bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Osterix in mechanical stress‐induced osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament cells in vitro
Authors: Zhao Yanhong , Wang Chunling , Li Shu , Song Hui , Wei Fulan , Pan Keqing , Zhu Kun , Yang Pishan , Tu Qisheng , Chen Jake
Published: May 2008

Osterix (Osx) is an osteoblast‐specific transcription factor required for the differentiation of pre‐osteoblasts into functional osteoblasts. This study sought to examine the changes of Osx expression in periodontal ligament cells (PDLC) subjected to mechanical force, and to investigate whether Osx is involved in the mechanical stress‐induced differentiation of PDLC. Human PDLC were exposed to centrifugal force for 1–12 h. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blot, and immunofluorescence assays were used to examine the mRNA and protein expression of Osx and its subcellular localization. Furthermore, PDLC were transfected with the expression vector pcDNA3.1 flag‐Osx and subjected to mechanical force for 6 h. The changes in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and in the expression of core‐binding factor alpha1 (Cbfa1), ALP, osteopontin, bone sialoprotein, osteocalcin, and collagen I were measured. After the application of mechanical force, Osx was upregulated in a time‐dependent manner at both mRNA and protein levels, and Osx protein was translocated from the cytosol into the cell nuclei. Overexpression of Osx did not affect the expression of Cbfa1, but it significantly enhanced the ALP activity and the mRNA expression of all the aforementioned osteogenic marker genes, all of which increased further under mechanical stress. These results suggest that Osx might play an important role in the mechanical stress‐induced osteogenic differentiation of PDLC and therefore be involved in alveolar bone remodeling during orthodontic therapy.
Oral health‐related behaviors predictive of failures in caries control among 11–12‐yr‐old Finnish schoolchildren
Authors: Hietasalo Pauliina , Tolvanen Mimmi , Seppä Liisa , Lahti Satu , Poutanen Raija , Niinimaa Ahti , Hausen Hannu
Published: May 2008

The aim of this study was to determine whether the baseline oral health‐related behaviors of the participants of the intervention group of a randomized clinical trial conducted in Pori, Finland, were predictive of failures in controlling caries. Three definitions of failure were considered, namely if the children developed one or more, three or more, or five or more new caries lesions, as evidenced by the change in number of decayed, missing or filled surfaces (Δ DMFS) during the follow‐up period of 3.4 yr. Children (n = 497) aged 11–12 yr, with at least one active initial caries lesion at baseline, were studied. The data were based on clinical examinations in 2001 and 2005 and on a questionnaire on oral health‐related behaviors that was administered in 2001. Associations between baseline behaviors and the measures of failure in caries control were evaluated using logistic regression analyses. Self‐reported tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day reduced the risk of failure. Children who, at baseline, reported eating candy at least once a day were more likely to experience failure at the levels of three or more and five or more new lesions.
Isolation of oral epithelial progenitors using collagen IV
Authors: Igarashi T , Shimmura S , Yoshida S , Tonogi M , Shinozaki N , Yamane G‐y
Published: May 2008

Objective:  Although oral mucosal epithelial stem cells are thought to reside in the basal layer, such cells have not yet been isolated. We isolated a population of rabbit oral epithelial progenitor cells containing putative stem cells.

Materials and methods:  Epithelial cells harvested from rabbit buccal mucosa were allowed to adhere to dishes coated with collagen IV for periods ranging from 10 min to 16 h. The properties of individual cell populations were evaluated using BrdU, Ki‐67, integrin β1, integrin α6 and keratin 13 using colony forming efficiency (CFE).

Results:  Cells that adhered to collagen IV‐coated dishes within 10 min were enriched about sixfold in terms of BrdU incorporation, Ki‐67, integrin α6 and integrin β1 were strongly expressed. Interestingly, keratin 13 was faintly expressed. The CFE of rapidly adherent cells among oral epithelial cells was significant compared with other cell populations.

Conclusions:  These results suggested that rabbit oral epithelial cells could be isolated by depending on adhesiveness to collagen IV, especially when segregated according to progenitor cell properties. Putative progenitor cells with stem cell properties were most effectively harvested within 10 min. Our separation procedure should be a useful tool with which to isolate epithelial stem cells for regenerative medicine.
Trends in childhood and adolescent obesity prevalence in Oviedo (Asturias, Spain) 1992–2006
Authors: Martín Juan José Díaz , Hernández Laura Somalo , Gonzalez Mónica García , Mendez Carmen Perillán , Rey Galán Corsino , Guerrero Serafín Málaga
Published: May 2008

Aim: To analyse obesity and overweight prevalence trend in Oviedo (Spain) during the last 14 years.

Patients and Methods: Two cross‐sectional studies were conducted in the same five public schools of the urban area of Oviedo in 1992 and 2004–06. One thousand one hundred sixty‐five children and young adults between the age of 6 and 17 years were studied in 1992 and 1312 in 2004–06. Obesity and overweight were defined according to the International Obesity Task Force cut‐off values.

