bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutations in gastrointestinal stromal tumors – a population‐based study from Northern Norway
Authors: STEIGEN SONJA E. , EIDE TOR J. , WASAG BARTOSZ , LASOTA JERZY , MIETTINEN MARKKU
Published: May 2007

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal tumor of the gastrointestinal tract. This tumor typically expresses KIT, and has KIT or PDGFRA activating mutation. In this study we evaluated 89 GISTs diagnosed in Northern Norway during a 30‐year period. KIT exons 8, 9, 11, 13, and 17 were analyzed by PCR amplification and direct sequencing. Subsequently PDGRA exons 12, 14, and 18 were evaluated in KIT wild‐type cases. KIT mutations were found in 66 cases (75%), and PDGFRA mutations in 9 cases (10%). Most common were KIT exon 11 mutations, with 58 cases. Tumors with Kit exon 11 point mutations had a significantly better prognosis than those with deletions. There were five KIT exon 9 duplications, three exon 13 point mutations, and one point mutation in exon 17. There were nine PDGFGRA mutations: seven in exon 18 and two in exon 12. All but one PDGFRA mutant GISTs were gastric tumors with epithelioid morphology, and these tumors were on average smaller than those with KIT mutations. KIT and PDGFRA wild type was found in 15% of cases. Analysis of KIT and PDGFRA mutations is of significance for treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and may also have value when assessing the biological potential of GIST.
Secretagogin expression in tumours of the human brain and its coverings
Authors: PIPP IRIS , WAGNER LUDWIG , RÖSSLER KARL , BUDKA HERBERT , PREUSSER MATTHIAS
Published: May 2007

Secretagogin is a recently described calcium‐binding protein, which is expressed in some neurons of the human brain. In this study we systematically investigated secretagogin expression in 245 tumours of the human brain and its coverings using immunohistochemistry. We found focal or widespread secretagogin expression in tumour cells in 1/18 oligoastrocytomas, 1/19 oligodendrogliomas, 2/20 anaplastic oligodendrogliomas, 2/9 ependymomas, 2/11 anaplastic ependymomas, 2/10 glioblastomas, 3/11 gangliogliomas and 1/2 anaplastic gangliogliomas, 10/10 central neurocytomas, 5/10 classic medulloblastomas, 4/5 desmoplastic medulloblastomas, 3/5 large cell/anaplastic medulloblastomas, 3/5 neuroblastomas, 3/10 meningiomas, 2/10 haemangioblastomas, and 13/19 pituitary adenomas. Further, we observed secretagogin expression in endothelial cells in 5/10 meningiomas, 2/5 haemangiopericytomas, and 2/10 haemangioblastomas. We detected no secretagogin expression in fibrillary astrocytoma, pilocytic astrocytoma, DNT, pineocytoma, pineoblastoma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA), atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumour (AT/RT), or primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). We conclude that secretagogin is differentially expressed in human neuronal, glial, and embryonal brain tumours, meningial neoplasms and pituitary adenomas. Our findings indicate that secretagogin is involved in the calcium metabolism of tumour cells and endothelial cells in a subset of neoplasms of the brain and its coverings. Anti‐secretagogin immunohistochemistry does not seem to be helpful in most differential diagnostic situations in surgical neuropathology.
Spontaneous rupture of a benign giant adrenal adenoma
Authors: DENZINGER STEFAN , BURGER MAXIMILIAN , HARTMANN ARNDT , HOFSTAEDTER FERDINAND , WIELAND WOLF F. , GANZER ROMAN
Published: May 2007

We report on a 50‐year‐old patient with a giant benign adenoma of the adrenal cortex, which ruptured spontaneously, leading to life‐threatening retroperitoneal hemorrhage. Following emergency adrenalectomy with sparing of the ipsilateral kidney, an adenoma of the adrenal cortex with a diameter of 18 cm and a weight of 1400 g was found. A detailed literature search showed this to be the largest benign tumor of the adrenal cortex described so far. We discuss the diagnosis and treatment of this unusual tumor.
Clinical models that objectively evaluate interproximal plaque based on total protein concentration
Authors: Milanovich N. , Souza S. M. , De Jager M. , Hefti A. F.
Published: May 2007

Aim: To establish clinical models that accurately and objectively assess the levels of interproximal plaque (IPP) by measuring the total protein concentration.

Material and Methods: The multiple treatment (MTM) and single‐treatment models (STM) were designed as randomized, double‐blinded, crossover studies whereby IPP was collected using floss. The total protein concentration in the plaque was then measured using a fluorescence microplate assay. To demonstrate sensitivity, the levels of residual IPP were compared for two distinctly different plaque removal routines: brushing versus brushing+flossing.

Results: Eighteen subjects completed the study for the MTM, while 16 participants completed the study for the STM. The results showed that both models were able to distinguish between treatments. Moreover, fundamental profiles were established that describe the mean changes in the IPP concentration over time and by treatment. Finally, a comparison between our results and a direct measure of IPP, i.e., plaque weight, demonstrated the potential of using protein as a quantitative means to assess IPP levels.

