bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Binding affinities and interactions among different heat shock element types and heat shock factors in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Mittal Dheeraj , Enoki Yasuaki , Lavania Dhruv , Singh Amanjot , Sakurai Hiroshi , Grover Anil 
Published: July 2011

Binding of heat shock factors (Hsfs) to heat shock elements (HSEs) leads to transcriptional regulation of heat shock genes. Genome‐wide, 953 rice genes contain perfect‐type, 695 genes gap‐type and 1584 genes step‐type HSE sequences in their 1‐kb promoter region. The rice genome contains 13 class A, eight class B and four class C Hsfs (OsHsfs) and has OsHsf26 (which is of variant type) genes. Chemical cross‐linking analysis of in vitro synthesized OsHsf polypeptides showed formation of homotrimers of OsHsfA2c, OsHsfA9 and OsHsfB4b proteins. Binding analysis of polypeptides with oligonucleotide probes containing perfect‐, gap‐, and step‐type HSE sequences showed that OsHsfA2c, OsHsfA9 and OsHsfB4b differentially recognize various model HSEs as a function of varying reaction temperatures. The homomeric form of OsHsfA2c and OsHsfB4b proteins was further noted by the bimolecular fluorescence complementation approach in onion epidermal cells. In yeast two‐hybrid assays, OsHsfB4b showed homomeric interaction as well as distinct heteromeric interactions with OsHsfA2a, OsHsfA7, OsHsfB4c and OsHsf26. Transactivation activity was noted in OsHsfA2c, OsHsfA2d, OsHsfA9, OsHsfC1a and OsHsfC1b in yeast cells. These differential patterns pertaining to binding with HSEs and protein–protein interactions may have a bearing on the cellular functioning of OsHsfs under a range of different physiological and environmental conditions.Structured digital abstract
HSFA2C binds to HSFA2C by cross‐linking study (View interaction)
HSFA2Cphysically interacts with HSFA2C by bimolecular fluorescence complementation(View interaction)
HSFB4B physically interacts with HSFB4B by bimolecular fluorescence complementation(View interaction)
HSFA2A physically interacts with HSFB4B by two hybrid (View interaction)
HSFB4B binds to HSFB4B by cross‐linking study (View interaction)
HSFB4B physically interacts with HSF26 by two hybrid (View interaction)
HSFA9 binds to HSFA9 by cross‐linking study (View interaction)
HSFA7 physically interacts with HSFB4B by two hybrid (View interaction)
HSFB4B physically interacts with HSFB4C by two hybrid (View interaction)
HSFB4B physically interacts with HSFB4B by two hybrid (View interaction)
Crystal Structures of Candida albicans Dihydrofolate Reductase Bound to Propargyl‐Linked Antifolates Reveal the Flexibility of Active Site Loop Residues Critical for Ligand Potency and Selectivity
Authors: Paulsen Janet L. , Bendel Stephen D. , Anderson Amy C. 
Published: July 2011

Candida albicans and Candida glabrata cause fungal bloodstream infections that are associated with significant mortality. As part of an effort to develop potent and selective antifolates that target dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) from Candida species, we report three ternary crystal structures of C. albicans DHFR (CaDHFR) bound to novel propargyl‐linked analogs. Consistent with earlier modeling results, these structures show that hydrophobic pockets in the binding site may be exploited to increase ligand potency. The crystal structures also confirm that loop residues Thr 58‐ Phe 66, which flank the active site and influence ligand potency and selectivity, adopt multiple conformations. To aid the development of a dual Candida spp. inhibitor, three new crystal structures of C. glabrata DHFR (CgDHFR) bound to similar ligands as those bound in the ternary structures of CaDHFR are also reported here. Loop residues 58–66 in CgDHFR and human DHFR are 1 and 3 Å closer to the folate binding site, respectively, than loop residues in CaDHFR, suggesting that a properly size ligand could be a potent and selective dual inhibitor of CaDHFR and CgDHFR.
Revisiting Goffman’s postulates on participant statuses in verbal interaction
Authors: Dynel Marta 
Published: July 2011

