bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification and characterisation of antioxidative peptides from unfractionated rice bran protein hydrolysates
Authors: Adebiyi Abayomi P. , Adebiyi Ayobamitale O. , Ogawa Tomohisa , Muramoto Koji
Published: September 2009

Crude rice bran protein (CRBP) was prepared by alkaline extraction and then treated with 0.6 m HCl to remove phytic acid. The phytate‐free rice bran protein (PFRBP) was hydrolysed with proteases M, N, S, P and pepsin under optimal conditions. Hydrolysates obtained from various hydrolysis periods were subjected to analysis for their degree of hydrolysis (DH) and functional properties. The hydrolysates were fractionated by reversed‐phase column chromatography on Kaseigel ODS resin (120–140 μm) using a stepwise gradient of aqueous ethanol, and their activities were measured. The 40% ethanol fraction of protease P 4 h‐hydrolysate was separated by successive reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography and the amino acid sequences of isolated antioxidative peptides were determined by a protein sequencer and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionisation‐time of flight mass spectrometry. Crude rice bran protein had higher antioxidative activity than PFRBP, due to the presence of phytic acid. Phytate contents of rice bran, CRBP and PFRBP were 2.5%, 1.42% and 0%, respectively. The activity of PFRBP increased upon protease digestion. Protease M hydrolysates showed the highest DH, but the lowest antioxidative activity. Hydrolysates with DH below 10% had higher antioxidative activity than those above 20%. This result indicates that the antioxidative activity of the hydrolysates is inherent to their characteristics amino acid sequences of peptides depending on the protease specificities.
Effect of heat treatment and refrigerated storage on antioxidant properties of pre‐cut celery (Apium graveolens L.)
Authors: Viña Sonia Z. , Chaves Alicia R.
Published: September 2009

This work studies the effect of two types of heat treatment, dry air at 48°C for 1 h and water immersion at 50°C for 90 s, and of storage time at 0°C on a number of quality parameters for pre‐cut celery: browning potential, soluble phenols content, total flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, ascorbic acid and antioxidant capacity. Pre‐cut celery was placed in crystal polyethylene terephthalate trays covered with polyvinyl chloride film. Samples were taken after 0, 1, 7, 14 and 21 storage days. Treatments reduced browning potential and chlorogenic acid content and, in addition, allowed ascorbic acid concentration to be retained for a longer time. For this reason, the application of heat treatments in minimally processed celery would be beneficial.
Fluorescence spectroscopy in monitoring of extra virgin olive oil during storage
Authors: Sikorska Ewa , Khmelinskii Igor V. , Sikorski Marek , Caponio Francesco , Bilancia Maria T. , Pasqualone Antonella , Gomes Tommaso
Published: September 2009

The present study demonstrates the use of fluorescence spectroscopy for monitoring changes in virgin olive oil during storage. Total luminescence and synchronous scanning fluorescence spectroscopy techniques were tested with the purpose to check their ability to monitor changes occurring in olive oil during storage in different conditions: in clear and green glass bottles exposed to light, and in darkness. Total luminescence spectra of the initial oil samples in n‐hexane solutions exhibited intense peaks, one with a maximum appearing at 320 nm in emission and 290 nm in excitation, attributed to tocopherols, and another appearing at 670 nm in emission and 405 nm in excitation, belonging to the pigments of the chlorophyll group. The intensity of these emissions decreased during storage depending on the storage conditions. Additional bands appeared in oils exposed to light in the intermediate range of excitation and emission wavelengths, arising from unidentified compounds. Bands attributed to tocopherols, chlorophylls and those tentatively ascribed to phenolic compounds were observed in the synchronous scanning fluorescence spectra, allowing monitoring of the storage effects on these constituents and their quantitative assessment after appropriate calibration. The results presented confirm the capability of the fluorescence techniques to monitor the quality of oil products.
Soybean variety and storage effects on soymilk flavour and quality
Authors: Achouri Allaoua , Boye Joyce Irene , Zamani Youness
Published: September 2009

Soymilk prepared from five soybean cultivars, grown in Ontario, were analysed for protein, oil, mineral composition, viscosity, colour, lipoxygenase (LOX) activities and flavour profile. Among the five soybean cultivars, the Vinton 81 variety contained the highest protein and the lowest fat. The yield of soymilk from all five cultivars was similar. Major differences were observed in viscosity and in the composition of both the soymilk and the okara. Higher protein and fat extractability was found in soymilk made from S08‐80 and Vinton 81 varieties. Their okara protein contents were also among the highest. Minimum extractability was observed with S03W4 cultivar. Soymilk made from S 03W4 and Vinton 81 cultivars had the whitest colour (lowest ΔE values). Viscosity values were the highest for S08‐80, FG1 and S20‐20 varieties. Headspace solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography was used to analyse volatile compounds in soymilk. A total of fourteen volatiles were identified, among which aldehydes and their corresponding alcohols were the major compounds. Similar volatile compounds were identified in all the samples analysed but at different concentrations. The highest LOX activity was observed in the Vinton 81 and S20‐20 soybean cultivars, which had the highest total volatile and hexanal contents. A positive correlation (correlation coefficient = 0.82) between enzymatic activity and the total volatiles was observed. Vinton 81 cultivar was subjected to storage (at 18 °C and 50% relative humidity) for a period of 10 months. Soymilk was prepared at different times during storage. The results showed that the soymilk colour, LOX and total volatiles were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by the storage of the soybeans over time.
Microbiological and biochemical quality of grouper (Epinephelus chlorostigma) stored in dry ice and water ice
Authors: Jeyasekaran Geevarethnam , Anandaraj Ramasamy , Ganesan Ponesakki , Jeya Shakila Robinson , Sukumar Duraisamy
Published: September 2009

