bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PACKAGING AND STORAGE EFFECTS ON THE FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF FROZEN VENISON
Authors: FAROUK M.M. , FREKE C.
Published: July 2008

The functional stability of vacuum‐ and nonvacuum‐packaged venison semimembranosus muscle was determined after 0, 1, 2, 3, 6 and 9 months of frozen storage. Vacuum‐packaged samples had higher emulsion stability, chroma, shear force values, cooked batter torsion stress, strain and tensile stretch, lower malondialdehyde (MDA) and lower hue angle compared with nonvacuum‐packaged samples. The two packaging methods did not vary in the other functional attributes of venison measured. Total protein solubility, cooked batter torsion strain and tensile strength increased in the first month of storage and then decreased thereafter. Sarcoplasmic protein solubility increased (P < 0.05) in the first 6 months and declined in the ninth month. Reactive sulphydryl contents (P < 0.1) and moisture loss in raw (P < 0.001) and in cooked venison (P < 0.01) increased with storage time and peaked at 3 months and declined thereafter. MDA increased during the first 2 months, then declined and increased again at 9 months (P < 0.001). The results of this study suggest that most of the changes in frozen venison manufacturing functionality took place within the first month of storage and this peak functionality was extended to 3 months when venison was vacuum‐packaged.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The following are some of the practical applications of this research: (1) Frozen venison has better functional properties for manufacturing purposes compared with fresh unfrozen venison immediately postrigor. (2) This functionality tends to peak at 1 month of frozen storage, with longer storage up to 9 months having little or no further effect on the functionality. (3) The peak functionality can be extended to 3 months through vacuum packaging.
“UZICE BEEF PRSHUTA”: INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT SALTING PROCESSES ON SENSORY PROPERTIES
Authors: TOMIĆ NIKOLA , TOMAŠEVIĆ IGOR , RADOVANOVIĆ RADOMIR , RAJKOVIĆ ANDREJA
Published: July 2008

The aim of this study was to determine salt penetration dynamics during the muscle‐salting process with and without vacuum tumbling, as well as to investigate the influence of these two different salting treatments on sensory properties of “Uzice Beef Prshuta,” a traditional Serbian dry‐cured meat product. Twenty‐four samples of two different muscles obtained from beef carcasses were analyzed: 12 M. semitendinosus (MS) and 12 M. longissimus lumborum et thoracis (ML). After salting, six MS and six ML were immediately left in the salting chamber, while the other six MS and six ML were first submitted to vacuum tumbling process and then left in the same salting room separately from the previous batch. Determination of chloride content was conducted in three layers (layer A = 1 cm in depth from external surface; layer B = 1 cm in depth from layer A; and layer C = central part) of the shaped muscles during whole salting process. Sensory evaluation of ripened product “Uzice Beef Prshuta” was carried out in regard to five selected sensory characteristics using a 5‐level scale. Each of the four experimental groups of muscles had a similar trend of salt penetration during the salting period. A salt content of about 2.5% necessary for preservation was achieved on the third day for layer C of vacuum‐tumbled ML, on the fifth day for vacuum‐tumbled MS and nonvacuum‐tumbled ML, and on the seventh day for nonvacuum‐tumbled MS. Analysis of variance showed no significant differences (P < 0.01) in total sensory quality between the four groups of samples. It is justified to include vacuum tumbling into the traditional way of “Uzice Beef Prshuta” production.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The traditional production process of dry‐cured meat products is very time consuming. A shortening of the process can increase turnover and profit. The results presented in this manuscript have demonstrated that application of mechanical treatments and vacuum during the salting period in manufacturing of “Uzice Beef Prshuta” can accelerate the process without a significant impact on sensory profile of the product.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF HORSE MEAT FROM THE LONGISSIMUS LUMBORUM AND SEMITENDINOSUS MUSCLE
Authors: LITWIŃCZUK A. , FLOREK M. , SKAŁECKI P. , LITWIŃCZUK Z.
Published: July 2008

The objective of this study was to compare the chemical composition and physicochemical quality of the meat of mature slaughter horses (73 mares and 58 geldings) sampled from the longissimus dorsi (longissimus lumborum section [LL]) and semitendinosus (ST) muscles.

The LL muscle was characterized by significantly lower values of electrical conductivity, temperature and shear force; however, it showed a significantly higher water‐holding capacity. Meat from the LL muscle showed a significantly higher intramuscular fat (IMF) content, and as a result, higher calories, but contained less water and protein than the ST muscle. Along with the increasing marbling level, the IMF content in the LL muscle increased from 2.79 up to 13.30%, whereas in the ST muscle, from 2.80 up to 6.45%. Generally, a higher meat marbling goes together with a decrease of water and protein contents as well as an increase of a protein/fat ratio.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

On the basis of the obtained results, it was stated that the chemical composition and physicochemical quality of mature horses' meat was similar to some other species of red meat. Therefore, the horse flesh could be a valuable substitute of culinary meat, especially beef. The high dressing percentages reflected the horses' usefulness for meat production. Moreover, considering a slight number of defects occurring in horse meat (i.e. DFD or PSE), chevaline could be more widely used in the meat industry, in raw or processed form, as a suitable food for human consumption.
THE EFFECT OF CARCASS PART AND PACKAGING METHOD ON THE STORAGE STABILITY OF MECHANICALLY DEBONED CHICKEN MEAT
Authors: OZKECECI R.B. , KARAKAYA M. , YILMAZ M.T. , SARICOBAN C. , OCKERMAN H.W.
Published: July 2008

