bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Observations on the genus Scoliciosporum in Australia, with the description of a second species of Jarmania
Authors: KANTVILAS Gintaras 
Published: June 2008

Abstract:Australian records of Scoliciosporum are reviewed. The new species, Jarmania scoliciosporoides Kantvilas, is described, based on Tasmanian material previously referred to Scoliciosporum pruinosum (P. James) Vězda; the systematic position of these two taxa is considered. Two further species recorded previously, S. compactum Körber and S. umbrinum (Ach.) Arnold, are discussed and all records united under the latter name; S. umbrinum is reported from Tasmania for the first time.
Vahliella, a new lichen genus
Authors: JØRGENSEN Per M. 
Published: June 2008

Abstract:The new genus Vahliella is recognized as a genus since molecular studies have shown that the subgenus Micropannaria of Fuscopannaria differs so much from this genus that it cannot even be placed in the Pannariaceae. While its family position remains unclear, it is certainly best established as a genus, as it is recognizable also on morphological and chemical characters. Unlike the mainly warm-temperate genus Fuscopannaria, it is restricted to cold-temperate regions. Presently it is known to contain eight species, a key to which is given. The following new combinations are introduced: Vahliella adnata (P. M. Jørg. & Upreti), Vahliella atlantica (P. M. Jørg. & P. W. James), Vahliella californica (Tuck.), Vahliella globuligera (Fryday & P. M. Jørg.), Vahliella hookerioides (P. M. Jørg.), Vahliella labrata (P. M. Jørg.), Vahliella leucophaea (Vahl), Vahliella saubinetii (Mont.).
Retroviral promoters in the human genome
Authors: Conley Andrew B. , Piriyapongsa Jittima , Jordan I. King 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Motivation: Endogenous retrovirus (ERV) elements have been shown to contribute promoter sequences that can initiate transcription of adjacent human genes. However, the extent to which retroviral sequences initiate transcription within the human genome is currently unknown. We analyzed genome sequence and high-throughput expression data to systematically evaluate the presence of retroviral promoters in the human genome.
Results: We report the existence of 51 197 ERV-derived promoter sequences that initiate transcription within the human genome, including 1743 cases where transcription is initiated from ERV sequences that are located in gene proximal promoter or 5′ untranslated regions (UTRs). A total of 114 of the ERV-derived transcription start sites can be demonstrated to drive transcription of 97 human genes, producing chimeric transcripts that are initiated within ERV long terminal repeat (LTR) sequences and read-through into known gene sequences. ERV promoters drive tissue-specific and lineage-specific patterns of gene expression and contribute to expression divergence between paralogs. These data illustrate the potential of retroviral sequences to regulate human transcription on a large scale consistent with a substantial effect of ERVs on the function and evolution of the human genome.
Contact: king.jordan@biology.gatech.edu
Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
LOT: a tool for linkage analysis of ordinal traits for pedigree data
Authors: Zhang Meizhuo , Feng Rui , Chen Xiang , Hu Buqu , Zhang Heping 
Published: June 2008

AbstractSummary: Existing linkage-analysis methods address binary or quantitative traits. However, many complex diseases and human conditions, particularly behavioral disorders, are rated on ordinal scales. Herein, we introduce, LOT, a tool that performs linkage analysis of ordinal traits for pedigree data. It implements a latent-variable proportional-odds logistic model that relates inheritance patterns to the distribution of the ordinal trait. The likelihood-ratio test is used for testing evidence of linkage.Availability: The LOT program is available for download at http://c2s2.yale.edu/software/LOT/Contact: heping.zhang@yale.edu
Foldon‐guided self‐assembly of ultra‐stable protein fibers
Authors: Bhardwaj Anshul , Walker‐Kopp Nancy , Wilkens Stephan , Cingolani Gino 
Published: June 2008