Results: Body mass index (BMI) values (20.5 ± 3.6 vs. 20.1 ± 3.3 p = 0.02) and obesity prevalence (6.3% vs. 4.5% p < 0.05) were significantly higher in the 2004–06 cohort, while overweight prevalence showed a non‐significant increase. Obesity prevalence increased in both sexes in the 6–11‐year group. In adolescent females, a four‐fold increase was observed, from 0.9% in 1992 (95% CI : −0.1 to 1.9) to 3.8% in 2004–06 (95% CI : 1.8–6). A slight non‐significant decrease was observed in adolescent males (6.6% in 1992 to 5.8% in 2004–06).

Conclusion: Obesity and overweight are increasing in children and adolescents in Oviedo at a level similar to that observed in studies conducted in developed countries. This obesity epidemic is becoming an important public health issue.
Acute infectious diarrhoea in children: new insights in antisecretory treatment with racecadotril
Authors: Tormo Ramón , Polanco Isabel , Salazar‐Lindo Eduardo , Goulet Olivier
Published: May 2008

In developing countries acute infectious diarrhoea remains one of the leading causes of death among young children, especially those under 1 year of age. In contrast, in industrialized nations the death rate is very low, although the disease is an important cause of morbidity and consumes substantial healthcare costs. A variety of viral, bacterial and parasitic organisms have been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute diarrhoea. The primary objectives of treatment of acute infectious diarrhoea are correction of dehydration with oral replacement therapy (ORT) and maintenance of good nutritional status via food intake. With regards drug therapy antimicrobial agents are not usually recommended since the disease is generally self‐limiting. Racecadotril is powerful and selective enkephalinase inhibitor and has emerged as a promising drug in the antisecretory therapy of acute infectious diarrhoea in children.

Conclusion: There is encouraging evidence that treatment with racecadotril can provide clinically relevant symptomatic relief by reducing the severity and duration of diarrhoeal episodes. The drug is well tolerated and has a favourable safety profile. However, further comparative studies and cost‐effectiveness analyses are needed to define the position of the drug in the management of diarrhoeal illness in children.
Neonatal short bowel syndrome: ‘rectal feeding’ in order to stimulate intestinal growth
Authors: Mesas Burgos Carmen , Ehrén Henrik , Finkel Yigael
Published: May 2008

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is characterized by a state of malabsorption following extensive resection of the small bowel, resulting in insufficient nutritive supply requiring artificial nutrition with long‐term parenteral nutrition. Here we present an illustrative case report of a premature infant born with gastroschisis and SBS, who was treated with enteral refeeding via rectum. The infant developed during the period of rectal feeding with jejunostomy loses bowel lengthening and could be fed orally within a few months after birth. Rectal feeding with ostomy loses could stimulate bowel growth and adaptation in neonatal SBS.

Conclusion: The purpose of this report is to describe an illustrative case of short bowel syndrome due to gastroschisis and to share a novel technique of rectal feeding to stimulate bowel growth and adaptation.
Confidence intervals and p‐values in clinical decision making
Authors: Akobeng Anthony K
Published: May 2008

Clinical trials are usually performed on a sample of people drawn from the population of interest. The results of a trial are, therefore, estimates of what might happen if the treatment were to be given to the entire population of interest. Confidence intervals (CIs) provide a range of plausible values for a population parameter and give an idea about how precise the measured treatment effect is. CIs may also provide some useful information on the clinical importance of results and, like p‐values, may also be used to assess ‘statistical significance’. Although other CIs can be calculated, the 95% CI is usually reported in the medical literature. In the long run, the 95% CI of an estimate is the range within which we are 95% certain that the true population parameter will lie. Despite the usefulness of the CI approach, hypothesis testing and the generation of p‐values are common in the medical literature. The p‐value is often used to express the probability that the observed differences between study groups are due to chance. p‐values provide no information on the clinical importance of results.

Conclusion: It is good practice for authors of research articles to report CIs with their estimates instead of just p‐values as p‐values are less informative and convey no information on clinical importance.
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and child care centres (CCC)
Authors: Kiechl‐Kohlendorfer U , Moon RY
Published: May 2008

Our aim was to review the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when infants are in child care (CC), to discuss factors potentially responsible for SIDS in this setting and to describe the impact of previous information campaigns on SIDS in CC.

There is a remarkably increased risk of SIDS in CC settings. Special education focussing on a safe sleeping environment has resulted in a decrease of practices known to be associated with SIDS. However, despite a safe sleep environment SIDS prevalence remains disproportionately high.

Conclusion: Efforts must continue to ensure safe sleeping practices in CC facilities. The possibility of other explanations for the increased prevalence of SIDS in CC settings, such as changes in infant care or stress, must be considered as well.
Perceived Physiological and Orgasmic Sensations at Ejaculation in Spinal Cord Injured Men
Authors: Courtois Frédérique , Charvier Kathleen , Leriche Albert , Vézina Jean-Guy , Côté Isabelle , Raymond Denis , Jacquemin Géraldine , Fournier Christine , Bélanger Marc
Published: May 2008

Introduction

With the advances in penile vibrator stimulation (PVS), most spinal cord injured (SCI) men can self-ejaculate. Oral midodrine may further increase ejaculation success, while maintaining autonomy. Since most SCI men attempt ejaculation for sexual rather than reproductive purposes, self-ejaculation should be emphasized and sensations explored.

Aims

Explore (i) self-ejaculation success rate in SCI men; (ii) vascular parameters indicative of autonomic dysreflexia (AD) during sexual stimulation and ejaculation; and (iii) sensations associated with ejaculation.

