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Control Samples (control + sample)

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Medical Sciences37%
Chemistry35%
Life Sciences12%
Business, Economics, Finance and Accounting5%
Engineering3%
5 Other Domains8%

Kinds of Control Samples

  • quality control sample
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  • untreated control sample
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    Selected Abstracts

    Accumulation of methylglyoxal in the gingival crevicular fluid of chronic periodontitis patients

    JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 4 2003
    S. Kashket
    Abstract Background, aims: Methylglyoxal (MG), a toxic product of cellular metabolism, is elevated in tissues and fluids in a number of human diseases. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine whether MG accumulates in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of chronic periodontitis patients. Methods: GCF samples were collected for 30 s each from three teeth with pocket depths greater than 3 mm (DD sites), from 14 chronic periodontitis patients. Control samples were taken from three healthy sites (DH sites) in the same patients, as well as from seven subjects who were periodontally healthy (HH sites). Fluid volumes were determined and the strips were placed in 0.5 N perchloric acid. Subsequently, samples were derivatized with o -phenylenediamine and the resulting methylquinoxaline was assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography on Lichrospher® -100 RP-18, with UV detection. Results: Mean pocket depths were 5.7±0.7, 2.7±0.6 and 2.7±0.5 mm (mean±SD) for the DD, DH and HH sites, respectively. Mean MG levels were found to be 208.7±241.7 and 142.9±235.7 pmol/site in the GCF from DD and DH sites, respectively (p=0.0023), but only 11.5±4.4 pmol/site for the HH sites. Bacteroides forsythus has been found to accumulate high levels of MG in culture (unpublished data) and, consistent with this, the sampled diseased sites contained higher levels of B. forsythus than the corresponding healthy sites (2.7±4.2×105 versus 0.7±1.1×105, respectively; p=0.022). Total "red complex" microorganisms were significantly elevated in the DD sites. Conclusions: In view of the known protein- and DNA-modifying effects of MG, the finding of elevated levels of MG in the GCF from chronic periodontitis patients supports the hypothesis that MG may contribute to destructive tissue damage in this disease. Zusammenfassung Hintergrund: Methylglyoxal (MG), ein toxisches Produkt des Zellstoffwechsels, ist bei einer Reihe menschlicher Erkrankungen in Geweben und Körperflüssigkeiten erhöht. Zielsetzung: Querschnittsstudie zur Klärung der Frage, ob sich MG in der Sulkusflüssigkeit (SF) bei Patienten mit chronischer Parodontitis ansammelt. Methoden: Bei 14 Patienten mit chronischer Parodontitis wurde SF für 30 s an 3 Zähnen mit Sondierungstiefen >3 mm (DD-Stellen) gewonnen. Kontrollproben wurden von jeweils 3 gesunden Stellen (DH-Stellen) bei den gleichen Patienten und bei 7 parodontal gesunden Personen gewonnen (HH-Stellen). Die Flüssigkeitsvolumina wurden bestimmt und die Probenstreifen in 0,5 N Perchlorsäure gegeben. Anschließend wurden die Proben mit o-Phenyldiamin versetzt und das resultierende Methylquinoxalin wurde mittels High-Performance-Liquid-Chromatographie in einem Lichrospher®-100 RP-18 bei UV-Detektion nachgewiesen. Ergebnisse: Die mittleren Sondierungstiefen lagen bei 5,7±0,7, an den DD-Stellen, bei 2,7±0,6 (DH) und 2,7±0,5 mm (Mittelwert + Standardabweichung) (HH). Die mittleren MG-Spiegel lagen bei 208,7±241,7 an den DD-Stellen und bei 142,9±235,7 pmol/Stelle an den DH-Stellen (p=0,0023), aber nur bei 11,5±4,4 pmol/Stelle an den HH-Stellen. Es war gezeigt worden, dass Bacteroides forsythus in Kultur hohe Konzentrationen von MG ansammelt (unveröffentlichte Daten) und übereinstimmend damit wurden an den untersuchten DD-Stellen höhere Zahlen von B. forsythus gefunden als an den entsprechenden gesunden Stellen (2,7±4,2×105 versus 0,7±1,1×105; p=0,022). Die Zahl aller Keime des "Roten Komplexes" waren an DD-Stellen signifikant erhöht. Schlussfolgerungen: In Anbetracht der bekannten Proteine und DNS verändernden Effekte von MG unterstützt dieser Nachweis erhöhter MG-Spiegel in der SF bei Patienten mit chronischer Parodontitis die Hypothese, dass MG zur Gewebezerstörung bei Parodontitis beiträgt. Résumé Références et buts: Le méthylglyoxal (MG), un produit toxique du métabolisme cellulaire est retrouvé en quantitéélevée dans les tissus et les fluides lors de nombreuses maladies humaines. Une étude croisée fut réalisée pour déterminer si MG s'accumulait dans le fluide gingival (GCF) des patients atteints de parodontite chronique. Méthodes: Des échantillons de GCF furent prélevés pendant 30 secondes chacun de 3 dents avec des profondeurs de poches de plus de 3 mm (sites DD), chez 14 patients atteints de parodontites chroniques. Des échantillons contrôles furent prélevés sur des sites sains (sites DH) chez les mêmes patients, et aussi chez 7 sujets au parodonte sain (sites HH). Les volumes de fluide furent déterminés et les bandelettes ont été mises dans 0.5 N d'acide perchlorique. Puis, les échantillons furent transformés à l'aide de o-phenylenediamine et la méthylquinoxaline ainsi créée fut analysé par chromatographie liquide à haute performance sur une Lichrospher®-100 RP-18, avec détection aux UV. Résultats: Les profondeurs de poche moyenne étaient de 5.7 ± 0.7, 2.7 ± 0.6 et 2.7±0.5 mm (moyenne ± SD) pour les sites DD, DH et HH, respectivement. Les niveaux moyen de MG étaient de 208.7±241.7 et 142.9±235.7 pmol/site dans le fluide des sites in DD et DH, respectivement (p=0.0023), mais seulement de 11.5±4.4 pmol/site pour les sites HH. On a trouvé que Bacteroides forsythus accumulait de hauts niveaux de MG en culture (données non publiées) et les sites malades échantillonnés contenait effectivement de plus hauts niveaux de B. forsythus que les sites sains correspondants (2.7±4.2×105 contre 0.7±1.1×105, respectivement; p=0.022). Les microorganismes du complexe rouge étaient significativement en nombre élevé dans les sites DD. Conclusions: Au vu des effets connus de MG pour modifier les protéines et l'AND, la découverte de niveaux élevés de MG dans le fluide gingival de patients atteints de maladie parodontale chronique supporte l'hypothèse selon laquelle MG pourrait contribuer aux dommages tissulaires destructifs rencontrés au cours de cette maladie. [source]