AbstractA common objective in protein engineering is the enhancement of the thermodynamic properties of recombinant proteins for possible applications in nanobiotechnology. The performance of proteins can be improved by the rational design of chimeras that contain structural elements with the desired properties, thus resulting in a more effective exploitation of protein folds designed by nature. In this paper, we report the design and characterization of an ultra‐stable self‐refolding protein fiber, which rapidly reassembles in solution after denaturation induced by harsh chemical treatment or high temperature. This engineered protein fiber was constructed on the molecular framework of bacteriophage P22 tail needle gp26, by fusing its helical core to the foldon domain of phage T4 fibritin. Using protein engineering, we rationally permuted the foldon upstream and downstream from the gp26 helical core and characterized gp26‐foldon chimeras by biophysical analysis. Our data demonstrate that one specific protein chimera containing the foldon immediately downstream from the gp26 helical core, gp26(1‐140)‐F, displays the highest thermodynamic and structural stability and refolds spontaneously in solution following denaturation. The gp26‐foldon chimeric fiber remains stable in 6.0 M guanidine hydrochloride, or at 80°C, rapidly refolds after denaturation, and has both N and C termini accessible for chemical/biological modification, thereby representing an ideal platform for the design of self‐assembling nanoblocks.
A needle guidance device compared to free hand technique in an ultrasound‐guided interventional task using a phantom
Authors: Van Geffen G.‐J. , Mulder J. , Gielen M. , Van Egmond J. , Scheffer G.‐J. , Bruhn J. 
Published: June 2008

SummaryIn this in vitro study, a needle guidance device and a ‘free hand’ technique for ultrasound guided needle insertion were compared in a simulated ultrasound‐guided interventional task using a porcine phantom. Residents inexperienced in using ultrasonography were asked to insert a needle, using an in‐plane techniques, and to make contact with metal rods at a depth of 2 and 4 cm in the phantom. The transducer made angles of 90°, 60° and 45° with the surface of the phantom. The times to perform the procedures were significantly shorter and the needle visualisation was significantly better when using the needle guidance device. The residents ranked their satisfaction with the needle‐guidance device significantly better than the ‘free‐hand’ technique. This device may be beneficial when performing ultrasound guided peripheral nerve blocks, especially by inexperienced operators.
The Papworth BiVent tube: a new device for lung isolation
Authors: Ghosh S. , Falter F. , Goldsmith K. , Arrowsmith J. E. 
Published: June 2008

SummaryProvision of one lung ventilation can be technically challenging, particularly for anaesthetists who are only occasionally required to isolate one lung from the other. A new double lumen endotracheal tube, the Papworth BiVent Tube, has been designed to enable rapid and reliable lung isolation using any bronchus blocker without the need for fibreoptic endoscopic guidance. In this study, an airway‐training manikin was used to assess ease of tracheal intubation and lung isolation using the Papworth BiVent tube. Ease of intubation was compared to a single lumen endotracheal tube and a conventional double lumen endobronchial tube. Ease of lung isolation when using a bronchus blocker was compared to a single lumen tube combined with a bronchial blocker. Tracheal intubation using the Papworth BiVent tube was found to be easier than when using a conventional double lumen endobronchial tube. Lung isolation using the Papworth BiVent tube used in combination with a bronchus blocker was achieved more reliably and rapidly than when using a single lumen tube and bronchus blocker.
A case series of the use of the ProSeal laryngeal mask airway in emergency lower abdominal surgery
Authors: Fabregat‐López J. , Garcia‐Rojo B. , Cook T. M. 
Published: June 2008