AbstractGoffman’s work on participation marks a watershed in linguistic studies on speaker and hearer roles in interaction, both in everyday conversations and in media discourse. Goffman is thus widely credited for having expanded the dyadic (speaker – hearer) model of communication. Albeit not elaborated in detail, his classification of speaker roles, as well as listeners, the latter divided into ratified hearers (addressed and unaddressed recipients) and unratified hearers (bystanders, overhearers and eavesdroppers), is the departure point for various classifications of participants propounded by contemporary researchers. This article proposes an exegesis of Goffman’s work on participation, typified by talk, a strand which reverberates in his essays devoted to distinct topics, with special attention paid to non‐speaking participant statuses. Only a bird’s‐eye‐view approach to Goffman’s writings guarantees a full picture of his conceptualisation of multi‐party verbal encounters.
Concentration of Soy Protein Isolate Affects Starch‐Based Confections’ Texture, Sensory, and Storage Properties
Authors: Siegwein Alexander M. , Vodovotz Yael , Fisher Erica L. 
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  The effects of increasing soy protein isolate concentration on the physico‐chemical properties of starch‐based grape confectionery gels were investigated using thermal, textural, and sensory analyses. Soy protein isolate decreased hardness, cohesiveness, and gumminess, demonstrating potential as a texture modifier. Increasing soy protein concentration progressively decreased the elastic properties of the starch network demonstrated by a lower G’‐G” crossover frequency. High levels of soy protein also created a more homogeneous water population, one which was lost at lower temperatures compared to standard confections. An improvement in taste and texture acceptability of the confections upon addition of soy protein isolate was found by sensory analysis. Finally, physico‐chemical properties were compared up to 20 d of storage at ambient temperature. Soy‐containing confections demonstrated lower gumminess and cohesiveness during the entire storage period but a significant increase in hardness after 20 d of storage.Practical Application:  Soy protein isolate imparted soft texture to starch‐based confections on a concentration‐dependent basis. Increasing soy protein isolate concentration decreased elastic properties of the starch network in starch confections and significantly improved flavor and texture. Gumminess and cohesiveness of soy protein isolate confection was lower during 20 d of storage.
Toward the Antioxidant and Chemical Characterization of Mycorrhizal Mushrooms from Northeast Portugal
Authors: Reis Filipa S. , Heleno Sandrina A. , Barros Lillian , Sousa Maria João , Martins Anabela , Santos‐Buelga Celestino , Ferreira Isabel C.F.R. 
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Mushrooms are widely appreciated all over the world for their nutritional properties and pharmacological value as sources of important bioactive compounds. Mycorrhizal macrofungi associate with plant roots constituting a symbiotic relationship. This symbiosis could influence the production of secondary metabolites, including bioactive compounds. We focused on the evaluation of antioxidant potential and chemical composition of mycorrhizal mushrooms species from Northeast Portugal: Amanita caesarea, Amanita muscaria, Amanita pantherina, Chroogomphus fulmineus, Cortinarius anomalus, Cortinarius collinitus, Cortinarius violaceus, Lactarius quietus, Lactarius volemus, Russula sardonia, Suillus luteus, and Tricholoma ustale. A similar profile of metabolites was observed in the studied species with the order sugars > fat > ascorbic acid > phenolic compounds > tocopherols. Nevertheless, the samples revealed different compositions: prevalence of sugars in L. volemus, fat and ascorbic acid in A. muscaria, phenolic compounds in C. anomalus and tocopherols, and antioxidant activity in S. luteus.Practical Application:  Chemical characterization of 12 mycorrhizal mushrooms was achieved. They are sources of nutraceuticals, such as sugars and fatty acids, and contain bioactive compounds, such as vitamins and phenolic acids. Edible species can be incorporated in diets as sources of antioxidants, while nonedible species can be explored as sources of bioactive metabolites.
Antifungal Activity of 2 Lactic Acid Bacteria of the Weissella Genus Isolated from Food
Authors: Ndagano Dora , Lamoureux Thibaut , Dortu Carine , Vandermoten Sophie , Thonart Philippe 
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  In the present study, a total of 116 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains isolated from Mill flour and fermented cassava were screened for their antifungal activity. Three strains among 116 were selected for their strongest inhibitory activity against food molds. These 3 strains were Lactobacillus plantarum VE56, Weissella cibaria FMF4B16, and W. paramesenteroides LC11. The compounds responsible for the antifungal activity were investigated. The strains displayed an inhibitory activity against targeted molds at acidic pH. However, the influence of organic acids was rejected according to the calculated minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). Antifungal compounds were investigated in the cell‐free supernatants and phenyllactic acid (PLA) was detected in different amounts with a maximal concentration for Lb. plantarum VE56 (0.56 mM). Hydroxy fatty acid, such as 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methylpentanoic acid, was also produced and involved in the inhibitory activity of Lb. plantarum VE56 and W. paramesenteroides LC11. Antifungal LAB are known to produce PLA and 3‐hydroxy fatty acids and other organic acids with antifungal activity. This short communication focuses on antifungal activity from Weissella genus. The antifungal activity was attributed to antifungal compounds identified such as PLA, 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methylpentanoic acid, and other organic acids. Nevertheless, the concentration produced in the cell‐free supernatant was too low to compare to their MIC, suggesting that the inhibitory activity was caused by a synergy of these different compounds.Practical Application:  Antifungal LAB are interesting to prevent food spoilage in fermented food and prolong their shelf life. In this way, chemical preservatives could be avoided and replaced by natural preservatives.
