bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mini mental status examination (MMSE) in stable chronic renal failure patients on hemodialysis: The effects of hemodialysis on the MMSE score. A prospective study
Authors: DAHBOUR Said S. , WAHBEH Ayman M. , HAMDAN Mohammad Z.
Published: January 2009

Cognitive impairment is common in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The mini mental status examination is a simple screening test for dementia. The objectives of this study were to (1) study and compare the predialysis and postdialysis mini mental status examination score and 2 subscores and compare them with those of a control group and (2) determine the factors affecting these scores. This was a prospective study of 54 HD patients, which involved calculation of their predialysis (PrHDSc) and (2–4 weeks later) postdialysis (PoHDSc) scores and comparison of these with the control scores (CoSc). The mean scores for PreHDSc and PoHDSc were 26.5±2.7 and 26.4±3.3, respectively. Both were significantly lower than CoSc, 28.4±1.6 (95% CI for score difference 0.99–2.97, P<0.001). The subscores for orientation, registration, and recall (ORR) and attention (ATT) before and after HD were 14.2±1.3, 14.3±1.8, and 3.5±1.7, 3.2±1.8, respectively. Both were significantly lower than the CoSc, 15.2±1.2 and 4.2±1.1 (P=0.001 and 0.004, respectively). There were no significant differences between the PrHDSc and PoHDSc (P values of 0.87, 0.63, and 0.45, respectively). Patients' PrHDSc correlated positively with PoHDSc and dialysis efficiency measured by the urea reduction ratio and Kt/V (r=0.58, 0.4, and 0.34, respectively). Education level correlated positively with PrHDSc r=0.41 but not PoHDSc. Hemodialysis duration correlated negatively with PrHDSc r=−0.3. There was no correlation among age, chronic renal failure duration, HD frequency, weight loss, systolic or diastolic blood pressure drop, and PrHDSc or PoHDSc. Hemodialysis patients scored significantly less than the control patients. Their score was not affected by HD. This may reflect the stable cognitive function/dysfunction or the mild sensitivity of the test.
Massive aneurysmal dilatation of a depopulated ureteric hemodialysis xenograft
Authors: SMITH Matthew P. WELBERRY , SPARK James Ian , PATEL Jai V. , BORDER David J. , OSWAL Dilip , LEWINGTON Andrew J. P.
Published: January 2009

Use of depopulated bovine ureteric xenografts for hemodialysis vascular access has recently been described. Cellular components have been removed, giving a connective tissue matrix which can be neocellularized, retaining native biomechanics. A 24‐year‐old male with end‐stage renal disease from focal segmental glomerulosclerosis presented with particularly difficult vascular access. A depopulated bovine ureteric xenograft was implanted from the left subclavian artery to innominate vein. It became massively aneurysmal, requiring emergency embolization. Biopsy of the graft stained positive for α‐gal. We believe this is the first reported case of massive aneurysmal dilatation of a depopulated bovine ureteric xenograft.
Educational Anthropologies in Korea and the UK
Authors: Witteveen Guven
Published: January 2009

Fran Rothstein is contributing editor for the AAA Commission on World Anthropologies column in Anthropology News.
NSF's Law and Social Sciences Program
Authors: Harie Susan Brodie
Published: January 2009

Deborah Winslow is contributing editor of Gateway to NSF, the National Science Foundation column in Anthropology News.
Insulin Resistance and the Cardiometabolic Syndrome in HIV Infection
Authors: Bevilacqua Maurizio , Dominguez Ligia J. , Barbagallo Mario
Published: January 2009

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has dramatically improved the prognosis of HIV‐positive patients. However, long‐term adverse effects of this therapy include dyslipidemia, insulin resistance (IR), changes in body fat distribution (lipodystrophy), and cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS). IR in HIV‐positive patients does not seem to represent a significant independent risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease; nevertheless, the association with other metabolic complications (dyslipidemia, fat redistribution) and CMS may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The use of nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors is associated with the development of upper trunk and visceral fat accumulation and may cause IR. The progression of IR toward diabetes may be impeded with the choice of HAART regimens with less IR effects and encouraging patients to adhere to a healthy lifestyle. For patients with marked IR but relatively preserved fat, the use of metformin may consent the improvement of CMS and lipodystrophy, especially when combined with an appropriate exercise program. Therapy with rosiglitazone is not indicated in these patients.
Prevalence and Significance of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Children With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Krishnan Sowmya , Short Kevin R.
Published: January 2009

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a common disease of childhood with a current prevalence of almost 2 cases per 1000 adolescents, according to the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Modern insulin treatment has resulted in improved quality of life for children with this chronic disorder. However, T1D continues to carry a long‐term burden of increased microvascular and macrovascular complications and mortality risk. Compared to the nondiabetic population, patients with T1D are more likely to have ≥1 cardiovascular risk factor and often at an earlier age. Since the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors increases with age in young persons with T1D, there is a clear need for early screening and counseling to prevent their occurrence and manage long‐term health ramifications. The purpose of this review is to describe how traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as an abnormal lipid profile, hypertension, obesity, and insulin resistance contribute to the accelerated atherosclerosis seen in young persons with T1D. A summary is given of the guidelines and recommendations published for clinical care for these patients.
Connexin43 modulates neutrophil recruitment to the lung
Authors: Sarieddine Maya Z. Richani , Scheckenbach K. E. Ludwig , Foglia Bernard , Maass Karen , Garcia Irène , Kwak Brenda R. , Chanson Marc
Published: January 2009

