bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic analysis of the chromate ion transporter (CHR) superfamily
Authors: Díaz‐Pérez César , Cervantes Carlos , Campos‐García Jesús , Julián‐Sánchez Adriana , Riveros‐Rosas Héctor
Published: November 2007

ChrA is a membrane protein that confers resistance to the toxic ion chromate through the energy‐dependent chromate efflux from the cytoplasm. In the protein databases, ChrA is a member of the chromate ion transporter (CHR) superfamily, composed of at least several dozens of members, distributed in the three domains of life. The aim of this work was to perform a phylogenetic analysis of the CHR superfamily. An exhaustive search for ChrA homologous proteins was carried out at the National Center for Biotechnology Information database. One hundred and thirty‐five sequences were identified as members of the CHR superfamily [77 long‐chain sequences, or bidomains (LCHR), and 58 short‐chain sequences, or monodomains (SCHR)], organized mainly as tandem pairs of genes whose resultant proteins probably possess oppositely oriented membrane topology. LCHR sequences were split into amino and carboxyl domains, and the resultant domains were aligned with the SCHR proteins. A phylogenetic tree was reconstructed using four different methods, obtaining similar results. The domains were grouped into three clusters: the SCHR proteins cluster, the amino domain cluster of LCHR proteins and the carboxyl domain cluster of LCHR proteins. These results, as well as differences in the genomic context of CHR proteins, enabled the proteins to be sorted into two families (SCHR and LCHR), and 10 subfamilies. Evidence was found suggesting an ancient origin of LCHR proteins from the fusion of two SCHR protein‐encoding genes; however, some secondary events of fusion and fission may have occurred later. The separate distribution of the LCHR and SCHR proteins, differences in the genomic context in both groups and the fact that chromate transport has been demonstrated only in LCHR proteins suggest that the CHR proteins comprise two or more paralogous groups in the CHR superfamily.
The iron man
Authors: O'Hara Kieron
Published: November 2007

Kieron O'Hara argues that David Cameron is more of a Conservative than Thatcher ever was
Out of time?
Authors: Heinberg Richard
Published: November 2007

It is claimed that resource scarcity will be a big threat to national security in the future as the UK will find itself increasingly reliant on unstable regions for its fuel supplies. Oil may be the first resource over which we feel the pinch. Here Richard Heinberg argues that the end of oil constitutes the greatest economic challenge since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution
Small Islands, Big Problem: HIV/AIDS and Youth in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Baird Donna S. , Yearwood Edilma L. , Perrino Carrol S.
Published: November 2007

PROBLEM:  In the Caribbean region, women and young girls are becoming infected with HIV at a 6:1 rate more than men. Our study investigated effective methods for reducing HIV/AIDS risks among adolescent girls in the Caribbean.

METHODS:  One hundred females, aged 15–21, were randomly assigned into a control or intervention group. Subjects were assessed at baseline and postintervention.

FINDINGS:  Analysis of variance revealed that items measuring feelings about self, perceived risk, and sexual attitudes had statistically significant postintervention increase.

CONCLUSION:  Sustainable HIV/AIDS prevention programs that address stigma, promote HIV testing, and reinforce safer sex practices are needed.
Using Nursing Diagnoses in Prevention and Management of Chemotherapy‐Induced Alopecia in the Cancer Patient
Authors: Dougherty Lisa
Published: November 2007

PURPOSE.  To explore the use of NANDA, NIC, and NOC classification systems in the psychological and physical care of patients experiencing chemotherapy‐induced alopecia.

METHOD.  Review of the literature on alopecia in relation to the NANDA nursing diagnosis classification.

FINDINGS.  Two key nursing diagnoses are related to alopecia. One is disturbed body image and the other is grieving.

CONCLUSION.  By using nursing diagnoses, the nurse can identify the defining characteristics associated with the specific problems experienced by the patient with alopecia.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Moving from the nursing diagnoses, the nurse can develop individualized nursing interventions and generate a realistic outcome in collaboration with the patient.
Generalized Wiedemann–Franz law and temperature jump in space plasmas with ion-acoustic turbulence
Authors: Bespalov P. A. , Savina O. N.
Published: October 2007

In this Letter, the generalized Wiedemann–Franz law for the non-isothermic quasi-neutral plasma with developed ion-acoustic turbulence is proved. This law determines the relationship between electrical and thermal conductivities in a plasma with well-developed ion-acoustic turbulence. The anomalously low thermal conductivity, which leads to the formation of high temperature gradients in the zone of the temperature jump, is explained. Results are used to explain some properties of the solar chromosphere–corona transition region.
Meteor luminosity simulation through laser ablation of meteorites
Authors: Milley E. P. , Hawkes R. L. , Ehrman J. M.
Published: October 2007

