bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The safety and efficacy of dressings with silver – addressing clinical concerns
Authors: Cutting Keith , White Richard , Edmonds Mike
Published: July 2007

With the increasing use of silver as a topical application in wound care, concerns focussing on its role are bound to arise. These concerns, which centre on issues such as resistance and toxicity, clinical efficacy and cost‐effectiveness, need to be addressed and openly discussed so that they are viewed from a rational perspective. While clinical efficacy and safety, along with cost–benefit, are of obvious interest, the origin of some of these concerns is a matter of debate. The silver‐containing dressing segment of the medical device market is of huge commercial importance, and, consequently, marketing and promotional issues occasionally obscure the evidence that clinicians need to have in order that they may provide appropriate treatment for their patients. The impact of silver application on the wound bioburden needs to be examined carefully to heighten our awareness of any deleterious effects on the healing process, without inducing any unfounded anxieties.
Trifluralin Toxicity in a Chagas Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Zaidenberg Aníbal , Marra Carlos , Luong Tai , Gómez Pedro , Milani Laura , Villagra Sergio , Drut Ricardo
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Even though trifluralin (α,α,α‐2,6‐dinitro‐N‐N‐dipropyl‐p‐toluidine) is effective for the treatment of experimental Chagas disease, more preclinical toxicity studies need to be performed. Cell toxicity of trifluralin was studied in Hep‐G2 and Vero C76 cells treated with 50 and 150 µM trifluralin. The results show that duplication time, amount of cellular protein and cell protein/DNA values were normal. Histological, haematological and chemical parameters were measured in CF1 mice after oral trifluralin administration. Acute toxic effects were assayed by administration of 50 or 200 mg/kg body weight daily for 30 days, and chronic effects by administration of 200 mg/kg body weight once a week for 90 days (n = 20). In the acute scheme treatment, hepatic (glutamic‐pyruvic, glutamic‐oxalacetic and alkaline phosphatase activities; proteins and albumin plasma concentrations) and pancreatic (amylase, glycaemia) functions were normal. Mean corpuscular volume, haemoglobin and haematocrit decreased. Creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase and glutamic‐oxalacetic activity increased, suggesting lesion in myocardial tissue. Histology was normal, excepting for the heart (mild myocarditis). Similar results were observed in acutely treated animals. There were no differences in body weight gain for treated mice compared to controls. In view of the published therapeutic effects of trifluralin on CF1 Chagas disease model and considering the present results, trifluralin seems to be a moderately toxic drug with a potential selective effect on the myocardium.
The Novel Mechanism of Recombinant Human Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor on the Anti‐diabetes Activity
Authors: Liu Qing‐Shan , Gao Mei , Zhu Shen‐Yin , Li Shao‐Jing , Zhang Li , Wang Qiu‐Juan , Du Guan‐Hua
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  In a previous study, the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) were demonstrated to lead to weight‐loss partly by up‐regulating the energy metabolism and the expression of uncoupling protein‐1, mitochondrial transcription factor A and nuclear respiratory factor‐1 in adipose tissues or muscle. To investigate the up‐stream regulators of the expression, recombinant human CNTF (rhCNTF) (0.1, 0.3 and 0.9 mg/kg/day subcutaneously) were administered to KK‐Ay mice for 30 days, resulting in reduction of perirenal fat mass, serum free fatty acids and islet triacylglycerol; furthermore, the values of oral glucose tolerance test were found improved. In brown adipose tissues, the gene expressions of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPARα) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor coactivator‐1 α (PGC‐1α) were found to be up‐regulated by rhCNTF. To the best of our knowledge, the changes of gene expression of PPARα and PGC‐1α represent new insights into the mechanisms of anti‐diabetes by rhCNTF. In addition, the activity of mitochondrial complexII was found to be increased by rhCNTF. Stimulation of PPARα, PGC‐1α, uncoupling protein‐1 and enhanced activity of mitochondrial complex II may be associated with the effects of anti‐diabetes. The present study indicates new mechanisms of the activity and mechanisms on anti‐diabetes of rhCNTF, which may be a novel anti‐diabetes reagent partly acting by enhancing energy metabolism.
The Role of Penile Color-Duplex Ultrasound for the Evaluation of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Aversa Antonio , Sarteschi Lelio Mario
Published: July 2007

Introduction

In the era of orally active agents, dynamic penile color-duplex ultrasound (D-PCDU) is not considered a necessary first screening for all patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). Various parameters, such as peak systolic flow velocity, end diastolic velocity, resistance index, acceleration time, and degree of arterial dilatation, have been suggested for the diagnosis of vascular ED by D-PCDU.

Aim

To highlight the clinical utility and evidence-based interpretation of D-PCDU criteria.

Methods

Extensive, unsystematic PubMed literature search reviewing relevant data on D-PCDU in the evaluation of male ED.

Results

The advantage of ultrasound is the minimally invasive nature of the procedure and the ability to screen patients to identify a normal arterial response of cavernous arteries. Men with sexual dysfunctions above 55 years of age and comorbidities are more likely to have multi-organ vascular dysfunction and may necessitate further testing because erectile failure may be the first presenting symptom requiring investigation and treatment even in the absence of cardiovascular risk factors. All patients affected with Peyronie's disease and younger men with persistent ED, a history of pelvic traumas, or fractures of the penile shaft should be offered ultrasonographic penile blood flow studies before referral to surgery or more invasive vascular investigations.