Transmigration of neutrophils through the microvascular endothelium is a cardinal event of acute inflammation. It has been suggested that gap junctions made of connexin43 (Cx43) may serve as a conducting pathway to spread inflammatory signals within the lung capillary network. To determine whether Cx43 contributes to neutrophil transmigrationin vivo, the number of transmigrated neutrophils was monitored in lungs of Cx43 mouse models subjected to inflammation by intratracheal instillations ofPseudomonas aeruginosalipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cx43 was detected in inflamed lungs independently of neutrophil recruitment, whereas Cx43 up‐regulation was not detected in mice genetically protected from inflammation. Mice heterozygous for the Cx43 gene (gja1) showed a 56% (P< 0.01) reduction in airway neutrophil count. In contrast, increased (P< 0.05) neutrophil recruitment in response to LPS was observed in a mouse model expressing a mutant Cx43 with enhanced channel conductivity.In vitroadhesion assays showed that reduced conductivity of Cx43 channels with43Gap26, a Cx43 blocking peptide, decreased adhesion of neutrophils to endothelial cells. Finally, we found that instillation of43Gap26 in inflamed lungs reduced neutrophil transmigration by 65% (P< 0.05). These results indicate that inflammatory mediators up‐regulate alveolar Cx43 to promote neutrophil recruitment to the airspace. Cx43 may therefore represent a pharmacological target in lung diseases characterized by excessive neutrophil recruitment to the airways.
Studies on dentin grafts to bone defects in rabbit tibia and mandible; development of an experimental model
Authors: Andersson Lars , Ramzi Abbas , Joseph Bobby
Published: January 2009

Abstract –  Background and Aim:  Dentin contains bone morphogenic protein which is important in bone induction and dentin can act as a slow releasing carrier. This property may possibly be used as an alternative or supplement to bone grafting to defective areas after trauma prior to treatment with osseointegrated implants. Hence, the objective of this study was to investigate if dentin can be used as a graft in bone defects in an experimental rabbit model.

Materials and Methods:  Eight New Zealand White Rabbits were used to prepare bone cavities either in the angle of the mandible or tibia. Six of the eight tibial and six of the eight mandibular bone defects were filled with dentin blocks from human premolars which were extracted for orthodontic treatment. Two mandibular and two tibial bone cavities were used as controls and all the rabbits were sacrificed after 3 months. Radiographic and histological examinations were performed.

Results:  There was a difference in healing pattern between the mandibular and tibial defects. In the mandible, the dentin blocks were resorbed to a larger extent and more often surrounded by fibrous tissue, probably due to the fact that the dentin blocks were mobile because of the thin mandibles and muscular activity in that area. Only some dentin blocks were ankylosed with the mandibular bone. In the tibia however, all dentin blocks were fused to bone over a large area. Osseous replacement resorption was seen. In control cavities, bone formation was seen but was never complete. No signs of inflammatory changes were seen in any fused grafts.

Conclusions:  Dentin grafts have a potential to be incorporated in bone without inflammation and can be used as bone inducer and later replaced by bone. Thus, rabbit tibia served as a better model for further studies of this phenomenon when compared to the mandible.
Reattachment of rehydrated dental fragment using two techniques
Authors: Capp Claudia Inês , Roda Maria Inez , Tamaki Regina , Castanho Gisela Muassab , Camargo Maitê Andre , De Cara Antonio Alberto
Published: January 2009

Abstract –  The reattachment of dental fragments is a conservative treatment and should be considered in the restoration of anterior tooth fractures. This study compared the fracture strength of dehydrated and rehydrated tooth fragments submitted to two different bonding techniques. Materials and Methods: Sixty human central and lateral mandibular incisors were divided into six groups and sectioned 3 mm from the incisal edge, using a diamond disk. Two reattachment techniques were applied: (a) bonding, using the Single Bond adhesive system and FiltekZ250 composite resin, followed by placement of a chamfer on the fracture line that was filled with composite resin (Groups 1, 3 and 5); and (b) use of the same bonding technique after dentin removal from the tooth fragment (Groups 2, 4 and 6). The following hydration treatments were applied to the fragments before bonding: (a) 48‐h hydration (Groups 1 and 2); (b) 48‐h dehydration (Groups 3 and 4); (c) 48‐h dehydration followed by rehydration 30 min before bonding (Groups 5 and 6). The reattached teeth were mounted in acrylic resin cylinders and stored in distilled water for 24 h. The specimens were fractured at a speed of 1 mm min−1 in a universal testing machine. Results: The following mean fracture strengths (kgf) were recorded: (G1) 12.9 ± 0.6; (G2) 18.8 ± 4.8; (G3) 7.3 ± 1.5; (G4) 15.2 ± 2.4; (G5) 13.4 ± 2.2; and (G6) 17.1 ± 3.2. Analyses using two‐way anova and the Tukey test (P < 0.01) revealed significant differences between the restorative techniques and the hydration treatments. Conclusions: The bonding technique that incorporated dentin removal from the fragment before bonding showed greater fracture strength across all groups. Fragment dehydration for 48 h caused a reduction in fracture strength, which was recovered by a 30‐min rehydration.
Neurodevelopmental outcome and pulmonary morbidity two years after early versus late surfactant treatment: does it really differ?
Authors: Hentschel R , Dittrich F , Hilgendorff A , Wauer R , Westmeier M , Gortner L
Published: January 2009

Aim: To investigate whether neurodevelopmental outcome or pulmonary morbidity at age two years might be different after early versus late surfactant treatment in intubated preterm infants with severe respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).