    Extraction Using Moderate Electric Fields

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 1 2004
    I. SENSOY
    ABSTRACT: During moderate electric field (MEF) processing, a voltage applied across a food material may affect the permeability of cell membranes. It is known that high electric fields can cause either reversible or irreversible rupture of cell membranes. In this research, the effect of MEF processing on permeability was studied. Effects of frequency and electric field strength were investigated. Cellular structure was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Fermented black tea leaves and fresh or dry mint leaves were placed in tea bags or cut in 1 cm2 squares, depending on the experiment, and immersed in an aqueous fluid medium. Control samples were heated on a hot plate. MEF treatments were conducted by applying a voltage across electrodes immersed in opposite sides of the beaker. Control and MEF-treated fresh mint leaf samples heated to 50°C were analyzed by TEM. MEF processing significantly increased the extraction yield for fresh mint leaves because of additional electric field effects during heating. Dried mint leaves and fermented black tea leaves were not affected by the treatment type. Low frequency resulted in higher extraction rates for fresh mint leaves. The electric field strength study showed that electrical breakdown is achieved even at low electric field strengths. MEF treatment shows potential to be used as an alternative to conventional heating for extraction from cellular materials. [source]

    Bacterial diversity in aphthous ulcers

    MOLECULAR ORAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2007
    L. Marchini
    Introduction:, Recurrent aphthous ulcers are common lesions of the oral mucosa of which the etiology is unknown. This study aimed to estimate the bacterial diversity in the lesions and in control mucosa in pooled samples using a culture-independent molecular approach. Methods:, Samples were collected from ten healthy individuals and ten individuals with a clinical history of recurrent aphthous ulcers. After DNA extraction, the 16S ribosomal RNA bacterial gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction with universal primers; amplicons were cloned, sequenced and matched to the GenBank database. Results:, A total of 535 clones were analyzed, defining 95 bacterial species. We identified 62 putative novel phylotypes. In recurrent aphthous ulcer lesions 57 phylotypes were detected, of which 11 were known species. Control samples had 38 phylotypes, five of which were already known. Only three species or phylotypes were abundant and common to both groups (Gemella haemolysans, Streptococcus mitis strain 209 and Streptococcus pneumoniae R6). One genus was found only in recurrent aphthous ulcer samples (Prevotella) corresponding to 16% of all lesion-derived clones. Conclusion:, The microbiota found in recurrent aphthous ulcers and in the control groups diverged markedly and the rich variety of genera found can provide a new starting point for individual qualitative and quantitative analyses of bacteria associated with this oral condition. [source]

    Detection of tumor specific gene expression in bone marrow and peripheral blood from patients with small cell lung carcinoma

    CANCER, Issue 4 2003
    Masato Shingyoji M.D.
    Abstract BACKGROUND Small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) has the propensity to grow rapidly and metastasize extensively. Detection of micro-dissemination of SCLC may have clinical relevance. For its detection, tumor-specific gene expressions were examined in peripheral blood and bone marrow aspirate from patients with SCLC. METHODS Expression of prepro-gastrin-releasing peptide (preproGRP), neuromedin B receptor (NMB-R) and gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRP-R) were examined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in peripheral blood and bone marrow aspirate from 40 untreated patients with SCLC. Control samples consisted of peripheral blood samples from 5 patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 20 healthy volunteers. RESULTS Positive rates of preproGRP, NMB-R, and GRP-R in bone marrow aspirate of patients with SCLC were 23% (9/40), 8% (3/40), and 10% (4/40), respectively. Those rates in peripheral blood were 11% (4/38), 5% (2/38), and 29% (11/38), respectively. Although GRP-R expression was detected in patients with NSCLC and in healthy volunteers, preproGRP and NMB-R expressions were not detected in patients with NSCLC and in healthy volunteers. All three gene expressions in bone marrow were more frequently observed in patients with bone marrow metastasis, accessed by biopsy, than in patients without. PreproGRP gene expression in bone marrow was also more frequent in patients with bone metastasis, accessed by bone scintigram, than in patients without, and was related to poorer survival. CONCLUSIONS Micro-dissemination of SCLC was detectable by RT-PCR of preproGRP and NMB-R, both specific for SCLC. These gene expressions in bone marrow may be related to disease extent and prognosis. Cancer 2003;97:1057,62. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11108 [source]

