bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Commonly Used Assays for the Detection of Microalbuminuria
Authors: Busby Douglas E. , Bakris George L.
Published: May 2007

There are a variety of methods for assessing urinary albumin excretion, extending from the very low‐range microalbuminuria to higher ranges extending into macroalbuminuria or proteinuria. The recommendation for the initial screening of a new patient is to use a urine dipstick to assess for microalbuminuria. If positive, a spot urine for albumin:creatinine should be measured and reassessed annually. All patients with kidney disease, diabetes, or hypertension and metabolic syndrome should be screened for albuminuria. New methodologies using high‐performance liquid chromatography are much more sensitive and specific when compared with older methods of detection and may prove very useful for earlier identification of high‐risk patients. This is important since studies have shown that albuminuria levels below the microalbuminuria range, determined by conventional methodologies in uncomplicated essential hypertensive men, are associated with an adverse cardiovascular and metabolic risk profile. High performance liquid chromatography methodology, in contrast to older studies, detects all intact albumin and enables clinicians to assess disease severity and monitor therapeutic effectiveness with confidence in the accuracy of the microalbuminuria data reported to them.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption and Hypertension: Clinical Implications of Current Research
Authors: Miller Peter M. , Anton Raymond F. , Egan Brent M. , Basile Jan , Nguyen Shaun A.
Published: May 2007

Substantial evidence demonstrates that: 1) heavy alcohol consumption (three or more standard drinks per day) is associated with and predictive of hypertension; 2) reduction in alcohol consumption is associated with a significant dose‐dependent lowering of mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure; and 3) physician advice can reduce heavy drinking in hypertensive patients. These findings suggest that the routine evaluation of alcohol consumption in hypertensive patients is warranted. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test‐C (AUDTT‐C), a brief, three‐question screening test, is useful in this regard. Alcohol biomarkers can also play a role in detecting and monitoring heavy drinking in hypertensive patients whose self‐reports on the AUDTT‐C are suspect. Carbohydrate‐deficient transfer‐rin, a new alcohol biomarker with high specificity, can provide objective data for feedback and counseling. A routine search for excessive use of alcohol, along with brief interventions and monitoring, can have a major impact on reducing the prevalence of hypertension in the general population.
Microalbuminuria: Definition, Detection, and Clinical Significance
Authors: Toto Robert D.
Published: May 2007

Proteinuria is a sign of abnormal excretion of protein by the kidney but is a nonspecific term including any or all proteins excreted. In contrast, albuminuria specifically refers to an abnormal excretion rate of albumin. Microalbuminuria refers to an abnormally increased excretion rate of albumin in the urine in the range of 30–299 mg/g creatinine. It is a marker of endothelial dysfunction and increased risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality especially, but not exclusively, in high‐risk populations such as diabetics and hypertensives. Testing for microalbuminuria is now made easy by in‐office dipstick tests (semi‐quantitative) and widely available laboratory testing (quantitative). Physicians should screen all diabetics for albuminuria and strongly consider screening hypertensives to identify those at higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Appropriate intervention, including use of drugs that block the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system, may be appropriate in such cases as suggested by the American Diabetes Association and the Seventh Report of Joint National Committee on the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure.
Interview With Marvin Moser, MD
Authors: Black Henry R.
Published: May 2007

This month's Hypertension Icon is Dr. Marvin Moser, Editor in Chief of The Journal of Clinical Hypertension. It is not, however, for this reason that he is being honored. For more than 50 years Dr. Moser has been a distinguished leader in efforts to control hypertension and prevent cardiovascular disease. He was there at the beginning when the treatment of hypertension was primitive and when people still believed that treatment would not be beneficial. He has participated in research on almost every new antibypertensive agent as they became available. He was one of the first to recognize that lowering blood pressure would result in the reversal of left ventricular hypertrophy. In addition to being an outstanding clinician, researcher, and teacher, Dr. Moser has been one of the leaders in public education. In his role as Senior Medical Consultant to the National High Blood Pressure Education Program, as well as in many states and national societies, he has been an untiring advocate of more effective treatment of hypertensive vascular disease. Dr. Moser has written 11 books, including four for the general public on the topic of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The seventh edition of Clinical Management of Hypertension has just been published. He was a co‐editor of the Yale University School of Medicine Heart Book. He is the author of more than 450 scientific papers and has lectured extensively in the United States and abroad. Dr. Moser is a worthy addition to the list of icons that have been featured in The Journal.
Combination Therapy in the Management of Hypertension: Focus on Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Combined With Diuretics
Authors: Palatini Paolo
Published: May 2007

There is increasing evidence that combination therapy should be emphasized more than it is at present for the initial treatment of hypertensive patients. Recent guidelines acknowledge the value of combination therapy, although some treatment algorithms fail to echo this message. Observations from major clinical trials in the elderly, diabetics, stroke patients, and African Americans all indicate that combination therapy is necessary to control blood pressure in the majority of these patients. Several combination therapies such as an angiotensin II receptor blocker and a diuretic, an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor with a diuretic, a β blocker with a diuretic, or an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor with a calcium antagonist have been shown to be effective in patients who do not respond to monotherapy. The current review focuses on the newest such combination; an angiotensin II receptor blocker and a diuretic may have an added advantage of being well tolerated. Recent studies have shown that angiotensin II receptor blockers, given alone or combined with a diuretic, may prevent some cardiovascular outcomes independent of their blood pressure‐lowering efficacy.
Prescribing Patterns of Diuretics in Multi‐Drug Antihypertensive Regimens
Authors: Singh Hardeep , Johnson Michael L.
Published: May 2007

