bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidation of Danzhixiaoyao Wan and Its Constituent Herbs on Antioxidant Activity and Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Production
Authors: Liao Hui , Banbury Linda K. , Leach David N.
Published: January 2007

Danzhixiaoyao Wan (DW) is a common 10 herbs formulation in China for regulating several clinical conditions affecting women. This research tried to explain one of DW′s functions, purging heat, using in vitro pharmacological analyses. The whole formulation and each single herb of DW were compared based on antioxidant activity with the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay, and for their inhibitory effect (IE) on nitric oxide (NO) production by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐activated RAW 264.7 macrophages with the Griess assay. The results showed that DW as a whole formulation had both antioxidant activity and an IE on NO production, while the individual herb component of DW varied in their ORAC values and inhibition of NO production. The ORAC value of the whole DW was 450 μmol TE g−1. The order of antioxidant (ORAC) activity of the single herbs was: Mentha haplocalyx (1352 μmol TE g−1) > Glycyrrhiza uralensis (1184 μmol TE g−1) > Gardenia jasminoides (1129 μmol TE g−1) > Paeonia suffruticosa (465 μmol TE g−1), with the contributions being additive rather than synergistic. The production of nitrite by stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages (unstimulated: 0.5 ± 0.1 μM versus LPS: 38.9 ± 2.3 μM) was significantly inhibited (P < 0.05) by M. haplocalyx, G. jasminoides, Bupleurum chinense and Paeonia lactiflora. DW as a whole had an IE on NO production, but this was not significant. The single herb M. haplocalyx had the highest ORAC value and the highest IE on NO production, followed by G. jasminoides. Both of these herbs have the ‘purging heat’ property in the theory of traditional Chinese medicine and this property of the samples may be correlated with the antioxidant activity and IE on NO production.
Acupuncture for Chronic Pain in Japan: A Review
Authors: Itoh Kazunori , Kitakoji Hiroshi
Published: January 2007

Many Japanese reports of acupuncture and moxibustion for chronic pain are not listed in medical databases such as Medline. Therefore, they are not easily accessible to researchers outside of Japan. To complement existing reviews of acupuncture and moxibustion for chronic pain and to provide more detailed discussion and analysis, we did a literature search using ‘Igaku Chuo Zasshi Wed’ (Japana Centra Revuo Medicina) and ‘Citation Information by National Institute of Information’ covering the period 1978–2006. Original articles and case reports of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment of chronic pain were included. Animal studies, surveys, and news articles were excluded. Two independent reviewers extracted data from located articles in a pre‐defined structured way, and assessed the likelihood of causality in each case. We located 57 papers written in Japanese (20 full papers, 37 case reports). Conditions examined were headache (12 trials), chronic low back pain (9 trials), rheumatoid arthritis (8 trials), temporomandibular dysfunction (8 trials), katakori (8 trials) and others (12 trials). While 23 were described as clinical control trials (CCTs), 11 employed a quasi‐random method. Applying the 5‐point Jadad quality assessment scoring system, the mean score was 1.5 ± 1.3 (SD). Eleven (52%) of the CCTs were conducted to determine a more effective procedure for acupuncture; these compared a certain type of acupuncture with another type of acupuncture or specific additional points. In particular, the trigger point acupuncture was widely used to treat chronic low back pain in Japan. Many reports of chronic pain treatment by acupuncture and moxibustion are listed in Japanese databases. From the data, we conclude that there is limited evidence that acupuncture is more effective than no treatment, and inconclusive evidence that trigger point acupuncture is more effective than placebo, sham acupuncture or standard care.
Molecular determinants for the recruitment of the ubiquitin‐ligase MuRF‐1 onto M‐line titin
Authors: Mrosek Michael , Labeit Dietmar , Witt Stephanie , Heerklotz Heiko , von Castelmur Eleonore , Labeit Siegfried , Mayans Olga
Published: January 2007

Titin forms an intrasarcomeric filament system in vertebrate striated muscle, which has elastic and signaling properties and is thereby central to mechanotransduction. Near its C‐terminus and directly preceding a kinase domain, titin contains a conserved pattern of Ig and FnIII modules (IgA168‐IgA169‐FnIIIA170, hereby A168‐A170) that recruits the E3 ubiquitin‐ligase MuRF‐1 to the filament. This interaction is thought to regulate myofibril turnover and the trophic state of muscle. We have elucidated the crystal structure of A168‐A170, characterized MuRF‐1 variants by circular dichroism (CD) and SEC‐MALS, and studied the interaction of both components by isothermal calorimetry, SPOTS blots, and pull‐down assays. This has led to the identification of the molecular determinants of the binding. A168‐A170 shows an extended, rigid architecture, which is characterized by a shallow surface groove that spans its full length and a distinct loop protrusion in its middle point. In MuRF‐1, a C‐terminal helical domain is sufficient to bind A168‐A170 with high affinity. This helical region predictably docks into the surface groove of A168‐A170. Furthermore, pull‐down assays demonstrate that the loop protrusion in A168‐A170 is a key mediator of MuRF‐1 recognition. Our findings indicate that this region of titin could serve as a target to attempt therapeutic inhibition of MuRF‐1‐mediated muscle turnover, where binding of small molecules to its distinctive structural features could block MuRF‐1 access.—Mrosek, M., Labeit, D., Witt, S., Heerklotz, H., von Castelmur, E., Labeit, S., Mayans, O. Molecular determinants for the recruitment of the ubiquitin‐ligase MuRF‐1 onto M‐line titin FASEB J. 21, 1383–1392 (2007)
A set of polymorphic trinucleotide and tetranucleotide microsatellite markers for the Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus)
Authors: Castaño‐Sanchez C. , Fuji K. , Hayashida K. , Tagami M. , Ozaki A. , Hasegawa O. , Sakamoto T. , Kawai J. , Hayashizaki Y. , Okamoto N.
Published: January 2007

