bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shifts in dialysis patients from natural disasters in 2005
Authors: KLEINPETER Myra A.
Published: September 2007

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita alerted the world to North America's Gulf Coast's vulnerability to natural disasters. This vulnerability was most evident in poor, minority and elderly populations, and patients with chronic diseases requiring treatment such as dialysis. These hurricanes resulted in massive devastation of the healthcare infrastructure, including dialysis units, across the Gulf Coast region, and often resulted in temporary or permanent closure of dialysis units, predominately in the New Orleans metropolitan area; however, Hurricane Rita primarily affected Lake Charles. Most notable was the population shift of dialysis patients in Louisiana due to hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Before the 2005 hurricane season, there were 2011 and 362 dialysis patients residing in the parishes (the Louisiana equivalent to counties) most affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita, respectively. Each of these parishes had experienced increases in dialysis patient populations over the past 5 years. However, following the storms, there were 1014 and 316 dialysis patients residing in the affected parishes. Reasons for the population shifts were multifactorial in nature and included individual, provider, and healthcare system factors. As patients and physicians return to these affected areas, dialysis services will need to be reallocated based on new demographics and distribution of services in Louisiana communities. In planning for future dialysis services, adaptations will need to occur to prevent future interruption of services and loss of patient access to dialysis services.
Rafs constitute a nodal point in the regulation of embryonic endothelial progenitor cell growth and differentiation
Authors: Bidzhekov Kiril , Hautmann Martina , Semisch Matthias , Weber Christian , Engelmann Bernd , Hatzopoulos Antonis K.
Published: September 2007

Mouse embryonic endothelial progenitor cells (eEPCs) acquire a mature phenotype after treatment with cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), suggesting an involvement of Raf serine/threonine kinases in the differentiation process. To test this idea, we investigated the role of B‐Raf and C‐Raf in proliferation and differentiation of eEPCs by expressing fusion proteins consisting of the kinase domains from Raf molecules and the hormone binding site of the estrogen receptor (ER), or its variant, the tamoxifen receptor. Our findings show that both B‐ and C‐Raf kinase domains, when lacking adjacent regulatory parts, are equally effective in inducing eEPC differentiation. In contrast, the C‐Raf kinase domain is a more potent stimulator of eEPC proliferation than B‐Raf. In a complimentary approach, we used siRNA silencing to knockdown endogenously expressed B‐Raf and C‐Raf in eEPCs. In this experimental setting, we found that eEPCs lacking B‐Raf failed to differentiate, whereas loss‐of C‐Raf function primarily slowed cell growth without impairing cAMP‐induced differentiation. These findings were further corroborated in B‐Raf null eEPCs, isolated from the corresponding knockout embryos, which failed to differentiate in vitro. Thus, gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments point to distinct roles of B‐Raf and C‐Raf in regulating growth and differentiation of endothelial progenitor cells, which may harbour therapeutic implications.
Anti‐cholesterol antibody levels in hereditary angioedema
Authors: Varga Lilian , Bíró Adrienn , Széplaki Gábor , Tóth Luca , Horváth Anna , Füst George , Farkas Henriette
Published: September 2007

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disorder caused by the deficiency of the C1‐inhibitor gene (C1INH) and characterized by recurrent bouts of angioedema. Autoimmune disorders frequently occur in HAE. Previously we found, that danazol has an adverse effect on serum lipid profile: reduced high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) and elevated low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels are associated with long‐term prophylactic use, whereas total cholesterol levels are unchanged. Our aim was to study the anti‐cholesterol antibody (ACHA) production in HAE patients and compare it with those of healthy blood donors, and to investigate the possible associations between ACHA levels and serum lipid profile alterations caused by danazol. Anti‐cholesterol IgG levels were measured by ELISA and their correlation with serum concentrations of total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides was determined in HAE patients receiving/not receiving danazol. Serum ACHA levels were significantly higher in HAE patients, compared to healthy blood donors (P < 0.0001). Longterm danazol prophylaxis had no effect on serum ACHA levels in HAE patients. However, we found a significant, negative correlation between ACHA levels and serum total cholesterol (r =−0.4033, P = 0.0200), LDL (r =−0.4565, P = 0.0076) and triglyceride (r =−0.4230, P = 0.0121) levels only in danazol‐treated patients, but not in HAE patients who did not receive long‐term prophylaxis. Patients with HAE have higher baseline ACHA levels compared to healthy subjects, and this might reflect polyclonal B‐cell activation. The latter would be a potential explanation for the lack of an increased incidence of infectious diseases in HAE patients, but might lead to increased autoimmunity.
Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha mutational status and immunohistochemical expression in Merkel cell carcinoma: implications for treatment with imatinib mesylate
Authors: Swick Brian L. , Ravdel Larisa , Fitzpatrick James E. , Robinson William A.
Published: September 2007

Background:  It is not known if Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs) show mutations in the platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) gene similar to a subset of gastrointestinal stromal cell tumors. The purpose of this study was to analyze MCCs for mutations in the PDGFRA gene as well as to analyze those MCCs exhibiting a possible mutation in the PDGFRA gene for immunohistochemical expression of PDGFRA.