Conclusions

In the near future, D-PCDU may be used in preference to patients presenting with or without vascular risk factors, particularly those not responding to first-line orally active drugs and seeking an explanation as to why these agents failed.
Male Erectile Dysfunction: Its Prevalence in Western Australia and Associated Sociodemographic Factors
Authors: Chew Kew-Kim , Stuckey Bronwyn , Bremner Alexandra , Earle Carolyn , Jamrozik Konrad
Published: July 2007

Introduction

This is a report of a population-based cross-sectional observational study in Western Australia (WA) on male erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

To assess the prevalence of ED in WA and to examine its associated sociodemographic factors.

Method

Postal questionnaires were sent to randomly selected age-stratified male population samples obtained from the WA Electoral Roll.

Main Outcome Measures

In addition to items covering sociodemographic and clinical information, the Australian Standard Classification of Occupations (ASCO), the Socioeconomic Index for Area (SEIFA), and the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) were used.

Results

One thousand seven hundred seventy (41.9%) of 4,228 questionnaires were returned. One thousand five hundred eighty (89.3%) were completed questionnaires from men aged 20.1 to 99.6 years (mean 57.9, median 59.1, standard deviation 18.5). The prevalences of any ED and of severe ED among adult males in WA, adjusted for age distribution, were 25.1 and 8.5%, respectively. Standardized to World Health Organization (WHO) World Standard Population, the corresponding prevalences were 23.4 and 7.4%. Prevalence, as well as severity, of ED increased with age. Thirty-eight percent of the participants who were married or had partners experienced ED (severe ED 19.1%). The prevalence of ED was not significantly different between “white-collar” and “blue-collar” workers. Despite the great majority of the affected participants having experienced ED for >1 year, only 14.1% reported having ever received any treatment for ED.

Conclusions

The study has provided population-based epidemiological data on ED in Western Australian men covering a wide range of ages. The finding that ED is age related, highly prevalent, and grossly underdiagnosed and undertreated is pertinent to global population aging and a rapidly aging Australian population. To facilitate comparisons across populations with different age distributions, all future population-based studies on ED should be standardized to WHO World Standard Population.
Trends in Research on Premature Ejaculation Over the Past 25 Years
Authors: Rowland David , Burek Mark
Published: July 2007

Introduction

The authors posit that, among other things, the increasing popularity of pharmacological remedies has reinvigorated research interest in premature ejaculation (PE). However, the authors also posit that the emphasis has shifted from psychological–behavioral studies to biological–pharmacological studies, thereby distracting researchers from potent psychological/relationship factors known to play important roles in the recovery of overall sexual satisfaction.

Aim

To explore actual patterns of research on PE, the authors determined trends in the overall quantity and focus of PE research over the past 25 years.

Methods

The two major databases, PsychINFO and MEDLINE, were searched from 1979 to 2006 using several key words to identify all PE-related publications.

Main Outcome Measures

Referenced articles on PE were cataloged by year and assigned to broad hypothetically and empirically based categories representing different approaches to the study of this dysfunction.

Results

MEDLINE, but not PsychINFO, exhibited a large increase in publications on PE over the past decade. Although the number of publications on PE increased only in MEDLINE, the 25-year trend showed a decline in the proportion of psychological behavior articles in both databases and a concomitant rise in biological and pharmacological articles.

Conclusions

Although several explanations might account for these research trends, the authors worry that researchers are missing the opportunity to investigate important biobehavioral interactions underlying ejaculatory response and dysfunction, and to augment the current biopharmacological paradigm by integrating cognitive–behavioral and sex therapy programs into pharmacological PE treatment.
Testosterone Therapy and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Is There a Real Connection?
Authors: Hanafy Han M.
Published: July 2007

Introduction

With the recent increased recognition and treatment of hypogonadism in men, a caution has been given that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may cause or aggravate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA).

Aim

To evaluate the scientific data behind the cautionary statements about TRT and OSA.

Main Outcome Measures

Methodology and criteria for such studies and evaluation of documents and results based on methodology, duration, and outcome of treatment.

Methods

A review of the literature on the subject of TRT and OSA was performed. The possible mechanisms of action of TRT, on breathing and respiration during sleep were explored.

Result

Historically, the first such caution came in 1978. Since then, a few similar incidence reports have been cited. The total number of patients in such reports was very small, very disproportional to the millions of patients treated with TRT. Also, there was a lack of consistent findings connecting TRT to OSA. In addition, different results may occur with physiologic replacement vs. supraphysiologic doses in regard to breathing and OSA. The studies showing the effect of TRT on OSA and breathing were all case studies with small numbers of subjects and showed little effect of TRT on OSA in the majority of case reports. Only one study using supraphysiologic doses was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, which showed a development of OSA in healthy pooled subjects. The other reports were case studies with limited numbers of subjects, suggesting an inconsistent effect of supraphysiologic TRT on OSA and breathing.