We have developed the first set of trinucleotide and tetranucleotide markers for the Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus. One hundred and sixty‐seven polymorphic trinucleotide and tetranucleotide microsatellites were isolated using clones derived from two libraries. Of almost 200 000 clones analysed, 0.5% presented trinucleotide or tetranucleotide repeat regions. Among the trinucleotide repeats analysed in this study, the most frequent one was (CAG)n and the most common tetranucleotide repeat was (GATA)n. The position of the new markers in the genetic linkage map was determined. Markers were evenly distributed along the P. olivaceus linkage groups, without distinction between the kinds of repeats and library of origin. The markers isolated in this study contribute significantly to the genetic linkage map of the Japanese flounder.
Cloning, mapping and association studies of the ovine ABCG2 gene with facial eczema disease in sheep
Authors: Duncan E. J. , Dodds K. G. , Henry H. M. , Thompson M. P. , Phua S. H.
Published: January 2007

Facial eczema (FE) is a hepatogenous mycotoxicosis in sheep caused by the fungal toxin sporidesmin. Resistance to FE is a multigenic trait. To identify QTL associated with this trait, a scan of ovine chromosomes was implemented. In addition, ABCG2 was investigated as a possible positional candidate gene because of its sequence homology to the yeast PDR5 protein and its functional role as a xenobiotic transporter. The sequence of ovine ABCG2 cDNA was obtained from liver mRNA by RT‐PCR and 5′ and 3′ RACE. The predicted protein sequence shares >80% identity with other mammalian ABCG2 proteins. SNPs were identified within exon 6, exon 9 and intron 4. The intron 4 SNP was used to map ABCG2 to ovine chromosome 6 (OAR6), about 2 cM distal to microsatellite marker OarAE101. Interestingly, this chromosomal region contains weak evidence for a FE QTL detected in a previous genome‐scan experiment. To further investigate the association of ABCG2 with FE, allele frequencies for the three SNPs plus three neighbouring microsatellite markers were tested for differences in sheep selected for and against FE. Significant differences were detected in the allele frequencies of the intronic SNP marker among the resistant, susceptible and control lines. No difference in the levels of ABCG2 expression between the resistant and susceptible animals was detected by Northern hybridisation of liver RNA samples. However, significantly higher expression was observed in sporidesmin‐dosed sheep compared with naïve animals. Our inference is that the ABCG2 gene may play a minor role in FE sensitivity in sheep, at least within these selection lines.
Analysis of gene expression during the onset of muscle hypertrophy in callipyge lambs
Authors: Fleming‐Waddell J. N. , Wilson L. M. , Olbricht G. R. , Vuocolo T. , Byrne K. , Craig B. A. , Tellam R. L. , Cockett N. E. , Bidwell C. A.
Published: January 2007

Thecallipygemutation causes postnatal muscle hypertrophy in heterozygous lambs that inherit a paternalcallipygeallele (+/CLPG). Our hypothesis was that the up‐regulation of one or both of the affected paternally expressed genes (DLK1orPEG11) initiates changes in biochemical and physiological pathways in skeletal muscle to induce hypertrophy. The goal of this study was to identify changes in gene expression during the onset of muscle hypertrophy to identify the pathways that are involved in the expression of the callipyge phenotype. Gene expression was analysed in longissimus dorsi total RNA from lambs at 10, 20, and 30 days of age using the Affymetrix Bovine Expression Array. An average of 40.6% of probe sets on the array was detected in sheep muscle. Data were normalized and analysed using a two‐wayanovafor genotype and age effects with a false discovery rate of 0.10. From theanova, 13 genes were significant for the effect of genotype and 13 were significant for effect of age (P < 0.10). No significant age‐by‐genotype interactions were detected (P > 0.10). Of the 13 genes indicating an effect of genotype, quantitative PCR assays were developed for all of them and tested on a larger group of animals from 10 to 200 days of age. Nine genes had significantly elevated transcript levels in callipyge lambs. These genes includedphosphofructokinase, a putative methyltransferase protein, a cAMP phosphodiesterase, and the transcription factorDNTTIP1.
Aseasonality in the abundance and life history of an ecologically dominant freshwater crab in the Rift Valley, Kenya
Authors: DOBSON MICHAEL , MAGANA ADIEL M. , LANCASTER JILL , MATHOOKO JUDE M.
Published: January 2007

1. Freshwater crabs appear to show at least two alternative life history patterns, which differ in the timing of seasonal reproduction. Reproduction occurs during low flow among temperate lotic species, but during high water levels among wetland species. Crab biomass is often very high and both strategies would lead to spatial and temporal pulses in density and biomass. The life history and reproductive strategy adopted by tropical lotic species is poorly known, however, despite their importance in community and ecosystem dynamics.

2. In this study, we determined annual patterns of life history, density and biomass of a lotic freshwater crab in a small headwater stream in the East African highlands where it maintains high biomass. This crab is an as yet undescribed species of Potamonautes, here referred to as the Chinga crab.