Conclusion: The MTM and STM provide an objective, quantitative assessment of IPP based on the total protein concentration in plaque.
A review of the current literature on management of halitosis
Authors: Van Den Broek AMWT , Feenstra L , De Baat C
Published: May 2007

Halitosis is an unpleasant or offensive odour, emanating from the oral cavity. In approximately 80% of all cases, halitosis is caused by microbial degradation of oral organic substrates. Major degradation products are volatile sulphur‐containing compounds. In this review, the available management methods of halitosis and their effectiveness and significance are presented and discussed. Undoubtedly, the basic management is mechanically reducing the amount of micro‐organisms and substrates in the oral cavity. Masking products are not, and antimicrobial ingredients in oral healthcare products are only temporary effective in reducing micro‐organisms or their substrates. Good short‐term results were reported with chlorhexidine. Triclosan seems less effective, essential oils and cetylpyridinium chloride are only effective up to 2 or 3 h. Metal ions and oxidizing agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, chlorine dioxide and iminium are active in neutralizing volatile sulphur‐containing compounds. Zinc seems to be an effective safe metal at concentrations of at least 1%. The effectiveness of active ingredients in oral healthcare products is dependent on their concentration and above a certain concentration the ingredients can have unpleasant side effects. Tonsillectomy might be indicated if (i) all other causes of halitosis are managed properly; (ii) halitosis still persists and (iii) crypts in tonsils are found to contain malodorous substrates.
Activity‐dependent changes of the hippocampal CA3–CA1 synapse during the acquisition of associative learning in conscious mice
Authors: Gruart A. , Delgado‐García J. M.
Published: May 2007

Contemporary neuroscientists are paying increasing attention to subcellular, molecular and electrophysiological mechanisms underlying learning and memory processes. Recent efforts have addressed the development of transgenic mice affected at different stages of the learning process, or emulating pathological conditions involving cognition and motor‐learning capabilities. However, a parallel effort is needed to develop stimulating and recording techniques suitable for use in behaving mice, in order to grasp activity‐dependent neural changes taking place during the very moment of the process. Thesein vivomodels should integrate the fragmentary information collected by different molecular andin vitroapproaches. In this regard, long‐term potentiation (LTP) has been proposed as the neural mechanism underlying synaptic plasticity. Moreover,N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors are accepted as the molecular substrate of LTP. It now seems necessary to study the relationship of both LTP and NMDA receptors with the plastic changes taking place, in selected neural structures, during actual learning. Here, we review data on the involvement of the hippocampal CA3–CA1 synapse in the acquisition of classically conditioned eyelid conditioned responses (CRs) in behaving mice. Available data show that LTP, evoked by high‐frequency stimulation of Schaffer collaterals, disturbs both the acquisition of CRs and the physiological changes that occur at the CA3–CA1 synapse during learning. Moreover, the administration of NMDA‐receptor antagonists is able not only to prevent LTP inductionin vivo, but also to hinder the formation of both CRs and functional changes in strength of the CA3–CA1 synapse. Thus, there is experimental evidence relating activity‐dependent synaptic changes taking place during actual learning with LTP mechanisms and with the role of NMDA receptors in both processes.
The Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome: modeling mental impairment in the mouse
Authors: Barco A.
Published: May 2007

Mental impairment syndromes are diagnosed based on below‐average general intellectual function originated during developmental periods. Intellectual abilities rely on the capability of our brain to obtain, process, store and retrieve information. Advances in the past decade on the molecular basis of memory have led to a better understanding of how a normal brain works but also have shed new light on our understanding of many pathologies of the nervous system, including diverse syndromes involving mental impairment. The recent multidisciplinary analysis of various mouse models for Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome has shown the power of animal models to produce an important leap forward in our understanding of a complex mental disease while simultaneously opening new avenues for its treatment. These studies also suggest that some of the cognitive and physiological deficits observed in mental impairment syndromes may not simply be caused by defects originated during development but may result from the continued requirement of specific enzymatic activities throughout life.
Developmental mechanisms and experimental models to understand forebrain malformative diseases
Authors: Pombero A. , Valdes L. , Vieira C. , Martinez S.
Published: May 2007

The development of the central nervous system can be divided into a number of phases, each of which can be subject of genetic or epigenetic alterations that may originate particular developmental disorders. In recent years, much progress has been made in elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the vertebrate forebrain develops. Therefore, our understanding of major developmental brain disorders such as cortical malformations and neuronal migration disorders has significantly increased. In this review, we will describe the major stages in forebrain morphogenesis and regionalization, with special emphasis on developmental molecular mechanisms derailing telencephalic development with subsequent damage to cortical function. Because animal models, mainly mouse, have been fundamental for this progress, we will also describe some characteristic mouse models that have been capital to explore these molecular mechanisms of malformative diseases of the human brain. Although most of the genes involved in the regulation of basic developmental processes are conserved among vertebrates, the extrapolation of mouse data to corresponding gene expression and function in humans needs careful individual analysis in each functional system.
Strain‐ and region‐specific gene expression profiles in mouse brain in response to chronic nicotine treatment
Authors: Wang J. , Gutala R. , Hwang Y. Y. , Kim J.‐M. , Konu O. , Ma J. Z. , Li M. D.
Published: May 2007

