bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QT Interval and the Risk of Myocardial Infarction and All‐Cause Death: A Cohort Study
Authors: LINDEKLEIV HAAKON , WILSGAARD TOM , MACFARLANE PETER W. , LØCHEN MAJA‐LISA
Published: April 2012

QT Interval and the Risk of Myocardial Infarction and All‐Cause Death. Introduction: The relationship between QT interval and cardiovascular disease is controversial.

Methods: All male residents aged 20–61 years and female residents aged 20–56 years were invited to the Tromsø Study in 1986–1987. A total of 15,558 participants free of heart disease were prospectively followed over 20 years for myocardial infarction and death. QT interval at baseline was measured on lead I of the electrocardiogram. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) per standard deviation change in QT interval were calculated using a Cox regression model.

Results: We identified 756 cases of myocardial infarction and 1,183 all‐cause deaths. Prolonged QT interval was present in 792 (5%) participants. QT interval was not associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction (HR: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.84–1.07, after adjustment for potential confounders). Heart‐rate‐corrected QT interval was a significant predictor for all‐cause death in men (HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.03–1.29), but not in women (HR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.91–1.18), after adjustment for potential confounders.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that the previously observed relationship between QT interval and increased risk of cardiovascular death is not mediated by increased risk of myocardial infarction. The clinical utility of the QT interval to identify individuals at high risk for coronary events is limited in a general population without prior heart disease. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 846‐852, August 2012)
Summary of the Tenth Thousand Confinement Records of the Frontier Nursing Service
Authors:   THE METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
Published: April 2012

This report was prepared in the office of Mr. Edward A. Lew, Actuary and Statistician, by Mrs. Alice Beckwith. The statistical tables of the full report have been omitted from this summary.
The Nurse and Pseudocyesis
Authors: Fox Rhea L.
Published: April 2012

This first prize paper of the Margaret Thomas Writing Contest was written by Rhea Fox while she was a student in maternity nursing at the University of Rochester, Department of Nursing, Rochester, N. Y.
Family Life Education in a Family Planning Clinic
Authors: Okrent Shirley
Published: April 2012

Shirley Okrent, the Second Prize winner of the Margaret Thomas Writing Contest, is Coordinator, nurse‐midwifery activities in the Family Planning Clinic at the State University‐Kings County Medical Center, Brooklyn, N. Y.
A Nuptially Transmitted Ichthyosporean Symbiont of Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Lord Jeffrey C. , Hartzer Kris L. , Kambhampati Srinivas
Published: April 2012

The yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, harbors a symbiont that has spores with a thick, laminated wall and infects the fat body and ventral nerve chord of adult and larval beetles. In adult males, there is heavy infection of the epithelial cells of the testes and between testes lobes with occasional penetration of the lobes. Spores are enveloped in the spermatophores when they are formed at the time of mating and transferred to the female's bursa copulatrix. Infection has not been found in the ovaries. The sequence of the nuclear small subunit rDNA indicates that the symbiont is a member of the Ichthyosporea, a class of protists near the animal–fungi divergence.
A Minimally Invasive Technique for the Detection and Analysis of Pulmonary Fat Embolism: A Feasibility Study*
Authors: Filograna Laura , Bolliger Stephan A. , Kneubuehl Beat , Jackowski Christian , Hatch Gary M. , Thali Michael J.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  We investigated the feasibility of postmortem percutaneous needle biopsy (PNB) for obtaining pulmonary samples adequate for the study of pulmonary fat embolism (PFE). Samples of both lungs were obtained from 26 cadavers via two different methods: (i) PNB and (ii) the double‐edged knife technique, the gold standard at our institute. After water storage and Sudan III staining, six forensic pathologists independently examined all samples for the presence and severity of PFE. The results were compared and analyzed in each case regarding the vitality of the PFE and its relationship to the cause of death. The results showed that PFE was almost identically diagnosed and graded on the samples obtained via both methods. The discrepancies between the two techniques did not affect the diagnoses of vitality or cause of death related to PFE. This study demonstrates the feasibility of the PNB sampling method for the diagnosis and interpretation of PFE in the postmortem setting.
Temporal Analysis of the Cocaine Metabolite Benzoylecgonine in Wastewater to Estimate Community Drug Use*
Authors: Kinyua Juliet , Anderson Todd A.
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Indirect estimation methods of cocaine consumption may not reflect the real extent of cocaine use. Another approach is sewage epidemiology. This direct approach is based on analysis of a stable cocaine metabolite, benzoylecgonine (BE), in wastewater. Influent to the Lubbock (Texas) Water Reclamation Plant was sampled twice a week to assess weekly variations in estimates of cocaine consumption over a 5‐month period. BE was extracted from influent wastewater samples using solid phase extraction and analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Measured concentrations of BE were converted to cocaine equivalents; the estimated average daily consumption of cocaine during the study period was 1152 ± 147 g. Based on BE concentrations and sewage epidemiology, higher cocaine consumption was observed on weekends compared to weekdays (p < 0.0003). This method was effective in monitoring BE in wastewater and could be used to complement survey data in estimating cocaine use at a local level.
Comparative Analysis of the Chemical Profiles of 3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Based on Comprehensive Two‐Dimensional Gas Chromatography–Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry (GC × GC‐TOFMS)*
Authors: Schäffer Marion , Gröger Thomas , Pütz Michael , Dieckmann Susanne , Zimmermann Ralf
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The chemical profiling of illicit drugs is an important analytical tool to support the work of investigating and law enforcement authorities. In our work, comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography–time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC‐TOFMS) combined with nontargeted, pixel‐based data analysis was adapted for the chemical profiling of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). The validity and benefit of this approach was evaluated by analyzing a well‐investigated set of MDMA samples. Samples were prepared according to a harmonized extraction protocol to ensure the comparability of the chemical signatures. The nontargeted approach comprises preprocessing followed by analysis of variances as a fast filter algorithm for selection of a variable subset followed by partial least squares discriminant analysis for reduction to promising marker compounds for discrimination of the samples according to their chemical profile. Forty‐seven potential marker compounds were determined, covering most of the target impurities known from the harmonized one‐dimensional profiling as well as other compounds not previously elucidated.
A Y‐Chromosomal Haplotype with Two Short Tandem Repeat Mutations*
Authors: Ma Yan , Kuang Jin‐Zhi , Zhu Wei , Yang Zhi , Wang Yu‐Jian , Nie Tong‐Gang , Li Chen , Hou Yi‐Ping
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  The male‐specific Y‐chromosomal short tandem repeat (STR) is a useful tool in forensic casework. The Y haplotype comprised of 16 loci, which is amplified simultaneously by AmpFlSTR® YfilerTM PCR kit and provides strong exculpatory evidence in individual identification. We reported a rare Y‐STR profile with a null allele at the DYS448 locus and an off‐ladder allele at the DYS456 locus, when genotyping material from a vaginal swab in an alleged rape case. Sequence analysis revealed that the DYS448 null allele was a true type of null allele because of a total deletion of 11 upstream repeats and 9 bp of the N42 region, and there were numerous primer binding site mutations as well. The amplicon of the DYS456 locus was a small 92‐bp fragment that was off‐ladder, and sequencing analysis showed that there were only 10 repeats (AGAT)10. This Y chromosome haplotype that was comprised of two variations provided helpful evidence for personal identification.
Thoughts on Inactivity and an Ethnography of “Nothing": Comparing Meanings of “Inactivity” in Romanian and American Mental Health Care
Authors: Friedman Jack R.
Published: April 2012

