bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PERFORMANCE OF PETRIFILM AEROBIC COUNT PLATES ON ENUMERATION OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA IN FERMENTED MILKS
Authors: NERO LUÍS AUGUSTO , DE ANDRADE RODRIGUES LÍVIA , VIÇOSA GABRIELA NOGUEIRA , ORTOLANI MARIA BEATRIZ TASSINARI
Published: June 2008

This study aimed to compare Petrifilm Aerobic Count (AC) plates and the conventional pour plate methodology using the de Man–Rogosa–Sharpe (MRS) agar for the enumeration of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in fermented milks (FMs), with different starter cultures added. FM samples (n = 66) were collected and plated on both methodologies, with incubation under anaerobic conditions at 35C for 48 h. The count results were compared by analysis of variance (P ≤ 0.05) and regression analysis. No differences between the mean counts obtained by both methodologies were observed, even when distinct FMs were compared. Considering all samples, a high correlation level was obtained between Petrifilm AC and MRS agar (r = 0.92), but these indexes were lower in FMs with Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (r = 0.90) and Lactobacillus fortis (r = 0.81). Despite some slight interferences, Petrifilm AC has proven to be a convenient methodology on enumerating LAB in FM.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study focused on the evaluation of an important tool for monitoring the microbiologic quality in the food industry. Petrifilm plates are widely used in the food industry, and their application for several microorganisms groups and foods must be properly evaluated for convenient application. Petrifilm Aerobic Count (AC) plates, associated to the de Man–Rogosa–Sharpe broth, were already described as adequate for the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) enumeration in foods. However, A previous study was conducted only with experimental inoculation of LAB in sterile milk and naturally occurring LAB in raw milk (Nero et al. 2006). This article is a complement of the first one, and we show the convenience of Petrifilm AC plates on LAB enumeration in fermented milks, considering different types of LAB starter cultures on the performance of this methodology.
MONITORING CHANGES IN GERMINATION AND PERMEABILITY OF BACILLUS CEREUS ENDOSPORES FOLLOWING CHEMICAL, HEAT AND ENZYMATIC TREATMENTS USING FLOW CYTOMETRY
Authors: CRONIN ULTAN P. , WILKINSON MARTIN G.
Published: June 2008

The germination inhibition of Bacillus cereus endospores and the removal of various structural components were undertaken using a number of standard treatments. Concomitantly, the changes in the entry and retention of the fluorescent nucleic acid dyes, SYTO 9, propidium iodide (PI) or Hoechst 33342, or hydrolysis of carboxyfluorescein diacetate (CFDA), were analyzed using flow cytometry (FCM) and epifluorescence microscopy. SYTO 9 and PI staining followed by FCM analysis detected six discrete subpopulations of endospores across all treatments, while CFDA/Hoechst 33342 staining allowed the identification of subpopulations of permeabilized endospores possessing intracellular esterase activity. Differential permeability to PI and Hoechst 33342 as revealed using FCM appeared related to the germination stage and the absence of specific structural components. Additionally, endospores halted at specific points during germination had characteristic FCM fluorescence profiles. This study highlighted the potential of FCM as a useful technique for rapidly studying endospore germination and structural alterations following treatment with sporistatic/sporicidal physicochemical treatments.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The flow cytometry methods described in this report could be used to differentiate between endospores halted at various stages of germination, e.g., those that have lost dipicolinic acid only versus those that have also begun to degrade their cortex. Furthermore, the methods could simultaneously supply information on the mechanism of action of germination inhibitors and whether or not enzyme activity (nonspecific intracellular esterase) was present in treated endospores. The method also allows the discrimination between endospores with a specific structural component removed, e.g., endospores lacking coat (highly propidium iodide [PI] permeable) versus intact endospores (impermeable to PI). An extension of this methodology would be the quantification of the percentage of endospores exhibiting structural damage, e.g., damage to the exosporium, following treatment with sporistatic/sporicidal physicochemical treatments. Indeed, using these methods, the direct examination of food, environmental or clinical samples to rapidly evaluate the viability/structural integrity of contaminating endospores is possible.
ASSESSMENT OF CONVENTIONAL DETECTION METHOD, IMMUNOANALYSIS AND POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION FOR SALMONELLA SPP. MONITORING IN CHICKEN
Authors: VON RÜCKERT DIMITRI ALEKSANDER SALDANHA , DE ARRUDA PINTO PAULO SÉRGIO , VANETTI MARIA CRISTINA DANTAS , MORAES MAURO PIRES , JUNIOR ABELARDO SILVA , NERO LUÍS AUGUSTO
Published: June 2008

