bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Editor's Introduction – No Free Lunch: Dilemmas of Product Quality in China
Authors: Meyer Marshall W.
Published: July 2008

This Editors' Forum – ‘Made in China: Implications of Chinese Product Recalls’ – presents four perspectives on Chinese product recalls: supply chain management, moral degradation or the decline of traditional business ethics, evidence based management and free riding on the ‘Made in China’ brand. Extended supply chains and uncertain ethical standards almost certainly contribute to lapses in product quality as do cost pressures facing most Chinese firms. Product quality issues, moreover, will be most significant for goods posing hidden risks to health and safety, such as food and toys, and less significant for goods like computers and consumer electronics whose conformity to specifications can be readily monitored.
Specificity evolution of the ADP‐dependent sugar kinase family –in silico studies of the glucokinase/phosphofructokinase bifunctional enzyme from Methanocaldococcus jannaschii
Authors: Merino Felipe , Guixé Victoria
Published: July 2008

In several archaea of the Euryarchaeota, the glycolytic flux proceeds through a modified version of the Embden–Meyerhof pathway, where the phosphofructokinase and glucokinase enzymes use ADP as the phosphoryl donor. These enzymes are homologous to each other. In the hyperthermophilic methanogenic archaeon Methanocaldococcus jannaschii, it has been possible to identify only one homolog for these enzymes, which shows both ADP‐dependent glucokinase and phosphofructokinase activity. This enzyme has been proposed as an ancestral form in this family. In this work we studied the evolution of this protein family using the Bayesian method of phylogenetic inference and real value evolutionary trace in order to test the ancestral character of the bifunctional enzyme. Additionally, to search for specificity determinants of these two functions, we have modeled the bifunctional protein and its interactions with both sugar substrates using protein–ligand docking and restricted molecular dynamics. The results show that the evolutionary story of this family is complex. The root of the family is located inside the glucokinase group, showing that the bifunctional enzyme is not an ancestral form, but could be a transitional form from glucokinase to phosphofructokinase, due to its basal location within the phosphofructokinase group. The evolutionary trace and the molecular modeling experiments showed that the specificity for fructose 6‐phosphate is mainly related to the stabilization of a negative charge in the phosphate group, whereas the specificity for glucose is related to the presence of some histidines instead of glutamines/asparagines and to the interaction of this ligand with a glutamic acid residue corresponding to Glu82 in the bifunctional enzyme.
A complete inventory of all enzymes in the eukaryotic methionine salvage pathway
Authors: Pirkov Ivan , Norbeck Joakim , Gustafsson Lena , Albers Eva
Published: July 2008

The methionine salvage pathway is universally used to regenerate methionine from 5′‐methylthioadenosine, a byproduct of certain reactions involving S‐adenosylmethionine. We identified and verified the genes encoding the enzymes of all steps in this cycle in a commonly used eukaryotic model system: the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The genes encoding 5′‐methylthioribose‐1‐phosphate isomerase and 5′‐methylthioribulose‐1‐phosphate dehydratase are herein named MRI1 and MDE1, respectively. The 5′‐methylthioadenosine phosphorylase was verified as Meu1p, the 2,3‐dioxomethiopentane‐1‐phosphate enolase/phosphatase as Utr4p and the aci‐reductone dioxygenase as Adi1p. The homologue of the enolase/phosphatase gene, YNL010w, was excluded from its candidate role in the cycle. The methodology used involved auxotrophic growth tests and analysis of intracellular 5′‐methylthioadenosine in deletion mutants. The last step, a transamination of 4‐methylthio‐2‐oxobutyrate to yield methionine, was found to be a highly redundant step. It was catalysed by amino acid transaminases, mainly coupled with aromatic and branched chain amino acids as amino donors, but also with proline, lysine and glutamate/glutamine. The aromatic amino acid transaminases, Aro8p and Aro9p, and the branched chain amino acid transaminases, Bat1p and Bat2p, seemed to be the main enzymes exhibiting 4‐methylthio‐2‐oxobutyrate transaminase activity. Bat2p was found to be less specific and used proline, lysine, tyrosine and glutamate as amino donors in addition to the branched chain amino acids. Thus, for the first time, all enzymes of the methionine salvage pathway were identified in a eukaryote.
Rare presentation of renal cell carcinoma: Solitary sternal metastasis
Authors: Ngai Ho‐Yin , Ho Lap‐Yin , Chan Tung‐Fei , So Hing‐Shing , Velayudhan Venu , Lam Siu‐Ho
Published: July 2008

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) may present as metastatic disease. However, RCC with solitary sternal metastasis is rare. We report a rare case of RCC with synchronous solitary sternal metastasis. The patient underwent radical nephrectomy, sternal tumour resection and reconstruction as a one‐stage procedure. The role of open sternal biopsy is also described. Review of the literature was carried out and a reasonably lengthy survival was observed. We concluded that radical surgical resection and reconstruction may offer the best chance of survival in managing RCC with solitary sternal metastasis in renal cell carcinoma.
Social Implications of Overweight and Obesity in Children
Authors: Edmunds Laurel D.
Published: July 2008

PURPOSE.  To elucidate some of the social impacts that overweight and obesity in children has on families. Healthcare practitioners may be unaware of these impacts if not similarly affected.