    Multiparameter immunophenotyping by flow cytometry in multiple myeloma: The diagnostic utility of defining ranges of normal antigenic expression in comparison to histology,

    CYTOMETRY, Issue 4 2010
    Elisa Cannizzo
    Abstract Background: Numerous studies have reported on the immunophenotype of plasma cells (PCs) in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and in plasma cell myeloma (PCM), but very few have examined the immunophenotype of normal PCs. In this study, an objective definition of normal range of expression for each antigen was found on normal control PCs. Using these new ranges of normal expression (new method) is different from using a static 20% of PCs cut-off for all antigens as described in the literature (traditional method). These newly calculated normal ranges for each antigen were applied to our data, and compared to histologic and immunohistochemical findings. Methods: Bone marrow samples from 46 patients with PC neoplasms and 15 normal controls were studied. A minimum of 100 PC were analyzed for each patient and control sample. An 8-color staining method was applied to study the immunophenotype of PCs, using a BD FACSCanto II. Results: By the new ranges of normality calculated in this study it was determined that different antigens have different level of expression on polyclonal PCs. CD19 correlated with histology by both the traditional and new methods, but had superior correlation by the new method. Conclusions: This report is the first 8-color immunophenotypic study of PCM in which a "range of normal expression" for each antigen is defined. This is a critical step to help distinguish between a normal and neoplastic PC immunophenotype and discern which antigens are of diagnostic importance. © 2010 Clinical Cytometry Society [source]

    A parylene-based dual channel micro-electrophoresis system for rapid mutation detection via heteroduplex analysis,

    ELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 18 2008
    Sertan Sukas
    Abstract A new dual channel micro-electrophoresis system for rapid mutation detection based on heteroduplex analysis was designed and implemented. Mutation detection was successfully achieved in a total separation length of 250,,m in less than 3,min for a 590,bp DNA sample harboring a 3,bp mutation causing an amino acid change. Parylene-C was used as the structural material for fabricating the micro-channels as it provides conformal deposition, transparency, biocompatibility, and low background fluorescence without any surface treatment. A new dual channel architecture was derived from the traditional cross-channel layout by forming two identical channels with independent sample loading and waste reservoirs. The control of injected sample volume was accomplished by a new u-turn injection technique with pull-back method. The use of heteroduplex analysis as a mutation detection method on a cross-linked polyacrylamide medium provided accurate mutation detection in an extremely short length and time. The presence of two channels on the microchip offers the opportunity of comparing the sample to be tested with a desired control sample rapidly, which is very critical for the accuracy and reliability of the mutation analyses, especially for clinical and research purposes. [source]

    Fungal rDNA signatures in coronary atherosclerotic plaques

    ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 12 2007
    Stephan J. Ott
    Summary Bacterial DNA has been found in coronary plaques and it has therefore been concluded that bacteria may play a role as trigger factors in the chronic inflammatory process underlying coronary atherosclerosis. However, the microbial spectrum is complex and it is not known whether microorganisms other than bacteria are involved in coronary disease. Fungal 18S rDNA signatures were systematically investigated in atherosclerotic tissue obtained through catheter-based atherectomy of 38 patients and controls (unaffected coronary arteries) using clone libraries, denaturating gradient gel analysis (DGGE), in situ hybridization and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Fungal DNA was found in 35 of 38 (92.11%) coronary heart disease patients by either polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with universal primers or in situ hybridization analysis (n = 5), but not in any control sample. In a clone library with more than 350 sequenced clones from pooled patient DNA, an overall richness of 19 different fungal phylotypes could be observed. Fungal profiles of coronary heart disease patients obtained by DGGE analysis showed a median richness of fungal species of 5 (range from 2 to 9) with a high interindividual variability (mean similarity 18.83%). For the first time, the presence of fungal components in atherosclerotic plaques has been demonstrated. Coronary atheromatous plaques harbour diverse and variable fungal communities suggesting a polymicrobial contribution to the chronic inflammatory aetiology. [source]

    Stabilization of phytosterols in rapeseed oil by natural antioxidants during heating

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF LIPID SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 11 2009
    Dominik Kmiecik
    Abstract Antioxidants are substances that can reduce negative changes in fat. Many antioxidants are very effective during storage, but during heating they lose their properties. It is very important to find antioxidants that will be stable at high temperatures and protect fat throughout the entire frying process. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of natural and synthetic antioxidants on changes in phytosterols of rapeseed oil during heating. Oil with antioxidants was heated at 180,°C for 4,h in a Rancimat® and in an Oxidograph®. Ethanol extract of rosemary, ethanol extract of green tea, and BHT were used in the study. The contents of phytosterols (sitosterol, campesterol, avenasterol, brassicasterol, stigmasterol) and oxyphytosterols (7,- and 7,-hydroxysterol, 5,,6,- and 5,,6,-epoxysterol, 7-ketosterol and triols) were estimated by gas chromatography. In all samples with antioxidants, a lower decrease of phytosterols and a lower increase of total oxyphytosterols were observed in comparison with the control sample (without antioxidant). The antioxidant effect depends on the type of the antioxidant and the heating conditions. The best results were observed in samples with natural antioxidants. BHT was a substance that protected phytosterols as well, but not as effectively as the other antioxidants. [source]