The changes in the microbiological and biochemical quality of grouper (Epinephelus chlorostigma) stored in dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) were investigated. Fresh fish stored in dry ice at the ratio of 1:1 (wt/wt) were found to be organoleptically suitable for consumption when they were stored for 30 h without re‐icing. Fish stored in water ice (as control) at the ratio of 1:1 (wt/wt) and in a combination of dry ice and water ice at the ratio of 1:0.2:0.5 (wt/wt/wt) were acceptable up to 18 and 24 h, respectively. Total bacterial load ranged from 105 to 107 CFU g−1, while total psychrophiles from 103 to 106 CFU g−1. Total lactics were found in the levels of 102–104 CFU g−1. Total volatile basic nitrogen contents were within the limit of acceptability in all the three treatments, whereas trimethylamine nitrogen content exceeded the limit (15 mg%) and hypoxanthine content was 11.11 mg (100 g)−1 on the 30 h in grouper stored only in dry ice. Lowest temperature of −5.8 °C was recorded in grouper stored only in dry ice. Hundred percent CO2 environment within the package was found in grouper that were stored in dry ice and combination of dry ice and water ice.
Possibility of using near infrared spectroscopy for evaluation of bacterial contamination in shredded cabbage
Authors: Suthiluk Phunsiri , Saranwong Sirinnapa , Kawano Sumio , Numthuam Sonthaya , Satake Takaaki
Published: September 2009

The possibility of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to measure the amount of bacterial contamination in shredded cabbage was investigated. NIR measurements in the short wavelength region from 700 to 1100 nm were done using two types of saline solutions: one was used to stomach with the samples as the conventional method and the other was used to wash the outer surface of the sample to examine the possibility of a non‐destructive method. Partial least squares regression (PLS) was used to develop the equations for bacterial amount. Spectra from the stomacher solution and the washing solution produced similar results. Sufficiently accurate results could be obtained with the bias‐corrected standard error of prediction (SEPs) of 0.46 log CFU g−1 for the stomacher solution and 0.44 log CFU g−1 for the washing solution. NIR spectroscopy was clarified to be a rapid and non‐destructive method for prediction of bacterial contamination in shredded cabbage.
Production of a dry sausage from African catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell, 1822): microbial, chemical and sensory evaluations
Authors: Oksuz Abdullah , Akdemir Evrendilek Gulsun , Calis Muzaffer Seufi , Ozeren Akif
Published: September 2009

Production of a dry sausage from African catfish and determination of its microbial, chemical and sensory properties during a 70‐day storage at both 4 and 22 °C were prompted. pH of the samples at 4 and 22 °C did not significantly change during the storage (P > 0.05). Moisture content of the samples was 74%, and reduced to 45% at 4 °C and to 22% at 22 °C. Protein content of the samples was 20.71%, and increased to 42.5% at 4 °C and to 57.99% at 22 °C. Total lipid content was 4.5%, and increased to 10.98% at 4 °C and to 15.68% at 22 °C (P < 0.05). Microbial analyses showed that there was a significant reduction in total aerobic mesophilic and psychrotrophilic bacteria, total mould and yeast, total lactic acid bacteria, total Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus aureus counts at both 4 and 22 °C (P < 0.05). Samples stored at 4 °C had significantly higher sensory ratings than that of the samples stored at 22 °C (P < 0.05).
Peroxidase activity, chlorophylls and antioxidant profile of two leaf vegetables (Solanum nigrum L. and Amaranthus cruentus L.) under six pretreatment methods before cooking
Authors: Adebooye Odunayo Clement , Vijayalakshmi Ram , Singh Vasudeva
Published: September 2009

The study evaluated the effects of six pretreatment methods before cooking on the peroxidase activity, chlorophyll and antioxidant profile of Amaranthus cruentus L. and Solanum nigrum L. The six pretreatments methods used were chopped only (raw sample) (coded M1); chopped and dried at 50 °C for 5 h (coded M2); chopped and squeezed in water (at room temperature) (coded M3); chopped and soaked in warm water (approximately 60 °C), then cooled and squeezed (coded M4); chopped and soaked in salt‐treated water (approximately 20 g NaCl per litre of water) for 15 min, then squeezed (coded M5) and chopped and soaked in boiling water (100 °C), then cooled and squeezed (coded M6). The main effect of vegetable type and the main effect of pretreatment methods have significant effects (P  0.05) on the parameters measured, while the interaction of vegetable type and pretreatment methods have no significant effect on the parameters measured. Statistical analyses (P  0.05) showed that chlorophyll a and b occur in ratio 3:1 in the two vegetables, irrespective of the pretreatment imposed. Peroxidase activity test showed that A. cruentus, irrespective of the pretreatment imposed showed, no peroxidase activity, while S. nigrum showed high peroxidase activity for all the pretreatments except for M6. Results showed that there was a significantly (P  0.05) higher content of carotenoids in A. cruentus when compared with S. nigrum, while the total phenolics, total flavonoids and total tannins contents were higher in S. nigrum when compared with A. cruentus, irrespective of the pretreatment method used. For the two vegetables, the percentage losses in total carotenoids, phenolics, flavonoids and total tannins at M6 when compared with M1 were 53.3–60.5%, 55.6–57.1%, 62.4–63.6% and 66.1–73.5%, respectively. There was a sharp drop in the carotenoids, phenolics, flavonoids and tannins contents of the two vegetables at M4 and M6, with both treatments having closely similar values for each parameter.
Anti‐oxidant capacity of dietary polyphenols determined by ABTS assay: a kinetic expression of the results
Authors: Pérez‐Jiménez Jara , Saura‐Calixto Fulgencio
Published: September 2009