A pathway‐focused complementary DNA microarray and gene ontology analysis were used to investigate gene expression profiles in the amygdala, hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, prefrontal cortex (PFC) and ventral tegmental area of C3H/HeJ and C57BL/6J mice receiving nicotine in drinking water (100 μg/ml in 2% saccharin for 2 weeks). A balanced experimental design and rigorous statistical analysis have led to the identification of 3.5–22.1% and 4.1–14.3% of the 638 sequence‐verified genes as significantly modulated in the aforementioned brain regions of the C3H/HeJ and C57BL/6J strains, respectively. Comparisons of differential expression among brain tissues showed that only a small number of genes were altered in multiple brain regions, suggesting presence of a brain region‐specific transcriptional response to nicotine. Subsequent principal component analysis and Expression Analysis Systematic Explorer analysis showed significant enrichment of biological processes both in C3H/HeJ and C57BL/6J mice, i.e. cell cycle/proliferation, organogenesis and transmission of nerve impulse. Finally, we verified the observed changes in expression using real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction for six representative genes in the PFC region, providing an independent replication of our microarray results. Together, this report represents the first comprehensive gene expression profiling investigation of the changes caused by nicotine in brain tissues of the two mouse strains known to exhibit differential behavioral and physiological responses to nicotine.
Women and English Renaissance Drama: Making and Unmaking ‘The All‐Male Stage’
Authors: McManus Clare
Published: May 2007

We can no longer refer to ‘the all‐male stage’ of Renaissance drama without a qualifying remark about the many performing women of early modern England. Over the past decade or so the combined efforts of feminism, gender studies and historicised archival work have shown that Shakespearean theatre was by no means an all‐male pursuit in which women were represented only by transvestite boy actors. Recent research has uncovered a diverse and energetic range of female performers beyond the single‐sex playhouse stages of Shakespearean London and has shown women to have a crucial role in early modern theatre. This article considers how the emergence of the woman player as a subject of study has changed the way that we think and write about Shakespearean drama. In particular, women's performance challenges the central critical paradigms of ‘the all‐male’ and ‘the English stage’, while the plays of Shakespeare, Jonson and other canonical authors are changed by our new understanding of women's theatricality.
The Silver‐Fork Novel across Romantic and Victorian Views: Class, Gender and Commodity Culture, 1820–1841
Authors: O’Cinneide Muireann
Published: May 2007

This article considers changing critical perceptions of the literature of the period between the 1820s and the 1840s, in particular the popular ‘silver‐fork’ or fashionable novel. Greater awareness of the class dynamics of the era has significant implications for our understanding, both of the genre itself, and of the wider relationships between literature, class, gender and politics in the decades before and after Reform. I discuss scholarship on the central tensions of the genre between upper‐class status and middle‐class readerships; the models of authorship this produces; the lines of literary descent revealed through the genre; and finally the construction of the genre as commodity and the relation of this to the figure of the dandy. Finally, I suggest directions in which further research is likely to tend. These questions are part and parcel of a more general overall re‐evaluation taking place in nineteenth‐century studies of the border lines between Romanticism and Victorianism. Re‐considering the silver‐fork novel, therefore, is not simply a matter of discussing an obscure genre, but a way into the central literary concerns of a crucial period for our understanding of the nineteenth century.
Determining priorities for research in ageing: A community survey
Authors: Byles Julie , Parkinson Lynne , Nair Balakrishnan (Kichu) , Watson Jane , Valentine Megan
Published: May 2007

Objectives:  This paper reports the culmination of a local process of priority setting for ageing research.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional random community mailout was conducted across 1500 Hunter region, Australia, households during 2001, using the modified Dillman procedures. The survey included 38 research topics and priority items. Research priorities were grouped according to factors identified by factor analysis.

Results:  There were 694 respondents. Four research priority factors were identified: age‐related diseases, symptoms and problems of ageing, lifestyle factors, and mental and social issues of ageing. Top‐rating priorities were stroke, dementia, heart disease and cancer. Overall, more women and older people (65+ years) ranked items as very important. Lifestyle factors were mentioned most often as the most important health and social issues facing older people.

Conclusions:  Community views should be considered where evidence and researcher interest can support this.
Validating an Australian version of the Time and Change Test: A screening test for cognitive impairment
Authors: Nair Balakrishnan R , Browne William Lee , Chua Ling‐Ern , D’Este Catherine , O'Dea Ian , Agho Kingsley
Published: May 2007

Objectives:  The ‘Time and Change Test’– a brief cognitive screening test has been validated in several countries to assess cognitive impairment. We attempted to validate an Australian version of the test among hospital inpatients.

Methods:  One hundred and thirty patients consented to participate in the study. They underwent an assessment for a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV) diagnosis for dementia or delirium, the Mini‐Mental State Examination and the Time and Change Test.

Results:  The Time and Change Test had a sensitivity of 44% (95% CI; 23%, 66%) and a specificity of 90% (**80%, 96%) for a DSM IV diagnosis of dementia or delirium.

Conclusions:  This version of the Time and Change was less sensitive than other versions. The sensitivity of the test came from the change component, and reduced complexity of this task may account for this finding. We recommend study of a more complex change‐making test as a screening tool for cognitive impairment.
Visual impairment in an aged care ward
Authors: Rush Katherine , Dillon Louise , Scharf Simon
Published: May 2007

Introduction:  Visual impairment is common in older people, and is a risk factor for falls and hip fractures, reduced independence and quality of life.

Objectives:  To assess the prevalence and causes of visual impairment in an aged care ward, and to evaluate whether routine eye assessment, and referral to an eye specialist was worthwhile to detect patients with low vision that could be correctable.