    Approximal caries development in surfaces in contact with fluoride-releasing and non-fluoride-releasing restorative materials: an in situ study

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 6 2007
    Áine M. Lennon
    This study investigated the effect of compomer on initial interproximal caries development. One-hundred and sixty cylindrical, and 40 semispherical, bovine enamel samples (control) were prepared, polished, and sterilized. Sixty semicircular samples were prepared from each of the compomer Dyract eXtra and the fluoride-free composite Spectrum TPH. Samples were stored in water and fluoridated twice daily for 28 d. A baseline quantitative light fluorescence (QLF) image was made of each cylindrical sample. Twenty volunteers received intra-oral appliances with eight sample chambers. Each wing contained 1 control sample and either 3 Dyract eXtra or 3 Spectrum TPH samples in contact with the enamel surface of a cylindrical enamel sample. Appliances were worn for 24 h a day for 28 d except during toothbrushing (twice daily) and placement in 10% sucrose solution (five times daily). A final QLF image was made after 28 d. Caries development was analyzed as the lesion area × mean fluorescence loss (,Q % mm2) between these and the baseline images using QLF subtract software. The median ,Q was significantly lower in the Dyract eXtra group (,6.1% mm2) than in the Spectrum TPH (,13.9% mm2, P , 0.001) or control (,11.4% mm2, P = 0.03) groups. Teeth in contact with the compomer developed less caries compared with controls. [source]

    The impact of exchange programs on the integration of the hostgroup into the self-concept

    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 1 2010
    Kai Sassenberg
    Two studies analyzed the impact of international exchange programs on students' identity development. More precisely, the authors predict that exchange students integrate the host society (hostgroup) into their self-concept during an exchange year. Study 1 found a stronger social identification with the hostgroup and higher commitment for former exchange students than for future exchange students. Study 2 replicated the difference between former and future exchange students and found in addition that both former and future exchange students had a stronger identification and commitment in comparison to a control group that did neither take part in nor apply for an exchange program. Moreover, in this study the inclusion of the hostgroup into the self-concept was assessed via a response time paradigm. The results indicate that former and future exchange students have a stronger association between the self and the hostgroup than the control sample, but no difference between former and future exchange students was found. The results provide evidence for the impact of interest in and actual intensive intergroup contact on students' self-concept. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

    Price Performance Following Share-Repurchase Announcements by Closed-End Funds

    FINANCIAL REVIEW, Issue 4 2007
    Aigbe Akhigbe
    G14; G20; G23 Abstract We investigate the price performance of closed-end funds that announce share-repurchase programs. Closed-end funds experience positive average stock-price reactions to the announcements. The long-run buy-and-hold abnormal returns of repurchasing funds over the subsequent three years are significantly higher than a nonrepurchasing control sample matched by size, type, investment style and geographic diversification. Funds with larger discounts, international funds, equity funds, and funds that announce larger repurchases or frequently announce repurchases, experience more positive stock-price reactions. Except for larger repurchases, the same characteristics are associated with more positive long-run buy-and-hold returns. [source]

    Flame retardancy finish with an organophosphorus retardant on silk fabrics

    FIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 6 2006
    Jin-Ping Guan
    Abstract The paper mainly deals with flame retardancy of silk fabrics treated with a commercial organophosphorus flame retardant [N-hydroxymethyl (3-dimethyl phosphono) propionamide (HDPP), also known as Pyrovatex CP], using the pad-dry-cure-wash method. The structures and properties of the treated and control sample are discussed. The Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) value of the modified sample is above 30%. After 50 laundry cycles, it still has some flame retardancy left. HDPP and a cross-linking agent (HMM) were bound to silk fabrics which is confirmed by FT-IR spectra and amino analysis. The reaction degree of the flame retardant with silk is also high; almost all the tyrosine units have reacted, which can be confirmed by amino acid analysis. The reaction between flame retardant and silk only occurs in the amorphous region of silk fibre, which is confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis and amino acid analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis show that the flame retardant causes silk fabrics to decompose below its ignition temperature (600°C) and formed carbonaceous residue or char when exposed to fire. The char behaves as a thermal barrier to fire, so silk fabrics show good flame retardancy. The treatment has a little effect on the whiteness of the silk fabrics and the tensile strength of treated silk fabrics slightly decreased; both effects are negligible. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

    Divestitures, wealth effects and corporate governance

    ACCOUNTING & FINANCE, Issue 2 2010
    Sian Owen
    G32; G34 Abstract We analyse the market reaction to divestiture decisions and determine the impact of corporate governance practices. We find the market reaction is significant and can be determined using internal governance mechanisms. We evaluate the determinants of the decision to sell using a control sample of firms displaying characteristics often associated with divestitures indicating that these firms may face the same incentives to divest but elect not to restructure in this manner. Our results suggest that a combination of strong internal and external governance may force managers to act in a manner that is incompatible with their personal desires. [source]

