bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific Targeting of theArabidopsisResistance Protein RPW8.2 to the Interfacial Membrane Encasing the Fungal Haustorium Renders Broad-Spectrum Resistance to Powdery Mildew
Authors: Wang Wenming , Wen Yingqiang , Berkey Robert , Xiao Shunyuan
Published: September 2009

Powdery mildew fungal pathogens penetrate the plant cell wall and develop a feeding structure called the haustorium to steal photosynthetate from the host cell. Here, we report that the broad-spectrum mildew resistance protein RPW8.2 from Arabidopsis thaliana is induced and specifically targeted to the extrahaustorial membrane (EHM), an enigmatic interfacial membrane believed to be derived from the host cell plasma membrane. There, RPW8.2 activates a salicylic acid (SA) signaling-dependent defense strategy that concomitantly enhances the encasement of the haustorial complex and onsite accumulation of H2O2, presumably for constraining the haustorium while reducing oxidative damage to the host cell. Targeting of RPW8.2 to the EHM, however, is SA independent and requires function of the actin cytoskeleton. Natural mutations that impair either defense activation or EHM targeting of RPW8.2 compromise the efficacy of RPW8.2-mediated resistance. Thus, the interception of haustoria is key for RPW8-mediated broad-spectrum mildew resistance.
bearded-earEncodes a MADS Box Transcription Factor Critical for Maize Floral Development
Authors: Thompson Beth E. , Bartling Linnea , Whipple Clint , Hall Darren H. , Sakai Hajime , Schmidt Robert , Hake Sarah
Published: September 2009

Although many genes that regulate floral development have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana, relatively few are known in the grasses. In normal maize (Zea mays), each spikelet produces an upper and lower floral meristem, which initiate floral organs in a defined phyllotaxy before being consumed in the production of an ovule. The bearded-ear (bde) mutation affects floral development differently in the upper and lower meristem. The upper floral meristem initiates extra floral organs that are often mosaic or fused, while the lower floral meristem initiates additional floral meristems. We cloned bde by positional cloning and found that it encodes zea agamous3 (zag3), a MADS box transcription factor in the conserved AGAMOUS-LIKE6 clade. Mutants in the maize homolog of AGAMOUS, zag1, have a subset of bde floral defects. bde zag1 double mutants have a severe ear phenotype, not observed in either single mutant, in which floral meristems are converted to branch-like meristems, indicating that bde and zag1 redundantly promote floral meristem identity. In addition, BDE and ZAG1 physically interact. We propose a model in which BDE functions in at least three distinct complexes to regulate floral development in the maize ear.
Evolution ofAGL6-likeMADS Box Genes in Grasses (Poaceae): Ovule Expression Is Ancient and Palea Expression Is New
Authors: Reinheimer Renata , Kellogg Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2009

AGAMOUS-like6 (AGL6) genes encode MIKC-type MADS box transcription factors and are closely related to SEPALLATA and AP1/FUL-like genes. Here, we focus on the molecular evolution and expression of the AGL6-like genes in grasses. We have found that AGL6-like genes are expressed in ovules, lodicules (second whorl floral organs), paleas (putative first whorl floral organs), and floral meristems. Each of these expression domains was acquired at a different time in evolution, indicating that each represents a distinct function of the gene product and that the AGL6-like genes are pleiotropic. Expression in the inner integument of the ovule appears to be an ancient expression pattern corresponding to the expression of the gene in the megasporangium and integument in gymnosperms. Expression in floral meristems appears to have been acquired in the angiosperms and expression in second whorl organs in monocots. Early in grass evolution, AGL6-like orthologs acquired a new expression domain in the palea. Stamen expression is variable. Most grasses have a single AGL6-like gene (orthologous to the rice [Oryza sativa] gene MADS6). However, rice and other species of Oryza have a second copy (orthologous to rice MADS17) that appears to be the result of an ancient duplication.
Measuring irritable bowel syndrome patient‐reported outcomes with an abdominal pain numeric rating scale
Authors: SPIEGEL B. , BOLUS R. , HARRIS L. A. , LUCAK S. , NALIBOFF B. , ESRAILIAN E. , CHEY W. D. , LEMBO A. , KARSAN H. , TILLISCH K. , TALLEY J. , MAYER E. , CHANG L.
Published: September 2009

Background  Controversy exists on how to measure patient‐reported outcomes in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) clinical trials effectively. Pain numeric rating scales (NRS) are widely used in the non‐IBS pain literature. The Food and Drug Administration has proposed using the NRS in IBS.

Aim  To test the psychometrics of an abdominal pain NRS in IBS.

Methods  We analysed data from a longitudinal cohort of Rome III IBS subjects. At entry, subjects completed a 10‐point NRS, bowel symptoms, IBS severity measurements (IBS‐SSS, FBDSI), health‐related quality of life indices (IBS‐QOL, EQ5D), and the Worker Productivity Activity Index (WPAI). We repeated assessments at 3 months along with a response scale to calculate the minimal clinically important difference.