Light production mechanisms during ablation of meteors in planetary atmospheres are still not well understood. We have used a high-power pulsed (15 mJ per 10-ns pulse) Nd:YAG laser, frequency-doubled to 532-nm wavelength, to heat chondritic meteorite samples rapidly, and then used CCD imaging and spectral cameras to search for light produced by the rapidly heated meteorite vapour. We report here that light is produced by the rapidly heated and expanding ablated material without the need for collision with a high-speed atomic beam. The light production region is of the order of 2 mm in diameter. The light produced is a combination of either continuum or unresolved spectral line emission, along with spectral emission lines of Ca, Fe, Na, N, Mg, Si and O, with spectra from both neutral and singly ionized species. We have used a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to characterize the size of the ablated region (approximately 160 μm wide and 170 μm deep). The SEM, equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, was also used to perform elemental analysis of our sample, which confirmed the presence of the identified elements in the original meteorite. The current experiments were done at room temperature and pressure, with mean power input rates that would correspond to low atmospheric penetration of meteorites. While others have used similar techniques for remote identification of elements present on surfaces in space and in meteorites, to our knowledge this is the first paper to propose laser ablation as a means of studying light production in modest-sized meteors.
Gravitational arcs as a perturbation of the perfect ring
Authors: Alard C.
Published: October 2007

The image of a point situated at the centre of a circularly symmetric potential is a perfect circle. The perturbative effect of non-symmetrical potential terms is to displace and break the perfect circle. These two effects, displacement and breaking, are directly related to the Taylor expansion of the perturbation at first order on the circle. The numerical accuracy of this perturbative approach is tested in the case of an elliptical potential with a core radius. The contour of the images and the caustic lines are well reproduced by the perturbative approach. These results suggest that the modelling of arcs, and in particular that of tangential arcs, may be simplified by using a general perturbative representation for points located on the circle. This linear perturbative approach is accurate when the gradient of the circular potential is almost linear; this constraint is satisfied when the potential is nearly isothermal.
Re-born fireballs in gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Ghisellini G. , Celotti A. , Ghirlanda G. , Firmani C. , Nava L.
Published: October 2007

We consider the interaction between a relativistic fireball and material assumed to be still located just outside the progenitor star. Only a small fraction of the expected mass is sufficient to decelerate the fireball efficiently, leading to dissipation of most of its kinetic energy. Since the scattering optical depths are still large at distances comparable to the progenitor radius, the dissipated energy is trapped in the system, accelerating it to relativistic velocities. The process resembles the birth of another fireball at radii R∼ 1011 cm, not far from the transparency radius, and with starting bulk Lorentz factors Γc∼ 10. As seen in the observer frame, this ‘re-generated’ fireball appears collimated within an angle θj= 1/Γc. If the central engine works intermittently, the funnel can, at least partially, refill and the process can repeat itself. We discuss how this idea can help to solve some open issues of the more conventional internal shock scenario for interpreting gamma-ray burst properties.
Evaluating Ground Water–Sea Water Interactions via Resistivity and Seepage Meters
Authors: Taniguchi Makoto , Ishitobi Tomotoshi , Burnett William C. , Wattayakorn Gullaya
Published: October 2007

We investigated submarine ground water discharge and salt water–fresh water interactions at two locations along the shoreline of the Upper Gulf of Thailand to evaluate mechanisms of water and material transport into the coastal zone. Our data set illustrates the value of using a combined approach consisting of automatic seepage meters to monitor flow rates while assessing the conductivity (salinity) of the subterranean fluids via remote resistivity measurements. Negative correlations between electric conductivities of fluids measured directly inside seepage meter chambers and the remotely assessed resistivities of subsurface pore water show that such measurements may evaluate the spatial distribution of flow rates as well as the subterranean water quality in the coastal zone. Combined seepage and resistivity measurements may thus provide a more complete understanding of coastal ground water dynamics.
Development of Saline Ground Water through Transpiration of Sea Water
Authors: Fass T. , Cook P. G. , Stieglitz T. , Herczeg A. L.
Published: October 2007

As vegetation usually excludes salt during water uptake, transpiration will increase the salinity of the residual water. If the source water is sea water, then the residual water may become highly saline. In the unconfined coastal aquifer of the tropical Burdekin River delta, northeastern Australia, areas of highly saline ground water with chloride concentrations up to almost three times that of sea water occur up to 15 km from the present coastline, and are attributed to transpiration by mangrove vegetation during periods of high sea level. Radiogenic (14C) carbon isotope analyses indicate that ground water with chloride concentrations between 15,000 and 35,000 mg/L is mostly between 4000 and 6000 years old, at which time sea level was 2 to 3 m higher than present. Stable isotope analyses of oxygen‐18 and deuterium show no evidence for evaporative enrichment of this water. Oxygen‐18, deuterium, and stable (δ13C) carbon isotope analyses of ground water and soil water point to a recharge environment beneath the mangrove forests during this postglacial sea level high stand. During that period, transpiration of the mangrove forests would have led to high chloride concentrations in the residual ground water, without inducing isotopic fractionation. Due to the higher density, this hypersaline water moved downward through the aquifer by gravity and has formed lenses of highly saline ground water at the bottom of the unconfined aquifer.
Perimenopausal symptoms, quality of life, and health behaviors in users and nonusers of hormone therapy
Authors: Twiss Janice J. , Wegner Jodi , Hunter Michelle , Kelsay Melissa , Rathe‐Hart Mindy , Salado Wendy
Published: October 2007