DESIGN.  Qualitative semistructured, interview‐based study.

METHODS.  A purposive sample of parents (n = 58) with overweight and obese children (n = 48) from three areas in the United Kingdom was used. Analysis was thematic and iterative, underpinned by Grounded Theory.

RESULTS.  There are many social situations that have an impact on the child directly (stigmatization), on parents (blame), and on the family in general (being ostracized).

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Seeing the child and his/her family in a broader context with improved understanding of the complexity of raising an overweight child.
Dietary and Physical Activity Patterns: Examining Fathers’ Perspectives
Authors: Snethen Julia A. , Broome Marion E. , Kelber Sheryl , Leicht Sandra , Joachim Jackie , Goretzke Maribeth
Published: July 2008

PURPOSE.  Obesity adversely affects children, yet limited information is available on the familial environmental influence of fathers. The purpose of this study was to examine fathers’ influences on their children's eating and activity patterns.

DESIGN AND METHODS. Participants for this mixed methods study was a convenience sample of 51 multi‐ethnic fathers of children 8–12 years of age, who completed surveys addressing dietary and physical activity behaviors.

RESULTS.  An association was found between fathers’ and children's weight status. Half the children snacked without parental guidance.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.  Nurses need to assist children and their families to develop effective weight management strategies.
Genetic diversity pattern of Stipa purpurea populations in the hinterland of Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Liu W.‐S. , Dong M. , Song Z.‐P , Wei W
Published: July 2008

Stipa purpurea is among constructive endemic species in alpine meadow and steppe on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. To reveal the genetic diversity of this species and its relationship with geographic distribution pattern, we sampled eight populations across a northward transect with an increasing aridity gradient in the hinterland of Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Their genetic diversity was quantified using eight intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers. We found that S. purpurea had relatively low genetic diversity (He = 0.135) but significant genetic differentiation among populations (Gst = 0.391), indicating relatively more genetic diversity retained within populations. A Mantel test revealed a significant relationship between genetic and geographic distance in the S. purpurea populations. The genetic diversity tended to decrease with increasing latitude and longitude, while no significant relationship was found between genetic diversity and altitude, suggesting the possible influences of humidity and temperature on genetic diversity of alpine plant. We propose conservation measures for this plant on the plateau.
EFFECT OF BARREL TEMPERATURE ON REHYDRATION KINETICS OF DIRECT‐EXPANDED TEF FLOUR BREAKFAST CEREAL
Authors: SOLOMON W.K.
Published: July 2008

The effect of barrel temperature (110, 130 and 150C) on the rehydration kinetics of tef flour extrudates was investigated. Rehydration was conducted in distilled water for 300–420 min using a constant‐temperature water bath at 25C (±1C). Water absorption rate was high at the early stages (60–90 min) of hydration, decreased subsequently and finally approached an equilibrium. Three models, namely, Peleg's equation, first‐order kinetic and normalized Weibull model, were fitted to the rehydration data. The three models described the rehydration characteristics adequately (R2 = 0.95–0.99). The water absorption rate and equilibrium moisture content were found to be barrel temperature‐dependent (P < 0.05). Extrudates processed at a barrel temperature of 150C exhibited a high water absorption rate, followed by those extruded at 130 and 110C, respectively. The equilibrium moisture content of extrudates processed at 150 and 130C was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those extruded at 110C. In view of the values of the shape parameter βof the normalized Weibull model, the mechanism of water absorption appeared to be by diffusion for extrudates processed at 130C (β = 0.67), whereas in extrudates processed at 110 (β = 0.89) and 150C (β = 1.03), external resistance to mass transfer and relaxation phenomena, respectively, were found to be the water absorption mechanisms. In comparison, the normalized Weibull model described the rehydration characteristics relatively better, resulting in smaller RMSE value.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Some extruded food products, like breakfast cereals, are consumed after being rehydrated (e.g., in milk). The rehydration characteristics, in turn, are influenced by the extrusion operating conditions. Fast rehydration without much change in the crispiness is a required attribute of breakfast cereals. Describing and modeling the kinetics of moisture uptake as a function of the operating conditions could lead to a better understanding and control over the mechanisms underlying the sorption process and the ability of the product to rehydrate. Such information is vital in process and quality optimization.
CLARIFICATION OF WATERMELON (CITRULLUS LANATUS) JUICE BY MICROFILTRATION
Authors: CHHAYA Ch. , RAI P. , MAJUMDAR G.C. , DASGUPTA S. , DE S.
Published: July 2008