Results  There were 277 subjects (82% women; age = 42 ± 15) at baseline and 90 at 3 months. The NRS correlated cross‐sectionally with IBS‐SSS (r = 0.60; P < 0.0011), FBDSI (r = 0.49; P < 0.0001), IBS‐QOL (r = 0.43; P < 0.0001), EQ5D (r = 0.48; P < 0.0001), presenteeism (r = 0.39; P < 0.0001), absenteeism (r = 0.17; P = 0.04) and distension (r = 0.46; P < 0.0001), but not stool frequency or form. The minimal clinically important difference was 2.2 points, correlating with a 29.5% reduction over time.

Conclusions  An abdominal pain NRS exhibits excellent validity and can be readily interpreted with a minimal clinically important difference in patients with IBS. These data support the use of the NRS in IBS clinical trials.
Changes in carbon and nitrogen of Chernozem soil along a cultivation chronosequence in a semi‐arid grassland
Authors: Wang Q. , Zhang L. , Li L. , Bai Y. , Cao J. , Han X.
Published: September 2009

Changes in the carbon (C) stock of grassland soil in response to land use change will increase atmospheric CO2, and consequently affect the climate. In this study we investigated the effects of land use change on soil organic C (SOC) and nitrogen (N) along a cultivation chronosequence in the Xilin River Basin, China. The chronosequence consisted of an undisturbed meadow steppe, a 28‐year‐old cropland and a 42‐year‐old cropland (abbreviated as Steppe, Crop‐28 Y and Crop‐42Y, respectively). Crop‐28Y and Crop‐42Y were originally created on the meadow steppe in 1972 and 1958, respectively. The soil samples, in ten replications from three depth increments (0–10, 10–20 and 20–30 cm), were collected, respectively, in the two cropland fields and the adjacent undisturbed steppe. Bulk density, SOC, total N and 2 m KCl‐extractable mineral N including ammonium and nitrate were measured. Our results showed that the greatest changes in the measurements occurred in the 0–10 cm soil depth. The SOC stock in the upper 30‐cm soil decreased by 9.83 Mg C ha−1 in Crop‐28Y and 21.87 Mg C ha−1 in Crop‐42Y, which indicated that approximately 10 and 25% of the original SOC of the steppe had been emitted over 28 and 42 years, respectively. Similarly, the total N lost was 0.66 Mg N ha−1 and 1.18 Mg N ha−1, corresponding to approximately 9% and 16%, respectively, of the original N at the same depth and cropping duration as those noted for SOC. The mineral N concentration in the soil of both the two croplands was greater than that in the steppe soil, and the ammonium‐N was less affected by cultivation than the nitrate‐N. The extent of these changes depended on soil depth and cropland age. These effects of cultivation were much greater in the top 10 cm of soil than in deeper soil, and also greater in Crop‐42Y than in Crop‐28Y. The findings are significant for assessing the C and N sequestration potential of the land use changes associated with grassland conversion, and suggest that improved management practices are needed to sequester SOC and total N in the cropped soil in a semi‐arid grassland.
Parent’s involvement in decisions when their child is admitted to hospital with suspected shunt malfunction: study protocol
Authors: Smith Joanna , Cheater Francine , Chatwin John , Bekker Hilary
Published: September 2009

Title.  Parent’s involvement in decisions when their child is admitted to hospital with suspected shunt malfunction: study protocol.

Aim.  This paper outlines the protocol for a study aimed at exploring parent’s involvement during professional–parent interactions and decisions about their child’s care in the context of suspected shunt malfunction.

Background.  Hydrocephalus is a long‐term condition treated primarily by the insertion of a shunt that diverts fluid from the brain to another body compartment. Shunts frequently malfunction, and parents of children with shunted hydrocephalus are responsible for recognizing and responding to shunt complications. Parents feel that interactions with professionals when they seek healthcare advice for their child do always not encourage active participation in care decisions.

Methods.  The study design is based on qualitative methodologies: a combination of conversation analysis applied to consultation recordings of professional–parent interactions when a child is admitted to hospital with suspected shunt malfunction, and semi‐structured follow‐up interviews with the same participants within 2 weeks of the consultation.

Participants.  This is a prospective study and participants will be purposefully selected. Parents of children who have been admitted to hospital with suspected shunt malfunction and healthcare professionals responsible for the initial assessment of the child will be invited to participate.

Discussion.  The study will identify how decisions about a child’s care are negotiated between parents and healthcare professionals at key stages of the care pathway. In addition, examining interactions between healthcare professionals and parents may identify approaches that support or hinder parents in contributing to the decision‐making processes when they seek advice from healthcare professionals.
The Professionalism and Environmental Factors in the Workplace Questionnaire®: development and psychometric evaluation
Authors: Baumann Andrea , Kolotylo Camille
Published: September 2009

Title.  The Professionalism and Environmental Factors in the Workplace Questionnaire®: development and psychometric evaluation.

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to describe the development and testing of a questionnaire intended to determine key professionalism attributes and key environmental attributes that influence the professionalism of nurses in their practice environments.

