Analysing and modelling the growth behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes on RTE cooked meat products after a high pressure treatment at 400 MPa

Various predictive models are available for high pressure inactivation of Listeria monocytogenes in food, but currently available models do not consider the growth kinetics of surviving cells during the subsequent storage of products. Therefore, we characterised the growth of L. monocytogenes in sliced cooked meat products after a pressurization treatment. Two inoculum levels (10(7) or 10(4) CFU/g) and two physiological states before pressurization (freeze-stressed or cold-adapted) were evaluated. Samples of cooked ham and mortadella were inoculated, high pressure processed (400 MPa, 5 min) and subsequently stored at 4, 8 and 12 °C. The Logistic model with delay was used to estimate lag phase (λ) and maximum specific growth rate (μmax) values from the obtained growth curves. The effect of storage temperature on μmax and λ was modelled using the Ratkowsky square root model and the relative lag time (RLT) concept. Compared with cold-adapted cells the freeze-stressed cells were more pressure-resistant and showed a much longer lag phase during growth after the pressure treatment. Interestingly, for high-pressure inactivation and subsequent growth, the time to achieve a concentration of L. monocytogenes 100-fold (2-log) higher than the cell concentration prior to the pressure treatment was similar for the two studied physiological states of the inoculum. Two secondary models were necessary to describe the different growth behaviour of L. monocytogenes on ready-to-eat cooked ham (lean product) and mortadella (fatty product). This supported the need of a product-oriented approach to assess growth after high pressure processing. The performance of the developed predictive models for the growth of L. monocytogenes in high-pressure processed cooked ham and mortadella was evaluated by comparison with available data from the literature and by using the Acceptable Simulation Zone approach. Overall, 91% of the relative errors fell into the Acceptable Simulation Zone.

Quality of raw and smoked fillets from clinically healthy Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., following an outbreak of pancreas disease (PD)

Pancreas disease (PD) is a viral disease of farmed salmonid fish, which causes huge economic losses. Pathological changes in skeletal muscle, pancreas and heart are hallmarks of PD. Stakeholders in the fish-smoking industry have claimed that fillets from PD-affected Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., are of poor quality. We therefore examined harvest-ready, clinically healthy Atlantic salmon from a population of fish previously affected by PD. Histopathological changes in skeletal muscle tissues ranged from minor to severe. Fillet quality measurements showed that fish with severe skeletal muscle changes provided a paler raw fillet and a yellowish and harder cold-smoked fillet than normal. PD had no significant effect on fillet gaping, bacteriological quality or off-odour development during storage. An unexpected finding was a significant subendocardial fibrosis in 23% of the PD-affected fish. The latter may indicate susceptibility to stress-related heart failure.

Lens autofluorescence in diabetes compared with the level of glycosylated hemoglobin A1c

The autofluorescence of the crystalline lens has been measured by an ocular fluorophotometer in two comparable groups of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. One group has had a high level of HbA1c since the onset of diabetes (mean 10.1 per cent) and the other group a very low level (mean 6.5 per cent). The group with low HbA1c during the disease period showed a significantly lower lens fluorescence than the group with high HbA1c.

Fluorophotometric evaluation of ocular barriers and of the vitreous body in the aphakic eye

8 aphakic patients were studied with fluorophotometry and 3-mirror examination of the vitreous body one month after cataract extraction. 4 were extracapsular with posterior chamber pseudophakos (ECCE) and 4 were intracapsular with anterior chamber pseudophakos (ICCE). A mathematical model is used to calculate blood-ocular fluorescein permeability (P) and vitreous diffusion coefficient (D) from fluorophotometric scans. All 30-minutes scans in the ECCE group and 2 in the ICCE showed a profile resembling that in phakic eyes, and P- and D-values were calculated. In the remaining two patients from the ICCE group scans showed rapid filling of the vitreous cavity with fluoroscein and calculations could not be made. Clinical examination showed vitreous detachment in these two eyes whereas the others had a normal vitreous structure evaluated by 3-mirror examination. It is shown that fluorophotometric readings can be made in both intra- and extracapsularly operated eyes. Rapid mixing of the dye in the vitreous cavity is seen in relation to vitreous detachment.

Validity of clinical symptoms in benign esophageal disease, assessed by questionnaire

A questionnaire designed to test the value of questions identifying benign esophageal disease was sent to patients representing four well-defined entities: angina pectoris (n = 30), benign esophageal disease (n = 25), gastroduodenal ulcer or former gallstones (n = 27) and normal subjects (n = 38). By means of logistic regression, three key-questions were selected. A combination of an affirmative answer to "difficulty in swallowing solid food" and to "pain in the chest" or "heartburn at night" or both did not occur in the group of normal subjects, while occurring in 68% of the patients with esophageal diseases. The combination occurred in only 10% of the patients with angina pectoris and 15% of those suffering from gastroduodenal ulcer or gallstones. The predictive accuracy of the combination of the three questions is estimated for various hypothetic prevalences of esophageal disease. These questions appear to identify approximately two-thirds of individuals with esophageal disease with acceptable false-positive rates and can therefore be used in epidemiological studies.

Information systems in food safety management

Information systems are concerned with data capture, storage, analysis and retrieval. In the context of food safety management they are vital to assist decision making in a short time frame, potentially allowing decisions to be made and practices to be actioned in real time. Databases with information on microorganisms pertinent to the identification of foodborne pathogens, response of microbial populations to the environment and characteristics of foods and processing conditions are the cornerstone of food safety management systems. Such databases find application in: Identifying pathogens in food at the genus or species level using applied systematics in automated ways. Identifying pathogens below the species level by molecular subtyping, an approach successfully applied in epidemiological investigations of foodborne disease and the basis for national surveillance programs. Predictive modelling software, such as the Pathogen Modeling Program and Growth Predictor (that took over the main functions of Food Micromodel) the raw data of which were combined as the genesis of an international web based searchable database (ComBase). Expert systems combining databases on microbial characteristics, food composition and processing information with the resulting "pattern match" indicating problems that may arise from changes in product formulation or processing conditions. Computer software packages to aid the practical application of HACCP and risk assessment and decision trees to bring logical sequences to establishing and modifying food safety management practices. In addition there are many other uses of information systems that benefit food safety more globally, including: Rapid dissemination of information on foodborne disease outbreaks via websites or list servers carrying commentary from many sources, including the press and interest groups, on the reasons for and consequences of foodborne disease incidents. Active surveillance networks allowing rapid dissemination of molecular subtyping information between public health agencies to detect foodborne outbreaks and limit the spread of human disease. Traceability of individual animals or crops from (or before) conception or germination to the consumer as an integral part of food supply chain management. Provision of high quality, online educational packages to food industry personnel otherwise precluded from access to such courses.