Microfiltration of watermelon juice was conducted using stirred membrane cell in continuous mode. The experiments were conducted at operating pressures of 136.5, 204.7 and 276 kPa, and stirring speeds 1,200 rpm (Re = 1.40 × 105), 1,400 rpm (Re = 1.63 × 105) and 1,600 rpm (Re = 1.87 × 105). Permeate flux decline was analyzed using a first‐order kinetic model, and correlations were developed for the steady‐state polarized layer resistance with the operating conditions, e.g., transmembrane pressure difference, Reynolds number and membrane resistance. The permeate flux was calculated based on the developed correlation, and found to be in good agreement with the actual experimental flux. The change in quality parameters of clarified juice was marginal compared to that of original juice.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The application of membrane technology is one of the emerging areas in food industry. The major application includes fruit juice clarification and concentration. Because of the nonthermal nature of membrane separation, the juice can be clarified at room temperature and packed aseptically for a longer shelf life without the loss of its initial quality parameters. The major problem during clarification is decline in permeate flux of fruit juice with time. Identification of causes for flux decline is essential for designing of membrane modules to make the clarification process commercially viable. The quality of juice during storage is vital, and therefore, determination of variation of its physicochemical properties during storage is also important.
EFFICACY OF INFRARED HEAT TREATMENT FOR INACTIVATION OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS IN MILK
Authors: KRISHNAMURTHY KATHIRAVAN , JUN SOOJIN , IRUDAYARAJ JOSEPH , DEMIRCI ALI
Published: July 2008

The efficacy of infrared (IR) heating for inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogenic microorganism, in milk was studied to investigate the potential of this technology for milk processing. S. aureus population was reduced from 0.10 to 8.41 log10 cfu/mL, depending upon the treatment conditions. The effects of IR lamp temperatures (536 and 619C), volumes of treated milk samples (3, 5 and 7 mL) and treatment times (1, 2 and 4 min) on the lethality of targeted microbes were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). Complete inactivation of S. aureus was obtained in two cases within 4 min at a 619C lamp temperature, resulting in 8.41 log10 cfu/mL reduction. Enrichment resulted in growth as some of the injured cells were able to repair. Further investigation of IR heating for longer treatment times (>4 min) indicated that there was no growth observed following the enrichment in most cases for treatment at the lamp temperature of 619C. The results demonstrated that IR heating has a potential for effective inactivation of S. aureus in milk.To ensure the sterility efficacy, the heating patterns of milk samples under IR radiation were simulated using computational fluid dynamics codes in three dimensions with user‐defined functions for radiative internal energy source terms. The predicted temperature values were in good agreement with the experimental data with the maximum prediction error of 5.2C. Further optimization of the process parameters, i.e., temperature and heating time, using the developed model is expected to ensure that even underprocessed food components will receive desirable doses of lethality, which can result in a commercially successful milk pasteurization method.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Infrared (IR) heating has been used in the food industry as a heating or drying method because of several advantages such as minimal deterioration in food quality, faster heating and higher energy efficiency. IR heating can effectively inactivate pathogenic microorganisms in dairy products compared with conventional heating. IR heating cannot only effectively inactivate pathogenic microorganisms in dairy foods, but also preserve the quality. Furthermore, IR heating is found to be cost effective as it can reduce the energy consumption up to 44% for various food products compared with conventional heating. Results from this study could provide a basis for the application of IR heat treatment for dairy food processing. Further investigation on sensory and quality changes during IR heating can shed light on the efficacy of this process and may provide a potential novel pasteurization method for the dairy industry.
INFLUENCE OF A BLANCHING PRETREATMENT ON COLOR, OIL UPTAKE AND WATER ACTIVITY OF POTATO STICKS, AND ITS OPTIMIZATION
Authors: REIS FELIPE RICHTER , MASSON MARIA LUCIA , WASZCZYNSKYJ NINA
Published: July 2008

The objective of this research was to study the influence of different blanching conditions on potato stick color, oil uptake and water activity (Aw ), and optimize the process by means of the desirability function. Color was expressed as properties of L*a*b*and L*C*h*spaces, some of which were fitted by Box–Behnken quadratic models. The blanching optimum conditions were as follows: a concentration of ascorbic acid of 0.2 g/100 g potato, a time of 5.5 min and a temperature of 69C. Responses obtained when using these conditions were −1.68 a*value and −86.31° h*value, which represent a hue in potatoes unaffected by the enzymatic browning. Regarding oil uptake, some of the blanched sticks absorbed 31% less oil than the control. Regarding Aw, all blanched samples presented lower values than the control, suggesting that blanching increases the shelf life of fried potatoes.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This article presents that the optimized blanching process conditions were able to control the enzymatic browning in potato sticks prior to frying, and thus improved their quality. Furthermore, some blanching conditions were found to decrease by 31% the oil uptake in potato sticks, leading to healthier fried potatoes. Finally, blanching significantly decreased the Aw in all fried potato sticks evaluated, suggesting that this process is also a way to increase the shelf life of fried potatoes.
Digital Photography as a Tool to Measure School Cafeteria Consumption
Authors: Swanson Mark
Published: July 2008

Background: Assessing actual consumption of school cafeteria meals presents challenges, given recall problems of children, the cost of direct observation, and the time constraints in the school cafeteria setting. This study assesses the use of digital photography as a technique to measure what elementary‐aged students select and actually consume from school cafeteria meals.