Methods:  We extracted tumor DNA from nine MCCs, performed polymerase chain reaction amplification of PDGFRA exons 10, 12, 14 and 18, and directly sequenced those gene products for mutations. In addition, we evaluated for PDGFRA immunostaining in three MCCs showing a possible PDGFRA gene mutation.

Results:  Three out of nine (33.3%) MCCs showed an identical novel single heterozygous base change in exon 10 of the PDGFRA gene leading to an amino acid substitution at codon 478. In addition, all three (100%) of those MCCs expressed PDGFRA.

Conclusions:  Although it is unknown whether the base change described above represents a true mutation or a single nucleotide polymorphism, the fact that this change was absent in our control specimens suggests that this mutation may be oncogenic in nature and may make imatinib mesylate a possible therapeutic option in MCC.
Acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma: a variant of a benign keratosis
Authors: Ko Christine J. , Barr Ronald J. , Subtil Antonio , McNiff Jennifer M.
Published: September 2007

Acantholytic acanthoma was originally described as a solitary lesion displaying histologic features of acantholysis without dyskeratosis. Solitary, non‐genital lesions displaying confluent acantholysis and dyskeratosis have not been well described in the literature, clinically or histologically. We screened cases at our institution over a 6‐month period and found 28 such lesions. Lesions were most often found on the trunk as a solitary papule, for which the clinical diagnosis was often basal cell carcinoma. There was a slight female predominance. Confluent acantholysis and dyskeratosis is a histologic pattern that may present as a solitary keratosis.
Traumatic neuroma of the lower lip with intraepithelial nerve fibers
Authors: Tashiro Akari , Imafuku Shinichi , Furue Masutaka
Published: September 2007

A 42‐year‐old man had noticed a small tender papule on his lower lip, and the papule clinically became unnoticeable after cryosurgery. He visited our clinic because the lesion recurred up to the original size after 9 months. On examination, a linear scar and a papule, 4 mm in diameter, were observed on the mucosal lower lip. The papule was resected and histopathologically showed proliferation of nerve fibers in irregular and tortuous fascicles, thus establishing the diagnosis of traumatic neuroma. Immunohistochemical staining by antineuron‐specific enolase (NSE) antibody showed proliferation of axons in the upper lamina propria and even in the mucosal epithelium overlying the tumor. Traumatic neuroma of the lower lip is very rare, and a literature search showed only one reported case. Intraepithelial proliferation of axons may be one of the characteristics of mucosal traumatic neuroma.
Lichen planus‐like atopic dermatitis: expanding the differential diagnosis of spongiotic dermatitis
Authors: Summey Brett T. , Bowen Sarah E. , Allen Herbert B.
Published: September 2007

Spongiotic dermatitis represents a commonly encountered histopathological pattern seen by dermatopathologists. The differential diagnosis of lymphocyte predominant acute spongiotic dermatitis typically entails atopic dermatitis (AD), contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, pityriasis rosea and seborrheic dermatitis. Recently, our group has characterized a distinct subtype of spongiotic dermatitis occurring exclusively in heavily pigmented patients. Clinically, lesions of this subtype are nearly indistinguishable from lichen planus. However, the histology is contradistinctive to classic lichen planus. The purpose of this report is to raise awareness among dermatopathologists of this variant as a possible diagnosis in spongiotic dermatitis specimens submitted as lichen planus.
Metastatic rhabdoid melanoma: report of a case with a comparative review of the literature
Authors: Gavino Alde Carlo P. , Gillies Elizabeth M.
Published: September 2007

Melanoma has a propensity to mimic the morphologic appearances of a wide variety of epithelial and soft tissue neoplasms. Although rarely encountered, these unusual morphologic variants of melanoma are often treacherous and may be difficult and challenging to diagnose. Thus, recognition of these variants is of paramount importance in the evaluation of any kind of epithelial or soft tissue neoplasm. Rhabdoid melanoma is one such example of these melanoma variants. Very few cases of rhabdoid melanoma have been reported, most of which were found in metastatic lesions. We wish to expand this rather sparse body of literature by reporting a case of metastatic rhabdoid melanoma arising subcutaneously in the right thigh of a 64‐year‐old man with a remote history of primary toe melanoma. Moreover, we present a comparative review of the clinical, histologic, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural features of previously reported cases. We found significant heterogeneity in the extent of rhabdoid change, expression of melanocytic and non‐melanocytic markers and ultrastructural filamentous patterns in the cases we reviewed. It is our hope that this case report and literature review will help pathologists in the evaluation of neoplasms with rhabdoid morphology.
Pulse granuloma in a rectocutaneous fistula
Authors: Tschen Jose A. , Tschen Jaime A.
Published: September 2007