Mechanically deboned chicken frame meat (MDCFM) and mechanically deboned chicken neck meat (MDCNM) samples were obtained from mechanically deboned chicken meat (MDCM) by a Beehive separator. MDCM was vacuum‐ or air‐packed and stored frozen for 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks. The effects of packing and storage time of MDCFM and MDCNM on free fatty acid (FFA), peroxide and TBA values were determined, and the interaction effects between part of carcass (frame or neck), storage form (either vacuum‐ or air‐packed) and storage time on these parameters were investigated. The significant (P < 0.001; 0.05) effect of storage time on pH, FFA, peroxide and TBA values was determined. Part of carcass and storage form were the factors with the greatest effect (P < 0.001) on TBA values, followed by the effect of storage time. In general, neck meats were more stable than frame meats with regard to TBA values during storage period; however, these values increased with prolonged storage time. Among the interactions, TBA values were highly influenced by carcass part × storage form. Vacuum‐packed MDCNM could be stored for up to 24 weeks within normal limitations with respect to the stability of the parameters studied.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Mechanically deboned poultry meat (MDPM) has been increasingly used in the food industry because of its fine consistency and lower cost. However, some problems may occur due to the usage of MDPM. Rapid onset of oxidative stability resulting in off‐flavors and off‐odors is among these problems. It has been extensively reported that this oxidative stability can be influenced by factors such as storage time and storage form. However, only limited research has focused on the effect of carcass part on the oxidative stability of MDPM, even the combined effect of carcass part with two other factors. In this study, the linear and interaction effect of these factors (carcass part, storage form and storage time) on the oxidative stability of MDPM were studied.
THE QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF M. LONGISSIMUS FROM HANWOO (KOREAN CATTLE) WITH DIFFERENT FLOOR SPACE
Authors: LEE S.K. , PANJONO  , KANG S.M. , PARK Y.S. , KIM T.S. , SONG Y.H.
Published: July 2008

The quality characteristics of Musculus longissimusfrom Hanwoo bulls with different floor space were studied. Fifteen heads of bulls were randomly divided into three groups (9, 18 and 27 m2). At 48 h postslaughter, samples were collected and stored at 4 ± 0.5C for 9 days. The n6/n3 polyunsaturated fatty acid of the meat from cattle in 27 m2 was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that in other groups. The meat of cattle in 27 m2 contained more C20:5 n‐3 eicosapentaenoate (EPA) (P < 0.05) than the meat from cattle in 9 m2. The pH value and drip loss of the meat from cattle in 27 m2 were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those in other groups. The 2‐thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and peroxide values of the meat from cattle in 27 m2 were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than those in other groups at 6 and 9 days of storage. The increasing floor space from 9 to 27 m2 improved the fatty acid composition, water‐holding capacity and lipid stability of the meat.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Meat quality is one of the important values related to human well‐being. Floor space is one of the important factors in animal welfare that affect beef quality. Increasing the floor space from 9 to 27 m2 for bulls during the finishing period had improved the meat quality, especially in respect to fatty acid composition, water‐holding capacity and lipid oxidation resistance.
SHELF LIFE OF NEW CULTURE SPECIE (DIPLODUS PUNTAZZO) IN REFRIGERATOR
Authors: CAKLI S. , KILINC B. , DINCER T. , TOLASA S.
Published: July 2008

The shelf life of sharp snout sea bream (Diplodus puntazzo) stored in refrigerator was investigated by measurement of sensory, chemical (total volatile basic nitrogen [TVB‐N], trimethylamine [TMA‐N], thiobarbituric acid [TBA] and pH) and microbiological (total viable and psychrophilic count) analysis. According to the sensory and chemical analysis results evaluated, the shelf life of sharp snout sea bream was detected as 10 days for storage at refrigeration temperatures, respectively, as compared with 8 days of sensory analysis results.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sharp snout sea bream is one of the important fish species in the aquaculture sector in Turkey. In recent years, the aquaculture sector was mainly interested with the fish species Dicentrarchus labrax and Sparus aurata, but nowadays, a new valuable fish aquaculture is possible in this sector. Diplodus puntazzo, Dentex dentex and Sciena umbra are some of them. The importance of this study came from being the first in the literature that determines the shelf life for these species.
Simulating a Lake as a High‐Conductivity Variably Saturated Porous Medium
Authors: Chui Ting Fong May , Freyberg David L.
Published: July 2008