Purpose: This pilot study was designed to determine the difference in frequency and distress related to perimenopausal symptoms in users and nonusers of hormone therapy (HT), to identify the difference in quality of life (QoL) indicators, and to determine if there is a relationship between QoL and frequency and distress of symptoms for users and nonusers of HT between the ages of 40 and 55 years.

Data source: Self‐reported responses to the Perimenopause Assessment Questionnaire with five QoL indicators imbedded, the Women’s Health Assessment Scale, height, weight, and body mass index from 77 users and 89 nonusers of HT.

Conclusions: More users reported using HT to control perimenopausal symptoms than for birth control or gynecological problems. Nonusers reported a higher percentage of a variety of symptoms compared to users, with more psychosomatic symptoms being reported. Both groups identified lack of energy as the most frequent and distressful symptom. There was a significant difference in frequency of symptoms between groups and a significant difference in distress of symptoms. There were significant negative correlations with the five QoL indicators and frequency and distress of symptoms for users and nonusers of HT, with exception of stress and frequency of symptoms for users. More psychosomatic symptoms were correlated with QoL for nonusers. Cold sweats, loss of interest, miserable and sad, and life not worth living were highly significant for nonusers with QoL, while feeling unattractive, decreased well‐being, and lack of enjoyment for users was highly significant.

Implications for practice: Perimenopause is more than hot flashes and abnormal menses. A checklist of perimenopausal symptoms should be used as an assessment tool at each annual visit or more frequently to determine the significance of the symptoms a woman might be experiencing. Assessing the perimenopausal knowledge base is very important. Most importantly, there is a need for perimenopausal educational programs to be developed and implemented.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED Critical care nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists interface patterns with computer‐based decision support systems
Authors: Weber Scott
Published: October 2007

Purpose: The purposes of this review are to examine the types of clinical decision support systems in use and to identify patterns of how critical care advanced practice nurses (APNs) have integrated these systems into their nursing care patient management practices. The decision‐making process itself is analyzed with a focus on how automated systems attempt to capture and reflect human decisional processes in critical care nursing, including how systems actually organize and process information to create outcome estimations based on patient clinical indicators and prognosis logarithms. Characteristics of APN clinicians and implications of these characteristics on decision system use, based on the body of decision system user research, are introduced.

Data sources: A review of the Medline, Ovid, CINAHL, and PubMed literature databases was conducted using “clinical decision support systems,”“computerized clinical decision making,” and “APNs”; an examination of components of several major clinical decision systems was also undertaken.

Conclusions: Use patterns among APNs and other clinicians appear to vary; there is a need for original research to examine how APNs actually use these systems in their practices in critical care settings. Because APNs are increasingly responsible for admission to, and transfer from, critical care settings, more understanding is needed on how they interact with this technology and how they see automated decision systems impacting their practices.

Implications for practice: APNs who practice in critical care settings vary significantly in how they use the clinical decision systems that are in operation in their practice settings. These APNs must have an understanding of their use patterns with these systems and should critically assess whether their patient care decision making is affected by the technology.
From the sidelines: Coaching as a nurse practitioner strategy for improving health outcomes
Authors: Hayes Eileen , Kalmakis Karen A.
Published: October 2007

Purpose:The purposes of this study were to explore coaching as a nurse practitioner (NP) strategy for improving patient health outcomes and to lay a foundation for validating coaching benefits.

Data sources:Review of coaching literature in psychology, sports, business, and nursing.

Conclusions:Coaching has been reported as successful in psychology, sports, business, and more recently nursing, for assisting people to achieve goals that are important to them. Coaching may be very effective in encouraging, inspiring, and empowering patients to reach their maximum health potential, particularly if lifestyle change is required; however, coaching research is in its early stages. Coaching is not well defined, so claims of coaching benefits must be viewed cautiously. Coaching is an expected NP role competency, but it is not well explicated in the literature. Defining the concept of coaching from multidisciplinary consensus, expanding knowledge of the coaching process, and consciously implementing coaching communication in the NP/patient primary care encounter may result in measurable outcomes that demonstrate coaching effectiveness.