The 2, 2′‐Azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenz‐thiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS)/Trolox equivalent anti oxidant capacity (TEAC) assay, which measures the ability of compounds to scavenge the ABTS radical cation (ABTS•+) in relation to Trolox (TEAC) is one of the most widely used methods to determine anti oxidant capacity. Usually, the measurements are based on a fixed end‐point (4–6 min), which may not take into account the different kinetic behaviour of anti‐oxidants. The aim of this work was to propose a kinetic procedure for ABTS•+ assay, by using the kinetic parameters ED50, tEC50 and AE [antiradical efficiency = 1/(ED50 × tEC50)], previously applied to the 2, 2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) assay. It was found that some polyphenols standards – ferulic acid, resveratrol and others‐have not yet completed their reaction at the fixed end‐point. The consideration of kinetic parameters in this method may provide a more thorough understanding of the behaviour of the anti‐oxidants. A comparison of the activity of anti‐oxidants measured by the scavenging of ABTS•+ with that of DPPH• was also carried out.
Thinking strategies used by Registered Nurses during emergency department triage
Authors: Göransson Katarina E. , Ehnfors Margareta , Fonteyn Marsha E. , Ehrenberg Anna
Published: September 2009

Title.  Thinking strategies used by Registered Nurses during emergency department triage

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to describe and compare thinking strategies and cognitive processing in the emergency department triage process by Registered Nurses with high and low triage accuracy.

Background.  Sound clinical reasoning and accurate decision‐making are integral parts of modern nursing practice and are of vital importance during triage in emergency departments. Although studies have shown that individual and contextual factors influence the decisions of Registered Nurses in the triage process, others have failed to explain the relationship between triage accuracy and clinical experience. Furthermore, no study has shown the relationship between Registered Nurses’ thinking strategies and their triage accuracy.

Method.  Using the ‘think aloud’ method, data were collected in 2004–2005 from 16 RNs working in Swedish emergency departments who had previously participated in a study examining triage accuracy. Content analysis of the data was performed.

Findings.  The Registered Nurses used a variety of thinking strategies, ranging from searching for information, generating hypotheses to stating propositions. They structured the triage process in several ways, beginning by gathering data, generating hypotheses or allocating acuity ratings. Comparison of participants’ use of thinking strategies and the structure of the triage process based on their previous triage accuracy revealed only slight differences.

Conclusion.  The wide range of thinking strategies used by Registered Nurses when performing triage indicates that triage decision‐making is complex. Further research is needed to ascertain which skills are most important in triage decision‐making.
Global efforts to improve palliative care: the International End‐of‐Life Nursing Education Consortium Training Programme
Authors: Paice Judith A. , Ferrell Betty R. , Coyle Nessa , Coyne Patrick , Callaway Mary
Published: September 2009

Title.  Global efforts to improve palliative care: the International End‐of‐Life Nursing Education Consortium Training Programme

Aim.  This paper is a report of an evaluation study to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of the End‐of‐Life Nursing Education Consortium‐International training conference in providing education and support materials to participants so they might return to their home countries and disseminate palliative care information.

Background.  More than 50 million people die each year, many without access to adequate pain control or palliative care. Numerous barriers to implementation of palliative care exist, including lack of education provided to healthcare professionals regarding these principles. Because they spend the most time with patients and their families, nurses have the greatest potential to change the way palliative care is provided.

Method.  A Course Evaluation Form and a Postcourse Activity Evaluation was completed by a convenience sample of 38 nurses from 14 Eastern and Central European, former Soviet, and Central Asian countries. The data were collected in 2006 using Likert scales and open‐ended questions.

Findings.  Evaluations of speakers ranged from a mean of 4·4 to 4·9 on the 5‐point scale, with five denoting the highest level. The mean rating of the conference overall was 4·9. Strengths included the professional level of presentations, practical, clinically based content, extensive resources and availability of the educators.

Conclusion.  The first End‐of‐Life Nursing Education Consortium‐International training programme demonstrated the feasibility of providing high‐quality, essential education to nurses from a variety of countries. Because End‐of‐Life Nursing Education Consortium is designed as a train‐the‐trainer programme, assistance with translation to native languages, along with textbooks and other resources, is needed to allow participants to fully implement this curriculum.
Health promotion and health education practice: nurses’ perceptions
Authors: Whitehead Dean , Wang Yonghuan , Wang Jianhong , Zhang Jing , Sun Zhen , Xie Chen
Published: September 2009

Title.  Health promotion and health education practice: nurses’ perceptions

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explore nurses’ perceptions of health promotion and health education practice in a Chinese provincial hospital.

