bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Human Plasma Proteomics Based on AniBal Quantification and Peptide-level Off-Gel Isoelectric Focussing
Authors: Marvin-Guy Laure F. , Zinger Tatiana , Wagnière Sandrine , Parisod Véronique , Affolter Michael , Kussmann Martin
Published: March 2011

Despite its enormous complexity, human plasma is still one of the most frequently used body fluids for identification and quantification of health and disease biomarkers. We have developed a new workflow for qualitative and quantitative analysis of human plasma proteins. The first step was to remove the seven most abundant plasma proteins (MARS). Moreover, in order to reduce the complexity of the sample and to increase protein and proteome coverage, Off-Gel fractionation was performed at peptide level. Our own stable isotope-based quantitative proteomics approach termed AniBAL was chosen for relative quantification of proteins between conditions. The method was developed with commercial human plasma and resulted in the identification of 85 proteins, of which 68 revealed quantitative information (Mascot database search combined with Peptide-/ProteinProphet validation). The combined methods consisting of MARS, AniBAL, Off-Gel and nano-LC-MS/MS on a Bruker HCT ion trap represent a new and efficient platform to quantify human plasma proteome differences between conditions. The method was also found technically compatible to a pair of human plasma pilot samples from the European FP6 project “DiOGenes”. Many of the identifiable/quantifiable proteins are relevant to obesity, diabetes and inflammation, which form the context of investigation within “DiOGenes”.
Metabolic Abnormalities in Abstinent Methamphetamine Dependent subjects
Authors: Sailasuta Napapon , Abulseoud Osama , Hernandez Martha , Haghani Poone , Ross Brian D
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Chronic methamphetamine use results in persistent neuropsychological deficits in abstinent methamphetamine dependent (AMD) subjects. We examined the hypothesis that elevated concentration of cerebral glutamate (Glu), an excitatory neurotransmitter and neurotoxin, occurs in human AMD.

Materials and Methods

We examined 40 subjects, 18 of whom were AMD, abstinent more than 3 weeks and 22 were age matched controls. A Structured Clinical Interview was applied to exclude AMD with comorbid depression. We used TE-Averaged technique of MRS to uniquely identify and quantify the glutamate resonance at 2.35 ppm on a 3T clinical MR scanner. Statistics, including Bonferroni correction for multiple MRS variables were applied.

Results

Glu was significantly higher in frontal white matter of AMD (+19%, P = 0.01) and N-acetylaspartate (NAA), an axonal marker, was lower (-14%, P = 0.004). No significant MRS abnormalities were detected in posterior gray matter. Significant correlations were observed between NAA and Glu ( P = 0.002 for AMD and P = 0.06 for controls in the posterior gray matter and P = 0.01 for controls and not significant for AMD in the frontal white matter).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate a significant excess of glutamate in frontal white matter of AMD subjects and offer support for the hypothesis that methamphetamine abuse may exert its long-term neuro-toxicity via glutamate.
Avoiding DWI among Bar-room Drinkers: Strategies and Predictors
Authors: Caudill Barry D. , Rogers John W. , Howard Jan , Frissell Kevin C. , Harding Wayne M.
Published: March 2011

We examined the prevalence and predictors of 11strategies to avoid driving when feeling intoxicated among 561 bar-room patrons in two medium-sized Maryland communities. Logistic regression analyses identified demographic, behavioral, and attitudinal predictors of avoidance strategies and interactions among predictors. Overall, 89% reported one or more DWI avoidance actions in the past year, and 38% reported driving intoxicated during that time. Average frequencies of avoidance behavior and intoxicated driving increased significantly as drinking level increased. However, the higher the drinking level, the smaller the ratio of avoidance actions to DWI experiences, highlighting the vulnerability of heavy drinkers who had driven intoxicated.

Using a sober driver or one who allegedly drank less than the respondent were the most popular and frequent strategies, but paying for a cab, walking, and using a bus or free cab were relatively unpopular. Higher drinking levels predicted significantly higher odds of using avoidance approaches, as did intoxicated driving. Confidence in driving safely when intoxicated was positively related to drinking level and intoxicated driving, but it tended to predict lower odds of avoidance actions. Similarly, marital status, age, gender, and location influenced the odds of avoidance behaviors. Interventions should be strategically tailored to exploit or counter drinker predilections among avoidance options.
Signal Transduction Pathways Leading to Heat Shock Transcription
Authors: Calderwood S. K. , Wang Y. , Xie X. , Khaleque M. A , Chou S. D , Murshid A. , Prince T. , Zhang Y.
Published: March 2011

