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Selected AbstractsEffect of A-Site Ionic Radius on the Structure and Microwave Dielectric Characteristics of Sr1+xSm1,xAl1,xTixO4 CeramicsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF APPLIED CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY, Issue 2010Min Min Mao SrSmAlO4 microwave dielectric ceramics were modified by Sr/Ti cosubstitution for Sm/Al. The effects of radius difference of A-site ions on the microwave dielectric characteristics were investigated together with the structure. Sr1+xSm1,xAl1,xTixO4 (x=0, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15) ceramics were prepared by a solid-state reaction approach. X-ray diffraction studies revealed a single-phase K2NiF4 -type solid solution with corresponding peaks shifting to lower 2, as x increased. Minor inhomogeneous grain morphology for x=0.05 and a trace amount of second phases for x=0.10, 0.15 were detected by backscattered-electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. With increasing Sr/Ti cosubstitution, the dielectric constant ,r increased from 18.4 to 20.4, and the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency ,f was adjusted from ,1.8 to 7.4 ppm/°C almost linearly. However, the Q×f value decreased from 74,500 GHz at x=0,53,000 GHz at x=0.15. The internal stresses caused by the decreased tolerance factor and the large ionic radii difference between Sr2+ and Sm3+ should be the predominant reasons for such a decrease in the Q×f value. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopic results revealed an increase in the lattice distortion with increasing Sr/Ti cosubstitution, and subsequently supported the above conclusion upon the increased internal stresses. [source] Effects of low dose gamma irradiation on microbial inactivation and physicochemical properties of fried shrimp (Penaeus vannamei)INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 6 2010He Wang Summary Changes in microbiological, physicochemical and sensory properties of shrimp gamma irradiated with 60Co at doses of 0, 1, 3, 6, 9 kGy were investigated. Irradiation at 6 kGy eliminated most of the spoilage microorganisms and did not affect sensory quality. The L* value increased as irradiation dose increased, while a* value decreased as irradiation dose increased. Irradiation had no significant effect on the texture of shrimp samples; however, increasing the dose up to 9 kGy significantly increased the amount of volatile compounds, such as, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, furans, and oxides. According to the total sensory points, the appearance and flavour of the shrimp product was considered as acceptable by sensory evaluation when irradiated at doses of 0,6 kGy. These results showed that gamma irradiation processing (<6 kGy) had the potential to extend the shelf life of fried shrimp. [source] Effect of supplemental yeast culture and sodium bicarbonate on ruminal fermentation and blood variables in ramsJOURNAL OF ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY AND NUTRITION, Issue 11-12 2006Nurten Gal Summary A trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of sodium bicarbonate (BC) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, live yeast culture (yea sacc1026, YS) on ruminal fermentation and blood variables. Four Kivircik rams with ruminal cannula were used in a Latin square design, during 27-day periods (20 days for adaptation and 7 days for collection). They received 0 (control group), 5 g/day (i.e. 25 × 109 CFU) of YS or 10 g/day of sodium BC or 10 g/day of BC and 5 g/day of YS (BC + YS) (treatment groups). The cultures and sodium BC were added to the ration in a grain mix. The ration consisted of 70% grain mix and 30% lucerne hay. Rumen contents were collected before and 3 h and 6 h after morning feeding on days 1 and 7 in each collection period and were analyzed. Blood samples were also collected on the same days. Ruminal pH at 3 h (p , 0.1) and 6 h (p , 0.05) after feeding were higher when rams were fed BC and BC + YS than when they were fed CG and YS. Addition of YS to the diet did not modify the proportions of the different protozoa types; only Diplodinium at 0 h tended to be lower (p < 0.1) when rams were fed YS, BC and BC + YS than when they were fed CG. Plasma sodium value decreased by YS and BC + YS. Other biochemical and haematological variables were not affected by treatments. Also total volatile fatty acid, NH3 -N concentrations and protozoa counts in the ruminal fluid were not affected by treatments. [source] Preparation and properties of polyethoxysilsesquioxane-C60 hybridsJOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE (IN TWO SECTIONS), Issue 15 2007Takahiro Gunji Abstract Free-standing films of C60 -polyethoxysiloxane hybrids were prepared, and their optical limiting properties were evaluated. Triethoxysilylated C60, with a formula of H3C60[Si(OEt)3]3, was synthesized by the hydrolysilylation of C60 with triethoxysilane in the presence of platinum catalyst. C60 -polyethoxysiloxanes were prepared by a cohydrolytic polycondensation of triethoxysilylated C60 with tetraethoxysilane in a molar ratio of Si/C60 = 10,1000 under nitrogen flow. The molecular weight of C60 -polyethoxysiloxane increased with a decrease of Si/C60. Transparent and flexible free-standing films were prepared by aging an ethanol solution of C60 -polyethoxysiloxane at 80 °C for 6,8 days. The mechanical strength and Young's modulus increased with a decrease in Si/C60. These free-standing films showed an optical limiting property, for which the threshold value decreased from 1163 mJ/cm2 (Si/C60 = 1000) to 130 mJ/cm2 (Si/C60 = 10) with a decrease of Si/C60. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 3273,3279, 2007 [source] Monte Carlo Simulation of Degradation of Porous Poly(lactide) Scaffolds, 1MACROMOLECULAR THEORY AND SIMULATIONS, Issue 9 2006Effect of Porosity on pH Abstract Summary: Monte Carlo method was used to simulate the degradation of porous PLA scaffolds. The simulated volume was assumed to be divided homogeneously between the pore and solid PLA with the ratio equal to the bulk porosity of the scaffold. The volume was divided into surface and bulk elements where the surface elements were in direct contact with the aqueous degradation medium, while the bulk elements were surrounded by the pore and solid PLA. The effect of degradation time on PLA ester groups and carboxylic acid end-groups for surface and bulk elements, pH, PLA degradation rate and mass loss, and PLA molecular weight distribution was simulated. For surface elements, pH remained constant at 7.4 over the entire time of degradation, while for bulk elements its value decreased significantly to as low as 5.8. The highest drop in pH within the scaffold was observed for the highest porosity of 90%. There was a lag time of at least 7 weeks in the mass loss for surface as well as bulk elements for porosities ranging from 70 to 90%. The mass loss for bulk elements was considerably faster than the surface elements. This difference in the rate of mass loss between the surface and bulk elements could affect the 3D morphology and dimensional stability of the scaffold in vivo as degradation proceeds. The simulation predicts that, due to differences in the rate of bulk and surface degradation, hollow structures could form inside the scaffold after 19, 17, and 15 weeks for initial porosities of 70, 80, and 90%, respectively. A schematic diagram illustrating the degradation of an element on the outer surface of the scaffold (surface element) versus an element within the volume of the scaffold (bulk element). [source] Impact of Preceding Ventricular Premature Beats on Heart Rate TurbulenceANNALS OF NONINVASIVE ELECTROCARDIOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Hung Yi Chen M.D. Background: Heart rate turbulence (HRT) has recently been introduced as a noninvasive tool for studying autonomic dysfunction. It presented short time fluctuation of sinus cycle length following single ventricular premature contraction (VPC). However, HRT parameters may be influenced by different factors. This study aimed to evaluate the possible influence of VPC frequency on HRT. Methods: 24-h Holter recording was performed in patients with VPCs initially detected by 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) in the outpatient department. The numbers of VPCs in 2- and 5-minute durations preceding each VPC tachogram were calculated. The HRT parameters and the numbers of the VPCs preceding VPC tachograms were analyzed. Results: There were 23,122 available VPC tachograms from 107 healthy subjects included in the study. The turbulence onset (TO) value increased and the turbulence slope (TS) value decreased as VPC's frequency increased. The TO values rapidly increased when the number of VPCs was >15 beats in the 2-minute and >35 beats in the 5-minute durations. There was also a prominent decrease in TS values when the VPCs reached 14 and 30 beats in the 2- and 5-minute durations, respectively. Conclusion: Physiologic baroreflex may be attenuated under intensive stimulation, which is evidenced by blunted HRT parameters by frequent VPCs. Physiologic response to VPC's frequency may be related to baroreflex fatigue and is demonstrated as a sigmoid curve. [source] Effects of high carbohydrate and high lipid diets on growth, body composition and glucose metabolism in southern catfish at two temperaturesAQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 10 2010Yiping Luo Abstract The effects of high carbohydrate and high lipid diets on the growth, body composition and glucose metabolism in the southern catfish were determined at 17.5 °C and 27.5 °C. At each temperature, the feeding rate, specific growth rate and protein productive value decreased with increasing dietary carbohydrate (P<0.05). Feed efficiency and protein efficiency ratio were lower in the fish fed a high dietary carbohydrate diet at 17.5 °C, but were not significantly different between diets at 27.5 °C. Plasma glucose and activities of pyruvate kinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were higher in fish reared at 27.5 °C than those reared at 17.5 °C, and within each temperature, they were higher in fish fed the high-carbohydrate diet. Hepatosomatic index was higher in fish fed the high-carbohydrate diet than those fed the high-lipid diet at 27.5 °C, but no significant difference was found at 17.5 °C. The results indicate that higher temperatures enhance glycogen deposition and lipogenous enzyme activities when fed with a high-carbohydrate diet; thus, at higher temperatures, this fish uses carbohydrate more efficiently for protein sparing. [source] Substrate-Dependent Modulation of UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1) by Propofol in Recombinant Human UGT1A1 and Human Liver MicrosomesBASIC AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY, Issue 3 2007Yuji Mano In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of activation, and whether the stimulatory effect occurs when another substrate is used with human liver microsomes. The glucuronidation of 4-MU followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics with a Km value of 101 µM in the absence of propofol. In the presence of 200 µM propofol, a concentration that causes heterotopic activation of 4-MU glucuronidation (4-MUG), the Vmax value increased to 1.5-fold, while the Km value decreased to 0.53-fold. In order to assess whether propofol activates UGT1A1 activity for a substrate other than 4-MU, the effect of propofol on oestradiol 3,-glucuronidation by recombinant UGT1A1 and in human liver microsomes was evaluated. In contrast to 4-MUG activity, propofol inhibited UGT1A1-catalysed oestradiol 3,-glucuronidation in recombinant UGT1A1 as well as in human liver microsomes with IC50 values of 59 and 228 µM, respectively. In addition, a known UGT1A1 modulator, 17,-ethynyloestradiol, stimulated oestradiol 3,-glucuronidation slightly at a concentration of 5 µM, while it inhibited 4-MUG in recombinant UGT1A1 at all concentrations tested (5,100 µM). These findings indicate that the modulation of UGT1A1 by propofol is substrate-dependent, and thus care should be taken when extrapolating the stimulatory effects of drugs for one glucuronidation substrate. [source] The usage of a simplified self-titration dosing guideline (303 Algorithm) for insulin detemir in patients with type 2 diabetes , results of the randomized, controlled PREDICTIVEÔ 303 studyDIABETES OBESITY & METABOLISM, Issue 6 2007L. Meneghini The Predictable Results and Experience in Diabetes through Intensification and Control to Target: An International Variability Evaluation 303 (PREDICTIVEÔ 303) Study (n = 5604) evaluated the effectiveness of insulin detemir, a long-acting basal insulin analogue, using a simplified patient self-adjusted dosing algorithm (303 Algorithm group) compared with standard-of-care physician-driven adjustments (Standard-of-care group) in a predominantly primary care setting, over a period of 6 months. Insulin detemir was to be started once-daily as add-on therapy to any other glucose-lowering regimens or as a replacement of prestudy basal insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes. Investigator sites rather than individual patients were randomized