Background.  Health promotion and health education practices are based on universal constructs. Therefore, such practices should share common principles. To date, most nursing‐related studies have been conducted in Europe or in North America.

Method.  A Husserlian phenomenological approach was adopted. Interviews were conducted in 2006 with a sample of eight nursing students and eight senior nurses. The interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed from Mandarin to English. Data analysis adhered to the framework developed by Giorgi.

Results.  Reported health education and health promotion‐related practices showed results similar to those reported in Europe and North America. Hospital‐based nurses were often aware of what health promotion is, but did not have the scope or opportunity to implement it in practice. Instead, they were likely to conduct more limited forms of health education. Actual understanding of health promotion and health education constructs was high with most participants, underpinned by active clinical‐based educational support. Some participants were able to conduct broader health promotion activities on a voluntary basis in their own communities.

Conclusion.  Health education and health promotion are universal health‐related constructs. Thus, there is an expectation that all nurses will implement these in a similar fashion. Where possible, hospital‐based nurses should strive to improve their health education practices and further embrace wider perspectives of health promotion practice.
Managing pain in chronic kidney disease: patient participation in decision‐making
Authors: Manias Elizabeth , Williams Allison
Published: September 2009

Title.  Managing pain in chronic kidney disease: patient participation in decision‐making

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to examine how decisions about managing pain were made between patients with chronic kidney disease and nurses, what affected the decision style and the types of analgesics and adjuvant therapies given for pain relief in relation to a particular decision style.

Background.  While pain often accompanies chronic kidney disease, little is known of how decisions are made about managing pain in clinical practice. Lack of patient involvement in decision‐making may lead to inadequate care provision. In some care situations, nurses have been more concerned with medication side effects than giving effective pain relief.

Method.  An exploratory study was conducted, using observations and interviews with a purposive sample of 14 nurses and 53 patients in five adult renal units in Australia. The data were collected during 2004.

Findings.  Of the 103 pain activities observed, 78 involved a passive decision style between the nurse and patient, 19 involved a collaborative decision style, and six used an active decision style. The majority of routine analgesic and adjuvant medications administered involved a passive decision style. Most importantly, 25·6% of passive style decisions observed resulted in no administration of an analgesic or adjuvant medication; however, all collaborative and active style decisions observed resulted in administration of an analgesic or adjuvant medication.

Conclusion.  Nurses need actively to encourage patient involvement in treatment decisions because this promotes effective pain control. More research is needed into how specific detailed information about pain treatments could improve patient participation in decision‐making.
Quality of life for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Vellone Ercole , Piras Giovanni , Talucci Carlo , Cohen Marlene Zichi
Published: September 2009

Title.  Quality of life for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to describe the meaning of quality of life for caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and to identify factors that affect their quality of life.

Background.  The burden for informal caregivers and change in their quality of life can lead to patients being placed in nursing homes. Factors found to worsen caregivers’ quality of life include strained finances, poor family functioning, difficult patient behaviour, financial burdens and the amount of time caregivers spend caring for family members with Alzheimer’s disease.

Method.  A hermeneutic phenomenological design was used to study 32 informal caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Data were collected using interviews between November 2004 and June 2005.

Findings.  Caregivers associated good quality of life with serenity, tranquility, psychological well‐being, freedom, general well‐being, good health and good financial status. Factors that caregivers said improved their quality of life were good health of the patient, independence from the patient, and more help in caregiving. Factors that worsened their quality of life were worries about the future and progression of the patient’s illness and stress.

Conclusion.  Our findings may help healthcare professionals have a deeper understanding of the meaning caregivers give to quality of life and thereby aid in the design of strategies to maintain or improve quality of life. Intervention research is needed for caregivers in countries where this has not yet been performed. Researchers should also investigate whether different types of caregivers (spouse, adult child and friend) have different needs or problems.
Sexuality and personal relationships for people with an intellectual disability. Part II: staff and family carer perspectives
Authors: Evans D. S. , McGuire B. E. , Healy E. , Carley S. N.
Published: September 2009

Background  Recent ideological shifts in service provision promote appropriate sexual expression for people with an intellectual disability (ID), although there is little evidence that such advances in ideology are matched by current service provision. Part II of the current two‐part study assessed the attitudes of staff and family carers to the sexuality of people with an ID.

Method  A questionnaire survey which included case scenarios was carried out with family (n = 155) and staff carers (n = 153) of people with an ID in the west of Ireland.

Results  In general, staff carers were more inclined than family carers to openly discuss issues of sexuality with service users, and to suggest environmental, rather than service‐user characteristics, as impediments to such discussions. Attitudinal differences emerged with significant differences between staff and family carers and between younger and older carers. Staff carers were more likely to support service‐user engagement in intimate and non‐intimate relationships whereas the majority of family carers (80%) showed a preference for low levels of intimacy in service‐user relationships.