Heat shock proteins (HSP) are essential for intracellular protein folding during stress and protect cells from denaturation and aggregation cascades that can lead to cell death. HSP genes are regulated at the transcriptional level by heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) that is activated by stress and binds to heat shock elements in HSP genes. The activation of HSF1 during heat shock involves conversion from an inert monomer to a DNA binding trimer through a series of intramolecular folding rearrangements. However, the trigger for HSF1 at the molecular level is unclear and hypotheses for this process include reversal of feedback inhibition of HSF1 by molecular chaperones and heat-induced binding to large non-coding RNAs. Heat shock also causes a profound modulation in cell signaling pathways that lead to protein kinase activation and phosphorylation of HSF1 at a number of regulatory serine residues. HSP genes themselves exist in an accessible chromatin conformation already bound to RNA polymerase II. The RNA polymerase II is paused on HSP promoters after transcribing a short RNA sequence proximal to the promoter. Activation by heat shock involves HSF1 binding to the promoter and release of the paused RNA polymerase II followed by further rounds of transcriptional initiation and elongation. HSF1 is thus involved in both initiation and elongation of HSP RNA transcripts. Recent studies indicate important roles for histone modifications on HSP genes during heat shock. Histone modification occurs rapidly after stress and may be involved in promoting nucleosome remodeling on HSP promoters and in the open reading frames of HSP genes. Understanding these processes may be key to evaluating mechanisms of deregulated HSP expression that plays a key role in neurodegeneration and cancer.
Isolation and Characterization of Orientia tsutsugamushi from Rodents Captured following a Scrub Typhus Outbreak at a Military Training Base, Bothong District, Chonburi Province, Central Thailand
Authors: Rodkvamtook Wuttikon , Ruang-areerate Toon , Gaywee Jariyanart , Richards Allen L. , Jeamwattanalert Pimmada , Bodhidatta Dharadhida , Sangjun Noppadon , Prasartvit Anchana , Jatisatienr Araya , Jatisatienr Chaiwat
Published: April 2011

Orientia tsutsugamushi, an obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacterium, is the causative agent of scrub typhus, a vector-borne disease transmitted by infected chiggers (trombiculid mite larvae). In 2002, an outbreak of scrub typhus occurred among Royal Thai Army troops during the annual field training at a military base in Bothong district, Chonburi province, central Thailand. This report describes the outbreak investigation including its transmission cycle. Results showed that 33.9% of 174 trained troops had scrub typhus-like signs and symptoms and 9.8% of those were positive for O. tsutsugamushi-specific antibodies by indirect fluorescence antibody assay. One hundred thirty-five rodents were captured from this training area, 43% of them had antibodies against O. tsutsugamushi. Six new O. tsutsugamushi isolates were obtained from captured rodent tissues and successfully established in cell culture. Phylogenetic studies showed that these six isolates were either unique or related to a native genotype of previously described isolates from Thailand.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Hookworm Infection in a Rural Community of Central Thailand
Authors: Jiraanankul Vittaya , Aphijirawat Wongwarit , Mungthin Mathirut , Khositnithikul Rommanee , Rangsin Ram , Traub Rebecca J. , Piyaraj Phunlerd , Naaglor Tawee , Taamasri Paanjit , Leelayoova Saovanee
Published: April 2011

A cohort study to identify incidence and risk factors of hookworm infection was conducted in a rural community, central Thailand from November 2005 to February 2007. Stool specimens were examined for hookworm eggs using wet preparation, Kato thick smear, and water-ethyl acetate sedimentation technique. The incidence rate of hookworm infection was 7.5/100 person-years. The independent risk factors for acquiring hookworm infection were barefoot walking (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 4.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2–14.5) and raising buffaloes around the house (IRR = 4.8, 95% CI = 1.9–11.8). Sequencing of internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1)-5.8S-ITS2 region of the ribosomal RNA gene were performed for identifying species of hookworm. Necator americanus was the most common hookworm identified in this population. Ancylostoma duodenale and A. ceylanicum were also detected. Our data suggest transmission of both human and animal hookworms in this community. Thus, prevention and control strategies of hookworm infection should cover both human and animal infection.
Risk Factors for African Tick-Bite Fever in Rural Central Africa
Authors: Ndip Lucy M. , Biswas Hope H. , Nfonsam Landry E. , LeBreton Matthew , Ndip Roland N. , Bissong Marie A. , Mpoudi-Ngole Emmanuel , Djoko Cyrille , Tamoufe Ubald , Prosser A. Tassy , Burke Donald S. , Wolfe Nathan D.
Published: April 2011

African tick-bite fever is an emerging infectious disease caused by the spotted fever group Rickettsia, Rickettsia africae, and is transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma. To determine the seroprevalence of exposure to R. africae and risk factors associated with infection, we conducted a cross-sectional study of persons in seven rural villages in distinct ecological habitats of Cameroon. We examined 903 plasma samples by using an indirect immunofluorescence assay for antibodies to R. africae and analyzed demographic and occupational data collected from questionnaires. Of the 903 persons tested, 243 (26.9%) had IgG/IgM/IgA reactive with R. africae. Persons from four of the seven village sites were significantly more likely to be seropositive (P < 0.05), and lowland forest sites tended to have higher seroprevalences. These results suggest that African tick-bite fever is common in adults in rural areas of Cameroon and that ecological factors may play a role in the acquisition of R. africae infection.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Chloroquine in Plasmodium vivax and the pvmdr1 Polymorphisms in the Republic of Korea Under Mass Chemoprophylaxis
Authors: Kim Young Keun , Kim Changsoo , Park Inho , Kim Hyo Youl , Choi Jun Yong , Kim June Myung
Published: April 2011