Recent literature suggests that most hypertensives will require two or more drugs to achieve target blood pressure. Our objective was to estimate the proportion of patients receiving diuretics, including thiazides, for blood pressure control among those receiving two or more drugs. We studied 25,052 hypertensives in a tertiary care Veterans Affairs facility and identified individuals taking any thiazide or loop diuretic among patients receiving two, three, four, or more drugs. Rates of any diuretic use were 50%, 73%, and 89%, and decreased to 39.0%, 59.0%, and 72.5% for thiazide use, respectively. Rates of thiazide use were statistically significantly higher among African Americans compared with the general study population, but did not differ significantly in the elderly. Though overall diuretic use seems to be increasing as compared with previous studies, there is room for improvement in the use of thiazides in multi‐drug hypertension regimens.
Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy
Authors: Desai Niraj , Pate l Milan R. , Prisant L. Michael , Thomas Dilip A.
Published: May 2007

Nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy is a common cause of sudden, painless loss of vision present commonly on awakening from sleep. It most commonly affects middle‐aged and elderly Caucasian men and women. Involvement of the opposite eye occurs within 3 years in less than 43% of patients. Hypertension, diabetes, and nocturnal hypotension are risk factors. A congenital small cup‐to‐disk ratio also predisposes to the optic nerve ischemia. There is no effective therapy to treat patients acutely or to prevent recurrence. After 6 months of careful follow‐up, 57.3% of patients will have no significant change or worsening of their vision in the involved eye.
Hypertensive Heart Disease
Authors: Vidt Donald G. , Prisant L. Michael
Published: May 2007

Hypertensive heart disease encompasses anatomical changes and altered physiology of heart muscle, coronary arteries, and great vessels. Left ventricular hypertrophy is not only a target organ response to increased afterload, but is also the most potent cardiovascular risk factor. Regression of hypertrophy reduces morbidity and mortality. Heart failure may be present in the absence of a reduction of myocardial contractility. Ischemic heart disease occurs in the absence of epicardial coronary disease. Left atrial size and atrial fibrillation are associated. Potentially lethal ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death are more common in hypertensive patients. The relationship of aortic root size to blood pressure is weaker than expected; however, the relationship to aortic dissection is stronger. Careful attention and treatment of left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and atrial fibrillation will improve survival.
Visit Frequency and Hypertension
Authors: Guthmann Richard , Davis Nancy , Brown Matthew , Elizondo Jose
Published: May 2007

The best return visit interval to achieve blood pressure control is currently unknown. This study investigates the relationship between return visit interval and percent change in blood pressure. We reviewed a cohort of hypertensive patient charts from two large, urban family practice offices. Four hundred twenty‐nine patients with 7910 intervals showed a mean return visit interval of 79.5 days. Blood pressure control occurred during 34.5% of office visits. Pearson's r correlation coefficients between return visit interval and percent change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure demonstrated a small but statistically significant correlation. Shorter return visit intervals were associated with better percent changes in blood pressure. The return visit interval may be a simple and useful tool to improve management of hypertension.
Interview With Alberto Zanchetti, MD
Authors: Moser Marvin
Published: May 2007

This month, The Journal of Clinical Hypertension features a hypertension icon from outside of the United States. Professor Alberto Zanchetti of Milan, Italy has been one of the most prominent researchers and teachers in the field of hypertension in Europe for the past 40 years. Those of us who have attended the European or International Society of Hypertension meetings have marveled at his energy, breadth of knowledge, and his ability to translate science into clinical practice. He has been in the forefront of new drug research for many years and has chaired or participated in almost all of the guideline committees in Europe that have set policy and established hypertension treatment recommendations. My own memories of Alberto conjure images of a man who truly had influence, not only in medicine, but in the outside world as well. Professor Zanchetti delayed a TWA flight from Milan to New York when I was late in arriving at the airport. He convinced La Scala to present an unscheduled opera for attendees at the European Society of Hypertension in Milan. That gives a picture of the man who gets things done. For these gracious acts, and for his enormous positive influence on generations of physicians not only in Europe, but also around the world, we salute him as one of the icons in hypertension.
Cardioprotection: The Role of β‐Blocker Therapy
Authors: Egan Brent M. , Basile Jan , Chilton Robert J. , Cohen Jerome D.
Published: May 2007

Randomized controlled clinical trials document that β blockers reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, particularly sudden death, in patients with hypertension, heart failure, and post‐myocardial infarction. The benefits of β blockers extend across the boundaries of age, gender, and ethnicity, and include diabetic patients with heart failure and/or previous myocardial infarction. Unfortunately, β blockers remain underutilized in many high‐risk patients who would likely benefit from their use. This paper reviews the protective role of β blockade in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events and examines some of the potential barriers to appropriate β blocker use in patients with compelling indications.
Cardiovascular Events in Hypertension Trials of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Elliott William J.
Published: May 2007