Methods: Before and after still digital photographs were taken of labeled trays for every lunch served to elementary students over 4 lunch periods. Two analysts visually estimated the amount of each item consumed from every tray, and those estimates were compared to evaluate interrater reliability.

Results: Collection of photographic data was rapid and did not disrupt the busy elementary cafeteria setting. Analysts’ estimates of consumption levels of meal components (main and side dishes) were within 10% of each other in 92% of the cases. Only 0.2% of items could not be analyzed due to children playing with food or otherwise obstructed photographs.

Conclusions: Digital photography offers researchers and school food service personnel a highly accurate and cost‐effective tool to measure actual consumption of school cafeteria meals. Data collected through this method can be evaluated by simple counts of servings of produce or other food groups or by more detailed analyses of nutritional composition.
Effective Mast Cell Degranulating Peptide Inhibitors of the IgE/FcɛRI Receptor Interaction
Authors: Buku Angeliki , Keselman Inna , Lupyan Dmitry , Mezei Mihaly , Price Joseph A.
Published: July 2008

Previous studies with mast cell degranulating (MCD) peptide have shown that peptide [Ala12]MCD 8 was an inhibitor of IgE binding to mast cell receptors. In an attempt to produce increased inhibition, analogs were synthesized that maintained the alanine residue in position 12 in the MCD peptide sequence and were further modified at both termini. Analogs modified at the C‐terminus were [Ala12,desLys21]MCD 2 and [Ala12,d‐Lys21]MCD 4. N‐terminus modifications were [desLys6–Arg7–His8,Ala12]MCD 1, [Ala6, Ala12]MCD 6, and [Val6,Ala12]MCD 7. To assess the role of the Proline12, analogs [d‐Ala12]MCD 3 and [Meleu12]MCD 5 were also synthesized. The analogs were tested for binding to the IgE receptor in cultured mast cells. Inhibitory activity of IgE‐caused degranulation was measured using a β‐hexosaminidase assay. Circular dichroism (CD) and molecular modeling of selected analogs were used to follow possible structural differences among these analogs. All analogs showed binding affinity to the IgE receptor and inhibition of IgE‐induced mast cell degranulation at different levels. Differences in inhibition were most likely because of diverse interactions of the analogs with the receptor as inferred by the CD and modeling studies. Based on the results of the β‐hexosaminidase assay, analog [Val6, Ala12]MCD 7 proved to be an excellent inhibitor of IgE‐mediated mast cell degranulation.
Implications of excessive water withdrawals to the environment of Northern Cyprus
Authors: Elkiran Gozen , Ongul Zehra
Published: July 2008

Northern Cyprus (NC) is at the cutting edge of complete salinization of freshwater resources. In spite of some precautions taken to reduce seawater intrusion of the groundwater resources, the contamination had increased up to brackish water attribute in the coastal aquifers. The Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management (IWRM) system was introduced as a powerful tool in order to identify water consumption in the country. To perform the future forecast, it is necessary to determine the water needs at the present time; thus, this research analysed the present and historical water budget of the country under normal and drought conditions. The calculations were extended to future forecasting of water needs considering different scenarios for the country. The results obtained were grouped into monthly, sector wise and regional consumptions. The water extractions are linked to the available water amounts, and the water deficiencies in the aquifers were revealed. A rough economical analysis of new water resources was also performed. Conclusions and recommendations are provided to guide scientists, engineers and stakeholders for the future studies and evaluations.
Rural–Urban Analyses of Health‐Related Quality of Life Among People With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Buchanan Robert J. , Zhu Li , Schiffer Randolph , Radin Dagmar , James Wesley
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) is a multi‐dimensional construct including aspects of life quality or function that are affected by physical health and symptoms, psychosocial factors, and psychiatric conditions. HRQOL gives a broader measure of the burden of disease than physical impairment or disability levels.

Purpose:

To identify factors associated with HRQOL among people with multiple sclerosis (MS) utilizing the SF‐8 Health Survey. Methods: Data presented in this study were collected in a survey of 1,518 people with MS living in all 50 states. The survey sample was randomly selected from the database of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, using ZIP codes to recruit the survey sample. A multiple linear regression model was employed to analyze the survey data, with the Physical Component Summary and the Mental Component Summary of the SF‐8 the dependent variables. Independent variables were demographic characteristics, MS‐disease characteristics, and health services utilized. Findings: People with MS in rural areas tended to report lower physically related HRQOL. Worsening MS symptoms were associated with reduced physical and mental dimensions of HRQOL. In addition, people with MS who received a diagnosis of depression tended to have reduced physical and mental dimensions of HRQOL. Receiving MS care at an MS clinic was associated with better physically related HRQOL, while having a neurologist as principal care physician was associated with better mental‐related HRQOL. Conclusion: The challenge is to increase the access that people living with MS in rural areas have to MS‐focused specialty care.
Access to Specialty Health Care for Rural American Indians in Two States
Authors: Baldwin Laura‐Mae , Hollow Walter B. , Casey Susan , Hart L. Gary , Larson Eric H. , Moore Kelly , Lewis Ervin , Andrilla C. Holly A. , Grossman David C.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