Method:  Clinical eye examination of 100 consecutive inpatients and review of medical records. Patients with a new diagnosis of visual impairment were referred for ophthalmology or optometry assessment.

Results:  The prevalence of low vision was 36% and the prevalence of blindness was 9%. There were 18 patients referred for specialist review, three patients were recommended a new treatment but only two received treatment.

Conclusion:  Visual impairment was prevalent. Although refractive error and cataracts were common, in only a few cases did detection and specialist referral lead to improved visual outcomes.
Social capital among older residents of a coastal resort: A survey of social resources and vulnerabilities
Authors: Barr Felicity , Russell Cherry
Published: May 2007

Objective:  To document the characteristics and social networks of older residents of a coastal resort, as part of a qualitative study of their social capital.

Methods:  A 15‐item questionnaire was mailed to a sample of 200 Seniors’ Card holders, stratified by age and gender, resident in three postcodes in coastal New South Wales. While the purpose of the survey was to recruit volunteers for interviews, analysis of the 103 responses provided useful data about broad characteristics of the sample group. This paper presents results of this analysis.

Results:  The most common form of household was the couple without children and most respondents were optimistic about the availability of help from family and friends. Gender and age differences were identified in rates of living alone, having relatives nearby, going out, belonging to clubs and associations, volunteering and use of transport.

Conclusion:  Variations in social patterns both reflect and foreshadow the vulnerability of individuals to changes in life circumstances.
Contrasting copper evolution in ω Centauri and the Milky Way
Authors: Romano Donatella , Matteucci Francesca
Published: May 2007

Despite the many studies on stellar nucleosynthesis published so far, the scenario for the production of copper in stars remains elusive. In particular, it is still debated whether copper originates mostly in massive stars or in Type Ia supernovae. To answer this question, we compute self-consistent chemical evolution models taking into account the results of updated stellar nucleosynthesis. By contrasting copper evolution in ω Cen and the Milky Way, we end up with a picture where massive stars are the major factor responsible for the production of copper in ω Cen as well as the Galactic disc.
POSITIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF FATTY ACIDS IN TRIACYLGLYCEROLS OF SEAL BLUBBER OIL
Authors: WANASUNDARA UDAYA N. , SHAHIDI FEREIDOON
Published: May 2007

The positional distribution of long‐chain ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the triacylglycerol (TAG) molecules of seal blubber oil was determined and compared with that of commercially available menhaden oil via stereospecific analysis. In seal blubber oil, EPA, DPA and DHA occurred mainly in the sn‐1 and sn‐3 positions of the TAG molecules. The amounts were EPA, 8.36 and 11.2; DPA, 3.99 and 8.21; and DHA, 10.5 and 17.9%, respectively. In menhaden oil, DPA and DHA occurred mainly in the sn‐2 position of the TAG at 3.11 and 17.2%, respectively. However, EPA was equally distributed in the sn‐2 and sn‐3 positions and was present only in minute amounts in the sn‐1 position.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF WHEAT CARYOPSES AND EMBRYOS EXTRACTS
Authors: AMAROWICZ R. , KARAMAC M. , WEIDNER S. , ABE S. , SHAHIDI F.
Published: May 2007

Phenolic compounds were extracted with 80% methanol from caryopses and embryos of wheat (cv. Alba and Elena). In extracts the content of total phenolics was determined and UV spectra recorded. For all extracts the antioxidant activity in a β‐carotene‐linoleate model system, scavenging effect on DPPH radical, and reducing power were examined. Extracts of wheat embryos were characterized by a higher content of total phenolics. UV spectra of phenolic compounds extracted from wheat caryopses were characterized by maxima close to 320 nm due to phenolic acids, and by maxima at shorter wavelengths (272–280 nm) attributed to other phenolic compounds. The antioxidant activities of extracts from caryopses in a β‐carotene‐linoleate model system were higher than those from embryos. The results so obtained were similar to those observed previously for extracts of rye and triticale grains and leguminous seeds. The scavenging effect of wheat extracts on DPPH radical and their reduction power were weak, but those for embryos extracts were somewhat stronger.
COMPARISON OF WET‐CHEMICAL METHODS FOR DETERMINATION OF LIPID HYDROPEROXIDES
Authors: NIELSEN NINA SKALL , TIMM‐HEINRICH MAIKE , JACOBSEN CHARLOTTE
Published: May 2007

Five methods for determination of lipid hydroperoxides were evaluated, including two iodometric procedures involving a titration and a spectrophotometric micro method, and three other spectrophotometric methods namely the ferro, International Dairy Federation (IDF) and FOX2 (ferrous oxidation in xylenol orange). Peroxide values determined in a range of food products by these five methods gave different results. The ferro method required large amounts of solvent (50 mL/sample); the FOX2 method had a low range (0.005–0.04 μmol hydroperoxide); the end point detection of the titration method was subjective and required a large amount of sample (1 g); and the micro method was sensitive to interruptions during execution. Therefore, only the modified IDF method was chosen for further testing and validation. Stability tests of the standard curve showed a variation coefficient of 4% and within runs the highest variation was 5.9% (for blank) and a maximum of 9.6% between runs variation for the lowest concentration. Among the antioxidants tested, only ethylenedi‐aminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) affected the peroxide determinations.
OPTIMIZATION OF ALGIN/CALCIUM BINDER IN RESTRUCTURED BEEF
Authors: ENSOR STUART A. , SOFOS JOHN N. , SCHMIDT GLENN R.
Published: May 2007