    Private equity bids in Australia: an exploratory study

    ACCOUNTING & FINANCE, Issue 1 2010
    Larelle Chapple
    G34 Abstract In this study, we provide an insight into how private equity players choose their targets and the bid arrangements they prefer. We test our expectations of the unique features of private equity targets using a sample of 23 listed private equity target firms during 2001,2007. We find, relative to a benchmark sample of 81 corporate targets matched by year and industry, the private equity target firms to be larger, more profitable, use their assets more efficiently, more highly levered and have greater cash flow. Multivariate testing indicates that private equity targets have relatively greater financial slack, greater financial stability, greater free cash flow and lower measurable growth prospects. All conclusions are found to be robust to a control sample of 502 takeover bids during 2001,2007. [source]

    Adapting the logical basis of tests for Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium to the real needs of association studies in human and medical genetics

    GENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 7 2009
    Katrina A. B. Goddard
    Abstract The standard procedure to assess genetic equilibrium is a ,2 test of goodness-of-fit. As is the case with any statistical procedure of that type, the null hypothesis is that the distribution underlying the data is in agreement with the model. Thus, a significant result indicates incompatibility of the observed data with the model, which is clearly at variance with the aim in the majority of applications: to exclude the existence of gross violations of the equilibrium condition. In current practice, we try to avoid this basic logical difficulty by increasing the significance bound to the P -value (e.g. from 5 to 10%) and inferring compatibility of the data with Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE) from an insignificant result. Unfortunately, such direct inversion of a statistical testing procedure fails to produce a valid test of the hypothesis of interest, namely, that the data are in sufficiently good agreement with the model under which the P -value is calculated. We present a logically unflawed solution to the problem of establishing (approximate) compatibility of an observed genotype distribution with HWE. The test is available in one- and two-sided versions. For both versions, we provide tools for exact power calculation. We demonstrate the merits of the new approach through comparison with the traditional ,2 goodness-of-fit test in 2×60 genotype distributions from 43 published genetic studies of complex diseases where departure from HWE was noted in either the case or control sample. In addition, we show that the new test is useful for the analysis of genome-wide association studies. Genet. Epidemiol. 33:569,580, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

    Evaluation of Three Algorithms to Identify Incident Breast Cancer in Medicare Claims Data

    HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH, Issue 5 2007
    Heather T. Gold
    Objective. To test the validity of three published algorithms designed to identify incident breast cancer cases using recent inpatient, outpatient, and physician insurance claims data. Data. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry data linked with Medicare physician, hospital, and outpatient claims data for breast cancer cases diagnosed from 1995 to 1998 and a 5 percent control sample of Medicare beneficiaries in SEER areas. Study Design. We evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of three algorithms applied to new data compared with original reported results. Algorithms use health insurance diagnosis and procedure claims codes to classify breast cancer cases, with SEER as the reference standard. We compare algorithms by age, stage, race, and SEER region, and explore via logistic regression whether adding demographic variables improves algorithm performance. Principal Findings. The sensitivity of two of three algorithms is significantly lower when applied to newer data, compared with sensitivity calculated during algorithm development (59 and 77.4 percent versus 90 and 80.2 percent, p<.00001). Sensitivity decreases as age increases, and false negative rates are higher for cases with in situ, metastatic, and unknown stage disease compared with localized or regional breast cancer. Substantial variation also exists by SEER registry. There was potential for improvement in algorithm performance when adding age, region, and race to an indicator variable for whether the algorithm determined a subject to be a breast cancer case (p<.00001). Conclusions. Differential sensitivity of the algorithms by SEER region and age likely reflects variation in practice patterns, because the algorithms rely on administrative procedure codes. Depending on the algorithm, 3,5 percent of subjects overall are misclassified in 1998. Misclassification disproportionately affects older women and those diagnosed with in situ, metastatic, or unknown-stage disease. Algorithms should be applied cautiously to insurance claims databases to assess health care utilization outside SEER-Medicare populations because of uneven misclassification of subgroups that may be understudied already. [source]

    A Graphene Hybrid Material Covalently Functionalized with Porphyrin: Synthesis and Optical Limiting Property

    ADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 12 2009
    Yanfei Xu
    An organic solution-processable functionalized graphene (SPFGraphene) hybrid material with porphyrins is reported for the first time. FTIR, UV-vis absorption, and TEM studies confirm the covalent functionalization of the graphene. A superior optical limiting effect, better than the benchmark optical limiting material C60 and the control sample, is observed. [source]

    Self-Healing Polymers: Self-Healing Polymer Coatings (Adv. Mater.

    ADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 6 2009
    6/2009)
    Dramatic reduction in corrosion of a steel plate coated with a self-healing coating (right) as compared to a conventional coating is demonstrated. Two samples were scratched and placed in 5% NaCl for 5 days. The background is an optical image (2× magnification), in the foreground is an SEM image of the scratch. In the self-healing sample, the scratch has almost completely self-healed, while in the control sample, the scratch remains all the way down to the substrate, as reported by Paul Braun and co-workers on p.645. [source]

    Country-Specific Risk and the Cost and Benefit of Audit Quality: Evidence from Israeli Initial Public Offerings in the United States

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AUDITING, Issue 3 2002
    Edward B. Douthett Jr.
    We examine audit fees and returns to auditor reputation for Israeli entrepreneurs making initial public offerings (IPOs) of equity in U.S. capital markets. We find that the cost of audit quality in terms of audit fees is higher, and the benefit of audit quality in terms of IPO proceeds is lower for a sample of Israeli IPOs matched to a control sample of U.S. IPOs. The results suggest that the higher levels of country-specific risk in Israel are modifying the cost and benefits of audit quality for Israeli entrepreneurs selling securities in the U.S. [source]

    Effect of hydrogen peroxide treatment on the quality of raw cream

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DAIRY TECHNOLOGY, Issue 3 2000
    BARBAROS OZER
    The effect of hydrogen peroxide on the attributes of raw cream was studied. The samples with 500 mg/kg and 1500 mg/kg hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were compared with an untreated control sample. The results indicated that the addition of hydrogen peroxide prevented, to a great extent, the development of lipolysis, proteolysis and acidity, as well as the growth of psychrotrophic microorganisms. However, the treatment had a negative effect on the oxidative stability of the cream. [source]

    A case of mucosal leishmaniasis: beneficial usage of polymerase chain reaction for diagnosis

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 12 2001
    Hironori Onuma MD
    A 36-year-old woman, who had emigrated from Japan to Paraguay as a 4-year-old child before returning to Japan in 1991, visited our clinic on November 10, 1997. She had suffered from a persistent ulcer on her forearm as a 6-year-old child and received intravenous injections for a few months, although she did not remember the details of therapy. Since May 1997, she had been aware of redness and swelling on her nose and had been treated with topical corticosteroid, but no improvement had been noted. Physical examination revealed erythematous plaque with crust from the left internal naris to nasolabial region (Fig. 1a). The atrophic plaque that had resulted from prolonged ulceration was found on the right forearm (Fig. 1b). In a biopsy specimen from the erythematous plaque on the nasolabial region, mononuclear dermal infiltrate, consisting of lymphocytes and histiocytes, was seen (Fig. 2a). The histiocytes were filled with Leishman-Donovan (L-D) bodies on a Giemsa staining sample (Fig. 2b). Fiberscopic examination revealed white plaque in the pharynx. The biopsy from the affected mucosa showed the same histopathological finding as with the skin. Figure 1. (a) Erythematous plaque with crust from the left internal naris to nasolabial region. (b) Atrophic plaque on the right forearm Figure 2. (a) In the biopsy specimen from the erythematous plaque on the nasolabial region, a mononuclear dermal infiltrate consisting of lymphocytes and histiocytes was seen. (Hematoxylin-Eosin stain, × 100) (b) The histiocytes were filled with Leishman-Donovan bodies. (Giemsa staining, × 400) Total DNA was purified from the skin biopsy specimen for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis using a specific primer for L (V) braziliensis.1,2 A 70-bp product was amplified (Fig. 3a); furthermore, the specificity of the PCR product was confirmed by Southern hybridization with the probe for L (V) braziliensis (Fig. 3b) and DNA sequence analysis (data not shown). From December 2, 1997, the patient received 20 mg/kg/day sodium stibogluconate (PentostamTM) intravenously for 20 days. After 5 days of treatment, the redness and swelling of the skin lesion was improved, and faint erythema remained at the end of 20 days' treatment. After a 2-week interval, since the erythema remained, another 20-day treatment was performed. All of the skin lesion became scar tissue and L-D bodies could not be found in a skin biopsy specimen. However, L-D bodies were still found in a biopsy from the pharyngeal mucosa that had a normal appearance. Though another additional treatment was planned, the patient refused it. Figure 3. (a) The results of PCR. 70-bps bands appear in lanes 2 and 6. Lane 1, a size marker (pUC19/HapII); lane 2, DNA extracted from the formalin-fixed patient's sample; lane 3, DNA extracted from a formalin-fixed control sample; lane 4, DNA (,); lane 5, DNA extracted from L (V) tropica; lane 6, DNA extracted from L (V) braziliensis. (b) Results of Southern blotting using the PCR products. The PCR products were transferred from agarose gel as shown in Fig. 3 (a). Specific probes were hybridized with 70-bps bands on lanes 2 and 6 [source]

    Isolation of DNA from genetically modified oils by fast protein liquid chromatography

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 7 2010
    Li Huang
    Summary In this study, a novel method of fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) anion exchange chromatography was developed for isolation of DNA from processed genetically modified (GM) oils. Four kinds of different GM edible oil had been chosen as model sample. Salmon DNA was used as the control sample to determine the pH values and NaCl in mobile phase buffer. Applying pH 8 and NaCl gradient 0.5,2 m were chosen for the DNA isolation. The quality and purity of isolated DNA were tested with agarose gel electrophoresis, scanned with UV absorbance spectra and amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The result indicated that the quantity of DNA isolated by FPLC was suitable for further PCR analyses. Furthermore, it is more effective and less time-consuming in comparison with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide method and High Pure GMO Sample Preparation Kit method. [source]

    Effect of using interesterified and non-interesterified corn and palm oil blends on quality and fatty acid composition of Turkish White cheese