Biogenic amine formation and microbial spoilage in chilled garfish (Belone belone belone) - effect of modified atmosphere packaging and previous frozen storage

AIMS

To evaluate biogenic amine formation and microbial spoilage in fresh and thawed chilled garfish.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Storage trials were carried out with fresh and thawed garfish fillets at 0 or 5 degrees C in air or in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP: 40% CO2 and 60% N2). During storage, sensory, chemical and microbial changes were recorded and histamine formation by isolates from the spoilage microflora was evaluated at 5 degrees C. Photobacterium phosphoreum was responsible for histamine formation (>1000 ppm) in chilled fresh garfish. The use of MAP did not reduce the histamine formation. Strongly histamine-producing P. phosphoreum isolates formed 2080-4490 ppm at 5 degrees C, whereas below 60 ppm was formed by other P. phosphoreum isolates. Frozen storage inactivated P. phosphoreum and consequently reduced histamine formation in thawed garfish at 5 degrees C markedly.

CONCLUSIONS

Photobacterium phosphoreum can produce above 1000 ppm of histamine in chilled fresh garfish stored both in air and in MAP. Freezing inactivates P. phosphoreum, extends shelf life and markedly reduces histamine formation in thawed MAP garfish during chilled storage.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

At 5 degrees C, more than 1000 ppm of histamine was formed in garfish; thus even when it is chilled this product represents a histamine fish-poisoning risk.

Dosage dependent hormonal counter regulation to combination therapy in patients with left ventricular dysfunction

The present study attempts to assess the efficacy combination therapy for heart failure. Genuine dose-response studies on combination therapy are not available and published studies involved adding one drug on top of 'usual treatment'. Sixteen different dosage combinations of trandolapril and bumetanide was tested in a double blind, double placebo-controlled, randomized, multiple cross-over study in a 16 times six balanced incomplete Latin square design. Patients reported optimal quality of life on the sub maximal dose bumetanide. Bumetanide decreased left ventricular function and increased heart rate and plasma noradrenaline in a dose dependent manner. Doses of bumetanide of more than 0.5 mg, given twice daily significantly decreased the quality of life and increased diuresis. Weight loss was maximal on 0.5 mg bumetanide twice daily. Trandolapril significantly reduced systolic blood pressure with the maximal effect at 0.5 mg daily. Both drugs significantly increased renin concentration with a significant potentiating interaction. It was not possible to detect beneficial effects of combination therapies. The optimal dosage of Bumetanide appeared to be 0.5 mg twice daily based on its effect on quality of life and weight loss. Estimated by the reduction in systolic blood pressure the optimal dosage of Trandolapril appeared to be 0.5 mg once daily.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that patients should be given less than the usually recommended dosages. Patients may be treated with a low dose loop diuretic, if signs of water retention are present or if symptomatic relief is desired.

Nonbioluminescent strains of Photobacterium phosphoreum produce the cell-to-cell communication signal N-(3-Hydroxyoctanoyl)homoserine lactone

Bioluminescence is a common phenotype in marine bacteria, such as Vibrio and Photobacterium species, and can be quorum regulated by N-acylated homoserine lactones (AHLs). We extracted a molecule that induced a bacterial AHL monitor (Agrobacterium tumefaciens NT1 [pZLR4]) from packed cod fillets, which spoil due to growth of Photobacterium phosphoreum. Interestingly, AHLs were produced by 13 nonbioluminescent strains of P. phosphoreum isolated from the product. Of 177 strains of P. phosphoreum (including 18 isolates from this study), none of 74 bioluminescent strains elicited a reaction in the AHL monitor, whereas 48 of 103 nonbioluminescent strains did produce AHLs. AHLs were also detected in Aeromonas spp., but not in Shewanella strains. Thin-layer chromatographic profiles of cod extracts and P. phosphoreum culture supernatants identified a molecule similar in relative mobility (Rf value) and shape to N-(3-hydroxyoctanoyl)homoserine lactone, and the presence of this molecule in culture supernatants from a nonbioluminescent strain of P. phosphoreum was confirmed by high-performance liquid chromatography-positive electrospray high-resolution mass spectrometry. Bioluminescence (in a non-AHL-producing strain of P. phosphoreum) was strongly up-regulated during growth, whereas AHL production in a nonbioluminescent strain of P. phosphoreum appeared constitutive. AHLs apparently did not influence bioluminescence, as the addition of neither synthetic AHLs nor supernatants delayed or reduced this phenotype in luminescent strains of P. phosphoreum. The phenotypes of nonbioluminescent P. phosphoreum strains regulated by AHLs remains to be elucidated.

Shelf life and safety aspects of chilled cooked and peeled shrimps (Pandalus borealis) in modified atmosphere packaging

AIMS

To evaluate the growth of Listeria monocytogenes and shelf life of cooked and peeled shrimps in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Storage trials with naturally contaminated cooked and peeled MAP shrimps (Pandalus borealis) were carried out at 2, 5 and 8 degrees C. Challenge tests at the same conditions were performed after inoculation with Listeria monocytogenes. Both storage trials and challenge tests were repeated after 4 months of frozen storage (-22 degrees C). Brochothrix thermosphacta and Carnobacterium maltaromaticum were responsible for sensory spoilage of cooked and peeled MAP shrimps. In challenge tests, growth of L. monocytogenes was observed at all of the storage temperatures studied. At 5 and 8 degrees C the concentration of L. monocytogenes increased more than a 1000-fold before the product became sensory spoiled whereas this was not observed at 2 degrees C. Frozen storage had only a minor inhibiting effect on growth of L. monocytogenes in the thawed product.

CONCLUSIONS

To prevent L. monocytogenes becoming a safety problem, cooked and peeled MAP shrimps should be distributed at 2 degrees C and with a maximum shelf life of 20-21 d. At higher temperatures shelf life is significantly reduced.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Information is provided to establish shelf life of cooked and peeled MAP shrimps.

Lens fluorescence and metabolic control in type 1 diabetic patients: a 14 year follow up study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

In this prospective study the authors followed the post-translational modification of the proteins of the lens of the eye by fluorometry over a period of 14 years in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Twenty patients were examined at 6 years (baseline) and 20 years (follow up) after onset of diabetes mellitus. Glycaemic levels were assessed from HbA1c measured at regular intervals from the onset of diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

Lens fluorescence at follow up was significantly related to mean HbA1c during the study period and to lens fluorescence at baseline (p<0.0001). Sixty per cent of the variation in rate of increase in lens fluorescence during the study period was statistically attributable to glycaemia levels.

CONCLUSION

The results confirm that the rate of fluorophore accumulation in the lens of adult diabetic patients is increased in proportion to glycaemic control. This parameter alone is, however, not sufficient to explain the entire variation in lens fluorophore accumulation. Consequently, lens fluorescence must be influenced by other factors before initiation and during the study period, and possibly even before onset of diabetes mellitus. The underlying mechanism could be a variation in susceptibility to lens protein denaturation by glycation.

Effects of high-pressure processing on Listeria monocytogenes, spoilage microflora and multiple compound quality indices in chilled cold-smoked salmon

AIMS

To evaluate the effect of high-pressure processing (HPP) on Listeria monocytogenes, microbial and chemical changes and shelf-life in chilled cold-smoked salmon (CSS).

METHODS AND RESULTS

First, challenge tests with L. monocytogenes were carried out using HPP of the product at 0.1 (control), 150, 200 and 250 MPa. Secondly, storage trials with the naturally contaminated product and HPP at 0.1 (control) and 200 MPa were realized. Shelf-life, microbial changes and chemical changes were determined and existing predictive models and multiple compound quality indices evaluated. HPP with 250 MPa did not inactivate L. monocytogenes but significant lag phases of 17 and 10 days were observed at ca 5 and 10 degrees C, respectively. HPP with 200 MPa had a marked effect on both colour and texture of CSS.

