bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic Oligosaccharide Synthesis
Authors: Buchholz Klaus , Seibel Jürgen
Published: April 2010

Oligosaccharides (OS) have found manyfold interest in the field of food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics due to different specific properties. Food, sweeteners, and food ingredients represent important sectors where OS are used in major amounts. Commercial products comprise isomaltulose, and derivatives, isomalto‐oligosaccharides (IMOS), cyclodextrins (CD), fructosyl‐oligosaccharides (FOS), galactosyl‐oligosaccharides (Gal‐OS), and other specialties. They have been commercialized in Japan, Europe, and worldwide as sweeteners, prebiotics, etc. Nearly all major industrial processes involving carbohydrates are, or include biotechnological transformations. This is due to the complex nature of carbohydrates where stereo‐ and regioselectivity are highly complex and difficult to control. Enzymes and microorganisms in general work highly selective and efficient. Furthermore, they work in water solution and provide for high yield in general. Important examples of commercialized products will be presented in this review.

Increasing attention has been devoted to the sophisticated roles of OS and glycosylated compounds, at cell‐ or membrane surfaces, and their function, for example, in infection and cancer proliferation. The challenge for synthesis is obvious. Recent trends and promising developments for industrial use will be mentioned.
Edible Oils, Microbial Modification Processes
Authors: Hosokawa Masashi , Hou Ching T.
Published: April 2010

The United States produces a huge amount of vegetable oils, principally soybean oil (18 billion pounds of soybean oil with 1 billion pound carry over annually). Finding new uses for the huge surplus of vegetable oil is important to the US agriculture community. However, studies on oil biotechnology and bioprocesses are relatively rare. Microorganisms oxidize fatty acids either at the terminal carbon or inside the acyl chain. Oxygenated (hydroxy‐, epoxy‐) fatty acids such as ricinoleic, vernolic and/or sebacic acids are high value chemicals and can be used to produce polymers and specialty chemicals. Oxygenated fatty acids also have many bioactive properties, such as antimicrobial activity againstSalmonella,Staphylococcus, and plant pathogenic fungi. The specific physiological activity of bioactive fatty acids depends on the position of the hydroxyl groups on the fatty acyl chain. This article reviews the production of hydroxyl and keto fatty acids, and novel oxygenated fatty acids from essential fatty acids such as oleic acid, linoleic acid and other ω‐6 and ω‐3 PUFAs derived from edible plant and fish oils by the microbial bioconversion system. We also review the monooxygenase system ofBacillus megateriumALA2 gene, a self‐sufficient P450BM−3.
Lipases, Synthesis of Chiral Compounds, Aqueous and Organic Solvents
Authors: Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: April 2010

Lipases are the most frequently applied enzymes in organic synthesis. This contribution covers basic biochemical properties of lipases, aspects of reaction systems, and choice of synthetic strategies. The use of lipases in the kinetic resolution of primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols as well as other chiral compounds is covered. Finally, selected examples for the protein engineering of lipases are given.
The link between household structure and the level of abstraction in the purchase decision process: an analysis using a functional food
Authors: Barrena Ramo , Sánchez Mercedes
Published: April 2010

Major changes are affecting consumer trends in the agri‐food sector. Suppliers are engaged in launching a succession of product innovations and introducing a range of new marketing strategies to promote food health benefits, while consumers are incorporating the new attributes into their choice structures. This study aims to analyze the consumer cognitive structure for a functional food using a means–end chain approach, through the association pattern technique (APT). A further objective is to verify whether consumer cognitive structures vary with household structure (children vs. no children), as reported in the literature on new product acceptance. The results reveal a higher degree of abstraction in the cognitive structure of households with children, incorporating more values in the means–end chains. In line with other research approaches, our study also confirms the stronger confidence‐seeking tendency typically associated with the cognitive structure of this type of household. [EconLit Classification: Q130]. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Of bonds and boundaries: what is the modern role of anthropomorphism in primatological studies?
Authors: Asquith Pamela J.
Published: April 2010

Anthropomorphism (and its obverse, zoomorphism) continues to shift and propel us toward changing perspectives on ourselves and other animals. Discussions of anthropomorphism in primate behavior are ostensibly about our use and definition of terms, but ultimately reflect our views of what is unique to humans or unknowable in other animals. Primatologists doing long‐term fieldwork report on the bonds that are inevitably formed through familiarity with their study subjects and how anecdotes and anthropomorphism help them to gain a contextualized view of animal lives. This fuller view of animal society serves as an aid to understanding different rationalities and provides a more effective modern role for anthropomorphism than does seeking to demonstrate isomorphic capacities in alloprimates. Although most ordinary language terms are accepted among primatologists, “primate culture” serves as an example of a term and a concept that overreached acceptable anthropomorphic limits when defined to accord with definitions of modern human culture. Comparing similar behavioral forms as the product of similar selective pressures acting on specific early traits, producing homoplasies through convergent evolution, provides a nonanthropomorphic basis for seeking similarities in human and alloprimate behavior. Am. J. Primatol. 73:238–244, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantification of the familial contribution to juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Prahalad Sampath , Zeft Andrew S. , Pimentel Richard , Clifford Bronte , McNally Bernadette , Mineau Geraldine P. , Jorde Lynn B. , Bohnsack John F.
Published: April 2010

Objective

We previously demonstrated that there is familial aggregation of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Using a large JIA cohort, we sought to identify additional clusters of JIA cases and to calculate robust estimates of the relative risk (RR) of JIA in the siblings and cousins of JIA probands. We also estimated the population attributable risk (PAR) of familial factors in JIA.