3. Crabs were sampled non‐destructively for 15 months using baited traps and benthic sampling with a Surber sampler. At the end of the study, an intensive hand search was carried out. Each method was biased towards different size classes of crabs and the efficiency of both long‐term methods varied according to water levels in the stream. The intensive search was more effective than benthic sampling, but failed to record the large individuals caught by baited traps.

4. Population density and biomass remained constantly high throughout the study period. Reproduction, as evidenced by the presence of ovigerous females and small free‐living juveniles, also showed no seasonality. As a consequence, the population size structure (size‐frequency distribution) of crabs remained constant throughout the year.

5. The Chinga crab illustrates a third life history pattern, with no clear breeding season, and this may be common among tropical species. This is probably a consequence of the non‐seasonal nature of its habitat: temperature varied little throughout the year and rainfall fluctuations were relatively small. This strategy allows the species to maintain high biomass without seasonal pulses and, perhaps, to dominate community and ecosystem processes.
What do tadpoles really eat? Assessing the trophic status of an understudied and imperiled group of consumers in freshwater habitats
Authors: ALTIG RONALD , WHILES MATT R. , TAYLOR CINDY L.
Published: January 2007

1. Understanding the trophic status of consumers in freshwater habitats is central to understanding their ecological roles and significance. Tadpoles are a diverse and abundant component of many freshwater habitats, yet we know relatively little about their feeding ecology and true trophic status compared with many other consumer groups. While many tadpole species are labelled herbivores or detritivores, there is surprisingly little evidence to support these trophic assignments.

2. Here we discuss shortcomings in our knowledge of the feeding ecology and trophic status of tadpoles and provide suggestions and examples of how we can more accurately quantify their trophic status and ecological significance.

3. Given the catastrophic amphibian declines that are ongoing in many regions of the planet, there is a sense of urgency regarding this information. Understanding the varied ecological roles of tadpoles will allow for more effective conservation of remaining populations, benefit captive breeding programmes, and allow for more accurate predictions of the ecological consequences of their losses.
CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells in human pregnancy: development of a Treg‐MLC‐ELISPOT suppression assay and indications of paternal specific Tregs
Authors: Mjösberg Jenny , Berg Göran , Ernerudh Jan , Ekerfelt Christina
Published: January 2007

The current study was aimed at developing a one‐way mixed leucocyte culture–enzyme‐linked immunospot (MLC‐ELISPOT) assay for the study of CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and applying this method in the study of antifetal immune reactions during human pregnancy. Twenty‐one pregnant women and the corresponding fathers‐to‐be, and 10 non‐pregnant control women and men, participated in the study. CD4+ CD25+ cells were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) by immunomagnetic selection. Maternal/control PBMC were stimulated with paternal or unrelated PBMC in MLC. Secretion of interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) from responder cells, with or without the presence of autologous Treg cells, was analysed by ELISPOT. PBMC from pregnant women showed increased secretion of IL‐4 compared to controls. In pregnant and non‐pregnant controls, Treg cells suppressed IFN‐γ reactivity against paternal and unrelated alloantigens. Interestingly, Treg cells suppressed IL‐4 secretion against paternal but not unrelated alloantigens during pregnancy. We have successfully developed a model for studying Treg cells in antifetal cytokine reactions during pregnancy. Results indicate that Treg cells contribute to strict regulation of both T helper type 1‐like and type 2‐like antifetal immune reactions. Interestingly, T helper type 2‐like cells specific to unrelated alloantigens are able to escape the suppression of Treg cells, which would allow for IL‐4, alongside CD4+ CD25+ Treg cells, to control potentially detrimental IFN‐γ reactions during pregnancy.
Cross‐sectional evaluation of the periapical status and quality of root canal treatment in a selected population of urban Turkish adults
Authors: Sunay H. , Tanalp J. , Dikbas I. , Bayirli G.
Published: January 2007

Aim  To investigate the prevalence of apical periodontitis and the quality of root canal treatment in an adult Turkish population who visited a university dental clinic.

Summary  The periapical status of 8863 teeth belonging to 375 patients was evaluated by two pre‐calibrated observers from panoramic radiographs. The presence of apical periodontitis, and the prevalence and quality of root fillings were recorded. The relationship between the radiographic quality of root fillings and apical periodontitis was examined by chi‐squared statisticl‐analysis.

Of 8863 teeth, 470 (5.3%) had undergone root canal treatment. Forty‐seven per cent of all the subjects had at least one root‐filled tooth. Periapical radiolucencies were visible on 4.2% of teeth examined, with 53.5% of root‐filled teeth presenting apical periodontitis. Ninety‐one per cent of root‐filled teeth with periapical pathosis were determined to have inadequate root fillings. A statistically significant correlation was found between the quality of root fillings and the presence of apical periodontitis (P < 0.05).

Key learning points

• The radiographic quality of root fillings correlated with periapical radiographic signs of pathosis in a selected population of Turkish adults.