Background.  Rapid changes in the healthcare sector and human resource shortages have had an impact on the stability of global work environments, making maintaining professionalism a challenge. The literature consists of descriptive research, opinion and theoretical papers.

Method.  The Professionalism and Environmental Factors in the Workplace Questionnaire® was developed and tested from 2005 to 2007 in three phases: item generation, pretesting and pilot testing. Convenience sampling was used to obtain representative samples of the target population in the pretest and pilot test. Mailed survey methodology was used in the pretest and pilot test. Sample sizes for the pretest and pilot test were 46 and 848 respectively.

Results.  Psychometric testing indicated preliminary instrument validity and reliability. Factor analysis resulted in stable factors that mirrored the conceptual basis of the questionnaire. The results summarize nurses’ ratings of professionalism and environmental attributes that play a role in their work lives.

Conclusion.  The questionnaire helps nurses reflect on their practice and provides a starting point for discussion, planning and implementation of methods to support professionalism in practice and healthy work environments. It is internationally relevant because professionalism is a construct that transcends culture. Confirmatory factor analysis is needed to validate the results of this study. Testing with populations in different settings and additional validity and reliability testing will strengthen the questionnaire.
The effects of fixed orthodontic appliances on saliva flow rate and saliva electrolyte concentrations
Authors: LI Y. , HU B. , LIU Y. , DING G. , ZHANG C. , WANG S.
Published: September 2009

Summary  Fixed appliance orthodontic treatment may affect local saliva secretion; however, there is limited information available about this respect in the literature. Understanding how fixed appliance orthodontic treatment affects local saliva secretion could provide insight on possible contributions of salivary changes towards decalcification. In this study, we found that during the first month of fixed orthodontic treatment, the whole saliva flow rate, upper labial saliva flow rate and concentrations of whole saliva sodium and chlorine increased significantly, while the concentrations of calcium, phosphorous and potassium in whole saliva decreased. However, all these were in normal levels after 3 months. This study demonstrated that saliva flow rate was increased and saliva electrolytes were changed at early stage when placing fixed orthodontic appliances, which was considered due to increased mechanosensation.
Challenges in diagnosing acute pancreatitis in renal transplant patients
Authors: Taylor Kate , Sinha Smeeta , Cowie Alistair , Babbs Christopher , Reeve Roy , Kalra Philip A.
Published: September 2009

Abstract:  Acute pancreatitis is a recognized occurrence in patients with end‐stage renal disease, those on dialysis and those who have undergone renal transplantation. The incidence is significantly increased in comparison to the general population and carries significant mortality. We report two cases of acute pancreatitis that occurred in stable renal transplant recipients, and in which there was diagnostic difficulty. The etiology of the acute pancreatitis is not always identifiable in these patients. Classical symptoms and laboratory findings are often absent, which may cause diagnostic difficulty. Our experience suggests that in immunosuppressed patients with unexplained abdominal pain or abnormal liver function tests, acute pancreatitis should be considered at an early stage in order to initiate appropriate treatment and therefore minimize mortality and morbidity.
The physical environment as a fall risk factor in older adults: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of cross‐sectional and cohort studies
Authors: Letts Lori , Moreland Julie , Richardson Julie , Coman Liliana , Edwards Mary , Ginis Kathleen Martin , Wilkins Seanne , Wishart Laurie
Published: September 2009

Background/aim:  Evidence that the physical environment is a fall risk factor in older adults is inconsistent. The study evaluated and summarised evidence of the physical environment as a fall risk factor.

Methods:  Eight databases (1985–2006) were searched. Investigators evaluated quality of two categories (cross‐sectional and cohort) of studies, extracted and analysed data.

Results:  Cross‐sectional: falls occur in a variety of environments; gait aids were present in approximately 30% of falls.

Cohort:  Home hazards increased fall risk (odds ratio (OR) = 1.15; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.97–1.36) although not significantly. When only the high quality studies were included, the OR = 1.38 (95% CI: 1.03–1.87), which was statistically significant. Use of mobility aids significantly increased fall risk in community (OR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.59–2.71) and institutional (OR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.66–1.89) settings.

Conclusions:  Home hazards appear to be a significant risk factor in older community‐dwelling adults, although they may present the greatest risk for persons who fall repeatedly. Future research should examine relationships between mobility impairments, use of mobility aids and falls.
Variability in incubator humidity practices in the management of preterm infants
Authors: Sinclair Lynn , Crisp Jackie , Sinn John
Published: September 2009

Aim:  To determine current practice and opinion in relation to incubator humidity use in the management of preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICU's) within the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN).

Methods:  A survey was conducted in 26 NICU's in the ANZNN. A senior clinical nurse in each perinatal centre participated in a telephone survey that focused on local humidification practices and on the clinicians' views and experiences of humidity use.