Methods

A probabilistic record‐linking analysis was performed by matching the records of 862 patients with JIA with the records of ∼7 million individuals in the Utah Population Database (UPDB), a computerized genealogic database. For each patient, 5 control subjects matched for birth year and sex were selected from the UPDB. Specialized software was used to test for familial aggregation of disease, to estimate the magnitude of familial risks, and to identify families at high risk of disease.

Results

We identified 22 founders who had significantly more descendants with JIA than expected (5–13 descendants; P values ranged from <0.0001 to <0.008). The PAR of familial factors for JIA was ∼13%. The RR of JIA in the siblings of patients was significantly increased (11.6, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 4.9–27.5, P < 2.59 × 10−8). The RR of JIA in first cousins was also increased (5.82, 95% CI 2.5–13.8, P < 6.07 × 10−5).

Conclusion

We have identified the largest sets of JIA pedigrees described to date. Approximately 13% of cases of JIA can be attributed to familial factors. Siblings and first cousins of probands with JIA have an increased risk of JIA. The observed decline in the magnitude of risk between siblings and cousins suggests that JIA is influenced by shared genetic factors.
Adverse meteorological phenomena associated with low‐level baric troughs in the Alagoas State, Brazil, in 2003
Authors: Rodrigues Luis Ricardo Lage , Fedorova Natalia , Levit Vladimir
Published: April 2010

Baric troughs were studied over the Alagoas State, Brazil, in 2003. The relationship between these synoptic systems, weekly sea surface temperature anomaly and adverse meteorological phenomena in the Alagoas State, was analyzed. The maximum trough frequency occurred at low levels during the wetter and colder season in the investigated region (June and July). Most of the troughs were observed at 1200 UTC. It was also noted that 87% of the troughs was associated with wavy disturbance in the trade winds on the northwestern periphery of the subtropical South Atlantic High. These troughs were associated with meteorological phenomena in a stable and an unstable atmosphere. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Long-term metabolic outcome and quality of life after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or impaired fasting glucose
Authors: Caiazzo R , Arnalsteen L , Pigeyre M , Dezfoulian G , Verkindt H , Kirkby-Bott J , Mathurin P , Fontaine P , Romon M , Pattou F
Published: April 2010

Background

The long-term outcome of type 2 diabetes mellitus after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is unknown.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort study was undertaken of patients with grade 3 obesity and type 2 diabetes or impaired fasting glucose (IFG) undergoing LAGB. Metabolic outcomes and quality of life (QoL) were assessed before and 5 years after LAGB.

Results

At 5 years, data for 22 out of 23 patients with type 2 diabetes and 51 out of 53 with IFG were available. Mean(s.d.) excess weight loss was 41(25) and 41(27) per cent in patients with type 2 diabetes and IFG respectively, and was associated with a significant decrease in haemoglobin (Hb) A1c, fasting and postprandial blood glucose, insulin and triglyceride levels, and in liver steatosis. There were significant increases in insulin sensitivity, β-cell function, disposition index, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and QoL (Nottingham Health Profile). Good metabolic control (HbA1c 7 per cent or less) was obtained in 13 diabetic patients, but complete diabetes remission was maintained in only four. Longer duration of diabetes, and poor preoperative glucose control and β-cell function at baseline were associated with a less favourable outcome.

Conclusion

LAGB improved metabolic outcomes and QoL in patients with grade 3 obesity with IFG or type 2 diabetes but rarely led to prolonged remission in long-standing diabetes.
Endoglin negatively regulates transforming growth factor β1-induced profibrotic responses in intestinal fibroblasts
Authors: Burke J P , Watson R W G , Mulsow J J , Docherty N G , Coffey J C , O'Connell P R
Published: April 2010

Background

Fibroblasts isolated from strictures in Crohn's disease (CD) exhibit reduced responsiveness to stimulation with transforming growth factor (TGF) β1. TGF-β1, acting through the smad pathway, is critical to fibroblast-mediated intestinal fibrosis. The membrane glycoprotein, endoglin, is a negative regulator of TGF-β1.

Methods

Intestinal fibroblasts were cultured from seromuscular biopsies of patients undergoing intestinal resection for CD strictures or from control patients. Endoglin expression was assessed using confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and western blot. The effect of small interfering (si) RNA-mediated knockdown and plasmid-mediated overexpression of endoglin on fibroblast responsiveness to TGF-β1 was assessed by examining smad phosphorylation, smad binding element (SBE) promoter activity, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression and ability to contract collagen.

Results

Crohn's stricture fibroblasts expressed increased constitutive cell-surface and whole-cell endoglin relative to control cells. Endoglin co-localized with filamentous actin. Fibroblasts treated with siRNA directed against endoglin exhibited enhanced TGF-β1-mediated smad-3 phosphorylation, and collagen contraction. Cells transfected with an endoglin plasmid did not respond to TGF-β1 by exhibiting SBE promoter activity or producing CTGF.

