses depending on the diagnosis of the abnormal smear.

Background.  The implementation of cervical screening programmes has resulted in an increasing number of women receiving an abnormal smear result requiring cytological surveillance or referral for colposcopy. Evidence suggests that women frequently misunderstood such results, believing that they already have cancer. However, little is known about the responses of Chinese women in this situation.

Design.  An exploratory qualitative study.

Methods.  Face‐to‐face semi‐structured tape‐recorded interviews were undertaken with 66 women sampled opportunistically from an urban centre of a major non‐governmental service provider. Amongst this sample, 22 women required cytological surveillance, 20 required treatment for vaginitis and 24 were referred for colposcopy. Thematic analysis was undertaken of the translated interviews within and across groups to identify categories and themes illustrating women's responses to an abnormal smear result.

Findings.  An important difference in the comparison of the data sets was that of women's understanding of the cause of the abnormal result. Women with vaginitis understood the cause of their abnormality, whereas those in the other groups remained unclear about their abnormality, generating feelings of fear and uncertainty. Trust in practitioners influenced women's acceptance of the result.

Conclusions.  Although responses of Chinese women are similar to those in other population groups, with those referred for colposcopy experiencing greater anxiety than those undergoing cytological surveillance, balancing feelings of uncertainty and acceptance influenced Chinese women's responses to their abnormal results and allowed them to make sense of their result in their everyday life. Trust in the practitioner was essential to the acceptance of their result.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Such findings highlight implications for nursing practice, in particular developing information‐giving strategies and targeted information to help women manage feelings of uncertainty. The importance of trusting professional relationships in determining women's acceptance of an abnormal result is also highlighted. The findings suggest nurses working with Chinese women should consider the underlying influence of culture on women's beliefs and actions.
Relationship of degenerative changes of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with the angle of eminentia
Authors: JASINEVICIUS T. R. , PYLE M. A. , NELSON S. , LALUMANDIER J. A. , KOHRS K. J. , SAWYER D. R.
Published: July 2006

summary  The purposes of this study were threefold: (i) to assess the degenerative changes of the temporomandibular joint [TMJ (condyles and articular eminence of the glenoid fossa)], (ii) to determine whether the TMJ degeneration levels differ by ethnic group and gender and (iii) to assess the association between the angles of eminentia and TMJ degeneration, while controlling for gender, ethnicity, age and number of teeth. The sample included 245 20th century dry skulls: 130 African–American (82 male and 48 female) and 115 European–American (75 male and 40 female), with a mean age of 46·4 ± 19·9 years. The angles of eminentia were measured in a sagittal plane. The medial, central and lateral portions of the articular slope and anterior portion of the condyle were assessed for degenerative changes. Degeneration scores were calculated for the eminentia and condyles. Statistical analyses included two‐way anovas, Pearson's correlation coefficients and linear regression models. There were differences in the degree of TMJ degeneration of the African–American and European–American males and females. European–American females retained fewer teeth, had the highest TMJ degeneration scores and exhibited significant relationships between the eminentia angles and degeneration. When the independent variables were entered into the regression model, only the degeneration of the eminentia was significantly associated with the angles of eminentia. Although the degeneration of the eminentia explained some of the variation of the eminentia angles, it is clear that the inclusion of multiple factors is essential to study the remodelling of the glenoid fossa.
Quantitative analysis of HBV cccDNA from clinical specimens: correlation with clinical and virological response during antiviral therapy
Authors: Bourne E. J. , Dienstag J. L. , Lopez V. A. , Sander T. J. , Longlet J. M. , Hall J. G. , Kwiatkowski R. W. , Wright T. , Lai C. L. , Condreay L. D.
Published: July 2006

Summary.  Attempts to investigate changes in various forms of intrahepatic hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA during antiviral therapy have been hampered by limitations in technologies and scarcity of adequate tissue for analysis. We used a sensitive, specific assay to detect and quantitate covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) from total intrahepatic HBV DNA in clinical liver specimens. Total HBV DNA and cccDNA from 21 needle‐biopsy specimens were quantified, with levels ranging from 0.1 to 9.8 copies/cell and 0.3 to 491.0 copies/cell, respectively. Then, we performed the same determinations on baseline and week‐52 liver needle‐biopsy specimens from eight patients enrolled in a clinical trial and evaluated the association between intrahepatic HBV DNA levels and serological and virological endpoints. In most patients, levels of intrahepatic HBV DNA, including cccDNA, decreased over the 52‐week study, regardless of therapy or serological outcome. Higher ratios of cccDNA to total HBV DNA were detected at week 52 than at baseline indicating a shift in predominance of nonreplicating virus in posttreatment specimens. In patients who achieved treatment‐related or spontaneous hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) responses, including those harbouring tyrosine‐methionine‐aspartate‐aspartate‐mutant HBV, levels of intrahepatic and serum HBV DNA suppression were greater than those in patients without HBeAg responses. In conclusion, this pilot study of intrahepatic HBV replicative forms in patients with chronic hepatitis B indicated that total intrahepatic and, specifically, cccDNA levels are not static but change as a reflection of serological and virological events.
Adaptational modification and ligand occupancy have opposite effects on positioning of the transmembrane signalling helix of a chemoreceptor
Authors: Lai Wing‐Cheung , Beel Bryan D. , Hazelbauer Gerald L.
Published: July 2006