Drawing from research in clinical mental health settings in the United States and Romania, this article considers “inactivity” as an object of study. While the “recovery movement” in the United States has attempted to combat inactivity among people with mental illnesses, many clinicians remain ambivalent, seeing inactivity both as problematic and as therapeutic. In Romanian psychiatric hospitals, inactivity is viewed as both the treatment for and the ultimate fate of people with mental illnesses. While anthropologists often study people who could be characterized as “inactive,” anthropologists have rarely addressed the experience of inactivity, emphasizing instead “productivity.” This Foucauldian impulse, I argue, obfuscates the lived realities of inactivity among many people.
A Brazilian Anthropologist Studying Money in America
Authors: Oliven Ruben G.
Published: April 2012

This article analyzes meanings of money in America. It is based on an ethnography carried out in the United States by a Brazilian anthropologist who studied financial institutions, health insurance, service clubs, compulsive spenders, restaurants, shops, scholarly, and non‐scholarly articles and books on personal finance, proverbs, expressions, etc. He is currently contrasting Brazilian and North American popular music of the first half of the 20th century. The author compares attitudes toward money in the United States with those existing in Brazil and argues that money in North American society, which can be seen as a total social fact, is considered less polluting than in Brazil, where it is represented as something potentially dirty.
Estimating direct resistance in willows against a major insect pest, Phratora vulgatissima, by comparing life history traits
Authors: Lehrman Anna , Torp Mikaela , Stenberg Johan A. , Julkunen‐Tiitto Riitta , Björkman Christer
Published: April 2012

Many Salix species (Salicaceae) have a high energy quotum and efficient nitrogen use, resulting in a high and stable biomass production, making these plants suitable as bioenergy crops. However, Salix coppices are sensitive to herbivory by chrysomelid beetles, such as Phratora vulgatissima L. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), and to maintain high biomass yields over several years, durable plant resistance is necessary. We have developed a reliable and efficient bioassay that can be used as a tool for detection of resistance against P. vulgatissima in Salix. Screening of six clones of one susceptible (Salix viminalis L.) and one resistant (Salix dasyclados Wimm.) willow species, by the response of several life history traits of larval and adult P. vulgatissima, identified egg production as the most reliable trait for resistance. We show that a 2‐week bioassay of oviposition rate is sufficient for a trustworthy estimation of both total egg production and survival of adult leaf beetles. In addition, to elucidate the variation in resistance among the studied clones, leaf concentrations of various phenolic compounds were compared with the key life history traits of the beetles. Phenolic compounds, especially salicylates, have previously been reported as the main factor controlling Salix resistance against P. vulgatissima. Indeed we found higher levels of salicylates in the resistant clones and larval performance was negatively correlated to the concentration of salicylates in the leaves. In addition, we found indications of negative effects of a luteolin derivative and quercetin‐3‐glucoside on leaf beetle performance, but further studies are needed to elucidate the specific roles that the different phenolic compounds play in plant resistance.
Diamondback moth oviposition: effects of host plant and herbivory
Authors: Silva Rehan , Furlong Michael J.
Published: April 2012