Conclusion

Fibroblasts from strictures in CD express increased constitutive endoglin. Endoglin is a negative regulator of TGF-β1 signalling in the intestinal fibroblast, modulating smad-3 phosphorylation, SBE promoter activity, CTGF production and collagen contraction.
Tumour growth following portal branch ligation in an experimental model of liver metastases
Authors: Kollmar O , Corsten M , Scheuer C , Vollmar B , Schilling M K , Menger M D
Published: April 2010

Background

Portal branch ligation (PBL) is being used increasingly before hepatectomy for colorectal metastases. This study evaluated the effect of PBL on angiogenesis, growth factor expression and tumour growth in a mouse model of hepatic colorectal metastases.

Methods

CT26.WT cells were implanted into the left liver lobe of BALB/c mice. Animals underwent PBL of the left liver lobe or sham treatment. Angiogenesis, microcirculation, growth factor expression, cell proliferation and tumour growth were studied over 14 and 21 days by intravital multifluorescence microscopy, laser Doppler flowmetry, immunohistochemistry and western blotting.

Results

Left hilar blood flow and tumour microcirculation were significantly diminished during the first 7 days after PBL. This resulted in tumour volume being 20 per cent less than in sham controls by day 14. Subsequently, PBL-treated animals demonstrated recovery of left hilar blood flow and increased expression of hepatocyte growth factor and transforming growth factor α, associated with increased cell proliferation and acceleration of growth by day 21.

Conclusion

PBL initially reduced vascular perfusion and tumour growth, but this was followed by increased growth factor expression and cell proliferation. This resulted in delayed acceleration of tumour growth, which might explain the stimulated tumour growth observed occasionally after PBL.
Pain relief after Frey's procedure for chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Negi S , Singh A , Chaudhary A
Published: April 2010

Background

Few studies have addressed long-term pain relief after Frey's procedure (local head resection with lateral pancreaticojejunostomy, LR-LPJ) for chronic pancreatitis. This retrospective study evaluated pain control using a validated score and risk factors associated with failure to achieve complete pain relief following LR-LPJ.

Methods

Sixty of 134 patients with chronic pancreatitis underwent LR-LPJ and were evaluated prospectively using the Izbicki pain score before surgery, and 1, 2, 5 and 7 years later. Analysis was on an intention-to-treat basis and predictors of complete pain relief were identified by multivariable analysis.

Results

After a median follow-up of 6·4 years, the median pain score was reduced from 46·4 to 10·0 (P < 0·001) with partial or complete pain relief in 75 per cent of patients, and a significant reduction in median number of episodes requiring hospitalization (from 4 to 0; P < 0·001). Preoperative use of opiate medication (odds ratio (OR) 30·14; P = 0·015), continuous pattern of pain (OR 22·65; P = 0·025) and occurrence of postoperative complications (OR 10·52; P = 0·030) were significant predictors of failure to achieve complete pain relief after surgery.

Conclusion

Frey's procedure leads to significant and sustained long-term pain relief in patients with chronic pancreatitis. Patients should be referred for surgery before opiates are needed to relieve pain.
Economic evaluation of erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents for anemia related to cancer
Authors: Klarenbach Scott , Manns Braden , Reiman Tony , Reaume Martin Neil , Lee Helen , Lloyd Anita , Wiebe Natasha , Hemmelgarn Brenda , Tonelli Marcello
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESA) administered to cancer patients with anemia reduce the need for blood transfusions and improve quality‐of‐life (QOL). Concerns about toxicity have led to more restrictive recommendations for ESA use; however, the incremental costs and benefits of such a strategy are unknown.

METHODS:

The authors created a decision model to examine the costs and consequences of ESA use in patients with anemia and cancer from the perspective of the Canadian public healthcare system. Model inputs were informed by a recent systematic review. Extensive sensitivity analyses and scenario analysis rigorously assessed QOL benefits and more conservative ESA administration practices (initial hemoglobin [Hb] <10 g/dL, target Hb ≤12 g/dL, and chemotherapy induced anemia only).

RESULTS:

Compared with supportive transfusions only, conventional ESA treatment was associated with an incremental cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) gained of $267,000 during a 15‐week time frame. During a 1.3‐year time horizon, ESA was associated with higher costs and worse clinical outcomes. In scenarios where multiple assumptions regarding QOL all favored ESA, the lowest incremental cost per QALY gained was $126,000. Analyses simulating the use of ESA in accordance with recently issued guidelines resulted in incremental cost per QALY gained of >$100,000 or ESA being dominated (greater costs with lower benefit) in the majority of the scenarios, although greater variability in the cost‐utility ratio was present.

CONCLUSIONS:

Use of ESA for anemia related to cancer is associated with incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios that are not economically attractive, even when used in a conservative fashion recommended by current guidelines. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Comparison of classification systems in melanoma sentinel lymph nodes—An analysis of 697 patients from a single center
Authors: Meier Andre , Satzger Imke , Völker Bernward , Kapp Alexander , Gutzmer Ralf
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

In melanoma, different classification systems have been proposed that predict overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) based on findings in the sentinel lymph node (SLN). The authors of this report compared the RFS and OS of 697 melanoma patients as predicted by various classification systems.

