bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge of general dentists in the current guidelines for emergency treatment of avulsed teeth and dental trauma prevention
Authors: De Vasconcellos Luis Gustavo Oliveira , Brentel Aline Scalone , Vanderlei Aleska Dias , De Vasconcellos Luana Marotta Reis , Valera Márcia Carneiro , De Araújo Maria Amélia Máximo
Published: September 2009

Abstract –  A high prevalence of dental trauma exists and its effects on function and esthetics deserve the attention of general dentists. The aim of this study was to assess the level of general dental practitioners’ (GDPs) knowledge about guidelines for dental avulsion and its prevention using a questionnaire. The 21‐item questionnaire was distributed among 264 GDPs and the survey was realized between August–November 2006. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using descriptive analysis and Pearson’s Chi‐square test to determine associations between knowledge regarding emergency treatment and dentists from public or private dental schools and years of experience. The results showed that the participants exhibited appropriate knowledge concerning procedures in cases of tooth avulsion and its prevention. The number of correct answers was low in relation to recommended treatment at the site of injury. Storage medium, preparation of the alveolus and splint time for receiving the avulsed tooth received a high number of correct answers. One statistically significant association between years of experience and recommended treatment at the site of the injury in the case an avulsed tooth (χ2 = 9.384, P = 0.009). In conclusion, this survey showed appropriate knowledge of dental avulsion management and its prevention among the surveyed dentists. The findings also showed that communication between dentists and the population is deficient, especially concerning practitioners of high risk and contact sports.
Effectiveness and fabrication of mouthguards
Authors: Maeda Yoshinobu , Kumamoto David , Yagi Kazutomo , Ikebe Kazunori
Published: September 2009

Abstract –  Although mouthguards have been suggested as a means for preventing dental traumatic injuries, there are still some controversies over some aspects such as effectiveness in preventing concussions, material selections, method for fabrication, design, side effects and so on. The purpose of this literature review was to clarify differences in opinions with supporting evidence on these issues and find the best guidelines for promoting usage and providing mouthguards with better protective capability and fewer side effects such as difficulty in breathing and speaking.
Trends in the prevalence of traumatic dental injuries in Brazilian preschool children
Authors: Cunha Bonini Gabriela Azevedo de Vasconcelos , Marcenes Wagner , Oliveira Luciana Butini , Sheiham Aubrey , Bönecker Marcelo
Published: September 2009

Abstract –  Objective: The aim of this paper was to report trends in traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in preschool children in Brazil between 2002 and 2006, and assess whether gender, family structure, and socio‐economic differences in TDI are significant, and confirm the relationship between TDI and anatomic predisposing factors such as overjet and lip coverage.

Methods:  Three cross‐sectional surveys were conducted in 2002, 2004 and 2006 in Diadema using the same protocol. It was estimated that a minimum sample size of 778 5–59 months old children was required to achieve a level of precision with a standard error of <2% Participants were systematically selected from all children attending the National Day of Children’s Vaccination carried out in the city of Diadema. The criteria used to assess TDIs were a modified version of Ellis’ classification.

Results:  There was a significant increase in TDIs between 2002 and 2006 (47.9%, P = 0.002). The prevalence of TDIs was 9.4% (95% CI 7.63, 11.42) in 2002, 12.9% (95% CI 11.06, 14.96) in 2004, and 13.9% (95% CI 12.03, 15.84) in 2006 in 5–59 months old children and the treatment of TDI was seriously neglected. There was no significant gender, family structure, and socio‐economic differences in the prevalence of TDIs. The relationship between TDI and anatomic predisposing factors such as overjet, lip coverage, and anterior overbite was highly statistically significant (P < 0.01).

Conclusion:  The prevalence of TDIs in preschool children in Diadema increased between 2002 and 2006, the treatment of TDIs was neglected, thus it is crucial to generate considerable efforts to implement health promotion strategies to reverse the observed trends and to provide treatment to TDIs to prevent their biologic and psychologic consequences.
Microcystic adnexal carcinoma – aggressive infiltrative tumor often with innocent clinical appearance
Authors: Hamsch Corinna , Hartschuh Wolfgang
Published: September 2009

Microcystic adnexal carcinoma is a rare sweat gland malignancy, characterized by slow, but aggressive infiltrative growth. Histologic characteristics are follicular and glandular differentiation, as well as bland cytologic features. The benign histologic appearance, particularly in the upper level of the tumor, can be confused with syringoma or benign follicular neoplasm. Thus the risk of misdiagnosis is considerable, especially if only superficial biopsies are provided. We report two patients with microcystic adnexal carcinoma, using them as a basis to discuss, pathogenesis, diagnosis, histology and therapy of the tumor.
Participation of Endogenous Opioids in the Inhibition of the Spinal Generator for Ejaculation in Rats
Authors: Carro-Juárez Miguel , Rodríguez-Manzo Gabriela
Published: September 2009

Introduction

A spinal pattern generator controls the expression of ejaculation. When this ejaculation generator is activated it can be phasically controlled, at a spinal level, by intrinsic mechanisms that eventually lead to the establishment of both short- and long-lasting inhibitory processes.

Aim

To evaluate the hypothesis that endogenous opioids participate in the control of ejaculation by exerting an inhibitory influence upon the spinal generator for ejaculation.

Main Outcome Measures

Electromyographic recordings of the ejaculatory motor pattern recorded in the bulbospongiosus muscles were obtained as physiological markers of ejaculation.