SummaryThe ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) has been used routinely for anaesthesia and for difficult airway management including airway rescue in non‐fasted patients. Compared with the classic laryngeal mask airway the PLMA increases protection against gastric inflation and pulmonary aspiration, by separating the respiratory and gastro‐intestinal tracts. The PLMA has potential advantages over use of the tracheal tube including smoother recovery, reduced pharyngolaryngeal morbidity and even reduced postoperative pain. We report a series of patients scheduled for emergency appendicectomy, without other risk factors for regurgitation, managed with the PLMA. Anaesthesia was induced and maintained with remifentanil, target controlled propofol and rocuronium. A series of 102 cases were managed without complications and high rates of first time placement of the PLMA (inserted over a suction tube placed in the oesophagus). With careful patient selection the PLMA may offer an alternative airway for use by experienced anaesthetists in patients undergoing minor lower abdominal surgery.
B‐cell‐activating factor inhibits CD20‐mediated and B‐cell receptor‐mediated apoptosis in human B cells
Authors: Saito Yohei , Miyagawa Yoshitaka , Onda Keiko , Nakajima Hideki , Sato Ban , Horiuchi Yasuomi , Okita Hajime , Katagiri Yohko U. , Saito Masahiro , Shimizu Toshiaki , Fujimoto Junichiro , Kiyokawa Nobutaka 
Published: June 2008

SummaryB‐cell‐activating factor (BAFF) is a survival and maturation factor for B cells belonging to the tumour necrosis factor superfamily. Among three identified functional receptors, the BAFF receptor (BAFF‐R) is thought to be responsible for the effect of BAFF on B cells though details of how remain unclear. We determined that a hairy‐cell leukaemia line, MLMA, expressed a relatively high level of BAFF‐R and was susceptible to apoptosis mediated by either CD20 or B‐cell antigen receptor (BCR). Using MLMA cells as an in vitro model of mature B cells, we found that treatment with BAFF could inhibit apoptosis mediated by both CD20 and BCR. We also observed, using immunoblot analysis and microarray analysis, that BAFF treatment induced activation of nuclear factor‐κB2 following elevation of the expression level of Bcl‐2, which may be involved in the molecular mechanism of BAFF‐mediated inhibition of apoptosis. Interestingly, BAFF treatment was also found to induce the expression of a series of genes, such as that for CD40, related to cell survival, suggesting the involvement of a multiple mechanism in the BAFF‐mediated anti‐apoptotic effect. MLMA cells should provide a model for investigating the molecular basis of the effect of BAFF on B cells in vitro and will help to elucidate how B cells survive in the immune system in which BAFF‐mediated signalling is involved.
Effect of variety on the heat transfer coefficient during drying of fermented ground cassava
Authors: Ademiluyi Taiwo , Audu Thomas O.K. , Njobuenwu Derrick O. , Akpan Friday E. 
Published: June 2008

SummaryThe effect of variety on the heat transfer coefficient of four cassava cultivars (TMS 30555, TMS 30572, NR 8082 and one Native type) was investigated. The cultivars were dried at an air temperature of 142 °C, air velocity of 1.397 m/s−1 and relative humidity of 55%. The heat transfer coefficient obtained varied from 0.0622 to 0.0725 kJ kg s °C. The heat transfer coefficient varied for some cultivars, while some cultivars had close heat transfer coefficient. NR 8082 had the lowest heat transfer coefficient while TMS 30555 had the highest heat transfer coefficient. The cultivars with high heat transfer coefficient were found to have low bulk density, smaller particle diameter, high drying rate, low specific heat capacity and high carbohydrate fat and protein contents than other cultivars.
Comparison of hot air‐drying and freeze‐drying on the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activities of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) flours
Authors: Que Fei , Mao Linchun , Fang Xuehua , Wu Tao 
Published: June 2008

SummaryFreeze‐drying and hot air‐drying were applied in the preparation of pumpkin flours to investigate the effects of drying methods on the antioxidant activities and physicochemical properties. The antioxidant activities of methanol extracts from pumpkin flours were studied in terms of total antioxidant activity, reducing power, free radical scavenging, superoxide anion radical scavenging and metal chelating activities. Hot air‐dried pumpkin flour showed stronger antioxidant activities than freeze‐dried flour. The percentage inhibition of peroxidation in linoleic acid system by 15 mg mL−1 extracts from hot air‐dried and freeze‐dried pumpkin flours was found to be 92.4% and 86.1% after 120 h of incubation, respectively. Hot air‐dried pumpkin flour exhibited higher reducing power, free radical scavenging and metal chelating activities than freeze‐dried flour. This study also indicated that freeze‐drying significantly reduced the browning and preserved the redness of pumpkin flours. Hot air‐drying reduced the oil absorption capacity, water absorption and porosity of pumpkin flours, while it markedly increased the water solubility and bulk density.
Economic evaluation of alternative technologies for tartrate stabilisation of wines
Authors: Low Lin Lin , O’Neill Brian , Ford Chris , Godden Jim , Gishen Mark , Colby Christopher 
Published: June 2008