Methods: In 185 ex‐preterm infants of 27–32 completed weeks of gestation, who were enrolled in a controlled trial of early versus late surfactant treatment (31 ± 19 min vs. 202 ± 80 min, respectively), a standardized follow up of medical history, pulmonary morbidity and neurodevelopmental outcome using the Griffiths scales were carried out.

Results: Neurobehavioural and motor development was comparable in both groups, as was medical history and actual morbidity. However, in the early treatment group a delay in the subscale ‘personal social’ of the Griffiths test and in one ‘milestone’ of motor development (rolling over from supine to prone) was noticed, and the rate of increased muscular tone was significantly higher.

Conclusion: In terms of long‐term morbidity or neurological development there is no obvious advantage of an immediate surfactant administration after intubation in preterm infants with RDS. This is in line with our results published earlier on morbidity at discharge, so improvement of gas exchange after intubation can first be awaited before surfactant is indicated.
Systems biology: experimental design
Authors: Kreutz Clemens , Timmer Jens
Published: January 2009

Experimental design has a long tradition in statistics, engineering and life sciences, dating back to the beginning of the last century when optimal designs for industrial and agricultural trials were considered. In cell biology, the use of mathematical modeling approaches raises new demands on experimental planning. A maximum informative investigation of the dynamic behavior of cellular systems is achieved by an optimal combination of stimulations and observations over time. In this minireview, the existing approaches concerning this optimization for parameter estimation and model discrimination are summarized. Furthermore, the relevant classical aspects of experimental design, such as randomization, replication and confounding, are reviewed.
Systems biology: parameter estimation for biochemical models
Authors: Ashyraliyev Maksat , Fomekong‐Nanfack Yves , Kaandorp Jaap A. , Blom Joke G.
Published: January 2009

Mathematical models of biological processes have various applications: to assist in understanding the functioning of a system, to simulate experiments before actually performing them, to study situations that cannot be dealt with experimentally, etc. Some parameters in the model can be directly obtained from experiments or from the literature. Others have to be inferred by comparing model results to experiments. In this minireview, we discuss the identifiability of models, both intrinsic to the model and taking into account the available data. Furthermore, we give an overview of the most frequently used approaches to search the parameter space.
An ecdysteroid‐inducible insulin‐like growth factor‐like peptide regulates adult development of the silkmoth Bombyx mori
Authors: Okamoto Naoki , Yamanaka Naoki , Satake Honoo , Saegusa Hironao , Kataoka Hiroshi , Mizoguchi Akira
Published: January 2009

Insulin‐like growth factors (IGFs) play essential roles in fetal and postnatal growth and development of mammals. They are secreted by a wide variety of tissues, with the liver being the major source of circulating IGFs, and regulate cell growth, differentiation and survival. IGFs share some biological activities with insulin but are secreted in distinct physiological and developmental contexts, having specific functions. Although recent analyses of invertebrate genomes have revealed the presence of multiple insulin family peptide genes in each genome, little is known about functional diversification of the gene products. Here we show that a novel insulin family peptide of the silkmoth Bombyx mori, which was purified and sequenced from the hemolymph, is more like IGFs than like insulin, in contrast to bombyxins, which are previously identified insulin‐like peptides in B. mori. Expression analysis reveals that this IGF‐like peptide is predominantly produced by the fat body, a functional equivalent of the vertebrate liver and adipocytes, and is massively released during pupa–adult development. Studies using in vitro tissue culture systems show that secretion of the peptide is stimulated by ecdysteroid and that the secreted peptide promotes the growth of adult‐specific tissues. These observations suggest that this peptide is a Bombyx counterpart of vertebrate IGFs and that functionally IGF‐like peptides may be more ubiquitous in the animal kingdom than previously thought. Our results also suggest that the known effects of ecdysteroid on insect adult development may be in part mediated by IGF‐like peptides.
Malrotation of the gut: An uncommon but important surgical condition in children and adolescents
Authors: Leung Michael W.Y. , Fan Tsz‐Wo , Chao Nicholas S.Y. , Wong Beatrice P.Y. , Chung Kwong‐Wai , Kwok Wing‐Kin , Liu Kelvin K.W.
Published: January 2009

We describe three cases of malrotation of the gut in schoolchildren and adolescents presenting with bilious vomiting and acute abdomen. Malrotation of the intestine is traditionally considered a neonatal or infantile disorder. However, rotational anomalies can also occur in late childhood or even adulthood. Intestinal rotation is usually incomplete in this older age group with late presentation. Diagnosis depends on a high index of clinical suspicion. Contrast meal and follow‐through is required to confirm the diagnosis. Surgery is indicated to correct the rotational anomaly.
Giant oesophageal schwannoma
Authors: Samarasam Inian , Chandran Sudhakar , Kurian Susy , Mathew George
Published: January 2009