Methods

Ejaculation was assessed on 81 SCI men with complete ASIA A (49%) and incomplete B to D lesions (51%), subdivided into tetraplegics (C2–T2), paraplegics sensitive to AD (T3–T6), paraplegics not sensitive to AD (T7–T10), paraplegics with lesions to the emission pathway (T11–L2), and paraplegics with lesions interrupting the emission-ejaculation pathways (L3–below). Natural stimulation was attempted first followed, if negative, by PVS followed, if again negative, by PVS combined with oral midodrine (5–25 mg).

Main Outcome Measures

Ejaculation success, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and perceived physiological and orgasmic sensations.

Results

Overall 91% reached ejaculation, 30% with natural stimulation, 49% with PVS and 12% with midodrine plus PVS. Midodrine savalged up to 27% depending upon the lesion. Physiological and orgasmic sensations were perceived significantly more at ejaculation than sexual stimulation. Tetraplegics did not differ from paraplegics sensitive to AD on perceived cardiovascular and muscular sensations, but perceived significantly more autonomic sensations, and generally more physiological sensations than lower lesions unsensitive to AD.

Conclusion

Most SCI men can self-ejaculate and perceive physiological and orgasmic sensations. The climactic experience of ejaculation seems related to AD, few sensations being reported when AD is not reached, pleasurable climactic sensations being reported when mild to moderate AD is reached, and unpleasant or painful sensations reported with severe AD. Sexual rehabilitation should emphasize self-ejaculation and self-exploration and consider cognitive reframing to maximize sexual perceptions.
Cutting Off the Nose to Save the Penis
Authors: Schrader Steven M. , Breitenstein Michael J. , Lowe Brian D.
Published: May 2008

Introduction

The average bicycle police officer spends 24 hours a week on his bicycle and previous studies have shown riding a bicycle with a traditional (nosed) saddle has been associated with urogenital paresthesia and sexual dysfunction.

Aim

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the no-nose bicycle saddle as an ergonomic intervention and their acceptance among male bicycle police officers.

Methods

Bicycle police officers from five U.S. metropolitan areas were recruited for this study. Officers completed: (i) the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire (IIEF); (ii) computerized pressure measurements at the points of contact on the bicycle; the handlebars, the pedals, and the saddle; (iii) one night of nocturnal Rigiscan® assessment; (iv) penile vibrotactile sensitivity threshold assessed by computerized biothesiometery. Officers selected a no-nose saddle for their bicycles and were asked to use the intervention saddle exclusively for 6 months, at which point they were retested.

Main Outcome Measures

Perineal pressure, urogenital numbness, penile vibrotactile sensitivity threshold, erectile function as measure by International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire (IIEF) and Rigiscan.

Results

After 6 months, 90 men were reassessed. Only three men had returned to a traditional saddle. The results are presented for those who used the no-nose saddle continuously for 6 months. There was a 66% reduction in saddle contact pressure in the perineal region (P < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in penis tactile sensation (P = 0.015). There was a significant improvement in erectile function assessed by IIEF (P = 0.015). There were no changes noted in the Rigiscan® measures. The number of men indicating they had not experienced urogential paresthesia while cycling for the preceding 6 months, rose from 27% to 82% using no-nose saddles.

Conclusion

(i) With few exceptions, bicycle police officers were able to effectively use no-nose saddles in their police work. (ii) Use of no-nose saddles reduced most perineal pressure. (iii) Penile health improved after 6 month using no-nose saddles as measured by biothesiometry and IIEF. There was no improvement in Rigiscan® measure after 6 months of using no nose saddles, suggesting that a longer recovery time may be needed.
Hybridization between perennial ryegrass and Italian ryegrass in naturalized Japanese populations
Authors: Tobina Hiroyuki , Yamashita Masayuki , Koizumi Atsuhiro , Fujimori Masahiro , Takamizo Tadashi , Hirata Mariko , Yamada Toshihiko , Sawada Hitoshi
Published: May 2008

Introduced Lolium species, including perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), have been widely utilized in Japan for forage, turf and soil conservation. These ryegrasses have escaped from cultivated areas and become naturalized, and this has become a serious issue in recent years. Interspecific hybrids between perennial ryegrass and Italian ryegrass have often been found in naturalized populations. It has also been suggested that hybridization between plant species might serve as a stimulus for the evolution of invasiveness. We surveyed the genetic structure of naturalized ryegrass populations in Japan using genetic markers that distinguished perennial ryegrass and Italian ryegrass. Of the 55 naturalized populations surveyed, 41 exhibited morphological traits of Italian ryegrass. DNA analysis using simple sequence repeat and chloroplast DNA markers characterized 20 of these 41 populations as Italian ryegrass, with the remaining populations as interspecific hybrid derivatives. Approximately half of the naturalized ryegrasses populations in Japan were inferred to include interspecific hybrids.
Estimation of genome size and physical mapping of ribosomal DNA in diploid and tetraploid guineagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq.)
Authors: Akiyama Yukio , Yamada‐Akiyama Hitomi , Yamanouchi Hiroaki , Takahara Manabu , Ebina Masumi , Takamizo Tadashi , Sugita Shin‐ichi , Nakagawa Hitoshi
Published: May 2008