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 12 2007
    Issa Javidipour
    Summary Chemically interesterified blends (CIB) and non-interesterified blends (NIB) of corn and palm oils (75%w/25%w) were studied in the production of Turkish White cheese (TWC) to modify the fatty acid composition of traditional product. Milk fat (3%) was replaced by CIB and NIB for 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. All cheese groups were ripened at 5 °C for 90 days. Samples were taken from each group after 3, 30, 60 and 90 days and analysed for their basic composition, lipolysis and proteolysis. CIB-incorporated cheeses showed a higher degree of lipolysis than the control sample and the NIB-incorporated counterparts. Fatty acid composition and sensory properties of the final product showed that the incorporation of CIB and NIB in TWC improved the nutritional content of the product because it altered the fatty acid composition without any adverse effect on sensorial quality. We concluded that in production of TWC, 50% of milk fat could be successfully replaced with CIB and NIB, preferably CIB, because of its superior sensory quality. [source]

    Influence of natural fermentation on physico-chemical characteristics of rice noodles

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 5 2003
    Zhan-Hui Lu
    Summary The influence of fermentation of whole milled rice granules on the physico-chemical characteristics of rice starch and the rheological properties of rice noodles was investigated. The rice granule samples were fermented at 35 °C for 27 h. The results indicated that fermentation did not have a significant effect on the starch and amylose content of rice granules. Protein, lipid and ash content decreased whereas free fatty acid increased during fermentation. The rice noodles made from fermented samples had a lower maximum stress, 54 kPa, and higher maximum strain, 10.8%, and had a white, transparent appearance and favourable chewy mouth-feel compared with the control sample. [source]

    QUALITY OF BREAD SUPPLEMENTED WITH POPPED AMARANTHUS CRUENTUS GRAIN

    JOURNAL OF FOOD PROCESS ENGINEERING, Issue 5 2008
    A-SOLAROV, MARIJA BODRO
    ABSTRACT The addition of popped Amaranthus cruentus grain to wheat bread formulation at 10, 15 and 20% levels (flour basis) was carried out to test the effects on sensory and nutritional characteristics of the supplemented bread samples. The addition of popped amaranth grain increased ash, protein and crude fiber content significantly. Zinc content increased by 42.6,74.6%, manganese content by 51.7,90.8%, magnesium content by 75.7,88.0% and calcium content by 57,171% in the supplementation ranges from 10 to 20% of popped amaranth grain. Bread samples supplemented with popped grains had a significantly higher content of squalene in comparison with the control sample (8,12 times higher). Loaf volume of supplemented bread samples decreased from 3.54 to 2.36 mL/g. Also, a significant increase in crumb hardness and lower crumb elasticity was observed. The supplementation contributed to denser crumb structure, more uniform porosity, improved crust color and flavor. It might be concluded that supplementation levels up to 15% (flour basis) were sensorially acceptable. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Bread made from refined wheat flour, besides being a good source of energy, is considered to be nutritionally poor. Therefore, the addition of inexpensive staples with superior nutritional quality such as some pulses, cereals or pseudocereals to wheat flour could improve the nutritional quality of wheat products. Amaranth is a pseudocereal that contains high levels of fat, dietary fibers, lysine and minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. The addition of amaranth grain to wheat bread contributes to higher intakes of proteins, fibers, fat and minerals. The usage of popped amaranth grain is advantageous because it excludes the need for grain milling and the necessity for preparative steps before mixing in bakeries. In addition, thermal treatment increases the protein efficiency ratio and gelatinizes starch that affects positively the stability, strength and freshness of the crumb. Popped amaranth grain also contributes to the pleasant taste and overall acceptability of supplemented bread. [source]

    THE EFFECT OF ENZYMATIC MASH TREATMENT, PRESSING, CENTRIFUGATION, HOMOGENIZATION, DEAERATION, STERILIZATION AND STORAGE ON CARROT JUICE

    JOURNAL OF FOOD PROCESS ENGINEERING, Issue 4 2007
    HONGMEI LIAO
    ABSTRACT The enzyme preparation Pectinex Smash XXL was employed to macerate the carrot pulp, the effect of enzymatic mash treatment (EMT), pressing, centrifugation, homogenization, deaeration, sterilization and storage on carrot juice was investigated. As compared with the control sample, an increase of juice yield, total soluble solid (TSS) and carotenoids in carrot juice was close to 20%, 1% and 26 mg/kg, respectively, after EMT. The EMT also increased the color parameters CIEL*, a*and C*values in carrot juice. However, it significantly decreased the viscosity from 2.54 to 2.09 mPa·s. The centrifugation resulted in a significant decline in turbidity from 240.33 to 187.33 NTU and a significant increase in the color parameters in carrot juice. After homogenization, the turbidity and the carotenoids in carrot juice were significantly reduced from 187.33 to 161.67 NTU and from 61.87 to 58.76 mg/kg, respectively. The turbidity and carotenoids in carrot juice decreased during storage, and all the color parameters had a closer relationship with storage temperature and time; higher storage temperature and longer storage time caused greater loss of color. [source]