Oesophageal schwannoma is an extremely rare benign tumour of the oesophagus and only about 30 cases have been reported thus far in the English literature. We report a case of oesophageal schwannoma in a 33‐year‐old woman who presented with symptoms of dysphagia and chronic cough. Most of the earlier reports on oesophageal schwannomas describe local excision of the tumour without major oesophageal resection. Here, we describe a giant oesophageal schwannoma where a major oesophageal resection was necessary for this benign condition. The patient was healthy and free of tumor recurrence 15 months after the operation.
Quantitative trait locus mapping of resistance in apple to Cydia pomonella and Lyonetia clerkella and of two selected fruit traits
Authors: Stoeckli S. , Mody K. , Gessler C. , Christen D. , Dorn S.
Published: January 2009

Apple, Malus×domestica, is the most important fruit grown within the temperate zonobiome. It is attacked by both fruit‐damaging and leaf‐damaging lepidopteran pest insects, which require regular control such as the carpophagous codling moth, Cydia pomonella, or frequent control such as the phyllophagous apple leaf miner, Lyonetia clerkella. As many environmentally friendly pest control tactics are only effective at low levels of infestation, host plant resistance is a promising future component of integrated pest management systems, but knowledge is still lacking on such genetically based approaches against lepidopteran pests. The aim of the study was to identify molecular markers linked to C. pomonella and L. clerkella resistance or susceptibility in commercial apple as well as markers linked to selected fruit traits. The number of C. pomonella‐infested fruits and the number of L. clerkella mines were quantified as measures of apple resistance or susceptibility to the studied moth species. Herbivore surveys on 160 apple genotypes, representing a segregating F1 cross of the apple cultivars ‘Fiesta’ and ‘Discovery’, were carried out during two consecutive years and at two sites in Switzerland. Broad‐sense heritability was 29.9% (C. pomonella), 18.2% (L. clerkella), 21.9% (fruit number) and 16.6% (fruit diameter). A subsequent analysis identified a quantitative trait locus (QTL) associated to C. pomonella susceptibility on the Discovery linkage group 10. The closest marker to this QTL was the random amplified polymorphic marker Z19‐350. No significant QTL was identified for resistance to L. clerkella. A putative QTL associated to fruit number was identified on Fiesta linkage group 12. The presented QTL associated with C. pomonella susceptibility and the putative QTL linked to fruit number may facilitate marker‐assisted breeding of resistant apple cultivars with cropping traits desirable for optimal fruit production.
Cryotherapy of shoot tips: a technique for pathogen eradication to produce healthy planting materials and prepare healthy plant genetic resources for cryopreservation
Authors: Wang Q.C. , Panis B. , Engelmann F. , Lambardi M. , Valkonen J.P.T.
Published: January 2009

Cryotherapy of shoot tips is a new method for pathogen eradication based on cryopreservation techniques. Cryopreservation refers to the storage of biological samples at ultra‐low temperature, usually that of liquid nitrogen (−196°C), and is considered as an ideal means for long‐term storage of plant germplasm. In cryotherapy, plant pathogens such as viruses, phytoplasmas and bacteria are eradicated from shoot tips by exposing them briefly to liquid nitrogen. Uneven distribution of viruses and obligate vasculature‐limited microbes in shoot tips allows elimination of the infected cells by injuring them with the cryo‐treatment and regeneration of healthy shoots from the surviving pathogen‐free meristematic cells. Thermotherapy followed by cryotherapy of shoot tips can be used to enhance virus eradication. Cryotherapy of shoot tips is easy to implement. It allows treatment of large numbers of samples and results in a high frequency of pathogen‐free regenerants. Difficulties related to excision and regeneration of small meristems are largely circumvented. To date, severe pathogens in banana (Musa spp.), Citrus spp., grapevine (Vitis vinifera), Prunus spp., raspberry (Rubus idaeus), potato (Solanum tuberosum) and sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) have been eradicated using cryotherapy. These pathogens include nine viruses (banana streak virus, cucumber mosaic virus, grapevine virus A, plum pox virus, potato leaf roll virus, potato virus Y, raspberry bushy dwarf virus, sweet potato feathery mottle virus and sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus), sweet potato little leaf phytoplasma and Huanglongbing bacterium causing ‘citrus greening’. Cryopreservation protocols have been developed for a wide variety of plant species, including agricultural and horticultural crops and ornamental plants, and can be used as such or adjusted for the purpose of cryotherapy.
EFFECT OF HIGH PRESSURE ON LACTOCOCCAL BACTERIOPHAGES
Authors: BOZOĞLU FARUK , AKÇELİK MUSTAFA , BAYINDIRLI ALEV
Published: January 2009