Anthocyanins Remain Stable during Commercial Blackcurrant Juice Processing
Authors: Woodward Gary M. , McCarthy Danielle , Pham‐Thanh Danh , Kay Colin D. 
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  It remains important to establish the stability of anthocyanins throughout commercial processing in order to maintain the bioactivity of the processed food/s. The present study aimed to assess the recovery and formation of anthocyanins and their free phenolic acid degradation products during the commercial processing of blackcurrant juice concentrate. A bench‐scale processing model was also established to allow for alteration of predefined parameters to identify where commercial processes could be modified to influence anthocyanin yield. No significant loss in anthocyanins was observed throughout the commercial processing of blackcurrants, from whole berry through milling, to pectin hydrolysis and sodium bisulphite addition (P ≥ 0.7). No significant loss in anthocyanins was observed following the subsequent processing of pressed juice, through pasteurization, decantation, filtration, and concentration (P ≥ 0.9). Similarly, the bench‐scale model showed no significant losses in anthocyanin content except during pasteurization (22%± 0.7%, P < 0.001). In the full‐factorial Design of Experiment model analysis, only sodium bisulphite concentration had an impact on anthocyanin recovery, which resulted in an increase (23% to 27%; P < 0.001) in final anthocyanin concentration. No phenolic degradation products (free protocatechuic acid or gallic acid derived from cyanidin and delphinin species, respectively) were identified in any processed sample when compared to authentic analytical standards, analyzed by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography DAD.Practical Application:  This article provides crucial data directly applicable to commercial juice processing, such as improving anthocyanin yield and practical considerations for anthocyanin stability and degradation. This aspect is particularly pertinent considering the current commercial interest in anthocyanin‐derived phenolic acids and their health‐related benefits. Further research and development targets in the area of commercial juice product development are identified.
Effect of Input Data Variability on Estimations of the Equivalent Constant Temperature Time for Microbial Inactivation by HTST and Retort Thermal Processing
Authors: Salgado Diana , Torres J. Antonio , Welti‐Chanes Jorge , Velazquez Gonzalo 
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  Consumer demand for food safety and quality improvements, combined with new regulations, requires determining the processor's confidence level that processes lowering safety risks while retaining quality will meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. Monte Carlo calculation procedures incorporate input data variability to obtain the statistical distribution of the output of prediction models. This advantage was used to analyze the survival risk of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (M. paratuberculosis) and Clostridium botulinum spores in high‐temperature short‐time (HTST) milk and canned mushrooms, respectively. The results showed an estimated 68.4% probability that the 15 sec HTST process would not achieve at least 5 decimal reductions in M. paratuberculosis counts. Although estimates of the raw milk load of this pathogen are not available to estimate the probability of finding it in pasteurized milk, the wide range of the estimated decimal reductions, reflecting the variability of the experimental data available, should be a concern to dairy processors. Knowledge of the C. botulinum initial load and decimal thermal time variability was used to estimate an 8.5 min thermal process time at 110 °C for canned mushrooms reducing the risk to 10−9 spores/container with a 95% confidence. This value was substantially higher than the one estimated using average values (6.0 min) with an unacceptable 68.6% probability of missing the desired processing objective. Finally, the benefit of reducing the variability in initial load and decimal thermal time was confirmed, achieving a 26.3% reduction in processing time when standard deviation values were lowered by 90%.Practical Application:  In spite of novel technologies, commercialized or under development, thermal processing continues to be the most reliable and cost‐effective alternative to deliver safe foods. However, the severity of the process should be assessed to avoid under‐ and over‐processing and determine opportunities for improvement. This should include a systematic approach to consider variability in the parameters for the models used by food process engineers when designing a thermal process. The Monte Carlo procedure here presented is a tool to facilitate this task for the determination of process time at a constant lethal temperature.
Dental status of patients with mental disorders in a Nigerian teaching hospital: a preliminary survey
Authors: Adeniyi Abiola A. , Ola Bolanle A. , Edeh Christopher E. , Ogunbanjo B. Ogunbiyi , Adewuya Abiodun O. 
Published: July 2011