METHODS:

The Rotterdam system (based on the greatest dimension of the largest tumor cell deposit), the Augsburg S‐classification (based on tumor penetrative depth [TPD]), and the Hannover system (based on a combination of tumor load, TPD, and invasion of the capsule) were studied in 697 consecutive melanoma patients who underwent SLN biopsy at the authors' center.

RESULTS:

In univariate analyses, the Rotterdam and Hannover systems (but not the S‐classification) identified 1 group of SLN‐positive patients that had OS and RFS similar to the OS and RFS of SLN‐negative patients. The intermediate groups from all classification systems did not differ significantly with regard to RFS and/or OS from the adjacent groups. In multivariate analysis using a Cox model, the greatest dimension of the largest tumor cell deposit (cutoff point, <0.1 mm vs ≥0.1 mm), the TPD (cutoff point, ≤2 mm vs >2 mm), and capsular involvement represented independent parameters for RFS; and TPD and capsular involvement also were independent parameters for OS. On the basis of these 3 parameters, a new scoring system for risk assessment in patients with melanoma is proposed that can distinguish 3 separate groups of patients that differed significantly in OS and RFS.

CONCLUSIONS:

Different parameters of independent prognostic significance were identified in SLNs from patients with melanoma. Combining these parameters, the prognosis of patients with melanoma was predicted more precisely by the new scoring system than by currently published classification systems. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Prognostic factors of survival in the trastuzumab era among women with breast cancer and brain metastases who receive whole brain radiotherapy
Authors: Dawood Shaheenah , Gonzalez‐Angulo Ana M. , Albarracin Constance , Yu Tse Kuan , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Buchholz Thomas A. , Woodward Wendy A.
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

The objective of this study was to review the outcome of women with breast cancer with known receptor status who were treated with whole brain radiotherapy for brain metastases and to determine factors that impact survival.

METHODS:

A total of 223 women with breast cancer and brain metastases, who received whole brain radiotherapy, were identified. All women with HER‐2–positive disease had received trastuzumab. Kaplan‐Meier product limit method was used to determine overall survival (OS) estimates. Cox proportional hazards models were then fitted to explore the association of OS with various patient and tumor characteristics.

RESULTS:

Median age at brain metastases diagnosis was 50 years. Sixty‐seven (30.2%) patients had hormone receptor‐positive/HER‐2–negative disease, 101 (45.50%) had HER‐2–positive disease, and 54 (24.3%) had triple receptor‐negative disease. Median OS from brain metastases was 6 months, with 1‐year survival of 30% (95% confidence interval [CI], 23%‐36%). Women with hormone receptor‐positive/HER‐2–negative, HER‐2–positive, and triple‐negative tumors had median survivals of 5, 9, and 5 months, respectively (P = .0069). In the multivariate model, women with HER‐2–positive disease had a significantly decreased risk of death compared with women with hormone receptor‐positive/HER‐2–negative disease (hazard ratio, 0.63; 95%CI, 0.42‐0.94; P = .02). The risk of death among women with triple‐negative disease compared with hormone receptor‐positive/HER‐2–negative disease was not significantly different (P = .54). Lower recursive partitioning analysis class and ≥30‐gray brain radiation dose were also significantly associated with a decreased risk of death.

CONCLUSIONS:

Breast tumor subtype has a significant prognostic role among women with breast cancer and brain metastases. In addition, in the trastuzumab era factors such as recursive partitioning analysis and adequate radiation dose continue to be important prognostic factors. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Myth: We can tailor palliative care to match life expectancy. Reality: No we can't
Authors: Hartsell William F.
Published: April 2010

The goal of palliative therapy is to palliate, not to cure. For the best palliative results for our patients (and their caregivers), this should be done as rapidly as possible.
Radiofrequency field‐induced thermal cytotoxicity in cancer cells treated with fluorescent nanoparticles
Authors: Glazer Evan S. , Curley Steven A.
Published: April 2010

BACKGROUND:

Nonionizing radiation, such as radiofrequency field and near infrared laser, induces thermal cytotoxicity in cancer cells treated with gold nanoparticles. Quantum dots are fluorescent semiconducting nanoparticles that were hypothesized to induce similar injury after radiofrequency field irradiation.

METHODS:

Gold nanoparticles and 2 types of quantum dot (cadmium‐selenide and indium‐gallium‐phosphide) conjugated to cetuximab (C225), a monoclonal antibody against human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐1, demonstrated concentration‐dependent heating in a radiofrequency field. The authors investigated the effect of radiofrequency field exposure after targeted nanoparticle treatment in a coculture of 2 human cancer cell lines that have differential EGFR‐1 expression (a high‐expressing pancreatic carcinoma, Panc‐1, and a low‐expressing breast carcinoma, Cama‐1).

RESULTS:

Radiofrequency revealed that Panc‐1 or Cama‐1 cells not containing gold nanoparticles or quantum dots had a viability of >92%. The viability of Panc‐1 cells exposed to the radiofrequency field after treatment with 50 nM Au‐C225 was 39.4% ± 8.3% without injury to bystander Cama‐1 cells (viability was 93.7% ± 1.0%; P ∼ .0006). Panc‐1 cells treated with targeted cadmium‐selenide quantum dots were only 47.5% viable after radiofrequency field exposure (P<.0001 compared with radiofrequency only Panc‐1 control cells). Targeted indium‐gallium‐phosphide quantum dots decreased Panc‐1 viability to 58.2% ± 3.4% after radiofrequency field exposure (P = ∼.0004 compared with Cama‐1 and Panc‐1 controls).