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors are widely‐prescribed drugs for hypertension and are supported by clinical trials in which they reduce cardiovascular events. In the high‐risk patients in the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation, the Perindopril Protection Against Recurrent Stroke Study, and European Trial of Reduction of Cardiac Events With Perindopril in Stable Coronary Artery Disease, ramipril and perindopril showed impressive benefits. One reason trandolapril did somewhat less well in the Prevention of Events With Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibition trial may be that its patients were very well treated with other effective modalities. In the Antihypertensive and Lipid Lowering to Prevent Heart Attack Trial, lisinopril‐treated patients had a slightly lower incidence of myocardial infarction, despite much poorer control of blood pressure, perhaps because a second‐line diuretic was prohibited by protocol. Although angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors can cause cough and angioedema (more common among blacks), angiotensin receptor blockers are currently more expensive and have fewer outcome trials to support their use.
Therapeutic Considerations in the African‐American Patient With Hypertension: Considerations With Calcium Channel Blocker Therapy
Authors: Flack John M. , Sica Domenic A.
Published: May 2007

African Americans have a higher prevalence, earlier onset, and more rapid progression of hypertensive end‐organ disease, as well as excessive hypertensive mortality compared with other racial/ethnic groups. Most differences in hypertension and pressure‐related complications between African Americans and whites appear to be quantitative and not qualitative. Improving the diagnosis, treatment, and control of hypertension in this highly vulnerable population is a major health care goal for the new millennium. In this regard the dietary pattern to be promoted for reduction of hypertension risk in African Americans is one of increased consumption of dairy products, fruit, and vegetables as well as a continued emphasis on decreased Na+ intake. When pharmacologic therapy is considered, multi‐drug approaches are generally required, with diuretics, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (or angiotensin receptor blockers), and calcium channel blocker therapy as oft‐selected components of most such treatment regimens.
Calcium Channel Blocker Class Heterogeneity: Select Aspects of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
Authors: Sica Domenic A.
Published: May 2007

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) comprise a heterogeneous group of compounds with unique structures and pharmacologic characteristics. These agents are employed in the treatment of hypertension, coronary ischemia, and/or supraventricular arrhythmias. CCBs are both substrates for, and in the instance of verapamil and diltiazem inhibitors of, cytochrome P450 3A4. In the case of verapamil and diltiazem, this inhibitory effect increases the likelihood of drug‐drug interactions with other compounds similarly metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4. Much of the debate with reference to a cardiovascular risk for CCBs has been quieted with the advent of sustained‐release delivery systems that offer a more gradual rate of drug delivery. The most common side effects with CCBs are vasodilatory in nature and include peripheral edema, flushing, and headache. Despite the potential for side effects with CCBs, their potent blood pressure‐lowering effect makes them a prerequisite for blood pressure control in many patients.
Prevention of Action Potentials During Extracellular Electrical Stimulation of Long Duration
Authors: ZHOU XIAOHONG , SMITH WILLIAM M. , IDEKER RAYMOND E.
Published: May 2007

Prevention of Action Potentials by Electrical Stimulation. Introduction: This study investigated if action potentials can be prevented by electrical field stimuli of long duration.

Methods and Results: The transmembrane potential was recorded by a double‐barrel micro‐electrode during field stimulation given across a papillary muscle from 10 guinea pigs. After 10 stimuli (S) with a 200‐msec S‐S interval, a 400‐msec square wave shock was given Just before or after the end of the effective refractory period following the 10th stimulus through electrodes 1 cm on either side of the papillary muscles. Another two stimuli (S' and S”) having the same 200‐msec S‐S interval were given during the shock pulse to test if the action potentials induced by these two stimuli could be prevented by the shock. The shock strength was increased until the shock field prevented the action potentials induced by the S' and S” stimuli. The resting membrane potential was −85.5 ± 2.9 mV. For shocks causing depolarization at the recording site, the field strength required to prevent S'‐ and S”‐induced action potentials was 1.5 ± 0.4 V/cm, which depolarized the transmembrane potential to −55.3 ± 8.9 mV and −58.1 ± 7.2 mV from the resting membrane potential at the time of the S' and S” stimuli, respectively. The strength of shocks causing hyperpolarization required to prevent S'‐ and S”‐induced action potentials was 5.0 ± 0.8 V/cm, which hyperpolarized the transmembrane potential to −105 ± 6.5 mV and −115.6 ± 6.9 mV from the resting membrane potential at the time of the S' and S” stimuli, respectively.