Pulse granulomas are rare foreign body reactions to vegetable material characterized by hyaline rings or starch granules. Pulse granulomas have mainly been reported in association with lung aspirations, the oral cavity with a history of oral procedures and less frequently in intestinal fistulae, colonic diverticulae or stomach ulcers. Only one case involving the skin has been reported in a patient with jejunocutaneous and ileocutaneous fistulae. We report the second cutaneous pulse granuloma in a patient with a rectocutaneous fistula.
Voltaire and Russia in the Age of Enlightenment
Authors: Gorbatov Inna
Published: September 2007

Voltaire's long interest in Russia was probably stimulated during his research for the Histoire de Charles XII. His ties to Russia became even closer in 1746, during the reign of Elizabeth, daughter of Peter the Great, when he was made an honorable member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and appointed a Historiographer of the Russian Empire. In 1757, the Empress asked Voltaire to write the history of Peter the Great. Voltaire's Histoire de l'empire de Russie sous Pierre le Grand became an important undertaking for Russia's new sovereign, Catherine II, who wanted to publicly demonstrate her firm support for Peter's Western‐looking reforms.

Catherine had been reading Voltaire's works for most of her adult life before she began her correspondence with him in 1763. The empress counted on Voltaire to favorably influence public opinion in Europe. Ultimately, he played a predominant role in creating the image of Catherine the Great as a wise, just, and democratic ruler. However, the revolutionary events that swept France instantly transformed Catherine from a ruler charmed by the new Enlightenment ideas into a reactionary autocrat, who ultimately broke up forever with Voltaire.
Diurnal differences in melatonin effect on intracellular Ca2+ concentration in chicken spleen leukocytes in vitro
Authors: Wronka Michał , Maleszewska Marta , Stępińska Urszula , Markowska Magdalena
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Melatonin plays a pleiotropic role in the immune system of mammals and birds. Endogenous and exogenous melatonin modulates lymphocyte proliferation via specific MT1, MT2 and Mel1c membrane receptors, although the mechanisms behind this process are poorly understood. The diurnal changes in the expression and function of melatonin membrane receptors within the immune system have so far received little attention. We investigated the day/night differences in melatonin membrane receptor mRNA expression in chicken lymphoid organs and cultured splenocytes and examined the in vitro effect of melatonin and 2‐iodomelatonin on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in chicken splenocytes. In whole organs, expression of all subtypes of Mel membrane receptors was observed, and the level did not change significantly with the time of day. Interestingly, we observed a significant increase in the expression of the transcripts of all receptor subtypes in cultured splenocytes isolated at night compared with cells obtained during the day. In chicken spleen leukocytes isolated during the day, melatonin and 2‐iodomelatonin increased [Ca2+]i, with only 2‐iodomelatonin being effective in the ‘night’ cells. Luzindole modulated the [Ca2+]i increase caused by melatonin receptor agonists: it potentiated the stimulatory effect of melatonin during the day, but counteracted that evoked by 2‐iodomelatonin at night. The results of this study demonstrate that melatonin can induce changes in [Ca2+]i in chicken spleen leukocytes that should modulate proliferation. The effect of melatonin on [Ca2+]i is less pronounced at night, possibly caused by receptor desensitization.
A Bioinformatics Approach to Identifying Tail‐Anchored Proteins in the Human Genome
Authors: Kalbfleisch Ted , Cambon Alex , Wattenberg Binks W.
Published: September 2007

Intracellular proteins with a carboxy‐terminal transmembrane domain and the amino‐terminus oriented toward the cytosol are known as ‘tail‐anchored’ proteins. Tail‐anchored proteins have been of considerable interest because several important classes of proteins, including the vesicle‐targeting/fusion proteins known as SNAREs and the apoptosis‐related proteins of the Bcl‐2 family, among others, utilize this unique membrane‐anchoring motif. Here, we use a bioinformatic technique to develop a comprehensive list of potentially tail‐anchored proteins in the human genome. Our final list contains 411 entries derived from 325 unique genes. We also analyzed both known and predicted tail‐anchored proteins with respect to the amino acid composition of the transmembrane segments. This analysis revealed a distinctive composition of the membrane anchor in SNARE proteins.
Dietary guidance for obese children and their families using a model nutritional balance chart
Authors: SATOH Atsuko , MENZAWA Kazuko , LEE Sangun , HATAKEYAMA Aiko , SASAKI Hidetada
Published: September 2007

Aim:  Childhood obesity has been described as a public health disaster. Nutritional balance is surely one of the key factors to reduce obesity, but successful nutritional education has not been reported yet. In the present study, an easily handled model nutritional balance chart (MNBC) for obese children and their families was investigated.

Methods:  Twenty‐one children received dietary guidance using the MNBC once per month for 6 months. Eight control children did not receive dietary guidance but cooperated in providing data once per month. The effectiveness of the program was judged by changes in nutritional balance, percentage overweight values based on age‐ and sex‐specific standard body weights for height, and responses to questionnaires.

Results:  The percentage overweight values significantly decreased after 6 months for the intervention group, while the percentage overweight values for the eight control children showed a tendency to increase. Improvement in the nutritional balance was observed for sugar and beans. Most children using the MNBC described paying more attention to their nutritional balance than before.