Results:  All centres routinely used supplemental humidity in the management of preterm infants. The majority of centres (77%) had written protocols to guide practice. Eighty‐eight per cent commenced humidity at a high level (relative humidity ≥ 80%). There was wide practice variation in the gestational age parameters determining humidification use (all gestational ages up to 37 weeks), duration of use (3–77 days), timing of initiation (admission to 72 h after birth) and weaning practices. Perceived benefits of humidification included improved thermoregulation, skin integrity, and fluid and electrolyte balance and reduced transepidermal water loss. Perceived risks included sepsis and hyperthermia.

Conclusions:  Our study confirmed that incubator humidity is used routinely in the management of preterm infants in the ANZNN. Wide variation in humidification practices across NICUs reflects the paucity of research evidence. Perceived benefits and risks of humidity use were consistent with available literature. To optimise the care environment and provide an evidence base for practice further research is warranted.
Accounting, Intangible Assets, Stock Market Activity, and Measurement and Disclosure Policy—Views From the U.K.
Authors: DEDMAN ELISABETH , MOUSELLI SULAIMAN , SHEN YUN , STARK ANDREW W.
Published: September 2009

This paper considers the impact of U.K. practices with respect to the measurement and disclosure of intangible assets, focusing on R&D activities. We first update prior U.K. work relating R&D activities to market prices. Second, given the clearly identified role of disclosure outside of the financial statements in helping market participants value R&D expenditures, we consider whether market forces are generally sufficient to ensure adequate disclosures with respect to intangibles by considering the cases of two biotechnology firms involved in the issuance of misleading disclosures. Within this context, we consider how disclosure regulation and enforcement mechanisms have evolved in recent years, and how this evolution has likely been affected by our ‘scandal’ cases. Our conclusions are that the case of the U.K. does not give rise to any wide‐scale concerns about the economic ill‐effects caused by the current state of recognition and disclosure with respect to expenditures on intangibles. Further, market forces are unlikely to be sufficient in ensuring honest and timely disclosures with respect to intangibles, but the combination of official regulation and voluntary self‐regulation appears to have stemmed the tide of any such disclosure scandals in the U.K.
Accounting For Goodwill
Authors: BLOOM MARTIN
Published: September 2009

This article provides a means of resolving one of accounting's ongoing problems—how to account for goodwill in an era where the unidentifiable intangible asset is often an entity's largest value component. Despite the general recognition that, in practice, the two classes of goodwill are indistinguishable in terms of their ability to generate streams of revenue, a distinction is traditionally drawn between internally generated and purchased goodwill. The former should not be brought to account because it is impossible to do so within the accepted rules of double entry bookkeeping and historical cost based accounting. On the other hand, there is no difficulty in bringing purchased goodwill to account, but controversy has always existed as to how to treat the amount once recognized. It can confidently be expected that, as anomalies and practical difficulties manifest themselves in practice, the current impairment regime will, in its turn, be abandoned.
Hot topics in aging research: protein translation, 2009
Authors: Kennedy Brian K. , Kaeberlein Matt
Published: September 2009

In the last few years, links between regulation of mRNA translation and aging have been firmly established in invertebrate model organisms. This year, a possible relationship between mRNA translation and aging in mammals has been established with the report that rapamycin increases lifespan in mice. Other significant findings have connected translation control with other known longevity pathways and provided fodder for mechanistic hypotheses. Here, we summarize advances in this emerging field and raise questions for future studies.
Understanding Humanity’s Damaged Future
Authors: Catton, Jr William R.
Published: September 2009

The notion that social facts can be caused only by other social facts is obsolete. Human societies today are affected by biogeochemical change. “Developed” human societies so overuse the finite planet they share with “underdeveloped” societies that the future of all is threatened.

Medicine’s prosthesis concept becomes useful for sociology when extended beyond referring to devices for replacing lost body parts or restoring impaired sensory powers. If we regard all modern tools and machines as prosthetic devices, we see them enabling humans to act as giants—giving us colossal resource appetites and huge environmental impacts.

Prosthetic apparatus (and familiar assumptions) previously useful are subject to obsolescence. But there is cultural lag. Conceptual habits restrict the way we see our world. The bubble of twentieth century experience obstructs our understanding of the future into which we giants are plummeting. To explain severe hardships ahead in the twenty‐first century, sociologists need to break out of our discipline’s traditional conceptual bubble. Twentieth century expectations have become misleading. The basis of past progress (a carrying capacity surplus) is gone, replaced by a carrying capacity deficit. Earth’s diminished carrying capacity will sustain fewer (dinosaur‐equivalent) Homo colossus than original Homo sapiens.
Oriented precipitates of quartz and amphibole in clinopyroxene of metabasites from the Greek Rhodope: a product of open system precipitation during eclogite–granulite–amphibolite transition
Authors: PROYER A. , KRENN K. , HOINKES G.
Published: September 2009