Three Salmonella spp. detection methodologies were evaluated in superficial chicken carcasses samples collected in a poultry slaughter. One hundred thirty‐five were tested by conventional isolation procedure, 70 by immunoanalysis and 90 by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The frequency of Salmonella spp. isolation among the methodologies was evaluated considering their applicability as monitoring tools for quality control programs, like the hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP). The immunoanalysis and PCR methods showed significant differences from the conventional isolation procedure (qui‐square = 18.51; gl = 2; P < 0.0001), and they presented higher frequencies of positive results. Besides being more sensitive and specific, immunoanalysis and PCR were faster and more practical in Salmonella spp. monitoring. These characteristics make these alternative techniques more suitable as monitoring tools for quality control programs as HACCP.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Salmonella spp. detection in chicken during the slaughter is fundamental to assure microbiological safety, a worldwide concern. The chicken slaughter process must be conducted in order to avoid the contamination of the carcasses, resulting in food with low levels of microbial contamination, including pathogens as Salmonella spp. This paper shows the adequacy of three methodologies for this purpose (the conventional isolation and two alternative methodologies, VIDAS and polymerase chain reaction [PCR]), so as to identify the advantages and disadvantages of each one. Considering the results, it is possible to identify which one is more convenient for proper Salmonella spp. monitoring in distinct slaughterhouses. In addition, the obtained results allow the observation of the most efficient tested methodologies which showed more sensitivity and specificity, leading their application in food industries, scientific researches and official inspection services.
TRAINING, VALIDATION AND MAINTENANCE OF A PANEL TO EVALUATE THE TEXTURE OF DRY BEANS (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L.)
Authors: ROMERO DEL CASTILLO R. , VALERO J. , CASAÑAS F. , COSTELL E.
Published: June 2008

The inclusion of dry beans in diets has clear health benefits. However, consumers in developed countries mainly choose beans for their sensory qualities, especially for their texture. This article describes the constitution, training and validation of a panel of judges to evaluate the texture of dry beans. The judges were trained in the perception of different textures, analyzed a wide range of beans and selected seed‐coat roughness, seed‐coat perceptibility and creaminess/mealiness of the cotyledon as the main attributes to be scored. After training, the panel was capable of discriminating between different varieties of beans and even between beans of the same variety grown at different locations. The analysis of the behavior of the panel in a standard tasting session 2 years after its formation showed that periodic inclusion of samples from the extremes of the scales for the attributes during tasting sessions was sufficient to keep the panel trained.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This article could serve as a guide for the training of sensory panels to evaluate the texture of dry beans. It describes the selection of the attributes on which the analysis is based, references for the extreme values of the attributes and how to train the panel. It also provides a practical example of the analysis of the behavior of the panel some time after training.
PSYCHOLOGIC DIMENSIONS IN THE PERCEPTION OF EVERYDAY ODORS: PLEASANTNESS AND EDIBILITY
Authors: ZARZO MANUEL
Published: June 2008

Different studies have reported that when a wide range of odors are assessed at a similar odor intensity, the hedonic dimension (pleasantness) is the most salient. Multivariate statistical methods can be applied to odor profile databases in order to further understand other underlying dimensions in the psychologic perception of everyday smells. One of the few odor profile databases published in the literature using odorant samples representative of ordinary odors was obtained by Chrea and coworkers (2005) . In the present study, this data set was reanalyzed using principal component analysis. The first component was related with the hedonic dimension, while the second component discriminated food versus nonfood odors. These results suggest that ordinary smells could be classified according to their hedonic and edible character, which is of interest to provide some consensus in odor classification as well as to develop low‐dimensional odor maps.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Different classification schemes of ordinary odors have been proposed in the literature, but none of them is based on the psychologic dimensions of odor perception, which is the proposal of this study. In a reported research, a panel of about 120 subjects rated the hedonic tone of 146 odor descriptors on a numeric scale. Similarly, if a panel is asked to rate the hedonic as well as the edible character of a large set of odors, the results would allow the classification of odor descriptors according to both psychologic dimensions. A scatter plot of these ratings might be regarded as a two‐dimensional map of ordinary odors. The same idea could be extended to other relevant dimensions of olfactory perception space, which might provide the basis to develop low‐dimensional odor maps, as well as to achieve certain consensus in odor classification.
FRESH‐CUT ANNURCA APPLES: ACCEPTABILITY STUDY AND SHELF‐LIFE DETERMINATION
Authors: TORRIERI E. , DI MONACO R. , CAVELLA S. , MASI P.
Published: June 2008

To establish the likelihood of purchase and acceptability level of new fresh‐cut apples, the responses of two categories of consumers, children and adults, were evaluated. The effect of storage time on acceptability was investigated and the shelf life of fresh‐cut apples was determined by using a Weibull hazard model.

The samples were distributed at different storage time (from second to fifth day) at the Science Museum of Naples as part of an educational program for children to evaluate the likelihood of buying and the acceptability level of the product. The data were collected over 5 weeks, and the test was performed in 2,421 children and 224 adults. The product was distributed at the University of Naples at different storage time (time 0 to 10 days) to perform the Weibull test using 63 consumers.