Methods

By using a model for the study of ejaculation in spinal male rats, we analyze the effects of the intravenous injection of the opioid agonist morphine and the opioid antagonist naloxone on the expression of the ejaculatory motor pattern. In addition, the effect of pre-treatment with systemic naloxone on the establishment of the inhibition of the ejaculatory motor pattern resulting from its repeated sensory-induced elicitation was evaluated.

Results

Data obtained show that: (i) the i.v. injection of morphine (1–10 µg/rat) inhibits whereas that of naloxone (1–10 µg/rat) induces the expression of the genital ejaculatory motor pattern; (ii) naloxone pretreatment dose-dependently blocks the inhibitory effects of the high dose of morphine upon the rhythmic motor pattern of ejaculation; (iii) the inhibition of the ejaculatory response induced by repeated urethral stimulation can be delayed, and the ejaculatory capacity augmented, by naloxone injection (10 µg/rat).

Conclusions

Together, these evidences support the notion that endogenous opioids modulate the activity of the spinal generator for ejaculation by exerting an inhibitory influence.
EFFECTS OF PHOSPHATES TREATMENT ON THE QUALITY OF FROZEN‐THAWED FISH SPECIES
Authors: KILINC BERNA , CAKLI SUKRAN , DINCER TOLGA , CADUN ASLI
Published: September 2009

The influence of dipping frozen‐thawed fish species (saithe and sea bass) fillets for 10 min in 5% solutions containing sodium monophosphate, sodium diphosphate and sodium triphosphate on microbiological, chemical, color, cooking loss, water‐holding capacity, and textural and sensory analyses of fish fillets was assessed. Dipping frozen‐thawed fish species (sea bass and saithe) in 5% phosphates improved the quality when compared with the control group. Sodium triphosphate‐treated fillets were lighter than the control group but phosphate treatments did not affect the a* and b* values. Dipping frozen‐thawed fish species in 5% phosphates reduced microbiological (the total viable, psychrotrophic, coliform bacteria) counts and also chemical values (total volatile basic nitrogen, trimethylamine, thiobarbituric acid). Therefore, it can be concluded that the treatment of 5% sodium tripolyphosphate solution is the most effective to reduce the bacterial loads when compared with other phosphate groups. Phosphate treatment can be an alternative way to improve the quality of frozen‐thawed fish.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

There is a possibility of increasing the quality of frozen‐thawed fish species by using phosphate treatment. For this purpose, the quality attributes of frozen‐thawed fish species were determined after treated with sodium monophosphate, sodium diphosphate and sodium triphosphate. Phosphate treatments can be an alternative way to improve the quality of frozen‐thawed fish.
Radicalization of U.S. prisoners
Authors: Useem Bert , Clayton Obie
Published: September 2009

Research Summary

Concern has been expressed that prisoner radicalization poses a high probability threat to the safety of the United States. Although the threat of terrorist acts planned in prison is known to be above zero because of a nearly executed terrorist plot hatched in a state prison, the central finding of this research is that the actual probability is modest. The reasons for a modest probability are fourfold: Order and stability in U.S. prisons were achieved during the buildup period, prison officials successfully implemented efforts to counter the “importation” of radicalism, correctional leadership infused antiradicalization into their agencies, and inmates' low levels of education decreased the appeals of terrorism.

Policy Implications

The prison environment permits a great deal of information to be collected on the activities and, more difficult to detect, planned activities of inmates after they are released. This environment requires the attentive observation of staff, collection of information from inmates, and efforts at different levels of a correctional agency to assemble, collate, and assess information; much of it is likely to be false and some will be vital.
Broad‐based incentive plans, HR practices and company performance
Authors: Kroumova Maya K. , Lazarova Mila B.
Published: September 2009

The purpose of this paper is to further develop our knowledge of the complementarities between broad‐based incentives and human resource (HR) management practices, and their combined impact on company performance. We focus on three HR practices that are expected, separately and in combination, to enhance the effectiveness of broad‐based plans: information sharing, upward communication, and training in team skills. Using a sample of 305 Canadian firms, we find that companies with broad‐based incentive plans have lower levels of upward communication and higher levels of information sharing compared with companies that do not offer incentives to the majority of their workforce. Further, we find that companies with broad‐based incentive plans are more productive compared with companies with no such plans, and the presence of supporting HR practices increases their productivity advantage even further. In particular, upward communication combined with broad‐based incentives has a strong positive relationship with productivity.
Laryngeal epithelial thickness: a comparison between optical coherence tomography and histology
Authors: Kaiser M.L. , Rubinstein M. , Vokes D.E. , Ridgway J.M. , Guo S. , Gu M. , Crumley R.L. , Armstrong W.B. , Chen Z. , Wong B.J.F.
Published: September 2009

Objectives:  Optical coherence tomography, an imaging modality using near‐infrared light, produces cross‐sectional tissue images with a lateral pixel resolution of 10 μm. However, normative data is first needed on epithelial thickness for lesion characterisation, and, to date, little exists. The purpose of our study is to measure normal laryngeal epithelial thickness by in vivo optical coherence tomography, and compare these values to those obtained from fixed ex‐vivo laryngectomy specimens.

Design and Setting:  Prospective at a single medical center in California, United States.

Participants:  A total of 116 patients undergoing operative endoscopy.