The Indian Health Service (IHS), whose per capita expenditure for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) health services is about half that of the US civilian population, is the only source of health care funding for many rural AI/ANs. Specialty services, largely funded through contracts with outside practitioners, may be limited by low IHS funding levels. Purpose: To examine specialty service access among rural Indian populations in two states. Methods: A 31‐item mail survey addressing perceived access to specialty physicians, barriers to access, and access to non‐physician clinical services was sent to 106 primary care providers in rural Indian health clinics in Montana and New Mexico (overall response rate 60.4%) and 95 primary care providers in rural non‐Indian clinics within 25 miles of the Indian clinics (overall response rate 57.9%). Findings: Substantial proportions of rural Indian clinic providers in both states reported fair or poor non‐emergent specialty service access for their patients. Montana's rural Indian clinic providers reported poorer patient access to specialty care than rural non‐Indian clinic providers, while New Mexico's rural Indian and non‐Indian providers reported comparable access. Indian clinic providers in both states most frequently cited financial barriers to specialty care. Indian clinic providers reported better access to most non‐physician services than non‐Indian clinic providers. Conclusions: Reported limitations in specialty care access for rural Indian clinic patients appear to be influenced by financial constraints. Health care systems factors may play a role in perceived differences in specialty access between rural Indian and non‐Indian clinic patients.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Risk Behaviors Among California Farmworkers: Results From a Population‐Based Survey
Authors: Brammeier Monique , Chow Joan M. , Samuel Michael C. , Organista Kurt C. , Miller Jamie , Bolan Gail
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases and associated risk behaviors among California farmworkers is not well described. Purpose: To estimate the prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and associated risk behaviors among California farmworkers. Methods: Cross‐sectional analysis of population‐based survey data from 6 California agricultural regions was performed for participants tested for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhea (GC), and syphilis, and who completed an interviewer‐administered behavioral risk factor survey. Findings: Among the 403 males and 234 females examined and interviewed, males (29.3%) were more likely than females (9.6%) to have had 2 or more sex partners in the past 5 years. Forty‐two percent of males ever had sex with a commercial sex worker; unmarried males were more likely than married males to report sex with a commercial sex worker in the past 2 years. Twelve percent of males and 5% of females reported ever having had an STD. Most participants did not report any methods to protect against STDs. Of 192 males and 178 females tested for CT, 3 males and no females were positive. No cases of GC were found. Of 387 males and 194 females tested for syphilis, 4 males and 1 female had positive rapid plasma reagin (RPR) and Treponema pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) results. Conclusions: In this population‐based survey among agricultural workers, there was low STD prevalence but high prevalence of sexual risk behaviors, particularly among males.
Depression and Poverty Among Rural Women: A Relationship of Social Causation or Social Selection?
Authors: Simmons Leigh A. , Braun Bonnie , Charnigo Richard , Havens Jennifer R. , Wright David W.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context and Purpose:

Depression among rural women is a major public health concern. The purpose of this study was to test the competing theories of social causation and social selection to assess the relationship between depression and economic status for a sample of rural, low‐income women in the United States. Methods: Structural equation modeling was used to analyze data from Rural Families Speak, a US Department of Agriculture‐funded multi‐state, longitudinal study of rural low‐income families (N = 413). Findings: Results indicated that the social causation theory yielded a better approximation of the relationship between economic status and depression (RMSEA = 0.50 for a model based on this theory) than the social selection theory (RMSEA = 0.067). Conclusions: The association between lesser economic status and depressive symptoms is pressing in rural areas, given the high prevalence of both depression and poverty. These findings further emphasize the need for improved mental health services in this vulnerable population.
Fruit and Vegetable Dietary Behavior in Response to a Low‐Intensity Dietary Intervention: The Rural Physician Cancer Prevention Project
Authors: Carcaise‐Edinboro Patricia , McClish Donna , Kracen Amanda C. , Bowen Deborah , Fries Elizabeth
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

Increased fruit and vegetable intake can reduce cancer risk. Information from this study contributes to research exploring health disparities in high‐risk dietary behavior. Purpose: Changes in fruit and vegetable behavior were evaluated to assess the effects of a low‐intensity, physician‐endorsed dietary intervention in a rural population. Methods: The study was a randomized trial of 754 patients from 3 physician practices in rural Virginia. Low‐literacy nutrition education materials and personalized dietary feedback were administered by mail and telephone. Mixed model analysis of variance was used to determine the effect of the intervention on fruit and vegetable intake behavior, knowledge, intentions, and self‐efficacy at 1, 6, and 12 months. Findings: The intervention effect was moderated by age, race, sex, and education. Intake at 1 and 6 months was increased for older and younger participants and those with some college, and further maintained at 12 months by those who did not complete high school. African Americans in the intervention group displayed significantly greater intentions to increase fruit/vegetable intake than whites/others. Knowledge of fruit/vegetable recommendations significantly increased in the intervention group at 12 months, particularly for men. Conclusions: For the rural population, a low‐intensity physician‐endorsed self‐help dietary intervention was successful in initiating fruit and vegetable dietary changes at 1 and 6 months post‐intervention, and increasing intentions to change in African Americans. The relationship of the moderating effects of age, race, sex and education need to be further explored in relation to dietary intervention and dietary behavior change for the rural population.
Ethics Committees in the Rural Midwest: Exploring the Impact of HIPAA
Authors: Having Karen M. , Hale Dena , Lautar Charla J.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