The oviposition behaviour of Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) on Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. Pekinensis, cv. Wombok), canola (Brassica napus L. cv. Thunder TT), and cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. Capitata, cv. sugarloaf) (Brassicaceae) was studied in the laboratory. In no‐choice experiments moths laid most eggs on the stems and lower three leaves of cabbage plants, the lower three leaves of canola plants, but on the upper three leaves of Chinese cabbage plants. The effects of conspecific herbivore damage to foliage could be replicated by mechanical damage. When foliage was damaged, injured cabbage and canola plants were preferred for oviposition over intact conspecifics, whereas injured Chinese cabbage plants were less preferred than intact conspecifics. However, when root tissue was damaged, intact cabbage and canola plants were preferred over injured conspecifics, whereas moths did not discriminate between root‐damaged and intact Chinese cabbage plants. Injury to upper leaves significantly affected the intra‐plant distribution of eggs. In cabbage and canola plants, injury to leaf 6 significantly increased the number of eggs laid on this leaf, resulting in a significant decrease in the number of eggs laid on the lower foliage/stem of plants, whereas in Chinese cabbage plants it significantly decreased the number of eggs laid on leaf 6. Following oviposition on intact plants, neonate larvae established the vast majority of feeding sites on leaves 5–8 in all three host plants, indicating that larvae moved a considerable distance from preferred oviposition sites in cabbage and canola plants. The growth rate of neonates fed on leaf‐6 tissue was significantly greater than that of those fed on leaf‐1 tissue; >90% of larvae completed development when fed exclusively on leaf‐6 tissue but no larvae completed development when fed exclusively on leaf‐1 tissue. The study demonstrates the complex and unpredictable interactions between P. xylostella and its host plants and provides a basis from which we can begin to understand observed distributions of the pest in Brassica crops.
The ‘sparkle’ in fake eyes – the protective effect of mimic eyespots in lepidoptera
Authors: Blut C. , Wilbrandt J. , Fels D. , Girgel E.I. , Lunau K.
Published: April 2012

Many species of lepidoptera bear conspicuous circular patterns on their wings, known as eyespots, that are hypothesised to protect their bearers against predatory birds. In this study, we focus on a small but ubiquitous feature occurring naturally in lepidopteran eyespots, namely the so‐called ‘sparkle’. The ‘pupil’ in an eyespot is often highlighted by a ‘sparkle’, which is hypothesised to mimic a natural corneal total light reflection evident as a highlight, twinkle, or sparkle in the vertebrate eye. In a study exploring the presence of such sparkles, we found that 53% of lepidopteran eyespots exceeding 1 mm in diameter have a central, pinpoint‐like ‘sparkle’, 12% have a marginal, crescent‐shaped ‘sparkle’, 13% have a semi‐circular ‘sparkle’, and 22% have an intermediate semi‐circular to crescent‐shaped ‘sparkle’. In the lepidopterans’ natural resting position, the marginal ‘sparkles’ are positioned in the upper part of the eyespots’‘pupil’ and thus may create the illusion of a spherical eyeball. The ‘sparkles’ in lepidopteran eyespots do not only appear white to humans, but also reflect ultraviolet light. White and UV‐reflecting ‘sparkles’ also appear ‘white’ for UV‐sensitive viewers such as birds, and thus may effectively mimic the natural highlight in vertebrate eyes as an area of total light reflection. In field experiments using lepidopteran dummies baited with a mealworm, we show that the ‘sparkle’ is one of several components of eyespots eliciting a deterrent effect and that eyespots with a ‘sparkle’ in a natural position have a stronger deterrent effect than those with a ‘sparkle’ in an unnatural position. These findings support the eye mimicry hypothesis that better vertebrate eye mimicry improves the deterrent effect of eyespots.
Deletion of PLCB1 gene in schizophrenia‐affected patients
Authors: Vasco Vincenza Rita Lo , Cardinale Giuseppina , Polonia Patrizia
Published: April 2012