Conclusion:  Our guidance method seems to be useful for obese children and their families.
Independent Japanese midwives: A qualitative study of their practise and beliefs
Authors: GEPSHTEIN Yana , HORIUCHI Shigeko , ETO Hiromi
Published: September 2007

Aim:  In the midwifery literature in English, little attention is paid to midwifery practise in Asian countries. To remedy this, we explore the knowledge and beliefs of independent Japanese midwives.

Methods:  We collected data in natural settings through the active participation of the authors in midwifery work after receiving informed consent. We visited midwives’ practise settings and observed ante‐partum, intra‐partum, and post‐partum midwifery practise. We also interviewed the midwives. Throughout the study, the authors discussed the findings with the participating midwives.

Results:  The concepts that summarize what midwives and women in our study described as the desired outcomes of care were: (i) feelings of happiness and joy; (ii) positive change; (iii) mother–child bonding; and (iv) lifelong health. The concepts that guided the midwifery process were: (i) positive communication; (ii) the woman’s commitment to her health; (iii) supporting the woman’s own way; (iv) the support of other pregnant women; (v) food as care; (vi) warmth; and (vii) respect for the natural process. The two encompassing features of midwifery practise were: (i) awareness, which includes the assurance of normalcy and the prevention of abnormalities; and (ii) networking and collaboration, which describes the relationships of midwives with their colleagues, doctors, and other health professionals.

Conclusion:  The traditional knowledge of Japanese midwives offers concepts that might be useful to international midwifery and should be studied more in depth.
Superior mesenteric artery syndrome as a rare cause of duodenal obstruction
Authors: Cheung Hester Y.S. , Tang Chung‐Ngai , Li Michael K.W.
Published: September 2007

Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is a rare cause of duodenal obstruction. The syndrome can present as acute small bowel obstruction or intermittent compression symptoms such as postprandial epigastric pain, fullness or vomiting. The obstruction is caused by compression of the third part of the duodenum against the posterior structures by the narrow‐angled superior mesenteric artery. The diagnosis is easily confused with gastric outlet obstruction or proximal small bowel obstruction. A high index of clinical suspicion is crucial for diagnosis and computed tomography provides confirmatory evidence. We report two cases of superior mesenteric artery syndrome and a review of the literature for this condition.
Recovery of isolated third nerve palsy related to treatment of unruptured posterior communicating artery aneurysm
Authors: Tsang Jane P.K. , Wong George K.C. , Ng Stephanie C.P. , Poon Wai‐Sang
Published: September 2007

Aim:  To investigate the timing and degree of recovery of isolated third nerve palsy due to unruptured posterior communicating artery aneurysm among a Chinese population.

Methods:  A total of seven eligible patients were studied during a 4‐year period by retrospective review. The degree of recovery and time to achieve recovery after presentation were the main outcome measures.

Results:  There were seven patients with isolated third nerve palsy related to posterior communicating artery aneurysm. After treatment the median recovery time from the initial symptoms was 14 weeks, ranging from 1 to 60 weeks. Two patients (29%) in this group had mild residual symptoms.

Conclusion:  The present study demonstrated that in patients with isolated third nerve palsy related to posterior communicating artery aneurysm, recovery occurred within the first year and the prognosis of recovery was good.
Pulmonary resection for metastases from colorectal cancer
Authors: Lo Cheuk‐Kin , Chu Colin S.H. , Zhu Tong , Ma Chan‐Chung , Ko Kai‐Ming , Ho Kwok‐Keung
Published: September 2007

Aim: The prognosis of patients with disseminated colorectal carcinoma is poor except for those with single organ pulmonary or hepatic metastases. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the result of pulmonary metastasectomy for colorectal secondary and to identify the prognostic factors.

Methods: This was a retrospective study of 80 patients who had pulmonary metastasectomy for pulmonary secondary from colorectal carcinoma in Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong.

Results: The overall 5‐year and 10‐year survival rates of the entire cohort were 42.5% and 35.5%, respectively. High premetastasectomy carcinoembryonic antigen (> 20 μg/dL), short disease‐free interval (< 12 months) and incomplete resection were the independent prognostic factors. Neither the characteristics of the primary colorectal tumour nor the number of metastatic nodules had a significant contribution to the long‐term survival. Six patients underwent second pulmonary metastasectomy and three were still free from tumour recurrence after the second operation.