One approach for simulating ground water–lake interactions is to incorporate the lake into the ground water solution domain as a high‐conductivity region. Previous studies have developed this approach using fully saturated models. This study extends this approach to variably saturated models, so that ground water–lake interactions may be more easily simulated with commonly used or public domain variably saturated codes that do not explicitly support coupled lake–water balance modeling. General guidelines are developed for the choices of saturated hydraulic conductivity and moisture retention and relative permeability curves for the lake region. When applied to an example ground water–lake system, model results are very similar to those from a model in which the lake is represented as a specified head boundary continuously updated by a lake mass balance. The high‐conductivity region approach is most suitable for relatively simple geometries and lakes with slower and smaller fluctuations when the overall flow pattern and system fluxes, rather than the detailed flow pattern around the intersection of the lake and land surfaces, are of interest.
Risk Management of BTEX Contamination in Ground Water—An Integrated Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Qin X. S. , Huang G. H. , Li Y. P.
Published: July 2008

An integrated fuzzy simulation‐assessment method (FSAM) was developed for assessing environmental risks from petroleum hydrocarbon contamination in ground water. In the FSAM, techniques of fuzzy simulation and fuzzy risk assessment were coupled into a general framework to reflect a variety of system uncertainties. A petroleum‐contaminated site located in western Canada was selected as a study case for demonstrating applicability of the proposed method. The risk assessment results demonstrated that system uncertainties would significantly impact expressions of risk‐level outputs. A relatively deterministic expression of the risks would have clearer representations of the study problem but may miss valuable uncertain information; conversely, an assessment under vaguer system conditions would help reveal potential consequences of adverse effects but would suffer from a higher degree of fuzziness in presenting the modeling outputs. Based on the risk assessment results, a decision analysis procedure was used to calculate a general risk index (GRI) to help identify proper responsive actions. The proposed method was useful for evaluating risks within a system containing multiple factors with complicated uncertainties and interactions and providing support for identifying proper site management strategies.
Using MODFLOW 2000 to Model ET and Recharge for Shallow Ground Water Problems
Authors: Doble Rebecca C. , Simmons Craig T. , Walker Glen R.
Published: July 2008

In environments with shallow ground water elevation, small changes in the water table can cause significant variations in recharge and evapotranspiration fluxes. Particularly, where ground water is close to the soil surface, both recharge and evapotranspiration are regulated by a thin unsaturated zone and, for accuracy, must be represented using nonconstant and often nonlinear relationships. The most commonly used ground water flow model today, MODFLOW, was originally designed with a modular structure with independent packages representing recharge and evaporation processes. Systems with shallow ground water, however, may be better represented using either a recharge function that varies with ground water depth or a continuous recharge and evapotranspiration function that is dependent on depth to water table. In situations where the boundaries between recharging and nonrecharging cells change with time, such as near a seepage zone, a continuous ground water flux relationship allows recharge rates to change with depth rather than having to calculate them at each stress period. This research article describes the modification of the MODFLOW 2000 recharge and segmented evapotranspiration packages into a continuous recharge‐discharge function that allows ground water flux to be represented as a continuous process, dependent on head. The modifications were then used to model long‐term recharge and evapotranspiration processes on a saline, semiarid floodplain in order to understand spatial patterns of salinization, and an overview of this process is given.
Long‐Term Trends in Chloride Concentrations in Shallow Aquifers near Chicago
Authors: Kelly Walton R.
Published: July 2008

The rapid expansion of major cities throughout the world is resulting in the degradation of water quality in local aquifers. Increased use of road deicers since the middle of the 20th century in cities in the northern United States, Canada, and Europe has been linked to degraded ground water quality. In this article, Chicago, Illinois, and its outlying suburban areas are used as an example of the effects of urbanization in a historical context. A statistical study of historical water quality data was undertaken to determine how urbanization activities have affected shallow (<60 m) ground water quality. Chloride (Cl−) concentrations have been increasing, particularly in counties west and south of Chicago. In the majority of shallow public supply wells in the western and southern counties, Cl− concentrations have been increasing since the 1960s. About 43% of the wells in these counties have rate increases greater than 1 mg/L/year, and 15% have increases greater than 4 mg/L/year. Approximately 24% of the samples collected from public supply wells in the Chicago area in the 1990s had Cl− concentrations greater than 100 mg/L (35% in the western and southern counties); median values were less than 10 mg/L before 1960. The greater increase in Cl− concentrations in the outer counties is most likely due to both natural and anthropogenic factors, including the presence of more significant and shallower sand and gravel deposits, less curbing of major highways and streets, and less development in some parts of these counties.
Reflections on independence in nurse practitioner practice
Authors: Weiland Sandra A
Published: July 2008

Purpose: To examine factors that influence the ability of nurse practitioners (NPs) to practice as independent primary care providers.

Data sources: Extensive literature search on CINAHL, OVID, MEDLINE, Internet journal sources, and professional association Web sites.

Conclusions: The legal authority for NPs to practice independently is recognized; however, the ability to put that authority into practice is undermined by the historical failure of political, professional, and social entities to recognize NPs as providers capable of providing primary care autonomously. Nonrecognition is responsible for complex reimbursement policies (both federal and state) that economically and professionally restrain the NP role; hence, NPs remain in a financially dependent relationship despite 40 years of proven safe practice. NPs must articulate their independence as practitioners more vociferously in order to meet society’s healthcare requirements, as well as to attain professional fulfillment and forge collegial relationships.