Conclusions

Cautionary statements about TRT in OSA appear frequently in the TRT literature and guidelines, despite lack of convincing evidence that TRT causes and/or aggravates OSA. Also, there is a lack of consistency in the findings connecting TRT to OSA. It is evident that the link between TRT and OSA is weak, based on methodological issues in many of the studies, and most studies involved small numbers of men. Further studies in this area are needed.
Compensatory sweating after thoracoscopic sympathectomy for primary hyperhidrosis: Single institute experience
Authors: Chan Albert Chi‐Yan , Ting Albert Chi‐Wai , Ho Pei , Poon Jensen Tung‐Chung , Cheng Stephen Wing‐Keung
Published: July 2007

Objective:  To investigate the incidence and impact of compensatory sweating (CS) after thoracoscopic sympathectomy (TS) for primary hyperhidrosis

Methods:  From June 1994 to February 2005, bilateral TS were performed for 50 patients with primary hyperhidrosis. A questionnaire to evaluate the outcome of hyperhidrosis, the severity of postoperative compensatory sweating, and its impact on social function was conducted via telephone interview in May 2005. A scoring system from zero to 100% was used to quantify the outcome of hyperhidrosis. The effect on social function and level of satisfaction with the outcome of TS was assessed.

Results:  Thirty‐six patients completed the questionnaire (overall response rate 72%). The mean age was 28 years. Thirty‐four patients experienced improvement in primary hyperhidrosis within the first week after TS and 35 patients experienced sustainable symptomatic improvement on long‐term follow up. Compensatory sweating occurred in 31 patients (86%). Nineteen of 26 patients (73%) who had been followed up for more than 1 year experienced no change in CS. Five other patients had worsening of CS over time. Only two patients reported either improvement or resolution of CS during the study period. Nevertheless, CS had no or a mild effect on the social function in the majority of patients (68%) and most patients (94%) were satisfied with the outcome of the operation.

Conclusion:  Thoracoscopic sympathectomy is an effective treatment for primary hyperhidrosis. Despite the frequent occurrence and persistence of compensatory sweating, thoracoscopic sympathectomy was considered by most patients to be a satisfactory treatment option for this disturbing condition.
Inheritance of deeper root length and grain yield in half‐diallel durum wheat (Triticum durum) crosses
Authors: Sayar R. , Khemira H. , Kharrat M.
Published: July 2007

Inheritance, heterosis and combining ability of deeper root length (DRL) and grain yield (GY) were investigated in durum wheat populations obtained from half‐diallel crossings among five parental lines differing in their DRL and GY. The study was conducted with the final objective of identifying parent lines to be used in a breeding programme to develop drought‐tolerant wheat varieties. General combining ability and specific combining ability effects were significant for both traits; however, additive gene effects were predominant over non‐additive effects. Partial dominance was ambidirectional for DRL and unidirectional for GY. Lines INRAT69 and Omrabia conferred DRL whereas Omrabia and Khiar transmitted high GY to their respective progenies. In the studied material, both characters were controlled mainly by dominant alleles, but they could also be attributed to recessive alleles although less frequently. Both broad‐sense and strict‐sense heritabilities were high for DRL, confirming the importance of additive gene effects, whereas strict‐sense heritability for GY was average, indicating the importance of interaction effects as compared with the additive effects; this could mean reduced selection efficiency for the latter trait. Thus, the expected genetic progress per cycle of selection will be lower for GY compared with DRL. Omrabia should be included in the breeding programme as a parent so that while maintaining high GY, resulting progeny should be better able to resist drought through DRL.
INULIN MILK BEVERAGES: SENSORY DIFFERENCES IN THICKNESS AND CREAMINESS USING R‐INDEX ANALYSIS OF THE RANKING DATA
Authors: VILLEGAS BEATRIZ , CARBONELL INMACULADA , COSTELL ELVIRA
Published: July 2007

Inulin has interesting functional properties, which are linked to the average degree of polymerization of its chains. The aims of this work were to explore the effect of adding different types of inulin (short chain, native and long chain) on the thickness and creaminess of milk‐beverage model systems, and to explore the possibility of using each of the three types of inulin as a fat replacer in skimmed‐milk beverages. Sensory ranking data were analyzed using the R‐index. For the two lots of samples (whole milk and skimmed milk), all samples with added inulin were perceived as significantly thicker and creamier than the samples without inulin. The fat mimetic capacity of inulin depended not only on the chain length, but also on the concentration of added inulin. In order to obtain milk beverages with reduced fat content having similar thickness and creaminess than those perceived in whole milk beverages, it was necessary to add long‐chain inulin at concentrations over 8%.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In most cases, inulin is added to different foods to supplement them in order to increase fiber ingestion, in amounts that vary between 3 and 6 g per portion, or to assure its bifidogenic nature, adding 3–8 g per portion. The results of this work provide information regarding the effects of inulin on the sensory characteristics of milk beverages, and show that applying the R‐index analysis helped detect the small perceivable differences in thickness and creaminess among the samples tested, what will be of great use in formulating low‐fat milk beverages.
AGING‐RELATED INFLUENCES ON ACTIVITY PATTERNS IN THE SUPRAHYOID MUSCLES DURING SWALLOWING: PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS
Authors: MIYAOKA YOZO , ASHIDA ICHIRO , KAWAKAMI SHIN‐YA , MIYAOKA SATOMI , IGARASHI ATSUKO , YAMADA YOSHIAKI
Published: July 2007