Optimal use of ingredients can affect both the functionality and economics of meat products. The effects of 0–0.8% sodium alginate (algin), 0–0.15% calcium carbonate, 0–1.2% encapsulated lactic acid, 0–0.18% dry lactic acid, 0–0.12% calcium lactate and 0–0.3% palm oil on raw and cooked bind, discoloration, flavor, mouthfeel, aroma, cook yield and pH of restructured beef were studied. A formulation of 0.4% algin, 0.075% calcium carbonate and 0.6% lactate was optimal based on product characteristics and quantity of ingredients added. Inferior products resulted from the use of individual components of commercial lactate or the exclusion of calcium carbonate from the formulation.
FLAVOR ATTRIBUTES AND MICROBIAL LEVELS OF FRESH BEEF ROASTS COOKED WITH VARYING FOODSERVICE METHODOLOGY1
Authors: BELK K.E. , MILLER R.K. , EVANS L.L. , LIU S.P. , ACUFF G.R.
Published: May 2007

Effects of cooking rate, fat trim level, endpoint temperature, and postcooking holding time on the flavor and microbial population of beef roasts were evaluated when cooked in four types of ovens to develop cooking guidelines for foodservice. Desirable flavor notes were not affected by cooking rate or postcooking holding time. When cooked to any desired degree of doneness, only minimal levels of external fat were required to attain desirable flavor. Cooked temperature end‐point and oven type played the largest roles in flavor development. Production of flavor compounds associated with mouthfeel scores (metallic and astringent) can be controlled by management of cooking methodologies. Most microorganisms were destroyed during cooking, but increased fat trim levels produced higher aerobic plate counts, and endpoint temperatures in excess of 54.4C were required to assure adequate kill percentages. Of 192 roasts held after cooking for 8 h (54.4C), only four contained detectable C. perfringens.
PORK CHAIN QUALITY AUDIT SURVEY: QUANTIFICATION OF PORK QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS1
Authors: CANNON J.E. , MORGAN J.B. , MCKEITH F.K. , SMITH G.C. , SONKA S. , HEAVNER J. , MEEKER D.L.
Published: May 2007

As part of the Pork Chain Quality Audit, pork manufacturing companies were surveyed to identify and quantify factors influencing pork quality. Surveys were designed to evaluate the quality of pork at the slaughter and fabrication segments of the chain. Meat firms provided information based on 57% of the 88 million barrows and gilts slaughtered in federally inspected plants in 1992. All major hog‐producing areas of the U.S. were represented. Results of the survey indicated that the primary concerns about the quality of pork at the packing level were: (1) excessive fat; (2) inadequate muscle‐color/water‐holding‐capacity; (3) inconsistent live weights; (4) too many abscesses; and (5) excessive bruising. The results of the survey were used to determine costs associated with quality deficiencies. It was determined that $10.10 or approximately 10% of the live‐animal value is lost per slaughter barrow/gilt due to quality nonconformities.
IMMUNOASSAYS FOR DETERMINATION OF ENDPOINT PROCESSING TEMPERATURES IN POULTRY AND BEEF PRODUCTS1
Authors: SMITH D.M. , DESROCHER L.D.
Published: May 2007

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) requires that meat and poultry products be processed to specific minimum endpoint temperatures (EPT) to ensure destruction of pathogens. Several enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), using antibodies that recognize different indicator proteins, were developed to verify minimum EPT in several products. These assays are highly specific and can be used by minimally trained personnel to rapidly verify EPT without the need for separation steps or sophisticated scientific equipment necessary with other EPT assays. A sandwich ELISA, using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as the marker protein, was used to verify EPT of turkey breast rolls and turkey ham. Two other indirect competitive ELISAs, detecting turkey serum albumin and Immunoglobulin G, were compared for their ability to verify minimum EPT in turkey ham. Self‐contained ELISA field kits can be devised to verify compliance to USDA minimum temperatures in about 30 min or less.
EFFECT OF A KAPPA CARRAGEENAN/LOCUST BEAN GUM MIXTURE ON BIND AND COOKING LOSS IN HIGH MANNURONATE ALGINATE RESTRUCTURED BEEF
Authors: NIELSEN HENRIK T. , HØEGH LARS , MØLLER ANDERS J.
Published: May 2007

Raw and cooked bind properties, cooking loss and pH were evaluated when adding three levels (0%, 0.25%, 0.50%) of a kappa carrageenan and locust bean gum mixture (C/LBG) to finely and coarsely ground high mannuronate alginate restructured beef. Treatments included variable levels of the following dry additives: Alginate (0.50%‐1.00%), calcium carbonate (0.10%‐0.20%) and glucono‐delta‐lactone (GDL, 0%‐0.80%). Raw breaking strength of finely ground formulations was increased by elevated alginate levels (P<0.05), but was not affected by C/LBG addition (P>0.05). The effect of alginate and C/LBG on cooked bind properties depended on whether finely or coarsely ground meat was used. Sensory evaluations of coarsely ground treatments suggest that sufficient raw and cooked bind was achieved using 0.50% alginate, 0.10% calcium carbonate and 0.60% GDL. Addition of 0.50% C/LBG and/or 0.75% alginate to coarsely ground formulations further reduced cooking loss (P<0.05) by relatively 13% and 17%, respectively. No interaction between C/LBG and alginate was found (P>0.05).
EFFECTS OF SODIUM LACTATE AND SODIUM PHOSPHATE ON THE PHYSICAL AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF PUMPED PORK LOINS
Authors: SUTTON D.S. , BREWER M.S. , MCKEITH F.K.
Published: May 2007