Conclusion: Both depolarization and hyperpolarization caused by an electrical field can prevent action potentials.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Oversensing During Periods of Rate‐Related Bundle Branch Block
Authors: COYNE ROBERT F. , MAN DAVID C. , SARTER BRIAN H. , SCHWARTZMAN DAVID , CALLANS DAVID J. , MARCHLINSKI FRANCIS E. , GOTTLIEB CHARLES D.
Published: May 2007

ICD Oversensing During Rate‐Related BBB. A patient with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and a dual chamber pacemaker experienced inappropriate ICD therapies only during periods of rate‐dependent right bundle branch block. Analysis of both stored and real‐time ICD electrograms was critical to correctly diagnosing the problem and offering a solution.
High‐Rate Atrial Pacing as an Innovative Bridging Therapy in a Neonate with Congenital Long QT Syndrome
Authors: TANEL RONN E. , TRIEDMAN JOHN K. , WALSH EDWARD P. , EPSTEIN MICHAEL R. , De LUCCA JANET M. , MAYER JOHN E. , FISHBERGBR STEVEN B. , SAUL J. PHILIP
Published: May 2007

Neonatal Long QT Syndrome. Introduction: The neonatal presentation of the long QT syndrome is rare, although it is frequently accompanied by life‐threatening arrhythmias. Infants may not survive childhood despite traditional management with beta‐adrenergic blockade and pacing.

Methods and Results: This case describes a newborn with a long QT interval, T wave alternans, intermittent 2:1 AV block, ventricular arrhythmias, and a family history of sudden death. After failing medical therapy, conventional VVI and DDD pacing were unsuccessful due to prolonged ventricular refractoriness and proarrhythmia. At 2 months of life, the child was treated with high‐rate (180 ppm) atrial pacing to produce intentional 2:1 AV block. Following an episode of possible syncope at 16 months of age, an automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) was added. Finally, as recently reported, acutely induced hyperkalemia led to both a marked decrease in QTc and functional improvement in repolarization (consistent 1:1 AV conduction at rates to 180 beats/min). Spironolactone and dietary potassium were added and have produced the same effects chronically.

Conclusions: High‐rate atrial pacing with 2:1 AV block is presented as a novel and “bridging” therapy for neonatal long QT syndrome and 2:1 AV block with ventricular arrhythmias. Definitive therapy with ICD implantation was then possible when patient size was substantially increased. The electrophysiologic response to intentional elevation of the serum potassium suggests a genetic defect in an inward potassium channel and demonstrates a possible therapy of long QT syndrome in some future patients.
Testing an Intervention to Promote Children's Adherence to Asthma Self‐Management
Authors: Burkhart Patricia V. , Rayens Mary Kay , Oakley Marsha G. , Abshire Demetrius A. , Zhang Mei
Published: May 2007

Purpose: To test the hypothesis that compared with the control group, 7 through 11‐year‐old children with persistent asthma who received asthma education plus a contingency management behavioral protocol would show higher adherence to peak expiratory flow (PEF) monitoring for asthma self‐management and would report fewer asthma episodes.

Design and Methods: A randomized, controlled trial was conducted with 77 children with persistent asthma in a southeastern U.S. state. Both the intervention and control groups received instruction on PEF monitoring. Only the intervention group received asthma education plus contingency management, based on cognitive social learning theory, including self‐monitoring, a contingency contract, tailoring, cueing, and reinforcement. At‐home adherence to daily PEF monitoring during the 16‐week study was assessed with the AccuTrax Personal Diary Spirometer, a computerized hand‐held meter. Adherence was measured as a percentage of prescribed daily PEF uses at Weeks 4 (baseline), 8 (postintervention), and 16 (maintenance).

Results: At the end of the baseline period, the groups did not differ in adherence to daily PEF monitoring nor at Week 8. At Week 16, the intervention group's adherence for daily electronically monitored PEF was higher than that of the control group. Children in either group who were ≥ 80% adherent to at least once‐daily PEF monitoring during the last week of the maintenance period (weeks 8 to 16) were less likely to have an asthma episode during this period compared with those who were less adherent.

Conclusions: The intervention to teach children to adhere to the recommended regimen for managing their asthma at home was effective.
Necrotizing Fasciitis: Manifestations, Microbiology and Connection with Black Tar Heroin*
Authors: Dunbar Nancy M. , Harruff Richard C.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  A 10‐year review of records of the King County Medical Examiner’s Office found 87 deaths due to necrotizing fasciitis and related necrotizing soft tissue infections. In 64 of these cases there were sufficient details to provide an analysis of the manifestations, microbiology, and source of infection. One half (32) of the cases were due to injection of black tar heroin, the nearly exclusive form of heroin in the Northwest United States. Of those due to black tar injection, 24 were clostridial infections with various species represented, eight of which were Clostridium sordellii. Of the 32 cases not associated with drug injection, streptococcal species predominated, with Streptococcus pyogenes isolated in 14 cases. Only three of 32 cases not associated with injection drug use were clostridial infections. These differences were statistically significant. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from 14 cases; two were methicillin‐resistant strains. Overall, 28 of the 64 cases were polymicrobial infections, 15 due to black tar injection and 13 not associated with drug injection. This study supports the conclusion that necrotizing fasciitis due to black tar heroin injection is predominantly a clostridial disease, and in this way differs significantly from necrotizing fasciitis due to other causes.
Quality Assurance Testing of an Explosives Trace Analysis Laboratory––Further Improvements
Authors: Crowson Andrew , Doyle Sean P. , Todd Clifford C. , Watson Stuart , Zolnhofer Nicola
Published: May 2007