Conclusion: Patients with pulmonary metastases from colorectal carcinoma would benefit from pulmonary metastasectomy. High premetastasectomy carcinoembryonic antigen and short disease‐free interval were negative predictive factors for survival. Long‐term follow‐up study is required, as recurrence can occur more than 5 years after pulmonary metastasectomy. Also, whether the survival benefit is due to surgical treatment effect or lead‐time bias remains undecided.
Fenestration of auricular cartilage to expedite secondary intention healing
Authors: Galadari Hassan I. , Abrou Ayad Edward , Rogers Gary S.
Published: September 2007

After removal of skin lesions including carcinomas, surgery of the external ear repair provides a challenge to the surgeon anatomically and physiologically. The auricular cartilage has minimal vascularity and creates a convoluted physical conformation. Primary closures and grafts performed on surgical ear defects are difficult to design and execute. Fenestration of the auricular cartilage creates a rich vascular bed that aids in healing by secondary intention or graft uptake. The present article illustrates how to perform the above‐mentioned surgical technique.
Fig Wasps: A Staple Food for Ants onFicus
Authors: Schatz Bertrand , Kjellberg Finn , Nyawa Samhan , Hossaert‐McKey Martine
Published: September 2007

Mutualisms involve the exchange of resources and these resources attract exploiters and predators. Because predators may have a stronger effect either on mutualists or on exploiters, their net effect on the mutualism may be positive or negative. Ants andFicus‐associated wasps are a potential example. These wasps could represent sufficient food to ensure a permanent presence of predators. If this is the case then we may expect divergent selection (dependent on fig species) on traits facilitating or impeding ant predatory activity. DioeciousFicusspecies in Brunei present the opportunity to determine whether presence of fig wasps on a tree ensures increased presence of ants because: (1) wasps are mainly present on male trees, thus allowing study of the effect of wasp abundance on ant presence; and (2) preliminary observations showed that ants present on trees were mainly predatory species that do not tend hemipterans. We show here, for several dioeciousFicusspecies, that many more ants were present on male trees than on female trees. Furthermore, these ants were mainly dominant predatory taxa that often nested in the male trees. Hence, wasps on male trees provide a sufficient resource in terms of quantity and reliability to ensure the continuous presence of dominant ants on the trees.
A RAPID AND SIMPLE METHOD FOR SCREENING LARGE NUMBERS OF RECOMBINANT DNA CLONES*
Authors: DONG BINGXUE , OUYANG LAN , QIN LIANG , LI GANG
Published: September 2007

Screening recombinant DNA clones from cDNA library or transformation experiments is a regular task in molecular biology research; the routine alkaline extraction procedure is tedious and time consuming (90–120 min for 12 samples), and unsuitable for screening large numbers of clones from these experiments, especially when no blue‐white indicator (α‐complementation of lacZ gene) exists in recombinant clones. Some commercial plasmid preparation kits are more rapid (20–60 min for 12 samples) and simple in plasmid extraction; however, they are costly on a daily basis. Therefore, a simple, rapid and economic method for screening recombinant DNA clones is needed. Here we present an extremely simple, rapid and economic procedure of plasmid DNA preparation for screening recombinant clones from cDNA library or transformation experiments based on a modified alkaline lysis method. In this method, bacterial colonies or cultures were directly lysed in 2% NaOH solution, and then recombinant plasmids in the supernatant were visualized quickly by agarose gel electrophoresis. The entire process, from Escherichia coli colonies or cultures to plasmid DNA, takes only about 12–15 min for 12 samples, which is the quickest method for plasmid preparation in our best knowledge. Hundreds of recombinant clones with no easy screening method can be rapidly identified in several hours using this method.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Our approach is extremely rapid and simple to screen large numbers of recombinant clones from bacterial colonies or bacterial cultures of cDNA library or transformation experiments. It is especially suitable for identifying those high copy recombinant vectors without blue‐white color reaction such as pDNR‐LIB, pPICZαA, etc. In addition, this protocol is also suitable for extracting plasmids and screening recombinant DNA clones from bacterial cultures. Our data have indicated that plasmids extracted by our method could meet the criteria for restriction enzyme digestion after neutralization.
VALIDATION OF YEAST IDENTIFICATION BY IN SILICO RFLP
Authors: RASPOR PETER , ZUPAN JURE , ČADEŽ NEŽA
Published: September 2007

Reliability, high reproducibility and high throughput are advantages of genetic identification methods over conventional methods based on phenotypic characteristics. In our work, we showed that the PCR‐RFLP of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) method can be a very powerful identification or validation method, if it is combined with computer‐based restriction analysis of sequences stored in broadening databases. We isolated 197 yeast samples from grape berries and fermenting grape must and identified 13 species. For identification conventional methods, D1/D2 sequencing and PCR‐RFLP of ITS regions were used. Because in our case, conventional methods were found insufficient for reliable and fast identification, in silico RFLP was applied; using appropriate software, enzyme restriction patterns on the agarose gel were simulated and compared with the restriction pattern obtained with PCR‐RFLP. With this in silico approach we managed to identify or validate the identification of all 13 species. Our results show that natural isolates of ascomycetous or basidiomycetous yeasts can be rapidly (in 3 days) and reliably identified by in silico RFLP.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In silico RFLP will be highly useful in the identification process of yeasts that could be reliably identified by conventional methods. For its speed, simplicity, high reproducibility and high throughput if compared to conventional identification methods, the method will be chosen when rapid validation or identification of yeast samples is needed. Another application, determining the enzymes, which distinguishes one species from another using RFLP, is obvious. Moreover, a database of ITS sequences will have great value at phylogenetic classification of new undescribed species.We believe that a program such as CandID with restriction databases of other yeast species can enrich the microbiological practice in the future.
EVALUATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7, LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES, SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM AND STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS IN GROUND BEEF WITH CRANBERRY CONCENTRATE BY THIN AGAR LAYER METHOD
Authors: QIU XUJIAN , WU VIVIAN C.H.
Published: September 2007