Swallowing‐related muscle activity patterns were compared between an elderly group and young and middle‐aged groups to evaluate whether aging affects activity patterns of swallowing‐related muscles. A new technique for evaluation of muscular activity patterns (TP technique) was used for the suprahyoid (SH) muscles during swallowing of ordinary agar and gelatin in the three groups (five subjects each). The evaluations for these test foods in the elderly group were similar to those in the young and middle‐aged groups, and statistical examination showed no significant differences among the three groups. In addition, other evaluations based on the TP technique (InP, which were calculated by subtracting the preceding TP–10 values from TP) in the elderly group differed in part from those of the other two groups for gelatin. The present results suggest that the overall activity pattern of swallowing‐related muscles is basically preserved in the elderly, but slight, partial changes occur with age.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

An aging society may increase the demand for production of special foods adjusted to some of the elderly. To respond to this demand, we need careful analysis of the characteristics of chewing and swallowing functions of the elderly. The present study showed slight and partial changes in the activity patterns of swallowing‐related muscles with age and that the “TP technique” the authors developed was useful to detect the changes. The detection suggests that the analysis of activity patterns with our technique can help designs for production of foods specially for the elderly.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SENSORY AND INSTRUMENTAL MEASUREMENTS OF TEXTURE FOR ARTISANAL AND INDUSTRIAL MANCHEGO CHEESES
Authors: VIÑAS MIGUEL ANGEL GONZÁLEZ , BALLESTEROS CRISTINA , MARTÍN‐ALVAREZ PEDRO J. , CABEZAS LOURDES
Published: July 2007

Rheological characteristics of eight Manchego cheeses (four artisanal produced from raw ewe milk and four industrial cheeses from pasteurized ewe milk) with different ripening time (2, 4, 6 and 12 months) were evaluated by uniaxial compression and descriptive sensory analysis. Both the instrumental texture measurements and the intensity of the sensory texture attributes evaluated were found to vary during ripening time because of the manufacturing procedure (artisanal and industrial). Partial least square regression was used to predict the sensory texture characteristics of these cheeses, as expressed by different parameters of texture; hardness, Young's modulus or elastic modulus, stiffness, breaking force and strain at breaking point. The models obtained yielded good results for the prediction of sensory texture characteristics of Manchego cheeses: the root mean square error of calibration and the root mean square error of prediction by cross‐validation were both below 1.1 on the unstructured 10‐point scale used in descriptive sensory texture analysis.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

While fundamental rheological tests reveal important information in relation to network structure and molecular arrangement, the results obtained in this study indicate that empirical texture evaluations work equally as well or even better at predicting sensory texture properties. The eating and cutting properties of Manchego cheese depend not only on conditions of curd formation and handling, but also on storage conditions. Not only functional properties like eating and cutting, but also flavor properties change during storage. Understanding how these changes occur can reduce the variability of the properties of current commercial cheese and can assist in new product development.
UTILIZATION OF AGGLOMERATIVE HIERARCHICAL CLUSTERING IN THE ANALYSIS OF HEDONIC SCALED CONSUMER ACCEPTABILITY DATA
Authors: SCHILLING M.W. , COGGINS P.C.
Published: July 2007

Agglomerative hierarchical clustering was utilized to group consumers together based on product preference and liking in four consumer‐based sensory studies. This statistical technique was effective at determining variations in consumer preference as a result of both processing techniques and ingredient incorporation. Results revealed that agglomerative hierarchical clustering can often improve the interpretation of consumer sensory data when compared to currently utilized analyses, and has significant applications in research projects with a sensory component. Three recommendations for conducting a comprehensive statistical analysis of hedonic scaled consumer data are: (1) perform a randomized complete block design to test treatment effects using the total data set; (2) utilize agglomerative hierarchical clustering to group panelists based on preference and liking of food products; and (3) perform randomized complete block designs within each cluster. If significant differences occur among treatments within a cluster, use a mean separation technique to determine significant differences among treatments within that cluster.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Agglomerative hierarchical clustering was coupled with traditionally used analyses in the evaluation of hedonic scaled consumer data pertaining to chicken nuggets, retorted ham, fluid milk and cooked shrimp. Coupling of cluster analysis and traditional analyses was effective at grouping consumers together based on product preference and liking. Randomized complete block designs were also utilized within each cluster for further differentiation among treatments. A full description on how to analyze hedonic scaled sensory data using agglomerative hierarchical clustering, randomized complete block designs and Fisher's least significant difference test was included in this research paper and is an effective analytical method for the evaluation of hedonic scaled consumer data.
EFFECT OF PROTEIN DISRUPTION USING PROTEOLYTIC TREATMENT ON COOKED RICE TEXTURE PROPERTIES
Authors: SALEH MOHAMMED I. , MEULLENET JEAN‐FRANCOIS
Published: July 2007