CONCLUSIONS

High-pressure processing was unable to prevent growth of L. monocytogenes or spoilage of chilled CSS. Existing mathematical models allowed growth rates of L. monocytogenes and shelf-life of samples without high-pressure treatments to be predicted.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

High-pressure processing seems more appropriate for new types of salmon products than for a classical product like CSS where consumers expect specific quality attributes.

Modelling and predicting the simultaneous growth of Listeria monocytogenes and spoilage micro-organisms in cold-smoked salmon

AIMS

To evaluate and model the simultaneous growth of Listeria monocytogenes and spoilage micro-organisms in cold-smoked salmon.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Growth kinetics of L. monocytogenes, lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Enterobacteriaceae, enterococci and Photobacterium phosphoreum were determined in two series of challenge tests with sliced and vacuum-packed cold-smoked salmon (SVP-CSS). The product contained a high level of smoke components and at 2 degrees C levels of L. monocytogenes increased <100-fold in 193 days. Without the addition of spoilage micro-organisms, L. monocytogenes reached ca 108 CFU g-1 at 5, 10, 17.5 and 25 degrees C. Inoculation with spoilage micro-organisms reduced this level to 102-104 CFU g-1. LAB dominated the spoilage microfora of SVP-CSS and competition between LAB and L. monocytogenes in SVP-CSS was appropriately described by a simple expansion of the Logistic model. This interaction model aided in predicting the growth of L. monocytogenes in naturally contaminated SVP-CSS when it was used in combination with expanded versions of existing secondary models for L. monocytogenes and LAB.

CONCLUSIONS

Temperature, water activity/NaCl, simultaneous growth of LAB, smoke components and to a lesser extent lactate and pH control growth of L. monocytogenes in SVP-CSS. These factors must be included in mathematical models to predict growth of the pathogen in this product.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The suggested predictive model can be used to support assessment and management of the human health risk due to L. monocytogenes in SVP-CSS.

Identification of lactic acid bacteria from spoilage associations of cooked and brined shrimps stored under modified atmosphere between 0 degrees C and 25 degrees C

AIMS

To evaluate spoilage and identify lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from spoilage associations of cooked and brined shrimps stored under modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) at 0, 5, 8, 15 and 25 degrees C.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Bacterial isolates (102) from spoilage associations of cooked and brined MAP shrimps were characterized by phenotypic tests and identified as lactic acid bacteria (78 isolates), other Gram-positive bacteria (13 isolates) and Gram-negative bacteria (11 isolates). A selection of 48 LAB isolates were further characterized and identified by phenotypic tests and SDS-PAGE electrophoresis of whole cell proteins. Selected clusters of LAB isolates were analysed by plasmid profiling, pulsed field gel electrophoresis and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Enterococcus faecalis was identified in spoilage associations at 15 degrees C and 25 degrees C, and its metabolic activity corresponded to chemical changes in spoiled products. Carnobacterium divergens, a non-motile Carnobacterium sp. nov. and Lactobacillus curvatus were the LAB species observed in spoilage associations of products stored at 0 degrees C, 5 degrees C and 8 degrees C.

CONCLUSIONS

Enterococcus spp. and Carnobacterium spp. were the dominant parts of spoilage associations of cooked and brined MAP shrimps stored at high and low temperatures, respectively.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The SDS-PAGE technique and simple biochemical keys allowed the majority of LAB isolates from spoilage associations of cooked and brined MAP shrimps to be identified at the species level.

Microbial spoilage and formation of biogenic amines in fresh and thawed modified atmosphere-packed salmon (Salmo salar) at 2 degrees C

AIMS

To evaluate the microbial spoilage, formation of biogenic amines and shelf life of chilled fresh and frozen/thawed salmon packed in a modified atmosphere and stored at 2 degrees C.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The dominating microflora, formation of biogenic amines and shelf life were studied in two series of storage trials with naturally contaminated fresh and thawed modified atmosphere-packed (MAP) salmon at 2 degrees C. Photobacterium phosphoreum dominated the spoilage microflora of fresh MAP salmon at more than 10(6) cfu g(-1) and the activity of this specific spoilage organism (SSO) limited the shelf life of the product to ca 14 and 21 d in the two experiments. Despite the high levels of P. phosphoreum, less than 20 mg kg(-1) histamine was observed in fresh MAP salmon prior to sensory spoilage. Freezing eliminated P. phosphoreum and extended the shelf life of MAP salmon at 2 degrees C by 1-2 weeks. Carnobacterium piscicola dominated the spoilage microflora of thawed MAP salmon and probably produced the ca 40 mg kg(-1) tyramine detected in this product at the end of its shelf life.

CONCLUSIONS

Photobacterium phosphoreum dominated the spoilage microflora of fresh MAP salmon but produced only small amounts of biogenic amines in this product. The elimination of P. phosphoreum by freezing allowed this bacteria to be identified as the SSO in fresh MAP salmon.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The identification of P. phosphoreum as the SSO in fresh MAP salmon facilitates the development of methods to determine and predict the shelf life of this product, as previously shown with fresh MAP cod.

Antimicrobial effect of essential oils on the seafood spoilage micro-organism Photobacterium phosphoreum in liquid media and fish products

AIMS

To evaluate the antimicrobial effect of nine essential oils (EO) on P. phosphoreum and determine the effect of oregano oil on the shelf-life of modified atmosphere-packed (MAP) cod fillets.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The antimicrobial effect of EO was studied in a liquid medium and in product storage trials. Oils of oregano and cinnamon had strongest antimicrobial activity, followed by lemongrass, thyme, clove, bay, marjoram, sage and basil oils. Oregano oil (0.05%, v/w) reduced growth of P. phosphoreum in naturally contaminated MAP cod fillets and extended shelf-life from 11-12 d to 21-26 d at 2 degrees C.

CONCLUSIONS

Oregano oil reduced the growth of P. phosphoreum and extended the shelf-life of MAP cod fillets.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Mild and natural preservation using EO can extend the shelf-life of MAP seafood through inhibiting the specific spoilage organism P. phosphoreum.