The present study investigated the antimicrobial effects of cranberry concentrate on four foodborne pathogens in ground beef. Ground beef samples inoculated with pathogens were supplemented with cranberry concentrate (10% w/w) or sterile water (control) and kept at 21C and 7C for 7 days. Thin agar layer plates were used to enumerate pathogens. Results showed that Salmonella Typhimurium was reduced to undetectable levels after 7 days at 7C and after 3 days at 21C. In contrast to the control, cranberry concentrate suppressed Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus by 2.3–4.1 log cfu/g at 7C and by 5.5–8.0 log cfu/g at 21C on day 7. The antimicrobial effects of cranberry concentrate were more effective at 21C than at 7C. E. coli O157:H7 and S. Typhimurium (Gram‐negative) were more sensitive to the cranberry concentrate than S. aureus and L. monocytogenes (Gram‐positive). Cranberry concentrate could be used to control foodborne pathogens in the food industry.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Ground beef is a potentially hazardous food product, which can be contaminated by pathogens and cause foodborne outbreaks. Cranberries have proven antimicrobial effects and many health benefits. Ground beef supplemented with cranberry concentrate may help to increase the safety of the product and also offer health benefits.
Measuring asthma self‐management knowledge in adults
Authors: Schaffer Susan D. , Yarandi Hossein N.
Published: September 2007

Purpose: To present the development and psychometrics of a brief asthma self‐management questionnaire for adults incorporating the five content areas considered essential for asthma self‐management by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program.

Data sources: After development of the criterion‐referenced questionnaire, determination of content validity, pilot testing, and revision, the questionnaire was administered to 305 adults with asthma.

Conclusions: After exploratory principal component factor analysis, the final 24‐item questionnaire had a reliability of .69, close to the preferred reliability of .70.

Implications: The questionnaire is recommended for assessing self‐management knowledge in clinical settings and for evaluation of asthma education programs.
Insulin detemir: A new option for the treatment of diabetes
Authors: Funnell Martha M.
Published: September 2007

Purpose: To highlight the pharmacology, clinical data, and practical application for the use of insulin detemir, a new long‐acting insulin analog in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Data sources: Published clinical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic studies of insulin detemir, as well as contemporary studies and reviews about the management of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions: Insulin therapy, if titrated appropriately, is the most physiological and effective intervention for lowering blood glucose and may help preserve β‐cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes. Insulin detemir, in comparative clinical trials, has been shown to provide effective glycemic control and a consistent blood glucose–lowering response for up to 24 h, a decreased incidence of nocturnal hypoglycemia, and less weight gain than other basal insulin formulations.

Implications for practice: Insulin therapy is often met with resistance from both patients and healthcare providers because of concerns about its effectiveness, hypoglycemia, injections, and weight gain. Insulin detemir, designed to closely mimic basal insulin secretion, may help overcome some of the barriers to effective diabetes management, i.e., hypoglycemia and weight gain, and lead to better outcomes.
A comparison of folic acid awareness and intake among young women aged 18–24 years
Authors: Hilton Judith Johnson
Published: September 2007

Purpose: To investigate public understanding of the importance of folic acid intake in young women aged 18–24 years.

Data sources: A written questionnaire designed by the researcher was administered to 138 young women aged 18–24 years attending college or those seeking care in the county health facility. A total of 88 complete questionnaires were used for the data analysis.

Conclusions: Young women were not aware of the importance of folic acid, were not taking multivitamins containing folic acid, and were not consuming enough folic acid in their diets. No relationship existed between pregnancy intention and folic acid intake, suggesting that those who were planning a pregnancy in the near future were not consuming adequate amounts of folic acid.

Implications for practice: A lack of knowledge regarding the importance of folic acid may lead to poor pregnancy outcomes. Many educational opportunities exist and should be developed in clinics, physician’s offices, and classes which involve young women in this age group.
Dental Health Among Homebound Elderly
Authors: Strayer Michael S.
Published: September 2007

Currently, little is known about the oral health status, perceived oral health needs, or the extent of dental utilization among community‐dwelling, functionally dependent elderly. The purpose of this study was to describe the dental health of functionally dependent elderly living at home and receiving community‐based support services. The functional limitations experienced by these elderly living at home are comparable to functional limitations experienced by institutionalized elderly and these limitations impact on oral hygiene and access to dental care. Oral examinations and questionnaires were completed on 50 clients of an urban social service agency. Subjects had a mean of 8.8 teeth/person, with 44 percent completely edentulous. Two subgroups identified from the questionnaire—those who perceived themselves homebound (n/30) and those who did not (n=20), did not differ by age, gender, education level, or race. Respondents reported being homebound an average of 4.5 (±2.9) years. The mean decayed, filled teeth for the perceived homebound group was 5.1, and 7.3 for the group that did not perceive themselves as homebound, with both groups averaging less than of one tooth/person with active root decay. Health care and social policy agendas must address the changing scope of oral health needs and limited access to dental care experienced by an aging population retaining more of their natural dentition.
The Influence of Social, Economic, and Professional Considerations on Services Offered by Dentists to Long‐term Care Residents
Authors: Weiss Rachel T. , Morrison Brenda J. , MacEntee Michael I. , Waxier‐Morrison Nancy E.
Published: September 2007