Two long‐grain rice (Oryzae sativa L.) cultivars (Wells and Francis) were harvested from Stuttgart, AR and Essex, MO at high (21.0–22.0%) and low (12.8–16.3%) moisture contents (MCs). Rice samples were soaked in distilled water, sodium phosphate buffer and sodium phosphate buffer with a 0.2% protease (PS) at 37C for 30 min before cooking. A uniaxial compression test was performed to assess cooked rice texture properties. Results showed that protease treatment resulted in a significant decrease in cooked rice firmness for all cultivars across harvest locations and harvest MC. This indicated that proteins were involved in providing structural support to the rice kernel during cooking, restricting starch granule swelling and water hydration. The increase in cooked rice MC after PS treatment provides support for this finding. Stickiness significantly (P < 0.05) increased by soaking either in water or buffer solutions. This was attributed to a greater solubilization of starch, especially amylose leaching, during cooking. Protease treatment did not significantly increase cooked rice stickiness over the buffer treatment.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The structural integrity of a rice kernel plays an important role in determining the textural properties of cooked rice. This study demonstrated that protein (i.e., through its disruption using protease) as well as lipid and starch (i.e., removal of starch and lipid during the draining and washing steps) all contribute in determining cooked rice texture properties. Results from this study indicated the possibility of reducing rice cooking duration to achieve texture properties similar to that with no protease treatment. Moreover, sticky rice products can be produced by protease treatment of rice before cooking.
THE EFFECT OF SALT, WATER AND TEMPERATURE ON WHEAT DOUGH RHEOLOGY
Authors: FARAHNAKY A. , HILL S.E.
Published: July 2007

In this study the effect of salt, water and temperature on dough rheology was modeled. Surface response methodology (D‐Optimal mode) was used in order to quantify and estimate any nonlinearity in the relationships between the parameters under study. Each variable had five levels: salt (0, 1, 2, 3, 4%), water (50, 56, 62, 68, 74%), temperature (20, 25, 30 35, 40C). Temperature, added water and salt level all had significant effects on consistency, hydration and total energy as measured by a farinograph. Addition of salt caused a decrease in consistency and total energy but increased the hydration time in particular at low water levels. The effect of salt on hydration was related to its competition with flour in water absorption. The effect of added water on consistency, hydration and total energy was negative. Added water softens the dough and decreases the hydration time and the energy required for mixing. Temperature increase had a negative effect on consistency, hydration time and total energy. Salt reduction affects the mixing process of the ingredients of dough formulation. In total, the effect of salt was low compared with temperature and added water. Using the models obtained and reported in this research, the effect of dough can be compensated by other parameters such as temperature and added water level. The models presented in this article enable the reader to play with the parameters quantitatively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

One of the ways of solving the technological problems of reduced‐salt dough and bread is to change the temperature and added water level of wheat flour dough. Using the equations presented in this article, it is possible to calculate the salt effect on consistency, hydration time and total energy of a dough formulation at a known temperature and added water level, e.g., if the salt level of a dough formulation changes from 2 to 1%, the changes required to other parameters (temperature and added water) to compensate the effect of salt can be obtained. This can have practical applications in the design of bread‐making equipments and in solving the technological problems of low‐salt breads.
IMPACT OF FREEZING TEMPERATURE ON QUALITY OF FARMED ATLANTIC COD (GADUS MORHUA L.)
Authors: MØRKØRE TURID , LILLEHOLT REIDUN
Published: July 2007

This study evaluates the impact of freezing temperature (−10,−25,−40,−55 or−70C) on thaw exudates, liquid leakage during freeze‐chilling, appearance, gaping and mechanical properties of farmed Atlantic cod fillets. Freezing temperature significantly influenced each of the characteristics studied. High temperatures (−10 and−25C) gave increased thaw exudates, and freezing at−10C gave the highest liquid leakage during freeze‐chilling. Fillets frozen at−10C had the lowest gaping and the whitest appearance. The results indicated the highest degree of toughening upon freezing at−10 or−55C, whereas the degree of toughening appeared to be similar and lower for fillets frozen at−25,−40 or−70C. The impact of freezing temperatures on the quality of farmed cod therefore appeared to be complex, but no overall beneficial effects were found by decreasing the freezing temperature below−40C.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

For the fish processing industry, it is important to define optimal freezing and frozen storage regimes that are cost efficient and at the same time preserve the fresh fillet quality. Farmed cod differ from their wild counterparts by having lower water content, lower muscle pH and thicker fillets. Hence, industrial guidelines for wild cod may not be transferable to farmed cod. This study showed no beneficial effects by decreasing the freezing temperature below −40C. Freezing and frozen storage are usually separated commercially. Results from the present study give valuable contribution to future studies aiming at defining optimal combination of freezing and frozen storage temperatures for farmed Atlantic cod.
MECHANICAL–ACOUSTIC AND SENSORY EVALUATIONS OF CORNSTARCH–WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE EXTRUDATES
Authors: CHENG E.M. , ALAVI S. , PEARSON T. , AGBISIT R.
Published: July 2007