Whole, boneless pork loins were pumped to result in a final concentration of 0% to 2% sodium lactate (SL) and/or 0% to 0.4% sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) resulting in a 3 × 3 factorial design. Three replications were randomly presented to 10 trained sensory panelists for evaluation. Physical properties of the loins were also evaluated. Sensory evaluation results suggested that there was a trend for juiciness and tenderness to be enhanced by the addition of STP. Pork flavor, salt intensity, and alkalinity were enhanced by SL. Pump yields increased while purge loss was reduced with the addition of STP. Color was not affected by SL or STP. No difference in peak force and energy required to shear samples was observed. Results from this study suggest that pork loins pumped with SL and STP had enhanced moisture retention with few detrimental effects on sensory characteristics.
SULFHYDRYLS IN ANTIOXIDANT‐WASHED BEEF HEART SURIMI1
Authors: SRINIVASAN S. , XIONG Y.L.
Published: May 2007

The role of water‐ and lipid‐soluble antioxidants (propyl gallate, PG; α‐tocopherol, α‐Toc; ascorbate, Asc; tripolyphosphate, TPP) in protecting sulfhydryls in beef heart surimi was assessed. Sulfhydryl content was measured by reacting surimi samples with 5–5′‐dithio‐bis(2‐nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB). Formation of disulfide linkages in fresh and stored (7 days on ice) surimi and its salted paste (sol) was examined by electrophoretic analysis in the presence and absence of dithiothreitol. Loss of sulfhydryls occurred during storage in control (water‐washed) and Asc‐washed surimi, but the loss was prevented by PG, α‐Toc, and TPP. Sulfhydryls were decreased in all samples except PG‐washed surimi by the addition of0.6 M NaCl. Formation of disulfide as well as nondisulfide covalent linkages was evident in control and Asc‐washed surimi samples. The nondisulfide linkages were almost completely absent in the presence of PG, α‐Toc, and TPP.
BIOPHYSICAL BASIS OF PALE, SOFT, EXUDATIVE (PSE) PORK AND POULTRY MUSCLE: A REVIEW
Authors: SOLOMON M.B. , VAN LAACK R.L.J.M. , EASTRIDGE J.S.
Published: May 2007

Problems with meat quality are usually caused by aberrations in the biochemistry and morphology of individual muscles, as well as by postmortem events. Poultry, like pigs, have been subjected to intense genetic selection for rapid lean muscle growth. The selection traits are most often associated with economic importance rather than biophysical significance, which often results in stress syndromes (e.g. porcine stress syndrome) and pale, soft, exudative (PSE) muscle conditions. The occurrence of PSE muscle and subsequent alterations in meat quality has been shown to be related to increases in muscle size, stressful preslaughter handling conditions, and rate of onset of rigor mortis. Morphological studies have revealed significant increases in fiber size, in addition to structural irregularities in PSE muscle. These structural irregularities include decreased capillary density, hypercontracted (giant) fibers, and myoplasmic calcium loading. The common theme between poultry and swine in the development of PSE muscle is predominately in anaerobic fast‐twitch muscles with low energy lactate metabolism yet accelerated onset of rigor mortis.
CHARACTERIZATION OF THE DIFFERENT STATES OF MYOGLOBIN IN PORK USING COLOR PARAMETERS AND REFLECTANCE RATIOS
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ‐LÓPEZ J. , PÉREZ‐ALVAREZ J.A. , SAYAS‐BARBERÁ E. , ARANDA‐CATALÁ V.
Published: May 2007

Because color is becoming more important to the food industry, color studies are being conducted to improve the control of both raw materials and processes. Several studies have pointed to the importance of the different states of myoglobin in determining the color changes which take place during processing. The aim of this study was to characterize the color parameters (CIE LAB coordinates, reflectance spectrum and reflectance ratios) of the three myoglobin forms (deoxymyoglobin, oxymyoglobin and metmyoglobin) in pork Subscapularis muscle. The deoxymyoglobin present in fresh pork lean meat was converted into the pure states, and color parameters (lightness, redness, yellowness, hue, chroma and a*/b* ratio), reflectance spectrum (400–700 nm) and reflectance ratios (R560/R500, R650/R570, R630/R580 and R630‐R580) were obtained. All the color parameters and reflectance ratios (except redness values) varied according to the state of the myoglobin.
INFLUENCE OF MOLDS ON FLAVOR QUALITY OF SPANISH HAM1
Authors: OCKERMAN H.W. , SÁNCHEZ F.J. CÉSPEDES , CRESPO F. LEÓN
Published: May 2007