AbstractCold stabilisation is a widely used industrial process to prevent tartrate instability in bottled wines. In this article, current knowledge regarding performance and cost of cold stabilisation and alternative technologies for tartrate stabilisation is reviewed. Whilst there have been occasional cost comparisons between cold stabilisation and alternative technologies published in the literature, existing data is not satisfactory to permit an accurate economic evaluation of the different process options. Therefore, alternative technologies to cold stabilisation, including the Westfalia process, nanofiltration and electrodialysis were compared for both technical and economic performance. The engineering calculations and conceptual cost estimates were based on real world data from an Australian winery. Product loss was a key cost driver in differentiating tartrate stabilisation processes. Cold stabilisation was found to be the most economic treatment process irrespective of scale or winery size. Westfalia process and nanofiltration were the next most cost effective options.
Microwave‐assisted encapsulation of citric acid using hydrocolloids
Authors: Abbasi Soleiman , Rahimi Somayeh 
Published: June 2008

SummaryThis study elucidates the capability of a novel technique for producing microcapsules at an enormously short time and low cost. This technique is based on the difference between dielectric constants of core and coat materials. Edible citric acid was mixed with various biomacromolecules at ratios of 1:5, 1:10, and 1:100. Each mixture was treated up to 600 s at various powers (120–1200 W) in a microwave oven. Subsequently, the microcapsules were separated by distinct sieves, and their apparent structure and quality were evaluated using binoculars, and photographs were taken for visual comparisons. Our observations showed that only five hydrocolloids were able to produce high‐quality and efficient encapsulation [casein > inulin > carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) > low methoxyl (LM) pectin (9/5%) > sorbitol]. Moreover, the highest coating efficiency was seen at highest intensity (1200 W) at a mixing ratio of 1:10. Furthermore, the optimum treating time periods for those five efficient coating materials were about 400, 75, 400, 100, and 100 s.
Adhesion of Listeria monocytogenes to materials commonly found in domestic kitchens
Authors: Teixeira Pilar , Lima Joana , Azeredo Joana , Oliveira Rosário 
Published: June 2008

SummaryThe aim of this work was to investigate the adhesion of Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313 to glass, granite, marble, polypropylene from a bowl (PPb), polypropylene from a cutting board (PPcb) and stainless steel (SS), which are materials commonly used in kitchens. Marble and granite were chosen because they are applied as kitchen bench covers and pavements in many countries and there are no literature reports on their behaviour in terms of microbial adhesion. The effect of surface hydrophobicity and roughness on the adhesion process was also analysed. The results showed that the highest extent of adhesion of L. monocytogenes occurred to stainless steel, followed by glass and in less extent to the other materials studied. However, it was not possible to establish a correlation between surface hydrophobicity or roughness and the extent of adhesion of L. monocytogenes. The adherence of L. monocytogenes should be dependent on other factors, like the presence of exopolymers and surface charge.
Inhibition of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris spores by natural compounds
Authors: Bevilacqua A. , Corbo M.R. , Sinigaglia M. 
Published: June 2008