Chemoprophylaxis with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and primaquine has been used in the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army since 1997. It may facilitate the development of chloroquine (CQ)-resistant strains of Plasmodium vivax. We investigated the therapeutic efficacy of HCQ and the pvmdr1 gene polymorphisms in P. vivax. From June to September 2006, 102 soldiers with vivax malaria near the demilitarized zone in Gyeonggi-do, ROK, were enrolled in the study. We determined the status of compliance of chemoprophylaxis. In 85 patients, therapeutic efficacy was monitored 28 days after standard HCQ treatment; 66 (64.7%) of 102 malaria patients had taken all chemoprolaxis with HCQ. In all patients enrolled in the therapeutic efficacy monitoring, parasitemia had not been observed since 3 days after standard HCQ treatment. However, the ubiquitous presence of the F1076L mutation of the pvmdr1 was observed. There was no evidence that the F1076L mutation of pvmdr1 could contribute to failure of HCQ treatment.
Outbreak of Leptospirosis after a Race in the Tropical Forest of Martinique
Authors: Hochedez Patrick , Rosine Jacques , Théodose Rafaelle , Abel Sylvie , Bourhy Pascale , Picardeau Mathieu , Quénel Philippe , Cabié André
Published: April 2011

Three athletes who participated in a race in the tropical forest of the Caribbean island of Martinique were subsequently diagnosed with leptospirosis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We investigated an outbreak to evaluate possible risk factors, and to determine the appropriate public health recommendations. Of 230 athletes, we contacted 148 (64%) and 20 (13.5%) met our case definition. Five were hospitalized and none were fatal. Ten (91%) of the 11 ill athletes who were tested were confirmed by PCR or serology. Serogroup Pyrogenes was commonly found. Cutaneous cuts, reported by 14 (73.7%), was the only potential risk factor using univariate analysis. Sporting event participants in tropical areas should be made aware of specific warnings and recommendations concerning the risk of leptospirosis, especially after periods of heavy rainfall or flooding. Rapid diagnostic assays such as PCR are particularly appropriate in this setting for early diagnosis and for formulating public health recommendations.
Polymerase Chain Reaction Detection of Leishmania kDNA from the Urine of Peruvian Patients with Cutaneous and Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Veland Nicolas , Espinosa Diego , Valencia Braulio Mark , Ramos Ana Pilar , Calderon Flor , Arevalo Jorge , Low Donald E. , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , Boggild Andrea K.
Published: April 2011

We hypothesized that Leishmania kDNA may be present in urine of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Urine samples and standard diagnostic specimens were collected from patients with skin lesions. kDNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on samples from patients and 10 healthy volunteers from non-endemic areas. Eighty-six of 108 patients were diagnosed with CL and 18 (21%) had detectable Leishmania Viannia kDNA in the urine. Sensitivity and specificity were 20.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.3–29.5%) and 100%. Six of 8 patients with mucocutaneous involvement had detectable kDNA in urine versus 12 of 78 patients with isolated cutaneous disease (P < 0.001). L. (V.) braziliensis (N = 3), L. (V.) guyanensis (N = 6), and L. (V.) peruviana (N = 3) were identified from urine. No healthy volunteer or patient with an alternate diagnosis had detectable kDNA in urine. Sensitivity of urine PCR is sub-optimal for diagnosis. On the basis of these preliminary data in a small number of patients, detectable kDNA in urine may identify less localized forms of infection and inform treatment decisions.
Central Nervous System Toxicity Associated with Liposomal Amphotericin B Therapy for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Glasser Jessie S. , Murray Clinton K.
Published: April 2011