A prevalence of 1% in the general population and approximately 50% concordance rate in monozygotic twins was reported for schizophrenia, suggesting that genetic predisposition affecting neurodevelopmental processes might combine with environmental risk factors. A multitude of pathways seems to be involved in the aetiology and/or pathogenesis of schizophrenia, including dopaminergic, serotoninergic, muscarinic and glutamatergic signalling. The phosphoinositide signal transduction system and related phosphoinositide‐specific phospholipase C (PI‐PLC) enzymes seem to represent a point of convergence in these networking pathways during the development of selected brain regions. The existence of a susceptibility locus on the short arm of chromosome 20 moved us to analyse PLCB1, the gene codifying for PI‐PLC β1 enzyme, which maps on 20p12. By using interphase fluorescent in situ hybridization methodology, we found deletions of PLCB1 in orbito‐frontal cortex samples of schizophrenia‐affected patients.
High‐risk clonal evolution in chronic B‐lymphocytic leukemia: single‐center interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization study and review of the literature
Authors: Janssens Ann , Van Roy Nadine , Poppe Bruce , Noens Lucien , Philippé Jan , Speleman Frank , Offner Fritz
Published: April 2012

Background

We studied the relation of clonal evolution (CE) in Chronic B‐lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with prognostic factors and the correlation between CE and disease progression and overall survival.

Methods

With interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis, we looked for 11q22 deletion, 17p13 deletion, and trisomy 12. A second FISH was performed approximately 3 yr after the first one or earlier in case of disease progression.

Results

High‐risk CE, defined as the acquisition of a new 11q or 17p deletion, was observed in 11.5% (11/95) of patients with CLL. The relative risk of CE was not influenced by CD38 and ZAP‐70 expression, mutational status of the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene (IgVH), lymphocyte doubling time, and genomic aberrations observed with the first FISH or by treatment given between the sequential genetic analyses. Patients with high‐risk CE had a significant shorter survival time (59 months vs. not reached, P = 0.0367). Multivariate analysis identified CE as the strongest independent prognostic marker regarding survival [hazard ratio (HR) 4.1, P = 0.01]. Clonal fluctuation, defined as disappearance of the 11q or 17p deletion, was seen in 11.5% (11/95) of patients. Most patients lost the high‐risk clone after treatment despite persistence of a malignant clone. The disappearance of these genomic aberrations did not ameliorate outcome. A few patients have lost spontaneously a small 17p clone.

Conclusion

This study confirms that CE and clonal fluctuation are common phenomena in CLL. CE was not limited to patients with pre‐existing adverse prognostic factors. Acquiring high‐risk CE was identified as the strongest independent prognostic factor for impaired survival.
Hierarchical decisions on teeth vs. implants in the periodontitis‐susceptible patient: the modern dilemma
Authors: Donos Nikolaos , Laurell Lars , Mardas Nikolaos
Published: April 2012

It is estimated that advanced periodontitis typically affects about 10% of most adult populations studied. These individuals can be considered highly susceptible to periodontitis and often present difficulties for clinicians in therapeutic decision making, especially when dental implants are involved. Poor plaque control and smoking are well established risk factors for periodontitis, as well as for peri‐implant disease. Long‐term follow‐up studies have clearly demonstrated that treatment of periodontal disease, even if advanced, can be successful in arresting disease progression and preventing (or at least significantly delaying) tooth loss. With the increasing development of implant dentistry, traditional well documented and evidence‐based therapies to treat periodontal diseases may sometimes not be used to their full potential. Instead, there appears to be an increasing tendency to extract periodontally compromised teeth and replace them with implants, as if implants can solve the problem. However, peri‐implant diseases are prevalent, affecting between 28% and 56% of people with implants, and (at the implant level) 12–43% of implants. A history of periodontal disease, smoking and poor oral hygiene are all risk factors for developing peri‐implantitis. Unlike periodontitis, there are currently no predictable means for treating peri‐implantitis, although resective surgery seems to be the most effective technique. Consequently, if implant treatment is considered in patients who are susceptible to periodontitis, it should be preceded by appropriate and adequate periodontal treatment or re‐treatment to control the condition, and should be followed by a stringent supportive maintenance program to prevent the development of peri‐implant disease. The decision whether implant treatment should be performed should be based on an assessment of the patient’s risk profileat the subject level, as well as at the site level.
Osteoporosis and osteopenia: implications for periodontal and implant therapy
Authors: Otomo‐Corgel Joan
Published: April 2012

How does low bone mineral density alter treatment decisions? Osteoporosis and osteopenia are major health care issues that may impact on periodontal and implant therapy. Because of the prevalence of osteoporosis, understanding its etiology and the current treatment regimens for patients with low bone mineral density is essential for dental professionals. Millions of patients are now taking medications for the treatment of osteoporosis, and periodontists should be aware of the many medication options that are prescribed. The most frequently prescribed drugs are the bisphosphonates. It is important to be aware that bisphosphonates are not all the same, and patient responses to treatment may vary depending on which bisphosphonates they are taking. Due to recent concerns about bisphosphonate‐induced osteonecrosis of the jaw, this paper provides guidance to help the clinician regarding decision‐making about preventive and interventional dental treatment when their patient has been prescribed a bisphosphonate. An understanding of current bisphosphonates, their uses, their structural differences and their intended actions helps to improve clinical decision‐making. Current knowledge regarding the effects of osteoporosis/osteopenia on periodontal diseases and alveolar bone loss is inconclusive. It is certainly clear that bisphosphonates are not indicated as an adjunctive treatment as part of periodontal therapy because of the risk of osteonecrosis. Regarding implant placement, there are no convincing data that dental implant placement is contraindicated in the osteoporotic patient. However, patients should understand the small risk of compromised bone healing following implant placement if the patient has been taking bisphosphonates. Due to the risks of osteonecrosis, dental clinicians should work closely with their medical colleagues prior to the physician prescribing oral bisphosphonates. Ideally, optimal periodontal and dental health should be established before the patient commences bisphosphonate therapy.
Examiner alignment and assessment in clinical periodontal research
Authors: Hefti Arthur F. , Preshaw Philip M.
Published: April 2012