Implications for practice:Coaching fits well with the holistic, collaborative approach to patient care which NPs value. Coaching provides an opportunity to shift traditional thinking about patient/provider relationships and how to motivate patients toward behavior change. The challenge for NPs is to take the time to learn the coaching process, employ coaching communication strategies in the primary care encounter, and engage in research that measures coaching effectiveness.
Current issues for nurse practitioners: Hyponatremia
Authors: Haskal Ruth
Published: October 2007

Purpose: To review the assessment, diagnosis, and management of hyponatremia (serum sodium <135 mEq/L), the most common electrolyte disturbance as a result of dysregulation of water balance in hospitalized or institutionalized patients.

Data sources: Comprehensive search using keywords AVP receptor antagonists, hyponatremia, SIADH, conivaptan, tolvaptan, lixivaptan, nurse practitioner, and others was carried out using the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) Web site from which full‐text articles were obtained. Meeting abstracts were obtained from scientific sessions including the American Society of Nephrology Renal Week 2004 and the Endocrine Society‘s 87th Annual Meeting (2005). The Vaprisol (conivaptan hydrochloride injection) package insert was referenced and obtained from FDA.gov.

Conclusions: A diagnosis of hyponatremia requires thorough investigation for underlying causes and prompt treatment to prevent poor patient outcomes. In clinical trials, a new class of drugs called the arginine vasopressin (AVP) receptor antagonists or aquaretics has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of hyponatremia. Among this class of agents, intravenous conivaptan hydrochloride, indicated for the treatment of euvolemic hyponatremia in hospitalized patients, is the first drug in class approved for use.

Implications for practice: Elderly patients, and those with certain conditions such as heart failure, tuberculosis, cirrhosis, and head injury, may be at increased risk for hyponatremia. In hospitalized patients following surgery and the use of certain medications, hyponatremia is a common condition. A thorough understanding of the physiology of water balance and the risk factors associated with hyponatremia is essential for prompt and effective intervention. Awareness of the limitations of conventional therapies and the availability of new treatment options for hyponatremia allows clinicians to optimize patient care.
Implementation of a Coordinated School Health Program in a Rural, Low‐Income Community
Authors: Cornwell Lisa , Hawley Suzanne R. , Romain Theresa St.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Coordinated school health programs (CSHPs) bring together educational and community resources in the school environment. This method is particularly important in rural areas like Kansas, where resources and trained health professionals are in short supply. Rural Stafford County, Kansas, struggles with health professional shortages and a low‐income, high‐need population.

Methods:  In 2001, Stafford County’s Unified School District 349 began a multiyear CSHP development process, which required adaptations for implementation in a rural area. First, a CSHP team was formed of community and administrative stakeholders as well as school system representatives. Next, the CSHP team assessed school district demographics so the program framework could be targeted to health needs. During a yearlong planning phase, the CSHP team determined 4 priority areas for program development, as limited staff and funds precluded developing programs in all 8 traditional CSHP areas. Program activities were tailored to the population demographics and available resources.

Results:  Program outcomes were supported by School Health Index (SHI) data. Of the 8 CSHP focus areas, the SHI found high scores in 3 of the Stafford CSHP’s priority areas: Health Services; Psychological, Counseling, and Social Services; and Physical Education. The fourth Stafford CSHP priority area, Nutrition Services, scored similarly to the less prioritized areas.

Conclusions:  The process by which the Stafford school district modified and implemented CSHP methods can serve as a model for CSHPs in other rural, high‐need areas.
Elementary School Parents’/Guardians’ Perceptions of School Health Service Personnel and the Services They Provide*
Authors: Kirchofer Gregg , Telljohann Susan K. , Price James H. , Dake Joseph A. , Ritchie Martin
Published: October 2007

Background:  The school nurse, the school social worker, and the school counselor play an important role in promoting the health of children. Health services in the school setting provide opportunities to appraise, protect, and promote student health. The purpose of this study was to identify parents’ or caregivers’ perceptions and beliefs regarding the importance of schools providing various health services to their elementary school–aged children. In addition, the study examined the levels of parental support for, perceptions of, and contact with school health service personnel.

Methods:  In 2005, a nationally representative random sample of 369 (51% return rate) parents of elementary school–aged children completed the questionnaire developed for this study.

Results:  A majority of parents/caregivers reported that their child’s school had a school nurse (78.8%) and counselor (60.5%), but only 22.6% reported their school had a social worker. A majority of parents/caregivers perceived full‐time school nurses (86.3%), school counselors (78.6%), and school social workers (56.3%) as important or extremely important and that schools should be held responsible for having each in their child’s elementary school. A majority of parents/caregivers were willing to pay an increase in yearly tax dollars to have full‐time school health personnel.

Conclusions:  This study established a level of parental support for, perceptions of, and contact with school health service personnel. Parents were most supportive of school nurses and should be perceived as allies in ensuring job security.
Demographic Differences in the Prevalence, Co‐Occurrence, and Correlates of Adolescent Bullying at School
Authors: Carlyle Kellie E , Steinman Kenneth J.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Despite a large literature on bullying, few studies simultaneously examine different dimensions of the phenomenon or consider how they vary by demographic characteristics. As a result, research findings in this area have been inconsistent. This article focuses on 2 dimensions of bullying behaviors—aggression and victimization—and examines demographic variation in their prevalence, co‐occurrence, and association with other health outcomes.