Five molds strains belonging to the Penicillium genera, isolated from the surface of thirty Spanish hams were tested for flavor production on a meat substratum with a similar composition to the Spanish ham surface. All the samples were held at different temperatures (3, 8 and 12C) and relative humidities (75%, 85% and 95%) and evaluated by an eight member panel. Samples inoculated with P. aurantiogriseum and P. camemberti strains gave the highest flavor quality values; however, these values decreased when the incubation temperature was increased. According to this study the P. aurantiogriseum and P. camemberti isolated strains can serve as a base for the production of starters that may be used on Spanish traditional meat products.
SHEAR FORCE MAPPING: A TOOL FOR TENDERNESS MEASUREMENT1
Authors: ZUCKERMAN H. , BERRY B. W. , EASTRIDGE J.S. , SOLOMON M.B.
Published: May 2007

A shear mapping method (SMM) was developed and evaluated for examining objectively the effectiveness of tenderization processes for meat. One‐centimeter square cross section samples were cut parallel to the muscle fiber orientation across the complete cross sectional area of cooked strip loin steaks. Each sample was assigned a coordinate reference grid code that identified (“mapped”) its location within the steak. Shear force measurements within steaks were evaluated using the SMM procedure before and after applying the hydrodynamic pressure (HDP) tenderization process. The less tender the region within a control steak, the more it was tenderized after applying HDP, and HDP tenderization resulted in improved uniformity of tenderness. The suggested SMM method has the potential to minimize variations in technique among scientists and institutions and provides a tool for screening and testing the efficiency of tenderization processes by evaluating a larger proportion.
PHYSICAL AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF PRECOOKED, REHEATED PORK CHOPS WITH ENHANCEMENT SOLUTIONS
Authors: PRESTAT C. , JENSEN J. , ROBBINS K. , RYAN K. , ZHU L. , MCKEITH F.K. , BREWER M.S.
Published: May 2007

Pork loins were pumped to 110% of original weight with solutions containing 0.35% salt and 0.35% phosphate (P), salt and phosphate plus 3% sodium lactate (SL), or salt and phosphate plus 2.5% potassium lactate/potassium acetate (PL/PA). Chops were evaluated freshly cooked and precooked, stored (4C, 2 days) and reheated. Chops from SL and PL/PA chops experienced lower cook losses than unpumped controls. Reheating produced additional cook losses which were unaffected by enhancement treatment. Enhancement produced reheated chops with lower shear values and higher tenderness scores than those of freshly cooked controls, and addition of either SL or PL/PA produced even more dramatic results. Warmed‐over flavor after reheating precooked chops was reduced by the SL enhancement solution.
SIMULTANEOUS PCR DETECTION OF BACTERIA AND MOLD DNA SEQUENCES IN PHARMACEUTICAL SAMPLES BY USING A GRADIENT THERMOCYCLER
Authors: JIMENEZ LUIS
Published: May 2007

A gradient thermocycler, the Stratagene RoboCycler 96‐Gradient, was evaluated for the simultaneous PCR amplification of microbial genes which indicated the presence of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Aspergillus niger in pharmaceutical samples. Suspensions of pharmaceutical products were inoculated with pure cultures of bacteria and mold. After a 24 h incubation, bacterial DNA was extracted from each enrichment broth using a mild lysis in Tris‐EDTA‐Tween 20 buffer containing proteinase K while mold DNA was extracted by boiling the samples in Tris‐EDTA‐SDS buffer for 1 h. A 10 μL aliquots of extracted DNA was added to Ready‐To‐Go PCR beads and specific primers for E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa. However, 50 μL aliquots of extracted mold DNA were used for amplification of specific A. niger DNA sequences. The individual samples were loaded into the RoboCycler 96‐Gradient thermocycler. Simultaneous detection of all microbial genes was performed by using a gradient profile that allowed the use of DNA primers with different annealing temperatures. Standard methods for quality control evaluation of pharmaceutical products required 6–8 days while simultaneous PCR detection of bacteria and mold DNA sequences was completed within 27 h.
A NEW PCR METHOD OF CHARACTERIZING SEAFISH FRESHNESS
Authors: DUFLOS GUILLAUME , DEGREMONT SYLVIE , COPIN STEPHANIE , SANTOS JEAN‐PHILIPPE DOS , GIORDANO GERARD , MEJEAN VINCENT , MALLE PIERRE
Published: May 2007

Objective criteria used to assess the fish freshness in the laboratory are currently inadequate. During contamination of muscle tissue, bacteria reduce trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) to trimethylamine (TMA) in the absence of oxygen. Based on this reaction, we envisaged a new approach and have developed and optimized a PCR method which targets the tor A gene sequence that encodes TMAO reductase. We applied this method to two fish species (Whiting (Merlangus merlangus) and Pouting (Gadus luscus)) during monitoring of spoilage, in parallel with assay of TVBN and enumeration of total aerobic flora. The PCR results tally with the chemical and microbiological findings. Used in quantitative PCR, this method could characterize fish freshness.
ASSESSMENT OF AN ESCHERICHIA COLI METHIONINE AUXOTROPH GROWTH ASSAY FOR QUANTIFYING CRYSTALLINE METHIONINE SUPPLEMENTED IN POULTRY FEEDS
Authors: DÍAZ I.B. ZABALA , CARREON F.O.C. , ELLIS W.C. , RICKE S.C.
Published: May 2007