to either the 303 Algorithm group or the Standard-of-care group. Patients from the 303 Algorithm group sites were instructed to adjust their insulin detemir dose every 3 days based on the mean of three ,adjusted' fasting plasma glucose (aFPG) values (capillary blood glucose calibrated to equivalent plasma glucose values) using a simple algorithm: mean aFPG < 80 mg/dl (<4.4 mmol/l), reduce dose by 3 U; aFPG between 80 and 110 mg/dl (4.4,6.1 mmol/l), no change; and aFPG > 110 mg/dl (>1.1 mmol/l), increase dose by 3 U. The insulin detemir dose for patients in the Standard-of-care group was adjusted by the investigator according to the standard of care. Mean A1C decreased from 8.5% at baseline to 7.9% at 26 weeks for the 303 Algorithm group and from 8.5 to 8.0% for the Standard-of-care group (p = 0.0106 for difference in A1C reduction between the two groups). Mean FPG values decreased from 175 mg/dl (9.7 mmol/l) at baseline to 141 mg/dl (7.8 mmol/l) for the 303 Algorithm group and decreased from 174 mg/dl (9.7 mmol/l) to 152 mg/dl (8.4 mmol/l) for the Standard-of-care group (p < 0.0001 for difference in FPG reduction between the two groups). Mean body weight remained the same at 26 weeks in both groups (change from baseline 0.1 and ,0.2 kg for the 303 Algorithm group and the Standard-of-care group respectively). At 26 weeks, 91% of the patients in the 303 Algorithm group and 85% of the patients in the Standard-of-care group remained on once-daily insulin detemir administration. The rates of overall hypoglycaemia (events/patient/year) decreased significantly from baseline in both groups [from 9.05 to 6.44 for the 303 Algorithm group (p = 0.0039) and from 9.53 to 4.95 for the Standard-of-care group (p < 0.0001)]. Major hypoglycaemic events were rare in both groups (0.26 events/patient/year for the 303 Algorithm group and 0.20 events/patient/year for the Standard-of-care group; p = 0.2395). In conclusion, patients in the 303 Algorithm group achieved comparable glycaemic control with higher rate of hypoglycaemia as compared with patients in the Standard-of-care group, possibly because of more aggressive insulin dose adjustments. The vast majority of the patients in both groups were effectively treated with once-daily insulin detemir therapy. The use of insulin detemir in this predominantly primary care setting achieved significant improvements in glycaemic control with minimal risk of hypoglycaemia and no weight gain. [source] An in vitro comparison of adhesive systems to seal pulp chamber wallsINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 5 2004B. Ozturk Abstract Aim, To compare in vitro the sealing properties of five different dentine adhesive materials (Prime&Bond NT (PBNT); Prompt L-Pop (PLP); Clearfil SE Bond (CSEB); Scotchbond Multi Purpose Plus (SMPP); EBS-Multi (EBSM)) inside the pulp chamber. Methodology, Seventy-five recently extracted human molar teeth were used. The roof of the pulp chambers and roots were removed under water cooling. Pulp tissue was removed, and the canal orifices were sealed. The pulp chambers were then treated with 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 1 min. The teeth were randomly divided into five groups of 15 teeth each. Adhesive systems were applied to the pulp chamber walls according to the manufacturers' instructions. The samples were connected to Plexiglass plates, and a fluid filtration method was used for quantitative evaluation of leakage. Measurements of fluid movement were made at 2-min intervals for 8 min. The quality of seal of each specimen was measured immediately, after 24 h, 1 week and 1 month. The data were statistically analysed by repeated-measurements multivariate anova, Friedman test, Wilcoxon signed rank test, Kruskal,Wallis of one-way anova and Mann,Whitney U -tests. The pulp chamber wall with and without NaOCl and resin,dentine interfaces of specimens were observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results, The leakage values of the materials were significantly different at different measurement periods. In all groups, leakage values decreased with time (P < 0.05). PBNT and PLP had the least leakage during immediate measurements (P < 0.05). After 1 month, leakage of all adhesive systems was not significantly different (P < 0.05). SEM observation of pulp chamber walls demonstrated that the irregular dentine surface without smear layer was present in the nontreated group. However, NaOCl application removed the collagen fibrils leaving the dentine surface smooth. At resin,dentine interfaces of specimens, no hybridization zone was observed. Conclusions, None of the materials had created a perfect seal to the pulp chamber walls. PBNT and PLP had better sealing over the short term, but over the long term, there were no differences between the materials. [source] Fat, wheat bran and salt effects on cooking properties of meat patties studied by response surface methodologyINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 10 2010Hasibe Tekin Summary Response surface methodology was used to investigate the main effects and interactions of composition (processing) variables such as fat (10,30%), wheat bran (5,15%) and NaCl (0,2%) on cooking properties of beef patties. In addition, the ridge analysis was conducted to find the values of processing variables that maximise and minimise the cooking parameters (moisture retention, fat retention, reduction in thickness, reduction in diameter, cooking yield, shrinkage and water-holding capacity). It was found that the moisture and fat retention, reduction in thickness and cooking yield values decreased; however, reduction in diameter and shrinkage values increased, respectively, as the amount of fat increased. However, wheat bran addition increased fat retention, moisture retention, cooking yield and water-holding capacity values of the patties. Increasing NaCl levels decreased water-holding capacity value by its quadratic effect and moisture and fat retention value by its interaction effect with wheat bran. [source] Effect of pre-freezing and solutes on mass transfer during osmotic dehydration and colour of oven-dried African star apple during storageINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 4 2007Kolawole O. Falade Summary The effects of freezing, solutes (glucose and sucrose) and concentrations (44, 52 and 60 °Bx) on water loss and solid gain during osmotic dehydration and on CIE colour parameters, colour intensity (,E) and chroma (,C), of osmo-oven-dried African star apple pulp during storage were investigated. Water loss and solid gain were higher in fruits immersed in glucose solutions than in sucrose solutions. Freeze-thawed fruits recorded a rapid increase in water loss and solid gain within 30 min of immersion when compared with the fresh African star apple that showed higher water loss after 2,3 h of immersion. Generally, L* value increased in the osmo-air-dried African star apple preosmosed in glucose and sucrose solution while a* and b* values decreased during storage. Higher colour intensity and chroma values were recorded in air-dried African Star apple preosmosed in glucose solution than in sucrose solution. [source] Correlation and agreement between the bispectral index vs. state entropy during hypothermic cardio-pulmonary bypassACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2010P. MEYBOHM Background: The bispectral index (BIS) and spectral entropy enable monitoring the depth of anaesthesia. Mild hypothermia has been shown to affect the ability of electroencephalography monitors to reflect the anaesthetic drug effect. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of hypothermia during a cardio-pulmonary bypass on the correlation and agreement between the BIS and entropy variables compared with normothermic conditions. Methods: This prospective clinical study included coronary artery bypass grafting patients (n=25) evaluating correlation and agreement (Bland,Altman analysis) between the BIS and both spectral and response entropy during a hypothermic cardio-pulmonary bypass (31,34 °C) compared with nomothermic conditions (34,37.5 °C). Anaesthesia was maintained with propofol and sufentanil and adjusted clinically, while the anaesthetist was blinded to the monitors. Results: The BIS and entropy values decreased during cooling (P<0.05), but the decrease was more pronounced for entropy variables compared with BIS (P<0.05). The correlation coefficients (bias±SD; percentage error) between the BIS vs. spectral state entropy and response entropy were r2=0.56 (1±11; 42%) and r2=0.58 (,2±11; 43%) under normothermic conditions, and r2=0.17 (10±12; 77%) and r2=0.18 (9±11; 68%) under hypothermic conditions, respectively. Bias was significantly increased under hypothermic conditions (P<0.001 vs. normothermia). Conclusion: Acceptable agreement was observed between the BIS and entropy variables under normothermic but not under hypothermic conditions. The BIS and entropy variables may therefore not be interchangeable during a hypothermic cardio-pulmonary bypass. [source] Nutritional evaluation of fermented black gram (Phaseolus mungo) seed meal in compound diets for rohu, Labeo rohita (Hamilton), fingerlingsJOURNAL OF APPLIED ICHTHYOLOGY, Issue 1 2007S. Ramachandran Summary Six isonitrogenous (approximately 35% crude protein) and isocaloric (approximately 4.0 kcal g,1) diets were formulated incorporating raw and fermented black gram, Phaseolus mungo, seed meal at 20%, 30% and 40% levels by weight into a fishmeal-based control diet fed to rohu, Labeo rohita, fingerlings (mean weight, 1.81 ± 0.21 g) for 80 days for a study of fish performance. A particular bacterial strain (Bacillus sp.) isolated from the intestine of adult common carp (Cyprinus carpio) reared in the wild having significant amylolytic, cellulolytic, lipolytic and proteolytic activities was used for fermentation of seed meal for 15 days at 37 ± 2°C. Fermentation of P. mungo seed meal was effective in significantly reducing the crude fibre content and antinutritional factors such as tannins and phytic acid, and enhancing available free amino acids and fatty acids. In terms of growth, feed conversion ratio and protein efficiency ratio, the 30% fermented black gram seed meal incorporated diet resulted in a significantly (P < 0.05) better performance of rohu fingerlings. In general, growth and feed utilization efficiencies of diets containing fermented seed meal were superior to diets containing raw seed meal. The apparent protein digestibility (APD) values decreased with increasing levels of raw seed meal in the diets. The APD for raw seed meal was lower at all levels of inclusion in comparison to those for the fermented seed meals. The maximum deposition of protein in the carcass was recorded in fish fed the diet containing 40% fermented seed meal. The results indicate that fermented black gram seed meal can be incorporated in carp diets up to the 30% level compared to the 10% level of raw seed meal. [source] The effect of body size on food consumption, absorption efficiency, respiration, and ammonia excretion by the inland silverside, Menidia beryllina (Cope) (Osteichthyes: Atherinidae)JOURNAL OF APPLIED ICHTHYOLOGY, Issue 4 2003M. A. Peck Summary The inland silverside, Menidia beryllina (Cope), is an annual zooplanktivore that occurs in estuarine and freshwater habitats along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts and drainages of the United States. Experiments were conducted at 25 ± 1°C to quantify the relationship between mean dry weight (WD) and rates of energy gain from food consumption (C), and energy losses as a result of respiration (R) and ammonia excretion (E) during routine activity and feeding by groups of fish. The absorption efficiency of ingested food energy (A) was also quantified. Rates of C, E, and R increased with WD by factors (b in the equation y = aWDb) equal to 0.462, 0.667, and 0.784, respectively. Mean (±SE) rates of energy loss during feeding were 1.6 ± 0.1 (R) and 3.4 ± 0.6 (E) times greater than those for unfed fish. Absorption efficiency was independent of WD and estimated to be 89% of C. From these measurements, the surplus energy available for growth and activity (G) and growth efficiency (K1) were estimated. Over the range in sizes of juveniles and adults (5,500 mg WD), predicted G and K1 values decreased from 7.42 to 0.20 J mg fish,1 day,1 and 63 to 21%, respectively. Measured and predicted bioenergetic parameters are discussed within an ecological context for a northern population of this species. [source] Accelerating aging of zirconia femoral head implants: Change of surface structure and mechanical propertiesJOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH, Issue 2 2007S. Chowdhury Abstract Recently, alternations of zirconia ceramic femoral heads of total hip prostheses during in vivo conditions have caused concern in the medical disciplines regarding phase transformation of zirconia prosthetic components. In this paper, we have investigated the mechanical and structural properties of different laboratory aged zirconia femoral heads and correlated changes in mechanical properties with the phase compositions of the sample. From laser microscope observation, cross-sectional Scanning electron microscopy imaging, and X-ray diffraction analysis on the surface of the zirconia femoral heads, we found monoclinic to tetragonal phase transformation in zirconia prostheses over time during the aging process in the laboratory. Mechanical properties, mainly hardness (H) and Young's modulus (E) values, were measured by nanoindentation technique on the surface of these implants. The results showed that both H and E values decreased with increased monoclinic phase in zirconia, thus confirming a phase transformation over time during aging. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2006 [source] Tower Climbing Exercise Started 3 Months After Ovariectomy Recovers Bone Strength of the Femur and Lumbar Vertebrae in Aged Osteopenic Rats,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2003Takuya Notomi Abstract To determine both the preventive and recovery effects of tower climbing exercise on mass, strength, and local turnover of bone in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, we carried out two experiments. In experiment I, 60 Sprague-Dawley rats, 12 months of age, were assigned to four groups: a Baseline Control, Sham-Operated Sedentary, OVX-Sedentary and OVX-Exercise rats. Rats voluntarily climbed a 200-cm tower to drink water from a bottle set at the top. At 3 months, OVX elevated both the femoral cortex and lumbar trabecular turnover, leading to a reduction in bone mass and strength. However, in OVX-Exercise rats, those values were maintained at the same level as in the Sham-Sedentary rats. Thus, the climbing exercise, started after 3 days of OVX, prevented OVX-induced cortical and trabecular bone loss by depressing turnover elevation. After confirming the preventive effect, we evaluated the recovery effect of exercise. In experiment II, 90 Sprague-Dawley rats, 12 months of age, were assigned to six groups: a Baseline control, two groups of Sham-Operated Sedentary and OVX-Sedentary, and OVX-Exercise rats. The exercise started 3 months after the OVX operation. At 3 months, OVX increased the trabecular bone formation rate and osteoclast surface, leading to a decrease in compressive strength. In the midfemur, the cross-sectional area, moment of inertia, and bending load values decreased. At 6 months, in the OVX-Exercise rats, the parameters of breaking load in both the lumbar and midfemur, lumbar bone mass, and the total cross-sectional area recovered to the same levels as those in the Sham-Sedentary rats. However, the cortical bone area did not recover. Periosteal bone formation increased, while endosteal bone formation decreased. These results showed that the climbing exercise had both a preventive and recovery effect on bone strength in OVX rats. In the mid-femur, effects on bone formation were site-specific, and the cross-sectional morphology was improved without an increase in cortical bone area, supporting cortical drift by mechanical stimulation. [source] Chemotherapy: the effect of oral cryotherapy on the development of mucositisJOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 6 2005erife Karagözo, lu MSc Aims and objective., The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of oral cryotherapy on the development of chemotherapy-induced mucositis in patients administered combined chemotherapy. Background., Mucositis has been of interest to scientists for more than 20 years. Unfortunately, this has not resulted in the development of standard procedures for prevention and management. To cope with this side-effect and to prevent opportunistic infections that may emerge during treatment, attempts are taken to provide preventative and comfort measures. In this context, cryotherapy (oral cooling) has become popular as a cheap and readily applicable method in preventing the developing due the rapid infusion of chemotherapy agents, or decreasing its severity. Design and method., Study involved 60 patients, 30 of whom were in the study group and 30 in the control group. Ice cubes at a size that can be moved easily in the mouth and whose corners have been smoothed in order that they will not cause irritation in the mouth has been used in oral cryotherapy in the study group. Oral chemotherapy was initiated five minutes before chemotherapy and maintained during venous infusions of etoposide (Vepesid®), platinol (Cisplatin®), mitomycin (Mitomycin-C®) and vinblastin (Velbe®) depending on the chemotherapy course. Results., According to Patient-Judged Mucositis Grading, the rate of mucositis is 36.7% in study group and 90.0% in control group, the difference between two groups being statistically significant (P < 0.05). According to Physician-Judged Mucositis Grading, the rate of mucositis is 10.0% in the study group and 50.0% in the control group, the difference between two groups being statistically significant (P < 0.05). Oral pH values decreased in 90% of the subjects in study group, i.e. mucositis risk was reduced whereas oral pH values remained unchanged or decreased in 86.7% of the subjects in the control group, namely mucositis risk increased. The difference between study and control groups in terms of the change in pH values after chemotherapy was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion., Our findings have demonstrated that oral cryotherapy makes an important contribution to the protection of oral health by reducing the mucositis score according to patient- and physician-judged mucositis score and by increasing oral pH values. Relevance to clinical practice., Aggressive cancer therapy places patients at greater risk for oral complications and treatment-related consequences. Unfortunately, prevention and/or treatment of such oral sequelae have often become overlooked as priorities of the treatment team. Effective approaches for the prevention or treatment of oral mucositis have not been standardized, and vary considerably among institutions. Prophylactic measures begin with an increased emphasis on improved oral status. Oral cryotherapy, the therapeutic administration of cold, is a prophylactic measure for oral inflammation. The relevance for clinical practice will be to understand the content of mucositis; comprehensive care should focus on the prevention of this complication in the clinical practice. [source] EFFECTS of PULSED ELECTRIC FIELD ON QUALITY FACTORS and MASS TRANSFER DURING OSMOTIC DEHYDRATION of APPLESJOURNAL OF FOOD PROCESS ENGINEERING, Issue 1 2003KEHINDE A. TAIWO ABSTRACT High intensity electric field pulses using varying field strengths (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 kV/cm corresponding to 12, 48 and 192 J/kg, per pulse, respectively, with a pulse duration of 400,s) and pulse numbers (2 to 50) were applied to apple slices as a pretreatment to study their influence on mass