Periodontal research typically relies on clinical examiners to assess variables such as gingival inflammation, plaque scores or probing depths as a means of determining treatment outcomes or for performing group comparisons. The quality of the gathered information is dependent, to a large extent, on the skills of the examiner(s) and on the validity of the assessment methods that are used. Attempts have been made to increase the objectivity of periodontal assessments, for example by introducing scoring systems for gingival inflammation, but within these systems there is often considerable scope for variation when interpreting the scoring criteria, leading to subjectivity when assigning scores to individual periodontal sites. This has led to an awareness of the importance of examiner alignment and assessment to improve the data quality by standardizing techniques and improving examiner reliability. Examiner alignment and assessment is used in preference to the term ‘examiner calibration’ because calibration implies comparison with an accurate or ‘gold’ standard, which is not available in periodontal research. In this review, we consider the historical perspective that led to the development of clinical scoring systems for periodontal research using gingival inflammation as an example. A clinical protocol for undertaking examiner alignment and assessment is presented, and we review the common sources of error and bias that can lead to difficulties in aligning examiners, and consider how they can be eliminated. It is particularly important that subjects who are recruited to the examiner alignment and assessment study present with a comparable level of disease to the subjects who will ultimately be recruited to the planned clinical trial. Another challenge in examiner alignment and assessment is applying appropriate statistical tests to assess the outcome of the alignment exercise. In the periodontal literature, the statistic kappa is frequently used to confirm an adequate degree of examiner agreement, but kappa is bound to significant restrictions when applied for this purpose. Through the use of case studies, we present different approaches to data analysis from calibration studies, focusing on continuous variables (such as probing depths and attachment levels) or ordinal data (such as gingival or plaque indices), to enable a correct, although frequently conservative, interpretation of data generated during examiner alignment and assessment studies.
Myosin Ia is Required for CFTR Brush Border Membrane Trafficking and Ion Transport in the Mouse Small Intestine
Authors: Kravtsov Dmitri V. , Caputo Christina , Collaco Anne , Hoekstra Nadia , Egan Marie E. , Mooseker Mark S. , Ameen Nadia A.
Published: April 2012

In enterocytes of the small intestine, endocytic trafficking of CFTR channels from the brush border membrane (BBM) to the subapical endosomes requires the minus‐end motor, myosin VI (Myo6). The subapical localization of Myo6 is dependent on myosin Ia (Myo1a) the major plus‐end motor associated with the BBM, suggestive of functional synergy between these two motors. In villus enterocytes of the Myo1a KO mouse small intestine, CFTR accumulated in syntaxin‐3 positive subapical endosomes, redistributed to the basolateral domain and was absent from the BBM. In colon, where villi are absent and Myo1a expression is low, CFTR exhibited normal localization to the BBM in the Myo1a KO similar to WT. cAMP‐stimulated CFTR anion transport in the small intestine was reduced by 58% in the KO, while anion transport in the colon was comparable to WT. Co‐immunoprecipitation confirmed the association of CFTR with Myo1a. These data indicate that Myo1a is an important regulator of CFTR traffic and anion transport in the BBM of villus enterocytes and suggest that Myo1a may power apical CFTR movement into the BBM from subapical endosomes. Alternatively, it may anchor CFTR channels in the BBM of villus enterocytes as was proposed for Myo1a's role in BBM localization of sucrase‐isomaltase.
Prevalence of gingival overgrowth among elderly patients under amlodipine therapy at a large Indian teaching hospital
Authors: Karnik Rohit , Bhat K. Mahalinga , Subraya Bhat G.
Published: April 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00603.x
 
Prevalence of gingival overgrowth among elderly patients under amlodipine therapy at a large Indian teaching hospital

Objectives:  To determine the prevalence of amlodipine‐induced gingival overgrowth (GO) among elderly subjects attending an Indian teaching hospital and find any association with demographic factors, drug variables, oral hygiene status and gingival inflammation.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional pilot study included 157 dentate patients aged 60 years or more, taking Amlodipine for at least 3 months. Data were collected from past medical records and oral examination. Clinical assessment of GO was correlated with patient’s age, gender, drug dosage (2.5, 5 or 10 mg/day), duration of drug therapy (3–4, 4–6, 6–12, 12–24 and >24 months) and also with subjects’ plaque index and gingival index scores.

Results:  Eight patients (5.09%) had GO. No statistically significant relation was observed between age (p = 0.79), gender (p = 0.56), drug dosage (p = 0.25) and duration of drug intake (p = 0.62) and prevalence of GO. GO prevalence related highly significantly (p < 0.001) with plaque and gingival index scores.