• There is a need to improve the standards of root canal treatment in the study population.
Computer Simulation on Onboard Chilling and Freezing of Albacore Tuna
Authors: ZHAO YANYUN , KOLBE EDWARD , CRAVEN CORMAE
Published: January 2007

We extended the application of a commercial finite‐element computer program package, PDEase, to the simulation of chilling and freezing of albacore tuna. Tuna was described as an infinite elliptical cylinder, where nonuniform boundary conditions present complications in computer simulation. Equations were developed to define the elliptical boundary. Temperature‐dependent thermal properties and time‐dependent ambient temperature conditions were used. Onboard experiments were conducted to measure the core temperature of individual tuna in slush ice tanks and in air‐blast and brine‐spray freezing systems. Measured time‐temperature profiles were compared with those of the simulation. Predicted chilling and freezing curves agreed with experiments ±3 to 6%. This program enables testing of important fish industry operation strategies.
Meat Color and Biochemical Characteristics of Unacceptable Dark‐colored Broiler Chicken Carcasses
Authors: BOULIANNE M. , KING A. J.
Published: January 2007

Spectrocolorimetry, pH, TBARS, total pigment and myoglobin were measured in normal and abnormally dark‐colored broiler chicken breast muscle. Analyses of L*, a* and b* values revealed that a* values were highly sensitive and specific to differentiate normal from dark‐colored carcasses and thus could be used as a potential diagnostic method for carcass classification at slaughter. Color characteristics (L*, a*, and b* values), pH, total pigment, myoglobin, and iron concentrations were all significantly different in dark‐colored muscle when compared with normal muscle. TBARS values and percentage moisture for the two groups were not different.
Discoloration of Fresh Pork as Related to Muscle and Display Conditions
Authors: ZHU L. G. , BREWER M. S.
Published: January 2007

Pale, soft, exudative (PSE), normal, and dark, firm, dry (DFD) pork was held 7 days at 4°C under light or dark then color was evaluated instrumentally and visually. Change in reflectance (R630‐R580) was used to estimate color changes due to oxymyoglobin. PSE pork was lighter (high L*) than normal and DFD pork, but did not change over time. An increase in a* and R630‐R580 occurred the first day for normal and DFD, but not for PSE samples. A subsequent increase in hue angle and decrease in R630‐R580 (loss of redness) occurred in PSE and normal, but not in DFD samples. Changes in hue angle and R630‐R580 were more rapid in PSE than in normal samples. Light exposure accelerated all changes except L*. Visual redness inversely correlated with L* value.
Extractive Components of the Adductor Muscle of Japanese Baking Scallop and Changes During Refrigerated Storage
Authors: WONGSO SUWIDJI , YAMANAKA HIDEAKI
Published: January 2007

The changes in concentration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and related compounds were examined as well as free amino acids, organic acids, betaines, glycogen and glycolytic metabolites in the Japanese baking scallop (Pecten albicans) during storage at 0° and 5°C. High amounts of free amino acids and glycine betaine were found. Adenosine monophosphate, inosine and hypoxanthine accumulated during storage, but inosine monophosphate was not detected. Hypoxanthine concentration was considered more appropriate as a freshness index than K value. Taurine, glycine and arginine were the main free amino acids and accounted for 91% of the total immediately after death. D‐lactate increased, but no substantial change of L‐lactate was detected during storage.
Purified NADPH‐Sulfite Reductase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae Effects on Quality of Ozonated Mackerel Surimi
Authors: Jiang Shann‐Tzong , Ho Ming‐Lang , Jiang Sheng‐Ho , Chen Hsing‐Chen
Published: January 2007

The NADPH‐sulfite reductase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae was purified to electrophoretic homogeneity by ammonium sulfate fractionation, DEAE Sephacel, Sephacryl S‐300 and DEAE Sephadex A‐50 chromatography. Optimal pH was 7.3 and temperature 25°C. It was inhibited by IAA, PCMPS, PMSF, NEM, PCMB, cyanide and most divalent metal ions. For the ozonated mackerel surimi ground with purified reductase, the reactive SH increased from 2.29∞105 to 4.46∞105mole/g and gel strength from 256.7 to 360.5g·cm. According to SDS‐PAGE, the recovery of myosin heavy chain was observed on the ozonated mackerel surimi with addition of NADPH‐sulfite reductase.
Protein and Amino Acid Profiles in Natural and Artificial Shark Fins using Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: CHOU SHIN‐SHOU , SU SHU‐CHU , SHIAU HUEI‐WEN , HWANG DENG‐FWU , YU PEI‐CHIN , LEE SHU‐CHI
Published: January 2007

The potential utility of capillary electrophoresis (CE) for differentiation between natural and artificial shark fins was established. Three major protein components (peaks I‐III) of shark fins were well‐separated and used as parameters for differentiation between natural and artificial shark fins. The height ratio of protein peak III to protein peak I was higher in natural shark fins than that in artificial products. Further, the profile of amino acids in natural dried shark fins was somewhat different from that in artificial samples. The level of tyrosine was especially high (5.11‐8.11%) in natural dried shark fins, but low or not detectable (0‐0.22%) in artificial samples.
Maillard Reaction in Glassy Low‐Moisture Solids as Affected by Buffer Type and Concentration
Authors: BELL LEONARD N. , WHITE KAREN L. , CHEN YIN‐HUI
Published: January 2007