AmBisome (liposomal amphotericin B) is used for prophylaxis and treatment of fungal infections, treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, and more recently, treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Although the package insert cites neurologic toxicities in up to 20% of cases, review of the literature did not reveal any specific cases describing this side effect, particularly in a patient without comorbidities. We describe a healthy 38-year-old male treated with liposomal amphotericin B for cutaneous leishmaniasis acquired during military duties in Iraq. Shortly after completion of his treatment course, he reported memory difficulties and confusion. Further evaluation revealed no other source, and his cognitive issues were attributed to liposomal amphotericin B toxicity. These issues resolved over a few weeks, which is consistent with data about the drug's tissue penetration and metabolism available in the literature. This is a potential side effect of liposomal amphotericin B that can be observed in otherwise healthy patients.
The HadGEM2-ES implementation of CMIP5 centennial simulations
Authors: Jones C. D. , Hughes J. K. , Bellouin N. , Hardiman S. C. , Jones G. S. , Knight J. , Liddicoat S. , O'Connor F. M. , Andres R. J. , Bell C. , Boo K.-O. , Bozzo A. , Butchart N. , Cadule P. , Corbin K. D. , Doutriaux-Boucher M. , Friedlingstein P. , Gornall J. , Gray L. , Halloran P. R. , Hurtt G. , Ingram W. , Lamarque J.-F. , Law R. M. , Meinshausen M. , Osprey S. , Palin E. J. , Parsons Chini L. , Raddatz T. , Sanderson M. , Sellar A. A. , Schurer A. , Valdes P. , Wood N. , Woodward S. , Yoshioka M. , Zerroukat M.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. The scientific understanding of the Earth's climate system, including the central question of how the climate system is likely to respond to human-induced perturbations, is comprehensively captured in GCMs and Earth System Models(ESM). Diagnosing the simulated climate response, and comparing responses across different models, is crucially dependent on transparent assumptions of how the GCM/ESM has been driven – especially because the implementation can involve subjective decisions and may differ between modelling groups performing the same experiment. This paper outlines the climate forcings and setup of the Met Office Hadley Centre ESM, HadGEM2-ES for the CMIP5 set of centennial experiments. We document the prescribed greenhouse gas concentrations, aerosol precursors, stratospheric and tropospheric ozone assumptions, as well as implementation of land-use change and natural forcings for the HadGEM2-ES historical and future experiments following the Representative Concentration Pathways. In addition, we provide details of how HadGEM2-ES ensemble members were initialised from the control run and how the palaeoclimate and AMIP experiments, as well as the "emission-driven" RCP experiments were performed.
Northern Hemisphere patterns of phase coherence between solar/geomagnetic activity and NCEP/NCAR and ERA40 near-surface air temperature in period 7–8 years oscillatory modes
Authors: Paluš M. , Novotná D.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Beginning from the 1950's, Paluš and Novotná (2009) observed statistically significant phase coherence among oscillatory modes with the period of approximately 7–8 years detected in monthly time series of sunspot numbers, geomagnetic activity aa index, North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) index and near-surface air temperature from several mid-latitude European stations. Focusing on geographical distribution of the phenomenon we study Northern Hemisphere patterns of phase coherence between solar/geomagnetic activity and NCEP/NCAR and ERA40 near-surface air temperature. Both the reanalysis datasets provide consistent patterns of areas with marked phase coupling between solar/geomagnetic activity and climate variability observed in continuous monthly data, independent of the season, however, confined to the temporal scale related to the oscillatory periods about 7–8 years.
Electromagnetic signals of crust creep motion
Authors: Uvarov V. N. , Drushin G. I. , Sannikov D. V.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. A method of registration and allocation of the nearest located sources of natural electromagnetic radiation is developed. Most likely, these sourses in seismically active regions originate from lithisperes. A short description of this method is given. We have carried out a field experiment in the region with small levels of technical noise and high levels of micro-seismic activity (Kamchatka, r. Karimschyna). A number of fragments of the received data are analysed. A large variety of registered signals are shown. It is shown that the most probable source of these signals has lithospheres origin.
Present dynamics and future prognosis of a slowly surging glacier
Authors: Flowers G. E. , Roux N. , Pimentel S. , Schoof C. G.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. Glacier surges are a well-known example of an internal dynamic oscillation whose occurrence is not a direct response to the external climate forcing, but whose character (i.e. period, amplitude, mechanism) may depend on the glacier's environmental or climate setting. We examine the dynamics of a small (∼5 km2) valley glacier in Yukon, Canada, where two previous surges have been photographically documented and an unusually slow surge is currently underway. To characterize the dynamics of the present surge, and to speculate on the future of this glacier, we employ a higher-order flowband model of ice dynamics with a regularized Coulomb-friction sliding law in both diagnostic and prognostic simulations. Diagnostic (force balance) calculations capture the measured ice-surface velocity profile only when non-zero basal water pressures are prescribed over the central region of the glacier, coincident with where evidence of the surge has been identified. This leads to sliding accounting for 50–100% of the total surface motion in this region. Prognostic simulations, where the glacier geometry evolves in response to a prescribed surface mass balance, reveal a significant role played by a bedrock ridge beneath the current equilibrium line of the glacier. Ice thickening occurs above the ridge in our simulations, until the net mass balance reaches sufficiently negative values. We suggest that the bedrock ridge may contribute to the propensity for surges in this glacier by promoting the development of the reservoir area during quiescence, and may permit surges to occur under more negative balance conditions than would otherwise be possible. Collectively, these results corroborate our interpretation of the current glacier flow regime as indicative of a slow surge that has been ongoing for some time, and support a relationship between surge incidence or character and the net mass balance. Our results also highlight the importance of glacier bed topography in controlling ice dynamics, as observed in many other glacier systems.
Potential of cereals and pseudocereals for lactic acid fermentations
Authors: Kocková Monika , Valí­k Ľubomí­r
Published: April 2011