In vivo evidence of altered skeletal muscle blood flow in chronic tension-type headache

Painful impulses from tender pericranial muscles may play a major role in the pathophysiology of chronic tension-type headache. Firm evidence for peripheral muscle pathology as a cause of muscle pain and chronic headache is still lacking. Using a microdialysis technique, we aimed to estimate in vivo blood flow and interstitial lactate concentrations in the trapezius muscle at rest and during static exercise in patients with chronic tension-type headache and in healthy subjects. We recruited 16 patients with chronic tension-type headache and 17 healthy control subjects. Two microdialysis catheters were inserted into the trapezius muscle (on the non-dominant side) of subjects, and dialysates were collected at rest, 15 and 30 min after the start of static exercise (10% of maximal force) and 15 and 30 min after the exercise was completed. All samples were coded and analysed blind. The primary endpoints were to detect a difference between patients and controls in changes of muscle blood flow and the interstitial lactate concentration from baseline to exercise and post-exercise periods. The increase in muscle blood flow from baseline to exercise and post-exercise periods was significantly lower in patients than controls (P = 0.03). There was no difference in resting blood flow between patients and controls (P = 0.43). Resting interstitial concentration of lactate did not differ between patients (2.51 +/- 0.18 mM; mean +/- standard error of the mean) and controls (2.35 +/- 0.23 mM, P = 0.57). There was no difference in change in interstitial lactate from baseline to exercise and post-exercise periods between patients and controls (P = 0.38). The present study provides in vivo evidence of decreased blood flow in response to static exercise in a tender muscle in patients with chronic tension-type headache. We suggest that, because of increased excitability of neurones in the CNS, the central interpretation and response to normal sensory input are altered in patients with chronic tension-type headache. This may lead to enhanced sympathetically mediated vasoconstriction and thereby a decreased blood flow in response to static exercise.

Significance of volatile compounds produced by spoilage bacteria in vacuum-packed cold-smoked salmon (Salmo salar) analyzed by GC-MS and multivariate regression

Changes were studied in the concentration of 38 volatile compounds during chilled storage at 5 degrees C of six lots of commercially produced vacuum-packed cold-smoked salmon and sterile cold-smoked salmon. The majority of volatile compounds produced during spoilage of cold-smoked salmon were alcohols, which were produced by microbial activity. Partial least-squares regression of volatile compounds and sensory results allowed for a multiple compound quality index to be developed. This index was based on volatile bacterial metabolites, 1-propanol and 2-butanone, and 2-furancarboxaldehyde produced by autolytic activity. Only a few of the volatile compounds produced during spoilage of cold-smoked salmon had an aroma value high enough to indicate contribution to the spoilage off-flavor of cold-smoked salmon. These were trimethylamine, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 1-penten-3-ol, and 1-propanol. The potency and importance of these compounds was confirmed by gas chromatography-olfactometry. The present study provides valuable information on the bacterial reactions responsible for spoilage off-flavors of cold-smoked salmon, which can be used to develop biosensors for on-pack shelf-life determinations.

Allelic loss of chromosome 2p21-16.3 is associated with reduced survival in sporadic colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Since allelic loss of genes involved in the development of colorectal cancer could serve as prognostic markers, we examined the correlation between loss of markers linked to the hMSH2/hMSH6 (2p21-16.3), hMLH1 (3p21.3), APC (5q21-22), p53 (17p13.1) and DCC (18q21.3) loci and survival in a series of 64 consecutively collected colorectal cancers.

METHODS

The association between allelic loss and survival was analysed by univariate and multivariate tests to identify independent variables of survival.

RESULTS

Loss of chromosome 2p21-16.3 reduced the overall 5-year survival from 52% to 15% (P = 0.0003). The prognostic significance was evident in patients with Dukes' A + B as well as Dukes' C tumours. A multivariate analysis comparing Dukes' staging, age at diagnosis, tumour localization, sex, loss of chromosome 2p21-16.3, 3p21.3, 5q21-22, 17p13.1 or 18q21.3 and microsatellite instability showed that only Dukes' staging (hazard ratio 3.0; 1.4-6.5 with 95% confidence interval, P = 0.0065) and loss of 2p21-16.3 (hazard ratio 6.2; 2.3-16.8 with 95% confidence interval, P = 0.0006) were independent variables of survival. Loss of 2p21-16.3 was, moreover, associated with increased loss of the other tumour suppressor loci (P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that loss of 2p21-16.3 is an independent indicator of survival in patients with colorectal cancer.

Comparison of maximum specific growth rates and lag times estimated from absorbance and viable count data by different mathematical models

Maximum specific growth rate (mu(max)) and lag time (lambda) were estimated from viable count and absorbance data and compared for different microorganisms, incubation systems and growth conditions. Data from 176 growth curves and 120 absorbance detection times of serially diluted cultures were evaluated using different mathematical growth models. Accurate estimates of mu(max) and lambda were obtained from individual absorbance growth curves by using the Richard model, with values of the parameter m fixed to 0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 to describing different degrees of growth dampening, as well as from absorbance detection times of serially diluted cultures. It is suggested to apply the two techniques complementarily for accurate, rapid and inexpensive estimation of microbial growth parameter values from absorbance data. In contrast, considerable limitations were demonstrated for the ability of the Exponential, the Gompertz and the Logistic models to estimate mu(max) and lambda values accurately from absorbance data. Limitations of these models were revealed due the wide range of growth conditions studies.

Predictive modelling of the growth and survival of Listeria in fishery products

Predictive microbiology provides a powerful tool to aid the exposure assessment phase of 'quantitative microbial risk assessment'. Using predictive models changes in microbial populations on foods between the point of production/harvest and the point of eating can be estimated from changes in product parameters (temperature, storage atmosphere, pH, salt/water activity, etc.). Thus, it is possible to infer exposure to Listeria monocytogenes at the time of consumption from the initial microbiological condition of the food and its history from production to consumption. Predictive microbiology models have immediate practical application to improve microbial food safety and quality, and are leading to development of a quantitative understanding of the microbial ecology of foods. While models are very useful decision-support tools it must be remembered that models are, at best, only a simplified representation of reality. As such, application of model predictions should be tempered by previous experience, and used with cognisance of other microbial ecology principles that may not be included in the model. Nonetheless, it is concluded that predictive models, successfully validated in agreement with defined performance criteria, will be an essential element of exposure assessment within formal quantitative risk assessment. Sources of data and models relevant to assessment of the human health risk of L. monocytogenes in seafoods are identified. Limitations of the current generation of predictive microbiology models are also discussed. These limitations, and their consequences, must be recognised and overtly considered so that the risk assessment process remains transparent. Furthermore, there is a need to characterise and incorporate into models the extent of variability in microbial responses. The integration of models for microbial growth, growth limits or inactivation into models that can predict both increases and decreases in microbial populations over time will also improve the utility of predictive models for exposure assessment. All of these issues are the subject of ongoing research.

The effect of biogenic amine production by single bacterial cultures and metabiosis on cold-smoked salmon

AIM

Biogenic amines are important indicators of spoilage in vacuum-packed cold-smoked salmon. It is the aim of this study to identify bacteria responsible for biogenic amine production in cold-smoked salmon.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The present study identified spoilage microflora from cold-smoked salmon and determined biogenic amine production of single and co-cultures growing in cold-smoked salmon. Photobacterium phosphoreum was the only species that produced histamine when inoculated on sterile cold-smoked salmon. Production of putrescine was enhanced 10-15 times when cultures of Serratia liquefaciens or Hafnia alvei were grown with Carnobacterium divergens or Lactobacillus sakei subsp. carnosus. This phenomenon was explained by interspecies microbial metabolism of arginine, i.e., metabiosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The amounts of biogenic amines produced by single and co-cultures corresponded to those observed during spoilage of naturally-contaminated cold-smoked salmon. Photobacterium phosphoreum and Lact. curvatus were identified as the specific spoilage organisms in cold-smoked salmon.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Determination of the specific spoilage organism is needed before a model can be developed for shelf-life predictions of cold-smoked salmon.