Implications for practice: NPs will never be seen as members of a profession by either themselves or others without the practicality of independence and autonomy. Although legal independence is a fact, real practice independence in the pragmatic sense is contingent upon reimbursement. Without fiscal sustainability, practice independence is an impossibility. And, without professional autonomy, NPs will have only an employee’s voice in the dynamic healthcare system in which they are really key players in providing healthcare services to the poor and undeserved populations.
Can’t stop dancing: Could it be St. Vitus’ dance?
Authors: Rogness Corrie
Published: July 2008

Purpose: To inform providers of one of the rare but significant consequences that result from not diagnosing and treating streptococcal pharyngitis: Sydenham’s chorea (St. Vitus’ dance).

Data sources: Current Internet sources including review articles, informational articles, online medical textbooks, and professional organization Web sites.

Conclusion: It is vital that each case of streptococcal pharyngitis be treated with appropriate antibiotic therapy. Doing so will help prevent the sequelae associated with streptococcal infections, such as acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and Sydenham’s chorea.

Implications for practice: Streptococcal pharyngitis is a common illness that has the potential to cause very serious consequences. The consequences may be life altering, such as suffering permanent heart damage. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics, the sequelae of ARF and Sydenham’s chorea can be prevented.
Depression and anxiety outcomes at a free clinic in a rural state
Authors: Burman Mary E. , Petrie Jennifer
Published: July 2008

Purpose: To describe the diagnostic and treatment patterns for depression and anxiety in clients receiving care at a free clinic.

Data sources: Charts for 43 clients who received antidepressant or anxiolytic medications were randomly selected and reviewed.

Conclusions: Clients presented to the clinic symptomatic; almost two thirds had been treated elsewhere. Most clients received pharmacological treatment and referral for counseling. Forty‐four percent of the clients were still being treated at their last visit, but 33% were no longer being seen, and it could not be determined if they were receiving care at another clinic.

Implications for practice: If sustained relationships with clients with depression and anxiety can be developed, appropriate care can be provided.
Nurse practitioners’ knowledge and practice regarding malignant melanoma assessment and counseling
Authors: Furfaro Terri , Bernaix Laura , Schmidt Cynthia , Clement Jacquelyn
Published: July 2008

Purpose: To evaluate the knowledge base and clinical practices of nurse practitioners (NPs) within the states of Illinois and California regarding malignant melanoma.

Data sources: Data sources included responses to a 57‐item self‐administered questionnaire and 15‐item demographic survey. A convenience sample of 93 certified NPs from Illinois and California, aged 27–68 years, participated in the study. Participants responded to questions relating to knowledge of malignant melanoma preventive measures, risk factors, barriers to performing malignant melanoma assessments, and lesion recognition.

Conclusions: Overall, the NPs in this study demonstrated adequate knowledge about malignant melanoma but conducted general skin and malignant melanoma assessments less than half of the time and provided patient teaching about preventive measures and risk factors only occasionally. While California NPs demonstrated significantly greater knowledge about malignant melanoma than the Illinois NPs, they performed less skin and malignant melanoma assessments and provided less teaching. The most frequently cited barrier to performing malignant melanoma examinations for both states was time constraints.

Implications for practice: NPs can play a pivotal role in reducing the morbidity and mortality of malignant melanoma through competent skin assessments and patient education and encouraging patients to pursue healthy lifestyles. Improving NPs’ assessment skills and knowledge about malignant melanoma, however, is critical to achieving this goal.
An innovative approach to peer review for the advanced practice nurse—A focus on critical incidents
Authors: Kenny Katherine J , Baker Laurie , Lanzon Marie , Stevens Lily R , Yancy Margaret
Published: July 2008

Purpose: To provide an overview of the development and implementation of a peer review process for advanced practice nurses (APNs) based on critical incidents that provide meaningful evaluation of practice and meets the needs of APNs across multiple care specialties and practice situations.

Data sources: A review of the literature and evaluation of the existing peer review process currently in place at a large tertiary care facility.

Conclusions: Peer review is central to self‐regulation and professional practice for APNs. It has been proposed that APNs of similar rank and clinical expertise should participate in peer review. APN peer review and evaluation have traditionally existed as a component of performance evaluation, evaluation of practice patterns, and compliance monitoring, and to evaluate quality indicators. We found no examples of peer review in the context of evaluating a critical incident in the literature. The APN Peer Review Committee and the review process were developed at our institution to provide peer input and communication to all credentialed APNs in incidents regarding appropriateness of care and scope of practice.

Implications for practice: APNs must assure that they have a voice in the peer review process. Representation by peers of similar specialty and rank is an important component in the peer evaluation process. The establishment of the APN Peer Review Committee served this purpose for our institution.
Nurse practitioners’ communication styles and their impact on patient outcomes: An integrated literature review
Authors: Charlton Cody R. , Dearing Karen S. , Berry Judith A. , Johnson Mary Jayne
Published: July 2008

Purpose: The purpose of this review was to examine the published research from 1999 to 2005 describing nurse practitioner (NP)–patient interactions and to determine the best practice to enhance patient outcomes.

Data sources: Databases searched included Academic Search Elite, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Health Source Consumer Edition, Health Source Nursing/Academic Edition, Medline, and PsychInfo.