Cereals and pseudocereals play a significant role in human nutrition. They are source of specific carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, fibre and wide spectrum of vitamins and minerals. Moreover, pseudocereals have a higher content of essential amino acids, e.g. lysine and tryptophan. Cereals and pseudocereals may also contain some antinutrition factors, such as phytic acid, polyphenols, trypsin inhibitors and inhibitors of α-amylase. These are responsible for reducing of protein and carbohydrate digestibility and decreasing accessibility of minerals due to complex formation. This review assesses the applications of cereals and pseudocereals in fermentation technology including the effects of lactic acid bacteria on nutrition, sensory quality and shelf-life. This work is focusing also on fermentation process of cereal matrice leading in degradation of antinutritional factors increase of nutritional value and availability of minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. Lactic acid bacteria produce many aromatic compounds that are beneficial to organoleptic atributes of the products. However, a few questions have been not answered in experiments, yet. For eample, is there any space for evaluation of their suitability to act as carriers of probiotics? Could such the attempts lead in development some special formulae suitable for consumers with food allergies or deficiencies?
Chemical structure of european bison musculus longissimus dorsi at different stages of age
Authors: Haščí­k Peter , Müller Miroslav , Pavelková Adriana , Kačániová Miroslava , Čuboň Juraj , Benczová Emí­lia , Habánová Marta , Mihok Michal , Garlí­k Jozef
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition of musculus longissimus dorsi muscle in European bison (Bison bonasus) of the age 6, 9, 12 and 14 years. In m. longissimus dorsi water content was from 74.90 g (group until 6 years of age) until 75.70 g.100 g-1 (group until 12 years of age). Non statistically significant differences (P≥0.05) were found between groups of age. In m. longissimus dorsi the protein content was statistically significant during aging (P≥0.05) of the European bison from 21.23 (group until 12 years of age) until 22.34 g.100 g-1 (group until 14 years of age). The protein content is comparable with the values of steers and bulls of different breeds of cattle feedlot and meat buffalo. The m. longissimus dorsi fat content of European bison was represented from 1.26 g (group until 12 years of age) to 2.11 g.100 g-1 (group until 9 years of age), without statistical differences (P≥0.05) between groups of age. Fat levels are comparable with American bison fat levels and European bison meat from this perspective be regarded as high dietary, maybe. Tendency increasing of fat content in muscle with increasing age of animals was not confirmed (P≥0.05) but was confirmed that this variable indicator has the greatest potential impact nutrition. Energy value in 100 g m. longissimus dorsi was from 402.81 kJ (group until 12 years of age) to 447.07 kJ.100 g-1 (group to 9 years of age). The energy value in 100 g muscle was recorded only statistical differences (P≤0.05) in the group 9 and 12 years of age. Experiment results confirmed that the European bison meat is good article and possible supplement in the diet and the human food chain especially in states where the farm is kept in a manner respectively, as a delicacy, because it contains low representation of fat, what ultimately increases its particular dietary value, moving it from this perspective, even before the beef meat.
Persistence of L. monocytogenes versus adherence on solid surface
Authors: Koreňová Janka , Oravcová Katarí­na
Published: April 2011

Listeria monocytogenes is an important food-borne pathogen that frequently persists in food-processing environments despite rigorous sanitation procedures. Specific phenotypes that have been linked to persistence have been previously investigated but no clear association has been demonstrated. In this study we characterised four persistent L. monocytogenes strains isolated from food factories in Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark and Ireland in comparison with four non-persistent counterparts. The L. monocytogenes isolates were analysed for the ability to form biofilm during exponential/stationary growth phase at different temperature at low nutrition stress and adhesion to polystyrene at high-salinity conditions. Persistent and non-persistent strains did not significantly differ in the ability to form biofilm or to adhere to polystyrene microtitre plate.
Morphology and sensory evaluation of traditional products from different landraces of pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.)
Authors: Brindza Ján , Vietoris Vladimí­r , Kucelová Lucia , Fil Maria , Ostrovský Radovan , Gondová Eva
Published: April 2011

The goal of study was analysis of morphological characteristics and organoleptic attributes of traditional food products from the pulp of regional varieties of pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.). For experimental purposes we used a landrace from Ukraine (A) and 5 landraces from Serbia (B, C, D, E and F). For the fruit of all landraces were determined by the average weight of fetuses in the range 1025.0 g (F) - 7680.0 g (B), stem weight 3.35 g (F) - 25 g (B), pulp weight 668.15 g (F) - 6351.10 g (B), placental weight of 90.47 g (E) - 515.50 g (B), seed weight 44.55 g (F) - 277.80 g (B) and mass exocarp 124.20 g (E) - 471.70 g (B). The dry matter content of flesh were determined in the range 7.8 to 11.6 %. The total weight of the fruit pulp was determined by weight in the range of 65.19 up to 88.50 % and the proportion of seed weight in the range of 1.65 to 6.58 %. Differences between genotypes were determined by the texture attributes of dry pulp of selected landraces using an electron microscope. For the sensory evaluation by traditional technology, we drafted three food products from the pulp of each landraces and mash, roast flesh, and baked rolls (traditional name strudel). All products have been heat-treated by boiling (slurry at 100 °C) and baked at 200 °C. Organoleptic evaluation of samples, we identified significant differences between rated landrace in perceptions of color, texture, consistency, hardness, juiciness, flavor, aftertaste, swallowed, sweetness, acidity, smell and overall impression. Experimental results of morphological analysis, we evaluated the descriptive statistics and the relationship between the characters were determined by linear correlations. Sensory analysis were evaluated by scaling and ranking methods. In general, we identified the best organoleptic properties in the landraces originating from Serbia (C). The results confirmed significant differences between test landrace in morphological and organoleptic characteristics.
Eva Green Real-time PCR used to detect celery as an allergen in food
Authors: Škultéty Ondrej , Jurčáková Andrea
Published: April 2011

EvaGreen®  Real-Time PCR method has been used for celery(Apium graveolens) allergen detection. A primer designed in mannitol dehydrogenase gene region has been used for specific celery identification in sample. The results show possibility to create calibration curve using artificially adulterated samples. The increasing variability between parallel calibration of celery samples has been observed from 0.1 % to 100%. Detection limit has been set to value 0.1% in celery representing 1000 ppm. Fluorescent signal has been presented even in samples with lower percentage addition of celery but these samples have been excluded according to unspecific
Lex Talionis in Exod 21:22–25:- Its Origin and Context
Authors: Kim Yung Suk
Published: April 2011