Four different host‐specific lactococcal bacteriophages were subjected to high hydrostatic pressure and heat treatments. Pressure treatments were done at room temperature at 300 and 350 MPa for 5–40 min. Complete inactivation of bacteriophages was observed starting at 350 MPa for 20‐min treatment at room temperature. The effect of heat on the bacteriophages was analyzed by heat treatment at 71.7C for predetermined lengths of time (1–5 min). Decrease in bacteriophage number was observed after 3 min of heat treatment at 71.7C. Pressure treatment at 350 MPa/5 min and heat treatment at 71.7C/3 min were both found to be effective for the inactivation of lactococcal bacteriophages. Sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis indicated that protein profiles of pressure‐treated (350 MPa, 25 min) bacteriophages were altered.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Bacteriophages are still a problem for the production of fermented dairy products, as there has not been a process to eliminate them completely from the fermentation environment. Processes such as pasteurization are not adequate to eliminate bacteriophages. However, new food preservation methods have been developed, one of which is high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) processing. HHP has potential application for the inactivation of viruses. Here, we demonstrate the application of HHP to inactivate the bacteriophages of dairy starter culture Lactococcus in comparison with heat treatment.
COMPARISON OF CYTOLETHAL DISTENDING TOXIN AND INVASION ABILITIES IN CAMPYLOBACTER JEJUNI ISOLATED FROM CLINICAL PATIENTS AND POULTRY
Authors: GILBERT CARL , HANNING IRENE , VAUGHN BRANDI , KANTA HASNA , SLAVIK MICHAEL
Published: January 2009

The cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) and ability to invade cells are known virulence factors of Campylobacter jejuni. The cdtB subunit was sequenced in isolates obtained from humans (n = 19), chickens (n = 50), and turkeys (n = 22) to determine if pathogenic C. jejuni could be detected using the cdtB gene. Most of the C. jejuni isolates (87%) were found to carry the cdtB gene with a highly conserved sequence. However, 4 human, 5 chicken, and 2 turkey isolates had mutations resulting in sequences being 30% or less homologous to the consensus sequence. Some of these mutations had minor effects on cytotoxicity and isolates still were able to kill 18–67% of HeLa cells. In this study, there was no correlation in invasion abilities and cytotoxicity. The results indicated C. jejuni may utilize more than one mechanism in causing disease and pathogenicity but is strain dependent. Also, the utility of the cdtB as an indicator of pathogenicity is doubtful.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S.A. and creates a 1.2 billion dollar annual burden. Being able to detect and distinguish pathogenic from nonpathogenic strains is important for assessing the risk to consumers of contracting campylobacteriosis. Understanding which pathogenicity factors are important in causing disease can give information to develop targets for detecting pathogenic bacteria, intervention strategies and therapeutic medicines. This work points out that the ability of C. jejuni to cause disease varies by strain and one or more mechanisms may be used in causing disease. The results of this study indicate multiple targets may be necessary for designing a molecular assay used to detect pathogenic strains of C. jejuni. In order to reduce C. jejuni on poultry products, the incidences of campylobacteriosis and consequent economic burden, detection and intervention methods need to be developed.
OCCURRENCE OF AFLATOXINS IN VARIOUS NUTS COMMERCIALIZED IN TURKEY
Authors: BASARAN PERVIN , OZCAN MELTEM
Published: January 2009

Nuts are important agricultural commodities in Turkey as they are exported and largely consumed domestically. Two hundred and seventeen samples of hazelnuts, pistachio nuts and peanuts were randomly collected from public markets, bazaars, supermarkets and retail stores in several regions of Turkey and analyzed for the incidence of aflatoxin (B1, B2, G1, G2) contamination by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The levels of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and the total aflatoxins in the majority of samples analyzed (87.09%) were so low that they were not quantifiable. Thirty‐one samples (14.28%) were found to have low levels of aflatoxins, below the Turkish National regulatory limits of 5 µg/kg for AFB1 and 10 µg/kg for total aflatoxins. However, four samples (1.84%) showed a level of contamination that exceeded the maximum tolerated levels set in the Turkish regulations. The highest value of AFB1 was 36.81 µg/kg in pistachio nuts. This article reports the data of the first survey on the presence of aflatoxins in nuts sampled in three distinct regions of Turkey.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The formation of aflatoxins depends not only on the genetic potential of mold strains but also on environmental factors, especially during post‐harvest transportation and storage. Although further national surveys must be performed on a regular base, the results of the present study indicate a reduced level of aflatoxin contamination of nut‐based products compared to earlier observations. The results conclude that implementation of stricter quality control measures, technical assistance to private sector actors and regulatory initiatives to support employment of these strategies undertaken in recent years by the National Authorities have paid back.
STRATEGIES FOR PROLONGING THE SHELF LIFE OF MINCED BEEF PATTIES
Authors: DEL NOBILE MATTEO ALESSANDRO , CONTE A. , CANNARSI M. , SINIGAGLIA M.
Published: January 2009

The study of different strategies for prolonging the shelf life of fresh minced beef patties was addressed in this work. Fresh minced beef was supplemented with thymol (THY) at levels of 250, 500 and 750 mg per kg of ground beef. Treated samples were packed using a high barrier film and stored in refrigerated conditions (4C) under ordinary atmosphere packaging and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) conditions for 16 days. The microbiological quality decay kinetic was determined by monitoring the following microorganisms: Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp., lactic acid bacteria, Brochothrix thermosphacta, coliforms and total psychrotrophic viable count. Results show that THY, working alone, was effective on coliforms and Enterobacteriaceae, whereas it does not seem to inhibit to a great extent the growth of the other microbial populations. On the other hand, an increased amount of THY, under MAP conditions, had better effects on the product quality, with a consequent prolongation of the shelf life.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Great interest is developing in food bio‐preservation, because of the ever‐increasing needs to protect consumers' health and to valorize the naturalness and safety of food products. However, very few works have been carried out on the applications of bio‐preservatives to extend the shelf life of fresh meat products. This study, therefore, was mainly initiated to evaluate the possibility of extending the shelf life of packed fresh meat patties by a combination of thymol (THY) to other extrinsic factors such as storage temperatures and modified atmosphere during packaging. Interesting results were obtained suggesting that THY can perform an efficient synergy with modified atmosphere conditions and could be advantageously utilized by the meat industry.
DEVELOPMENT OF SENSORY ATTRIBUTE POOL OF BREWED COFFEE
Authors: SEO HAN‐SEOK , LEE SEUNG‐YEON , HWANG INKYEONG
Published: January 2009