Conclusions: Two communication styles described in the literature and determined by authors were (a) biomedical and (b) biopsychosocial. The biopsychosocial style is identified as patient‐centered communication. Seven studies were then analyzed for NPs’ communication styles and the impact that they had on patient outcomes. The studies analyzed demonstrated that biopsychosocial (patient‐centered) communication style positively influences patient outcomes as evidenced by (a) improved patient satisfaction, (b) increased adherence to treatment plans, and (c) improved patient health.

Implications for practice: The results of this review indicate that patient‐centered communication incorporated into the NPs’ practice is associated with improving patient outcomes such as (a) improved patient satisfaction, (b) increased adherence to treatment plans, and (c) improved patient health. Future research needs to be performed in order to fully study the relationship between NPs using patient‐centered communication style and its impact on patient outcomes. Clinical recommendations are made based on findings of the integrated literature review.
Acute necrotising pulmonary vasculitis and pulmonary hypertension in a juvenile dog
Authors: Russell N. J. , Irwin P. J. , Hopper B. J. , Olivry T. , Nicholls P. K.
Published: July 2008

A five‐month‐old female Jack Russell terrier was presented for investigation of acute lethargy, anorexia, coughing, respiratory distress and weakness. Examination findings included cyanosis, a grade 3 of 6 systolic heart murmur and prolonged capillary refill time. Radiography and echocardiography revealed severe pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale and right‐sided heart failure. Indirect measurement of the systolic pulmonary artery pressure estimated pressures over 100 mmHg. Despite treatment the patient died. Post‐mortem examination did not identify a congenital cardiovascular anomaly. Histopathology confirmed acute necrotising pulmonary arteritis and immunohistochemistry failed to identify any immune complex or complement deposition.
Tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture in dogs: a review of 59 dogs
Authors: Gower J. A. , Bound N. J. , Moores A. P.
Published: July 2008

Objectives: To evaluate the high incidence of tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture diagnosed in skeletally immature Staffordshire bull terriers presenting to a UK animal welfare charity hospital.

Methods: A retrospective review of tibial tuberosity avulsion fractures treated by the hospital between 2002 and 2007.

Results: Sixty‐five tibial tuberosity avulsion fractures were recorded in 59 dogs. Fifty‐one tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture‐affected dogs (86 per cent) were Staffordshire bull terriers. Dogs sustaining tibial tuberosity avulsion fractures had median and mean ages of five and 4·9 months, respectively (range three to 10 months). Where recorded, injury was associated with a short fall or jump (typically 3 to 4 feet) in 29 of 50 dogs. Three fracture patterns were recorded: 37 stifles sustained isolated tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture; 15 stifles sustained tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture accompanied by separation of the proximal tibial epiphysis; in 13 stifles epiphyseal separation extended to produce Salter‐Harris type II fracture of the caudal tibial metaphysis. On analysis of the hospital database, tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture was a reason for presentation in 51 (3·3 per cent) of 1536 Staffordshire bull terriers, but only five (0·18 per cent) of 2815 other breed dogs, registered under the age of 12 months during the study period (P<0·001).

Clinical Significance: Staffordshire bull terriers commonly present with tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture, with or without concurrent separation of the proximal tibial epiphysis, to this urban charity hospital.
Skin diseases of the dog and cat: clinical and histopathologic diagnosis
Authors: Nuttall Tim
Published: July 2008

Skin diseases of the dog and cat: clinical and histopathologic diagnosis
 Thelma Lee Gross, Peter Ihrke, Emily Walder and Verena Affolter Published by Blackwell Publishing, 2005, 2nd edition, 944 pages, hardback, £155.00, ISBN‐10: 0632064528, ISBN‐13: 9780632064526
A retrospective study of canine D‐dimer concentrations measured using an immunometric “Point‐of‐Care” test
Authors: Dewhurst E. , Cue S. , Crawford E. , Papasouliotis K.
Published: July 2008

Objectives: To measure the D‐dimer concentrations in both healthy dogs and dogs with and without evidence of thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation using a “Point‐of‐Care” test.

Methods: Sixty‐seven clinical cases and 26 healthy dogs were included in this retrospective study. D‐dimer was measured using the NycoCard D‐dimer test. Clinical conditions were categorised based on clinical findings, laboratory results, imaging, cytology, histopathology, necropsy or a combination of these tests.

Results: There were no dogs for which the NycoCard D‐dimer test did not produce a result. The D‐dimer range in clinically healthy dogs was 0·1 to 0·5 mg/l (median 0·2 mg/l). In eight of nine cases with thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation and 43 of 58 of the cases without thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation , the D‐dimer concentrations were greater than those of healthy dogs.