Guineagrass (Panicum maximum Jacq.) is one of the most important tropical forage grasses due to its high productivity and good forage qualities. Although P. maximum is important forage, basic genomic information such as genome size and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) ideogram information have not been reported. In this study, the DNA contents of one diploid strain and three tetraploid cultivars of P. maximum were examined by flow cytometry and rDNA loci were physical mapped by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The DNA content of the diploid strain was determined to be approximately 500 Mbp, which is of similar size to Oryza sativa and represents a relatively small genome size when compared to other members of the plant kingdom. The tetraploid cultivars were determined to exhibit a genome size of approximately 1000 Mbp. FISH with rDNA probes was applied to diploid and tetraploid strains. The numbers of 5S rDNA loci in the diploid and the tetraploids were two and four, respectively. The number of 45S rDNA loci varied from four to eight among the tetraploids. Constructed quantitative ideograms of diploid strain by image analysis indicated that the difference in the number of 45S rDNA is dependent on the presence or absence of the locus on chromosome 2. The determined DNA content and constructed ideograms in this study are useful for future research efforts on P. maximum in areas focused on cultivar development, gene isolation of apomixis loci and mutation research.
SHELF LIFE OF FRESH NOODLES AS AFFECTED BY THE FOOD GRADE MONOLAURIN MICROEMULSION SYSTEM
Authors: FU XIAOWEI , HUANG BIN , FENG FENGQIN
Published: May 2008

Food grade monolaurin (the glycerol monoester of lauric acid) microemulsions (MMEs) based on multicomponent mixtures and the effects of MMEs on the shelf life of fresh noodles were studied. A microemulsion system consisting of monolaurin (M), surfactants (Tween 20 and Tween 80, Wenzhou Qingming Chemical Engineering Company, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China ) and cosurfactant (pentanol and dodecanol) dispersed in distilled water was used. The influence of surfactants on the phase behavior was studied in this article. Subsequently, two MMEs with large oil in water regions have demonstrated the enhanced antimicrobial activities against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium digitatum, compared to monolaurin (M) alone. In addition, the shelf life of fresh noodles prepared with monolaurin (M) alone was about 4 days, whereas MMEs extended shelf life by 10 days at least when stored at 37C.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The effect of monolaurin microemulsion (MME) as antimicrobial agents in foods, especially those neutral foods such as noodles, is obvious, and MME has demonstrated a much longer shelf life of fresh noodles than M alone. In addition, for those neutral foods other than fresh noodles, the application of MMEs can also be studied.
EFFECT OF OLIVE OIL AND GLYCEROL ON PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF WHEY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE FILMS
Authors: JAVANMARD MAJID , GOLESTAN LEILA
Published: May 2008

Olive oil was incorporated into whey protein through emulsification to produce films. Whey protein films were prepared by dispersing 10% protein in distilled water; and plasticized with different levels of glycerol (glycerol : protein [Gly : pro ] = 0.5 and 0.6). Olive oil was added at different levels (oil : pro = 0.0, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4). The emulsion films were evaluated for mechanical properties, water vapor permeability (WVP) and opacity. Increasing the levels of Gly or olive oil in the films led to decreases in modulus and tensile strength. Increasing Gly content of films at oil/pro ratios of 0.2, 0.4 led to slight increases in elongation (EL). Increasing the oil : pro ratio further resulted in a decrease in EL for all films. No significant difference in WVP and opacity was observed between films made from mixtures of various proportions of whey protein concentrate–Gly with increasing olive oil (addition) at all levels of the plasticizer.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The main advantages of using edible films are extending food shelf life, improving food quality, adding value to the edible film‐forming polymer and reducing synthetic packaging materials. Whey, obtained as a by‐product in cheese, is produced in large quantities and has excellent functional properties and could potentially be used for edible films.
MODELING THE THERMAL DEATH OF SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM IN CITRUS SYSTEMS
Authors: GABRIEL ALONZO A , BARRIOS ERNIEL B. , AZANZA MARIA PATRICIA V
Published: May 2008

A mathematical model that predicts the decimal reduction time (D72C) of Salmonella Typhimurium (ATTC 13311) as a function of citrus model system (CMS) pH (2.56–4.74), titratable acidity (TA) (0.01–2.76% citric acid) and soluble solids (SS) (4.75–16.85°Brix) was established. The D72C values of the reference strain in different CMS were fitted into a second order model. Regression analysis of variance and goodness‐of‐fit assessments showed that the model was highly significant (P < 0.0001). The linear influences of pH and SS and quadratic influences of all physicochemical properties on D72C were significant (P < 0.05). The smallest positive D72C resulted in pH, TA and SS levels of 3.00, 2.20% citric acid and 16.85°Brix, respectively. Direct and inverse relationships were established between D72C values and pH and D72C values and at >0.65% citric acid TA, respectively. Survival rates were optimum at the SS value of 11.50°Brix when pH is 3.00 and TA is 2.20% citric acid.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Despite being one of the more effective and cheaper means of food preservation, thermal processing has a limitation of being dependent on intrinsic food properties. Therefore, even similar food products, like fruit juices, but with differing physicochemical properties should be subjected to unique process schedules. As the establishment of specific processes for separate food products can be painstakingly difficult, processors often apply generic thermal processes that result in under‐ or overprocessing and negatively affect food safety and quality. Therefore, this study tried to address this gap by developing a predictive model that can estimate the 72C decimal reduction time (D72C) of Salmonella Typhimurium (ATCC 13311) from the pH, soluble solid (°Brix) and titrable acidity (% citric acid) of citrus juices. Utilization of the model to establish unique thermal processes for specific citrus juices against the pertinent target pathogen is a convenient alternative to the more traditional but rigorous process.
SOLUBILITY OF QUAIL (COTURNIX COTURNIX JAPONICA) EGG WHITE PROTEIN
Authors: OLIVEIRA DOS SANTOS DANIELA , SÉLIA DOS REIS COIMBRA JANE , DE SOUSA RITA DE CÁSSIA SUPERBI , DA SILVA CÉSAR AUGUSTO SODRÉ , BARRETO SÉRGIO LUIZ DE TOLEDO , MINIM LUIS ANTÔNIO
Published: May 2008