Was the biblical lex talionis to be applied by equal retribution or in a figurative sense? What was its origin? How or for what purpose was the lex talionis practiced in ancient Israelite life? This article argues that lex talionis in Exod 21:22-25 should be understood figuratively in the ancient village life context and that the development of the lex talionis should be understood as a complex process, depending on the corresponding social, economic structure of the time. Comparative considerations between the lex talionis in Exod 21:22-25 and other relevant ANE texts are advanced.
“You Shall Not Abhor an Edomite, for He is Your Brother”: The
Tradition of Esau and the Edomite Genealogies from an Anthropological
Perspective
Authors: Manuel Tebes Juan
Published: April 2011

This article studies the genealogical relationship between
ancient Israel and Edom, as is expressed by the Hebrew Bible. It studies
especially the sociopolitical and ideological framework that gave birth to the
biblical tradition of the brotherhood of Jacob, the Israelite patriarch, and
Esau, here the alleged eponym of the Edomites. Three pertinent questions are
discussed: the Jacob-Esau saga in the biblical scholarship; the presence of
Southern Jordanian “Edomite” material culture in the Negev; and the issue of
kinship, segmentation and orality in ancient societies. It is argued that the
brotherhood tradition should be understood in the terms of the sociopolitical,
demographic, and ideological background in which it emerged: the Late Iron Age
Negev.
A Reconsideration of Manuscripts Classified as Scrolls of the Twelve Minor Prophets (XII)
Authors: Guillaume Philippe
Published: March 2011

There are substantially fewer mss. of “The Twelve” in Qumran than usually assumed. Moreover, none of the mss. transmitting the complete collection of the XII is earlier than the first century BCE. The formation of a single collection including the twelve prophetic books is later than often claimed, and the question of whether the anthology of the XII originated in Jerusalem or Alexandria remains open.
David S. Vanderhooft (ed.), In Conversation with Oded
Lipschits, The Fall and Rise of Jerusalem.
Authors: Vanderhooft David , Albertz Rainer , Cohn Eskenazi Tamara , Knoppers Gary N. , Master Daniel M. , Williamson H. G. M. , Lipschits Oded
Published: March 2011

This conversation with O. Lipschits, The Fall and Rise of
Jerusalem (Winona Lake, Ind.: Eisenbrauns, 2005) began at a session of the
“Literature and History of the Persian Period” group at the 2005 Annual Meeting
of the Society of Biblical Literature in Philadelphia. It includes an
introduction by the editor and contributions by Rainer Albertz, Tamara Cohn
Eskenazi, Daniel Master, Gary N. Knoppers, Hugh G.M. Williamson and a response
by Oded Lipschits.
A Goat to Go to Azazel
Authors: Pinker Aron
Published: March 2011

Significant evidence suggests that biblical עזאזל was
originally the homophone עזזאל “Powerful God,” whose abode on earth was in the
desert. The ritual described in Lev 16:5-26 was to the same God, potentially
being at two locations -- the Temple or the desert, and identified as יהוה and
עזזאל respectively. On the unique Day of Atonement God (as יהוה and עזזאל) was
approached at both locations. In later times, God’s abode in the Temple or
Jerusalem completely displaced God’s desert abode, relegating it to evil forces
as was the belief in Near-Eastern cultures. In this process עזזאל, or a
derivative of this name, became a satanic figure.
Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Assays
Authors: Lorenz Ulrike
Published: April 2011

Tyrosine phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of proteins play a critical role in many processes of the immune system, from early development to fully differentiated effector function. Since the opposing actions of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) and protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) determine the steady‐state level of tyrosine phosphorylation on a given protein, it is often important for mechanistic studies to determine the specific activities of PTKs and PTPs. PTPs are defined by their enzymatic activity that catalyzes the dephosphorylation of phosphotyrosine residues. This unit focuses on methods to determine the enzymatic activity of PTPs. While there are many varieties of PTP assays, the focus in this unit is on immune complex PTP assays, which do not require elaborate biochemical purifications and are commonly used to test the activities of specific PTPs in the immune system. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 93:11.7.1‐11.7.12. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Measuring Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Macrophages and Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes
Authors: Kessenbrock Kai , Brown Markus , Werb Zena
Published: April 2011

Macrophages and polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) represent an essential part of the innate immune system. These cells mediate a wide spectrum of immunological functions including bacterial defense, immune modulation, and inflammation; they are necessary for tissue homeostasis and also contribute to pathologies such as malignancy, autoimmunity, and chronic inflammation. Both macrophages and PMNs express a set of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), zinc‐dependent endopeptidases that are involved in a variety of biological functions such as the turnover of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, angiogenesis, and the regulation of inflammation. Given the link between unregulated MMP function and diseases such as chronic inflammation or cancer, it is not surprising that these enzymes have been implicated as key effectors in clinical studies. Thus, it is important to widen our knowledge about the role of these enzymes in macrophage and PMN biology. Here, we briefly discuss the general role of inflammatory cell–derived MMPs and describe methods to analyze their activity in macrophages and PMN.Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 93:14.24.1‐14.24.11. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Synthesis and Anti‐HIV‐1 Activity of New Fluoro‐HEPT Analogues: An Investigation on Fluoro versus Hydroxy Substituents
Authors: Loksha Yasser M. , Pedersen Erik B. , Loddo Roberta , La Colla Paolo
Published: April 2011