The adults and children appreciated the product, and the adults were generally willing to buy it. The Weibull analysis proved an appropriate method to evaluate product shelf life, which was estimated at 7.5 days at 4C.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study contributes to enhance the competitiveness of a traditional food as Protected Geographical Indication Annurca apples. In fact, an attractive way to improve the consumption of this variety of apple is to market it as a ready‐to‐eat product. Also, the research allows for a better understanding of the children's acceptability level of new fresh‐cut apples in order to improve the intake of apples among primary schoolchildren. In fact, an interesting way to increase the children's consumption of fruit is to distribute it at school level and also to increase the convenience for children. Finally, the fact that the product was distributed to the Science Museum of Naples can be considered as a premarket test for a new product launch.
EFFECT OF SERVING TEMPERATURE ON THE SENSORY ATTRIBUTES OF RED AND WHITE WINES
Authors: ROSS CAROLYN F. , WELLER KAREN
Published: June 2008

Convention dictates that red wines should be served around room temperature and white wines should be served chilled. The objective of this study was to determine the sensory impact of white wine serving temperature (4, 10 and 18C) and red wine serving temperature (14, 18 and 23C) on wine sensory attributes. A trained panel evaluated a series of adjusted model wines served at different serving temperatures. The control white wine was adjusted to enhance sweetness and acidity, while the control red wine was adjusted to enhance bitterness and astringency. For both wines, the adjusted wine was rated significantly higher on the enhanced sensory attribute compared with the unaltered control. In white wine, serving temperature significantly affected perceived aroma, with sweetness and acidity intensities impacted by the interaction between the panelist and temperature (P ≤ 0.05). In red wine, serving temperature significantly affected aroma intensity. These results indicate that the sensory attributes of white wines may be more influenced by serving temperature than red wines.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The temperature at which wine is served is thought to affect the intensity of the different sensory attributes in wine. Depending on whether the wine is white or red, different taste and mouthfeel attributes are of interest. In white wine, the typically cooler serving temperature is thought to suppress sweetness while enhancing acidity. Serving red wine close to room temperature is thought to enhance wine aroma while diminishing perceived bitterness and astringency typically associated with red wine. While these relationships have been suggested, there is little scientific published research describing the effect of serving temperature on the perception of different wine attributes. With increased understanding of the relationship between temperature and sensory properties, recommendations for serving temperature ranges could possibly be built. The objective of this study was the examination of the sensory impact of white wine serving temperature (4, 10 and 18C) and red wine serving temperature (14, 18 and 23C) on salient wine sensory attributes.
Case study: the performance and design outline of a buffering stormwater drainage system for a low‐lying area
Authors: Zhou Yongchao , Li Tian
Published: June 2008

Performance evaluation and safety assessment of a buffering stormwater drainage system (BSDS) for a low‐lying area are discussed in this paper. Unlike a conventional pump drainage system, the BSDS, which drains stormwater runoff of a low‐lying area to a nearby channel system through underground conduits with gravity, and then buffering peak flows with the storage capacity of a channel system, will discharge stormwater to rivers outside the low‐lying area with pumps or flood gates if necessary. This kind of drainage system is considered to be environment friendly and economic both in terms of capital cost and operating & maintenance expenses. To investigate the design parameters and evaluate the performance and safety of BSDS, a hydraulic model coupling the conduit systems and a channel system was developed in this paper, and a case‐study approach based on field investigation and simulation test was used. Moreover, the design requirements for safety of BSDS were drawn through a simulation test.
Object Perception: Vision and Audition
Authors: O’Callaghan Casey
Published: June 2008

Vision has been the primary focus of naturalistic philosophical research concerning perception and perceptual experience. Guided by visual experience and vision science, many philosophers have focused upon theoretical issues dealing with the perception of objects. Recently, however, hearing researchers have discussed auditory objects. I present the case for object perception in vision, and argue that an analog of object perception occurs in auditory perception. I propose a notion of an auditory object that is stronger than just that of an intentional object of audition, but that does not identify auditory objects with the ordinary material objects we see.
Incidental Findings and Ancillary-Care Obligations
Authors: Richardson Henry S.
Published: June 2008

This paper explores the convergence of two recent and growing streams of bioethical work and concern. Each has originated independently, but each arises from the fact that the Common Rule that has shaped medical research ethics, as institutionalized in the United States and also abroad, is largely silent about what needs to be done in response to researchers’ positive obligations. One stream concerns what to do about the sometimes vast range of findings that may arise incidentally to performing research procedures. The other asks whether medical researchers owe their study participants any “ancillary care” — that is, medical care that their study participants need but that goes beyond what is required to do the science safely.
Incidental Findings in Human Subjects Research: What Do Investigators Owe Research Participants?
Authors: Miller Franklin G. , Mello Michelle M. , Joffe Steven
Published: June 2008

A physician-investigator conducting brain imaging research to study the pathophysiology of depression detects a suspicious finding in a healthy volunteer that suggests a possible brain tumor. Must the investigator disclose this finding to the research subject? Further, is there a duty to ensure that brain scans performed to answer research questions are evaluated clinically to identify potential health problems? If so, what in the nature of the investigator-subject relationship gives rise to such an obligation?