This work evaluated the influence of different values of pH (3.0, 4.6, 6.0, 8.0, 9.0 and 10.0) and salt concentrations (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.35 and 0.5) mol/L on the solubility and density of quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) egg white proteins for three types of salts (NaCl, Na2SO4and [NH4]2SO4). The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, using six pH values, five salt concentration levels and two repetitions. The variations in pH and salt concentration values had a significant effect on the protein solubility data. The highest solubility value (99.40 g/100 g) was obtained in the system containing NaCl (0.1 mol/L), at pH 3.0. The lowest solubility value (63.46 g/100 g) was obtained in the system containing Na2SO4 (0.5 mol/L), at pH 8.0. Under the tested conditions, the aqueous solutions of Na2SO4at 0.5 mol/L and pH 8.0 might lead to a higher protein extraction.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Determination of protein solubility data are relevant for the food industry and for academic researchers, because they are necessary (1) to define the processing conditions of foods containing different protein sources, (2) to obtain protein concentrates, (3) for the development of the extraction and purification processes of proteins with high aggregate value, such as quail egg white proteins, and (4) to use in the acquirement of other functional properties of foods.
WATER ABSORPTION CHARACTERISTICS OF APRICOT KERNELS DURING SOAKING
Authors: CELEN I.H. , KAYISOGLU B. , KAYISOGLU S.
Published: May 2008

The aim of this research was to investigate water absorption characteristics of apricot kernels using Peleg's model between temperatures of 20 and 50C. The Peleg constant K1 decreased from 5.52 × 10−2 to 1.63 × 10−2/h% for apricot kernels with increasing temperature from 20 to 50C. An inverse linear relationship was found for the soaking temperature and Peleg constant K1, while Peleg constant K2 was unaffected by the soaking temperature. The predictive capability of Peleg's equation for apricot kernels was tested, and differences between experimental and predicted moisture content values were not significant at 5% level (P < 0.05). The average activation energy (Ea) for K1 was 29.4 kJ/mol.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Technological processing of shells and kernels includes a washing, sorting, cracking and separation process. Apricot kernels are subject to major quality loss during processing. Especially the relationship between kernels and water is important during the washing process. The diffusion of moisture into the kernel during moisture addition is influenced by the water temperature. In such operations, it is desirable to predict the diffusion of moisture as a function of time and temperature.
EFFECTS OF STEAMING AND KNEADING WITH PRESTEAMING TREATMENTS ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF VARIOUS GENOTYPES OF SWEET POTATO (IPOMOEA BATATAS L.)
Authors: SHAO YI‐YUAN , HUANG YU‐CHING
Published: May 2008

Five genotypes of sweet potato available in Taiwan, including TNG66, TNG57, TYY1, WP and TNG68, were used as samples for investigating the effects of steaming and kneading with presteaming treatments on the physicochemical properties of steamed lumps and kneaded pastes. Compared to steamed lumps, kneading changed pastes with reduced hardness and adhesiveness, greater cohesiveness and similar springiness. The kneading procedure caused more obvious reduction on hardness of lumps from mealy types of sweet potato than the dry type. Kneading from 3 to 25 min had little effect on the texture of the paste . Steaming treatment decreased the Hunter L, a and b values of five genotypes of sweet potato lumps, except for the b values of WP with a high anthocyanin content. Kneading treatment had little effect on color. Hardness, cohesiveness and difficulty to swallow in sensory attributes were significantly positively correlated with each other. Moistness was significantly negatively correlated with the above attributes. The results of the study are useful for producers and manufacturers.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This work shows that steaming and kneading procedures affect the textural parameters and other physicochemical properties of steamed lumps and kneaded pastes of sweet potato. Such information is useful not only for producers but also for manufacturers to choose the optimum genotypes to make products with the desired mouthfeel or texture.
International Nonproprietary Names and Trademarks: A Public Health Perspective
Authors: Gopakumar Kappoori M. , Syam Nirmalya
Published: May 2008