Many studies have focused on the disabilities and behavior of the elderly population in an attempt to explain the frequent reports of poor oral health among residents of long‐term care (LTC) facilities, but little attention has been given to the experiences and opinions of dentists relating to the problem. This study was conducted to discover how dentists feel about older patients and about working in LTC facilities. A response to a questionnaire was obtained from 334 (55%) of the 603 dentists in Vancouver who treated adults. The responses were subjected to bivariate and multivariate analyses. Three models were constructed from factors that might interest a dentist in attending a patient in a facility; the factors in each model were ranked in order of importance. Interest was associated significantly with lack of concern for time lost in practice, with training in managing medically compromised patients, and with a positive attitude toward elderly patients. Dentists with fewer years in practice were attracted by the economic potential of the service, while the older and busier dentists were less involved because of the disruption to their practice and leisure. Dentists who made home visits also were more likely to be interested. The model based on professional considerations was superior to either the social or economic model in explaining an interest in the service.
The Relationship Between Dental Utilization and Preventive Participation Among a Well‐elderly Sample
Authors: Atchison Kathryn A. , Mayer‐Oakes S. Allison , Schweitzer Stuart O. , Lubben James E. , De Jong Fred J. , Matthias Ruth E.
Published: September 2007

Previous studies have shown that dental utilization by older people is lower than for the general population. This study hypothesizes that an elder's tendency toward participating in preventive health activities may be an important factor in explaining the likelihood of accessing the dentist. Subjects included 1,911 older individuals who enrolled in the UCLA Medicare Screening and Health Promotion Trial. All were interviewed about their utilization of preventive health services and participation in preventive behaviors. A recent dental visit was positively associated with all sociodemographic variables examined except age and sex. It was also related to health status questions and utilization of the preventive health services and health behaviors studied. Logistic regression analysis showed that both summary preventive health behavior and preventive service utilization variables were important factors in explaining a recent dental visit (model chi‐square/221.4, P=.001) along with income, not having a removable prosthesis, and perceiving the need for dental care. This study showed that dental utilization is related to older people's participation in other preventive activities. When in contact with older people, health care professionals should consider current oral and general preventive health status and encourage appropriate referral for preventive activities.
Fluoride Supplements in Caries Prevention: A Literature Review and Proposal for a New Dosage Schedule
Authors: Riordan Paul J.
Published: September 2007

Fluoride supplements have contributed significantly to caries prevention; however, better information about the dynamic nature of fluoride's effect on caries has made a reappraisal desirable. It seems, from a review of the literature, that the benefit from supplement use that can be expected today in populations in low‐fluoride areas is small. Possible reasons include the low caries incidence in children of recent years. Few people are willing to use supplements with sufficient regularity to achieve an effect. The principal mode of action of fluoride in supplements, topical exposure of teeth to fluoride, can be achieved with toothpastes and other means. Supplement use has been associated with dental fluorosis in children. This is displeasing to look at and may put at risk the undoubted benefits of water fluoridation if the public associates fluoride with negative cosmetic effects. This reason alone should be sufficient to compel a reconsideration of existing recommendations. An appropriate new dosage schedule for fluoride supplements should be aimed only at identifiable high caries‐risk individuals, not at groups defined by age or residence and should result in much lower fluoride intake in the age span birth‐eight years than many current recommendations. It should start at six months or later, expressly recommend lozenges rather than tablets for swallowing to maximize the topical effect, stipulate that the maximum fluoride ion content of a tablet be 0.50 mg to reduce the chances of fluorosis and over consumption, and have no upper age limit, as caries risk may occur at any age. A dosage schedule meeting these requirements is proposed.
Occlusal Dental Caries Incidence and Implications for Sealant Programs in a US College Student Population
Authors: Stahl John W. , Katz Ralph V.
Published: September 2007

Given the decline in dental caries incidence in preteens and young teenagers in the United States, a study of the incidence of dental caries in young adults (17–23 years) was conducted to provide a descriptive epidemiologic picture of this “new” natural history of dental caries in the late and post‐teenage years. A retrospective study was performed analyzing the detailed dental records of the four‐year college experience in the class of 1989, US Coast Guard Academy. Occlusal caries incidence, in the absence of associated proximal caries, was shown to be moderately common in molars (11.9%) and rare in pre‐ molars (0.8%). In contrast to previous studies' findings, demographic indicators, socioeconomic status indicators, and prior caries experience were poor predictors of occlusal caries incidence; targeting a universal sealant policy in this population therefore would be done best by tooth type rather than patient type. A preliminary costcomparison model, projected over a 40‐month period, suggests that the cost of initiating a universal molar sealant policy in this population would be 92 cents per year per student greater than the cost of restoring occlusal caries in the presence of sound proximal surfaces. This cost comparison suggests that it would be advantageous to initiate such a policy.
Comparison of Oral Health Ratings by Dentists and Dentate Elders
Authors: Atchison Kathryn A. , Matthias Ruth E. , Dolan Teresa A. , Lubben James E. , De Jong Fred , Schweitzer Stuart O. , Mayer‐Oakes S. Allison
Published: September 2007