Clinical Significance: The NycoCard D‐dimer test card required no specialised equipment and could therefore facilitate rapid screening for thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation in first opinion practice. Elevations in D‐dimer concentration can be found in a number of clinical conditions apart from thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation and should not therefore be used as the sole basis of diagnosis. D‐dimer may be considered a good screening test for thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation as only one case with histopathological evidence of thromboembolic disease/disseminated intravascular coagulation had a D‐dimer concentration in the range seen in healthy dogs.
Managing a Veterinary Practice
Authors: Mullineaux Elizabeth
Published: July 2008

Managing a Veterinary Practice
 Caroline Jevring‐Back with Erik Back Published by Saunders Elsevier, 2007, 2nd edition, paperback, 356 pages, Price £34.99, ISBN‐10: 0702028207 ISBN‐13: 978‐0702028205
The Changing Significance of Race: African‐Americans and the Hebrew Bible
Authors: Reid Stephen
Published: July 2008

The role of race in African‐American biblical scholarship has shifted in the last 30 years. The scholars of the G.I. generation treated African presence in the Hebrew Bible as the central element in their research. The baby boom generation scholars work with the Hebrew Bible as a cultural icon for cultural criticism. It remains to see what directions Gen X research will take in the years to come.
Neutrophil Infiltration in Normal Human Skin After Exposure to Different Ultraviolet Radiation Sources
Authors: Lee Peter L. , Van Weelden Huib , Bruijnzeel Piet L. B.
Published: July 2008

Exposure of the skin to UV radiation can lead to a local infiltration of neutrophils. Not much is known on whether the infiltration of neutrophils in the irradiated skin is UV source dependent. In this study we compared different UV sources (solar‐simulated radiation [SSR], narrowband [NB]‐UVB, broadband [BB]‐UVB and UVA1) in their potency to induce neutrophil infiltration in normal human skin after exposure to two times the minimal erythema dose of UV radiation. Biopsies were collected from irradiated buttock skin 6 and 24 h after irradiation and from nonirradiated skin. The presence, distribution and amount of skin‐infiltrated neutrophils were determined using immunohistochemical staining. Analysis revealed that SSR was most effective in inducing neutrophil infiltration. NB‐UVB gave a neutrophil influx pattern similar to that seen with SSR but in smaller numbers. BB‐UVB and UVA1 were far less potent in inducing neutrophil infiltration compared with SSR or NB‐UVB. Our findings indicate that neutrophil infiltration in the UV‐irradiated skin is UV source dependent. When the spectra emitted by the different UV sources were compared UVB seemed to be more effective than UVA in inducing neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, our results suggest that longer wavelengths within the UVB range are mostly responsible for the infiltration of neutrophils in the UV‐irradiated skin.
Photophysical Properties of the Prefluorescent Nitroxide Probes QT and C343T
Authors: Bueno Claudia , Mikelsons Larisa , Maretti Luca , Scaiano J. C. , Aspée Alexis
Published: July 2008

The photophysical properties of the nitroxide prefluorescent probes 4‐(3‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐4‐quinolinoyloxy)‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐piperidin‐4‐yl) ester free radical (QT) and 2,3,4,6,7,8‐hexahydro‐quinolizino [1,10,9‐gh] coumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid (1‐oxyl‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐piperidin‐4‐yl) ester free radical (C343T) were evaluated as a function of pH and solvent properties. The absorbance of QT showed high pH sensitivity. The pKa values for the different ionization forms involved in the acid–base equilibrium of the quinoline chromophore were determined in the ground and excited states. The fluorescence lifetimes of QT, and N‐hydroxylamine (QTH) and quinoline methyl ester (QMe) derivatives, showed that the intramolecular quenching efficiency by the nitroxide moiety is independent of the quinoline ionization form. The fluorescence and absorbance of C343T were highly sensitive to solvent polarity in agreement with a charged transfer excited state of the chromophore. However, we noted a decrease in the intramolecular fluorescence quenching efficiency by the nitroxide moiety when changing the polarity of the solvent from hexane to water. This behavior has been attributed to a suppression of an energy transfer mechanism in the nitroxide quenching process in very polar solvents. The results obtained in micelles allow us to propose QT and C343T as sensors for pH and micropolarity, respectively, in addition to their role as monitors for free radicals or hydrogen transfer from phenols.
The Photolysis of Chlorocarbonylbis(triphenylphosphine)iridium(I) in Chloroform
Authors: Witter Brian M. , Karabulut Merve , Hoggard Patrick E.
Published: July 2008

Under 254 or 313 nm irradiation in chloroform, [IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2] is converted cleanly to [IrCl2(CO)H(PPh3)2] through the addition of HCl, produced photochemically. Under 254 nm irradiation, some of the reaction of [IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2] occurs by direct photolysis of chloroform, though a greater contribution arises from a reaction initiated through absorption of light by the metal complex. Under 313 nm irradiation, essentially all of the reaction is metal‐initiated. The linear dependence of the reaction rate on light intensity and on the fraction of light absorbed by the Ir(I) complex as well as the lack of a deuterium isotope effect rule out a radical process. Instead it is proposed that an association complex between excited state [IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2] and CHCl3 leads to dissociation of a chlorine atom from CHCl3, yielding HCl after abstraction of a hydrogen from another CHCl3. HCl then adds to a ground state [IrCl(CO)(PPh3)2] complex.
Nondenatured Soy Extracts Reduce UVB‐induced Skin Damage via Multiple Mechanisms
Authors: Chen Nannan , Scarpa Richard , Zhang Li , Seiberg Miri , Lin Connie B.
Published: July 2008