Multiple compound quality index for cold-smoked salmon (Salmo salar) developed by multivariate regression of biogenic amines and pH

Production of biogenic amines during chill storage of 12 lots of cold-smoked salmon was studied. These data allowed for a multiple compound quality index to be developed by multivariate regression (partial least square regression). The quality index was based on concentrations of cadaverine, histamine, putrescine, and tyramine and pH and showed good correlation with sensory assessments. Biogenic amines were indicators of spoilage rather than casual agents of spoilage off-flavors. Four different biogenic amine profiles were found at the time of spoilage in cold-smoked salmon. These were the results of differences in the spoilage microflora. Histamine was detected above regulatory limits but below toxic levels. Measurements of salt and dry matter for calculation of water phase salt could be substituted by rapid water activity measurements.

Gas-phase fragmentation of coordination compounds: loss of CO(2) from inorganic carbonato complexes to give metal oxide ions

Using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, novel transition metal oxide coordination complex ions are proposed as the products of the collision-induced dissociation (CID) of some carbonato complex ions through the loss of a mass equivalent to CO(2). CID spectra of [(tpa)CoCO(3)](+) (tpa = tris(2-pyridylmethyl)methylamine), [(bispicMe(2)en)Fe(&mgr;-O)(&mgr;-CO(3))Fe(bispicMe(2)en)]2+ (bispicMe(2)en = N,N'-dimethyl-N,N'-bis(2-pyridylmethy)eth- ane-1, 2-diamine) and [(bpbp)Cu(2)CO(3)](+) (bpbp(-) = bis[(bis-(2-pyridylmethyl)amino)methyl]-4-tertbutylpheno-lato(1-)), show peaks assigned to the mono- and dinuclear oxide cations, [(tpa)CoO](+), [(bispicMe(2)en)(2)Fe(2)(O)(2)]2+ and [(bpbp)Cu(2)O](+), as the dominant species. These results can be likened to the reverse of typical synthetic reactions in which metal hydroxide compounds react with CO(2) to give metal carbonato compounds. Because of the lack of available protons in the gas phase, novel oxide species rather than the more common hydroxide ions are generated. These oxide ions are relevant to the highly oxidizing species proposed in oxygenation reactions catalysed by metal oxides and metalloenzymes. Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The effect of increasing blood pressure with dopamine on systemic, splanchnic, and lower extremity hemodynamics in patients with acute liver failure

BACKGROUND

Arterial hypotension occurs frequently in patients with acute liver failure (ALF). Treatment with epinephrine and norepinephrine in patients with ALF has been associated with a decrease in whole-body (systemic) oxygen consumption. We aimed to investigate the effect of increasing blood pressure with dopamine on whole-body (systemic), splanchnic, and lower extremity hemodynamics and oxygen consumption in patients with acute liver failure and hepatic encephalopathy grade III or IV.

METHODS

In seven patients with ALF cardiac output (CO) was measured with the thermodilution technique, and hepatic blood flow (HBF) was estimated with infusion of sorbitol as test compound, liver vein catheterization, and calculations on the basis of Fick's principle. Lower-extremity blood flow was measured with strain-gauge plethysmography.

RESULTS

During infusion of dopamine (5 +/- 2 microg kg(-1) min(-1)) mean arterial pressure (MAP) increased from 68 +/- 5 to 85 +/- 8 mmHg. CO increased from 6.8 +/- 0.8 to 9.0 +/- 2.4 l/min (P < 0.05), systemic oxygen delivery from 45 +/- 7 to 63 +/- 19 mmol/min (P < 0.05), systemic oxygen consumption from 10.2 +/- 2.0 to 11.5 +/- 3.3 mmol/min (NS). HBF increased from 2.2 +/- 0.7 to 2.7 +/- 1.0 l/ min (P < 0.05), splanchnic oxygen delivery from 14.4 +/- 5.3 to 18.5 +/- 7.2 mmol/min (P < 0.01), and splanchnic oxygen consumption decreased from 3.9 +/- 1.1 to 2.9 +/- 0.6 mmol/min (P < 0.05). No significant changes in lower extremity flow and oxygenation variables were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of dopamine in patients with ALF to increase MAP was associated with increases in systemic and splanchnic oxygen delivery. A concomitant decrease in splanchnic oxygen consumption was observed.

Thawed Cod Fillets Spoil Less Rapidly Than Unfrozen Fillets When Stored under Modified Atmosphere at 2°C

The effect of two months of frozen storage at -20°C on the spoilage characteristics and shelf life of thawed and modified atmosphere packed (MAP) cod fillets stored at 2°C was studied. Thawed MAP cod fillets were compared with fresh cod fillets stored in CO₂-containing modified atmospheres with and without added oxygen. The shelf life of 11 to 12 days in the fresh MAP cod was extended to more than 20 days in the thawed MAP cod at 2°C. This shelf life extension was most likely due to the inactivation of the spoilage bacterium Photobacterium phosphoreum during frozen storage as reflected both in Chemical analyses and sensory evaluation. In contrast to fresh MAP cod fillets no significant production of trimethylamine occurred and almost no amine odor and taste were detected during 20 days of chill storage of thawed MAP cod fillets. The use of frozen fillets as raw material not only provides a more stable product in MAP but also allows much greater flexibility for production and distribution. However, a slightly increased concentration of dimethylamine, a larger drip loss, and detection of weak frozen storage flavor were observed in the thawed MAP cod fillets.

Specific inhibition of Photobacterium phosphoreum extends the shelf life of modified-atmosphere-packed cod fillets

Inhibition of the specific spoilage organism, Photobacterium phosphoreum, was studied in model substrates and in modified-atmosphere-packed cod fillets. The objective was to determine how inhibition of this organism influenced spoilage. The spoilage reactions limiting shelf life were studied rather than the development of a new product. In naturally contaminated modified-atmosphere-packed cod fillets, 500 ppm Na2CaEDTA reduced the growth rate of P. phosphoreum by 40% and shelf life was increased proportionally by 40%, from 15 to 17 days to 21 to 23 days at 0 degree C. In aerobically stored cod fillets other microorganisms were responsible for spoilage and Na2CaEDTA had no effect on shelf life. The extension of the shelf life of modified-atmosphere-packed cod therefore was a result of the reduced growth of P. phosphoreum and no other microbial or nonmicrobial spoilage reactions limited shelf life. These results confirmed P. phosphoreum as the specific spoilage organism in modified-atmosphere-packed cod and showed the organism to have an extensive spoilage domain. Consequently, any preservation procedure able to reduce growth of P. phosphoreum is likely to extend shelf life of packed cod. However, the effect of different inhibitory compounds in model systems as well as results from packed cod indicated the need to include product studies in the screening of antimicrobials and in the development of preservation procedures.