The mechanism relating sensory perception of brittle food foams to their mechanical and acoustic properties during crushing was investigated. Cornstarch was extruded with four levels of whey protein isolate (0, 6, 12 and 18%) and two levels of in‐barrel moisture (23 and 27%). Hardness, fracturability and roughness of mass were three main sensory attributes that varied substantially between products. High correlations (r = 0.841–0.998) were observed between sensory attributes and instrumentally determined mechanical properties, including crushing force (11.2–57.9 N) and crispness work (4.6–75.8 N·mm). Based on acoustic data obtained during instrumental crushing, time‐domain signal processing and a novel voice recognition technique utilizing frequency spectrograms were successfully employed for understanding the differences in the sensory properties of various products. Microstructure features, including average cell diameter (1.00–2.94 mm), average wall thickness (0.04–0.27 mm) and cell number density (7–193 cell/cm3), were characterized noninvasively using X‐ray microtomography, and proved to be critical in relating sensory perception of the cellular extrudates to their mechanical–acoustic signatures.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The sensory perception of crispy and crunchy food products is primarily a function of their mechanical response and emission of sounds during fracture. The current study was focused on understanding these relationships in the context of brittle extruded foods. The mechanical–acoustic techniques outlined in this study have the potential of reducing the time, costs and subjectivity involved in evaluation of new foods by human panels, and can be a useful tool in the overall product development cycle. These techniques need not be limited only to food systems, as properties of any rigid, fracturable material can be characterized based on its mechanical–acoustic signature.
Antimicrobial activity of sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine by two different tests
Authors: Sassone Luciana M. , Fidel Rivail Antonio Sergio , Murad Cristiana Francescutti , Fidel Sandra Rivera , Hirata Rafael
Published: July 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial capacity of sodium hypochlorite (1% and 5%) and chlorhexidine (0.12%, 0.5% and 1%) with or without the addition of organic material (bovine serum albumin, BSA) against some bacterial samples (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum) using two activity tests (contact and diffusion agar tests). In the contact test (first model), bacterial samples were kept in contact with each irrigating solution for different time intervals: immediately (t0), 5 min (t5), 15 min (t15) and 30 min (t30). The agar diffusion test was the second model used. In half the specimens, 0.5% BSA was added to simulate organic tissue present in the root canal. Bacterial growth was evaluated for each microorganism and activity test. Each test was repeated 10 times. In the contact test, 0.12% chlorhexidine solution (CHX) did not eliminate E. faecalis at any tested time. CHX at 0.5% eliminated all strains except E. faecalis after immediate contact. All strains were eliminated by 1% CHX, 1% NaOCl and 5% NaOCl. BSA did not interfere with the antimicrobial activity of the irrigating solutions. In the agar diffusion test, all solutions exhibited zones of antimicrobial activity; however, BSA interfered with the antimicrobial activity of NaOCl and CHX. Under the condition of the contact test, the 0.12% CHX was ineffective in eliminating E. faecalis, while 0.5% CHX, 1% CHX, 1% NaOCl and 5% NaOCl showed antibacterial effectiveness against all the tested bacterial strains. The addition of an organic load interfered with the accuracy of the agar diffusion test.
Simple multiplex RT‐PCR for identifying common fusion transcripts in childhood acute leukemia
Authors: PAKAKASAMA S. , KAJANACHUMPOL S. , KANJANAPONGKUL S. , SIRACHAINAN N. , MEEKAEWKUNCHORN A. , NINGSANOND V. , HONGENG S.
Published: July 2007

Nonrandom gene rearrangements have been demonstrated in leukemic cells at diagnosis. These genetic abnormalities are associated with specific types, clinical characteristics, and prognosis of acute leukemia. Common fusion transcripts in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are TEL‐AML1, E2A‐PBX, MLL‐AF4, and BCR‐ABL (p190) and in acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) are AML‐ETO, PML‐RARA, and CBFB‐MYH11. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for detection of each individual fusion transcript is impractical and time consuming. The purpose of this study was to develop simple RT‐PCR methods to identify common fusion transcripts of newly diagnosed acute leukemia in children. Total RNA was extracted from bone marrow samples of children diagnosed with acute leukemia. Multiplex RT‐PCR panel A (ALL) included primers for TEL‐AML1, E2A‐PBX, MLL‐AF4, and BCR‐ABL (p190) whereas panel B (ANLL) composed of primers for AML‐ETO, PML‐RARA, and CBFB‐MYH11. Known leukemic cell lines were used to serve as positive controls. Eighty three children diagnosed with ALL (n = 63) and ANLL (n = 20) were included in this study. Fusion transcripts could be identified using multiplex RT‐PCR panel A for ALL and panel B for ANLL in 26/83 (31.3%) cases. In ALL samples, we found TEL‐AML1 = 16/63 (25.4%), E2A‐PBX = 3/63 (4.8%), MLL‐AF4 = 1/63 (1.6%), and BCR‐ABL = 1/63 (1.6%). Four cases of AML1‐ETO (20%) and one PML‐RARA (5%) were found in ANLL samples. In conclusion, our simple multiplex RT‐PCR for detection of fusion transcripts in childhood acute leukemia was found to be a rapid, accurate, and effective method.
Critical Evaluation of How the Rosgen Classification and Associated “Natural Channel Design” Methods Fail to Integrate and Quantify Fluvial Processes and Channel Response1
Authors: Simon A. , Doyle M. , Kondolf M. , Shields F.D. , Rhoads B. , McPhillips M.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Over the past 10 years the Rosgen classification system and its associated methods of “natural channel design” have become synonymous to some with the term “stream restoration” and the science of fluvial geomorphology. Since the mid 1990s, this classification approach has become widely adopted by governmental agencies, particularly those funding restoration projects. The purposes of this article are to present a critical review, highlight inconsistencies and identify technical problems of Rosgen’s “natural channel design” approach to stream restoration. This paper’s primary thesis is that alluvial streams are open systems that adjust to altered inputs of energy and materials, and that a form‐based system largely ignores this critical component. Problems with the use of the classification are encountered with identifying bankfull dimensions, particularly in incising channels and with the mixing of bed and bank sediment into a single population. Its use for engineering design and restoration may be flawed by ignoring some processes governed by force and resistance, and the imbalance between sediment supply and transporting power in unstable systems. An example of how C5 channels composed of different bank sediments adjust differently and to different equilibrium morphologies in response to an identical disturbance is shown. This contradicts the fundamental underpinning of “natural channel design” and the “reference‐reach approach.” The Rosgen classification is probably best applied as a communication tool to describe channel form but, in combination with “natural channel design” techniques, are not diagnostic of how to mitigate channel instability or predict equilibrium morphologies. For this, physically based, mechanistic approaches that rely on quantifying the driving and resisting forces that control active processes and ultimate channel morphology are better suited as the physics of erosion, transport, and deposition are the same regardless of the hydro‐physiographic province or stream type because of the uniformity of physical laws.
Screening of blood bank samples for the presence of malaria parasites by conventional methods and quantitative nucleic acid sequence‐based amplification (QT‐NASBA) assay
Authors: NOUR BAKRI Y. M. , MENS PÈTRA F. , SAEED OSMAN K. , MOHAMADANI AHMED A. , SCHALLIG HENK D. F. H.
Published: July 2007