ABSTRACT Although individuals with mental disorders are reported to experience dental problems similar to the general population, evidence suggests they actually have higher risks of dental disease and increased oral health needs. This study describes the dental status of 105 psychiatric outpatients in a Nigerian hospital. Information was obtained from subject interviews, medical records, and an oral examination to determine their dental caries and periodontal disease status.The oral hygiene status of the study participants was poor; the mean oral hygiene index score was 2.7 ± 1.20. The decayed, missing, and filled teeth ranged from 0 to 9 with a mean of 2.3 ± 2.28. Only five subjects (4.9%) had restorations and the mean number of filled teeth was .14 ± .67. The subjects’ age was significantly related to the mean oral hygiene score (p= .005), the mean gingival score (p= .006), and caries occurrence (p= .047). The oral health status of psychiatric patients in Nigeria is poor, indicating the need to provide oral health education and increase access to dental care for these patients.
Tear meniscus measurement in nasolacrimal duct obstruction patients with Fourier‐domain optical coherence tomography: novel three‐point capture method
Authors: Park Dae Il , Lew Helen , Lee Sang Yeul 
Published: July 2011

Abstract.Purpose:  Fourier‐domain optical coherence tomography (FD ODT) for the evaluation of marginal tear film has not been performed in patients with watery eye or in a controlled study. We used FD OCT to evaluate the height of the lower lid tear film at three points in normal adults and compared it with two watery eye groups.Methods:  We prospectively evaluated with FD OCT 25 normal subjects and 44 patients with a watery eye. Twenty‐three patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) and 21 patients with functional nasolacrimal duct obstruction (FNLDO) were enrolled. Three images were obtained by three vertical FD OCT scans centred on the lower eyelid and inferior cornea, the medial limbus and the lateral limbus. The tear meniscus height (TMH), tear meniscus depth (TMD) and tear meniscus area (TMA) were measured with computer calipers and compared at three points between the two groups.Results:  Watery eyes have significantly greater median TMHs at three points (medial: 584 μm, central: 592 μm, lateral: 470 μm) than controls (274, 291, 205 μm, p < 0.001). Medial and central TMHs were higher than lateral TMH in controls and watery eyes. TMD and TMA also increased significantly in watery eyes (p < 0.001). There was a significant increase in central TMH compared to medial TMH in FNLDOs than in PANDOs (p < 0.05).Conclusion:  Fourier‐domain OCT is a valuable clinical tool in the evaluation of TMH in normal and watery eyes. TMH at three points can be a useful clinical parameter that investigates changes of lower tear meniscus pattern in both PANDO and FNLDO groups.
Role of fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose positron emission tomography for the detection of gastrointestinal tract lesions in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Isobe Kazutoshi , Hata Yoshinobu , Sakaguchi Shinji , Sato Keita , Sano Go , Sugino Keishi , Sakamoto Susumu , Takai Yujiro , Shibuya Kazutoshi , Takagi Keigo , Homma Sakae 
Published: July 2011