Sensory systems adapt to persistent stimulation. In the transmembrane receptors of bacterial chemotaxis, adaptation is mediated by methylation at specific glutamyl residues in the cytoplasmic domain. Methylation counteracts effects of ligand binding on functional activities of that domain. Both ligand binding and adaptational modification are thought to act through conformational changes. As characterized for Escherichia coli chemoreceptors, a mechanistically crucial feature of the ligand‐induced conformational change is piston sliding towards the cytoplasm of a signalling helix in the periplasmic/transmembrane domain. Adaptational modification could counteract this signalling movement by blocking its influence on the cytoplasmic domain or by reversing it. To investigate, we characterized effects of adaptational modification on the position of the signalling helix in chemoreceptor Trg using rates of disulphide formation between introduced cysteines. We utilized an intact cell procedure in which receptors were in their native, functional state. In vivo rates of disulphide formation between diagnostic cysteine pairs spanning a signalling helix interface changed as a function of adaptational modification. Strikingly, those changes were opposite those caused by ligand occupancy for each diagnostic pair tested. This suggests that adaptational modification resets the receptor complex to its null state by reversal of the conformational change generated by ligand binding.
Dual role of isocitrate lyase 1 in the glyoxylate and methylcitrate cycles in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Gould Ty A. , Van De Langemheen Helmus , Muñoz‐Elías Ernesto J. , McKinney John D. , Sacchettini James C.
Published: July 2006

The role of isocitrate lyase (ICL) in the glyoxylate cycle and its necessity for persistence and virulence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis has been well described. Recent reports have alluded to an additional role for this enzyme in M. tuberculosis metabolism, specifically for growth on propionate. A product of β‐oxidation of odd‐chain fatty acids is propionyl‐CoA. Clearance of propionyl‐CoA and the by‐products of its metabolism via the methylcitrate cycle is vital due to their potentially toxic effects. Although the genome of M. tuberculosis encodes orthologues of two of the three enzymes of the methylcitrate cycle, methylcitrate synthase and methylcitrate dehydratase, it does not appear to contain a distinct 2‐methylisocitrate lyase (MCL). Detailed structural analysis of the MCL from Escherichia coli suggested that the differences in substrate specificity between MCLs and ICLs could be attributed to three conserved amino acid substitutions in the active site, suggesting an MCL signature. However, here we provide enzymatic evidence that shows that despite the absence of the MCL signature, ICL1 from M. tuberculosis can clearly function as a MCL. Furthermore, the crystal structure of ICL1 with pyruvate and succinate bound demonstrates that the active site can accommodate the additional methyl group without significant changes to the structure.
Cross validation of the Turkish version of dermatology life quality index
Authors: Öztürkcan Serap , Ermertcan Aylin Türel , Eser Erhan , Turhan Şahin Mustafa
Published: July 2006

Background  The aim of this study was to test the linguistic validation of the Turkish version of the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) for Turkish speaking dermatology patients.

Methods  The DLQI is a 10‐item dermatology specific index developed originally in English. The methodology of this study consists of four consecutive sections: Translation, cognitive debriefing, field testing and statistical analysis. Translation steps: (a) Two forward independent translations into Turkish, (b) reconciliation of these translations by a dermatologist, (c) backward translation of the consensus Turkish version by a bilingual person into its original language (English), (d) and comparing the original questionnaire with the backward translated one. Cognitive debriefing: Sessions were performed on five patients from each of the seven different dermatological diagnosis groups. Field testing: The final Turkish version on which the face validity was approved by specialists on a total of 79 inpatients/outpatients with various dermatological diagnoses treated at Celal Bayar University Hospital. Statistical analysis: Internal consistency (using Cronbach a) and item–total score correlations (Pearson correlation) were used for reliability analysis. Validity analysis was carried out by construct testing (principal components factor analysis), convergent (Pearson correlation) and (discriminate Student's t‐test and Mann–Whitney U‐test) validity, and SF‐36 was used in parallel with DLQI in order to test convergent validity. The data were analyzed by the SPSS version 10.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) statistical package.