transfer during osmotic dehydration (OD). Cell membrane permeabilzation increased with increasing field strength and higher pulse number. Higher water loss and solids gain were obtained at 1.0 kV/cm. Pretreated apples turned brown but sample brightness improved with OD time but L values decreased with increasing pulse number. Maximum deformative force and amount of strain experienced by dried samples were influenced by both the field strength and OD time. Vitamin C content of dried samples reduced at higher field strengths and longer immersion times. [source] EFFECT OF HIGH HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE ON SPORES OF GEOBACILLUS STEAROTHERMOPHILUS SUSPENDED IN SOYMILKJOURNAL OF FOOD PROCESSING AND PRESERVATION, Issue 5 2007YOKIUSHIRDHILGILMARA ESTRADA-GIRÓN ABSTRACT The inactivation of Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores (ATCC 7953) inoculated in soymilk was investigated using high hydrostatic pressure (550, 585 and 620 MPa) in combination with temperature (70, 80 and 90C) for selected times (2 s to 15 min). Inactivation of spores occurred at all selected treatments. Less than 10 CFU/mL of G. stearothermophilus were observed after 7 min of treatment at 620 MPa and 90C. An increase in the inactivation rate constant, at the highest pressure, was observed, resulting in a decrease in D values at all temperatures. D values were calculated as 10.6, 6.2 and 3.5 min for 70, 80 and 90C, respectively after pressurization at 620 MPa. zp values decreased as temperature increased with values ranging from 142 to 238 MPa. The activation energy required for inactivation of G. stearothermophilus spores in soymilk, at the selected treatments, was in the range of 37.9,57.4 kJ/mol. [source] EFFECT OF PENTOSANASE ON DOUGH AND BREAD PROPERTIES PRODUCED BY DIFFERENT TYPES OF FLOURSJOURNAL OF FOOD QUALITY, Issue 2 2008ÖZKAN KOYUNCU ABSTRACT The effects of pentosanase at different doses (20, 60 and 100 ppm) on physical dough properties and bread quality were studied using three types of wheat flours. Flour A was a regular bread flour, flour B had a high hardness ratio and protein content, and flour C was prepared from the same blend of flour A but had a high extraction ratio. Regarding farinograph data, water absorption values of the high extraction (86%) flour C and high hardness (65%) blend flour B increased with introduction of pentosanase. Extensibility values of the flours increased moderately with pentosanase addition, while resistance and energy values decreased. The volume of breads made with flours C and B decreased upon addition of pentosanase. But loaf volume of breads prepared with regular bread flour A with 50% hardness and 76% extraction rate increased with high levels of pentosanase addition. In conclusion, flour A as a regular bread flour gave satisfactory results with pentosanase supplementations, whereas the harder-blend (65%) and higher-extraction-rate (85%) flours from the same cultivars did not. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Pentosanase addition was more effective on soluble pentosans than on insoluble ones. Because of these effects, it enhanced the bread-making properties of regular flour more effectively than those of the high-extraction and harder-blend flours of the same cultivars. [source] Retail Shelf-Life of Pork Dipped in Organic Acid before Modified Atmosphere or Vacuum PackagingJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 8 2005Nai-Yun Huang ABSTRACT Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is increasingly popular for meat, but raw, chilled pork in vacuum or anoxic environments has a purple color. The retail shelf-life of pork chops dipped in 500 ppm ascorbic acid, 250 ppm citric acid, or no acid dip and stored at 1 °C before simulated retail display in MAP with gas exchange or air-permeable packaging after vacuum pouch storage was determined. The 80% N2:20% CO2 in MAP was exchanged with 80% O2:20% CO2, and chops were removed from vacuum packages and overwrapped with permeable film (VP-PVC) on the 7th day before simulated retail display at 4 °C. Shelf-life traits were determined at 1, 7, 8, 10, 12, and 14 d postpackaging. The pH values changed with time, but returned to post-dipped, prepackaged levels at the end of simulated retail storage. Weight loss of chops increased (P < 0.05) in VP-PVC compared with MAP. The a* values increased (P < 0.05) and L* and b* values decreased during simulated retail display, with higher L*, a*, and b* color values for chops in MAP than VP-PVC. Log numbers of psychrotrophic microorganisms were higher (P < 0.05) on VP-PVC samples than for chops in MAP on days 12 and 14. Psychrotrophic counts on ascorbic acid-treated samples were decreased compared with citric acid or no dipping on pork during simulated retail display. Pork chops in MAP with gas exchange had lighter and redder color, increased weight retention, decreased psychrotrophic counts, and increased lipid oxidation compared with conventional vacuum and overwrap packaging systems. [source] Evaluation of Milk Mineral Antioxidant Activity in Beef Meatballs and Nitrite-cured SausageJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 4 2005Mihir N. Vasavada ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to determine the antioxidant activity of 1.5% milk mineral (MM) added to uncured cooked beef meatballs and to evaluate possible synergistic effects of MM in combination with 20-ppm or 40-ppm sodium nitrite in beef sausages. All treatments were also formulated with 1.5% salt and 10% added water. Thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values and Hunter color values were determined at 1 d, 8 d, and 15 d of storage at 2°C. Meatball cooked yield was also measured. Cooked yield was not different (P < 0.05) between control meatballs and those containing MM. As expected, treatments containing nitrite had higher redness (CIE a*) than samples without nitrite. Redness values increased with storage time in sausages containing 40-ppm nitrite. However, redness values decreased (P < 0.05) during storage for control meatballs, associated with increased lipid oxidation (higher TBA values). Lipid oxidation was lower (P < 0.05) in samples containing 1.5% MM with TBA values <1.2 after 15 d of storage compared with 6.1 for control samples. There was no synergistic inhibition of lipid oxidation in samples containing 20-ppm or 40-ppm sodium nitrite plus 1.5% MM. Milk mineral alone at 1.5% of meat weight was sufficient for inhibition of lipid oxidation in cooked beef samples. [source] Functional Properties of Antimicrobial Lysozyme-Chitosan Composite FilmsJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 8 2004S.