The potential of screening blood donations of apparently healthy donors for the presence of malaria parasites with quantitative nucleic acid sequence‐based amplification (QT‐NASBA) technology was assessed. One hundred samples were randomly collected from blood donations at the blood bank of Wad Medani Teaching Hospital (Central Sudan) and analyzed for Plasmodium falciparum contamination by standard microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and QT‐NASBA (lower detection limit for quantification is 0.1 parasite/µL of blood; absolute lower detection limit < 0.001 parasite/µL). Presence of P. falciparum could not be demonstrated in all samples analyzed by microscopy and RDTs. Eighty out of 100 samples were analyzed by QT‐NASBA. Three samples were lost because of transportation difficulties and 17 gave an insufficient amount of RNA after extraction. Fifty‐five donations were found to be negative for P. falciparum, i.e. < 0.01 parasite/µL of blood, four samples gave a result at the cutoff of the test, i.e. parasite count between > 0.001 and 0.1 parasite/µL. However, 21 of the 80 samples (26.3%) were found to be QT‐NASBA‐positive, i.e. parasites count > 0.1/µL of blood. Mean parasite count of the positive samples was 1.73 parasites/µL (ranging between 0.13 and 18.6 parasites/µL). The present study showed the sensitivity of QT‐NASBA to detect low numbers of P. falciparum in apparently healthy donors.
THE LEGACY AND CHALLENGE OF FISCAL POLICY IN SUB‐SAHARAN AFRICA1
Authors: Siebrits F.k. , Calitz E.
Published: July 2007

This paper traces salient aspects of the evolution of fiscal policy in sub‐Saharan Africa since 1960 and highlights the need for further reforms to consolidate the gains of the recent past. The fiscal position of the sub‐Saharan African region as a whole has improved markedly during the past ten years, but most countries still face formidable fiscal challenges. To consolidate the progress made during the past decade and to tackle the remaining problems, sub‐Saharan African policymakers should remain firmly committed to sound fiscal policies.
SOUTH AFRICA'S INTERGOVERNMENTAL FISCAL RELATIONS: AN EVOLVING SYSTEM
Authors: Amusa Hammed , Mathane Philemon
Published: July 2007

Across Africa, Latin America, Asia and the transition economies of Eastern Europe, the need to enhance the capability and capacity of sub‐national governments (SNGs) in providing public goods and services has become a main theme of development programmes. Central to this theme is the need to design an intergovernmental fiscal relations (IGFR) system that enhances the effectiveness of sub‐national governments in mobilizing revenues and implementing expenditure programmes. For South Africa, the post‐1994 dispensation has involved significant reforms to the structure and administrative capacity of the three spheres of government. Critical to these reforms is the need to formulate an IGFR framework that takes cognisance of South Africa's past, and serves as an effective policy tool in ensuring that public sector service delivery is well structured and managed.

This paper provides an analysis of South Africa's evolving IGFR system. It outlines the historical evolution of the current IGFR system, identifies current challenges, and discusses implications that these challenges have for the functioning of the IGFR system. The general conclusion emerging from this study is that in the South African context, the key elements necessary for an effective IGFR system are in place. Ongoing reforms have improved the capacity of provincial and municipal authorities in carrying out their revenue and expenditure responsibilities. However, the evolving nature of South Africa's IGFR system requires that significant attention be devoted towards enhancing coordination between delivery departments and improving the capacity of many SNGs. These should not only aid the effective functioning of the IGFR system but also ensure that the gains of decentralisation are sustainable.
DEALING WITH EARNINGS BRACKET RESPONSES IN HOUSEHOLD SURVEYS – HOW SHARP ARE MIDPOINT IMPUTATIONS?
Authors: Von Fintel Dieter
Published: July 2007