Investigators and Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) commonly struggle with the question of how to address incidental findings — that is, “a finding concerning an individual research participant that has potential health or reproductive importance and is discovered in the course of conducting research but is beyond the aims of the study.” A working group convened by the National Institutes of Health has recommended that brain imaging research studies should establish protocols for handling incidental findings. However, there is little ethical guidance available to steer such efforts, and practices appear to vary widely. Although several articles have catalogued the ethical dilemmas surrounding incidental findings, with the exception of seminal work by Henry Richardson and Leah Belsky on the more general topic of researchers’ obligations to provide ancillary clinical care to research subjects, systematic ethical analysis of the incidental findings problem is lacking.
Understanding Incidental Findings in the Context of Genetics and Genomics
Authors: Cho Mildred K.
Published: June 2008

Human genetic and genomic research can yield information that may be of clinical relevance to the individuals who participate as subjects of the research. However, no consensus exists as yet on the responsibilities of researchers to disclose individual research results to participants in human subjects research. “Genetic and genomic research” on humans varies widely, including association studies, examination of allele frequencies, and studies of natural selection, human migration, and genetic variation. For the purposes of this article, it is defined broadly to include analysis of DNA collected from humans that has implications for human health (even if the purpose of the study is not medical). This paper addresses both research results of individual research participants that may be an intended product of the research, as well as unanticipated, “incidental” findings.
Incidental Findings in Genetics Research Using Archived DNA
Authors: Clayton Ellen Wright
Published: June 2008

There are countless variations on this theme. The call can come from one of your own physicians who was called by the investigator. Your physician may or may not be well informed on what the reported finding about Disease Y means or how to respond. DNA testing can reveal more than susceptibility to disease. People can learn that they do not have the biological connections — parentage or evidence of ethnic origin — that they thought they did.

Colleagues who serve on the Institutional Review Board (IRB) in my institution tell me that they currently do not permit “cold calls” of the type portrayed in the opening paragraph. Such direct contacts have, however, occurred in the past, with or without the blessing of an IRB. Sharing findings with the individual’s physician, who is then supposed to serve as a learned and wise intermediary, is not without problems either, given that many physicians understand little about complex genetics. Yet the very existence of this project on managing incidental findings in research demonstrates that some people believe that some research findings ought to be available to participants.
Incidental Findings in CT Colonography: Literature Review and Survey of Current Research Practice
Authors: Siddiki Hassan , Fletcher J. G. , McFarland Beth , Dajani Nora , Orme Nicholas , Koenig Barbara , Strobel Marguerite , Wolf Susan M.
Published: June 2008

Just over ten years ago, the first human trials of virtual colonoscopy, or computed tomography (CT) colonography, were performed. CT colonography (CTC), as it is now called, is a low radiation dose CT examination of the abdomen and pelvis following bowel purgation cleansing and insuflation (inflation) of the colon and rectum. High spatial resolution CT datasets of the abdomen and pelvis are obtained while the patient is lying in the prone and supine positions, with the entire procedure lasting about ten minutes. The resulting images are interactively reviewed on a dedicated computer workstation using 2D multiplanar images and 3D endoluminal displays of the colon. Over the past decade, rapid technological advancements in image acquisition, 3D display techniques, colonic insuflation, and stool tagging (i.e., labeling of stool with ingested radio-opaque contrast) have occurred, which have greatly improved the ability of CT colonography to detect colorectal polyps and cancer.
Incidental Findings in Pediatric Research
Authors: Wilfond Benjamin S. , Carpenter Katherine J.
Published: June 2008

Incidental research findings, as defined in this symposium’s consensus paper, are unexpected findings discovered in the course of research but “beyond the aims of the study.” These include findings generated by research methodology, such as imaging or genetic analysis, findings related to clinical screening for inclusion or exclusion, or direct observations of physical abnormalities or behavior. Decisions about managing incidental research findings involve important ethical considerations regarding a researcher’s obligations to provide care, minimize harms, and respect research participants’ wishes. When the research participant is a child, the triadic relationship between the researcher, child participant, and parent makes these considerations more complicated. (See Figure 1.)
Research Malpractice and the Issue of Incidental Findings
Authors: Milstein Alan C.
Published: June 2008

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional MRI (fMRI) are important tools for neuroscience research because of their capability for investigating both the structure and function of the brain. The fMRI image extends traditional anatomical imaging of the MRI to include maps of human brain function. The ability to observe brain function opens an array of opportunities to research brain organization, neurological status, and neurosurgical risk. Neurological research is, thus, burgeoning. For example, Columbia University currently has several ongoing protocols investigating fMRI’s future role in neurosurgical planning, pain management, and understanding the physiological basis for neurological disorders as well as cognitive and perceptual events. One can imagine research proposals, both important and trivial, on such topics as whether brain imaging can shed light on the nature of dreams, memory, speech development, love, anger, or addiction.
Reactions of Potential Jurors to a Hypothetical Malpractice Suit Alleging Failure to Perform a Prostate-Specific Antigen Test
Authors: Barry Michael J. , Wescott Pamela H. , Reifler Ellen J. , Chang Yuchaio , Moulton Benjamin W.
Published: June 2008