Results  The mean age of the patients in the study was 30.77 ± 15.91 years; the mean score of DLQI was 7.61 ± 6.12. The median of item–total correlation coefficient was found to be 0.66, within a range of 0.48–0.81. The internal consistency of the index was found to be highly sufficient (α = 0.85). The DLQI was found to be highly related to the physical domain of SF‐36. Life quality score was found to be significantly low for the inpatients compared with outpatients (differential validity).

Conclusion  It was found that the Turkish version of the DLQI was an acceptable index for dermatologists and dermatology patients and, moreover, to be valid and reliable in a cross‐sectional level. The responsiveness of the Turkish version of the DLQI needs to be tested further on a variety of dermatological conditions with different severities.
Caffeine consumption and methotrexate dosing requirement in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Swanson David L. , Barnes Sunni A. , Mengden Koon Stephanie J. , El‐Azhary Rokea A.
Published: July 2006

Background  Recent animal and human studies have suggested that the therapeutic benefit of methotrexate in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis may be substantially reduced in patients who are concomitantly consuming caffeine. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of caffeine consumption on the methotrexate dosing requirements in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Methods  One hundred and fifty patients with diagnoses of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis were surveyed for their current weekly methotrexate dosage and their usual daily consumption of caffeine.

Results  Seventy‐five of the patients given the survey responded; of these, 11 were eliminated because they did not report their methotrexate dosage or were no longer taking methotrexate. Of the remaining 64 patients, no correlation was found between the methotrexate dosage needed for disease maintenance and the amount of caffeine consumed.

Conclusions  Our findings suggest that caffeine does not affect methotrexate dosage requirements in patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. These results do not rule out an effect of caffeine in other inflammatory diseases treated with methotrexate.
Spectrophotometric intracutaneous analysis in the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma: a pilot study
Authors: Tehrani Hamid , Walls Joe , Cotton Symon , Sassoon Elaine , Hall Per
Published: July 2006

Background  The SIAscope is a portable imaging device that uses a hand‐held unit to emit light of varying wavelengths when placed on the skin. The components of skin absorb light to known extents and any reflected light is received by the hand‐held unit. This information is processed by the SIAscope software to produce images on a computer screen, displaying the melanin, blood, and collagen in the area of concern.

Hypothesis/aims  Previous research has shown the SIAscope to be both highly sensitive and specific for melanoma diagnosis. The SIAscope has not, however, been previously investigated for nonmelanoma skin cancer diagnosis. We therefore conducted a pilot study to investigate such potential.

Methods  Having gained ethical approval, 20 consecutive lesions were scanned using the SIAscope, and the images were examined for features that may be indicative of nonmelanoma skin cancer.

Results  The findings of branched vessels and vascular “flare” were indicative of a lesion being a basal cell carcinoma. Focal paleness and collagen changes were less specific in this study, but may prove to be valuable features in further studies.

Conclusions  This pilot study implies that the SIAscope may indeed provide an accurate method for basal cell carcinoma diagnosis by identifying features specific for such lesions. Further studies to investigate nonmelanoma skin cancer diagnosis, and to explore any potential to differentiate between basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas and between superficial and thicker basal cell carcinomas by the SIAscope, are warranted.
What are the key attributes of primary care for patients? Building a conceptual ‘map’ of patient preferences
Authors: Cheraghi‐Sohi Sudeh , Bower Peter , Mead Nichola , McDonald Ruth , Whalley Diane , Roland Martin
Published: July 2006

Background  Responding to the preferences of patients is a key focus of current health policy and is especially important in primary care. Responding effectively to patient preferences requires a clear understanding of the way in which patients assess primary care services.

Objective  This study was designed to provide a ‘map’ of the content and structure of the key attributes of patient preferences concerning primary care.

Design  The development of the ‘map’ used secondary research methods. Electronic databases were searched for published conceptual reviews of patient preferences, which were used to develop a basic ‘map’ through content analysis. A search for recently published primary empirical studies of patient preferences was conducted to extend and develop the ‘map’. The ‘map’ was tested by taking a random sample of patient assessment instruments and categorizing the item content.

Results  Seven major categories and multiple subcategories were described. The major categories were access, technical care, interpersonal care, patient‐centredness, continuity, outcomes, and hotel aspects of care. The coverage of these attributes in a selection of patient assessment instruments varied widely, and the coding of a proportion of items in the patient assessment instruments according to the ‘map’ was problematic.

Conclusions  The conceptual ‘map’ can be used to plan comprehensive assessment of patient preferences in primary care. It also raises many theoretical issues concerning the nature of attributes and their interrelationships. The implications for the measurement of patient preferences are discussed.