In metabasites from the high‐grade metamorphic Kimi Complex of the Greek Rhodope, lamellae of quartz and amphibole were observed together with either rutile or titanite precipitates in the cores of clinopyroxene that underwent a prolonged exhumation history from eclogite via granulite and amphibolite facies conditions. Lamellae are crystallographically oriented along clinopyroxene cleavage planes (010) and interpreted as the result of precipitation during a two‐step intracrystalline compositional adjustment from an omphacite‐ to a Ca‐Tschermak‐rich clinopyroxene and finally to diopside. Even though retrograde diffusion profiles develop in clinopyroxene, the diffusion rates of highly charged ions like Si4+, Al3+and Ti4+are too slow, so precipitates rich in Si4+ (quartz), Al3+(amphibole) and Ti4+(rutile or titanite) form as viable kinetic alternatives. These precipitation reactions are not possible isochemically, and additional exchange of ions with the matrix is required for precipitation to occur. This exchange of mainly rapidly diffusing low‐charge ions is postulated to proceed by bulk diffusion (self‐diffusion) and does not require special pathways or fluid, even though these may play an additional role during metamorphism. This hitherto undescribed process of precipitation made possible by diffusional exchange with the matrix through an intact host crystal lattice is termed here as ‘open system precipitation’ (OSP). No prior Ca‐Eskola‐rich (ultrahigh‐pressure, UHP) composition of omphacite is required to explain the observed precipitates. It is proposed that many precipitation phenomena that were hard to explain in a closed‐system scenario can now be explained more readily by OSP. Calculation of an original solid solution composition, as in an UHP phase, from precipitate and host mineral analyses becomes imprecise to the degree that bulk diffusion and hence OSP have been important.
Maximizing Mandibular Prosthesis Stability Utilizing Linear Occlusion, Occlusal Plane Selection, and Centric Recording
Authors: Williamson Richard A. , Williamson Anne E. , Bowley John , Toothaker Randy
Published: September 2009

The stability of mandibular complete dentures may be improved by reducing the transverse forces on the denture base through linear (noninterceptive) occlusion, selecting an occlusal plane that reduces horizontal vectors of force at occlusal contact, and utilizing a central bearing intraoral gothic arch tracing to record jaw relations. This article is intended to acquaint the reader with one technique for providing stable complete denture prostheses using the aforementioned materials, devices, and procedures.
Retrofitting an Existing Implant Overdenture to a New and Redesigned Intraoral Framework: A Clinical Report
Authors: Toothaker Randy , Soultanis Ioannis , Ojha Ajay , Ashcraft‐Olmscheid Deborah L. , Chang Myung W. Brian
Published: September 2009

The esthetics and function of a tissue borne, implant retained overdenture are two of the most important factors that define a patient's acceptance of the prosthesis. In this clinical report, an existing implant overdenture, which was esthetically acceptable to the patient but which had no incorporated retentive components in the substructure framework, was retrofitted to a newly designed and fabricated implant framework. The added retentive components on the new framework increased the patient's overall masticatory function, reduced the frequency of dental visits, and allowed the patient to retain the original overdenture.
Spinal cord infarction in a patient with metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer, receiving chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab
Authors: MASSELOS Katherine , BEGBIE Stephen , LEES Jennifer Nicole
Published: September 2009

Bevacizumab is an anti‐angiogenesis agent that has many applications in the current management of patients with cancer, including advanced non‐small cell lung cancer. Its value is however, not without side effects. We present the first reported case of spinal cord infarction in the setting of bevacizumab use in a 70‐year old woman with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer.
Metachronous bilateral primary low‐grade mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue non‐Hodgkins lymphoma of the breast
Authors: YILMAZ M Helene , MILLAR Ewan KA , THEOCHAROUS Con , GRAHAM Peter H
Published: September 2009

We report the rare occurrence of bilateral low‐grade MALT lymphoma of the breast in a 73 year old female. The clinical, pathological and treatment details are discussed, with a review of the literature.
Comparison of radiologically inserted arm ports versus surgically placed chest ports for chemotherapy
Authors: WEICKHARDT Andrew , JOSEPH Timothy , SHEA Susan , ARHANGHELSCHI Dan , LOWE Andrew , HAMILTON Kate , CHONG Geoff
Published: September 2009

Aim:  Central venous access ports (CVAP) are often required to deliver chemotherapy to cancer patients. Arm‐sited CVAP are an alternative to traditional chest‐sited CVAP, but their durability and complication rates have not been thoroughly compared.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis at a single institution was conducted of all patients who had a chest port inserted for chemotherapy over a 30‐month period and compared to patients who had an arm port inserted over a subsequent 30‐month period. The minimum follow‐up period in patients who did not die from cancer was 6 months. The primary endpoint was successful use of the port, defined as a patient completing chemotherapy without a complication prompting removal of the port.

Results:  The success rate was not significantly different between arm port (92 patients) or chest port (49 patients) groups (88 vs 92%). There were no significant differences between infective or thrombotic complications in the two groups.