The aims of this study were twofold: first, to develop a sensory attribute pool of brewed coffee for consumers as well as a trained panel, and second, to compare the sensory attribute descriptors generated by three sources: (1) mass media, advertisements and literatures (MAL) associated with coffee sensory attributes; (2) 100 consumers; and (3) 15 trained panelists. The sensory attribute pool was obtained through the following four steps: first, collection of descriptors associated with sensory attributes of coffee; second, selection of the representative terms; third, development of the definition and reference; and fourth, verification of the developed definitions. The sensory attribute pool as qualitative profiling consisted of 74 terms with their definitions and references. The pool included 16 unique sensory attributes specially influenced by Korean culture and linguistics, as well as other ones that had been mentioned previously. In addition, the different descriptive patterns of terms were observed among descriptors generated through MAL, consumers and trained panelists. These results suggest that the expressions of perceived attributes are affected by many factors including culture, language, context and training.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The sensory attribute pool developed as qualitative profiling aimed at presentation of a wide range of sensory characteristics that could be well understood by consumers, as well as trained panelists. The sensory attribute pool of brewed coffee could be applied to not only the preliminary lexicon source of descriptive analysis and quality control, but also the materials of consumer education, marketing and product development. Also, the comparison results of descriptors generated by mass media, consumers and trained panelists could be useful for better understanding of impacts of language, culture, context and training on expressions of perceived attributes.
Constitutional Jurisdiction and the Consolidation of Democracy
Authors: NOHLEN DIETER
Published: January 2009

This lecture elaborates on the kind of relationship that exists between constitutional jurisdiction and democratic consolidation by applying the comparative method to cover Latin American political—and especially judicial—systems. The argument is that constitutional jurisdiction is influenced by the very same factors that either favor or constrain democratic consolidation and that it exerts no negative influence over democratic consolidation. However, Nohlen identifies patterns of behavior that both judges and politicians are encouraged to adopt that strengthen the judiciary, and with it democratic stability, by fostering among the citizenry a culture of constitutionality. Nohlen also hopes to show that departures from those patterns of behavior even while conditions for democratic consolidation have not been terribly adverse, can be identified in the behavior of key actors in the period preceding and throughout, the populist turn that is now affecting Ecuadorean, Venezuelan, and Bolivian politics.
Running Unopposed: Assessing the Impact of Term Limits on Competition in Florida and Maine
Authors: PRIER ERIC , WAGNER KEVIN
Published: January 2009

This research explores the implications of the adoption of term limits on elected officials in Florida. After exploring the historic assumptions and motivations behind the term‐limits movement, we test the assumption that term limits produce more competition for elective office. Using election data provided by the state of Florida, a multipronged examination is conducted to assess the consequences for legislative competition, as the implementation of term limits in the state. A comparison is also made to Maine, which was an early adopter of term limits. This research finds that competition has not increased. In fact, it has generally declined, and often sharply. The findings suggest that potential candidates, while influenced by local or national trends, wait for guaranteed open seats rather than challenge incumbents. Finally, alternative reasons for the decline in competition and the likely results of the long‐term use of term limits on the political system are explored.
Effect of Reference Foods in Repeated Acceptability Tests: Testing Familiar and Novel Foods Using 2 Acceptability Scales
Authors: El Dine A. Nasser , Olabi A.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT:  Hedonic tests are routinely used to assess the acceptance of food products. However, these single tests may not be the best approach for predicting long‐term use. The objectives of this study were, first, to check whether a difference from reference score is more sensitive to changes in hedonic scores, second, to assess whether the labeled affective scale (LAM) is more sensitive to differences than the 9‐point scale, and third, to assess the effect of repeated exposure on the hedonic scores of neophilic and neophobic panelists for familiar and novel foods. Two groups of 41 panelists were tested with either the 9‐point hedonic scale or LAM scale. Panelists received a food neophobia questionnaire and were subsequently classified to neophobic, neophilic, or neutral. Ten foods, including 5 novel and 5 familiar, were used. In each session, 5 to 6 foods were served twice/week for 4 wk. Serving frequency ranged between 1 and 8 times (1, 2, 4, 6, 8). Data analyses were performed 3 times, using either absolute acceptability scores or relative scores, that is, the difference between absolute scores and scores for either the reference (cracker, RELFAM) or a novel food (pickled‐ginger, RELNOV) served in every session. The 3 analyses (absolute, RELFAM, and RELNOV) generated similar results with respect to the number of significant differences between foods. There was no major drift in acceptability scores with sessions. A significant food effect was obtained (P < 0.05) and a significant food × neophobia (P < 0.05) was noted for 2 novel foods, pickled ginger, and lychee, whereby neophobic panelists were less accepting of them. Both scales were equally sensitive with some advantages for LAM over the 9‐point hedonic scale.
Physical and Functional Properties of Arrowroot Starch Extrudates
Authors: Jyothi A.N. , Sheriff J.T. , Sajeev M.S.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT:  Arrowroot starch, a commercially underexploited tuber starch but having potential digestive and medicinal properties, has been subjected to extrusion cooking using a single screw food extruder. Different levels of feed moisture (12%, 14%, and 16%) and extrusion temperatures (140, 150, 160, 170, 180, and 190 °C) were used for extrusion. The physical properties—bulk density, true density, porosity, and expansion ratio; functional properties such as water absorption index, water solubility index, oil absorption index, pasting, rheological, and textural properties; and in vitro enzyme digestibility of the extrudates were determined. The expansion ratio of the extrudates ranged from 3.22 to 6.09. The water absorption index (6.52 to 8.85 g gel/g dry sample), water solubility index (15.92% to 41.31%), and oil absorption index (0.50 to 1.70 g/g) were higher for the extrudates in comparison to native starch (1.81 g gel/g dry sample, 1.16% and 0.60 g/g, respectively). The rheological properties, storage modulus, and loss modulus of the gelatinized powdered extrudates were significantly lower (P < 0.05) and these behaved like solutions rather than a paste or a gel. Hardness and toughness were more for the samples extruded at higher feed moisture and lower extrusion temperature, whereas snap force and energy were higher at lower feed moisture and temperature. There was a significant decrease in the percentage digestibility of arrowroot starch (30.07% after 30 min of incubation with the enzyme) after extrusion (25.27% to 30.56%). Extrusion cooking of arrowroot starch resulted in products with very good expansion, color, and lower digestibility, which can be exploited for its potential use as a snack food.
Twenty‐one novel microsatellite DNA loci isolated from the Puget Sound white‐crowned sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys pugetensis
Authors: POESEL ANGELIKA , GIBBS H. LISLE , NELSON DOUGLAS A.
Published: January 2009