This study's objectives were to investigate the effects of buffer type and concentration on the kinetics of the Maillard reaction in low‐moisture solids. Glucose loss and brown pigment formation were evaluated in low‐moisture glassy systems obtained by lyophilizing solutions containing various concentrations of phosphate or citrate buffer at pH 7 and 25°C. Rate constants for glucose loss decreased as buffer concentration increased, suggesting that a change in the system pH had occurred. Rate constants for browning increased with increasing phosphate buffer concentration and decreased with increasing citrate concentration. Phosphate buffer appeared to catalyze later pathways of the Maillard reaction.
Hydration of Whey Powders as Determined by Different Methods
Authors: LAMIOT E. , POULIOT M. , LEBEUF Y. , PAQUIN P.
Published: January 2007

Four methods for evaluating water hydration of 15 whey derivative powders were compared, and results are discussed with respect to the chemical composition of the powders. Hydration capacities between 0.21 and 4.64 mL water/g of powder were obtained, depending on the method used. The filtration/centrifugation method gave the highest hydration capacity, whereas the paste‐water retention method gave the lowest. The Baumann test and the paste‐water retention method were well correlated with protein and lactose content of the powders, enabling differentiation between hydration capacities of whey protein concentrates (35% proteins) and electrodialyzed whey powders (12% proteins). Reliable characterization of hydration required a combination of methods.
Frozen Hake Fillets Quality as Related to Texture and Viscosity By Mechanical Methods
Authors: BARROSO MARTA , CARECHE MERCEDES , BARRIOS LAURA , BORDERIAS A. JAVIER
Published: January 2007

This work aimed to develop a textural quality classification function for frozen hake fillets using instrumental measurements. Frozen hake fillets were stored to provide a wide range of textures. Raw and cooked fillets were analyzed for texture using Kramer and Warner‐Bratzler shear cells and a puncture device. Apparent viscosity, dimethylamine and protein solubility were also measured. Principal Component Analysis indicated three factors accounted for 86.5% of the variance. Four clusters were found, ranging from excellent quality (low texture, high viscosity) to very poor (high texture, low viscosity). Parameters required for classification were viscosity, maximum force from Kramer and maximum force and energy from the puncture test.
Effects of Long‐Grain Rough Rice Storage History on End‐Use Quality
Authors: DANIELS M. J. , MARKS B. P. , SIEBENMORGEN T. J. , MCNEW R.W. , MEULLENET J. F.
Published: January 2007

Rough rice (cv. Cypress) from the 1995 season was harvested, dried, and stored in laboratory‐scale studies. Treatments included pre‐drying conditions, drying conditions, storage temperatures, and storage durations. Temporary wet storage prior to drying affected cooking properties (p<0.005) and peak viscosity (p<0.005). Drying treatments affected head rice yield (p<0.05), cooking properties (p<0.001), and peak viscosity (p<0.05). Storage temperature was related (p<0.05) to cooking properties and peak viscosity via a second‐order relationship. Head rice yield and cooking properties were also affected (p<0.05) by storage duration.
Corn Grits Particle Size and Distribution Effects on the Characteristics of Expanded Extrudates
Authors: DESRUMAUX A. , BOUVIER J.M. , BURRI J.
Published: January 2007

The effects of corn particle size and distribution on the ex trusion‐cooking process was studied. Extrusion cooking was carried out in a twin‐screw corotating extruder. The effects of particle characteristics were studied by analyzing process responses on‐line, by expansion indices, mechanical (puncture test) and structural (computerized image analysis) prop erties of the extrudate. An increase in particle size for a given biochemical composition gave extrudates that were harder, with a modified expansion and lower cell density. The par ticle size distribution in the range studied was not significant. Correlations were found between expansion indices and process responses.
Nutrient‐based Corn and Soy Products by Twin‐screw Extrusion
Authors: KONSTANCE R. P. , ONWULATA C. I. , SMITH P.W. , LU D. , TUNICK M. H. , STRANGE E. D. , HOLSINGER V. H.
Published: January 2007

Blends were developed to provide 20% protein, 12% fat, 68% carbohydrate and 8% moisture. High protein soy products (full fat flakes, protein isolate and/or concentrate) were formulated with corn meal and soybean oil to provide high protein and fat. The blends were extruded to provide pre‐cooked foods that could be reconstituted at 40°C to a porridge or gruel, eliminating prolonged cooking or degradation of heat labile nutrients. Two types of soy isolate and concentrate were evaluated under extrusion temperatures from 100 to 130°C and feed moistures 8.5 to 18%. The extrusion of lower valued concentrates at 100 to 115°C with moisture from 12 to 18% produced a precooked mix that was high in nutrients and contained the most available lysine.
High Hydrostatic Pressure Effects on Vegetable Structure
Authors: PRÉSTAMO G. , ARROYO G.
Published: January 2007

Cryo‐fracture scanning electron microscopy revealed the changes that cauliflower and spinach leaves undergo after treatment with high hydrostatic pressure. High pressure changed cell permeability and enabled movement of water and metabolites from inside to outside of the cell. The ultrastructure showed that parenchyma organization disappeared in spinach leaf and cavity formation occurred after treatment. However, cauliflower exhibited a firm structure with a soaked appearance and would be more suitable than spinach for high hydrostatic pressure treatment.
Heat Distribution in Industrial‐scale Water Cascading (Rotary) Retort
Authors: SMOUT C. , LOEY A. VAN , HENDRICKX M.
Published: January 2007