CONCLUSIONS:

The authors selectively induced radiofrequency field cytotoxicity in Panc‐1 cells without injury to bystander Cama‐1 cells using EGFR‐1–targeted nanoparticles, and demonstrated an interesting bifunctionality of fluorescent nanoparticles as agents for both cancer cell imaging and treatment. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Complex adaptive systems and game theory: An unlikely union
Authors: Hadzikadic Mirsad , Carmichael Ted , Curtin Charles
Published: April 2010

A Complex Adaptive System is a collection of autonomous, heterogeneous agents, whose behavior is defined with a limited number of rules. A Game Theory is a mathematical construct that assumes a small number of rational players who have a limited number of actions or strategies available to them. The CAS method has the potential to alleviate some of the shortcomings of GT. On the other hand, CAS researchers are always looking for a realistic way to define interactions among agents. GT offers an attractive option for defining the rules of such interactions in a way that is both potentially consistent with observed real‐world behavior and subject to mathematical interpretation. This article reports on the results of an effort to build a CAS system that utilizes GT for determining the actions of individual agents. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity, 16,24–42, 2010
Properties and industrial applications of sophorolipids
Authors: Develter Dirk W. G. , Lauryssen Luc M. L.
Published: April 2010

Sophorolipids are glycolipids that can be produced by bioconversion of native and renewable feedstocks such as rapeseed oil. These attractive surfactants combine green chemistry and a lower carbon footprint without the undesirable side products or environmental downsides associated with many market reference surfactants. Sophorolipids are reported to be fully biodegradable and to have a low acute toxicity. This study demonstrates that they do not affect Daphnia reproduction, and that the chronic toxicity is an order of magnitude lower than that of reference surfactants, with a no‐observed‐effect concentration (NOEC) of 11.3 mg/L as compared to approximately 1 mg/L. Their minimum surface tension was found to be 32.1–34.2 mN/m depending on the method used. Sophorolipids are shown to be useful in hard surface cleaning and automatic dishwashing rinse aid formulations. This is attributed in part to their low foaming profile combined with their surface activity properties, which are of potential interest in additional applications. They combine an outstanding environmental profile with excellent performance, and are thus suitable for use in commercial household products.
On the production and identification of medium‐chained sophorolipids
Authors: Fleurackers Steve J. J. , Van Bogaert Inge N. A. , Develter Dirk
Published: April 2010

Sophorolipids are biologically produced surfactants that consist of a hydrophilic sophorose moiety bound to a hydroxylated lipophilic substrate. The highest levels of production are currently achieved using Candida bombicola ATCC 22214, an ascomycotous yeast, as the production organism. The lipophilic moiety is typically found to have a length between C16 and C18 and thus the applications of readily produced sophorolipids with regard to cleaning purposes are somewhat limited. Experiments were performed to evaluate the conditions under which a β‐oxidation deficient strain of C. bombicola is able to convert 1‐dodecanol into sophorolipids. Both shakeflask and bioreactor cultures yielded C12, or medium‐chained, sophorolipids and the effect of aeration on the production level was investigated and found to favour limited aeration. Analysis of the conversion products was performed through RP‐HPLC and the formation of new‐to‐nature sophorolipids was confirmed by MS. The use of the β‐oxidation deficient strain under limited aeration yielded at least 15 g/L of medium‐chained sophorolipids, which is more than in the wild‐type strain or when employing full aeration.
Palm‐based functional lipid nanodispersions: Preparation, characterization and stability evaluation
Authors: Cheong Jean Ne , Tan Chin Ping
Published: April 2010

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of high‐pressure homogenization conditions, namely pressure (20–80 MPa) and number of cycles (1–3 cycles), on the properties of palm‐based functional lipids. Nanodispersions prepared with palm‐based functional lipid and Tween 20 were characterized by monitoring their physicochemical and morphological properties. The results showed that high‐pressure homogenizer was an efficient emulsification technique producing small emulsion droplets with narrow size distribution. In general, the results showed that different homogenization conditions had significant (p < 0.05) effect on the size distribution of prepared nanodispersions. Average particles ranging from 95 to 130 nm and 140 to 210 nm were obtained for the nanoemulsions containing palm‐based tocopherol–tocotrienol and carotenoid, respectively. However, this study indicated that increasing the energy input beyond moderate pressures (20–80 MPa) and cycles (1–3) led to “over‐processing” of droplets. The nanodispersions proved to be physically stable and showed good stability during 12 weeks of storage.
Effectiveness of antioxidants in preventing oxidation of palm oil enriched with heme iron: A model for iron fortification in baked products
Authors: Aleman Mercedes , Nuchi Carla Daniela , Bou Ricard , Tres Alba , Polo Javier , Guardiola Francesc , Codony Rafael
Published: April 2010