Main outcome measures:  Optical coherence tomography images of clinically normal laryngeal subsites were selected. Calibrated measurements of epithelial thickness at various laryngeal subsites were recorded. Measurements of epithelial thickness from corresponding areas were obtained using optical micrometry on histologically normal regions of 15 total laryngectomy specimens. Descriptive statistics were performed.

Results:  Mean epithelial optical coherence tomography thicknesses were: true vocal cords (81 μm), false vocal cords (78 μm), subglottis (61 μm), aryepiglottic folds (111 μm), laryngeal epiglottis (116 μm) and lingual epiglottis (170 μm). Epithelial thicknesses in fixed tissues were: true vocal cords (103 μm), false vocal cords (79 μm), aryepiglottic folds (205 μm) subglottis (61 μm), laryngeal epiglottis (38 μm) and lingual epiglottis (130 μm).

Conclusions:  Optical coherence tomography does not have the artifacts associated with conventional histologic techniques. The inevitable development of office‐based optical coherence tomography devices will increase the precision of laryngeal measurements and contribute to the clinical application of this technology in diagnosing laryngeal disease.
Phenotypic Characterization of Distinct Human Bone Marrow–Derived MSC Subsets
Authors: Bühring Hans‐Jörg , Treml Sabrina , Cerabona Flavianna , de Zwart Peter , Kanz Lothar , Sobiesiak Malgorzata
Published: September 2009

Very recently, we identified two distinct mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) subsets in primary bone marrow (BM) that differ in their expression pattern (CD271brightMSCA‐1dimCD56+ and CD271brightMSCA‐1brightCD56−) and morphology as well as in their clonogenic and differentiation capacity. Here we analyzed the cell surface antigen expression in these subsets in more detail and compared the profiles with the expression pattern on cultured MSCs. Most of the tested antigens, including CD13, CD15, CD73, CD140b, CD144, CD146, and CD164, are expressed at similar levels in both primary BM populations. However, a number of markers were differentially expressed. Of these, CD166 (ALCAM), CD200, and CD106 (VCAM‐1) showed an almost selective expression on either CD271brightMSCA‐1dimCD56+ (increased CD166 and CD200 expression) or CD271brightMSCA‐1brightCD56− (increased CD106 expression) MSCs, respectively. Additional markers with elevated expression on CD56+ MSCs include F9‐3C2F1, HEK‐3D3, HEK5‐1B3, and W1C3 antigens, whereas CD10, CD26, CD106, 7C5G1, 9A3G2, 56A1C2, 66E2D11, HEK‐3D6, HEK4‐1A1, HEK4‐2D6, W1D6, W4A5, W7C6, and W8B2 (MSCA‐1) antigens showed increased expression in the CD56− population. The majority of the analyzed markers found on primary MSCs were also expressed on cultured MSCs. However, in contrast to primary MSCs, HEK7‐1C4, W1C3, W1D6, and W4A5 antigens were absent on the cultured counterparts. 7G5G1 and 9A3G2 antigens showed reduced, and HEK‐3D6, F9‐3C2, and HEK‐3D3 showed increased expression on cultured cells. The extended knowledge about the phenotype of the two subsets and the identification of novel MSC markers may result in the isolation of attractive starting populations for applications in regenerative medicine.
Short Telomeres Resulting from Heritable Mutations in the Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene Predispose for a Variety of Malignancies
Authors: Hills Mark , Lansdorp Peter M.
Published: September 2009

Telomeres are composed of long arrays of TTAGGG repeats and associated proteins that act as a protective cap for chromosome ends. The length of telomere repeats is set in the germline but decreases in somatic cells, primarily as a function of DNA replication. Progressive telomere shortening limits stem cell divisions and probably acts as a tumor suppressor mechanism. Using a sensitive PCR method to detect the length of individual telomere repeats on specific chromosomes, we confirmed that telomere length decreases from primitive to more differentiated human cell types within the hematopoietic hierarchy. Genetic mutations in the components of telomerase (the RNA template sequence hTERC, reverse transcriptase hTERT, and Syskerin DKC1) have recently been implicated in a variety of bone marrow failure syndromes, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and more recently, acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The majority of mutations discovered in AML patients were heritable and resulted in partial loss of telomerase activity, a finding counterintuitive to the requirement of telomerase in cancer cells. We have found heritable hypomorphic TERT mutations in other cancers as well, and we propose that such mutations result in short telomeres and premature loss of stem cells. Loss of normal stem cells could provide strong selection for abnormal cells incapable of responding to DNA damage signals originating from short telomeres. Such cells will have a DNA repair defect resulting in genomic instability and a mutator phenotype. Our findings point to an intimate connection between senescence and cancer and highlight the important role of telomeres in the biology of normal and malignant human cells.
Antitumor Immunity and Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Schatton Tobias , Frank Markus H.
Published: September 2009