A heat distribution study was performed in an industrial‐scale 4‐basket water cascading rotary retort under fully loaded operating conditions. Detailed analysis of the temperature distribution basket‐by‐basket was followed by an evaluation of the temperature distribution throughout the retort (at 0, 4 and 7 rpm). Finally, a heating rate distribution study, using silicone elastomer food‐simulants, was carried out to evaluate heat transfer uniformity throughout the retort. Results revealed that for static processes the slowest heating zone was located at the bottom of the basket at the back of the retort, whereas for rotary processes the center of this basket was heated slowest. Heating rate distribution results indicated uniform heat transfer throughout the retort.
Model for Combined Effects of Temperature, pH and Water Activity on Thermal Inactivation of Bacillus cereus Spores
Authors: GAILLARD S. , LEGUERINEL I. , MAFART P.
Published: January 2007

Initially, the effect of water activity (aw) on heat resistance of Bacillus cereus spores (decimal reduction time) was investigated. A linear relationship was found between log D and 1‐aw. The combined effects of temperature (85‐105°C), pH (4.5‐6.5) and water activity (0.80‐1) were then studied. A four parameter model was fitted to the data. This model appeared to be parsimonious with each parameter having a biological significance. Interactions between factors were observed but they accounted for <2.4% of the total variation and they were not taken into account by the model.
Survival of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Apple Cider as Affected by Dimethyl Dicarbonate, Sodium Bisulfite, and Sodium Benzoate
Authors: FISHER TOMEKA L. , GOLDEN DAVID A.
Published: January 2007

Survival of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in apple cider containing no preservatives, 0.025% dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC), 0.045% sodium benzoate (SB), 0.0046% sodium bisulfite (NaS; 65.5% sulfur dioxide), or a combination of NaS and SB (NaS/SB) and stored at 4, 10, and 25°C was evaluated. E. coli O157:H7 survived for up to 18 days at 4,10, and 25°C in unpreserved apple cider. At 4 and 10°C, DMDC was most efficient at inactivating E. coli O157:H7, generally followed by NaS/SB SB, and NaS (p<0.05). E coli O157:H7 was more resistant to preservatives at 4°C than at 25°C (P < 0.05). E. coli O157:H7 was sublethally injured in cider containing preservatives, and to a lesser extent, in unpreserved cider. Generally, injury was more pronounced in cider containing DMDC, followed by NaS/SB, SB, and NaS (p<0.05).
Bacilli Spoilage in Part‐baked and Rebaked Brown Soda Bread
Authors: LEUSCHNER R.G.K. , O'CALLAGHAN M.J.A. , ARENDT E.K.
Published: January 2007

Brown soda bread had a pH of 7‐9 depending on the sodium bicarbonate concentration. Part‐baked bread developed ropiness after two days at room temperature. Bacillus subtilis, B. pumilus and B. licheniformis were isolated and their spores displayed D‐values in bread dough of 14, 10 and 56 min at 100°C. Germination and growth was examined in broth at pH 6‐10 and at 4°, 20°, 30° and 37°C. No growth was observed at 4°C and at pH 10. Rebaking of the part‐baked bread heat activated particularly B. licheniformis spores.
Light‐Oxidized Flavor Development and Vitamin A Degradation in Chocolate Milk
Authors: CHAPMAN K.W. , ROSENBERRY L.C. , BANDLER D.K. , BOOR K.J.
Published: January 2007

Samples of several chocolate milk formulations were exposed to light to determine if the components masked and/or prevented light‐oxidized flavors or prevented photodegradation of vitamin A. Chocolate flavor added either before or after light exposure masked light‐oxidized flavor (p<0.05). Neither carrageenan nor chocolate color prevented development of light‐oxidized flavor. Vitamin A degradation was reduced by the addition of carrageenan alone or in combination with chocolate dairy powder (chocolate flavor and color), chocolate color or chocolate flavor (p<0.05).
The fatigue experience of haemodialysis patients in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Bih‐O , Lin Chiu‐Chu , Chaboyer Wendy , Chiang Chiu‐Ling , Hung Chuan‐Chuan
Published: January 2007

Aims and objectives.  To expand the theoretical understanding of fatigue, this study used in‐depth interview to explore the fatigue experience from haemodialysis patients’ perspectives.

Background.  Fatigue is a common symptom experienced by the people with chronic diseases including those with renal failure requiring haemodialysis.

Methods.  Data were collected in a haemodialysis unit of a hospital in South Taiwan. Purposive samples of 14 participants were interviewed in‐depth. Colaizzi's methods were used to analyse transcripts of the interviews.

Results.  Ten themes were delineated and classified into three domains. The first domain ‘physical fatigue’ consists of four themes: (1) habitual fatigue, (2) experiencing the uraemic symptoms (3) suffering from sleeping disturbance, (4) insufficient physical energy. The second domain ‘affective fatigue’ contains three themes: (5) detesting long‐term treatment, (6) perceiving depression (7) and feeling exhausted. The third domain ‘cognitive fatigue’ includes three themes: (8) regretting lost cognition, (9) intentional isolation and (10) coping with fatigue.

Conclusions.  The findings identify that fatigue is a multi‐dimensional concept. By understanding the various aspects of fatigue, nurses may be better able to plan and provide fatigue‐relieving strategies for haemodialysis patients.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The results can provide a direction for interventional studies designed to reduce the patients’ fatigue.
Evaluation of a falls prevention programme in an acute tertiary care hospital
Authors: Williams Teresa A , King Gail , Hill Anne‐Marie , Rajagopal Maha , Barnes Tina , Basu Anita , Pascoe Graeme , Birkett Katherine , Kidd Heather
Published: January 2007

Aims and objectives.  To evaluate a systematic, coordinated approach to limit the severity and minimize the number of falls in an acute care hospital.