Confidentiality of personal health information is an ethical principle and a legislated mandate; however, the impact of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) on ethics committees ethics committees is limited. Purpose: This study investigates the prevalence, activity, and composition of ethics committees located in rural central and southern Illinois. Additionally, the impact of the HIPAA Officer serving on the committee is reported. Methods: Surveys were mailed to the “Administrator or Ethics Committee Chairperson” at rural Illinois hospitals and skilled care facilities. Survey items included committee composition and perception of HIPAA‐related involvement. Findings: Over one third (36.7%) of the facilities reported having formal ethics committees. Hospitals were more likely (79.3%) to have ethics committees than skilled nursing facilities (20.7%). Ethics committee members usually include an administrator, nurse, and physician. The smaller the facility (based on number of beds), the more likely it was to have a HIPAA Officer on the committee. Committees with a HIPAA Officer were more likely to be involved in monitoring and/or remediation of HIPAA privacy and security violations. Most respondents, however, did not feel the committee should be involved in these issues. Conclusions: Although the sample size is too small to generalize, HIPAA does seem to have an effect on the issues discussed by ethics committees. Furthermore, ethics committees that include a HIPAA Officer in the membership report increased committee involvement in HIPAA related issues.
Promoting Regional Disaster Preparedness Among Rural Hospitals
Authors: Edwards Janine C. , Kang JungEun , Silenas Rasa
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context and Purpose:

Rural communities face substantial risks of natural disasters but rural hospitals face multiple obstacles to preparedness. The objective was to create and implement a simple and effective training and planning exercise to assist individual rural hospitals to improve disaster preparedness, as well as to enhance regional collaboration among these hospitals. Methods: The exercise was offered to rural hospitals enrolled with the Rural and Community Health Institute of the Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, and 17 participated. A 3‐hour tabletop exercise emphasizing regional issues in a pandemic avian influenza scenario followed by a 1‐hour debriefing was implemented in 3 geographic clusters of hospitals. Trained emergency preparedness evaluators documented observations of the exercise on a standard form. Participants were debriefed after the exercise and provided written feedback. Results: Observations included having insufficient staff for incident command, facility constraints, the need to further develop regional cooperation, and operational and ethical challenges in a pandemic. Conclusions: The tabletop exercise gave evidence of being a simple and acceptable tool for rural medical planners. It lends itself well to improving medical preparedness, analysis of weak spots, development of regional teamwork, and rapid response.
Identifying the Gaps Between Biodefense Researchers, Public Health, and Clinical Practice in a Rural Community
Authors: Van Fleet‐Green Jessica M. , Chen Frederick M. , House Peter
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Objective:

It is essential for health care professionals to be prepared for a bioterrorist attack or other public health emergency. We sought to determine how well biodefense and emerging infectious disease research information was being disseminated to rural health care providers, first responders, and public health officials. Methods: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted at a federally funded research institution and a rural community in Washington state with 10 subjects, including researchers, community physicians and other health care providers, first responders, and public health officials. Results: The interviews suggest there is inadequate information dissemination regarding biodefense and emerging infectious disease research and an overall lack of preparedness for a bioterrorist event among rural clinicians and first responders. Additionally, a significant communication gap exists between public health and clinical practice regarding policies for bioterrorism and emerging infectious disease. There was, however, support and understanding for the research enterprise in bioterrorism. Conclusions: Biodefense preparedness and availability of information about emerging infectious diseases continues to be a problem. Methods for information dissemination and the relationships between public health officials and clinicians in rural communities need to be improved.
Minors and biomedical research in Singapore
Authors: Chan Tracey E.
Published: July 2008

This paper examines the challenges of enrolling minors in biomedical research that does not offer participants any prospect of direct benefit. It does so in the context of the current Singapore regime for the protection of research subjects, and seeks to evaluate if this is adequate for the task. In the process, it reviews appropriate Commonwealth and US precedents, regulatory instruments and guidelines that bear on three main issues raised by such research, and makes some recommendations on how they might be better addressed: first, the protective ceilings of risk prescribed beyond which minors may not be exposed to. Secondly, the allocation of decision-making authority and processes employed before a minor is permitted to enrol in such research. Finally, the particular regulatory oversight mechanisms that are needed to improve ethical and legal compliance.
Purinergic activation of a leak potassium current in freshly dissociated myocytes from mouse thoracic aorta
Authors: Hayoz S. , Bychkov R. , Serir K. , Docquier M. , Bény J.‐L.
Published: July 2008

Aim: Exogenous ATP elicits a delayed calcium‐independent K+current on freshly isolated mouse thoracic aorta myocytes. We investigated the receptor, the intracellular pathway and the nature of this current.