UV irradiation results in DNA damage, inflammation and immunosuppression, leading to the development of basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Earlier data show that topical treatment with nondenatured soy extracts reduced the incidence and delayed the development/progression of already‐initiated skin tumors in high‐risk hairless mice. Here we show that pretreatment with nondenatured soy extracts reduced UVB‐induced Thymine‐Thymine (TT) dimer formation. In vitro, nondenatured soy extracts enhanced UVB‐induced checkpoint kinase‐1 (Chk1) activation, suggesting a delay in cell cycle progression that enables longer time for DNA repair. Soy also reduced UVB‐induced cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression and prostaglandin E2 secretion, and inhibited p38 MAP kinase activation, suggesting its anti‐inflammatory activity. Mice pretreated topically with nondenatured soy extracts had reduced levels of UVB‐induced TT dimers and COX‐2 expression in their skins compared to UVB alone. The nondenatured soy extracts also inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor‐induced endothelial tube formation in Matrigel, suggesting a possible inhibitory effect on angiogenesis and tumor progression. Taken together, nondenatured soy extracts could prevent or reduce UVB‐induced skin damage via multiple mechanisms, affecting both the initiation and the progression of skin cancer. These data suggest that topical application of nondenatured soy extracts could potentially reduce the incidence of skin cancer.
Fluorescence Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer with New Water Soluble Hypericin Bound to Polyvinylpyrrolidone: PVP‐Hypericin
Authors: Kubin Andreas , Meissner Philipp , Wierrani Franz , Burner Ursula , Bodenteich Angelika , Pytel Akos , Schmeller Nikolaus
Published: July 2008

Although conventional white light endoscopy (WLE) is currently the gold standard for diagnosing bladder tumors, rates of false negative results and residual tumors after transurethral resection are relatively high. The goal of the present clinical study is to investigate whether using new water soluble hypericin (PVP‐hypericin) as a fluorescent dye improves bladder cancer detection and diagnosis. Following instillation of PVP‐hypericin (total amount of 0.25 mg hypericin bound to 25 mg polyvinylpoyrrolidone [PVP], reconstituted in 50 mL phys. sodium chloride solution), WLE and fluorescence cystoscopy (photodynamic diagnosis; PDD) were performed on patients with suspected primary or recurrent bladder malignancies (n = 57). Incubation time was 1–2 h and biopsies (n = 163) were taken from fluorescing regions and/or from regions which were suspicious under WLE. Histological investigations of the biopsies provided the final proof of malignancy (or the counterevidence). Results indicated that overall sensitivity with PVP‐hypericin and PDD is significantly higher (95%) than with WLE (85%). The sensitivity of PDD in the diagnosis of carcinoma in situ (n = 12) was 100% compared with 33% for WLE. In the diagnosis of dysplasia, the sensitivity of PDD was 85% compared with 31% for WLE. PDD has a positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.75% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.86%, in comparison to WLE PPV = 0.66% NPV = 0.58%. Biopsies were not taken from healthy tissues, thus specificity was markedly lower in our study (53%) than that reported in other studies (98–100%). As a conclusion, PDD using PVP‐hypericin is superior to WLE in terms of sensitivity in the diagnosis of malignancies of the bladder. Results suggest that PVP‐hypericin is a promising formulation for various diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Mechanism of UV‐Induced IκBα‐Independent Activation of NF‐κB
Authors: László Csaba F. , Wu Shiyong
Published: July 2008

Nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) plays an important role in UV‐induced skin tumorigenesis. Activation of NF‐κB by UV‐irradiation is composed of two phases. The early phase culminates with maximal levels of DNA binding ability at 4 h postirradiation and is dependent on translational inhibition. The late‐phase activation of NF‐κB occurs between 16 and 48 h post‐irradiation and the mechanism is not clear due to the fact that NF‐κB was activated in the presence of high level of IκBα. In this report, we provide evidence that without translational inhibition, the transcription of IκBα was induced by UV‐irradiation. In the late‐phase of UV‐induced NF‐κB activation, the IκBα depletion is the combined result of regulation at both transcriptional and translational levels. Neither ubiquitination nor proteasomal degradation have detectable attributions to IκBα breakdown. We also demonstrate that UV only induced phosphorylation of p65(S276), while tumor necrosis factor‐α induced phosphorylation at both Ser276 and 536 sites of p65. Based upon our results, we propose a novel mechanism for translation‐regulated IκBα depletion and MSK‐mediated NF‐κB activation at 24 h post‐UV‐irradiation.
Algorithm for in vitro Sun Protection Factor Based on Transmission Spectrum Measurement with Concomitant Evaluation of Photostability
Authors: Miura Yoshimasa , Takiguchi Yoshihiro , Shirao Masayuki , Takata Sadaki , Yanagida Takeshi , Fukui Hiroshi , Naganuma Masako , Hatao Masato
Published: July 2008