Self‐renewing cancer stem cells (CSC) capable of spawning more differentiated tumor cell progeny are required for tumorigenesis and neoplastic progression of leukemias and several solid cancers. The mechanisms by which CSC cause tumor initiation and growth are currently unknown. Recent findings that suggest a negative correlation between degrees of host immunocompetence and rates of cancer development raise the possibility that only a restricted minority of malignant cells, namely CSC, may possess the phenotypic and functional characteristics to evade host antitumor immunity. In human malignant melanoma, a highly immunogenic cancer, we recently identified malignant melanoma initiating cells (MMIC), a novel type of CSC, based on selective expression of the chemoresistance mediator ABCB5. Here we present evidence of a relative immune privilege of ABCB5+ MMIC, suggesting refractoriness to current immunotherapeutic treatment strategies. We discuss our findings in the context of established immunomodulatory functions of physiologic stem cells and in relation to mechanisms responsible for the downregulation of immune responses against tumors. We propose that the MMIC subset might be responsible for melanoma immune evasion and that immunomodulation might represent one mechanism by which CSC advance tumorigenic growth and resistance to immunotherapy. Accordingly, the possibility of an MMIC‐driven tumor escape from immune‐mediated rejection has important implications for current melanoma immunotherapy.
Complex and Context Dependent Regulation of Hematopoiesis by TGF‐β Superfamily Signaling
Authors: Söderberg Sofie Singbrant , Karlsson Göran , Karlsson Stefan
Published: September 2009

The transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β superfamily of growth factors, including the TGF‐βs, activins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), provide cells with a broad spectrum of regulatory signals through the intracellular Smad pathway. Since loss‐of‐function studies of a majority of the TGF‐β superfamily members result in embryonic lethality, much of our current knowledge of the TGF‐β superfamily's role in hematopoiesis is generated from studies performed in vitro, or in very early stages of embryonic development. TGF‐β is well documented as a potent inhibitor of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) proliferation in vitro, while its role in vivo is largely unknown. BMP signaling is crucial for the initiation of hematopoiesis in the developing embryo, although its role in adult hematopoiesis remains elusive. More recently we and others have used conditional knockout models to unravel the role of several components of TGF‐β family signaling in adult hematopoiesis. Here we review the currently known functions for the major factors of this signaling family in embryonic and adult hematopoietic regulation and discuss the context dependency and complexity that permeate this regulation.
Genetic Models to Study Quiescent Stem Cells and Their Niches
Authors: Schaniel Christoph , Moore Kateri A.
Published: September 2009

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) have been defined by their ability to establish long‐term hematopoiesis in myelo‐ablated hosts. Prospective isolation using combinations of cell‐surface markers and/or dye exclusion can yield highly purified and nearly homogeneous phenotypically defined cells that repopulate irradiated hosts. Although highly informative, these types of analyses may not necessarily reflect ongoing homeostatic hematopoiesis. HSCs are also described as being quiescent. This has been demonstrated by cell cycle analysis of phenotypically defined HSCs. Some studies have challenged the existence of truly quiescent HSCs, suggesting that they continuously cycle, albeit with very slow kinetics. Here we present a pulse–chase system based on the controllable incorporation of H2B‐GFP into nucleosomes, which allows the identification, purification, and functional analysis of viable label‐retaining cells. Our data complement and extend recent studies using similar strategies. These, together with our present studies, find a rare, quiescent or dormant subset within the population of stringently defined HSC phenotypes. To date, three types of niches, endosteal, vascular, and reticular, have been described; herein we review the cellular and spatial nature of these microenvironments. We propose that HSC label‐retention combined with genetically manipulated stem cell niches will allow us to determine their anatomical architecture, to address HSC cell fate proliferation kinetics, and to begin to dissect the molecular cross talk among stem cells and niche cells in vivo during both normal and perturbed homeostasis.
Novel Trafficking Routes for Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Massberg Steffen , von Andrian Ulrich H.
Published: September 2009

Bone marrow (BM)‐resident hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are known to enter the blood and to home back to the BM. However, whether these migratory HSPCs also follow extramedullary traffic routes is unknown. Our group has recently shown that mouse thoracic duct (TD) lymph contains clonogenic HSPCs that possess short‐ and long‐term multilineage reconstitution capacity in primary and secondary transplantation assays. Using BM transplantation, homing experiments, and parabiotic mice, we established that TD HSPCs originate in the BM and traffic constitutively to multiple extramedullary tissues, where they reside for several days until entering draining lymphatics to return to the blood. While these migratory properties of HSPCs resemble those of lymphocytes, circulating HSPCs access different target tissues because, unlike lymphocytes, they do not require secondary lymphoid organs to recirculate. The egress of HSPCs from extramedullary tissues into lymph depends on sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) receptors, particularly S1P1. We have shown that under physiological conditions migratory HSPCs contribute to the continuous restoration of specialized hematopoietic cells that reside in peripheral tissues. Upon exposure to toll‐like receptor (TLR) agonists, migratory HSPCs proliferate locally within extramedullary tissues and generate innate immune effector cells. Thus, HSPCs can survey peripheral organs to replenish tissue‐resident hematopoietic cells and act as a source of mature leukocytes during host defense against pathogens.
The Role of PLZF in Human Myeloid Development
Authors: Dick John E. , Doulatov Sergei
Published: September 2009