Methods:  School‐based surveys were administered to a census of 6th‐12th graders in 16 school districts across a large metropolitan area in the United States (n = 79,492). A 2‐factor scale assessed repeated experiences with bullying aggression and victimization.

Results:  Both dimensions of bullying tended to be more common among younger, male, African American and Native American students. There were, however, several exceptions as well as considerable variation in the magnitude of demographic differences. Most youth involved with bullying were either perpetrators or victims, but not both. For example, only 7.4% of all youths were classified as bully/victims. Substance use was more strongly associated with aggression, whereas depressive affect was more strongly associated with victimization.

Conclusions:  Researchers should distinguish different dimensions of bullying and consider how they vary by demographic characteristics. In particular, repeated aggression and victimization largely involve different students and may require distinct approaches to prevention.
Real‐time RT‐PCR assays for type and subtype detection of influenza A and B viruses
Authors: Daum Luke T. , Canas Linda C. , Arulanandam Bernard P. , Niemeyer Debra , Valdes James J. , Chambers James P.
Published: November 2007

Influenza viruses type A (H3N2 and H1N1 subtypes) and B are the most prevalently circulating human influenza viruses. However, an increase in several confirmed cases of high pathogenic H5N1 in humans has raised concerns of a potential pandemic underscoring the need for rapid, point of contact detection. In this report, we describe development and evaluation of ‘type,’ i.e., influenza virus A and B, and ‘subtype,’ i.e., H1, H3, and H5, specific, single‐step/reaction vessel format, real‐time RT‐PCR assays using total RNA from archived reference strains, shell‐vial cultured and uncultured primary (throat swab/nasal wash) clinical samples. The type A and B specific assays detected all 16 influenza type A viruses and both currently circulating influenza B lineages (Yamagata and Victoria), respectively. ‘Type’ and ‘subtype’ specific assays utilize one common set of thermocycling conditions, are specific and highly sensitive (detection threshold of approximately 100 target template molecules). All clinical specimens and samples were evaluated using both the unconventional portable Ruggedized Advanced Pathogen Identification Device (RAPID) and standard laboratory bench LightCycler instruments. These potentially field‐deployable assays could offer significant utility for rapid, point of care screening needs arising from a pandemic influenza outbreak.
Qualitative and Nutritional Differences in Processing Tomatoes Grown under Commercial Organic and Conventional Production Systems
Authors: Barrett D.M. , Weakley C. , Diaz J.V. , Watnik M.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  Organically grown products experienced a doubling in percent penetration of organic sales into retail markets during the period from 1997 to 2003; however, there is still a debate over the perceived quality advantage of organically grown fruits and vegetables. In a study focusing on commercial production of processing tomatoes, samples were analyzed from 4 growers with matched organic and conventional fields. For the 4 growers studied, individual analysis of variance results indicated that tomato juice prepared from organically produced tomatoes on some farms was significantly higher in soluble solids (°Brix), higher in consistency, and titratable acidity, but lower in red color, ascorbic acid, and total phenolics content in the microwaved juice. Results were significantly different among specific growers, and this may be attributed to differences in soil type and soil nutrients, tomato cultivar, environmental conditions, or other production‐related factors. Higher levels of soluble solids, titratable acidity, and consistency are desirable for the production of tomato paste, in that tomatoes with these attributes may be more flavorful and require less thermal treatment. This has the potential to result both in cost savings from less energy required in paste manufacture and potentially a higher quality product due to less thermal degradation of color, flavor, and nutrients. Future work may involve a larger number of commercial growers and correlation to controlled university research plots.
Combined Effect of Aqueous Chlorine Dioxide and Modified Atmosphere Packaging on Inhibiting Salmonella Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes in Mungbean Sprouts
Authors: Jin H.‐H. , Lee S.‐Y.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  This study was conducted to investigate the effect of chlorine dioxide (ClO2) combined with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on inhibiting total mesophilic microorganisms, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes in mungbean sprouts during refrigerated storage. Mungbean sprouts were packaged using 4 different methods (air, vacuum, CO2 gas, and N2 gas) following treatment with water or 100 ppm ClO2 for 5 min and stored at 5 ± 2 °C. The population of total mesophilic microorganisms in mungbean sprouts was about 8.4‐log10 CFU/g and this level was not significantly reduced by treatment with water or ClO2 (P > 0.05). However, when samples were packaged under vacuum, N2 gas, or CO2 gas following treatment with ClO2, the populations of total mesophilic microorganisms were significantly reduced during storage (P < 0.05). Levels of S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes in mungbean sprouts following inoculation were 4.6‐ and 5.6‐log10 CFU/g and treatment with water followed by different packaging conditions (air, vacuum, N2 gas, and CO2 gas) had no significant effect on population reduction (P > 0.05). However, treatment with ClO2 significantly reduced populations of S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes by 3.0‐ and 1.5‐log CFU/g, respectively (P < 0.05), and these reduced cell levels were maintained or decreased in samples packaged under vacuum or in N2 or CO2 gas during storage. These results suggest that the combination of ClO2 treatment and MAP such as CO2 gas packaging may be useful for inhibiting microbial contamination and maintaining quality in mungbean sprouts during storage.
Antimicrobial Chitosan‐Lysozyme (CL) Films and Coatings for Enhancing Microbial Safety of Mozzarella Cheese