Previous studies suggest a discrepancy between the way dentists and patients measure oral health. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between a dentist's rating of an older dentate person's oral health and the patient self‐rating using a single‐item indicator, and to compare the clinical (i.e., number of teeth, caries, etc.) and subjective (problems with function, pain, etc.) factors that influence the rating. The study sample consisted of 776 older dentate people. Results showed that dentists judged subjects' oral health significantly more positively than the self‐ratings. Approximately 30 percent of the elders rated their oral health identically to the dentist and half rated their oral health lower than the dentist. Bivariate comparisons showed that similar clinical and subjective variables were associated with the dentist and patient ratings. Multiple regression findings, however, highlighted differences in the factors that influenced the ratings. In addition, the proportion of variance accounted for by the clinical factors as opposed to the subjective factors was greater for the dentist rating (R2=.28 of.33) than the subject self‐rating (R2=.18 of.43).
Delivery of Oral Health Care Through the Ryan White CARE Act to People Infected with HIV
Authors: Schneider Donald A. , Hardwick Kevin S. , Marconi Katherine M. , Niemcryk Steve J. , Bowen G. Stephen
Published: September 2007

The Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency (CARE) Act of 1990 was passed by Congress “to improve the quality and availability of care for individuals and families with HIV disease.” The act targets those individuals infected with HI V who lack financial resources to pay for care. While provision of oral health care is not mandated by the legislation, many oral health services are supported through five different programs receiving CARE Act funding. Legislative mandates, program guidance materials, grant applications, and other related materials were reviewed to analyze oral health care services supported or proposed through the CARE Act. In fiscal year 1991, an estimated $5.8 million of the total CARE Act funds ($229.6 million) were used for oral health care, and there is evidence that oral health concerns will receive increasing attention by grantees in future years. Opportunities exist for local oral health professionals to become involved in CARE Act programs and in the priority development process. It is possible that CARE Act grantees will serve as catalysts for the development of partnerships between private practitioners and public sector programs—relationships that could lead to improved access and quality of care for people with HIV infection.
Characterization of Elastoplastic Properties Based on Inverse Analysis and Finite Element Modeling of Two Separate Indenters
Authors: Gamonpilas Chaiwut , Busso Esteban P.
Published: September 2007

A method that can determine uniquely the elastoplastic properties from indentation loading and unloading curves has been developed. It is based on finite element modeling and inverse analysis of two separate indenters. The approach was validated by numerical experiments using a fictitious material. It was demonstrated that the proposed method can uniquely recover the elastoplastic properties using only indentation load-displacement curves of two indenters. Although the proposed procedure has been used to predict elastoplastic strain hardening behavior, it is also applicable to estimate other mechanical properties where there are more than two unknown parameters, such as rate-dependent behavior.
The Influence of Temperature on the Forming Behavior of Metal/Polymer Laminates in Sheet Metal Forming
Authors: Weiss M. , Dingle M. E. , Rolfe B. F. , Hodgson P. D.
Published: September 2007

The influence of temperature on the forming behavior of an aluminum/polypropylene/aluminum (APA) sandwich sheet was studied. Shear and tensile tests were performed to determine the mechanical properties of the laminate and the component materials as a function of process temperature. The forming limit diagram (FLD) of the laminate was established for two different temperatures, and its springback behavior was examined in four-point bend and channel bend tests. Cup forming tests were performed at various test temperatures to determine the limiting drawing ratio (LDR) and the tendency for wrinkling at these temperatures. Although there was only a minor influence of temperature on the mechanical properties and the FLD values of the laminate, the bend test results reveal that springback can be reduced by forming at higher temperature. The decreasing strength of the core material with rising process temperature led to an increased tendency of the laminate to wrinkle in the heated cup drawing tests.
Noncalculus Treatment of Steady-State Rolling of a Thin Disk on a Horizontal Surface
Authors: Andersen W. L.
Published: September 2007

A coin tossed onto a table often ends up rolling in such a way that the center of mass remains approximately stationary. Although this phenomenon has been studied for many years and is well-documented in the literature, it is perhaps not widely appreciated in the physics education community that the motion can be understood without the use of calculus. In the hopes of providing a pedagogically useful example of physics in everyday life, a solution of the motion of a thin disk rolling in this fashion is reviewed using techniques readily accessible to an algebra-based introductory physics class. In addition, the principal moments of inertia of a thin disk are derived without calculus.