Screening for prostate cancer with the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is controversial, as evidence to date has not demonstrated such screening does more good than harm. While the potential benefit of PSA screening on reducing prostate cancer mortality has not been documented in randomized trials, many risks of PSA screening have been well documented. These risks include a substantially higher risk of a prostate cancer diagnosis over a screenee’s lifetime, false-positive and false-negative test results, possible complications from biopsies done in response to suspicious test results, and substantial risks of side effects from subsequent prostate cancer treatments. Nevertheless, PSA screening is widespread in the United States, and many physicians in a national survey reported supporting routine PSA screening as well as getting PSA tests themselves, despite the lack of evidence.
Preemption of Local Smoke-Free Air Ordinances: The Implications of Judicial Opinions for Meeting National Health Objectives
Authors: O'Connor Jean C. , MacNeil Allison , Chriqui Jamie F. , Tynan Michael , Bates Hannalori , Eidson Shelby K. S.
Published: June 2008

Despite governmental and private antismoking initiatives, tobacco smoking remains a significant public health and economic challenge. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that for each year between 1997 and 2001, cigarette smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke caused approximately 438,000 U.S. residents to die prematurely, resulting in 5.5 million years of potential life lost, and in $92 billion dollars of lost productivity. Also, despite convincing scientific data that laws against indoor smoking protect people from the negative health effects of cigarette smoke, not all states have afforded their residents this protection. As of July 2007, 16 states neither restricted nor banned indoor smoking in restaurants, private worksites, or government worksites, and many state statutes only required separate rooms for smokers rather than eliminating all smoking inside buildings. In several states, local governments have attempted to fill this gap by adopting their own antismoking measures.
Reviews in Medical Ethics
Authors: Iltis Ana S.
Published: June 2008

What the Doctor Didn’t Say, by Jerry Menikoff and Edward P. Richards, is a courageous and well-written volume that examines some of the fundamental debates pertaining to the ethics of clinical research. The volume deserves a careful reading by anyone with a potential role in clinical research: clinicians who might serve as investigators or refer patients to clinical trials; research staff; Institutional Review Board (IRB) members and administrators; sponsors who design clinical trials; and the book’s intended audience, namely, potential research participants and their families. A cursory reading of this volume might lead one to think that Menikoff and Richards have declared war on clinical research. They have not. Instead, they offer an in-depth study of the conduct and oversight of clinical research through the lens of law and ethics. They shed light on old issues and initiate discussion of new questions, challenging readers to think critically about the relationship between medical ethics, research ethics, the law, and the conduct of clinical research.
Effect of High Hydrostatic Pressure on Cashew Apple (Anacardium occidentale L.) Juice Preservation
Authors: Lavinas F.C. , Miguel M.A.L. , Lopes M.L.M. , Valente Mesquita V.L.
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT:  High hydrostatic pressure is an alternative to thermal processing to inactivate spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Cashew apple juice has a pleasant flavor and is rich in vitamin C. Studies to determine the effect of high pressure on microorganisms in cashew apple juice are still lacking. In this study, the inactivation of natural micropopulation and inoculated Escherichia coli by high pressure was evaluated in fresh cashew apple juice. The microbiological stability of pressure‐treated juice was also evaluated. The applied high pressure levels ranged from 250 to 400 MPa for periods of 3 to 7 min. Treatments with 350 MPa for 7 min and 400 MPa for either 3 or 7 min reduced the aerobic mesophilic bacteria count to a level below the detection limit. Pressure treatments were also efficient in inactivating yeast and filamentous fungi. The inoculated E. coli (106 CFU/mL) was reduced to below 10 CFU/mL after a pressure treatment of 400 MPa for 3 min. The inactivation of this microorganism followed a 1st‐order reaction kinetics. The decimal reduction time (D‐value) ranged from 1.21 to 16.43 min, while pressure resistance value (z‐value) was 123.46 MPa. Neither natural micropopulation growth nor E. coli repair was observed in postprocessed (400 MPa for 3 min) cashew apple juice kept under refrigerated storage (at 4 °C) during 8 wk. The results of this study demonstrated the efficacy of high‐pressure treatment for preserving cashew apple juice.
Efficacy of FIT Produce Wash and Chlorine Dioxide on Pathogen Control in Fresh Potatoes
Authors: Park E.‐J. , Gray P.M. , Oh S.‐W. , Kronenberg J. , Kang D.‐H.
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT:  A commercial fresh pack potato operation was used as a model to evaluate FIT fruit and vegetable wash effectiveness in reducing levels of microorganisms on potatoes and in flume water. Fresh potatoes were washed in flume water with or without FIT, or treated with a spray bar utilizing either FIT, 9 ppm chlorine dioxide (ClO2), or a water control. Both flume treatments were also evaluated for APC and Gram‐negatives. There were no significant differences in reduction of these microorganisms on treated or control potatoes. However, levels of Gram‐negative bacteria in FIT‐amended flume water were reduced by 5.95 log CFU/g, and the APC was reduced by 1.43 log CFU/g. To validate plant trial findings, this test was repeated using solutions of sterile potato flume water from the fresh pack operation, containing a typical level of dissolved and suspended solids. Treatment solutions prepared with flume water or deionized water containing FIT, 9 ppm ClO2, or a water control were inoculated with E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium, or Pectobacterium carotovorum ssp. carotovorum. FIT and ClO2 prepared with deionized water reduced levels of microorganisms by >6.1 to 6.6 log CFU/g to below the detection limit. FIT prepared with flume water reduced levels of all organisms by >6.0 to 6.4 log CFU/g to below the detection limit, whereas ClO2 prepared from flume water reduced bacterial levels of all organisms by only 0.7 to 1.4 log CFU/g. Neither FIT nor ClO2 was particularly efficacious against E. coli O157:H7, S. Typhimurium, APC, yeasts, or molds on potato surfaces.
How well can captive breeding programs conserve biodiversity? A review of salmonids
Authors: Fraser Dylan J.
Published: June 2008