Conclusion  When compared with the attitudes of family carers towards the sexuality of people with ID, the attitudes of staff carers more closely match those promoted by ideological developments. However, differences in attitudes between carer groups may lead to inconsistent approaches to the management of sexuality. As a consequence, we conclude that there is continued need to provide staff and family carers with opportunities for dialogue and an ongoing need for training in the area of sexuality.
The place and promotion of well‐being in mental health services: a qualitative investigation
Authors: OWENS C. , CRONE D. , KILGOUR L. , EL ANSARI W.
Published: September 2009

Accessible summary

The study investigated the place and promotion of well‐being from the perspectives of services users and mental health professionals.

Data from focus groups and interviews were analysed and found that well‐being promotion was available, for example weight management groups in mental health services. However, they also found that there were some contradictions between the groups of people interviewed about what was available and what to promote in the future.

The study concludes suggesting partnerships with local communities to further develop well‐being services, such as opportunities for physical activity, for people with mental health problems.

This study explored service users' and mental health professionals' understandings, experiences and opinions of well‐being and its promotion within mental health services. A qualitative case study methodology included nine participants (five adult service users, three mental health professionals, one senior manager) who were purposively sampled from a Mental Health Trust in England. Service users participated in a focus group, while individual semi‐structured interviews were held with the mental health professionals and senior manager. Interpretative phenomenological analysis of the data revealed five main themes including well‐being as a holistic concept; well‐being promotion; the place, promotion and position of well‐being; role of mental health services in well‐being promotion; and areas for further improvement. Findings revealed evidence of well‐being promotion; however, there were contradictions regarding what was known between the groups of participants and what could be provided in the future. Implications for practice include the need to establish more effective partnership working between mental health services and local communities, especially in light of financial constraints within health services at large. This could assist the increased provision of therapeutic services for well‐being promotion.
Hypoxia‐induced changes in recovery sleep, core body temperature, urinary 6‐sulphatoxymelatonin and free cortisol after a simulated long‐duration flight
Authors: COSTE OLIVIER , VAN BEERS PASCAL , TOUITOU YVAN
Published: September 2009

Fatigue and sleep disorders often occur after long‐haul flights, even when no time zones are crossed. In this controlled study, we assessed the effects of two levels of hypoxia (at 8000 ft and 12 000 ft) on recovery sleep. Core body temperature (CBT), a circadian marker, urinary 6‐sulphatoxymelatonin and free cortisol were studied in 20 young healthy male volunteers exposed for 8 h (08:00–16:00 hours) in a hypobaric chamber to a simulated cabin altitude of 8000 ft and, 4 weeks later, 12 000 ft. Each subject served as his own control. Sleep was recorded by polysomnography for three consecutive nights for each exposure. CBT was monitored by telemetry during the three 24‐h cycles (control, hypoxic exposure and recovery). Free urinary cortisol and 6‐sulphatoxymelatonin levels were assayed twice daily between 08:00 and 20:00 hours (day) and between 20:00 and 08:00 hours (night). We showed significant changes in circadian patterns of CBT at both altitudes, suggesting a phase delay, and changes in recovery sleep but only at 12 000 ft. We observed an increase in sleep onset latency which correlated positively with the increase in CBT levels during the first recovery night and a decrease in the duration of stage N2 (formerly S2), which correlated negatively with the mid‐range crossing time, a reliable phase marker of CBT rhythm. This study shows clearly the impact of hypobaric hypoxia on circadian time structure during air flights leading to a phase delay of CBT, independent of jet lag and consequences on sleep during recovery.
Treatment effects on brain activity during a working memory task in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: ALOIA MARK S. , SWEET LAWRENCE H. , JERSKEY BETH A. , ZIMMERMAN MOLLY , TODD ARNEDT JOHN , MILLMAN RICHARD P.
Published: September 2009

Positive airway pressure (PAP) is the most common form of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Treatment adherence is notoriously low, and holidays from treatment are common. To date, there is no literature on the effects of acute withdrawal from PAP treatment on the brain activity of individuals with OSA. Nine participants with OSA performed a 2‐Back verbal working memory paradigm during repeated functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI). Counterbalanced FMRI sessions were under conditions of PAP treatment (at least one consecutive week) or non‐treatment (for two consecutive nights). Treatment effects on 2‐Back‐related brain activity were significant, with greater deactivation in the right posterior insula and overactivation in the right inferior parietal lobule. The observed responses to PAP treatment withdrawal were more extreme in all regions of interest, such that 2‐Back‐related activity increased and 2‐Back‐related deactivation decreased further relative to the 0‐Back control task. The withdrawal of PAP treatment in effectively treated individuals with OSA might result in the need to reallocate resources in order to perform at the same cognitive level.
Seasonal and latitudinal acclimatization of cardiac transcriptome responses to thermal stress in porcelain crabs, Petrolisthes cinctipes
Authors: STILLMAN JONATHON H. , TAGMOUNT ABDERRAHMANE
Published: September 2009