Background.  Patient falls are a significant cause of preventable injury and death, particularly in older patients. Best practice principles mandate that hospitals identify those patients at risk of falling and implement interventions to prevent or minimize them.

Methods.  A before and after design was used for the study. All patients admitted to three medical wards and a geriatric evaluation management unit were enrolled over a six‐month period. Patients’ risk of falling was assessed using a falls risk assessment tool and appropriate interventions implemented using a falls care plan. Data related to the number and severity of falls were obtained from the Australian Incident Monitoring System database used at the study site.

Results.  In this study, 1357 patient admissions were included. According to their risk category, 37% of patients (n = 496) were grouped as low risk (score = 1–10), 58% (n = 774) medium risk (score = 11–20) and 5% (n = 63) high risk (score = 21–33) for falls. The incidence of falls (per average occupied bed day) was eight per 1000 bed days for the study period. Compared with the same months in 2002/2003, there was a significant reduction in falls from 0·95 to 0·80 (95% CI for the difference −0·14 to −0·16, P < 0·001).

Conclusion.  We evaluated a systematic, coordinated approach to falls management that included a falls risk assessment tool and falls care plan in the acute care setting. Although a significant reduction in falls was found in this study, it could not be attributed to any specific interventions.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Preventing falls where possible is essential. Assessment of risk and use of appropriate interventions can reduce the incidence of falls.
Non‐blanchable erythema as an indicator for the need for pressure ulcer prevention: a randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: Vanderwee Katrien , Grypdonck Maria , Defloor Tom
Published: January 2007

Aims and objectives.  To evaluate whether postponing preventive measures until non‐blanchable erythema appears will actually lead to an increase in incidence of pressure ulcers (grades 2–4) when compared with the standard risk assessment method.

Background.  To distinguish patients at risk for pressure ulcers from those not at risk, risk assessment scales are recommended. These scales have limited predictive validity. The prevention of further deterioration of non‐blanchable erythema (grade 1 pressure ulcer) instead of the standard way of assigning prevention could be a possible new approach.

Design.  Randomized‐controlled trial.

Methods.  Patients admitted to surgical, internal or geriatric wards (n = 1617) were included. They were randomly assigned to an experimental and a control group. In the experimental group (n = 826), prevention was started when non‐blanchable erythema appeared, in the control group (n = 791) when the Braden score was <17 or when non‐blanchable erythema appeared. In both groups, patients received identical prevention, either by using a polyethylene–urethane mattress in combination with turning every four hours or by using an alternating pressure air mattress. Pressure points were observed daily and classified according to the four grades of the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel. The Braden scale was scored every three days.

Results.  In the experimental group, 16% of patients received preventive measures, in the control group 32%. The pressure ulcer incidence (grades 2–4) was not significantly different between the experimental (6·8%) and control group (6·7%).

Conclusion.  Significantly fewer patients need preventive measures when prevention is postponed until non‐blanchable erythema appears and those patients did not develop more pressure ulcers than patients who received prevention based on the standard risk assessment method.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Using the appearance of non‐blanchable erythema to allocate preventive measures leads to a considerable reduction of patients in need of prevention without resulting in an increase in pressure ulcers.
Early mobilization of acute stroke patients
Authors: Arias Monica , Smith Lorraine N
Published: January 2007

Objective.  To examine the early mobilization of acute stroke patients.

Design.  Postal survey.

Setting.  Thirteen health boards in Scotland.

Participants.  Ninety‐nine health professionals of whom 39 were doctors, 39 nurses and 21 physiotherapists.

Results.  There was a lack of understanding and agreement across the three professions in terms of what was meant by ‘early mobilization’. Further, the duration, frequency, intensity, risk/benefits and activities associated with early mobilization are undescribed despite clinical guidelines urging its use. Multi‐disciplinary decision making regarding early mobilization was not self‐evident.

Conclusions.  (i) An evidence‐base for early mobilization is required along with agreement on what physiological monitoring should be undertaken while early mobilization is on going;

(ii) Health professionals need a greater awareness of the evidence linking stroke complications with patient immobilization and in particular in relation to pressure sores, painful shoulder and falls;

(iii) The clinical decision to mobilize an acute stroke patient early should be made explicitly within a multi‐disciplinary acute stroke team;

(iv) There is an absolute need for further research into early mobilization in terms of intensity, duration, frequency, risks and benefits in relations to types of stroke of early mobilization.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Early mobilization in acute stroke care is recommended in a range of European, American and UK policy guidelines as a strategy to minimize or prevent complications. However the evidence‐base to support early mobilization in acute stroke is missing. Health professionals require a research‐based approach in order to deliver safe and effective early mobilization to acute stroke patients.
Custodians’ viewpoints and experiences from their child's visit to an ill or injured nearest being cared for at an adult intensive care unit
Authors: Knutsson Susanne EM , Bergbom Ingegerd L
Published: January 2007

Aims and objectives.  To describe custodians’ experiences of their child's visit to an ill/injured nearest being cared for at an adult intensive care unit (ICU), their thoughts about the visit in relation to the child's health/well being and who initiated the visit.

Background.  Custodians can feel undecided about whether to allow their children to visit the ICU or not. They wonder how important it is for the child to visit, as well as the consequences, and attempt to protect the child from information/experiences that could provoke anxiety or threaten the child's health.