Conclusion:  Arm CVAP were found to be equivalent in durability and complications compared to chest CVAP for chemotherapy administration at a regional oncology unit.
Influence of Nepheline Syenite on Mechanical Reliability of Ceramic Raschig Rings
Authors: Rostami Nazila , Salem Amin , Paknjhad Alireza
Published: September 2009

The influence of nepheline syenite on physicomechanical properties of extruded ceramic Raschig ring was investigated. Industrial kaolin was used as reference composition and different amounts of kaolin were replaced with nepheline syenite ranging 5–15 wt%. The laboratory experimental results showed that the use of 5 wt% nepheline syenite in ceramic composition improves the final product characteristics. This mix also showed maximum mechanical compressive strength and reliability attributed to improve microstructural homogeneity. On comparing the chemical resistance data, it was found that the optimum condition for obtaining the maximum strength and reliability satisfactorily covers the optimum condition for chemical resistance.
Fatty Acid Conjugated Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles for Protein Delivery
Authors: Paul Willi , Sharma Chandra P.
Published: September 2009

Calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles with particle sizes <100 nm were prepared and conjugated with lauric acid. This was achieved by first activating the phosphate group of CaP and conjugating it with lauric acid via acid chloride route incorporating chitosan as a spacer. Insulin was loaded and the nanoparticles were coated with alginate to impart pH‐dependent sustained release. The released insulin was stable without alteration of the conformation of insulin and the particles were found to be noncytotoxic. Thus these CaP nanoparticles may be used as an excellent carrier for delivering protein drugs particularly insulin orally.
COMPARISON OF ATTRIBUTE LIKING AND JAR SCALES TO EVALUATE THE ADEQUACY OF SENSORY ATTRIBUTES OF MILK DESSERTS
Authors: ARES GASTÓN , BARREIRO CECILIA , GIMÉNEZ ANA
Published: September 2009

Just‐about‐right (JAR) scales and attribute liking questions are usually used to study consumer perception of the sensory characteristics of food products. The aim of the present work was to compare the performance of attribute liking and JAR scales to evaluate consumers' perceived adequacy of flavor and texture of milk puddings. Two groups of consumers were asked to evaluate eight milk desserts using (1) overall liking followed by attribute liking for texture and flavor and (2) overall liking followed by JAR scales for thickness, creaminess, sweetness and vanilla flavor. Overall liking scores were significantly different when JAR scales or attribute liking questions were considered. Texture, flavor and overall liking scores were highly correlated to each other, providing the same information. JAR scales correlated better with the intensity of sensory attributes evaluated by a trained sensory panel, being JAR percentages a reliable tool to study the adequacy of sensory attributes.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Results from the present work showed that consumers might not be able to independently evaluate their liking of different sensory attributes of a product. For this reason, the use of attribute liking questions for studying the adequacy of sensory attributes in complex products would not be recommended. JAR scales were better indicators of the adequacy of sensory attributes. Consumers were able to independently evaluate texture and flavor attributes using JAR scales. However, the influence of JAR scales on overall liking scores should be taken into account when including these scales on consumer studies.
Evaluating the Strength of School Tobacco Policies: The Development of a Practical Rating System
Authors: Boyce Jennifer C. , Mueller Nancy B. , Hogan‐Watts Melissa , Luke Douglas A.
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND: School tobacco control policies vary widely in their strength, extensiveness, and enforcement. Currently, no standardized method exists to assess the comprehensiveness of school tobacco policies. The purpose of this study was to develop a new practical rating system for school tobacco policies, assess its reliability, and present preliminary validation data.

METHODS: This study presents the systematic development of a rating system to assess the strength of school tobacco policies. Based on the empirical literature and the expertise of an advisory panel consisting of educational leaders and tobacco control advocates and practitioners, a “gold standard” school tobacco policy was developed and guided the content of the 40‐point rating system. The 4 domains of the School Tobacco Policy Index were: Tobacco‐free environment (14 points), Enforcement (12 points), Prevention and treatment services (6 points), and Policy organization (8 points).

RESULTS: The Index was pilot‐tested using 95 Missouri public school district tobacco policies and proved to be highly reliable among coders. The evaluated policies varied greatly between school districts, with the lowest total policy score of φ and the highest score of 21. School district policy scores were significantly related to a number of county‐level tobacco policy characteristics, including support for a tobacco excise tax increase.

CONCLUSIONS: The Index is a user‐friendly, practical tool for tobacco control professionals and educators, providing them with the ability to easily evaluate their own school policies. Their evaluation efforts will be useful in strengthening existing policies and developing new comprehensive policies to protect the health of students, staff, administrators, and visitors.
Embryonic and larval development of garpike from the Adriatic Sea
Authors: DULČIĆ Jakov , BAŽDARIĆ Branimir , GRUBIŠIĆ Leon , TUTMAN Pero , DRAGIČEVIĆ Branko
Published: September 2009