Abstract: The Forensic Explosives Laboratory (FEL) operates within the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) which is part of the UK Government Ministry of Defence (MOD). The FEL provides support and advice to the Home Office and UK police forces on matters relating to the criminal misuse of explosives. During 1989 the FEL established a weekly quality assurance testing regime in its explosives trace analysis laboratory. The purpose of the regime is to prevent the accumulation of explosives traces within the laboratory at levels that could, if other precautions failed, result in the contamination of samples and controls. Designated areas within the laboratory are swabbed using cotton wool swabs moistened with ethanol water mixture, in equal amounts. The swabs are then extracted, cleaned up and analyzed using Gas Chromatographs with Thermal Energy Analyzer detectors. This paper follows on from a previous published paper describing the regime and summarizing subsequent results from approximately 6 years of tests. Lessons learned and improvements made over the period are also discussed. Monitoring samples taken from surfaces within the trace laboratories and trace vehicle examination bay have, with few exceptions, revealed only low levels of contamination, predominantly of RDX. Analysis of the control swabs, processed alongside the monitoring swabs, has demonstrated that in this environment the risk of forensic sample contamination, assuming all the relevant anti‐contamination procedures have been followed, is so small that it is considered to be negligible. The monitoring regime has also been valuable in assessing the process of continuous improvement, allowing sources of contamination transfer into the trace areas to be identified and eliminated
The Use of Geographic Information Systems as a Forensic Tool to Investigate Sources of Marine Mammal Entanglement in Fisheries*
Authors: Burdett Leslie G. , Adams Jeffrey D. , McFee Wayne E.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Commercial fisheries represent a significant anthropogenic threat to marine mammal survival. Causes of marine mammal mortality are commonly determined by detailed necropsies of stranded carcasses. Gross evidence of entanglement in a fishery might include gear attached to the body, internal indications of asphyxiation and trauma, or gear markings on the epidermis. As gear is often fishery‐specific, wound patterns on the epidermis that are created by entanglements in fishing gear may serve to identify possible sources of mortality. For this study, tools within the Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (ESRI) ArcMap GIS software were used to create maps that outline impressions that fishing gear can leave on the epidermis of entangled marine mammals. These maps can subsequently be used to identify possible sources of fishery entanglement for the many marine mammals that wash ashore without gear attached to their carcass. Entanglement wound patterns can be visually compared with fishing gear characteristics; however, differences in scale and image quality can introduce subjectivity that might hinder source identification. The technique described herein provides an objective way to outline the unique characteristics of fishing gear and their associated wounds on entangled marine mammals. Additionally, spatial relationships are preserved as the maps are adjusted to varying scales. Whereas the initial protocol required time‐consuming digitization of the outline and visual determination of the pattern interface, this new, semiautomated technique saves analyst effort and minimizes error.
Stable isotope methods in biological and ecological studies of arthropods
Authors: Hood‐Nowotny Rebecca , Knols Bart G. J.
Published: May 2007

This is an eclectic review and analysis of contemporary and promising stable isotope methodologies to study the biology and ecology of arthropods. It is augmented with literature from other disciplines, indicative of the potential for knowledge transfer. It is demonstrated that stable isotopes can be used to understand fundamental processes in the biology and ecology of arthropods, which range from nutrition and resource allocation to dispersal, food‐web structure, predation, etc. It is concluded that falling costs and reduced complexity of isotope analysis, besides the emergence of new analytical methods, are likely to improve access to isotope technology for arthropod studies still further. Stable isotopes pose no environmental threat and do not change the chemistry or biology of the target organism or system. These therefore represent ideal tracers for field and ecophysiological studies, thereby avoiding reductionist experimentation and encouraging more holistic approaches. Considering (i) the ease with which insects and other arthropods can be marked, (ii) minimal impact of the label on their behaviour, physiology, and ecology, and (iii) environmental safety, we advocate more widespread application of stable isotope technology in arthropod studies and present a variety of potential uses.
Breast Metastasis around Dental Implants: A Case Report
Authors: Dib Luciano Lauria , Soares Ana Laura , Sandoval Renata Lazzari , Nannmark Ulf
Published: May 2007

Background  Metastases to the oral cavity and to the jaws are rare; hence, the clinical manifestations of the oral metastasis lesion could frequently be simulating general pathologic entities, making the diagnosis a challenging process to the dental team. Local factors, such as trauma, have been observed to facilitate the growth of blood‐borne tumors. To this end, surgical procedures such as fixture placement might cause cancer cells to spread.

Purpose  Careful clinical examination is a valuable help in diagnosing oral lesions, which can improve the quality of life of patients and reduce the risks of oral complications.

Materials and Methods  A female patient was referred to the clinic with symptoms of irritation, swelling, and pain associated with implants in the mandible and the maxilla.

Results  Clinical examination, x‐ray, and histopathology revealed that the patients suffered from a metastatic lesion, primary tumor being an adenocarcinoma of the breast diagnosed at the same time.

Conclusion  Optimal clinical examination in conjunction with radiography and histopathology is a necessity in order to discover malignant lesions in time. Routine dental check‐ups must comprise more thorough soft‐tissue examination.
High Age at the Time of Implant Installation is Correlated with Increased Loss of Osseointegrated Implants in the Temporal Bone
Authors: Drinias Vassilis , Granström Gösta , Tjellström Anders
Published: May 2007

Background  The implant failure rate in temporal bone has been reported to be about 5 to 10% over a 10‐year period. A number of our elderly patients have shown increased failure rates over a long time period, which is the reason for the present study.