In thein vitro evaluation of Sun Protection Factor (SPF), the photostability of the ultraviolet (UV) filters can have a major impact, especially for high‐SPF formulations, but is generally not taken into consideration. In this study, we present a UV transmission spectrum measurement system utilizing a high‐sensitivity UV photomultiplier tube with concomitant evaluation of photostability. We have developed an algorithm to estimate SPF in vitro by converting the amount of UV light transmission through the sunscreen layer into cumulative relative erythema effectiveness to obtain one minimal erythema dose. Thus, the algorithm uses the same endpoint as in vivo SPF methods, but with a photomultiplier tube as the detector instead of skin. The values obtained showed an excellent correlation with in vivo SPF values, even for high‐SPF sunscreens exceeding SPF 50. This method should be suitable as an in vitro SPF testing method for regulatory purposes.
Overview of the Inactivation by 254 nm Ultraviolet Radiation of Bacteria with Particular Relevance to Biodefense
Authors: Coohill Thomas P. , Sagripanti Jose‐Luis
Published: July 2008

Our goal was to ultimately predict the sensitivity of untested bacteria (including those of biodefense interest) to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In this study, we present an overview and analysis of the relevant 254 nm data previously reported and available in the literature. The amount of variability in this data prevented us from determining an “average” response for any bacterium. Therefore, we developed particular selection criteria to include the data in our analysis and suggested future guidelines for reporting UV sensitivity results. We then compiled a table of the sensitivity to 254 nm UV for 38 bacteria and three bacterial spores. The UV sensitivity was quite similar (within 10%) among the spores of Bacillus anthracis (strains Vollum 1B and Sterne), Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus megaterium. These data indicate that spores of B. subtilis and B. megaterium could be adequate simulants of B. anthracis spores in UVC experiments. Spores of B. anthracis, B. subtilis and B. megaterium were 5–10 times more resistant to UV than were their corresponding vegetative cells. The vegetative cells of B. anthracis showed similar UV sensitivity to those of Burkholderia pseudomallei, Shigella sonnei, and a wild‐type strain of Escherichia coli. Yersinia enterocolitica and Vibrio cholerae appeared more sensitive to UV and Salmonella typhi slightly more resistant to UV than E. coli. The sensitivity (at 254 nm) of all vegetative bacteria ranged from 11 to 80 Jm2 for a 1 Log10 kill and from 25–200 Jm2 for 4 Log10 kill.
Photosensitized Oxidation of Hypoxanthine and Xanthine by Aluminum Phthalocyanine Tetrasulfonate. Role of the Alkylating Quinone 2,5‐Dichloro‐diaziridinyl‐1,4‐benzoquinone
Authors: Alegria Antonio E. , Inostroza Yaritza , Kumar Ajay
Published: July 2008

Photoirradiation of nitrogen‐saturated aqueous solutions containing aluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (AlPcS4) at 675 nm in the presence of 2,5‐dichloro‐diaziridinyl‐1,4‐benzoquinone (AZDClQ) and hypoxanthine (HX) produces the oxidized HX derivatives, xanthine (X) and uric acid (UA). Concentrations of the AZDClQ semiquinone, X and UA increase at the expense of HX with an increase in irradiation time. Almost negligible decomposition of HX, as well as very low amounts of X, are detected if photolysis occurs under identical conditions but in the absence of AZDClQ. Addition of calf‐thymus DNA produces quinone‐DNA covalent adducts after photolysis of anaerobic samples containing quinone, DNA and AlPcS4, in the presence or absence of HX and at pH 5.5. However, larger amounts of quinone‐DNA adducts are detected if HX is present. The results presented here could have applications in the photodynamic treatment of hypoxic tissues such as solid tumors, under conditions of high HX concentration, where Type‐I pathways could be more important than singlet oxygen generation.
Measurement of Lens Protein Aggregation in Vivo Using Dynamic Light Scattering in a Guinea Pig/UVA Model for Nuclear Cataract
Authors: Francis Simpanya M. , Ansari Rafat R. , Leverenz Victor , Giblin Frank J.
Published: July 2008

The role of UVA radiation in the formation of human nuclear cataract is not well understood. We have previously shown that exposing guinea pigs for 5 months to a chronic low level of UVA light produces increased lens nuclear light scattering and elevated levels of protein disulfide. Here we have used the technique of dynamic light scattering (DLS) to investigate lens protein aggregation in vivo in the guinea pig/UVA model. DLS size distribution analysis conducted at the same location in the lens nucleus of control and UVA‐irradiated animals showed a 28% reduction in intensity of small diameter proteins in experimental lenses compared with controls (P < 0.05). In addition, large diameter proteins in UVA‐exposed lens nuclei increased five‐fold in intensity compared to controls (P < 0.05). The UVA‐induced increase in apparent size of lens nuclear small diameter proteins was three‐fold (P < 0.01), and the size of large diameter aggregates was more than four‐fold in experimental lenses compared with controls. The diameter of crystallin aggregates in the UVA‐irradiated lens nucleus was estimated to be 350 nm, a size able to scatter light. No significant changes in protein size were detected in the anterior cortex of UVA‐irradiated lenses. It is presumed that the presence of a UVA chromophore in the guinea pig lens (NADPH bound to zeta crystallin), as well as traces of oxygen, contributed to UVA‐induced crystallin aggregation. The results indicate a potentially harmful role for UVA light in the lens nucleus. A similar process of UVA‐irradiated protein aggregation may take place in the older human lens nucleus, accelerating the formation of human nuclear cataract.