International Nonproprietary Name (INN) is a system of international nomenclature for pharmaceutical substances that is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Commonly known as generic names, an INN may be used for marketing purposes by any manufacturer of a particular medicine without excluding other manufacturers of the same substance from doing the same. However, to maintain the nonproprietary nature of INNs and to ensure the future development of related INNs, it is necessary that INNs are not appropriated as trademarks. Hence, resolution 46.19 of the World Health Assembly of the WHO exhorts member states to regulate the use of INNs and discourage their use as trademarks. The Trade Marks Act of India specifically prohibits the registration of names that are deceptively similar to INNs. Nevertheless, there are reported incidents of marketing of drugs under names that are similar to INNs. The WHO has brought the same to the attention of the Drug Controller General of India. In this context, this study examines the law and policy relating to the use of INNs in different countries with specific reference to India, identifies deficiencies in the international and domestic institutions responsible for the regulation of INNs and makes some policy recommendations.
The Information and Communication Technologies and Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights: A Relationship Perspective
Authors: Rao P. M. , Borg Erik A. , Klein Joseph
Published: May 2008

Intellectual capital represents an increasingly important area in the world economy. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have played an essential role in the globalization of the economy. The protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) is an essential factor in international economic affairs. This article discusses the legal issues concerning proprietary and open software licensing and suggests alternatives to legally enforcing IPRs. Global technology networking and outsourcing have involved the use of open source software (OSS), and have implications for the enforcement of IPRs. Propriety and OSS licensing are analyzed in this article. Companies may adopt alternative strategies to the strict enforcement of IPRs. A relationship view of IPRs is presented, a perspective that adopts relationship marketing as a means of gaining profits from IPRs in the ICT sector. By establishing a relationship to customers, software producers may gain customer loyalty and commitment from users of their software and, in the long run, retain a position as a chosen supplier of software.
Analysis of Gene Expression in Parkinson's Disease: Possible Involvement of Neurotrophic Support and Axon Guidance in Dopaminergic Cell Death
Authors: Bossers Koen , Meerhoff Gideon , Balesar Rawien , Van Dongen Jeroen W. , Kruse Chris G. , Swaab Dick F. , Verhaagen Joost
Published: May 2008

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. We have studied alterations in gene expression in the substantia nigra, the caudate nucleus and putamen of four PD patients and four matched controls using custom designed Agilent microarrays. To gain insight into changes in gene expression during early stages of dopaminergic neurodegeneration, we selectively investigated the relatively spared parts of the PD substantia nigra, and correlated gene expression changes with alterations in neuronal density. We identified changes in the expression of 287 transcripts in the substantia nigra, 16 transcripts in the caudate nucleus and four transcripts in the putamen. For selected transcripts, transcriptional alterations were confirmed with qPCR on a larger set of seven PD cases and seven matched controls. We detected concerted changes in functionally connected groups of genes. In the PD substantia nigra, we observed strong evidence for a reduction in neurotrophic support and alterations in axon guidance cues. As the changes occur in relatively spared parts of the PD substantia nigra, they suggest novel disease mechanisms involving neurotrophic support and axon guidance in early stages of cellular stress events, ultimately leading to dopaminergic cell death in PD.
Isolation and characterization of 13 microsatellite markers for the viviparous surfperch Ditrema temmincki (Embiotocidae) and cross‐species amplification
Authors: TAKAGI MOTOHIRO , SAKAI KUMIKO , TANIGUCHI NOBUHIKO
Published: May 2008

Thirteen microsatellite loci were isolated from a size‐selected genomic library of the surfperch (Ditrema temmincki Bleeker). All loci displayed a high degree of length polymorphism, as observed in the total number of alleles per locus (two to 23) and a high degree of estimated heterozygosity, ranging from 0.080 to 0.893. The primers developed for D. temmincki were also tested for their ability to amplify homologous sequences in D. viride and Neoditrema ransonetii. Distinct differences were observed among three species of surfperches, in both genetic variability and the frequency distribution of the alleles.
Ten polymorphic microsatellite loci for the trematode Curtuteria australis (Echinostomatidae)
Authors: LEUNG TOMMY L. F , KING TANIA M , POULIN ROBERT , KEENEY DEVON B
Published: May 2008

Ten polymorphic loci were isolated and characterised from the intertidal New Zealand trematode Curtuteria australis. This common parasite manipulates the burrowing behaviour of its abundant bivalve host Austrovenus stutchburyi, with cascading impacts on the biodiversity of intertidal communities. Observed heterozygosities of the 10 loci ranged from 0.500 to 0.905, and three to 14 alleles were detected in 24 trematode metacercariae. These loci are currently being used to investigate the molecular ecology of this species within its intermediate hosts.
Eighteen new tetranucleotide microsatellite DNA markers for Coregonus lavaretus cloned from an alpine lake population
Authors: WINKLER KATHRIN A. , WEISS STEVEN
Published: May 2008

We developed 18 polymorphic microsatellite markers for Coregonus lavaretus from genomic libraries enriched for (GACA)n and (GATA)n repeat sequences. Emphasis was placed on developing highly polymorphic, perfect repeats. These loci were screened in 69 individuals from two alpine populations in Austria. Allelic variation was high with nine to 37 alleles per locus and expected heterozygosities ranging from 0.37 to 0.95. The high level of polymorphism revealed by these loci will be relevant for population studies in context to the evolutionary history of this species.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic tetranucleotide microsatellite loci in the pelagic perciform fish Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnaeus, 1766) from South Africa
Authors: DOS SANTOS S. M. R. , KLOPPER A. W. , OOSTHUIZEN C. J. , BLOOMER P.
Published: May 2008