-I. Park ABSTRACT: Lysozyme-chitosan composite films were developed for enhancing the antimicrobial properties of chitosan films. A 10% lysozyme solution was incorporated into 2% chitosan film-forming solution (FFS) at a ratio of 0%, 20%, 60%, and 100% (w lysozyme/w chitosan). Films were prepared by solvent evaporation. Lysozyme release from the film matrix, the antimicrobial activity of films against Escherichia coli and Streptococcus faecalis, and basic film properties were investigated. The lysozyme release proportionally increased with increasing initial concentration of lysozyme in the film matrix, and the amount of released lysozyme was in natural log relationship with time. The films with 60% lysozyme incorporation enhanced the inhibition efficacy of chitosan films against both S. faecalis and E. coli, where 3.8 log cycles reduction in S. faecalis and 2.7 log cycles reduction in E. coli were achieved. Water vapor permeability of the chitosan films was not affected by lysozyme incorporation, whereas the tensile strength and percent elongation values decreased with increased lysozyme concentration. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that lysozyme was homogeneously distributed throughout the film matrix. This study demonstrated that enhanced antimicrobial activity of lysozyme-chitosan composite films can be achieved by incorporating lysozyme into chitosan, thus broadening their applications in ensuring food quality and safety. [source] Current therapeutic approaches in childhood chronic hepatitis B infection: A multicenter studyJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 2 2004BUNYAMIN DIKICI Abstract Background and Aim:, The aim of the present study was to compare the therapeutic efficacy of three different regimens in childhood chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. Methods:, A total of 182 children with CHB infection were prospectively allocated to three random groups. Sixty-two patients in the first group received high-dose interferon (IFN)-, 2b (10 MU/m2) thrice/weekly alone for 6 months. In the second (n = 60) and third groups (n = 60), IFN-, was used for 6 months (5 MU/m2) thrice/weekly in combination with lamivudine (LAM) (4 mg/kg, maximum 100 mg/day) for 12 months. Lamivudine was started simultaneously with IFN in the second group, while it was started 2 months prior to IFN injections in the third group. Results:, The initial mean alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values for the first, second and third groups were 109 ± 93 IU/L, 101 ± 64 IU/L and 92 ± 42 IU/L, respectively (P > 0.05). At the end of the therapy, ALT values decreased to 82 ± 111 IU/L, 38 ± 41 IU/L and 29 ± 16 IU/L in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The mean ALT value of the first group was significantly different to the second and third groups (P = 0.046 and P = 0.002, respectively) at the end of the therapy and these differences were found to be sustained after 18 months. However, results in the second and third groups were similar (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in HBeAg clearance and anti-HBe seroconversion at the initial stage, 12 months and 18 months between the three groups (P > 0.05). Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA clearance in the first group was different from the second and third groups, while the second and third groups had similar HBV DNA clearance ratios at 12 and 18 months. No significant difference was found in the complete response (normalization of ALT, clearance of HBV DNA and seroconversion of anti HBe) ratios of all groups (at 12 months: 28.8, 45.5, 35.8% and at 18 months 33.3, 49 and 34% in groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively, P > 0.05). Conclusions:, Although the ALT normalization and HBV DNA clearance ratios of IFN plus LAM combination groups were better than the high-dose IFN-, monotherapy group, no significant difference was found in the complete response ratios of all three groups. [source] The effect of weekly iron supplementation on anaemia and on iron deficiency among female tea pluckers in BangladeshJOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 3 2001D. Gilgen Aim To investigate the effect of weekly iron supplementation on anaemia and iron deficiency among adult, female tea pluckers. Method A randomized double-blind intervention trial was conducted in a tea estate in Bangladesh where a total of 280 women received either weekly iron supplementation (200 mg ferrous fumarate and 200 mg folic acid) for 24 weeks or a matching placebo. Capillary blood samples were drawn at baseline and post-trial to determine haemoglobin, haematocrit and ferritin concentration. Mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was calculated using the haemoglobin and haematocrit values. Results The mean haemoglobin concentration in the supplemented group increased by 5.52 g L,1 over the study period, on average, while ferritin values decreased by 0.33 ,g L,1. The control group showed a decrease in both mean haemoglobin (,0.24 g L,1) and ferritin (,5.32 ,g L,1). Those individuals in the supplemented group with the lowest pretrial haemoglobin and ferritin values experienced the greatest improvements post-trial, whereas nonanaemic individuals showed a decrease in both haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations. A total of 62.2% of women in the supplemented group reported feeling better and more energetic compared to 51.1% in the placebo group; 14.4% of the supplemented group and 22.7% of the control group complained about side-effects. Conclusion Weekly iron supplementation was logistically simpler and cheaper than daily supplementation but would have to be continued on a longer term basis in order to combat both anaemia and iron deficiency. [source] Myeloid-related protein (MRP8/14) expression in gingival crevice fluid in periodontal health and disease and after treatmentJOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 4 2010E. Andersen Andersen E, Dessaix IM, Perneger T, Mombelli A. Myeloid-related protein (MRP8/14) expression in gingival crevice fluid in periodontal health and disease and after treatment. J Periodont Res 2010; 45: 458,463. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Background and Objective:, Myeloid-related protein (MRP8/14) and its subunits are biomarkers of inflammation. The present study evaluated whether gingival crevice fluid levels of these markers discriminate periodontitis from healthy sites in patients with chronic periodontitis or diseased from healthy subjects, and whether these biomarkers detect longitudinal changes after therapy. Material and Methods:, Levels of MRP8/14, MRP14 and total protein were quantified in 19 periodontitis patients before non-surgical periodontal therapy, after 3 and 6 mo of treatment, and were measured once in 11 periodontally healthy subjects. In total, diseased subjects contributed 59 sites with probing depths >4 mm (PP) and 21 sites <4 mm (PH); healthy subjects contributed 91 sites (HH). Results:, Overall, in diseased subjects, MRP8/14, MRP14 and total protein were not significantly different between PP and PH sites. However, at baseline, MRP8/14 and total protein had significantly higher values at sites in periodontally diseased than in healthy subjects. Clinical improvement was associated with a significant decrease of MRP8/14 and MRP14 from baseline to month 6 in PP sites. Interestingly, a similar decrease was observed in PH sites for all three markers. At 6 mo, however, levels of MRP8/14 and protein in PP and PH sites of patients were still significantly higher than in healthy subjects. Conclusion:, Gingival crevice fluid levels of MRP8/14 did not differentiate between clinically diseased and healthy sites in patients with chronic periodontitis. However, this marker was elevated in periodontally diseased compared with healthy subjects, and its values decreased following therapy. MRP8/14 may be used to monitor the response to treatment. [source] Changes of serum melatonin level and its relationship to feto-placental unit during pregnancyJOURNAL OF PINEAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2001Yasuhiko Nakamura Serum melatonin concentrations were studied in normal pregnant women and in women with several types of pathologic pregnancies, e.g., twins, preeclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Blood samples were collected from the maternal antecubital vein at 14:00 hr (daytime) and 02:00 hr (nighttime) during pregnancy, and also from the umbilical vein and artery immediately after delivery. Serum melatonin concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. Daytime serum melatonin levels in normal (single fetus; singleton) pregnancies were low. While the levels showed an increasing tendency toward the end of pregnancy, no statistically significant changes occurred. On the other hand, the nighttime serum melatonin levels increased after 24 weeks of gestation, with significantly (P<0.01) high levels after 32 weeks; these values decreased to non-pregnant levels on the 2nd day of puerperium. Nighttime serum melatonin levels were significantly (P<0.05) higher in twin pregnancies after 28 weeks of gestation than in singleton pregnancies, whereas the patients with severe preeclampsia showed significantly (P<0.05) lower serum melatonin levels than the mild preeclampsia or the normal pregnant women after 32 weeks of gestation. Melatonin concentrations in umbilical vessels showed a higher tendency in neonates who were born during at night compared with the other neonates; moreover, those in the umbilical artery were generally higher than those in the umbilical vein. The present results indicate that in humans, the maternal serum melatonin levels show a diurnal rhythm, which increases until the end of pregnancy, reflecting some pathologic states of the feto-placental unit. Fetuses may produce melatonin with a circadian rhythm. [source] EFFECT OF PROCESSING, PRESERVATION AND STORAGE ON RHEOLOGY OF GUAVA PULPJOURNAL OF TEXTURE STUDIES, Issue 4 2001S. W. HARNANAN ABSTRACT Rheological behavior of white and pink guava pulps was investigated using Rheotest 2 coaxial cylinder viscometer over shear rates of 0.6 to 145.8 s,1. The shear rate-shear stress data followed the power law, Casson, Herschel-Bulkley, Michaels and Bolger models. The power law flow behavior index values were in the range of 0.14 to 0.19. Presence of measurable yield stress indicated Bingham model of the pulps. Storage of pulps for 30 weeks had negligible influence on flow behavior index values. The consistency index and yield stress values decreased with extending storage from 0 to 30 weeks. The Michaels and Bolger model distinctly described the non-Newtonian nature of cold- and hot-break pulps as well as different behavior of the pink guava pulps. The structure shear resistance values for hot-break pulps at zero shear rate were considerably higher than those of the cold-break, indicating their high pseudoplasticity. [source] Arterial oxygen tension increase 2,3 h after hyperbaric oxygen therapy: a prospective observational studyACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2007B. Ratzenhofer-Komenda Background:, Inhalation of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) has been reported to decrease arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) in the early period after exposure. The current investigation aimed at evaluating whether and to what extent arterial blood gases were affected in mechanically ventilated intensive care patients within 6 h after HBO treatment. Methods:, Arterial blood gases were measured in 11 ventilated subjects [nine males, two females, synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) mode] undergoing HBO therapy for necrotizing soft tissue infection (seven patients), burn injury (two patients), crush injury (one patient) and major abdominal surgery (one patient). Blood gases were obtained with the patients in the supine position under continuous analgesia and sedation before the hyperbaric session (baseline), during isopression, after decompression, after each transport, and 1, 2, 3 and 6 h after exposure. Heart rates and blood pressures were recorded. Intensive care unit (ICU) ventilator settings remained unchanged. Transport and chamber ventilator settings were adjusted to baseline with maintenance of tidal volumes and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) levels. The hyperbaric protocol consisted of 222.9 kPa (2.2 absolute atmospheres) and a 50-min isopression phase. The paired Wilcoxon's test was used. Results:, Major findings (median values, 25%/75% quantiles) as per cent change of baseline: PaO2 values decreased by 19.7% (7.0/31.7, P < 0.01) after 1 h and were elevated over baseline by 9.3% (1.5/13.7, P < 0.05) after 3 h. SaO2, alveolar-arterial oxygen tension difference and PaO2/FiO2 ratio behaved concomitantly. Acid-base status and carbon dioxide tension were unaffected. Conclusion:, Arterial oxygen tension declines transiently after HBO and subsequently improves over baseline in intensive care patients on volume-controlled mechanical ventilation. The effectiveness of other ventilation modes or a standardized recruitment manoeuvre has yet to be evaluated. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||