Bakery products such as biscuits, cookies, and pastries represent a good medium for iron fortification in food products, since they are consumed by a large proportion of the population at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia, mainly children. The drawback, however, is that iron fortification can promote oxidation. To assess the extent of this, palm oil added with heme iron and different antioxidants was used as a model for evaluating the oxidative stability of some bakery products, such as baked goods containing chocolate. The palm oil samples were heated at 220°C for 10 min to mimic the conditions found during a typical baking processing. The selected antioxidants were a free radical scavenger (tocopherol extract (TE), 0 and 500 mg/kg), an oxygen scavenger (ascorbyl palmitate (AP), 0 and 500 mg/kg), and a chelating agent (citric acid (CA), 0 and 300 mg/kg). These antioxidants were combined using a factorial design and were compared to a control sample, which was not supplemented with antioxidants. Primary (peroxide value and lipid hydroperoxide content) and secondary oxidation parameters (p‐anisidine value, p‐AnV) were monitored over a period of 200 days in storage at room temperature. The combination of AP and CA was the most effective treatment in delaying the onset of oxidation. TE was not effective in preventing oxidation. The p‐AnV did not increase during the storage period, indicating that this oxidation marker was not suitable for monitoring oxidation in this model.
Effects of dietary glucosylceramide on dermatitis in atopic dermatitis model mice
Authors: Ono Jisaburo , Kinoshita Mikio , Aida Kazuhiko , Tamura Masahiko , Ohnishi Masao
Published: April 2010

The effects of dietary plant and yeast cerebroside (glucosylceramide), a major sphingolipid in plants and yeast, on atopic dermatitis (AD) like symptoms were investigated in a mouse model. After 7 wk of feeding with a diet containing maize glucosylceramide, plasma IgE levels became significantly lower and in contrast, the levels of interleukin (IL)‐12, which induces cellular immunity, became significantly higher in the AD mice than in the controls. However, the sphingolipid constituents of the skin fraction in the maize glucosylceramide fed group did not contain sphingoid bases of plant origin, such as 8‐unsaturated sphingoid bases. The results of the present study indicated that dietary plant glucosylceramide prevented AD‐like symptoms in AD model mice via regulation of Th1/Th2 balance.

Practical applications: Dietary plant and yeast glucosylceramides have been shown to suppress AD‐like symptoms in AD model mice via regulation of helper T‐cell Th1/Th2 balance. Glucosylceramide are capable of preventing AD and may be useful in skincare products.
Effect of argan kernel storage conditions on argan oil quality
Authors: Harhar Hicham , Gharby Saïd , Guillaume Dominique , Charrouf Zoubida
Published: April 2010

In the present study, we investigated the relationships between storage conditions of argan kernels and argan oil quality over a 1‐year period. Argan kernels were packaged in black or white bags. Kernels in black bags were stored at room temperature (RT) while kernels in white bags were stored either at RT or at 4°C. Quality parameters periodically monitored over the 12 months were peroxide and acid value, oil yield, moisture content, UV absorption, and fatty acid composition. Whereas light had no impact on argan oil quality, only argan kernel storage at 4°C allowed a perfect preservation of argan oil quality after 1 year.

Practical applications: In the present study we have established that solar light does not damage argan kernels in such a way that it could alter argan oil quality, and that argan kernels can be stored for up to 1 year at 4°C without alteration of argan oil quality. If stored at RT, argan kernels should be used within 10 months to prepare edible argan oil.
Survey of qualitative traits of European sea bass cultivated in different rearing systems
Authors: Roncarati Alessandra , Sirri Federico , di Domenico Alessandro , Brambilla Gianfranco , Iamiceli Anna Laura , Melotti Paolo , Meluzzi Adele
Published: April 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the main qualitative traits of European sea bass fattened in farms adopting different rearing techniques (offshore cages, inshore cages, land‐based basins) but fed the same diets in each production cycle, in a three year survey (2006, 2007, 2008). Three farms were chosen for each rearing technique and two sampling sessions of ten fish each were carried out for each rearing cycle. Proximate composition, fatty acid profile, and cholesterol content were evaluated in the fillet of marketable size fish as well as morpho‐biometric parameters and indices. Diets administered in 2008 had higher amounts of lipids, lower proportions of n–3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and higher proportions of n–6 PUFA compared to 2006 and 2007 diets. The chemical and fatty acid composition of the fish fillet was affected by the diet composition: fish fattened in 2008 exhibited statistically higher amounts of fat and cholesterol, lower proportions of n–3 PUFA and higher proportions of n–6 PUFA in comparison with fish cultivated in 2006 and 2007. Fish cultivated in cages, both offshore and inshore cages, exhibited leaner fillets, lower amounts of cholesterol and higher proportions of n–3 PUFA than fish cultivated in basins.