Authors: Duan J. , Park S.‐I. , Daeschel M.A. , Zhao Y.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  This study investigated the antimicrobial activities of chitosan‐lysozyme (CL) composite films and coatings against tested microorganisms inoculated onto the surface of Mozzarella cheese. CL film‐forming solutions (FFS) with a pH of 4.4 to 4.5 were prepared by incorporating 0% or 60% lysozyme (per dry weight of chitosan) into chitosan FFS with or without a pH adjustment to 5.2. Sliced cheese was subjected to 3 CL package applications: film, lamination on a multilayer coextruded film, and coating. Cheese was inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, or Pseudomonas fluorescens at 104 CFU/g, or with mold and yeast at 102 CFU/g. Inoculated cheese was individually vacuum packaged and stored at 10 °C for sampling at 1, 7, and 14 d for bacteria, and at 10, 20, and 30 d for fungi. Inoculated bacteria survived but failed to multiply in untreated cheese during storage. Treated cheese received 0.43‐ to 1.25‐, 0.40‐ to 1.40‐, and 0.32‐ to 1.35‐log reductions in E. coli, P. fluorescens, and L. monocytogenes, respectively. Incorporation of 60% lysozyme in chitosan FFS showed greater antimicrobial effect than chitosan alone on P. fluorescens and L. monocytogenes. The pH adjustment only affected the antimicrobial activity on L. monocytogenes, with lower pH (unadjusted) showing greater antimicrobial effect than pH 5.2. Mold and yeast increased to 105 CFU/g in untreated cheese after 30 d storage. Growth of mold was completely inhibited in cheese packaged with CL films, while 0.24‐ to 1.90‐ and 0.06‐ to 0.50‐log reductions in mold populations were observed in cheese packaged with CL‐laminated films and coatings, respectively. All CL packaging applications resulted in 0.01‐ to 0.64‐log reduction in yeast populations.
Antiallergic Activities of Pigmented Rice Bran Extracts in Cell Assays
Authors: Choi Sun Phil , Kang Mi Young , Koh Hee Jong , Nam Seok Hyun , Friedman Mendel
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  Using a panel of chemical, biochemical, and cell assays, we determined inhibitory effects of extracts of the pigmented black rice brans on in vitro allergic reactions. Ethanol‐water (70% v/v) extracts from 5 pigmented brans were found to be more effective than an extract from a nonpigmented rice cultivar in suppressing the release of histamine and β‐hexosaminidase from basophilic RBL‐2H3 cells stimulated with both Ionophore A23187 and immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐antigen complexes. Suppression was also obtained with A23187‐stimulated rat peritoneal mast cells. The extent of inhibition of these 2 markers of the immune response was accompanied by an influx of calcium ions. The inhibition of the immune process by the pigmented brans was confirmed by the observed modulation of the proinflammatory cytokine gene expressions and cytokine release, as indicated by the reduction in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐4, and IL‐6 mRNA expressions determined with the reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Reduction of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 protein release from both the cultured cell line and peritoneal cells was further confirmed by enzyme‐linked immunoadsorbent assays. Rice bran from the LK1‐3‐6‐12‐1‐1 cultivar was the most effective inhibitor in all assays. This particular rice variety merits further evaluation as part of a human diet to ascertain its potential to protect against allergic diseases such as hay fever and asthma.
Identifying Drivers for Consumer Acceptance and Purchase Intent of Corn Tortilla
Authors: Herrera‐Corredor J.A. , Saidu J.E.P. , Khachatryan A. , Prinyawiwatkul W. , Carballo‐Carballo A. , Zepeda‐Bautista R.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  The traditional production of corn tortilla has been modified by new processing technologies to make possible a commercial‐scale production; this practice has resulted in products having sensory properties different from those produced by the traditional method. There is no published information on sensory attributes driving acceptance and purchase intent of corn tortillas. Identifying sensory drivers for acceptance and purchase intent of corn tortillas will help commercially produce products that satisfy consumers' expectations. A consumer study was conducted to evaluate acceptance and purchase intent of corn tortillas and determine drivers of acceptance and purchase intent of the products. Ten samples of corn tortillas were selected to represent a variety of corn tortillas available in the Mexican market. Three hundred Mexican consumers evaluated acceptability of appearance, color, thickness, rollability, resistance to tearing, aroma, chewiness, taste and aftertaste, and overall liking using a 9‐point hedonic scale. Overall acceptance and purchase intent were determined with a yes/no scale. Analysis of variance and multivariate analysis of variance revealed that consumers were able to differentiate differences in sensory acceptability among 10 samples. For example, 2 homemade and 1 small commercial‐scale samples, with an overall liking score of 6.6 to 6.7, were more acceptable than others. Rollability, resistance to tearing, and chewiness were attributes underlying overall differences among 10 samples. Attributes determining overall acceptance of corn tortillas were chewiness and overall liking. Purchase intent was influenced by overall appearance, rollability, chewiness, taste, and overall liking. This study revealed critical sensory attributes and their weights given by Mexican consumers when making decisions for acceptance and purchase intent of corn tortilla.
Acid, Bile, and Heat Tolerance of Free and Microencapsulated Probiotic Bacteria
Authors: Ding W.K. , Shah N.P.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  Eight strains of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium longum, L. salivarius, L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, B. lactis type Bl‐O4, and B. lactis type Bi‐07, were studied for their acid, bile, and heat tolerance. Microencapsulation in alginate matrix was used to enhance survival of the bacteria in acid and bile as well as a brief exposure to heat. Free probiotic organisms were used as a control. The acid tolerance of probiotic organisms was tested using HCl in MRS broth over a 2‐h incubation period. Bile tolerance was tested using 2 types of bile salts, oxgall and taurocholic acid, over an 8‐h incubation period. Heat tolerance was tested by exposing the probiotic organisms to 65 °C for up to 1 h. Results indicated microencapsulated probiotic bacteria survived better (P < 0.05) than free probiotic bacteria in MRS containing HCl. When free probiotic bacteria were exposed to oxgall, viability was reduced by 6.51‐log CFU/mL, whereas only 3.36‐log CFU/mL was lost in microencapsulated strains. At 30 min of heat treatment, microencapsulated probiotic bacteria survived with an average loss of only 4.17‐log CFU/mL, compared to 6.74‐log CFU/mL loss with free probiotic bacteria. However, after 1 h of heating both free and microencapsulated probiotic strains showed similar losses in viability. Overall microencapsulation improved the survival of probiotic bacteria when exposed to acidic conditions, bile salts, and mild heat treatment.
Elapid snake envenomation in dogs in New South Wales: a review
Authors: Heller J , Mellor DJ , Hodgson JL , Reid SWJ , Hodgson DR , Bosward KL
Published: October 2007