Design.  Quantitative and descriptive.

Method.  Thirty custodians answered a questionnaire.

Results.  It was mainly custodians and their children and not staff who initiated the children's visits. Many children were not informed by staff and the responsibility lay instead with the custodians. The importance of giving children adequate information before, during and after the visit was pointed out. The custodians reported that their child's reactions to the visit differed, i.e. reactions reflecting happiness but also sadness; the visit was good for the child, increased awareness of the nearest's condition and appreciation of the hospital staff and their work; if the visit did not take place the child would be left with thoughts and conjectures; their children were not frightened when they saw the equipment and instead they became curious; older children were more focused on the patient while younger children were interested in both the equipment and the patient. Many children asked questions/made comments during the visit. Many custodians were of the opinion that visiting is not a risk to future health and well being.

Conclusions.  This issue must be addressed and discussed and strategies need to be developed to improve the nurses’ obligation to involve visiting children in the care that is/should be provided to a member of the patient's family.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses need to take more initiative when discussing children's visits with the custodians. Nurses also need to discuss how to meet, inform, support and care for visiting children and their custodians in relation to health and well being. Recommendations/guidelines about children visiting that take both the patient's and child's needs into consideration needs to be developed based on scientific knowledge. Findings from this study may draw attention to children visiting ICUs and encourage nurses to discuss children visiting with custodians and to develop family‐centred care at the ICU that includes children.
A quasi‐experimental study on a community‐based stroke prevention programme for clients with minor stroke
Authors: Sit Janet WH , Yip Vera YB , Ko Stanley KK , Gun Amy PC , Lee Judy SH
Published: January 2007

Aim.  The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a community‐based stroke prevention programme in (1) improving knowledge about stroke; (2) improving self‐health‐monitoring practice; (3) maintaining behavioural changes when adopting a healthy lifestyle for stroke prevention.

Background.  People with minor stroke (or transient ischaemic attack) tend to under‐estimate the long‐term impact of this on their health. The challenge for nurses is to prevent subsequent strokes by finding ways to promote and sustain appropriate behaviours. Educational intervention is of paramount importance in equipping those at risk with relevant knowledge and self‐care strategies for secondary stroke prevention.

Design.  This study adopted a quasi‐experimental design.

Method.  One hundred and ninety subjects were recruited, of whom 147 (77 in the intervention group and 70 in the control group) completed the study. Data were obtained at three time points: baseline (T0); one week after (T1) and three months after (T2) the intervention. The intervention programme consisted of eight weekly two‐hour sessions, with the aims of improving the participants’ awareness of their own health signals and of actively involving them in self‐care management of their own health for secondary stroke prevention.

Results.  Significant positive changes were found among participants of the intervention group in the knowledge on stroke warning signs (P < 0·001); treatment seeking response in case of a stroke (P < 0·001); medication compliance (P < 0·001); self blood pressure monitoring (P < 0·001) as well as lifestyle modification of dietary habits (reduction in salted food intake, P = 0·004). No significant improvement was found in walking exercise participation in the intervention group, yet a significant decrease was detected among the control group.

Conclusion.  This study found a three‐month‐sustained effect of positive changes in knowledge and skill from participants who undertook a nurse‐led community‐based stroke prevention programme.

Relevance to clinical practice:  Effective educational intervention by professional nurses helped clients integrate their learned knowledge into their real‐life practice. This empowering, that is, the taking of responsibility by clients for their own self‐care management on a daily basis, affirms that patient education has moved beyond teaching people facts.
The efficacy of acupressure for decreasing agitated behaviour in dementia: a pilot study
Authors: Yang Man‐Hua , Wu Shiao‐Chi , Lin Jaung‐Geng , Lin Li‐Chan
Published: January 2007

Aims and objectives.  To investigate the efficacy of acupressure in decreasing agitated behaviours associated with dementia.

Background.  Agitated behaviour is found in nearly half of all patients who have dementia. The presence of these behaviours increases the likelihood of injury, weakness, dehydration and lack of sleep and contributes to caregiver frustration and fatigue.

Design.  This pilot study was designed with subjects receiving both acupressure and the control treatment. Each subject served as his or her own control. Subjects received four weeks of acupressure protocols; to avoid a carry‐over effect there was a treatment‐free period of one week. Subjects then were visited by one of the investigators for a six‐week period.

Methods.  Participants were recruited from a nursing home caring specifically for patients with dementia. Twenty of the 31 subjects (64·5%) completed the study, while 11 were discharged or hospitalized. All the subjects were assigned to an experimental protocol and had a six‐week acupressure treatment program. Baseline data were collected in the first week. Individual treatment sessions began at the second week of the study and lasted 15 minutes, twice a day, five days a week for four weeks. After a treatment‐free period of one week, all the subjects served as controls undergoing a four‐week control protocol consisting of companionship and conversation.

Results.  Comparison between the control and experimental phases indicated significant differences between the two groups on all outcome measures (Cohen–Mansfield Agitation Inventory, daily agitation records about physical attack, verbal and non‐verbal attack and non‐physical attack) with better results found during the acupressure phase.

Conclusions.  Acupressure is recommended as an efficacious and non‐intrusive method for decreasing the agitation behaviours in patients with dementia.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Conducting the acupressure treatment takes 15 minutes. It could provide caregivers with a viable alternative to deal with patients with dementia.