Purpose  The aim of the present study was to find out if age is correlated with implant failure and to measure blood flow in implant sites.

Materials and Methods  The long‐time survival of 131 osseointegrated implants installed in the temporal bones of 81 patients was correlated with the age of the patient at the time of installation. The blood flow in 37 fixture installation sites in 22 patients was recorded by means of laser Doppler flowmetry.

Results  The mean implant failure rate in the study group was 9.8% after a mean follow‐up time of 7.6 years. There was a significant increase of implant failure in patients above 60 years of age. There was further a trend that implants used for the bone‐anchored hearing aid were lost to a higher proportion than implants used for bone‐anchored episthesis. There was also a trend that female patients lost fewer implants than males. Blood flow in the temporal bone correlated well with the age of the patient in that the highest values were recorded from the youngest patients.

Conclusions  Increasing age affects failures of osseointegrated implants in the temporal bone. Blood flow is higher in the child’s temporal bone, a factor that can be of importance to understand why age influences implant survival.
Determination of the Minimum Population Size of Pumas (Puma concolor) Through Fecal DNA Analysis in Two Protected Cerrado Areas in the Brazilian Southeast
Authors: Miotto Renata Alonso , Rodrigues Fernando Pacheco , Ciocheti Giordano , Galetti Pedro Manoel
Published: May 2007

Pumas (Puma concolor) are an endangered species due to habitat loss and the ever‐growing conflict with expanding human populations. We used genetic analysis of feces, a noninvasive study method, to determine the presence of pumas and their estimated minimum population in two protected areas in the northeast of São Paulo State, Brazil: Jataí Ecological Station and Vassununga State Park. We were able to identify the species that originally deposited the feces by means of amplification of a portion of the mitochondrial cytochromebgene and comparison of this fragment with reference sequences from pumas and other carnivores present in the region. We used a panel containing four microsatellitelocito individualize each of the samples collected. Among the 20 fecal samples, we identified 10 as clearly belonging to pumas and two as belonging to ocelots (Leopardus pardalis), a species sympatric withP. concolor. By plotting the feces sampling points against a satellite image, we determined the presence of at least nine puma individuals in the region, three in the Jataí Ecological Station, four in the Vassununga State Park, and two in their surroundings. The identity probability was 0.0001 and the occurrence of allelic dropout was 10.6 percent. The presence of pumas, the estimate of their minimum population size, as well as their distribution, constitute an important tool for the implementation of management and conservation programs in the areas studied and their surroundings.
OXIDATIVE STABILITY, COOKING YIELD AND TEXTURE OF PORK TREATED WITH A LOW‐SODIUM SALT
Authors: WETTASINGHE M. , SHAHIDI F.
Published: May 2007

The effect of a low‐sodium salt mixture (LSSM) on the characteristics of cooked ground pork was investigated. LSSM, similar to NaCl, exhibited a minor but definite prooxidative effect in the system examined. The cooking yield of meat containing 1% LSSM was 69.8% compared to 74.3% for 1% NaCl. The cooking yields of samples with 2 and 3% LSSM were similar to those containing 2 and 3% of NaCl, respectively (p > 0.05). Maximum shear force values of samples containing 1% LSSM and 1% NaCl were similar. However, the maximum shear force values of meats treated with LSSM at 2 and 3% LSSM (19.1 and 24.8 kg) were lower (P < 0.05) than those containing 2 and 3% NaCl (21.9 and 27.0 kg). Addition of LSSM or NaCl to ground pork also enhanced the cooking yield and firmness over those containing no salt. The color characteristics of cooked pork remained generally unaffected by LSSM.
THE SHEAR FORCE OF VERY‐RAPIDLY CHILLED LAMB 1: THE EFFECT OF CARCASS SPLITTING
Authors: McGEEHIN B. , REDMOND G.A. , SHERIDAN J.J. , BUTLER F.
Published: May 2007

The effect on tenderness of splitting lamb carcasses longitudinally under very‐rapid chilling conditions was investigated. Whole (unsplit) and split carcasses were chilled in very‐rapid chilling conditions (−20C for 3.5 h followed by chilling at 4C for 20.5 h) and conventional chilling conditions (4C for 24 h), giving a total of four treatments. Loin (M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum) shear force was measured at f and S days postmortem by Warner‐Bratiler shear force measurement. By 5 days postmortem, split carcasses were not different (P>0.05) in shear force to unsplit carcasses when conventionally chilled but differences (P<0.05) were present between unsplit and split carcasses when very‐rapidly chilled (57.7 N vs 41.5 N, respectively).
STUDIES OF COW BEEF TENDERNESS ENHANCEMENT THROUGH SUPERSONIC‐HYDRODYNAMIC SHOCK WAVE TREATMENT
Authors: MARRIOTT N.G. , WANG H. , SOLOMON M.B. , MOODY W.G.
Published: May 2007