Predicted and observed growth of Listeria monocytogenes in seafood challenge tests and in naturally contaminated cold-smoked salmon

The performance of the Pathogen Modelling Program, the Food MicroModel, the Murphy-model and the Ross-model for growth of L. monocytogenes was evaluated by comparison with data from 100 seafood challenge tests and data from 13 storage trials with naturally contaminated sliced vacuum-packed cold-smoked salmon. Challenge tests with both cured and noncured products were studied, and graphs as well as the bias- and the accuracy factors were used for comparison of the observed and predicted growth. The Pathogen Modelling Program could not be successfully validated in seafood challenge tests. Growth rates were markedly overestimated and the mu(max)-bias factor was as high as 3.9 in challenge tests with cured products. On the basis of the effect of temperature, NaCl/a(w) and pH, the mu(max)-bias factor of the other three models studied, varied between 1.0 and 2.3 in the challenge tests with cured and noncured seafoods. None of the models accurately predicted the growth in both cured and noncured seafoods. However, the results indicated that a new expanded model, including the additional effect of lactate and phenol, may provide accurate predictions of the growth of L. monocytogenes in challenge tests with various types of seafoods. Storage trials clearly showed the growth of L. monocytogenes in naturally contaminated cold-smoked salmon to be markedly slower than growth in inoculated challenge tests. Consequently, all four models substantially overestimated growth in the naturally contaminated products. Temperature, pH, NaCl/a(w) and lactate were measured in the storage trials and on the basis of these parameters, the Food MicroModel mu(max)-bias factor was 5.2. Clearly, the model could not be successfully validated with naturally contaminated cold-smoked salmon. To improve the applicability of predictive models to fish products, it is suggested to include studies with naturally contaminated products in the development and validation of models with seafood pathogens.

Evaluation of the role of Carnobacterium piscicola in spoilage of vacuum- and modified-atmosphere-packed cold-smoked salmon stored at 5 degrees C

The microflora on spoiled cold-smoked salmon often consists of a mixture of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and Gram-negative bacteria. To elucidate the role of the different groups, a storage trial was carried out in which nisin and CO2 were used for the selective inhibition of the two bacterial groups. The shelf-life of vacuum-packed cold-smoked salmon, recorded by sensory evaluation, was four weeks at 5 degrees C and the microflora was composed of LAB (10(6)-10(7) cfu/g) with an associate Gram-negative flora in varying levels (10(5)-10(7) cfu/g). The addition of nisin and/or a CO2-atmosphere increased the shelf-life to five or six weeks and limited the level of LAB to about 10(4)-10(6), 10(3)-10(6) and 10(2)-10(4) cfu/g, respectively. CO2-atmosphere +/- nisin inhibited the growth of Gram-negative bacteria, whereas nisin had no effect on these in vacuum packages. The Gram-negative flora on vacuum-packed salmon was dominated by a Vibrio sp., resembling V. marinus, Enterobacteriaceae (Enterobacter agglomerans, Serratia liquefaciens and Rahnella aquatilis) and occasionally Aeromonas hydrophila. Irrespective of the addition of nisin and/or CO2-atmosphere, the LAB microflora was dominated by Carnobacterium piscicola, which was found to account for 87% of the 255 LAB isolates characterized. Whole-cell-protein patterns analysed by SDS-PAGE confirmed the Carnobacterium species identification. The spoilage potential of C. piscicola isolates was further studied by inoculation of approx. 10(6) cfu/g in cold-smoked salmon stored at 5 degrees C. The salmon did not spoil within 4 weeks of storage in vacuum- or CO2-atmosphere, and it is concluded that despite high levels (> 10(7) cfu/g) of C. piscicola, sensory rejection was caused by autolytic changes. This was supported by the development of soft texture and sour, rancid and bitter off-flavours at the point of spoilage, irrespective of the length of shelf-life and low or high total counts of LAB and Gram-negative bacteria.

Application of an iterative approach for development of a microbial model predicting the shelf-life of packed fish

An iterative approach was used to develop a microbial model for shelf-life prediction of cod fillets packed in modified atmospheres. The effect of temperature (0-15 degrees C) and CO2 (0-100%) on growth of the specific spoilage organism, Photobacterium phosphoreum, was studied in packed cod and in liquid media. P. phosphoreum was a dominant part of the spoilage microflora of packed cod stored at the extremes of the range of conditions studied. The organism is therefore likely to be important for spoilage and the development of a microbial model within this domain seems relevant. A liquid medium was developed to provide growth kinetics of P. phosphoreum similar to those observed in packed cod. Using this medium, the effect of temperature and CO2 on the maximum specific growth rate of Photobacterium phosphoreum was determined by absorbance measurements and modelled by a square root equation and by a polynomial equation. Product validation studies were carried out during summer and winter using naturally contaminated packed cod fillets which were stored at constant and at changing temperatures. The shelf-life of the packed fillets was predicted on the basis of the initial numbers of P. phosphoreum, product temperature profiles and the level of CO2 in the modified atmosphere. The average deviations between shelf-life determined by sensory evaluation and shelf-life predicted by the square root equation and by the polynomial equation were 17% and 9%, respectively.

Classification of photobacteria associated with spoilage of fish products by numerical taxonomy and pyrolysis mass spectrometry

Forty strains of luminous and non-luminous Photobacterium phosphoreum isolates from cod (Gadus morhua) and seven reference strains of psychrotolerant and mesophilic photobacteria were examined for 156 unit characters in a numerical taxonomic study. The fish strains were isolated from the intestines, from spoiled products and by using a specific detection method. The data were analysed using the similarity coefficient and the unweighted pair-group with arithmetic averages algorithm. In addition twenty-six of the fish isolates and five reference strains were analysed by Curie-point pyrolysis mass spectrometry. The mesophilic and psychrotolerant photobacteria were clearly separated in each of the analyses. Both procedures indicated that the spoilage isolates of P. phosphoreum had originated from the live fish as strains from the fish intestines and from the spoiled products were recovered in the same sub-groups. One sub-group of psychrotolerant P. phosphoreum strains, which was selected in modified atmosphere packed fish stored at low temperature, was also highlighted using each of the methods. The importance of classifying food spoilage bacteria has been shown and a simple key generated for the identification of luminous and non-luminous isolates of Photobacterium phosphoreum.

Cerebral blood flow increases evoked by electrical stimulation of rat cerebellar cortex: relation to excitatory synaptic activity and nitric oxide synthesis

The purpose of this study was to examine mechanisms involved in the coupling of neuronal activity to cerebral blood flow (CBF). CBF was measured in rat cerebellum using laser-Doppler flowmetry during stimulus-evoked neuronal activity and related to the distribution of the extracellular field potential. Local electrical stimulation of the cerebellar cortex activated a narrow beam of parallel fibers (PFs) 100 microns across and evoked increases of CBF along (On-B) and perpendicular (Off-B) to the beam. Increases of CBF and field potentials were recorded for a distance of up to 1500 microns along the activated beam, and perpendicular to the beam, in a zone approximately 1000 microns wide, i.e. about 10 times wider than the zone in which synaptic excitation took place. CBF increased as a function of stimulus frequency up to 75 Hz, the response being larger On-B than Off-B. TTX abolished both the field potentials and the CBF responses at all frequencies, suggesting that action potentials were mechanistically related to the evoked CBF increases. CBF changes were unchanged by picrotoxin, a blocker of GABA(A) receptors, consistent with the idea that inhibitory synaptic activity does not contribute to CBF increases. The latency to the CBF rise was much shorter On-B than Off-B for the same distance from the stimulating electrode. This may suggest that the CBF response Off-B is dependent on diffusion of vasoactive substances from neuronal structures activated by the parallel fibers On-B. Nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibition with NG-nitro-L-Arginine increased the time latency to onset of CBF rise by 2-4 times and attenuated the evoked CBF increase by approximately 50%. Sodium nitroprusside, a NO donor, increased baseline CBF, but did not reverse the effects of L-NNA. Thus the initial part of the evoked CBF rise is probably mediated by NO, which also contributes to the later part of the response. This study provides insight into the distribution and mechanism of neurally evoked increases of CBF, of putative importance for the interpretation of activation studies in animals and humans.