Coupling of 6‐benzyl‐5‐hydroxymethyluracil (1) with formaldehyde acetals followed by fluorination using (diethylamino)sulfur trifluoride (DAST) afforded 1‐alkenyloxymethyl and 1‐propargyloxymethyl 5‐fluoromethyl‐6‐benzyluracils 3a–c. 6‐(3,5‐Dimethylbenzyl)‐5‐ethyl‐1‐[(2‐fluoroethoxy)methyl]pyrimidine‐2,4(1H,3H)‐dione (6) was synthesized by fluorination of the corresponding hydroxy derivative 5. Sonogoshira reaction was performed on 6‐(3,5‐dimethylbenzyl)‐5‐ethyl‐1‐(4‐iodobenzyl)uracil (7) with propargyl alcohol to afford 8 which was fluorinated to give the fluoro propargyl derivative 9. Compound 7 was synthesized by N1‐alkylation of the corresponding uracil. Significant activity was found against HIV‐1 except for compounds with 5‐hydroxymethyl and 5‐fluoromethyl substituents.
Lebensdauersimulation von Betontragwerken
Authors: Ahrens Mark Alexander , Mark Peter
Published: April 2011

Es wird ein Konzept zur direkten numerischen Simulation von Tragwerken über ihre Lebensdauer vorgestellt. Es beinhaltet materiell nichtlineare Einzelberechnungen mit Hilfe der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode (FEM) über die Zeit, wobei Eingangswerte von Material, Geometrie, Einwirkungen oder Degradationsmechanismen als streuende Größen eingehen und bezüglich ihrer Relevanz überprüft werden. Zahlreiche Einzelberechnungen mit nach verbesserten Monte‐Carlo Verfahren bestimmten Eingangswerten führen zu Lebensdaueraussagen wie Restnutzungsdauern oder Schädigungsentwicklungen, die mit mittleren Werten und zu erwartender Streuung angegeben sind. Das Konzept wird an einer vorgespannten Bogenbrücke aus den 1950er Jahren angewendet. Es lässt sich auch vorausschauend nutzen, beispielsweise um Tragwerke im Entwurf für eine maximale Lebensdauer zu optimieren.

Lifetime Simulation of Concrete Structures Stochastically based time‐dependent analyses applied to a degraded arch bridge

A concept to directly simulate lifetime of engineering structures is introduced. It comprises sets of materially nonlinear structural computations using the finite element method (FEM), thereby considering stochastic scatter of input parameters from domains of geometry, loads and degradation mechanisms. Distinct parameters contributions to lifetime are checked for relevance. Multiple computation of parameter sets generated by enhanced Monte‐Carlo sampling leads to responses concerning residual structural lifetime or damage propagation. These responses are established by mean values along with expected standard deviations. The concept is adapted to simulate a degraded prestressed concrete arch bridge built in the 1950s. Additionally, it can be used in advance to optimize engineering structures right from the beginning of their planning processes to account for a maximum lifetime.
Small angle X‐ray scattering as a complementary tool for high‐throughput structural studies
Authors: Grant Thomas D. , Luft Joseph R. , Wolfley Jennifer R. , Tsuruta Hiro , Martel Anne , Montelione Gaetano T. , Snell Edward H.
Published: April 2011

Structural crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are the predominant techniques for understanding the biological world on a molecular level. Crystallography is constrained by the ability to form a crystal that diffracts well and NMR is constrained to smaller proteins. Although powerful techniques, they leave many soluble, purified structurally uncharacterized protein samples. Small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) is a solution technique that provides data on the size and multiple conformations of a sample, and can be used to reconstruct a low‐resolution molecular envelope of a macromolecule. In this study, SAXS has been used in a high‐throughput manner on a subset of 28 proteins, where structural information is available from crystallographic and/or NMR techniques. These crystallographic and NMR structures were used to validate the accuracy of molecular envelopes reconstructed from SAXS data on a statistical level, to compare and highlight complementary structural information that SAXS provides, and to leverage biological information derived by crystallographers and spectroscopists from their structures. All the ab initio molecular envelopes calculated from the SAXS data agree well with the available structural information. SAXS is a powerful albeit low‐resolution technique that can provide additional structural information in a high‐throughput and complementary manner to improve the functional interpretation of high‐resolution structures. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 95: 517–530, 2011.
Postoperative course and clinical significance of biochemical blood tests following hepatic resection
Authors: Reissfelder C , Rahbari N N , Koch M , Kofler B , Sutedja N , Elbers H , Büchler M W , Weitz J
Published: April 2011

Background

Hepatic resection continues to be associated with substantial morbidity. Although biochemical tests are important for the early diagnosis of complications, there is limited information on their postoperative changes in relation to outcome in patients with surgery-related morbidity.

Methods

A total of 835 consecutive patients underwent hepatic resection between January 2002 and January 2008. Biochemical blood tests were assessed before, and 1, 3, 5 and 7 days after surgery. Analyses were stratified according to the extent of resection (3 or fewer versus more than 3 segments).