Methods: The patch‐clamp technique was used to record ATP‐elicited delayed K+current in freshly dissociated myocytes.

Results: ATP‐elicited delayed K+current was not inhibited by a ‘cocktail’ of K+channel blockers (4‐AP, TEA, apamin, charybdotoxin, glibenclamide). The amplitude of the delayed K+current decreased after the reduction of extracellular pH from 7.4 to 6.5. These two characteristics suggest that this current could be carried by the TASK subfamily of ‘twin‐pore potassium channels’ (K2P). Purinergic agonists including dATP, but not ADP, activated the delayed K+current, indicating that P2Y11is the likely receptor involved in its activation. The PKC activator phorbol ester 12,13‐didecanoate stimulated this current. In addition, the PKC inhibitor Gö 6850 partially inhibited it. Real‐time quantitative PCR showed that the genes encoding TASK‐1 and TASK‐2 are expressed.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that blocker cocktail‐insensitive delayed K+current in freshly dissociated aortic myocytes is probably carried by the TASK subfamily of twin‐pore channels.
MiR‐92b and miR‐9/9* Are Specifically Expressed in Brain Primary Tumors and Can Be Used to Differentiate Primary from Metastatic Brain Tumors
Authors: Nass Dvora , Rosenwald Shai , Meiri Eti , Gilad Shlomit , Tabibian‐Keissar Hilla , Schlosberg Anat , Kuker Hagit , Sion‐Vardy Netta , Tobar Ana , Kharenko Oleg , Sitbon Einat , Lithwick Yanai Gila , Elyakim Eran , Cholakh Hila , Gibori Hadas , Spector Yael , Bentwich Zvi , Barshack Iris , Rosenfeld Nitzan
Published: July 2008

A recurring challenge for brain pathologists is to diagnose whether a brain malignancy is a primary tumor or a metastasis from some other tissue. The accurate diagnosis of brain malignancies is essential for selection of proper treatment. MicroRNAs are a class of small non‐coding RNA species that regulate gene expression; many exhibit tissue‐specific expression and are misregulated in cancer. Using microRNA expression profiling, we found that hsa‐miR‐92b and hsa‐miR‐9/hsa‐miR‐9* are over‐expressed, specifically in brain primary tumors, as compared to primary tumors from other tissues and their metastases to the brain. By considering the expression of only these two microRNAs, it is possible to distinguish between primary and metastatic brain tumors with very high accuracy. These microRNAs thus represent excellent biomarkers for brain primary tumors. Previous reports have found that hsa‐miR‐92b and hsa‐miR‐9/hsa‐miR‐9* are expressed more strongly in developing neurons and brain than in adult brain. Thus, their specific over‐expression in brain primary tumors supports a functional role for these microRNAs or a link between neuronal stem cells and brain tumorigenesis.
Detergent‐Insoluble EAAC1/EAAT3 Aberrantly Accumulates in Hippocampal Neurons of Alzheimer's Disease Patients
Authors: Duerson Kevin , Woltjer Randall L. , Mookherjee Paramita , Leverenz James B. , Montine Thomas J. , Bird Thomas D. , Pow David V. , Rauen Thomas , Cook David G.
Published: July 2008

Disturbed glutamate homeostasis may contribute to the pathological processes involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Once glutamate is released from synapses or from other intracellular sources, it is rapidly cleared by glutamate transporters. EAAC1 (also called EAAT3 or SLC1A1) is the primary glutamate transporter in forebrain neurons. In addition to transporting glutamate, EAAC1 plays other roles in regulating GABA synthesis, reducing oxidative stress in neurons, and is important in supporting neuron viability. Currently, little is known about EAAC1 in AD. To address whether EAAC1 is disturbed in AD, immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue from hippocampus and frontal cortex of AD and normal control subjects matched for age and gender. While EAAC1 immunostaining in cortex appeared comparable to controls, in the hippocampus, EAAC1 aberrantly accumulated in the cell bodies and proximal neuritic processes of CA2‐CA3 pyramidal neurons in AD patients. Biochemical analyses showed that Triton X‐100‐insoluble EAAC1 was significantly increased in the hippocampus of AD patients compared to both controls and Parkinson's disease patients. These findings suggest that aberrant glutamate transporter expression is associated with AD‐related neuropathology and that intracellular accumulation of detergent‐insoluble EAAC1 is a feature of the complex biochemical lesions in AD that include altered protein solubility.
Expression level of lipoprotein lipase in Chinese patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and its correlation with other prognostic factors
Authors: XU W. , LI J.‐Y. , SHEN Q.‐D. , WU Y.‐J. , YU H. , FAN L.
Published: July 2008