SummaryThe aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness of some natural compounds (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, limonene) and sodium benzoate against two strains of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris (c8 and γ4). The antimicrobial compounds (10–500 ppm) were solved in malt extract broth, inoculated separately with 103 spores mL−1 of each strain; the samples were incubated at 44 °C and the outgrowth of spores was evaluated every day by measuring the absorbance of the medium at 420 nm; inoculated samples without active compounds were used as controls. The results pointed out that limonene was not effective in inhibiting the outgrowth of A. acidoterrestris spores; 100 ppm of cinnamaldehyde or sodium benzoate slowed the spore germination, whereas 500 ppm of eugenol inhibited the growth of microbial targets for 13 days. Strain c8 was more resistant than isolate γ4 and cinnamaldehyde was the most effective compound in inhibiting the germination of A. acidoterrestris spores.
Optimisation of osmotic dehydration of ‘Tommy Atkins’ mango fruit
Authors: Azoubel Patrícia Moreira , Da Silva Francinaide Oliveira 
Published: June 2008

SummaryOsmotic dehydration of mango in sucrose solution as influenced by temperature (30–50 °C), immersion time (60–150 min) and solution concentration (40–60% w/w) was studied through response surface methodology. Responses of water loss and solid gain were fitted to polynomials, with multiple correlation coefficients ranging from 0.72 to 0.95, respectively. The fitted functions were optimised for maximum water loss and minimised incorporation of solids in order to obtain a product resembling non‐processed fruit. Optimum conditions to obtain water removal >25% with solid uptake lower than 6% could be obtained using a 44% (w/w) sucrose solution concentration, temperatures up to 38 °C and immersion times up to 80 min.
Characterisation of the main enzymatic activities present in six commercial macerating enzymes and their effects on extracting colour during winemaking of Monastrell grapes
Authors: Romero‐Cascales Inmaculada , Fernández‐Fernández José Ignacio , Ros‐García José María , López‐Roca José María , Gómez‐Plaza Encarna 
Published: June 2008

SummaryNumerous studies have reported on the use of enzymes in wineries to facilitate the extraction of grape phenolics and to aid colour stability, although no clear conclusions were reached. Information concerning the enzymatic activities of industrial preparations is very difficult to obtain despite its importance. The aim of this work was to characterise and quantify the activities of six macerating enzyme preparations to optimise their use, and to study their effect on the chromatic characteristics of a Monastrell wine. The results indicate that differences exist in the type of enzymatic activities present in the preparations and in their concentration. The chromatic characteristics of the resulting wines, both at the end of alcoholic fermentation and after 12 months of storage in stainless steel tanks, showed differences with the use of the different maceration enzymes when comparing with control wine, although very little differences were observed between the different enzyme treatments. The enzyme‐treated wines showed, at the end of alcoholic fermentation, a higher OD280 and tannin content, and after 12 months, a higher colour intensity too. The main effect of all the preparations was an increase in the total phenol content, probably by facilitating the release of skin tannins.
Blood–brain barrier impairment with enhanced SP, NK‐1R, GFAP and Claudin‐5 expressions in experimental cerebral toxocariasis
Authors: LIAO C.‐W. , CHO W.‐L. , KAO T.‐C. , SU K.‐E. , LIN Y.‐H. , FAN C.‐K. 
Published: June 2008

SUMMARYInfection byToxocara canisin humans may cause cerebral toxocariasis (CT). Appreciable numbers ofT. canislarvae cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) to invade the brain thus causing CT. In the present studies, we evaluated the BBB permeability and BBB injury as assessed by the cerebral Evans blue (EB) concentration as well as by pathological changes and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression inT. canis‐infected mice monitored from 3 days (dpi) to 8 weeks post‐infection (wpi). The vasodilation neuropeptides, the expressions of substance P (SP) and its preferred binding neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK‐1R) as well as claudin‐5 of tight‐junction proteins associated with BBB impairment were also assessed by Western blotting and reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Results revealed that BBB permeability increased as evidenced by a significantly elevated EB concentration in brains of infected mice. BBB injury appeared due to enhanced GFAP protein and mRNA expressions from 4 to 8 wpi. Leukocytes might have been unrelated to BBB impairment because there was no inflammatory cell infiltration despiteT. canislarvae having invaded the brain; whereas markedly elevated SP protein and NK‐1R mRNA expressions concomitant with enhanced claudin‐5 expression seemed to be associated with persistent BBB impairment in this experimental CT model.