Transient transport across an inhomogeneous blood-retina barrier

A mathematical model for transport across the blood-retina barrier and diffusion into the vitreous body of the human eye is formulated. The eye is modeled as a sphere, the surface of which represents the blood-retina barrier. The equations of the model are solved analytically, using an expansion in spherical harmonics and inversion of the Laplace transform in the time variable. The numerical properties of the solution are investigated and the applicability of the model to the analysis of data from three-dimensional vitreous fluorometry is discussed.

Qualitative and quantitative characterization of spoilage bacteria from packed fish

The large cells recently suggested to be responsible for spoilage of packed cod, have been identified as Photobacterium phosphoreum. The spoilage activity of these cells, of Shewanella putrefaciens and of other microorganisms isolated form spoiled packed cod has been studied. Both qualitative and quantitative tests were used for characterization of the microbial spoilage activity. The importance of the different groups of microorganisms was evaluated by comparison of microbial spoilage activity determined in model substrates and in product experiments. The yield factor for production of trimethylamine (YTMA/CFU) and the cell concentration determined at the time of off-odour detection were used as quantitative measurements of microbial spoilage activity. On average cells of P. phosphoreum produced 30 times more TMA than cells of S. putrefaciens, YTMA/CFU of the two organisms were 10(-8.0) mg-N TMA/cfu and 10(-9.5) mg-N TMA/cfu, respectively. With these yield factors the level of TMA found in spoiled packed cod (30 mg-N TMA/100g) corresponds to about 10(7) cfu/g of P. phosphoreum and to 10(8)-10(9) cfu/g of S. putrefaciens. 10(7) cfu/g of P. phosphoreum were actually found in spoiled packed cod suggesting this organism could be responsible for spoilage. High cell concentrations of more than 10(8) cfu/g of S. putrefaciens were required for production of detectable off-odours and is was concluded that this organism is without importance for spoilage of packed cod.

Serum levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) in healthy infants, children, and adolescents: the relation to IGF-I, IGF-II, IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, age, sex, body mass index, and pubertal maturation

Circulating IGF-I and -II are bound to specific insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding proteins (IGFBPs), of which IGFBP-3 binds the majority of the IGFs. IGFBP-3 levels are regulated by GH and have been suggested to provide additional information on GH secretory capacity compared to IGF-I. However, the diagnostic value of IGFBP-3 is still controversial, perhaps because the quality of the available normative data for IGFBP-3 varies. It has recently been shown that a large number of individuals is required to establish reference ranges for IGF-I that take into account age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and pubertal stage. Therefore, we measured IGFBP-3, IGF-I, IGF-II, IGFBP-1, and IGFBP-2 levels by RIA in 907 healthy children to establish well characterized normative data on IGFBP-3 according to age, sex, and pubertal stage and to study the complex relationship between IGFs and their BPs in puberty. We found that IGFBP-3 levels increase with age in children, with maximal levels in puberty; girls experience peak values approximately 1 yr earlier than boys. Age, sex, height, BMI, and pubertal maturation were all important factors in determining the circulating levels of IGFBP-3, whereas IGF-I levels were unaffected by BMI. Comparison of IGFBP-3 with IGF-1 concentrations revealed that they did not exhibit the same developmental pattern in puberty. IGF-I levels increased to relatively higher levels than IGFBP-3, leading to an increasing molar ratio between IGF-I and IGFBP-3 in puberty, when growth velocity is high. Concomitantly, IGF-II and IGFBP-2 levels were unchanged throughout puberty, whereas IGFBP-1 levels declined with age in prepubertal children, with lowest values in puberty. There was a highly significant correlation between IGF-I and -II and IGFBP-3 on a molar basis (r = 0.84; P < 0.0001). Thus, we speculate that IGFBP-3 is pivotal for circulating IGF bioactivity and that the increase in the molar ratio between IGF-I and IGFBP-3 reflects an increase in free, biologically active IGF-I. In conclusion, we have provided normative data on a large group of healthy individuals and conclude that age, sex, height, BMI, and pubertal maturation have to be taken into account before a single IGFBP-3 value in a growth-retarded child can be evaluated properly.

Modelling of microbial activity and prediction of shelf life for packed fresh fish

Prediction of shelf life based on growth of specific spoilage organisms (SSO) in model substrates was studied. The effect of CO2 on the growth kinetics for Photobacterium phosphoreum and Shewanella putrefaciens was quantified and modelled. Results showed that microbial spoilage of packed cod stored with various concentrations of CO2 was accurately predicted from the effect of CO2 on P. phosphoreum grown in model substrates. The short shelf life extensions previously reported for packed cod therefore can be explained by the high CO2 resistance of this Gram negative organism. S. putrefaciens was very sensitive to CO2 and growth rates could not be related to the shelf life of packed cod. Growth curves without lag phases were found for all concentrations of CO2 and for both the microorganisms studied. For the fitting of these growth curves the log-transformed Logistic models were selected after comparison with the 'modified Gompertz' models and with the model of Baranyi et al. (1993). The effect of CO2 on mu max was well described by a 2 parameter square root model. Validation of kinetic models by comparison of shelf life predictions with shelf life determined by sensory evaluations in product experiments was preferred for comparison of microbial growth rates determined in product and model system experiments. Kinetic modelling was found to be valuable for both evaluation and prediction of microbial fish spoilage and an iterative approach for development of kinetic shelf life models was suggested.

Fluorescein transport across the human blood-retina barrier in the direction vitreous to blood. Quantitative assessment in vivo

Inward and outward movement of flourescein across the human blood-retina barrier was studied in five healthy volunteers, using a differential spectrofluorometry method that eliminates the contribution of fluorescein glucuronide to the total fluorescence in the vitreous and in plasma. The inward permeability across the blood-retina barrier, which is presumed to be passive, and the diffusion coefficient in the vitreous for fluorescein was calculated from data obtained 1 h after intravenous injection of fluorescein. The rate of elimination of fluorescein from the vitreous across the blood-retina barrier was estimated from data obtained 7 to 12 h after injection of fluorescein. The calculations were based upon the free plasma fluorescein decay curve and the preretinal fluorescein gradient in the vitreous. The mean inward permeability of fluorescein was 1.39 x 10(-7) cm/sec (range: 0.70-2.06 x 10(-7) cm/sec), whereas the mean outward permeability was 1.51 x 10(-5) cm/sec (range: 1.14-1.73 x 10(-5) cm/sec). We have thus found that the movement of fluorescein across the blood-retina barrier is highly asymmetric, the outward transport being more than 100 times faster than the passive inward leakage. This could indicate the presence of an active pumping mechanism in the blood-retina barrier, responsible for fluorescein transport in the direction from the vitreous to the blood.