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common adult form of leukemia in the Western world, however, infrequent in the Eastern. It shows a remarkable heterogeneity, with some patients having an almost normal lifespan, others surviving only several years after diagnosis despite intensive therapy. To investigate lipoprotein lipase (LPL) expression level in Chinese patients with CLL and its correlation with other prognostic factors, including immunoglobulin heavy‐chain variable region (IgVH) mutation status, Binet stages, ZAP‐70 protein and CD38 expression level, semiquantitative RT‐PCR was used to detect LPL expression in peripheral blood samples of 58 Chinese patients with CLL. LPL expression level was significantly correlated with IgVH mutational status (r = 0.348, P = 0.010), Binet stages (r = 0.276, P = 0.036), ZAP‐70 protein (r = 0.431, P = 0.001) and CD38 (r = 0.546, P < 0.001). Patients with unmutated IgVH genes had higher expression of LPL than patients with IgVH mutations. The higher expression level of LPL was also associated with higher level of ZAP‐70 and CD38, and more aggressive Binet stage. We also analyzed LPL expression in different cytogenetic subgroups. Higher LPL level was found in patients with unfavorable cytogenetic aberrations (deletion in 17p13 or 11q22) in contrast to lower level in good risk cytogenetics (deletion in 13q as the sole abnormality) (r = 0.404, P = 0.002). It was showed that LPL expression correlates with IgVH mutational status and other clinical or laboratory prognostic factors, and might be applied for the assessment of prognosis in patients with CLL.
Relationship Between Depression and Specific Health Indicators Among Hypertensive African American Parents and Grandparents
Authors: Taylor Jacquelyn Y. , Washington Olivia G. M. , Artinian Nancy T. , Lichtenberg Peter
Published: July 2008

African Americans are at greater risk for hypertension than are other ethnic groups. This study examined relationships among hypertension, stress, and depression among 120 urban African American parents and grandparents. This study is a secondary analysis of a larger nurse‐managed randomized clinical trial testing the effectiveness of a telemonitoring intervention. Baseline data used in analyses, with the exception of medication compliance, were collected at 3 months' follow‐up. Health indicators, perceived stress, and social support were examined to determine their relationship with depressive symptoms. A total of 48% of the variance in depressive symptomology was explained by perceived stress and support. Health indicators including average systolic blood pressure explained 21% of the variance in depressive symptomology. The regression analysis using average diastolic blood pressure explained 26% of the variance in depressive symptomology. Based on study results, African Americans should be assessed for perceived stress and social support to alleviate depressive symptomology.
After the flood: the health and social consequences of the 2005 Carlisle flood event
Authors: Convery I. , Bailey C.
Published: July 2008

In this paper we consider the health and social impacts of the flooding caused to a number of Carlisle households following the January 2005 floods and storms. In so doing we consider such impacts from a ‘lived, local experience’ perspective. We reflect on the need for both informal support and locally accessible and ongoing, post‐flood information and support centres. Such centres can provide one point of contact for potentially multiple, emotional and practical problems. Crucially we suggest that these centres require both strong multipartnership and multi‐agency working and highly skilled support centre personnel who have local knowledge and understanding of the affected community. In this way, postdisaster local needs may be contextualized and responded to in a way that both draws on existing local knowledge and expertise and further strengthens long‐term community‐based support.
Risk trading in trans‐boundary flood management: case study of the Dutch and German Rhine
Authors: Chang C.‐T. , Leentvaar J.
Published: July 2008

This paper explores the potential of applying a newly developed risk trading system, the so‐called ‘tradeable flood mitigation permit’, to international flood management. Trading, aimed at complementing binding agreements or regulations, offers a new approach to transnational collaboration. A case study on the Dutch and German River Rhine is presented. The principle of internalising externalities using direct financial means is applied. The expected result is a higher level of river basin management in the upstream area, with financial resources coming from downstream. Specific institutional conditions, at both national and international levels, are identified in order to facilitate the establishment of the transactions.
Dental Discomfort Questionnaire: its use with children with a learning disability
Authors: Versloot Judith , Hall‐Scullin Emma , Veerkamp Jaap S.J. , Freeman Ruth
Published: July 2008

This study investigated whether the behaviors from the Dental Discomfort Questionnaire (DDQ) could help identify toothaches in children with a learning disability, who have a limited capacity to self‐report. The objectives were to examine whether the behaviors from the DDQ occur more often in children with a learning disability who have caries and a toothache than in children who do not have caries and a toothache; and secondly, to examine whether two additional items increase the specificity and sensitivity of the DDQ to recognize a toothache, in this particular population of children with a learning disability.

The DDQ was completed by a convenience sample of 58 parents on behalf of their children: 31% girls, aged between 6 and 13 years (mean = 7.5, SD = 2.7).

Of the total group, 26% (n = 15) suffered from a toothache and 43% (n = 25) had carious teeth. Children with caries and a toothache had a significantly higher mean DDQ score and displayed more toothache‐related behaviors (e.g., problems with chewing, problems with brushing teeth) than children without caries or toothache.

The DDQ seems to be a functional and easy‐to‐use instrument to alert parents to the presence of a toothache in this specific group of children with a learning disability.