Eight polymorphic microsatellite loci, containing simple tetranucleotide repeats, were isolated de novo from a Pomatomus saltatrix partial genomic library using the fast isolation by amplified fragment length polymorphism of sequences containing repeats protocol. These loci were further characterized in 100 individuals from two putative populations off the South African east coast. The loci are highly polymorphic with 18–37 alleles (on average 24 alleles/locus) and the observed heterozygosity in both populations was high (0.79). These loci will be used to assess population structuring in P. saltatrix along the southern African coast with consideration of implications for future management of this important linefish species.
Non‐traumatic enophthalmos: a review
Authors: Athanasiov Paul A. , Prabhakaran Venkatesh C. , Selva Dinesh
Published: May 2008

Enophthalmos can be defined as a relative, posterior displacement of a normal‐sized globe in relation to the bony orbital margin. Non‐traumatic enophthalmos has a wide variety of clinical presentations and may be the first manifestation of a number of local or systemic conditions. It may present with cosmetic problems such as deep superior sulcus, pseudoptosis or eyelid retraction; or functional problems such as diplopia or exposure keratopathy. There are three main pathogenic mechanisms: structural alterations in the bony orbit; orbital fat atrophy; and retraction. Evaluation of enophthalmos patients includes orbital imaging and a thorough ophthalmic and systemic examination. In this review, we discuss the presenting features of non‐traumatic enophthalmos and include a brief description of the more important causes. An approach to the clinical evaluation of these patients is also discussed together with a brief overview of the principles of management.
More Good Than Harm: Legal Orphans and the New Jersey Post‐Termination Project
Authors: Floria Judge Sallyanne
Published: May 2008

In 1997, Congress enacted the Adoption and Safe Families Act to increase the rate at which states achieve permanent placements for children in foster care. Despite the Congressional mandate, the rate of permanent placements has lagged. This article discusses the development and implementation of the Post‐Termination Project employed by the New Jersey Superior Court—Essex Vicinage to address the rate at which permanent placements are achieved. The Project, which relies upon a multi‐agency approach overseen by a single judge, has been successful at increasing the permanent placement rate in the Essex Vicinage.
Adsorption of Water on TiO2 and SnO2 Surfaces: Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Vlček Lukáš , Cummings Peter T.
Published: May 2008

The structure and thermodynamics of water adsorbed at the (110) surface of rutile (α-TiO2) and cassiterite (α-SnO2) were studied by means of molecular dynamics simulations with atomic interactions represented by a classical forcefield based on the SPC/E model of water. To investigate the effect of surface water dissociation on the adsorption of additional layers of water, two extreme cases of completely hydroxylated and nonhydroxylated surfaces were considered. Axial density distributions and adsorption Helmholtz free energies of water for different types of surfaces were compared and related to thermal gravimetric analysis data from literature. We found that the dissociation of water in the first layer considerably changes the affinity of additional water to the surface, weakening hydrogen bonding between the first and second layer and strengthening cohesion between the second and third layer. Comparison with the experimental measurements of adsorption indicates that water dissociates on cassiterite while it stays associated on rutile. The degree of dissociation in the first layer is not strongly affected by the adsorption of additional water.
Diverse developmental mutants revealed in an activation-tagged population of poplarThis article is one of a selection of papers published on the Special Issue of Poplar Research in Canada.
Authors: Harrison Edward J. , Bush Michael , Plett Jonathan M. , McPhee Daniel P. , Vitez Robin , O’Malley Brendan , Sharma Vijaya , Bosnich Whynn , Séguin Armand , MacKay John , Regan Sharon
Published: May 2008

We have produced the largest population of activation-tagged poplar trees to date, approximately 1800 independent lines, and report on phenotypes of interest that have been identified in tissue culture and greenhouse conditions. Activation tagging is an insertional mutagenesis technique that results in the dominant upregulation of an endogenous gene. A large-scale Agrobacterium -mediated transformation protocol was used to transform the pSKI074 activation-tagging vector into Populus tremula × Populus alba hybrid poplar. We have screened the first 1000 lines for developmental abnormalities and have a visible mutant frequency of 2.4%, with alterations in leaf and stem structure as well as overall stature. Most of the phenotypes represent new phenotypes that have not previously been identified in poplar and, in some cases, not in any other plant either. Molecular analysis of the T-DNA inserts of a subpopulation of mutant lines reveal both single and double T-DNA inserts with double inserts more common in lines with visible phenotypes. The broad range of developmental mutants identified in this pilot screen of the population reveals that it will be a valuable resource for gene discovery in poplar. The full value of this population will only be realized as we screen these lines for a wide range of phenotypes.
Populus trichocarpa MONOPTEROS/AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR5(ARF5) genes: comparative structure, sub-functionalization, andPopulus–ArabidopsismicrosyntenyThis article is one of a selection of papers published in the Special Issue on Poplar Research in Canada.
Authors: Johnson Lee A. , Douglas Carl J.
Published: May 2008