Captive breeding programs are increasingly being initiated to prevent the imminent extinction of endangered species and/or populations. But how well can they conserve genetic diversity and fitness, or re‐establish self‐sustaining populations in the wild? A review of these complex questions and related issues in salmonid fishes reveals several insights and uncertainties. Most programs can maintain genetic diversity within populations over several generations, but available research suggests the loss of fitness in captivity can be rapid, its magnitude probably increasing with the duration in captivity. Over the long‐term, there is likely tremendous variation between (i) programs in their capacity to maintain genetic diversity and fitness, and (ii) species or even intraspecific life‐history types in both the severity and manner of fitness‐costs accrued. Encouragingly, many new theoretical and methodological approaches now exist for current and future programs to potentially reduce these effects. Nevertheless, an unavoidable trade‐off exists between conserving genetic diversity and fitness in certain instances, such as when captive‐bred individuals are temporarily released into the wild. Owing to several confounding factors, there is also currently little evidence that captive‐bred lines of salmonids can or cannot be reintroduced as self‐sustaining populations. Most notably, the root causes of salmonid declines have not been mitigated where captive breeding programs exist. Little research has also addressed under what conditions an increase in population abundance due to captive‐rearing might offset fitness reductions induced in captivity. Finally, more empirical investigation is needed to evaluate the genetic/fitness benefits and risks associated with (i) maintaining captive broodstocks as either single or multiple populations within one or more facilities, (ii) utilizing cryopreservation or surrogate broodstock technologies, and (iii) adopting other alternatives to captive‐rearing such as translocations to new habitats. Management recommendations surrounding these issues are proposed, with the aim of facilitating meta‐analyses and more general principles or guidelines for captive‐breeding. These include the need for the following: (i) captive monitoring to involve,a priori, greater application of hypothesis testing through the use of well‐designed experiments and (ii) improved documentation of procedures adopted by specific programs for reducing the loss of genetic diversity and fitness.
Mixed evidence for reduced local adaptation in wild salmon resulting from interbreeding with escaped farmed salmon: complexities in hybrid fitness
Authors: Fraser Dylan J. , Cook Adam M. , Eddington James D. , Bentzen Paul , Hutchings Jeffrey A.
Published: June 2008

Interbreeding between artificially‐selected and wild organisms can have negative fitness consequences for the latter. In the Northwest Atlantic, farmed Atlantic salmon recurrently escape into the wild and enter rivers where small, declining populations of wild salmon breed. Most farmed salmon in the region derive from an ancestral source population that occupies a nonacidified river (pH 6.0–6.5). Yet many wild populations with which escaped farmed salmon might interbreed inhabit acidified rivers (pH 4.6–5.2). Using common garden experimentation, and examining two early‐life history stages across two generations of interbreeding, we showed that wild salmon populations inhabiting acidified rivers had higher survival at acidified pH than farmed salmon or F1 farmed‐wild hybrids. In contrast, however, there was limited evidence for reduced performance in backcrosses, and F2 farmed‐wild hybrids performed better or equally well to wild salmon. Wild salmon also survived or grew better at nonacidified than acidified pH, and wild and farmed salmon survived equally well at nonacidified pH. Thus, for acid tolerance and the stages examined, we found some evidence both for and against the theory that repeated farmed‐wild interbreeding may reduce adaptive genetic variation in the wild and thereby negatively affect the persistence of depleted wild populations.
Atopic sensitization to common allergens without symptoms or signs of airway disorders does not increase exhaled nitric oxide
Authors: Rouhos Annamari , Kainu Annette , Karjalainen Jouko , Lindqvist Ari , Piirilä Päivi , Sarna Seppo , Haahtela Tari , Sovijärvi Anssi R. A.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Elevated fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) associates positively with symptomatic atopy among asthmatics and in the general population. It is, however, unclear whether sensitization to common allergens per se– as verified with positive skin prick tests – affects FENO in healthy individuals.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to examine the association between FENO and sensitization to common allergens in healthy nonsmoking adults with no signs or symptoms of airway disorders.

Methods:  FENO measurements (flow rate: 50 mL/s), skin prick tests to common inhalant allergens, structured interviews, spirometry, bronchodilatation tests and bronchial histamine challenges were performed on a randomly selected population of 248 subjects. Seventy‐three of them (29%) were nonsmoking asymptomatic adults with no history of asthma, persistent or recurrent upper or lower airway symptoms and no signs of airway disorders in the tests listed above.