Although information about embryonic and larval development of garpike, Belone belone (Linnaeus, 1761), is present in the published literature, the bulk of research concerns garpike from the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea. The present work describes the embryonic and larval development of garpike, Belone belone, from the Adriatic Sea, and methods used for incubation of fertilized eggs in aquarium conditions. Because garpike is, as suggested by some authors, divided into subspecies, we conclude that some differences in embryonic development could also be expected. In the present study, eggs were fertilized using the dry fertilization method and were incubated in a tank equipped with aeration and constant sea water flow. Salinity and content of dissolved oxygen were constant, and the temperature varied between 19.4 and 22.3°C. Eggs were spherical, measuring 3071.9 ± 75.73 μm in diameter. Yolk sacs were homogeneous and did not contain oil globules. The first larvae hatched 329 h and 47 min after fertilization. Absorption of the yolk sac occurred 17 h – 48 h after hatching and the total length of newly hatched larvae was 9.78 mm. The peculiarities observed in the embryonic and early larval development are evidence of an exceptional plasticity and adaptive potential, which could be considered as helpful features in extending the natural range of occurrence of this species.
Production of asexual and sexual offspring in the triploid sexual planarian Dugesia ryukyuensis
Authors: KOBAYASHI Kazuya , ARIOKA Sachiko , HOSHI Motonori , MATSUMOTO Midori
Published: September 2009

Certain freshwater planarians reproduce asexually as well as sexually, and their chromosomal ploidies include polyploidy, aneuploidy and mixoploidy. Previously, we successfully performed an experiment in which a clonal population produced by asexual reproduction of the Dugesia ryukyuensis (OH strain) switched to the sexual mode of reproduction. Worms of this strain are triploid with a pericentric inversion on Chromosome 4. The worms were switched to sexual reproduction after being fed with sexually mature Bdellocephala brunnea, which is a sexually reproducing species. The resulting sexualized OH strain produced cocoons filled with several eggs. Two putative factors, Mendelian factor(s) and chromosomal control(s), have been proposed as determining the reproductive mode. The present study demonstrated that inbreeding of the resultant sexualized worms produced the following four types of offspring through sexual reproduction: diploid asexual worms, triploid asexual worms, diploid sexual worms and triploid sexual worms. The chromosomal mutation on Chromosome 4 was inherited by these offspring independent of their reproductive mode. These results provide two important pieces of information: (i) the putative genetic factor was not necessarily inherited in a Mendelian fashion; and (ii) the reproductive mode is not regulated by chromosomal changes such as polyploidy or chromosomal mutations. This suggests that asexuality in D. ryukyuensis is regulated by an unknown factor(s) other than a Mendelian factor or a chromosomal control.
Aortic Stiffness and Distensibility Among Hypertensives
Authors: Meenakshisundaram R. , Kamaraj K. , Murugan S. , Thirumalaikolundusubramanian P.
Published: September 2009

Hypertension is one among many factors that contribute to aortic stiffness, which has repercussions mainly on the heart. To assess aortic stiffness among essential hypertensives of South India and its relationship with gender. An analytical study was designed to assess aortic stiffness among 60 nonobese, nonalcoholic, nonsmoking, and non–caffeine consuming essential hypertensives without any overt illness or infection, and compared with 30 healthy age‐ and sex‐matched nonhypertensives. They were assessed clinically and also by laboratory means. Their left ventricular mass (LV) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were measured using Transthoracic echocardiogram. Aortic systolic and diastolic diameters were measured by using M‐mode echocardiography during consecutive beats and averaged for each case. Finally, aortic stiffness was calculated. The data were analyzed statistically. Hypertensives were divided into Group I, consisting of patients with hypertension at least for 5 years, who were not adherent to medication, and Group II, consisting of patients with hypertension of duration between 6 months and 1 year. There were 20 males and 10 females in each group. There was no significant difference between the hypertensive groups and a control, normotensive, group with regard to BMI or total cholesterol. The means of LV mass (in grams), systolic BP (in mmHg), diastolic BP (in mmHg), aortic systolic diameter (in mm), aortic diastolic diameter (in mm), aortic distensibility (in mm), and aortic stiffness found in Group I, Group II, and controls were 105.8 ± 23.8, 101.5 ± 21, and 84 ± 9.8; 138 ± 14.2, 153 ± 17.1, and 120 ± 8.3; 90.5 ± 11.6, 101.7 ± 17.1, and 76.5 ± 5; 30.85 ± 2.6, 28.7 ± 2.6, and 27.7 ± 2.4; 28.7 ± 2.2, 25.8 ± 2.5, and 24.2 ± 2.5; 2.14 ± 0.3, 2.84 ± 0.5, and 3.5 ± 0.6; and 1.31 ± 0.09, 1.14 ± 0.1, and 1.04 ± 0.08, respectively. The differences between the hypertensive groups and the control group were significant. Aortic stiffness was greater in hypertensives and it was independent of gender, but increased with duration of hypertension. Hypertension has effects on the aorta (decreased aortic distensibility and increased aortic stiffness) and left ventricle (increased left ventricular mass and left ventricular hypertrophy). These changes can be identified and monitored while the patient is on antihypertensive therapy along with life‐style modifications, as these are reversible. Nevertheless, these aspects do not receive due attention in medical education and training on hypertension.
Sensory Crispness of Crispy Rolls: Effect of Formulation, Storage Conditions, and Water Distribution in the Crust
Authors: Primo‐Martín C. , Van Vliet T.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT:  Crispness is an important sensory quality parameter that strongly influences the acceptability of cellular solid foods such as the crust of many types of breads. Crispness of the bread crust depends particularly on its water content. In this study, the relationship between sensory crispness of crispy rolls and the average water content of the crust was studied for different bread formulations (control, amylase, glucose‐oxidase, and protease) and storage conditions (40% and 80% RH). From the different formulations used, only protease treatment increased the crispness of the crust and its retention at both storage conditions. The positive effect of the protease treatment was due to a lower water content of the crust of these breads compared to the other formulations. The relationship between sensory attributes, formulation, and storage conditions was found to be dominated by the dependence on storage conditions. When combining data for low and high humidity storage it showed that crusts with equal water contents could exhibit different scores for crispness. The results led to the hypothesis that a gradient of water content exists within the crust. At high humidity, the crust will take up water from both crumb and environment and a relative smaller gradient of water will exist within the crust. At low humidity on the other hand, the crust will take up water from the crumb only, resulting in a larger gradient of water within the crust.
Overview of RFID Technology and Its Applications in the Food Industry
Authors: Kumar P. , Reinitz H.W. , Simunovic J. , Sandeep K.P. , Franzon P.D.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT:  Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an alternative technology with a potential to replace traditional universal product code (UPC) barcodes. RFID enables identification of an object from a distance without requiring a line of sight. RFID tags can also incorporate additional data such as details of product and manufacturer and can transmit measured environmental factors such as temperature and relative humidity. This article presents key concepts and terminology related to RFID technology and its applications in the food industry. Components and working principles of an RFID system are described. Numerous applications of RFID technology in the food industry (supply chain management, temperature monitoring of foods, and ensuring food safety) are discussed. Challenges in implementation of RFID technology are also discussed in terms of read range, read accuracy, nonuniform standards, cost, recycling issues, privacy, and security concerns.
Regulation of the stress response in rats by central actions of glucocorticoids
Authors: Scheuer Deborah A.
Published: September 2009