Results

A total of 451 patients (54·0 per cent) underwent resection of three or fewer anatomical segments; resection of more than three segments was performed in 384 (46·0 per cent). Surgery-related morbidity was documented in 258 patients (30·9 per cent) and occurred more frequently in patients who had a major resection (P = 0·001). Serum bilirubin and international normalized ratio as measures of serial hepatic function differed significantly depending on the extent of resection. Furthermore, they were significantly affected in patients with complications, irrespective of the extent of resection. The extent of resection had, however, little impact on renal function and haemoglobin levels. Surgery-related morbidity caused an increase in C-reactive protein levels only after a minor resection.

Conclusion

Biochemical data may help to recognize surgery-related complications early during the postoperative course, and serve as the basis for the definition of complications after hepatic resection.
Measurement of surface‐transfer coefficient values for CO2 absorption in lime solutions in presence of surfactants
Authors: Jana Susanta Kumar , Bhaskarwar Ashok N.
Published: April 2011

A modified manometric apparatus has been used for the experimental determination of surface‐transfer coefficient values, used for the design calculations of various mass‐transfer equipments, for the absorption of carbon‐dioxide gas in saturated lime solution in presence of different types of surfactants. An analytical expression has been derived for estimation of the volume of gas absorbed, using the manometric data, for different times of absorption. The rate of gas absorption was found to remain constant initially for about 1 min and thereafter decreased with the progress of absorption time. Surface‐transfer coefficient values for gas absorption have been calculated using the experimental data of the volume of gas absorbed, without and with the addition of different concentrations of surfactants to the lime solutions. For a particular surfactant, surface‐transfer coefficient values were found to decrease with an increase in the concentration of surfactant in solution. The calculated values of the surface‐transfer coefficients for different surfactants are in close agreement with those reported in the literature.
Neural Control of Renal Function
Authors: Johns Edward J. , Kopp Ulla C. , DiBona Gerald F.
Published: April 2011

The kidney is innervated with efferent sympathetic nerve fibers that directly contact the vasculature, the renal tubules, and the juxtaglomerular granular cells. Via specific adrenoceptors, increased efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity decreases renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, increases renal tubular sodium and water reabsorption, and increases renin release. Decreased efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity produces opposite functional responses. This integrated system contributes importantly to homeostatic regulation of sodium and water balance under physiological conditions and to pathological alterations in sodium and water balance in disease. The kidney contains afferent sensory nerve fibers that are located primarily in the renal pelvic wall where they sense stretch. Stretch activation of these afferent sensory nerve fibers elicits an inhibitory renorenal reflex response wherein the contralateral kidney exhibits a compensatory natriuresis and diuresis due to diminished efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity. The renorenal reflex coordinates the excretory function of the two kidneys so as to facilitate homeostatic regulation of sodium and water balance. There is a negative feedback loop in which efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity facilitates increases in afferent renal nerve activity that in turn inhibit efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity so as to avoid excess renal sodium retention. In states of renal disease or injury, there is activation of afferent sensory nerve fibers that are excitatory, leading to increased peripheral sympathetic nerve activity, vasoconstriction, and increased arterial pressure. Proof of principle studies in essential hypertensive patients demonstrate that renal denervation produces sustained decreases in arterial pressure. © 2011 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol1:731‐767, 2011.
Effect of weak metallic contamination on silicon epitaxial layer and gate oxide integrity
Authors: Mello D. , Coccorese C. , Ferlito E. , Sciuto G. , Ricciari R. , Barbarino P. , Astuto M.
Published: April 2011

The detection of metallic contaminants in microelectronics devices is one of the main issues in production line. In fact they could diffuse rapidly into the silicon bulk and establishing energy states into the silicon energy‐band gap. The presence of trace of metals on the silicon surface can also degrade the gate oxide integrity, cause structural defect in silicon epitaxial layers or anomalies in silicon/gate oxide interface. Usually in semiconductor manufacturing superficial metallic contamination is monitored using Total X‐ray Reflection Fluorescence spectroscopy (TXRF) and performing specific electrical measurements on dedicated capacitor. In this work a weak contamination, undetected by TXRF analysis, was revealed by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) observing lattice damaging and Time of Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) detecting an anomalous Na distribution in depth profile. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Epitaxial growth and electrical characterization of germanium
Authors: Bosi M. , Attolini G. , Ferrari C. , Frigeri C. , Calicchio M. , Gombia E. , Asar T. , Boyali E. , Aydemir U. , Ozcelik S. , Kasap M.
Published: April 2011

Ge homojunctions were deposited by means of Metal Organic Vapour Phase Epitaxy (MOVPE) on Ge substrates at 550 °C and 675 °C, using AsH3 as n‐type dopant. Gen/Gep, GaAsn/InGaPn/Gen/Gep and Gen/Gep/Gep structures were prepared and studied, where n and p identify the layer or substrate doping. Vertical mesa junctions were obtained on the above structures by using conventional photolithographic and evaporation techniques. The junctions were characterized by I‐V measurements under dark and illumination conditions and by EBIC technique. It has been observed that the samples grown at lower temperature showed better rectifying I‐V characteristics and light conversion efficiency while EBIC results may suggest that a high As diffusion is present in the samples grown at higher temperature. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)