Conclusions:  Prevalence of amlodipine‐associated GO in the sample of elderly Indian patients was noted higher than that previously reported. Plaque and gingival inflammation were highly correlated with this condition, while demographic characteristics and drug dosage did not relate significantly.
RAPID IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS BY ATTENUATED TOTAL REFLECTANCE FOURIER TRANSFORM INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: XIE YANPING , XU SHUJUN , HU YU , CHEN WANYI , HE YIPING , SHI XIANMING
Published: April 2012

Staphylococcus aureus is an important bacterium that can cause serious infections in human such as pneumonia and bacteremia. Rapid detection of this pathogen is crucial in food industries and clinical laboratories to control S. aureus food poisoning and human infections. In this study, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy equipped with a germanium attenuated total reflection accessory was used as a novel approach to identify S. aureus. A total of 17 reference strains belonging to 4 different species and 84 clinical isolates of Staphylococcus spp. were analyzed. After the cultivation of the strains, spectral collection and data preprocessing, the S. aureus isolates were identified by a two‐step discrimination procedure. An internal validation and the related external validation were performed to demonstrate the discriminatory power and the quality of the discrimination models before the discrimination analysis. In the first step, 38 S. aureus isolates were correctly classified and the others were misidentified as Staphylococcus haemolyticus by hierarchical clustering analysis model using the first derivatives from the spectral range between 1,800 and 1,050/cm. In the second step, several classification/discrimination algorithms of soft‐independent modeling of class analogy, principal component regression and partial least squares regression (PLSR) were applied to build models for differentiating S. aureus and S. haemolyticus. The results showed that 57 (98.3%) strains and 4 (100%) strains of S. aureus and S. haemolyticus could be correctly identified by PLSR.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a potential method for rapid discrimination, classification and identification of intact microbial cells. In this study, FTIR spectroscopy equipped with a germanium attenuated total reflection accessory, using hierarchical clustering analysis–partial least squares regression discrimination analysis, is a powerful means for routine identification of Staphylococcus aureus.
BIOSAFETY CHALLENGES FOR THE FOOD MICROBIOLOGY LABORATORY
Authors: MONTVILLE THOMAS J.
Published: April 2012

Microbiology research and teaching must be conducted in a fashion that assures the health and well‐being of the practitioner and the safety of the community. This paper presents some biosafety issues and discusses how the interaction of the pathogen being studied, the person conducting the research and the practices being used can be manipulated to assure safety. The characterization of pathogens into risk groups, how these relate to biosafety levels, and the personal practices and laboratory design criteria associated with each biosafety level are explained. The importance of preventing or containing aerosols, limiting opportunities for cross‐contamination, and taking a flexible multicomponent approach to biosafety is emphasized.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Safety is an important, but often overlooked issue in food microbiology laboratories. This paper raises awareness, puts forth some approaches for dealing with biohazards and hopefully advances the safe practice of food microbiology.
STUDY ON RELEASE MECHANISM OF INHIBITORY COMPONENTS FROM CINNAMON AND CLOVE POWDERS
Authors: YANG JINCHU , KUANG XUAN , LI BIN , ZHOU BIN , LI JING , CUI BING , MA MEIHU
Published: April 2012

In this study, cinnamon powder and clove powder were successfully prepared using a high‐frequency oscillatory‐type ball mill at 20 ± 1C. The release behavior of inhibitory components (ICs) from powders into anhydrous alcohol was investigated by UV spectrometer. Also the release kinetics was evaluated by fitting the experimental data to standard release equations (zero‐order, first‐order, Higuchi and Ritger–Peppas equation). The results revealed that the release rate of the ICs was much faster from the clove powder than that from the cinnamon powder, which was probably related to the source of plant material, powder particle size, the structure and morphology, the aggregations of ultrafine powders, volatilization, oxidization and total loaded content. Their release profiles were found to be biphasic with a burst release followed by a gradual release phase, and the best fit was found with Ritger–Peppas model for the cinnamon powder and Higuchi model for the clove powder. It proved that the two powders could extend the shelf life of chilled meat because of their release behaviors.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Cinnamon and clove were traditional food spices and were commonly used in the food industry because of their special aroma as well as their antibacterial and antifungal activities. On the other hand, controlled‐release systems using biodegradable polymers were widely used in numerous applications, especially food preservation. However, before carrying out this study, it was unknown whether ultrafine powders of ball‐milled cinnamon and clove can be directly used as controlled delivery systems for food preservation. In the present work, the release behaviors, kinetics and mechanism of ICs from powders were studied, and the antimicrobial activities of powders were determined. This study showed that ultrafine powders of ball‐milled cinnamon and clove would be a promising bacteriostasis and anticorrosion vehicle for food industry because of their controlled‐release behavior.
The Effects of Strategic Supplier Selection on Buyer Competitive Performance in Matched Domains: Does Supplier Integration Mediate the Relationships?
Authors: Koufteros Xenophon , Vickery Shawnee K. , Dröge Cornelia
Published: April 2012