Elapid snake envenomation in dogs is a commonly occurring yet poorly described clinical entity. Twelve species of dangerously venomous elapid snakes are found in New South Wales that are capable of causing disease in dogs. Geographical distribution of these species varies, as does their venom composition and systemic envenomation syndromes produced in target species. Elapid venom may be divided into the components of prothrombin activating enzymes, lipases and peptidic neurotoxins. Each species of elapid snake may possess venom components that fit any or all of these classifications. The action of these venom components may result in neurotoxic (pre‐synaptic and post‐synaptic), haemotoxic (red‐cell destruction and coagulation disturbance), cardiovascular, myotoxic and secondary nephrotoxic effects. Marked variability may occur in venom composition between and within snake species, resulting in varying toxicity between species and also potentially unreliable clinical syndromes following envenomation. The existence of certain components consistently within the venom of each snake species allows the broad definition of basic pathological processes and clinicopathological changes resulting from snake species‐specific envenomation and these are discussed. Diagnosis of snake envenomation is unreliable if based on clinical signs alone and the use of these signs in conjunction with history, physical examination and laboratory investigation, including snake venom detection kits, is recommended. Treatment of systemic envenomation should be undertaken with initial effective first aid and subsequent administration of snake species‐specific antivenom.
Calcified tumours of the paranasal sinuses in three horses
Authors: Schaaf KL , Kannegieter NJ , Lovell DK
Published: October 2007

Three horses, a 10‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare, a 9‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding and a 6‐year‐old Arab gelding, with calcified tumours of the paranasal sinuses, are described. All horses presented with purulent nasal discharges and facial distortion. Exophthalmos, blepharospasm and ocular discharge were also a feature in individual horses. A presumptive diagnosis of a calcified tumour was made on the basis of clinical signs and radiographic and endoscopic findings. The tumours ranged from 15 to 25 cm in diameter. A large frontonasal bone flap was used to expose the tumours, which were cleaved into several pieces with an osteotome and removed. Histological examination of the masses identified cementomas in two cases and an osteoma in the third. Long term follow up from 18 months to 5 years after surgery indicated that there was no recurrence. This case series demonstrates that, although calcified tumours of the paranasal sinuses are rare in horses, they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of purulent nasal discharge, facial swelling and ocular distortion, and are amenable to surgical treatment.
Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Haemonchus contortus infections in light bodyweight Merino lambs
Authors: McClure SJ , Emery DL
Published: October 2007

Objective   To show that low bodyweight is a predisposing cause of high Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Haemonchus contortus burdens and egg counts in Merino lambs.