Estimation of bacterial growth rates from turbidimetric and viable count data

The relationship between maximum specific growth rates (mu max) determined from viable counts and turbidimetric measurements for a range of bacterial species is examined in order to assess the potential of turbidimetric methods in predictive microbiology. Two methods for the estimation of mu max from turbidimetric data are presented. One is based on absorbance and the other on transmittance measurements. Both are compared to estimates obtained by viable count methods. Calibration factors, a function to correct the non-linearity of absorbance measurements, and variance stabilising transformations for corrected absorbance measurements and for viable count data, are determined. It is concluded that turbidimetric measurements may be used reliably for estimation of mu max.

Tamoxifen and bone metabolism in postmenopausal low-risk breast cancer patients: a randomized study

PURPOSE

This trial was undertaken to evaluate the effect of adjuvant tamoxifen on bone metabolism in postmenopausal women undergoing surgery for low-risk breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In an open trial, 25 women were randomized to receive tamoxifen 30 mg/d for 2 years, and 25 women constituted the control group. Twenty women treated with tamoxifen and 23 women in the control group provided data for the analysis. Inclusion criteria were operation for low-risk breast cancer and cessation of menstruations for more than 1 year. Exclusion criteria were presence of metastases, disorders of bone metabolism, contraindications against tamoxifen, use of drugs with influence on bone metabolism, ailments that made bone mineral measurements impossible, and age greater than 65 years. Repeated measurements of bone mineral density and content at the lumbar spine and forearms, serum alkaline phosphatase, phosphate, and ionized calcium were performed in all patients.

RESULTS

Lumbar spine bone mineral density increased during the first year in women treated with tamoxifen and then stabilized, compared with decreased bone mineral density in the control group (P = .00074). Bone mineral content at the forearms remained almost stable in tamoxifen-treated women compared with a decrease in the control group (P = .024). Serum alkaline phosphatase, phosphate, and ionized calcium decreased in the tamoxifen group (P < .00001, P = .002, and P = .002, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Tamoxifen has estrogen-like effects on bone metabolism that result in an increase and stabilization of bone mineral density in the axial skeleton and a stabilization of bone mineral content in the appendicular skeleton.

Serum insulin-like growth factor-I in 1030 healthy children, adolescents, and adults: relation to age, sex, stage of puberty, testicular size, and body mass index

Serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) increase with age and pubertal development. The large variation in circulating IGF-I levels in adolescence makes it difficult to use the IGF-I value of a single child in the assessment of his growth status. In addition, the interference of IGF-binding proteins in many IGF-I assays contributes to this problem. We measured IGF-I in acid-ethanol-extracted serum from 1030 healthy children, adolescents, and adults, employing a RIA that reduces interference of IGF-binding proteins by using monoiodinated Tyr31-[125I]des-(1-3)IGF-I as radioligand. Mean serum IGF-I concentrations increased slowly in prepubertal children from 80-200 micrograms/L with a further steep increase during puberty to approximately 500 micrograms/L. After puberty, a subsequent continuous fall in circulating IGF-I levels was apparent throughout adulthood to a mean of 100 micrograms/L at the age of 80 yr (P < 0.0001). Girls had maximal IGF-I levels at 14.5 yr of age, whereas boys had peak IGF-I levels 1 yr later. This is almost 2 yr later than average peak height velocity. The large variation in serum IGF-I levels during puberty was diminished when data were separated according to sex and Tanner stage of puberty. Interestingly, we found a significant variation with age within the Tanner stages; there was an increase in serum IGF-I concentrations with age in the early pubertal stages and a decrease in the late stages (P < 0.05). Serum IGF-I increased concomitantly with increasing testicular volume. Multiple regression analysis revealed that serum IGF-I levels predicted height velocity in the following year (r = 0.33; P < 0.0001). Body mass index did not correlate significantly with serum IGF-I in prepubertal children in a multiple regression analysis. In conclusion, there was a significant variation in serum IGF-I levels with age within a given Tanner stage of puberty in addition to the well known increase with increasing age or pubertal stage. Accordingly, the effects of sex, age, and puberty on serum IGF-I cannot be separated into simple additive components when studying 1030 children in a cross-sectional design. Thus, the age-, sex-, and puberty-corrected IGF-I values may, in fact, improve the use of serum IGF-I as a diagnostic tool to distinguish between a child with retarded puberty and a GH-deficient individual.

Spoilage and shelf-life of cod fillets packed in vacuum or modified atmospheres

Microbial growth, sensory and chemical changes and composition of gas atmosphere were studied in vacuum packed (VP) and modified atmosphere packed (MAP) cod fillets stored at 0 degree C. Contrary to previous studies, coccobacilli and pleomorphic Gram-negative microorganisms (2-4 by 2-5 microns) and not Shewanella putrefaciens were found most likely to be the main spoilage organisms. These microorganisms, which may be Photobacterium phosphoreum, can explain the short shelf-life extension of VP and MAP fish products compared to meat products. It is suggested that they may inhibit the typical H2S-producing fish spoilage bacteria, S. putrefaciens, as the maximum concentration of H2S-producing bacteria found in MAP fish products is very low. Compared to VP, a shelf-life extension of 6-7 days was obtained with 48% CO2 in MAP. However, with pure CO2 the shelf life was only extended by 2-3 days. Poor texture and high drip loss indicated that the shelf life of these fillets was limited by chemical reactions and not only by microbial activity.

Lens fluorescence in relation to nephropathy in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

The relationship between diabetic nephropathy and blue-green lens fluorescence, lens transmittance, and other lens fluorometry parameters was studied in patients with long-term insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The findings in 10 patients who presented with diabetic nephropathy were compared with those of 11 patients of comparable age and duration of diabetes but without nephropathy. Diabetic nephropathy was associated with increased lens fluorescence (P = 0.04) and decreased lens transmittance (P = 0.045). We propose that lens changes may be responsible for various psychophysical abnormalities in diabetic patients and that our results explain the correlation of these abnormalities with the degree of microangiopathy.

Differential spectrofluorometry in the human vitreous: blood-retina barrier permeability to fluorescein and fluorescein glucuronide

A method is described for the separate quantitation of fluorescein and fluorescein glucuronide in the vitreous by differential spectrofluorometry. An ocular fluorometer was equipped with monochromatic laser excitation at two rapidly interchangeable wavelengths. The data analysis accounts for absorption of light in the cornea, lens, and extrinsic ocular fluorophores. Examination of seven patients with insulin-dependent diabetes and different degrees of diabetic retinopathy demonstrated that both fluorescein and fluorescein glucuronide enter the eye through the blood-retina barrier. The mean ratio between the permeabilities of fluorescein glucuronide and fluorescein was 0.9 (range, 0.3-1.9). Thus, differences in the molecular size and lipid solubility of the two substances appear to be of little or no importance for their inward penetration of the barrier. No association was found between the relative permeability and the degree of retinopathy.