Results:  FENO concentrations were similar in skin prick test positive (n = 32) and negative (n = 41) healthy subjects, with median values of 13.2 and 15.5 ppb, respectively (P = 0.304). No correlation appeared between FENO and the number of positive reactions (r = −0.138; P = 0.244), or the total sum of wheal diameters (r = −0.135; P = 0.254). The nonparametric one‐tailed 95% upper limits of FENO among skin prick positive and negative healthy nonsmoking subjects were 29 and 31 ppb, respectively.

Conclusions:  Atopic constitution defined as positive skin prick test results does not increase FENO in healthy nonsmoking adults with no signs or symptoms of airway disorders. This suggests that same reference ranges for FENO can be applied to both skin prick test positive and negative subjects.

Please cite this paper as: Rouhos A, Kainu A, Karjalainen J, Lindqvist A, Piirilä P, Sarna S, Haahtela T and Sovijärvi ARA. Atopic sensitization to common allergens without symptoms or signs of airway disorders does not increase exhaled nitric oxide. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2008; 2: 141–148.
Dental Caries of Lifetime Residents in Baixo Guandu, Brazil, Fluoridated since 1953 – A Brief Communication
Authors: Saliba Nemre Adas , Moimaz Suzely A. S. , Casotti Cézar A. , Pagliari Ana V.
Published: June 2008

Objectives: This study aimed to verify the dental caries prevalence in Baixo Guandu, the first Brazilian city to fluoridate its public water supplies; to compare the findings with the data from the national survey; and also to compare the prevalence in the 12‐year‐old age group with the data obtained before the beginning of the fluoridation. Methods: All the lifetime residents aged 5, 12, 15 to 19, and 35 to 44 years old were clinically examined (World Health Organization). Results: The means of dmft/DMFT were lower than in the Brazilian population living in fluoridated communities. The DMFT Index in 12‐year‐old residents decreased between 1953 and 2005 from 8.61 to 1.55. Conclusions: The addition of fluoride to public water supplies was an important ally in the improvement of the oral health of Baixo Guandu inhabitants.
Dental Care Visits among Dentate Adults with Diabetes, United States, 2003
Authors: Macek Mark D. , Taylor George W. , Tomar Scott L.
Published: June 2008

Objectives: Regular dental assessments are beneficial to adults with diabetes. This analysis evaluates nationally representative data to test the relation between diabetes status and dental care visits, and to compare diabetes care, foot care, eye care, and dental care visits among dentate adults with diabetes. Methods: Data from the 2003 National Health Interview Survey were used to test whether diabetes status was associated with dental care visits among dentate adults aged ≥25 years, controlling for available covariates. Results: There was a significant interaction between diabetes status and sex for the odds of having a dental care visit. Among dentate men, there was no significant association between diabetes status and dental care visits. Dentate women with diabetes were significantly less likely to have had a dental care visit than were dentate women without diabetes. Of the four types of health care visits compared, dentate adults with diabetes were least likely to have had a dental care visit in the preceding year. Disparities in health care visit rates across race/ethnicity, poverty status, and education categories were most pronounced for dental care. Conclusions: Having diabetes is associated with a variety of adverse health outcomes, including periodontitis. Adults with diabetes would benefit from regular health care visits to address these concerns, but this report shows that women with diabetes are underutilizing dental care services. The underutilization may be a result of the barriers to dental care that disproportionately affect women. Additional research should test the plausibility of these explanations and the influence of sex.
Factors Associated with Dental Caries Experience in 1‐Year‐Old Children
Authors: Warren John J. , Weber‐Gasparoni Karin , Marshall Teresa A. , Drake David R. , Dehkordi‐Vakil Farideh , Kolker Justine L. , Dawson Deborah V.
Published: June 2008

Objectives: Dental caries in early childhood is an important public health problem. Previous studies have examined risk factors, but they have focused on children during the later stages of the disease process. The purpose of this study was to assess the factors associated with caries in children aged 6 to 24 months as part of a cross‐sectional analysis. Methods: Two hundred twelve mothers with children 6 to 24 months of age were recruited from Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children clinic sites in southeastern Iowa for participation in a longitudinal study of dental caries. Baseline assessments included detailed questions regarding the children's beverage consumption, oral hygiene, and family socioeconomic status. Dental caries examinations using the d1d2‐3f criteria and semiquantitative assessments of salivary mutans streptococci (MS) levels of mother and child were also conducted. Counts of the number of teeth with visible plaque were recorded for maxillary and mandibular molars and incisors. Results: Of the 212 child/mother pairs, 187 children had teeth. Among these children, the mean age was 14 months, and 23 of the children exhibited either d1, d2‐3, or filled lesions. Presence of caries was significantly associated with older age, presence of MS in children, family income <$25,000 per year, and proportion of teeth with visible plaque. Conclusions: Results suggest that not only microbial measures, including MS and plaque levels, are closely associated with caries in very young children, but that other age‐related factors may also be associated with caries. Continued study is necessary to more fully assess the risk factors for caries prevalence and incidence in preschool children.
Use of albumin quotient and IgG index to differentiate blood‐ vs brain‐derived proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid of cats with feline infectious peritonitis
Authors: Steinberg Tanja Alexandra , Boettcher Irene Christine , Matiasek Kaspar , Hirschvogel Katrin , Hartmann Katrin , Fischer Andrea , Kuntz Anne
Published: June 2008

Background:Inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS) is a frequent condition in cats but etiology often remains unsolved. Routine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis can be extended through the calculation of the albumin quotient (Qalb), a marker of the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and IgG index, an estimate of intrathecal IgG synthesis.