This research examines whether the strategic selection of suppliers based on supplier new product development capability, supplier quality capability and supplier cost capability directly and/or indirectly enhances the buyer's competitive performance capabilities in the matched domains of buyer product innovation, buyer quality and buyer competitive pricing, respectively. The resource‐based view of the firm is used to frame the direct effects of strategic supplier selection as the capability of a buyer to select a supplier with resources and expertise in a specified domain should enhance the buyer's performance capability in the “matched” domain (but not necessarily buyer performance in “unmatched” domains). Two supplier integration mechanisms — supplier partnerships and supplier development — are modeled as potential mediators, implying indirect paths. The research hypotheses focus on both direct and indirect effects for each of the matched domains, but do not posit relationships across different domains. For example, supplier selection for new product development capability should impact buyer product innovation (matched domains), but should not necessarily impact buyer quality capability (unmatched domains). The direct effects of strategic supplier selection on buyer performance are supported in each matched domain; however, the indirect effects through supplier integration are not significant for the matched domains. The results identify strategic supplier selection as a promising source of competitive advantage in the resource‐based view sense. In contrast, supplier development and supplier partnership do not provide performance benefits in a given domain above those arising from strategic supplier selection in the same domain; i.e., it is the nature of the resources selected that is key to competitive advantage.
A Demand‐side Perspective on Supply Chain Management
Authors: Priem Richard L. , Swink Morgan
Published: April 2012

When and how can supply chain management (SCM) be a source of long‐term competitive advantage for the firm? We revisit and update arguments recently advanced by Hunt and Davis (2008) in this journal concerning which theoretical perspectives — the resource‐based view of strategy or resource‐advantage theory — may provide the most useful “lenses” for SCM scholars interested in addressing these critical questions. In this brief article we suggest that SCM research addressing questions of competitive advantage can be enhanced by a more rigorous definition of resources and by a more system‐wide view of competition. We also recommend that the nascent demand‐side perspective on strategic management can serve to provide new insights and a more complete understanding of SCM's role in competition. While the existing SCM literature offers a few examples of this perspective, in our opinion this remains an unfulfilled opportunity for SCM scholars.
Grounding Supply Chain Management in Resource‐Advantage Theory: In Defense of a Resource‐Based View of the Firm
Authors: Hunt Shelby D. , Davis Donna F.
Published: April 2012

This article addresses the issues regarding the usefulness of the resource‐advantage (R‐A) theory of competition for supply chain management research that are raised in commentaries by Barney (2012) and Priem and Swink (2012). In response, we expand the discussion initiated in Hunt and Davis (2008) that compares R‐A theory with the resource‐based view, draw similarities between R‐A theory and the demand‐side perspective, and further explicate the foundations of R‐A theory. In doing so this article provides a “way forward” for both SCM researchers and RBV theorists.
Development of Predictive Models for the Growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 on Cabbage in Korea
Authors: Ding Tian , Wang Jun , Forghani Fereidoun , Ha Sang‐Do , Chung Myung‐Sub , Bahk Gyung‐Jin , Hwang In‐Gyun , Abdallah Elgorban , Oh Deog‐Hwan
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Cabbage is the main material of coleslaw, a popular side dish in Korea as well as many other countries. In the present study, the combined effect of temperature (15, 25, and 35 °C) and relative humidity (60%, 70%, and 80%) on the growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 on cabbage was investigated. The polynomial models for growth rate (GR), lag time (LT), and maximum population density (MPD) estimated from the Baranyi model were conducted with high coefficients of determination (R2> 0.98). Subsequently, performance and reliability of the models were assessed through external validation, employing three indices as bias factor (Bf), accuracy factor (Af), and the standard error of prediction expressed in percentage (%SEP). The Bf, Af, and %SEP values of the predictive models for GR were 1.008, 1.127 and 18.70%, while 1.033, 1.187 and 20.79% for LT and 0.960, 1.044 and 5.22% for MPD, respectively. The results demonstrated that the developed secondary models showed a good agreement between the observed and predicted values. Therefore, the established models can be suitable to estimate and control E. coli O157:H7 growth risk on cabbage at some steps from farm to table in Korea as a valuable tool.

Practical Application:  The combined effect of temperature and relative humidity on the growth or survival of Escherichia coli O157:H7 on cabbage was investigated. The validated predictive models are qualified to provide good predictions for E. coli O157:H7 growth, which can help to conduct the quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) of E. coli O157:H7 on cabbage from farm to table in Korea.
Analysis of Lunasin in Commercial and Pilot Plant Produced Soybean Products and an Improved Method of Lunasin Purification
Authors: Cavazos Ariel , Morales Elsy , Dia Vermont P. , De Mejia Elvira Gonzalez
Published: April 2012