Practical applications: In this study we have analyzed the combined effects of feeding and rearing systems of sea bass in a 3‐year survey for the first time. The results showed that feeding is the main factor affecting fish quality as regards both the chemical composition and the fatty acid profile. The partial substitution of fish meal and fish oil with vegetable sources, with the aim of saving the wild fish biomass as well as formulating less expensive diets, strongly alters the fillet composition. We also showed that the rearing system of fish in offshore cages makes it is possible to obtain better quality products.
Disposable Bismuth Oxide Screen Printed Electrodes for the Sensing of Zinc in Seawater
Authors: Khairy Mohamed , Kadara Rashid O. , Kampouris Dimitrios K. , Banks Craig E.
Published: April 2010

Screen printed bismuth oxide electrochemical sensing platforms are explored towards the electroanalytical determination of zinc(II). In acetate buffer solutions (pH 4.5) a linear range from 75 to 600 μg L−1is possible with a detection limit of 33 μg L−1. The sensors were explored in seawater and found that reduction in the sensitivity by a factor of 1.5 is observed with a linear range of 100 to 350 μg L−1and detection limit of 50 μg L−1is possible. Tailoring of the deposition time to shorter durations allows mg L−1levels of zinc(II) to be determined in seawater which is in accordance with monitoring levels set by the World Health Organisation and USA Environmental Protection Agency. The screen printed sensors preclude the need for electrode pretreatment and in situ or ex situ modification with bismuth metal and their disposable and economical nature make them attractive for in‐the‐field high throughput screening of zinc(II) in water samples.
Label‐Free Electrochemical Thrombin Aptasensor Based on Ag Nanoparticles Modified Electrode
Authors: Suprun Elena , Shumyantseva Victoria , Rakhmetova Svetlana , Voronina Svetlana , Radko Sergey , Bodoev Nikolay , Archakov Alexander
Published: April 2010

A novel label‐free electrochemical method for protein detection based on redox properties of silver was developed. As recognition elements, thrombin‐binding aptamers were used. Screen printed electrodes modified with silver nanoparticles (AgNP) were employed as a sensing platform for aptasensor devices. The oxidation of silver upon polarization served as a basis for analytical response. Three different thrombin binding aptamers with various surface concentrations were studied. Linear range of aptasensor response corresponded to the 10−9 M to 10−7 M thrombin concentration range and the detection limit was 10−9 M.
Characterization and Application of Bismuth‐Film Modified Graphite‐Polyurethane Composite Electrodes
Authors: Cesarino Ivana , Gouveia‐Caridade Carla , Pauliukaitė Rasa , Cavalheiro Éder T. G. , Brett Christopher M. A.
Published: April 2010

Bismuth films (BiF) deposited in situ on graphite‐polyurethane composite electrodes were successfully used for the determination of Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu and Hg, simultaneously in acetate buffer solution pH 4.5 using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry. It is possible to determine metals reoxidized at potentials more negative and more positive than Bi using in situ deposited BiF; reoxidation was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The BiF‐modified electrode was applied to analyse tap water. The influence of surface‐active compounds, Triton X‐100 and bovine serum albumin, on the stripping of these metals was investigated; Nafion coatings did not significantly improve the performance.
Simulation of long‐term soil redistribution by tillage using a cellular automata model
Authors: Vanwalleghem T. , Jiménez‐Hornero F.J. , Giráldez J.V. , Laguna A.
Published: April 2010

The process of tillage translocation is well studied and can be described adequately by different existing models. Nevertheless, in complex environments with numerous obstacles, such as olive orchards, the application of conventional tillage erosion models is not straightforward. However, such obstacles have important effects on the spatial pattern of soil redistribution and on resulting soil properties. Cellular automata could provide a valuable alternative here. This study aims at developing a cellular automata model for tillage translocation (CATT) that can take into account such obstacles, exploring its possibilities and limitations.

Firstly, model outcome was tested on a traditional field with rolling topography, for which caesium‐137 (137Cs) inventories are available. The observed spatial soil redistribution patterns could be adequately represented by the CATT model. Secondly, a global sensitivity analysis was performed to explore the effect of input parameter uncertainty on several selected model outputs. The variance‐based extended Fourier Amplitude Sensitivity Test (FAST) method was used to determine first‐ and total‐order sensitivity indices. Tillage depth was identified as the input parameter that determined most of the output variance, followed respectively by tillage direction and speed. The high difference between the total‐ and first‐order sensitivity indices indicated that, in spite of the simple model structure, the model behaves non‐linearly with respect to some of the model output variables. Higher order interactions were especially important for determining the proportion of eroding and deposition cells.

Finally, simulations were performed to analyse the model behaviour in complex landscapes, applying it to a field with protruding obstacles (representing olive trees). The model adequately represented some morphological features observed in actual olive orchards, such as mounds around the olive trees. The results show that cellular automata are an appropriate tool to describe long‐term tillage soil redistribution. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association between toll‐like receptor expression and human papillomavirus type 16 persistence
Authors: Daud Ibrahim I. , Scott Mark E. , Ma Yifei , Shiboski Stephen , Farhat Sepideh , Moscicki Anna‐Barbara
Published: April 2010

The mechanisms involved in mucosal immune control of cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) infection remain ill defined. Because toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are key players in innate immune responses, we investigated the association between TLR expression and viral persistence or clearance in young women with incident infections with oncogenic HPV types 16 or 51. Messenger RNA expression of TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8 and TLR9 was measured by quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR using human endocervical specimens, collected before and after viral acquisition, in a cohort well characterized for HPV infections. Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare the change seen from preinfection to incident infection between women who subsequently cleared infection with those who did not. HPV 16 infections that cleared were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with an increase in expression of the four viral nucleic acid‐sensing TLRs (TLR3, TLR7, TLR8 and TLR9) as well as TLR2 upon viral acquisition. Similar associations were not observed for HPV 51. In women who subsequently cleared their HPV 16 infection, changes in TLR1, TLR3, TLR7 and TLR8 expression levels between preincident and incident visits were significantly correlated with parallel changes in the levels of interferon‐α2, measured by immunoassay in cervical lavage specimens. This study suggests that dampened TLR expression in the cervical mucosa is a type‐specific mechanism by which HPV 16 interferes with innate immune responses, contributing to viral persistence, and that TLR upregulation and resultant cytokine induction is important in subsequent viral clearance.
Metastasis‐focused cell‐based SELEX generates aptamers inhibiting cell migration and invasion
Authors: Zueva Elina , Rubio Laila Illán , Ducongé Frédéric , Tavitian Bertrand
Published: April 2010