Objectives:The purpose of this study was to validate nephelometric methods for CSF protein analysis, and to use theQalband IgG index to discriminate blood‐ and brain‐derived immunoglobulin fractions in cats with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

Methods:Cats presented to our clinic between 2001 and 2005 were included in the study based on clinical and laboratory data and histopathologic findings at necropsy. Cats were grouped as having nonneurologic disease (controls;n=37), brain tumors (n=8), FIP involving the CNS (n=12), and extraneural FIP (n=12). CSF‐total protein (TP) was measured and albumin and IgG concentrations were measured in paired CSF/serum samples;Qalband IgG index were calculated. Intraassay and interassay precision of the nephelometric assays were determined using pooled samples.

Results:Coefficients of variation for the nephelometric assays ranged from 2.7% to 7.2%. In control cats, CSF‐TP concentration ranged from 0.06 to 0.36 g/L,Qalbranged from 0.6 to 5.7 × 10−3, and IgG index ranged from 0.3 to 0.6.Qalband IgG index were significantly higher in cats with brain tumors and cats with CNS‐FIP compared with other groups. Compared with control cats, pleocytosis was evident in 8 of 12 (67%) cats and CSF‐TP was increased in 3 of 12 (25%) cats with CNS‐FIP.

Conclusion:Nephelometry is a reliable method for measurement of CSF protein, albumin, and IgG in cats. TheQalband IgG index did not identify a CSF protein pattern specific for BBB dysfunction or intrathecal IgG synthesis in cats with CNS‐FIP.
Cabot rings as a result of severe dyserythropoiesis in a dog
Authors: Lukaszewska Janina , Lewandowski Krzysztof
Published: June 2008

Abstract:An 11‐year‐old female Dachshund was presented with depression, diarrhea, weight loss, and radiographic evidence of masses involving the liver, spleen, and cranial lobe of the right lung. Results of a CBC included severe nonregenerative anemia (HCT 14.2%, hemoglobin, 4.3 g/dL, reticulocytes 66,000/μL) with marked metarubricytosis (nucleated RBCs 6.39 × 103/μL). Examination of the peripheral blood smear revealed marked erythroid dysplasia, including marked anisocytosis with a prevalence of macrocytes, Howell–Jolly bodies, diffuse basophilic stippling, and multinucleated and atypical nucleated RBCs. Neutrophil hypersegmentation and giant forms were also noted. Numerous erythrocytes, particularly polychromatophilic cells, contained inclusions consistent with Cabot rings, which appeared as delicate red–purple ellipsoid or figure 8 structures. Rarely, Cabot rings were observed extracellularly. The dog was treated symptomatically with blood transfusions, prednisone, erythropoietin, and vitamin supplementation, but the anemia progressively worsened. The dog was euthanized 2 months after presentation. Bone marrow aspirate and core biopsy specimens obtained at the time of euthanasia revealed marked dysplastic changes in all cell lines, especially dyserythropoiesis, along with infiltrating carcinoma cells. A necropsy was performed, and histologic examination revealed poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma of the lung with multiple metastases to the marrow, spleen, and liver. The final diagnosis was marked myelodysplasia secondary to metastatic adenocarcinoma. Cabot rings are found rarely in humans with myelodysplasia, but have not been described previously in dogs. Based on the findings in this case, Cabot rings may occur rarely in dogs with severe dyserythropoiesis.
Hematologic changes associated with Adderall toxicity in a dog
Authors: Wilcox Angela , Russell Karen E.
Published: June 2008

Abstract: A 1‐year‐old intact male Boxer was presented to the Texas Veterinary Medical Center for emergency treatment following suspected ingestion of a large number of tablets of Adderall, a pharmaceutical amphetamine. The dog had a temperature of 41.7 °C, heart rate of 192 beats per minute, and a respiratory rate of 100 breaths per minute. The dog was anxious and agitated with bilaterally dilated pupils, and shortly thereafter became recumbent and incontinent. Initial CBC results included mild leukopenia and mild thrombocytopenia. The dog was not anemic (HCT 39.9%) and had only slight polychromasia, but had 48 nucleated RBCs/100 WBC (7500/μL). Moderate numbers of neutrophils had hypersegmented nuclei and several pyknotic cells were noted. The metarubricytosis persisted for approximately 56 hours while hypersegmentation and pyknotic cells were no longer found at 8 hours after presentation. The dog received supportive care and recovered uneventfully. We hypothesized that hyperpyrexia associated with Adderall toxicity resulted in inappropriate metarubricytosis due to damaged bone marrow endothelium, and resulted in hypersegmentation and pyknosis due to damaged or accelerated aging of neutrophils in peripheral blood. Metarubricytosis has been reported previously in dogs with heat‐induced illness, such as heat stroke.