Central predictions of climate warming models include increased climate variability and increased severity of heat waves. Physiological acclimatization in populations across large‐scale ecological gradients in habitat temperature fluctuation is an important factor to consider in detecting responses to climate change related increases in thermal fluctuation. We measured in vivo cardiac thermal maxima and used microarrays to profile transcriptome heat and cold stress responses in cardiac tissue of intertidal zone porcelain crabs across biogeographic and seasonal gradients in habitat temperature fluctuation. We observed acclimatization dependent induction of heat shock proteins, as well as unknown genes with heat shock protein‐like expression profiles. Thermal acclimatization had the largest effect on heat stress responses of extensin‐like, beta tubulin, and unknown genes. For these genes, crabs acclimatized to thermally variable sites had higher constitutive expression than specimens from low variability sites, but heat stress dramatically induced expression in specimens from low variability sites and repressed expression in specimens from highly variable sites. Our application of ecological transcriptomics has yielded new biomarkers that may represent sensitive indicators of acclimatization to habitat temperature fluctuation. Our study also has identified novel genes whose further description may yield novel understanding of cellular responses to thermal acclimatization or thermal stress.
The antibacterial activity of peptides derived from human beta‐2 glycoprotein I is inhibited by protein H and M1 protein from Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Nilsson Maria , Wasylik Sylwia , Mörgelin Matthias , Olin Anders I. , Meijers Joost C. M. , Derksen Ronald H. W. M. , De Groot Philip G. , Herwald Heiko
Published: September 2009

During the last years, the importance of antibacterial peptides has attracted considerable attention. We report here that peptides derived from the fifth domain of beta‐2 glycoprotein I (β2GPI), a human heparin binding plasma protein, have antibacterial activities against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. Streptococcus pyogenes, an important human pathogen that can survive and grow in human blood, has developed mechanisms to escape the attack by these peptides. Thus, protein H and M1 protein, two surface proteins of the highly pathogenic S. pyogenes AP1 strain, bind full‐length β2GPI and thereby prevent the processing of β2GPI by proteases from polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) into antibacterial peptides. In addition, protein H and M1 protein, released from the bacterial cell wall by PMN‐derived proteases, bind to, and inhibit the activity of, β2GPI‐derived antibacterial peptides. Taken together, the data suggest that the interaction between the streptococcal proteins and β2GPI or β2GPI‐derived peptides presents a novel mechanism to resist an antibacterial attack by β2GPI‐cleavage products.
A bifunctional DNA binding region in Tn5 transposase
Authors: Gradman Richard J. , Ptacin Jerod L. , Bhasin Archna , Reznikoff William S. , Goryshin Igor Y.
Published: September 2009

Tn5 transposition is a complicated process that requires the formation of a highly ordered protein–DNA structure, a synaptic complex, to catalyse the movement of a sequence of DNA (transposon) into a target DNA. Much is known about the structure of the synaptic complex and the positioning of protein–DNA contacts, although many protein–DNA contacts remain largely unstudied. In particular, there is little evidence for the positioning of donor DNA and target DNA. In this communication, we describe the isolation and analysis of mutant transposases that have, for the first time, provided genetic and biochemical evidence for the stage‐specific positioning of both donor and target DNAs within the synaptic complex. Furthermore, we have provided evidence that some of the amino acids that contact donor DNA also contact target DNA, and therefore suggest that these amino acids help define a bifunctional DNA binding region responsible for these two transposase–DNA binding events.
Rhizobium common nod genes are required for biofilm formation
Authors: Fujishige Nancy A. , Lum Michelle R. , De Hoff Peter L. , Whitelegge Julian P. , Faull Kym F. , Hirsch Ann M.
Published: September 2009

In legume nitrogen‐fixing symbioses, rhizobial nod genes are obligatory for initiating infection thread formation and root nodule development. Here we show that the common nod genes, nodD1ABC, whose products synthesize core Nod factor, a chitin‐like oligomer, are also required for the establishment of the three‐dimensional architecture of the biofilm of Sinorhizobium meliloti. Common nod gene mutants form a biofilm that is a monolayer. Moreover, adding Nod Factor antibody to S. meliloti cells inhibits biofilm formation, while chitinase treatment disrupts pre‐formed biofilms. These results attest to the involvement of core Nod factor in rhizobial biofilm establishment. However, luteolin, the plant‐derived inducer of S. meliloti's nod genes, is not required for mature biofilm formation, although biofilm establishment is enhanced in the presence of this flavonoid inducer. Because biofilm formation is plant‐inducer‐independent and because all nodulating rhizobia, both alpha‐ and beta‐proteobacteria have common nod genes, the role of core Nod factor in biofilm formation is likely to be an ancestral and evolutionarily conserved function of these genes.
Maturation of Streptococcus pneumoniae lipoproteins by a type II signal peptidase is required for ABC transporter function and full virulence
Authors: Khandavilli Suneeta , Homer Karen A. , Yuste Jose , Basavanna Shilpa , Mitchell Timothy , Brown Jeremy S.
Published: September 2009