Longissimus samples were removed from each side of 17 U.S. Commercial and Utility carcasses (Experiments A, B, and C). The samples were randomly assigned to supersonic‐hydrodynamic shock wave treatment (SSW) or no treatment (C). Total energy and maximum peak force data were obtained for all treatments. Sensory evaluation (for Experiments A and C) included subjective ratings for myofibrillar tenderness. juiciness, connective tissue amount, and overall tenderness. Also, thaw loss, cooking loss, and collagen solubility were determined. The effects of supersonic‐hydrodynamic shock treatment on the reduction of shear force and sensory values for all studies were minimal. Thaw loss (Experiment B only), cooking loss, CIE L* a* b* values, collagen solubility and standard plate counts were unaffected (P>0.05) by treatment. Further research with less tender beef should indicate if tenderness improvement can be attained through a closer accoustical match with water and improved techniques for administering shock wave treatment.
HALOTHANE GENOTYPE, CHILLING AND LOCATION WITHIN MUSCLE: EFFECTS ON PORK QUALITY
Authors: OHENE‐ADJEI S. , ELLIS M. , McKEITH F. K. , BREWER M. S.
Published: May 2007

Intact sides were subjected to accelerated chill (AC: −30C for 2.5 h, 4C for 20–22 h) or conventional chill (CC: 4C for 22–24 h). Color, drip loss, and pH were evaluated 24 h postmonem at three sites (inner, mid, and outer) in the Semimembranosus (SM) and Biceps femoris (BF) with the inner site closest to the femur. Zle Longissimus thoracis (LT) and the Longissimus lumborum (LL) were also evaluated. Accelerated chill improved color and drip loss of the Longissimus muscle. Accelerated chill had no fleet on the quality measurements of the ham, although site differences occurred. The fleets of genotype on color, drip loss, and pH in the loin and ham muscles were not consistent in the muscle groups studied. Compared to CC, AC has beneficial fleets on fresh pork quality of the Longissimus muscle, but not the ham muscles.
CONSUMER ACCEPTABILITY OF PROCESSED OSTRICH MEAT PRODUCTS
Authors: McKENNA D. R. , MORRIS C. A. , KEETON J. T. , MILLER R. K. , HALE D. S. , HARRIS S. D. , SAVELL J. W.
Published: May 2007

Two value‐added ostrich meat product prototypes were prepared and evaluated by a consumer panel (n = 132) against similar products manufactured entirely from pork. Ostrich “ham” and a control pork ham product were prepared by a traditional ham cure, and Polish sausage products were formulated with either all‐pork or a 67% ostrich/33 % pork blend and processed with a commercial spice blend. Ostrich “ham“ tended to be rated lower (P = 0.0537) in salt intensity, but had higher flavor intensity ratings. Consumers gave pork ham more favorable ratings for overall acceptability (P< 0.01) and flavor acceptability (P< 0.05). For Polish sausage products, overall acceptability, flavor acceptability, flavor intensity, salt intensity, texture and tenderness were not different (P > 0.05) between all‐pork and ostrich/pork varieties. Results indicate that value‐added ostrich meat products were more acceptable when they were more finely ground, spiced, and combined with pork in a sausage product than when they were prepared as a “ham“ product.
KINETICS OF PIGMENT DEGRADATION IN SLICED COOKED HAM
Authors: MATTOS ELISANGELA C. , NOREÑA CACIANO P.Z. , BRANDELLI ADRIANO
Published: May 2007

Sliced cooked ham was vacuum packaged and held in the dark at −15C. 10C, and 30C, and at 10C in the light, for up to 96 h. At 24 h intervals, samples were analyzed for pigment concentration by spectrophotometry. A decrease in pigment concentration was observed over time under all conditions. Pigment degradation increased at higher temperatures and with light exposure. Kinetic parameters were determined, indicating that pigment degradation follows first order kinetics and the temperature dependence of these reactions indicated an Arrhenius relationship. The activation energy was 3.3 kcal/mol. The visible spectra for the extracted pigments in cooked ham showed the typical pattern of nitrosylmyoglobin. Pigments extracted from ham displayed in the light had spectra with similar absorption maxima to those from those stored in the dark.
EFFECT OF IRRADIATION ON CONSUMER PERCEPTION AND DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF GROUND BEEF PATTIES
Authors: LORENZEN C. L. , HEYMANN H.
Published: May 2007

This study evaluated nonirradiated and irradiated beef patties of good and poor color using descriptive analysis and consumer panels. A trained descriptive analysis panel (n = 10) evaluated samples on a 10‐cm unstructured line scale anchored on both ends. Consumers (n = 94) rated patties on a nine‐point hedonic scale where 1 = dislike extremely and 9 = like extremely. Irradiated patties were less gray and redder (P< 0.05) in external appearance than controls. Irradiated patties with poor color had a drier (P< 0.05) surface appearance than controls and irradiated patties with good color. Irradiated patties with good color had a mister mouthfeel (P< 0.05) than irradiated patties with poor color. Irradiated beef patties with good color had higher liking of juiciness ratings than controls (P< 0.05). however, no difference was detected between good and poor color irradiated patties (P > 0.05). There were no treatment differences for overall liking of the beef patties (P > 0.05).
LIGHT SCATTERING, FIBER OPTIC‐ AND CELL‐BASED SENSORS FOR SENSITIVE DETECTION OF FOODBORNE PATHOGENS
Authors: BHUNIA ARUN K. , BANADA PADMAPRIYA , BANERJEE PRATIK , VALADEZ ANGELA , HIRLEMAN E. DANIEL
Published: May 2007