Earnings functions form the basis of numerous labour market analyses. Non‐response (particularly among higher earners) may, however, lead to the exclusion of a significant proportion of South Africa's earnings base. Earnings brackets built into surveys intend to maintain response rates. Econometric tools to incorporate brackets vary from “simplistic” imputation to interval regressions. Coefficient differences are investigated here to establish reliable remedies. Monte‐Carlo simulations suggest that “simple” methods fail only under extreme skewness and when a substantial number of right‐censored observations appear in the sample. Testing procedures applied to LFS data reveal that in practice coefficients are virtually invariant to the proposed methods.
New chemotherapy for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: Pilot study of β‐interferon and doxorubicin one‐shot intra‐arterial chemotherapy
Authors: Uyama Hirokazu , Nagano Hiroaki , Nakamura Hideji , Murakami Takamichi , Nakamura Hironobu , Monden Morito , Hayashi Norio
Published: July 2007

Background:  Patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) need an effective treatment modality because of the poor prognosis of the disease. From an in vitro study, β‐interferon (IFN‐β) has been reported to enhance the antiproliferative effects of doxorubicin on HCC cell lines. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of combined IFN‐β and doxorubicin intra‐arterial injection therapy on patients with advanced HCC.

Methods:  IFN‐β (3 MIU) and doxorubicin (10 mg/bodyweight) were given by one‐shot intra‐arterial injection through an arterial port to patients with advanced HCC. One treatment course consisted of three intra‐arterial injections per week for 4 weeks. Three courses were conducted and evaluation was done monthly.

Results:  Eleven patients with advanced HCC were treated with combined IFN‐β and doxorubicin. One patient enteredcomplete remission (CR), seven patients were evaluated as having stable disease (SD) and three as having progressive disease (PD). The mean overall survival was 10 months. The mean survival for CR and SD patients was 15 months, and that for PD patients was 6 months (P = 0.0464, log–rank test). Decrease of serum total bilirubin was observed for all patients.

Conclusion:  Combined IFN‐β and doxorubicin intra‐arterial therapy offers an effective chemotherapy option for patients with advanced HCC by improving liver function and having tolerable side‐effects.
Collective repression of the hepatitis B virus enhancer II by human TR4 and TR2 orphan receptors
Authors: Lin Tzu‐Jon , Yang Ren‐You , Lee Han‐Jung
Published: July 2007

Aim:  The human testicular receptor 4 and 2 (TR4 and TR2) orphan receptors are members of the nuclear receptor superfamily that regulate target gene expression via binding to the consensus AGGTCA direct repeats of the hormone response elements. Previous studies have reported that TR4 and other nuclear receptors could bind to the direct repeat 1 element of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) core promoter.

Methods:  Differential gene expression of HBV caused by TR4 and TR2 was determined by gel retardation and functional assays.

Results:  Electrophoretic mobility shift assay demonstrated that TR4 and TR2 might bind to the direct repeat 6 element of the HBV enhancer II region. Results of the dual‐luciferasereporter gene assay showed that TR4 and TR2 might significantly suppress HBV gene expression through this direct repeat 6 element in the enhancer II.

Conclusion:  These results implied that TR4 together with its heterodimer partner TR2 could collectively play a significant role in the transcriptional suppression of HBV gene expression via the direct repeat 6 element in the enhancer II. Therefore, the application of nuclear receptors potentially may be antiviral agents in chronic HBV infection.
Hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma: Combined dynamic MDCT and SPIO‐enhanced MRI versus combined CTHA and CTAP
Authors: Imai Yasuharu , Murakami Takamichi , Hori Masatoshi , Fukuda Kazuto , Kim Tonsok , Marukawa Taro , Abe Hisashi , Kuwabara Masatomo , Onishi Hiromitu , Tsuda Kyo , Sawai Yoshiyuki , Kurokawa Masanori , Hayashi Norio , Monden Morito , Nakamura Hironobu
Published: July 2007

Aim:  Recently, many diagnostic modalities have been developed for the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Of these, a less invasive and more accurate diagnostic procedure is desirable. This study was undertaken to compare combined dynamic multidetector row helical computerized tomography (MDCT) and superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO)‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with combined CT hepatic arteriography (CTHA) and CT during arterial portography (CTAP) for the detection of hypervascular HCC.

Methods:  Forty‐eight patients with 56 pathologically proved hypervascular HCCs (less than 5.0 cm in diameter) underwent dynamic MDCT and SPIO‐enhanced MRI, as well as CTHA and CTAP. The images were reviewed by four independent and blinded readers on a tumor‐by‐tumor basis.

Results:  The mean areas under alternative‐free response receiver operating characteristic curve (Az) for combined dynamic MDCT and SPIO‐enhanced MRI (IV set) and combinedCTHA and CTAP (IA set) were comparable (0.948 and 0.969, respectively, P > 0.05), although the Az value of the IV set was significantly lower than that of the IA set in HCCs smaller than or equal to 1.5 cm (0.867 and 0.937, respectively, P = 0.033). The mean sensitivity and positive predictive value of the IV set were similar to those of the IA set.

Conclusions:  Combined dynamic MDCT and SPIO‐enhanced MRI showed a diagnostic accuracy comparable to intra‐arterial contrast‐enhanced CT (CTHA and CTAP) for hypervascular HCC, and may be a useful diagnostic option prior to curative treatments of hypervascular HCC, although a limitation exists in detecting HCCs smaller than or equal to 1.5 cm.