Design   A comparison was made, among lambs of different bodyweights, on the effect on immunity of a primary or secondary viable infection with T colubriformis or H contortus larvae.

Procedure   Sixty‐one Merino lambs, 1 or 6 months of age, were penned indoors and given primary, or both primary and secondary, infection of T colubriformis or H contortus. Faecal egg counts, worm counts and parasite‐specific immunoglobulin concentrations were examined for their relationships with bodyweight.

Results   Bodyweight at the start of a primary infection was correlated with worm burden, worm fecundity and jejunal IgA antibody concentration. Merino lambs weighing less than 23 kg at the time of first exposure to T colubriformis or H contortus had impaired ability to develop protective mucosal immunity and to resist homologous challenge.

Conclusion   If the goal is to ensure that lambs develop immunity before weaning, then every endeavour should be made to achieve the combination of critical bodyweight and exposure to moderate levels of nematode infection as soon as possible.
Salmonella Typhimurium persistence in a Hunter Valley dairy herd
Authors: Vanselow BA , Hum S , Hornitzky MA , Eamens GJ , Quinn K
Published: October 2007

Objective  An epidemiological study was undertaken at a Hunter Valley dairy with persistent Salmonella Typhimurium infection. The aim of the study was to identify cattle currently or previously infected with Salmonella, possible sources of the organism, patterns of spread, and husbandry practices that could be improved.

Methodology  Faecal samples, feed, water and environmental samples were cultured for Salmonella and blood samples were tested for antibodies against Salmonella (Dublin and Typhimurium). A questionnaire was designed to identify possible risk factors associated with Salmonella excretion.

Results  S Typhimurium was apparently introduced from an old to a new dairy through manure spread as fertiliser. Salmonella apparently persisted in the effluent pond, and the following year clinical cases occurred after pasture, irrigated with water from the pond, was grazed by dry cows, and adult cattle became clinically ill with salmonellosis. The disease spread to other cows and calves. Poor design of calf pens assisted spread of Salmonella from sick to healthy calves. In addition, there was suspected transmission to the dairy farmer's 9‐month‐old daughter. Salmonellosis on a farm is a potential zoonotic risk to farm workers and their families. There is also the risk that cull cows may carry Salmonella to the abattoir and subsequently into the human food chain. Methods of waste management, and the design of calf pens, were identified as major risk factors that could be improved to minimise the spread of salmonellosis on this property.
Occurrence and risk factors of asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic sensitisation in rural and urban Mongolia
Authors: Viinanen Arja
Published: November 2007

Introduction:  The prevalence of atopic diseases varies widely throughout the world. The increase in the risk of these types of diseases has been associated with a western lifestyle. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of environment and lifestyle changes on the risk of atopy in Mongolia, a country in transition between nomadic and western lifestyles.

Objective:  To study the prevalence and risk factors of asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic sensitisation in Mongolia in areas with different levels of urbanisation: villages, rural towns and Ulaanbaatar city.

Materials and Methods:  In the screening study, questionnaire data were obtained from 9453 subjects aged 10–60 years. In the clinical study, a subsample of 869 subjects (participation rate 50.0%), enriched with symptomatic subjects, was examined. A detailed questionnaire‐based interview, clinical examination, skin‐prick tests, spirometry, and bronchodilation tests or methacholine challenge tests were carried out. Asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic sensitisation were defined by the clinical examination. The results were related to the population level using sampling weights. The prevalence rates were evaluated in the villages, rural towns and Ulaanbaatar city. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used for the investigation of risk factors.

Results:  The prevalence rate of current asthma was low, 1.1%–2.4%, depending on the study area. The prevalence rate of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis was high in relation to the prevalence rate of asthma, but low compared internationally, 9.3%–18.4%. The prevalence rate of allergic sensitisation was 13.6%–31.0%. The prevalence rates were lowest in the villages. A significant increase was seen in the prevalence rates of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and allergic sensitisation with increasing exposure to town environment in analyses of current place of residence and also in analyses considering relocation from rural to urban areas. Keeping herd animals did not explain the protective effect of living in a village, but exposure to both herd animals and to dung heating was associated with a reduced risk for allergic sensitisation and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Keeping animals was a risk factor for asthma in the city, but not in the rural areas.

Conclusions:  The prevalence rate of atopic disorders was low in rural Mongolia, but it increased with increasing urbanisation. Moving from a village to a town increased the risk of atopy, but the risk was highest among those living in a town since birth. An environment with exposure to dung heating and herd animals protected against atopy in rural Mongolia, which suggests the importance of exposure to environmental microbes for protection.