Rapid and sensitive detection tools are essential in pathogen control and prevention in food and in food processing facilities. The conventional culture methods provide reliable results but the analysis time, labor and the cost associated with these methods often pose a great inconvenience to industrial applications. Biosensor‐based detection methods are considered to be promising emerging technologies which are capable of fulfilling the current needs in providing results rapidly with improved sensitivity and specificity. In this review we described three cutting‐edge optical sensor technologies: light scattering, fiber optic‐ and cell‐based sensors, which are proven to be useful in pathogen detection from food samples.
Measurement of LNAPL Flow Using Single‐Well Tracer Dilution Techniques
Authors: Sale Tom , Taylor Geoffrey Ryan , Iltis Gabriel , Lyverse Mark
Published: May 2007

This paper describes the use of single‐well tracer dilution techniques to resolve the rate of light nonaqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) flow through wells and the adjacent geologic formation. Laboratory studies are presented in which a fluorescing tracer is added to LNAPL in wells. An in‐well mixer keeps the tracer well mixed in the LNAPL. Tracer concentrations in LNAPL are measured through time using a fiber optic cable and a spectrometer. Results indicate that the rate of tracer depletion is proportional to the rate of LNAPL flow through the well and the adjacent formation. Tracer dilution methods are demonstrated for vertically averaged LNAPL Darcy velocities of 0.00048 to 0.11 m/d and LNAPL thicknesses of 9 to 24 cm. Over the range of conditions studied, results agree closely with steady‐state LNAPL flow rates imposed by pumping. A key parameter for estimating LNAPL flow rates in the formation is the flow convergence factor α. Measured convergence factors for 0.030‐inch wire wrap, 0.030‐inch‐slotted polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and 0.010‐inch‐slotted PVC are 1.7, 0.91, and 0.79, respectively. In addition, methods for using tracer dilution data to determine formation transmissivity to LNAPL are presented. Results suggest that single‐well tracer dilution techniques are a viable approach for measuring in situ LNAPL flow and formation transmissivity to LNAPL.
Complexation of Aqueous Elements by DOC in a Clay Aquitard
Authors: Reszat Thorsten N. , Hendry M. Jim
Published: May 2007

The extent of partitioning of several elements (Cu, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sr, U, and Zn) on dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was investigated in pore water samples collected from a clay‐rich aquitard. High DOC concentrations in the aquitard, ranging from 21 to 143 mg C/L, and natural aqueous metal concentrations higher than in most ground water environments facilitated complexation studies at this site. Analyses were conducted using on‐line coupling of asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation with ultraviolet, total organic carbon, and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry detectors. Of the elements investigated, only U and Zn were complexed with all DOC samples, ranging from 2.2 to 60 μg U/g DOC (0.4% to 3% of the total U in the pore water) and 0.04 to 0.5 μg Zn/g DOC (0.1% to 0.9% of the total Zn in the pore water), respectively. Laboratory experiments conducted over a range in pH (1.3 to 9.7) and geochemical modeling supported the measured complexation of U and Zn on the DOC. The in situ association constant, Kd, for U decreased with depth from 76 mL/g C for pore water samples at 2.2 m below ground (BG) to 24 mL/g C at 9.7 m BG. The decrease was attributed to a decrease in aromaticity of the DOC with depth. Zn Kdconstants ranged from 2 to 12 mL/g C and exhibited no trend with depth. Results of the current study suggest minor masses of U and Zn (less than or equal to 4% of total) complex with this DOC under in situ pH conditions. Our data suggest that competitive complexation by other ligands may limit the importance of DOC‐facilitated transport of the elements studied in water of similar chemical composition.
Using Hydraulic Head Measurements in Variable‐Density Ground Water Flow Analyses
Authors: Post Vincent , Kooi Henk , Simmons Craig
Published: May 2007

The use of hydraulic head measurements in ground water of variable density is considerably more complicated than for the case of constant‐density ground water. A theoretical framework for dealing with these complications does exist in the current literature but suffers from a lack of awareness among many hydrogeologists. When corrections for density variations are ignored or not properly taken into account, misinterpretation of both ground water flow direction and magnitude may result. This paper summarizes the existing theoretical framework and provides practical guidelines for the interpretation of head measurements in variable‐density ground water systems. It will be argued that, provided that the proper corrections are taken into account, fresh water heads can be used to analyze both horizontal and vertical flow components. To avoid potential confusion, it is recommended that the use of the so‐called environmental water head, which was initially introduced to facilitate the analysis of vertical ground water flow, be abandoned in favor of properly computed fresh water head analyses. The presented methodology provides a framework for determining quantitatively when variable‐density effects on ground water flow need to be taken into account or can be justifiably neglected. Therefore, we recommend that it should become part of all hydrogeologic analyses in which density effects are suspected to play a role.