Little is known of the molecular regulators that enable production of large numbers of mature human hematopoietic cells (∼1012cells daily) while at the same time ensuring that the progenitor pools are not depleted. At the same time, the system must remain sufficiently flexible to respond to conditions of increased cellular output such as during blood loss or infection. We have identified a key role for the transcription factor PLZF in both these processes.
Controlling Light Oxidation Flavor in Milk by Blocking Riboflavin Excitation Wavelengths by Interference
Authors: Webster J.B. , Duncan S.E. , Marcy J.E. , O'Keefe S.F.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: Milk packaged in glass bottles overwrapped with iridescent films (treatments blocked either a single visible riboflavin [Rb] excitation wavelength or all visible Rb excitation wavelengths; all treatments blocked UV Rb excitation wavelengths) was exposed to fluorescent lighting at 4 °C for up to 21 d and evaluated for light‐oxidized flavor. Controls consisted of bottles with no overwrap (light‐exposed treatment; represents the light barrier properties of the glass packaging) and bottles overwrapped with aluminum foil (light‐protected treatment). A balanced incomplete block multi‐sample difference test, using a ranking system and a trained panel, was used for evaluation of light oxidation flavor intensity. Volatiles were evaluated by gas chromatography and Rb degradation was evaluated by fluorescence spectroscopy. Packaging overwraps limited production of light oxidation flavor over time but not to the same degree as the complete light block. Blocking all visible and UV Rb excitation wavelengths reduced light oxidation flavor better than blocking only a single visible excitation wavelength plus all UV excitation wavelengths. Rb degraded over time in all treatments except the light‐protected control treatment and only minor differences in the amount of degradation among treatments was observed. Hexanal production was significantly higher in the light‐exposed control treatment compared to the light‐protected control treatment from day 7; it was only sporadically significantly higher in the 570 nm and 400 nm block treatments. Pentanal, heptanal, and an unidentified volatile compound also increased in concentration over time, but there were no significant differences in concentration among the packaging overwrap treatments for these compounds.
A Novel Bread Making Process Using Salt‐Stressed Baker's Yeast
Authors: Yeh Lien‐Te , Charles Albert Linton , Ho Chi‐Tang , Huang Tzou‐Chi
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT:  By adjusting the mixing order of ingredients in traditional formula, an innovative bread making process was developed. The effect of salt‐stressed Baker's yeast on bread dough of different sugar levels was investigated. Baker's yeast was stressed in 7% salt solution then mixed into dough, which was then evaluated for fermentation time, dough fermentation producing gas, dough expansion, bread specific volumes, and sensory and physical properties. The results of this study indicated that salt‐stressed Baker's yeast shortened fermentation time in 16% and 24% sugar dough. Forty minutes of salt stress produced significant amount of gas and increased bread specific volumes. The bread was softer and significantly improved sensory properties for aroma, taste, and overall acceptability were obtained.
Nutritional, Physical, and Sensory Evaluation of Hydroponic Carrots (Daucus carota L.) from Different Nutrient Delivery Systems
Authors: Gichuhi P.N. , Mortley D. , Bromfield E. , Bovell‐Benjamin A.C.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT:  Carrot (Daucus carota L.) has the highest carotenoid content among foods and is consumed in large quantities worldwide, while at the same time its market demand continues to increase. Carotenoids have also been associated with protective effects against cancer and other chronic diseases. The most predominant carotenoids in carrots are β‐ and α‐carotenes. Moisture, ash, fat, texture, color, carotene content, and consumer acceptance of carrots grown in a hydroponic system with nutrient film technique (NFT) and microporous tube membrane system (MTMS) were evaluated. The moisture contents of the NFT‐ and MTMS‐grown carrots ranged from 86.8 ± 0.13% to 92.2 ± 2.25% and 80.9 ± 0.31% to 91.6 ± 1.01%, respectively. Fat and ash contents of the carrots were negligible. NFT‐grown Oxheart had the most β‐carotene (9900 ± 20 μg/100 g) while Juwaroot had the least (248 ± 10 μg/100 g). However, the β‐carotene content of Juwaroot from the NFT batch II carrots was 3842 ± 6 μg/100 g. MTMS‐grown carrots had less variation in the total β‐carotene contents (2434 ± 89 to 10488 ± 8 μg/100 g) than those from NFT. Overall, Nantes Touchan (4.8 ± 2.3) and Nevis‐F (7 ± 1.4) from NFT were the least and most preferred by consumers. Mignon was also acceptable to consumers, and significantly (P < 0.05) more preferred than the other carrots in that NFT batch. MTMS‐grown Kinko and Paramex, which were significantly (P < 0.05) more preferred than Nandrin‐F and the commercial field‐grown carrot, were equally liked by consumers. Nevis‐F, Mignon (NFT), Paramex, and Kinko (MTMS) are potentially good cultivars to be included in NASA's food system.
Sensitivity of Listeria monocytogenes Scott A to Nisin and Diacetyl after Starvation in Sodium Phosphate Buffered Saline
Authors: O'Bryan Corliss A. , Sostrin Michael L. , Nannapaneni Ramakrishna , Ricke Steven C. , Crandall Philip G. , Johnson Michael G.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT:  This study determined the effectiveness of nisin and diacetyl to inhibit the growth of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) under normal cell cultivation and starvation conditions in sodium phosphate buffered saline (SPBS). Inhibitory effects of nisin at 320 or 1000 AU/mL or diacetyl at 0.25%, 0.50%, or 1.0% and combinations on Lm in brain heart infusion (BHI), SPBS, and potassium phosphate buffered saline (KPBS) were determined on BHIA (nonselective medium) and PALCAM (selective medium) agar at 0 and 2 h posttreatment after 0, 7, 14, and 21 d of starvation. Two‐hour exposure to 1000 AU/mL nisin and 1% diacetyl gave 8 to 9 log CFU/mL reductions of nonstarved control cells regardless of plating medium after suspension in BHI, SPBS, or KPBS with inhibitors, but with 7 d starved cells a 2‐h exposure reduced Lm levels to less than the detection limit (20 CFU/mL). Cells starved in SPBS for 14 or 21 d then suspended in BHI plus inhibitors were reduced 5 to 6 log CFU/mL. SPBS suspensions on days 14 and 21 were reduced 4 log CFU/mL and 2 to 3 log CFU/mL, respectively, on BHI media and 5 to 6 log CFU/mL and 2 to 3 log CFU/mL on PALCAM. Recovery was the same regardless of plating medium, indicating treated cells were killed and not merely injured by the nisin and diacetyl treatments. This study showed that nisin and diacetyl combinations were more effective on Lm than when either chemical was used separately in BHI, SPBS, or KPBS. Lm cells starved for 14 or more days were much more resistant to the nisin and diacetyl combinations than were nonstarved control cells.
A Novel Method for Air Drying Aloe Leaf Slices by Covering with Filter Papers as a Shrink‐Proof Layer
Authors: Kim S.A. , Baek J.H. , Lee S.J. , Choi S.Y. , Hur W. , Lee S.Y.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: To prevent the shrinkage of aloe vera slices during air drying, a method utilizing a shrink‐proof layer was developed. The sample was configured of whole leaf aloe slices, where 1 side or both sides were covered with filter papers as shrink‐proof layers. After air drying by varying the air temperature and the slice thickness, the drying characteristics, as well as several quality factors of the dried aloe vera leaf slices, were analyzed. In the simulation of the drying curves, the modified Page model showed the best fitness, representing a diffusion‐controlled drying mechanism. Nonetheless, there was a trace of a constant‐rate drying period in the samples dried by the method. Shrinkage was greatly reduced, and the rehydration ratios increased by approximately 50%. Scanning electron microscopic analysis revealed that the surface structure of original fibrous form was well sustained. FT‐IR characteristics showed that the dried samples could sustain aloe polysaccharide acetylation. Furthermore, the functional properties of the dried slices including water holding capacity, swelling, and fat absorption capability were improved, and polysaccharide retention levels increased by 20% to 30%. Therefore, we concluded that application of shrink‐proof layers on aloe slices provides a novel way to overcome the shrinkage problems commonly found in air drying, thereby improving their functional properties with less cost.