The genome of Populus (poplar) has been shaped by a whole genome duplication event specific to the salicoid lineage. The MONOPTEROS (MP)/AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR5 (ARF5) transcription factor plays a key role in auxin-mediated morphogenesis and vascular development in Arabidopsis , and may play a similar role in secondary xylem development in Populus. We used EST and genome sequence information to identify and characterize two duplicated Populus MP genes, PoptrMP1 and PoptrMP2. PoptrMP1 and PoptrMP2 DNA binding and other domains are highly conserved relative to Arabidopsis MP, while the glutamine-rich middle domains are divergent. The two PoptrMP genes are located on duplicated regions of linkage groups II and V. Comparative analysis of the surrounding genes in both the Populus and Arabidopsis genomes revealed a high degree of conservation of gene content and order extending over 11 genes in the immediate vicinity, but also specific changes to genomic regions surrounding each MP locus, providing insights into genome evolution. Expression studies showed that PoptrMP1 and PoptrMP2 have overlapping but distinct expression patterns, suggesting that subfunctionalization of the duplicated genes has occurred, with PoptrMP1 specialized for expression in developing secondary xylem. Transgenic Populus lines overexpressing PoptrMP1 exhibited a 2–4 fold increase in expression of a Populus AtHB8 homolog, a proposed MP target gene, confirming conservation of this regulatory module.
Species-specific single nucleotide polymorphism markers for detecting hybridization and introgression in poplarThis article is one of a selection of papers published in the Special Issue on Poplar Research in Canada.
Authors: Meirmans Patrick G. , Lamothe Manuel , Périnet Pierre , Isabel Nathalie
Published: May 2008

The increasing use of exotic and hybrid poplar species in forestry and the lack of genetic barriers between most poplar species may present a risk to the genetic integrity of native poplar species. To monitor any spontaneous hybridization and (or) introgression from exotics into native species, it is essential to have a system for the quick and reliable identification of species. We developed a set of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers that allows the distinction between five commercially important species of poplar ( Populus balsamifera L., Populus deltoides Marsh., Populus trichocarpa Toor. ex Gray, Populus nigra L., and Populus maximowiczii Henry) and their hybrids. Six genomic regions spanning 6.1 kb were screened at the DNA sequence level to search for discriminating SNPs among the five species. A total of 245 SNPs and indels were found, 86 of which were species specific. A subset of 12 species-specific SNPs was chosen for use with high-throughput SNPstream technology. In addition, 32 species-specific SNPs and indels were found that can be assayed using restriction enzymes. Application of the developed markers to a set of hybrid clones showed that the markers are not only useful for monitoring introgression but also for the verification of breeding material.
Effects of Corylus cornuta stem density on root suckering and rooting depth of Populus tremuloidesThis article is one of a selection of papers published in the Special Issue on Poplar Research in Canada.
Authors: Mundell Theresa L. , Landhäusser Simon M. , Lieffers Victor J.
Published: May 2008

Trembling aspen ( Populus tremuloides Michx.) is capable of regenerating vegetatively through the formation of adventitious shoots (suckers) from roots. This field study investigated how sucker regeneration following harvest of aspen is affected by understories of beaked hazel ( Corylus cornuta Marsh.). Aspen stands with a high density of understory hazel (>45 000 stems per hectare (sph)) or a low density (<5000 sph) were cut in the fall. After one growing season, aspen sucker density and growth were assessed. Soil trenches were excavated to examine the root density and rooting depth of both aspen and hazel. Aspen sucker regeneration was 68 200 sph in areas with low hazel density and 43 600 sph in areas with high hazel density; the cross-sectional surface area of aspen roots in shallow soil layers (0–10 cm) was significantly lower under high densities of hazel. As aspen usually produces most of its root suckers from shallow roots, the reduction of roots in the upper 10 cm of the soil was the likely cause of lower sucker densities. Height growth of the suckers was not influenced by pre-harvest hazel density, possibly owing to high light transmission as a result of the reduced leaf area of the hazel after the harvest.
The Behavior of Piles Driven in Clay. I. An Investigation of Soil Stress and Pore Water Pressure as Related to Soil Properties
Authors: Clark J. I. , Meyerhof G. G.
Published: May 2008

This paper outlines research on large model piles and some full-scale piles driven into insensitive clay to study the phenomena of load transfer and the effect of pile driving on the soil. It is divided into two parts. Part I deals with the stress field set up by driving a large model pile into an instrumented clay bed and the stresses measured for some full-scale timber piles. Part II presents an evaluation of the load carrying capacity of the model pile and compares the results with full-scale pile load tests. The soil properties are evaluated in terms of effective stress for an estimate of the bearing capacity of the piles.The measured soil displacements near the shaft and base agree well with plastic theory, while the observed magnitude of the pore pressures in the clay due to driving are smaller and the rate of pore pressure dissipation is greater than expected theoretically.The magnitude of the total and effective radial stresses surrounding the pile is mainly related to the stress changes in the soil due to placing the pile and subsequent stress changes are relatively small. On the other hand, the tangential and vertical stresses vary appreciably with time and the latter stresses depart considerably from estimates based on elastic theory, due to locked-in-soil stresses.An approximate theory is presented to estimate the average effective radial stress on the pile shaft in connection with the ultimate shaft capacity. This proposed approach is supported by observations in some clays of low sensitivity, but requires further research in other type of clays.