Estimating availability of methionine is relevant to feed formulation since diets can be supplemented with crystalline methionine to meet the minimum requirements of rapidly growing birds. Bacterial assays have been developed to measure the bioavailable levels of several essential amino acids in feeds, including methionine. The E. coli methionine auxotroph strain used in this study exhibited a linear extent of growth response to increasing concentrations of methionine added to the minimal test media, in the range of 0 to 4 μg/mL. In addition the growth rates of the E. coli auxotroph were significantly (P < 0.01) different when the methionine concentrations were varied (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 μg/mL) in minimal media. To assay feeds, feed grade methionine was added to poultry feed mixtures and samples were diluted with M9 media. Using this assay for estimating crystalline methionine added to feed, the extent of growth of the methionine auxotroph was correlated with the levels of crystalline methionine supplemented in the feed (R2= 0.9873). For all supplementation levels methionine recovery percentages ranged from 71 to 80% indicating that the bacterial assay response to crystalline methionine was relatively constant in the presence of the feed matrix. The overall results indicate that the rapid detection of crystalline methionine added to feeds is possible using this E. coli methionine auxotroph growth‐based assay.
SENSORY SPECIFIC SATIETY IN LEMONADE USING A JUST RIGHT SCALE FOR SWEETNESS1
Authors: VICKERS ZATA.
Published: May 2007

Lemonade samples varying in sucrose concentration (4‐15%) were evaluated by either a sip procedure (subjects tasted 10 mL samples) or a drink procedure (subjects consumed 60 mL samples) using a “just right” scale. The order of tasting the four lemonade samples was also balanced among subjects. Neither the amount of lemonade consumed during the test nor the sex of the subjects had an effect on the scores assigned to the samples or the just right sucrose concentration determined by linear regressions. The less pleasant samples (those scored farther from the just right point) showed sensory specific satiety evidenced by a shift away from the just right point on repeated tasting. Samples rated more pleasant or closer to the just right point did not show evidence of sensory specific satiety.
THE INFLUENCE OF TASTANTS ON ORAL IRRITATION BY CAPSAICIN
Authors: NASRAWI CHRISTINA W. , PANGBORN ROSE MARIE.
Published: May 2007

Single‐point intensity scaling and time‐intensity methods were used to record oral irritation from solutions of 2 ppm capsaicin, capsaicin with added sucrose (0.04M), NaCl (0.3M), citric acid (0.01M) or xanthan gum (0.2%). Only sucrose depressed mouth‐burn, both in magnitude and duration. The viscosity imparted by xanthan retarded perception of mouth‐burn but did not effect its duration. While single‐point scaling averaged perceived intensity across time, time‐intensity provided much more information by displaying perception from onset to decay. Eaters and non‐eaters of chili peppers did not differ in their perception of mouth‐burn.
CONTRIBUTIONS OF SELECTED FLAVOR COMPOUNDS TO THE SENSORY PROPERTIES OF MAPLE SYRUP1
Authors: BELFORD A. L. , LINDSAY R. C. , RIDLEY S. C.
Published: May 2007

A base syrup formulation containing nonvolatile flavor compounds was used to systematically evaluate the sensory contributions of selected volatile compounds (Furaneol, 2,5–dimethyl‐4‐hydroxy‐3(2H)‐furanone; sugar furanone, 4,5‐dimethyl‐3‐hydroxy‐2(5H)‐furanone; guaiacol, 2‐methoxy phenol; vanillin, 4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxy‐benzaldehyde) to maple syrup flavor. Descriptive sensory panels showed that all compounds contributed to maple flavor intensity, but sugar furanone was an exceptionally important determinant. Medium and dark amber syrups contained generally higher concentrations of the selected flavor compounds than the light amber syrup. 5′‐Inosine monophosphate was tentatively identified in maple syrup by HPLC analysis, and was found to contribute important taste characteristics to maple syrup. Consumer studies showed that more flavorful, darker grade A syrups were preferred over light amber grade A syrup.
EXTRACTING MORE INFORMATION FROM THE TRIANGLE TASK
Authors: STILLMAN JENNIFER A. , IRWIN R. JOHN
Published: May 2007

In a recent paper Berglund et al. (1993) applied the triangle task in conjunction with economic incentives to assess the bias and sensitivity of panelists discriminating between food and beverage products. A re‐examination of the data from that study casts doubt on their interpretation of the results. Detection theory analyses of performance in sensory difference tests are increasingly used in food science and, where appropriate, permit independent bias and sensitivity measures to be extracted from discrimination data without the additional costs associated with the economic incentives test.
GROWTH ACCOUNTING FOR SRI LANKA'S AGRICULTURE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO FERTILIZER AND NONAGRICULTURAL PRICES: DO POLICY REFORMS AFFECT AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT?
Authors: YAMAGUCHI Mitoshi , SANKER SriGowri
Published: May 2007

The agricultural sector of Sri Lanka reacted sharply to the highly contentious policy reforms called Structural Adjustment Programs. We used a four‐sector general equilibrium model under a growth accounting approach to find out the effect of the policy (exogenous) variable on the target (endogenous) variable. Here, we considered only the most important variables, and the overall results indicate that policy changes are favorable to overall agricultural development, although their effect on the domestic food sector is negative. The most serious negative determinant under the policy changes relates to fertilizer, and our study indicates that fertilizer prices considerably affect agricultural production; it especially has a negative effect on domestic food production. Second, this paper analyzes the impact of nonagricultural price, finding that it positively helped the development of overall agriculture. Third, agricultural exports increased under the new policy reforms and made large contributions to agricultural production.