Practical Application: This research article demonstrates a novel air drying method using shrink‐proof layers to prevent the shrinkage of aloe slices. We analyzed extensively the characteristics of shrinkage mechanism and physical properties of aloe flesh gels in this drying system. We concluded that this method can be a beneficial means to retain the functional properties of dried aloe, and a potential alternative to freeze drying, which is still costly.
Evaluation of the implementation of new traceability and food safety requirements in the pig industry in eastern Australia
Authors: Hernández‐Jover M , Schembri N , Toribio J‐A , Holyoake PK
Published: September 2009

Objectives  To evaluate the implementation and barriers to adoption, among pig producers, of a newly introduced traceability and food safety system in Australia.

Procedure  Implementation of the PigPass national vendor declaration (NVD) linked to an on‐farm quality assurance (QA) program was evaluated in May and December 2007 at saleyards and abattoirs in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. Four focus group discussions with saleyard producers were held between April and July 2007.

Results  Implementation of the PigPass system in terms of accurate completion of the form and QA accreditation was higher at the export abattoir than at the regional saleyard at the first audit (P < 0.01). Implementation increased at the second audit at the abattoirs, but little change with time was observed at saleyards. Approximately half of the producers at saleyards used photocopied PigPass forms, made at least one error (>64%), and many vendors did not appear to be QA‐accredited. During focus groups, producers expressed the view that PigPass implementation improved animal and product traceability. They identified the associated costs and a perceived lack of support by information providers as obstacles for adoption.

Conclusion  Improvement in the implementation of PigPass among producers marketing pigs at export abattoirs was observed during the 8‐month period of the study. There is a need for a more uniform message to producers from government agencies on the importance of the PigPass NVD and QA and extension and education targeted toward producers supplying pigs to saleyards and domestic abattoirs to ensure compliance with the traceability requirements.
Stabilisation with dorsal and ventral fixation of a traumatic cervical instability in a dog
Authors: Ozak A , Nisbet HO , Yardimci C , Sirin YS
Published: September 2009

This case study reports the outcome of dorsal and ventral stabilisation of a traumatic cervical instability in a dog. A 2‐year‐old, male Pointer was admitted following a motor vehicle accident. Clinical examination revealed non‐ambulatory tetraparesis, severe neck pain and upper motor neuron changes in all limbs. Deep pain response was present. Subluxation of C2/3 and fractures of the dorsal spinous process and lamina of C2 were observed on radiographs. Ventral stabilisation was performed with screws and bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate). For dorsal fixation of the fractures, screws and cerclage wire were used. The dog stood up independently after 1 month, was able to walk 1.5 months postoperatively and had recovered completely at 1 year following surgery. We conclude that combined stabilisation techniques are effective for this type of cervical fracture in which the dorsal, middle and ventral structures of the vertebra are severely disrupted.
Overexpression of EphA2, MMP‐9, and MVD‐CD34 in hepatocellular carcinoma: Implications for tumor progression and prognosis
Authors: Yang Pu , Yuan Weijie , He Jiantai , Wang Jiwei , Yu Li , Jin Xin , Hu Yu , Liao Mingmei , Chen Zihua , Zhang Yangde
Published: September 2009

Aim:  To investigate the expression of erythropoietin‐producing hepatocellular (Eph)A2 receptor, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9, and angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in order to reveal their expression correlations with tumor invasion, metastasis, and prognosis.