AbstractBackground:  The purpose of this study was to clarify the clinical characteristics of lung cancer patients with abnormal accumulation of fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose (FDG) in the gastrointestinal tract imaged by positron emission tomography (PET).Methods:  Of 1071 consecutive patients with primary lung cancer who underwent PET from October 2005 through to March 2010, 25 patients (2.3%) showed localized abnormal FDG accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract. We retrospectively compared the location of abnormal accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract, the maximum standardized uptake value in 1 hour, and final clinical diagnosis.Results:  Of the 25 cases, 12 (48%) were true PET‐positive cases (esophageal cancer in one case, gastric cancer in one, colorectal cancer in seven, gastrointestinal stromal tumor in one, and lung cancer metastasis to the stomach and small intestine in one patient each). The 13 cases with false PET‐positives were gastric polyp in one, gastritis in four, colon polyp in two, diverticulitis in one, and normal physiological accumulation in five. There was also a significant difference between malignancy and benign intestinal accumulation excluding the stomach (P = 0.002).Conclusion:  PET was useful for screening the gastrointestinal tract (except the stomach) for malignancy in lung cancer patients.
Antibody Prevalence of Low‐Pathogenicity Avian Influenza and Evaluation of Management Practices in Minnesota Backyard Poultry Flocks
Authors: Yendell S. J. , Rubinoff I. , Lauer D. C. , Bender J. B. , Scheftel J. M. 
Published: July 2011

SummaryLow‐pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) viruses have caused illness in poultry and humans with poultry contact. To determine whether there is evidence of exposure to avian influenza viruses (AIV) among backyard poultry in Minnesota and their human caretakers, 150 flocks of backyard birds were sampled for antibodies to AIV from August 2007 through December 2008. One hundred flocks were tested through routine slaughter surveillance by the Minnesota Board of Animal Health and an additional 50 flocks were contacted and sampled by study investigators. Blood was collected from 10 to 13 birds from each flock and a survey of biosecurity and management practices was administered to the flock owner. Blood samples were tested by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) for influenza A antibodies. Tested flocks had a median flock size of 100 birds (range: 12–800 birds), and were most commonly owned for meat for personal use (81% of respondents), fun or hobby (58%) and eggs for personal use (56%). Although 7% of flock owners reported that their birds had shown respiratory signs in the previous 3 months, only 1 of 150 flocks tested positive for influenza by AGID. Antibodies to LPAI H6N1 were detected in the positive flock. The owner of the positive flock did not have antibodies to H6 or other common AIV. Based on the findings of this study, the risk of transmission of LPAI viruses from backyard poultry to owners in Minnesota appears to be low under current conditions and management practices.
Pharmacokinetics and
Ex Vivo
Antimalarial Activity of Artesunate-Azithromycin in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Trong , Quang Nguyen Ngoc , Anh Chu Xuan , Thanh Nguyen Xuan , Dai Bui , Birrell Geoffrey W. , Chavchich Marina , Edstein Michael D. 
Published: July 2011

ABSTRACT

In 18 male healthy subjects, artesunate (200 mg)-azithromycin (1,500 mg) daily for 3 days was found to be well tolerated, with only mild gastrointestinal disturbances reported. The pharmacokinetic properties of artesunate-azithromycin given in combination are comparable to those of the drugs given alone. Artesunate and its major active metabolite, dihydroartemisinin, are responsible for most of the
ex vivo
antimalarial activity, with a delayed contribution by azithromycin.
Antimicrobial Activity of B-Lock against Bacterial and Candida spp. Causing Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Ghannoum M. A. , Isham N. , Jacobs M. R. 
Published: July 2011

ABSTRACT

The triple combination trimethoprim, EDTA, and ethanol (B-Lock), is an antimicrobial lock solution for use in indwelling intravascular catheters to prevent and treat catheter-associated infections. B-Lock demonstrated MICs of ≤0.05% (percentage of solution) against
Candida
spp. (
n
= 125) and 0.003% to 25% against bacterial strains (
n
= 175). B-Lock was also fungicidal against the majority of the
Candida
strains at 6% to 25%. B-Lock demonstrates potential value for the prevention and treatment of catheter-associated infections.