Chronic stress causes elevations in glucocorticoid secretion and also increases the incidence of hypertension and other manifestations of cardiovascular disease. The extent to which the elevated glucocorticoids mediate the stress‐associated increase in cardiovascular disease risk is unknown. Chronically elevated glucocorticoids can cause hypertension by acting in the periphery, but their effects within the brain on blood pressure regulation remain largely unexplored. We developed a method to produce selective chronic increases in the endogenous glucocorticoid corticosterone or the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone within the hindbrain region, which includes a key cardiovascular regulatory area, the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Experiments were performed in male Sprague–Dawley, Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) and borderline hypertensive rats (BHR). The results indicate that elevated exogenous corticosterone can act within the hindbrain to enhance the arterial pressure response to novel restraint stress and to reduce the gain and increase the mid‐point of the arterial baroreflex. Basal levels of endogenous corticosterone have no effect on the arterial pressure response to stress in normotensive rats but enhance this response in BHR. Chronic stress‐induced increases in baseline corticosterone enhance the arterial pressure response to stress in BHR but attenuate the adaptation of the response in WKY rats. Furthermore, an elevated corticosterone concentration within the hindbrain is necessary but not sufficient to cause glucocorticoid‐induced hypertension. The effects of corticosterone within the hindbrain on blood pressure regulation are mediated in part by the glucocortiocid receptor, but are also likely to involve mineralocorticoid receptor‐mediated effects and NTS catecholaminergic neurons. These data support the hypothesis that elevated glucocorticoids acting within the brain probably contribute to the adverse effects of stress on cardiovascular health in susceptible people.
Role of exercise‐induced brain‐derived neurotrophic factor production in the regulation of energy homeostasis in mammals
Authors: Pedersen Bente K. , Pedersen Maria , Krabbe Karen S. , Bruunsgaard Helle , Matthews Vance B. , Febbraio Mark A.
Published: September 2009

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to regulate neuronal development and plasticity and plays a role in learning and memory. Moreover, it is well established that BDNF plays a role in the hypothalamic pathway that controls body weight and energy homeostasis. Recent evidence identifies BDNF as a player not only in central metabolism, but also in regulating energy metabolism in peripheral organs. Low levels of BDNF are found in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and major depression. In addition, BDNF levels are low in obesity and independently so in patients with type 2 diabetes. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor is expressed in non‐neurogenic tissues, including skeletal muscle, and exercise increases BDNF levels not only in the brain and in plasma, but in skeletal muscle as well. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor mRNA and protein expression was increased in muscle cells that were electrically stimulated, and BDNF increased phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase‐beta (ACCβ) and enhanced fatty oxidation both in vitro and ex vivo. These data identify BDNF as a contraction‐inducible protein in skeletal muscle that is capable of enhancing lipid oxidation in skeletal muscle via activation of AMPK. Thus, BDNF appears to play a role both in neurobiology and in central as well as peripheral metabolism. The finding of low BDNF levels both in neurodegenerative diseases and in type 2 diabetes may explain the clustering of these diseases. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor is likely to mediate some of the beneficial effects of exercise with regard to protection against dementia and type 2 diabetes.