Methods:  From January 2000 to June 2003, 129 specimens of resected tumors from the patients with HCC were obtained. Corresponding pericarcinomatous liver tissues were also obtained and selected as a control group. Expressions of EphA2, MMP‐9, and CD34 were detected with immunohistochemical staining. Microvascular density (MVD) was calculated with counting of CD34‐positive vascular endothelial cells.

Results:  The expressions of EphA2, MMP‐9, and MVD in the HCC tissues were significantly higher than those in the pericarcinomatous liver tissues (P < 0.01). Statistical analysis showed there were significant correlations between the expressions of EphA2, MMP‐9 and MVD in some classicclinicopathological parameters (i.e. tumor nodule, vein invasion, tumor, node, metastasis stages, extrahepatic metastasis; P < 0.05). The correlation between EphA2 and MMP‐9 expression was positive (r = 0.625, P = 0.011). Tumor MVD was closely associated with EphA2 (r = 0.281, P = 0.01) and MMP‐9 (r = 0.319, P < 0.01) expressions. In particular, EphA2, MMP‐9, and MVD expressions levels were found to be independent prognostic factors after HCC resection.

Conclusions:  Overexpressions of EphA2 and MMP‐9 relate to tumor progression, metastasis, and prognosis in HCC. The present study suggests that EphA2 is associated with key mediators of angiogenesis and invasion.
Effects of structural variations of APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B genes in chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Abe Hiromi , Ochi Hidenori , Maekawa Toshiro , Hatakeyama Tsuyoshi , Tsuge Masataka , Kitamura Shosuke , Kimura Takashi , Miki Daiki , Mitsui Fukiko , Hiraga Nobuhiko , Imamura Michio , Fujimoto Yoshifumi , Takahashi Shoichi , Nakamura Yusuke , Kumada Hiromitsu , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: September 2009

Aim:  Human APOBEC3 deaminases induce G to A hypermutation in nascent DNA strand of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genomes and seem to operate as part of the innate antiviral immune system. We analyzed the importance of APOBEC3A (A3A) and APOBEC3B (A3B) proteins, which are potent inhibitors of adeno‐associated‐virus and long terminal repeat (LTR)‐retrotransposons, in chronic HBV infection.

Methods:  We focused on the common deletion polymorphism that spans from the 3′ part of A3A gene to the 3′ portion of A3B gene. An association study was carried out in 724 HBV carriers and 469 healthy control subjects. We also analyzed hypermutated genomes detected in deletion and insertion (non‐deletion) homozygous patients to determine the effect of APOBEC3 gene deletion. Further, we performed functional analysis of A3A gene by transient transfection experiments.

Results:  The association study showed no significant association between deletion polymorphism and chronic HBV carrier state. Context analysis also showed a negligible effect for the deletion. Rather, mild liver fibrosis was associated with APOBEC gene deletion homozygosity, suggesting that A3B deletion is not responsible for chronic HBV infection. Functional analysis of A3A showed that overexpression of A3A induced hypermutation in HBV genome, although the levels of hypermutants were less than those introduced by A3G. However, overexpression of A3A did not decrease replicative intermediates of HBV.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that A3A and A3B play little role in HBV elimination through anti‐viral defense mechanisms. The significance of hypermutation induced by A3A should be investigated further.
Prolonged treatment with pegylated interferon α 2b plus ribavirin improves sustained virological response in chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 patients with late response in a clinical real‐life setting in Japan
Authors: Watanabe Sumio , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Koike Kazuhiko , Izumi Namiki , Takikawa Hajime , Hashimoto Etsuko , Moriyasu Fuminori , Kumada Hiromitsu , Imawari Michio ,   PERFECT Study Group
Published: September 2009

Aim:  This study was conducted to clarify the factors related to sustained virological response (SVR) to pegylated interferon α 2b (PEG‐IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) combination therapy administered for 48 weeks in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (CHCV) and to evaluate the usefulness of prolonged treatment in patients with late virological response (LVR).

Methods:  Of 2257 patients registered at 68 institutions, those with genotype 1 and high viral load were selected to participate in two studies. Study 1 (standard 48‐week group, n = 1480) investigated SVR‐determining factors in patients who received the treatment for ≤52 weeks, whereas study 2 compared SVR rates between patients with LVR who received treatment for either 36–52 weeks (48‐week group, n = 223) or 60–76 weeks (72‐week group, n = 73).

Results:  In study 1, SVR rate was 44.9%; that in male subjects (50.4%) was significantly (P < 0.0001) higher than in female subjects (36.4%). SVR rate significantly (P < 0.0001) decreased with 10‐year age increments in both sexes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, F score, platelet count, and HCV load were SVR‐related factors. In study 2, SVR rate in the 72‐week group (67.1%) was significantly (P = 0.0020) higher than in the 48‐week group (46.2%).