Cell surface lipoproteins are important for the full virulence of several bacterial pathogens, including Streptococcus pneumoniae. Processing of prolipoproteins seems to be conserved among different bacterial species, and requires type II signal peptidase (Lsp) mediated cleavage of the N‐terminal signal peptide to form the mature lipoprotein. Lsp has been suggested as a target for new antibiotic therapies, but at present there are only limited data on the function of Lsp for Gram‐positive bacterial pathogens. We have investigated the function and role during disease pathogenesis of the S. pneumoniae Lsp, which, blast searches suggest, is encoded by the gene Sp0928. Expression of Sp0928 protected Escherichia coli against the Lsp antagonist globomycin, and proteomics and immunoblot analysis demonstrated that deletion of Sp0928 prevented processing of S. pneumoniae prolipoproteins to mature lipoproteins. These data strongly suggest that Sp0928 encodes the S. pneumoniae Lsp. However, immunoblots of membrane‐associated proteins, immunoelectron microscopy and flow cytometry assays all confirmed that in the absence of Lsp, immature lipoproteins were still attached to the cell surface. Despite preservation of lipoprotein attachment to the cell membrane, loss of S. pneumoniae Lsp resulted in several phenotypes associated with impaired lipoprotein function and reduced S. pneumoniae replication in animal models of infection.
The Scl1 protein of M6‐type group A Streptococcus binds the human complement regulatory protein, factor H, and inhibits the alternative pathway of complement
Authors: Caswell Clayton C. , Han Runlin , Hovis Kelley M. , Ciborowski Pawel , Keene Douglas R. , Marconi Richard T. , Lukomski Slawomir
Published: September 2009

Non‐specific activation of the complement system is regulated by the plasma glycoprotein factor H (FH). Bacteria can avoid complement‐mediated opsonization and phagocytosis through acquiring FH to the cell surface. Here, we characterize an interaction between the streptococcal collagen‐like protein Scl1.6 of M6‐type group A Streptococcus (GAS) and FH. Using affinity chromatography with immobilized recombinant Scl1.6 protein, we co‐eluted human plasma proteins with molecular weight of 155 kDa, 43 kDa and 38 kDa. Mass spectrometry identified the 155 kDa band as FH and two other bands as isoforms of the FH‐related protein‐1. The identities of all three bands were confirmed by Western immunoblotting with specific antibodies. Structure–function relation studies determined that the globular domain of the Scl1.6 variant specifically binds FH while fused to collagenous tails of various lengths. This binding is not restricted to Scl1.6 as the phylogenetically linked Scl1.55 variant also binds FH. Functional analyses demonstrated the cofactor activity of the rScl1.6‐bound FH for factor I‐mediated cleavage of C3b. Finally, purified FH bound to the Scl1.6 protein present in the cell wall material obtained from M6‐type GAS. In conclusion, we have identified a functional interaction between Scl1 and plasma FH, which may contribute to GAS evasion of complement‐mediated opsonization and phagocytosis.
An atypical orthologue of 6‐pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase can provide the missing link in the folate biosynthesis pathway of malaria parasites
Authors: Dittrich Sabine , Mitchell Sarah L. , Blagborough Andrew M. , Wang Qi , Wang Ping , Sims Paul F. G. , Hyde John E.
Published: September 2009

Folate metabolism in malaria parasites is a long‐standing, clinical target for chemotherapy and prophylaxis. However, despite determination of the complete genome sequence of the lethal species Plasmodium falciparum, the pathway of de novo folate biosynthesis remains incomplete, as no candidate gene for dihydroneopterin aldolase (DHNA) could be identified. This enzyme catalyses the third step in the well‐characterized pathway of plants, bacteria, and those eukaryotic microorganisms capable of synthesizing their own folate. Utilizing bioinformatics searches based on both primary and higher protein structures, together with biochemical assays, we demonstrate that P. falciparum cell extracts lack detectable DHNA activity, but that the parasite possesses an unusual orthologue of 6‐pyruvoyltetrahydropterin synthase (PTPS), which simultaneously gives rise to two products in comparable amounts, the predominant of which is 6‐hydroxymethyl‐7,8‐dihydropterin, the substrate for the fourth step in folate biosynthesis (catalysed by 6‐hydroxymethyl‐7,8‐dihydropterin pyrophosphokinase; PPPK). This can provide a bypass for the missing DHNA activity and thus a means of completing the biosynthetic pathway from GTP to dihydrofolate. Supported by site‐directed mutagenesis experiments, we ascribe the novel catalytic activity of the malarial PTPS to a Cys to Glu change at its active site relative to all previously characterized PTPS molecules, including that of the human host.
Distinct regulators control the expression of methanol methyltransferase isozymes in Methanosarcina acetivorans C2A
Authors: Bose Arpita , Metcalf William W.
Published: September 2009

The mtaCB1, mtaCB2 and mtaCB3 operons encode isozymes of methanol methyltransferases in Methanosarcina acetivorans C2A and are among the most highly regulated genes known in Archaea. Here we identify cis and trans acting elements that affect the expression of these operons. In vivo reporter gene constructs expressed from sequentially truncated promoters show that the mRNA transcripts for these operons have large 5′ untranslated regions. Regions upstream of the transcription start site (TSS) are important for induction of the mtaCB1 and mtaCB2 operons and for repression of the mtaCB3. Regions downstream of the TSS are important for expression of the mtaCB2 and mtaCB3 operons, but are dispensable for mtaCB1 expression. Proteins encoded by the MA0459 and MA0460 loci are required for induction of the mtaCB1 operon, while those encoded by MA4383, MA4397 and MA4398 are required for induction of mtaCB2. Proteins encoded by MA4397 and MA4398 are also required for methanol‐specific repression of the mtaCB3 operon and, thus, are the first archaeal examples of regulatory proteins that simultaneously act in both repression and activation. We refer to these genes as methanol‐specific regulators and designate MA0459, MA0460, MA4383, MA4397 and MA4398 as msrA, msrB, msrC, msrD and msrE respectively.
Identification of Rv2041c, a Novel Immunogenic Antigen from Mycobacterium tuberculosis with Serodiagnostic Potential
Authors: Kim S.‐Y. , Shin A.‐R. , Kim H.‐J. , Cho S.‐N. , Park J.‐K. , Shin S. J.
Published: September 2009