Abstract:  Lunasin is a bioactive peptide present in soybean. It is important to quantify lunasin concentration in soy products to assess its potential impact as functional food. The objectives of this study were to analyze lunasin in commercial soymilk products and implement an efficient method to isolate and purify it from defatted soybean flour. Defatted soybean flour was suspended in water, and the extract was loaded in a pre‐equilibrated diethylaminoethyl column and bound proteins eluted using a step gradient of salt. Most lunasin was eluted from the column at 0.2 to 0.4M NaCl as quantified by immunoassays and purified using ultracentrifugation and ultrafiltration techniques. Lunasin purity was ≥90% and a standard curve was used to quantify its concentration in soymilk products. Concentration of lunasin in soy products, including organic soymilk, soy protein shakes, and soy infant formulas, ranged from 1.78 to 9.26 mg lunasin/100 g product. The concentration per serving ranged from 1.59 ± 0.01 to 22.23 ± 0.74 mg lunasin with variability depending on brand and size per serving. Steam‐ground‐cooked soy had the highest concentration of lunasin (22.23 ± 0.74 mg/serving), similar to some commercial products. Ground‐cooked soymilk contained roughly half the concentration of lunasin (14.39 ± 1.4 mg/serving). Soy infant formulas that used soy protein isolate revealed lower concentrations of lunasin (P < 0.05). It was concluded that all soymilk products analyzed contained lunasin, and a more efficient method to isolate lunasin with higher purity was developed.

Practical Application:  Soy foods have shown to play a role in cardiovascular health prevention. The quantification of lunasin in commercially available soy products can add to the already existing health claim for soy foods and encourage consumers to include soy products in their diets.
Retrospective study of 103 presumed cases of tick (Ixodes holocyclus) envenomation in the horse
Authors: Ruppin M , Sullivan S , Condon F , Perkins N , Lee L , Jeffcott LB , Dart AJ
Published: April 2012

Objective  Review 103 cases of presumed tick envenomation in horses.

Design  Retrospective study.

Method  Variables, including date of presentation, age, breed, weight, presence of ticks, gait and respiration scores, duration of recumbency, treatment, outcome and complications were recorded. A series of univariable screening tests were performed and used in a multivariable logistic regression model.

Results  There were a total of 103 cases affecting 10 breeds, aged between 1 week and 18 years of age. Horses >6 months old and weighing >100 kg had a higher odds of death than those <6 months old and <100 kg. Cases were seen from North Queensland to the central coast of New South Wales and were more likely to present in the warmer months. There was no association between the number of ticks found on an animal and death. Horses with a higher respiratory score had higher odds of dying, but there was no association between gait score and survival. Horses recumbent >120 h after presentation had higher odds of dying. Complications were reported in 35% of horses. The odds ratio for survival was higher for horses receiving >0.5 mL/kg of tick antiserum. Overall, 74% of horses survived. Multivariable modelling was limited by the small sample size.

Conclusion  In general, tick envenomation in horses follows the geographic distribution of Ixodes holocyclus. Tick antiserum administered at >0.5 mL/kg increases the odds of survival. It would appear that the complications associated with managing a recumbent horse increase the odds of death.
Quarter‐milking‐, quarter‐, udder‐ and lactation‐level risk factors and indicators for clinical mastitis during lactation in pasture‐fed dairy cows managed in an automatic milking system
Authors: Hammer JF , Morton JM , Kerrisk KL
Published: April 2012

Objectives To identify risk factors and indicators at quarter‐milking and other levels for clinical mastitis during lactation in pasture‐fed cows managed in an automatic milking system.

Design A retrospective nested case–control study using data collected over a 31‐month period. A total of 803,948 quarter‐milkings from 249 cows were available for analysis, of which 245 were selected as clinical mastitis quarter‐milking cases and 2450 unaffected quarter‐milkings were selected as controls. Most of the diagnoses of clinical mastitis had been made after clinical assessments of quarters following automated alerts by the milking system. Potential risk factors and indicators were assessed using univariable and multivariable multilevel logistic models.

Results Quarters that are milked infrequently and have low yield, fast peak milk flow rates, blood in the milk and/or elevated milk conductivity are at increased risk of clinical mastitis. Quarters were also at increased risk between days 10 and 29 of lactation, and during higher parity lactations. Milk fat and protein concentrations and the fat : protein ratio were not significantly associated with the development of clinical mastitis. Neither quarter position (fore or rear) nor side (left or right) was associated with clinical mastitis occurrence. Quarters that had been clinically affected more than 30 days previous in the current lactation were not at increased risk of redeveloping clinical mastitis.

Conclusions Under the study conditions, the risk of clinical mastitis increased for quarter‐milkings in quarters that were milked less frequently in the previous 7 days, were low‐yielding, had fast peak milk flow rates and had more milkings in which blood was detected in milk and/or the milk conductivity was elevated. Risk was also increased in days 10–29 of lactation and in higher parity lactations.
In this issue – May 2012
Authors: Jackson AE
Published: April 2012

Breech‐strike in Merinos in south‐eastern Australia · Risk factors for clinical mastitis in dairy cows · Tick (Ixodes holocyclus) envenomation in horses · Attitudes to and use of analgesia by Queensland veterinarians · Treatment of anoestrus in bitches · Risk of arboviruses following waterbird movement