The white‐crowned sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys, has served as a model species for studies of song and reproductive physiology. Here, we describe primers for 21 novel microsatellite loci isolated from the Puget Sound subspecies, Zonotrichia leucophrys pugetensis, which will be useful for parentage and population genetic analyses. Based on genotypes from seven to 22 adult birds from one population, the average number of alleles per locus was 10.9 (four to 21 alleles) and observed heterozygosity varied from 0.50 to 1.00. All loci also amplified products in at least one of three other passerine species tested.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the green leafhopper Empoasca vitis Goethe (Homoptera)
Authors: PAPURA D. , GIRESSE X. , CHAUVIN B. , CARON H. , DELMOTTE F. , VAN HELDEN M.
Published: January 2009

Eight dinucleotide microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized within the green leafhopper Empoasca vitis (Goethe) using an enrichment cloning procedure. Primers were tested on 171 individuals collected in the southwest of France from the vine plants. The identified loci were polymorphic, with allelic diversity ranging from two to 18 alleles per locus. Observed heterozygosities were from 0.021 to 0.760. These microsatellite markers should prove to be a useful tool for estimating the population genetic structure, host‐plant specialization and migration capacity of this insect.
Eight polymorphic microsatellite markers isolated from the widespread avian louse Colpocephalum turbinatum (Phthiraptera: Amblycera: Menoponidae)
Authors: PETERS MAUREEN B. , WHITEMAN NOAH K. , HAGEN CRIS , PARKER PATRICIA G. , GLENN TRAVIS C.
Published: January 2009

We report eight novel microsatellite loci for Colpocephalum turbinatum, a parasitic louse of the endangered Galápagos hawk (Buteo galapagoensis). Two island populations of C. turbinatum (N = 30) were genotyped for each locus. We found between two and 12 alleles per locus, polymorphic information content from 0.268 to 0.798, observed heterozygosity from 0.067 to 0.667 and no linkage disequilibrium was detected between loci. These markers will be useful in understanding contemporary gene flow of C. turbinatum among islands in the Galápagos and in understanding transmission dynamics between B. galapagoensis hosts, within and between social groups. Because this louse is unusually widespread among avian host taxa, parasitizing at least 53 bird species in the Falconiformes, Strigiformes and Columbiformes, these markers are likely to be useful outside the context of the Galápagos Islands.
Microsatellite loci for the stingless bee Melipona rufiventris (Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: LOPES DENILCE MENESES , DA SILVA FILIPE OLIVEIRA , FERNANDES SALOMÃO TÂNIA MARIA , CAMPOS LÚCIO ANTÔNIO DE OLIVEIRA , TAVARES MARA GARCIA
Published: January 2009

Eight microsatellite primers were developed from ISSR (intersimple sequence repeats) markers for the stingless bee Melipona rufiventris. These primers were tested in 20 M. rufiventris workers, representing a single population from Minas Gerais state. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 5 (mean = 2.63) and the observed and expected heterozygosity values ranged from 0.00 to 0.44 (mean = 0.20) and from 0.05 to 0.68 (mean = 0.31), respectively. Several loci were also polymorphic in M. quadrifasciata, M. bicolor, M. mandacaia and Partamona helleri and should prove useful in population studies of other stingless bees.
Ophthalmic lymphoma: epidemiology and pathogenesis
Authors: Sjö Lene Dissing
Published: January 2009

With a lifetime risk of 1% and 700 new cases per year, Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is the seventh most frequent type of cancer in Denmark. The incidence of NHL has increased considerably in Western countries over the last decades; consequently, NHL is an increasing clinical problem.