Novel immunogenic antigens are continually required for the improvement of diagnostic techniques for Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Some proteins with serodiagnostic value are not expressed under normal culture conditions, but may be induced under specific conditions such as gradual oxygen depletion and low pH, and from inside macrophages. Using a customized amplification library, we previously found that Rv2041c from M. tuberculosis H37Rv was highly expressed in vitro under conditions of low pH and hypoxia. In this study, recombinant (r)Rv2041c was produced in Escherichia coli to examine its role in immune responses. Increased Rv2041c expression in vitro during dormancy and during infection in human macrophages was confirmed by Western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Interestingly, positive antibody responses to rRv2041c were detected only in those patients with active tuberculosis (TB) and in mice infected with M. tuberculosis H37Rv. Finally, Rv2041c was used successfully in the serodiagnosis of active M. tuberculosis infection in Korean patients in conjunction with other M. tuberculosis proteins, including Ag85 complex, 38 kDa, rESAT‐6, rHSP‐X and rCFP‐10. Our Rv2041c–ELISA had comparable diagnostic sensitivity and equivalent specificity to the use of an M. tuberculosis H37Rv cellular extract. In addition, seven of 46 serum samples collected from TB patients (15.28%) showed positive antibody responses to Rv2041c, but not to the other proteins. These results suggest that Rv2041c can be used to increase assay sensitivity alongside well‐known antigens for the serodiagnosis of M. tuberculosis infection.
The predominance of IgG4 in prodromal bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Lamb Philina M. , Patton Timothy , Deng Jau‐Shyong
Published: September 2009

Ab stract

Background  Prodromal bullous pemphigoid (PBP) and bullous pemphigoid (BP) demonstrate immunoglobulin G (IgG) and/or C3 deposition at the basement membrane zone (BMZ) on direct immunofluorescence. BP‐180‐specific IgG1, IgG4, and IgE antibodies have been detected in BP. However, the distribution of IgG subclasses is unknown in PBP.

Objectives  We will describe the role of anti‐BMZ IgG subclasses in PBP and we will correlate these findings to better understand the pathogenesis of PBP.

Methods  Skin biopsies and serum samples were obtained from 45 patients who had PBP. The skin tissue was processed for direct immunofluorescence studies. Sera were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence for the presence of circulating anti‐BMZ IgG antibodies (by standard IIF) and IgG subclasses antibodies (by sandwich double antibody immunofluorescence [SDAI]). Sera were also analyzed for antibodies against BP‐180 and BP‐230 antigens by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results  Thirty‐two patients (71%) had IgG and C3 staining at the BMZ, while 13 patients (29%) had isolated C3 staining at the BMZ on direct immunofluorescence. All patients demonstrated staining on the epidermal side of the salt‐split skin. Of the seven skin specimens that were available for C5‐9 SDAI testing, all were found to be positive along BMZ area. Standard IIF studies demonstrated the presence of circulating BMZ antibodies in 11 of the 30 patients (36.6%). When SDAI for IgG subclass differentiation was utilized, 17 of 30 (56.6%) patients were found to have circulating anti‐BMZ antibodies. All of these 17 patients had IgG4 subclass antibodies. Thirteen patients did not have detectable IgG subclass anti‐BMZ antibody on SDAI. Sixteen of 30 patients had detectable anti‐BP‐180 or anti‐BP‐230 antibodies, while 12 (40%) did not have detectable antibody against BP antigens on ELISA.

Conclusions  IgG4 is the initial and predominant anti‐BMZ antibody subclass detected in PBP. Demonstration of linear C5‐9 at the BMZ enhances the early diagnosis of PBP. Predominance of IgG4 and the initial presence of IgG4 on skin lesions as well as the presence of only IgG4 subclass anti‐BMZ antibody suggest that IgG4 subclass antibody could be the initial immunologic event encountered in patients with PBP.
Cutaneous diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma of the leg associated with chronic lymphedema
Authors: González‐Vela M. Carmen , González‐López Marcos A. , Val‐Bernal J. Fernando , Fernández‐Llaca Héctor
Published: September 2009

Development of malignant tumors is a rare but well known complication in chronic lymphedema (CL). We report herein a cutaneous diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma of the leg associated with CL. An 89‐year‐old man presented with multiple cutaneous lesions on his right limb that showed a CL. Dermatological examination disclosed multiple violaceous, firm, slightly infiltrated nodules on the anterior aspect of the leg and the dorsum and sole of the foot. A biopsy of one nodule of the leg disclosed a diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, type of the legs. There was no evidence of lymphadenopathy on computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. A bone marrow aspiration and biopsy showed normal results. The patient was treated with local radiotherapy at a dose of 40 Gy, obtaining a highly significant, almost complete, clinical remission. A literature search identified 11 additional cases of primary cutaneous lymphoma associated with CL. An inadequate lymphatic drainage may make the lymphedematous region an immunologically vulnerable area, predisposing to neoplasia.