Metastasis, the capacity of tumour cells to disseminate and grow at distant sites, is the main factor in cancer mortality. Compounds inhibiting migration and invasion of cancer cells are promising candidates for anticancer therapy strategies. We have generated nuclease‐resistant RNA ligands (aptamers) recognizing highly metastatic cells with high affinity and specificity, and inhibiting their migratory and invasive potentials. Aptamers were generated by a cell‐based subtractive SELEX technology using isogenic cell lines with similar tumorigenic potentials but opposite metastatic aggressiveness. Two aptamers, E37 and E10, bound specifically to the metastatically aggressive cell line and altered the phosphorylation of several tyrosine kinases. Fluorescent microscopy showed intracellular uptake of E37, in contrast to membrane binding of E10. Both aptamers inhibited migration of tumour cells in culture (50 and 85% inhibition with respect to control pool for E10 and E37, respectively) while only E10 inhibited cell invasion (−75% with respect to control pool). This proof‐of‐concept study demonstrates the potential of cell‐based SELEX to yield ligands that selectively recognize aggressive metastatic cells and inhibit phenotypes linked to metastatic potential.
Decreased expression of BATF2 is associated with a poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ma Haiqing , Liang Xiaoting , Chen Yibing , Pan Ke , Sun Jiancong , Wang Hui , Wang Qijing , Li Yongqiang , Zhao Jingjing , Li Jianjun , Chen Minshan , Xia Jianchuan
Published: April 2010

Human BATF2, a basic leucine zipper protein, was recently detected in several normal immortalized cell lines but not in transformed cell lines. In addition, the expression of BATF2 also slowed the growth rate of malignant tumor cells injected into athymic nude mice. In this study, to study the role of BATF2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we examined BATF2 expression in 50 paired HCC tumorous and nontumorous tissues, as well as in five HCC cell lines. Moreover, BATF2 expression in 114 HCC patients was evaluated using immunohistochemistry, and its relationship with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis was investigated. We found that BATF2 expression was significantly reduced in most HCC tumorous tissues, when compared with nontumorous tissues, as well as in the five HCC cell lines. Consistent with these results, the immunohistochemistry revealed that decreased BATF2 expression was present in 63 of the 114 cases and was significantly correlated with age (p = 0.006), tumor size (p = 0.046) and tumor differentiation (p = 0.030). Patients with negative BATF2 expression showed a shorter survival than those with positive expression (p = 0.016). Multivariate analysis revealed that BATF2 expression was an independent predictor of overall survival (p = 0.015). All the data support the hypothesis that BATF2 plays an important role in the progression of HCC and that it may work as a candidate tumor suppressor and a prognostic marker as well as a potential target for treatment.
Prospective study of human papillomavirus and risk of cervical adenocarcinoma
Authors: Dahlström Lisen Arnheim , Ylitalo Nathalie , Sundström Karin , Palmgren Juni , Ploner Alexander , Eloranta Sandra , Sanjeevi Carani B. , Andersson Sonia , Rohan Thomas , Dillner Joakim , Adami Hans‐Olov , Sparén Pär
Published: April 2010

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are established as a major cause of cervical carcinoma. However, causality inference is dependent on prospective evidence showing that exposure predicts risk for future disease. Such evidence is available for squamous cell carcinoma, but not for cervical adenocarcinoma. We followed a population‐based cohort of 994,120 women who participated in cytological screening in Sweden for a median of 6.7 years. Baseline smears from women who developed adenocarcinoma during follow‐up (118 women with in situ disease and 164 with invasive disease) and their individually matched controls (1,434 smears) were analyzed for HPV using PCR. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) of future adenocarcinoma with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Being positive for HPV 16 in the first cytologically normal smear was associated with increased risks for both future adenocarcinoma in situ (OR: 11.0, 95% CI: 2.6–46.8) and invasive adenocarcinoma (OR: 16.0, 95% CI: 3.8–66.7), compared to being negative for HPV 16. Similarly, an HPV 18 positive smear was associated with increased risks for adenocarcinoma in situ (OR: 26.0, 95% CI: 3.5–192) and invasive adenocarcinoma (OR: 28.0, 95% CI: 3.8–206), compared to an HPV 18 negative smear. Being positive for HPV 16/18 in 2 subsequent smears was associated with an infinite risk of both in situ and invasive adenocarcinoma. In conclusion, infections with HPV 16 and 18 are detectable up to at least 14 years before diagnosis of cervical adenocarcinoma. Our data provide prospective evidence that the association of HPV 16/18 with cervical adenocarcinoma is strong and causal.