Ophthalmic lymphoma, (lymphoma localized in the ocular region, i.e. eyelid, conjunctiva, lacrimal sac, lacrimal gland, orbit, or intraocularly) is relatively uncommon, accounting for 5%–10% of all extranodal lymphomas. It is, however, the most common orbital malignancy.

The purpose of this thesis was to review specimens from all Danish patients with a diagnosis of ophthalmic lymphoma during the period 1980–2005, in order to determine the distribution of lymphoma subtypes, and the incidence‐ and time trends in incidence for ophthalmic lymphoma. Furthermore, an extended analysis of the most frequent subtype, extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (MALT lymphoma), was done to analyse clinical factors and cytogenetic changes with influence on prognosis.

A total of 228 Danish patients with a biopsy‐reviewed verified diagnosis of ocular adnexal‐, orbital‐, or intraocular lymphoma were identified. We found that more than 50% of orbital‐ and ocular adnexal lymphomas were of the MALT lymphoma subtype, whereas diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) predominated intraocularly (Sjo et al. 2008a). Furthermore, lymphoma arising in the lacrimal sac was surprisingly predominantly DLBCL (Sjo et al. 2006). Incidence rates were highly dependent on patient age. There was an increase in incidence rates for the whole population from 1980 to 2005, corresponding to an annual average increase of 3.4% (Sjo et al. 2008a).

MALT lymphoma arising in the ocular region was found in 116 patients (Sjo et al. 2008b). One third of patients had a relapse or progression of disease after initial therapy and relapses were frequently found at extra‐ocular sites. Overall survival, however, was not significantly poorer for patients with relapse.

Furthermore, we found that the frequency of translocations involving the MALT1‐ and IGH‐gene loci is low in ocular region MALT lymphoma (2 of 42, 5%), but may predict increased risk of relapse (Sjo et al. 2008b).

In conclusion the incidence of ophthalmic lymphoma is increasing at a high rate in Denmark. Ophthalmic lymphoma consists primarily of MALT lymphoma. The molecular pathogenesis of MALT lymphoma arising in the ocular region rarely involves translocations in the MALT1‐ and IGH‐gene loci.
Crime and Punishment in Canada: A Statistical Test of the “Conventional Wisdom”*
Authors: Mcdonald Lynn
Published: January 2009

Trois propositions fondamentales qui traduisent les impressions populaires sur le crime et ses chatiments sont mises a l'epreuve dans une analyse regressive a l'aide des moindres carres. Voici les resultats obtenus: (a) le taux general de criminalite n'a pas augmente durant les annees 1950‐66 si on met de cote les infractions mineures; (b) durant la meme periode les jugements ne furent pas moins severes et les disparites dans les sentences ne se sont pas amenuisees; (c) 1'augmentation du taux des offenses mineures est directement associee a l'accroissement de la force policiere. On cherche a expliquer pourquoi les croyances populaires persistent meme si elles sont refutees par les faits.

Three propositions which express the conventional wisdom about crime and punishment are tested with least squares regression analysis. The results are that the over‐all crime rate has not increased between 1950 and 1966 (except for trivial infractions); sentences have not become more lenient, nor have disparities in sentencing decreased throughout the same period. Increases in the rates for the less serious offences are positively correlated with increases in the size of the police force. Reasons for the persistence of belief in the conventional wisdom in the face of contradictory evidence are offered.
TERRITORY, VILLAGE IDENTITY, AND THE MODERN ESKIMO REINDEER MANAGER
Authors: Olson Dean F.
Published: January 2009

Depuis le dCbut du xx sikcle, les Esquimaux de 1'Alaska occidental font Yelevage du renne domestiqu6. En d6pit de cette tradition bien ktablie, Ctre propriktaire d'un troupeau n'est pas encore c o n p comme une categorie professionnelle spCcialiske. L'origine territoriale des habitants, en tant que facteurtraditionnel orientant les relations sociales, continue d'Ctre le facteur pripondkrant. De la mCme manikre, la gkrance de l'entreprise d'ilevage du renne asuivi une ligne d'kvolution propre. Les produits du renne sont souvent transform& et distribuks B partir de critkres qui sont dict6s au propriktaire par ses

responsabilites communautaires.

Les planificateurs de l'Etat de l'Alaska veulent promouvoir l'industrie de 1'Clevage du renne. L'ensemble de ces facteurs converge pour placer le gCrant esquimau B l'avant‐plan, car il doit reconcilier les exigences conflictuelles deson milieu culture1 en voie de transition.

Since the turn of this century, domesticated reindeer have been raised and marketed by western Alaskan Eskimo. In spite of its rather long history, native reindeer ownership has not become a specialized occupational category. The traditional criteria defining social relations ‐ territorial origins ‐ continues to enter these relations as a determinant force. Similarly, reindeer enterprise management has evolved uniquely. Reindeer products are often processed and distributed according to criteria imposed upon the owner by his village responsibilities.

State of Alaska planners are now hoping to develop domesticated reindeer as a local resource. These forces combine to place the Eskimo manager in the spotlight, as he seeks to reconcile conflicting demands from his changing cultural environment.