Conclusions:  Patients with CHCV genotype 1 infection should be treated with PEG‐IFN plus ribavirin combination therapy as early as possible, and 72 weeks' treatment is recommended in patients with LVR regardless of age.
Hematoporphyrin derivative‐mediated photodynamic therapy inhibits tumor growth in human cholangiocarcinoma in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Cao Liang‐qi , Xue Ping , Lu Hai‐wu , Zheng Qiang , Wen Zi‐long , Shao Zhi‐jian
Published: September 2009

Aim:  To investigate the effects of hematoporphyrin derivative‐mediated photodynamic therapy (HPD‐PDT) on cell growth in human cholangiocarcinoma in vitro and in vivo, as well as the underlying mechanisms of these effects.

Methods:  3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to evaluate growth status of human cholangiocarcinoma cell line (QBC939). Hoechst 33258 staining and flow cytometry assays were applied to determine cell apoptosis. Western blotting analysis was performed to detect the release of cytochrome c in QBC939 cells, and caspases enzymatic assay was used to investigate the activation of caspase‐3, ‐8, and ‐9. Further, tumor growth after subcutaneous implantation of QBC939 cells in nude mice was monitored.

Results:  HPD‐PDT inhibits QBC939 cell growth via cell apoptosis in vitro, and initiates cell mitochondria apoptosis pathway by the release of cytochrome c and the activation of caspase‐9 and ‐3. Moreover, HPD‐PDT also inhibits subcutaneous tumor growth of QBC939 cells and reduces tumor cell mitosis in nude mice.

Conclusion:  HPD‐PDT inhibits tumor growth of human cholangiocarcinoma, suggesting that HPD‐PDT is useful in cholangiocarcinoma therapy.
Compartmentalization and its implication for peripheral immunologically‐competent cells to the liver in patients with HBV‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Zou Zhengsheng , Xu Dongping , Li Baosen , Xin Shaojie , Zhang Zheng , Huang Lei , Fu Junliang , Yang Yongping , Jin Lei , Zhao Jing‐Min , Shi Ming , Zhou Guangde , Sun Yanling , Wang Fu‐Sheng
Published: September 2009

Aims:  This study attempts to characterize the feature of immunologically competent cells (ICCs) and evaluate its clinical implication in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) in relation to chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.

Methods:  Circulating ICCs were examined in ACLF patients (n = 75), as well as in patients with hepatitis B (CHB, n = 31), CHB‐related liver cirrhosis (LC, n = 36), and normal controls (NC, n = 30). Intrahepatic ICCs in some patients were further analyzed via immunohistochemical and flow cytometric assays.

Results:  Total lymphocytes, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and NK cells in circulation were numerically lower in the ACLF and LC groups compared to the CHB and NC groups. Importantly, the number of these cells was significantly lower in non‐surviving ACLF patients compared with surviving ACLF patients. In comparison to NC, ACLF patients displayed a significantly higher ratio of liver‐infiltrating CD4+ T‐cell frequency than its circulating counterpart, suggesting that the possiblility of the ICCs compartmentalization from the peripheral blood into the liver in ACLF. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that intrahepatic CD4+ cells, CD8+ cells, and CD56+ cells were significantly higher in the ACLF group compared with the other three groups, suggesting a stronger cellular immune response‐mediated inflammation in ACLF group than other patient groups.

Conclusions:  The abnormal prevalence of circulating and intrahepatic ICCs possibly acts as an important factor that may drive the progression of HBV‐related ACLF.
Effects of HCV proteins in current HCV transgenic models
Authors: Jiao Jian , Wang Jiangbin , Sallberg Matii
Published: September 2009

Hepatits C virus (HCV) is an enveloped virus with positive‐sense single‐stranded RNA genome that causes both acute and persistent infections associated with chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, which needs fully functional human hepatocytes for its development. Due to the strict human tropism of HCV, only human and higher primates such as chimpanzees have been receptive to HCV infection and development, cognition about pathophysiololgy and host immune responses of HCV infection is limited by lacking of simple laboratory models of infection for a long time. During the past decade, gene transfer approaches have been helpful to the understanding of the molecular basis of human disease. Transgenic cell lines, chimeric and transgenic animal models were developed and had been demonstrated their invaluable benefits. This review focuses on the existing HCV transgenic models and summarize the relative results about probable pathophysical changes induced by HCV proteins.
Global Analysis of Cdk1 Substrate Phosphorylation Sites Provides Insights into Evolution
Authors: Holt Liam J. , Tuch Brian B. , Villén Judit , Johnson Alexander D. , Gygi Steven P. , Morgan David O.
Published: September 2009

Cataloging Kinase Targets

Protein phosphorylation is a central mechanism in the control of many biological processes (see the Perspective by

Collins

). It remains a challenge to determine the complete range of substrates and phosphorylation sites altered by a kinase like cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1), which controls cell division in yeast.

Holt
et al.

(p.
1682
) engineered a strain of yeast to express a modified Cdk1 molecule that could be inhibited by a specific small-molecule inhibitor. The range of Cdk1-dependent phosphorylation was assessed by quantitative mass spectrometry, which revealed many previously uncharacterized substrates for Cdk1. In addition to phosphorylation on serine and threonine residues, which appears to be evolutionarily ancient, tyrosine phosphorylation occurs primarily in multicellular organisms.

Tan
et al.

(p.
1686
, published online 9 July) compared the overall presence of tyrosine residues in human proteins (which are frequently phosphorylated) and in yeast proteins (which are not). Loss of tyrosine residues has occurred during evolution, presumably to reduce adventitious tyrosine phosphorylation.