    PROCESSING AND ACCEPTABILITY OF FRIED CASSAVA BALLS ("AKARA-AKPU") SUPPLEMENTED WITH MELON AND SOYBEAN FLOURS

    JOURNAL OF FOOD PROCESSING AND PRESERVATION, Issue 2 2007
    CHIEMELA ENYINNAYA CHINMA
    ABSTRACT The processing and acceptability of fried cassava balls ("Akara-akpu") supplemented with melon and soybean flours were studied. Cassava flour, defatted soybean flour and cassava mash were produced. Some functional and chemical properties of the flours were determined. Akara-akpu prepared from 100% cassava mash served as control; 100% cassava flour, 80% cassava flour + 20% defatted soybean and 70% cassava flour + 30% defatted melon flour were prepared. Akara-akpu balls were subjected to chemical and physical analyses. Akara-akpu prepared from composite flour blends had higher protein, fat, ash and energy value than Akara-akpu from 100% cassava mash. The cyanide content and degree of starch gelatinization of Akara-akpu prepared from 100% cassava mash (control) were higher than Akara-akpu prepared from cassava mash plus composite flour blends. There was a significant difference (P , 0.05) in weight and yield between Akara-akpu prepared from 100% cassava mash (control) and cassava mash plus composite flour blends. There was no significant difference (P , 0.05) in volume between Akara-akpu made from control sample and those cassava plus composite flour blends. [source]

    EFFECT OF DIRECT APPLICATIONS OF SAGE (SALVIA OFFICINALIS L.) LEAVES ON OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF SUNFLOWER OIL DURING ACCELERATED STORAGE

    JOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 5 2009
    EDA ÇALIKO
    ABSTRACT In this study, various sage applications were examined on oxidative stability of sunflower oil during accelerated storage. There are three applications: (1) direct sage leaves (S); (2) deodorized sage leaves (DeS); and (3) essential oil of sage leaves. The main compounds of essential oil were identified as, -thujone (35.87%),, -thujone (14.41%), 1,8-cineol (10.59%) and camphor (10.09%). Oxidative stability of these three applications was tested by Schall Oven test at 60C applying peroxide value and conjugated dienes, and Rancimat at 110C. Whereas the highest antioxidants activity was found for 2% S followed by 0.5% S and 2% DeS, all sage treatments statistically retarded the oxidation compared with the control sample. The most appealing result was that the residue can be used as a natural antioxidants. That means the reuse of residue may decrease economic losses and health risk in comparison with synthetic antioxidants and extracts because it is completely natural and contains no residual solvent. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS While almost all of previous studies were concentrated on the use of herb extracts, our study investigates the results of direct application of sage on oxidation. Especially with this study, we have evaluated a possible application area for sage residue leftover after the deodorization process. [source]

    USE OF CLARIFYING AGENTS AND ULTRA FILTER TO DECREASE FUMARIC ACID, HMF AND INCREASE CLARITY OF APPLE JUICE

    JOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 3 2006
    YAHYA TULEK
    ABSTRACT In this study, the effects of eight different processing treatments of apple juice (AJ) production (Process 1: Ultra filtration [UF], Process 2: Activated charcoal [AC], Process 3: polyvinylpolypyrolidone [PVPP], Process 4: Gelatine [G] + Bentonite [B], Process 5: [G + B] + UF, Process 6: [G + B] + AC, Process 7: [G + B] + PVPP and Process 8: [G + B] + Kieselguhr [K]) on the fumaric acid (FA), hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), color and clearness values of AJ were investigated. With the exception of Processes 1 and 5, AC, K, PVPP, G and B were used at various doses in other processes. FA, HMF, color and clearness values of control sample were determined as 3.24 mg/L, 3.84 mg/L, 48.5 (%T) and 94.1 (%T), respectively. The highest proportional decrement in FA and HMF values of the samples were observed with Process 6 at the level of 5. The fifth level of Process 6 resulted in 35.8% (3.24,2.08 mg/L) and 35.9% (3.84 to 2.46 mg/L) reductions in FA and HMF values, respectively. On the other hand, the best improvement in clearness of AJ was obtained with Process 6 at the fourth level and obtained as 98.9 (%T). [source]

    Malonyl CoA decarboxylase deficiency: C to T transition in intron 2 of the MCD gene

    JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH, Issue 6 2001
    Sankar Surendran
    Abstract Malonyl CoA decarboxylase (MCD) is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of fatty acids synthesis. Based on reports of MCD deficiency, this enzyme is particular important in muscle and brain metabolism. Mutations in the MCD gene result in a deficiency of MCD activity, that lead to psychomotor retardation, cardiomyopathy and neonatal death. To date however, only a few patients have been reported with defects in MCD. We report here studies of a patient with MCD deficiency, who presented with hypotonia, cardiomyopathy and psychomotor retardation. DNA sequencing of MCD revealed a homozygous intronic mutation, specifically a ,5 C to T transition near the acceptor site for exon 3. RT-PCR amplification of exons 2 and 3 revealed that although mRNA from a normal control sample yielded one major DNA band, the mutant mRNA sample resulted in two distinct DNA fragments. Sequencing of the patient's two RT-PCR products revealed that the larger molecular weight fragments contained exons 2 and 3 as well as the intervening intronic sequence. The smaller size band from the patient contained the properly spliced exons, similar to the normal control. Western blotting analysis of the expressed protein showed only a faint band in the patient sample in contrast to a robust band in the control. In addition, the enzyme activity of the mutant protein was lower than that of the control protein. The data indicate that homozygous mutation in intron 2 disrupt normal splicing of the gene, leading to lower expression of the MCD protein and MCD deficiency. J. Neurosci. Res. 65:591,594, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]