bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypertensive Choroidopathy
Authors: Bourke Karyn , Patel Milan R. , Prisant L. Michael , Marcus Dennis M.
Published: May 2007

Untreated systemic hypertension is associated with retinopathy, optic neuropathy, and choroidopathy. Hypertensive choroidopathy is less common than retinal hemorrhages and infarcts seen with accelerated hypertension. The manifestations of choroidopathy include serous retinal detachment, Elschnig spots, and Siegrist streaks. Elschnig spots are yellow demarcated lesions in the perimacular region that leak fluorescein after occlusion of the choriocapillaris. When the Elschnig spot heals, a pigment spot is left surrounded by a depigmented pale halo. Siegrist streaks are linear hyperpigment‐ed streaks over choroidal arteries. Hypertensive choroidopathy has been reported in toxemia of pregnancy, renal disease, pheochromocytoma, and malignant hypertension.
Intraindividual Blood Pressure Responses to Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibition and Angiotensin Receptor Blockade
Authors: Stergiou, MD George S. , Roussias Leonidas G. , Mountokalakis Theodore D.
Published: May 2007

This study aims to test the hypothesis that in some hypertensive subjects the blood pressure (BP) response to angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition differs from that to angiotensin receptor blockade (ARB); a responder to angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition may not respond to ARB or the opposite. A randomized, open‐label, crossover, comparative trial of lisinopril 20 mg compared with telmisartan 80 mg (5 weeks per treatment period) was conducted in 32 untreated hypertensives using 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring. Subjects were classified as “responders” and “nonresponders” using an arbitrary threshold of ambulatory BP response (≥10 mm Hg systolic or ≥5 diastolic) or the median response achieved by each drug. No difference was detected between the drugs in their effect on ambulatory BP (mean difference 1.2±7.1/0.7±5.1 mm Hg, systolic/diastolic). Significant correlations were found between the antihypertensive responses to the two drugs (r=0.77, p<0.001). Using the arbitrary response criterion, there was a difference between the drugs in the responses in 28%/13% of subjects (9/4 patients) for systolic/diastolic BP (19%/25% using the median response criterion).

These data suggest that in some hypertensive patients the BP response to angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition may fail to predict the response to ARB. It appears that there are differences in the antihypertensive action of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and ARBs that may be clinically important.
Control of Blood Pressure and Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors at Different Practice Settings: Outcomes of Care Provided to Diabetic Women Compared to Men
Authors: McFarlane Samy I. , Castro Jonathan , Kaur Jasjeet , Shin John J. , Kelling Douglas , Farag Amal , Simon Nicole , El‐Atat Fadi , Sacerdote Alan , Basta Emad , Flack John , Bakris George , Sowers James R.
Published: May 2007

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in diabetes. To determine the proportion of patients who met the American Diabetes Association guidelines for control of CVD risk factors and to assess the achievement of these guidelines in women compared with men, we conducted a cross‐sectional study of 3678 diabetic cohorts followed at seven medical centers, two Veteran Administration hospitals, three urban clinics, and two suburban clinics. Overall, 28% met the target blood pressure of <130/80 mm Hg, 48.8% achieved a goal low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol of <100 mg/dL, and 35.8% had hemoglobin A1c of <7%. Gender comparisons of 2788 diabetic patients at urban and suburban centers showed that women had a lower percentage of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dL (45.8 vs. 51.3, p<0.01) and a lower percentage of screening for retinopathy (54 vs. 60, p<0.01) and nephropathy (37 vs. 49, p<0.01). However, overall there were no gender differences in the percentage of patients who achieved a goal blood pressure <130/80 mm Hg or hemoglobin A1c <7%. Control of blood pressure and other CVD risk factors in diabetic patients was largely suboptimal, especially for diabetic women. These observations underscore the need for better strategies for control of CVD risk in the diabetic population in general, and women in particular.
Gender and Blood Pressure
Authors: Oparil Suzanne , Miller Andrew P.
Published: May 2007

The prevalence, impact, and control of hypertension differ between the sexes in the US population. In addition, pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, and menopausal hormone therapy May influence blood pressure regulation in ways that have therapeutic implications for some women. Whether gender should be a significant consideration in the choice of individual antihypertensive drugs continues to be a topic of intense interest and debate. This brief review will discuss recent findings that bear on considerations of gender in the management of hypertension, particularly among older women.
The Role of the Kidneys in Hypertension
Authors: Navar L. Gabriel
Published: May 2007

The devastating long‐term consequences of high blood pressure include stroke, heart disease, atherosclerosis, renal disease, and other end‐organ damage. From a physiologic perspective, it is not apparent why the propensity for hypertension is so widespread in the general population. Clearly, an adequate arterial pressure is essential for perfusion of the tissues to provide adequate oxygenation and nutrition to the brain and other critical organs. Although the various microcirculatory beds have the capability to adjust vascular resistance to autoregulate blood flow, systemic arterial pressure is usually maintained at levels greater than required for requisite tissue perfusion. The myriad of neurohumoral mechanisms designed to protect against decreases in systemic arterial pressure provide a reserve capacity for increased perfusion when there are increased tissue demands. The unfortunate consequence of having these powerful physiologic control mechanisms is that they may be inappropriately activated in certain circumstances or by genetically determined traits, leading to hypertension and cardiovascular injury. Evidence continues to accumulate indicating that the kidney not only is victim to hypertension‐related injury, but also contributes as a villain to the hypertensinogenic process.
Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Hypertensive Men
Authors: White William B. , Moon Timothy
Published: May 2007

As the proportion of the US population over the age of 65 continues to rise, it is likely that the number of individuals with concomitant benign prostatic hyperplasia and hypertension will also increase. To reduce morbidity and mortality, it is important to treat patients with hypertension optimally. Evidence from outcome trials suggests that α1 blockers should not be used as first‐line antihypertensive therapy. Although some clinicians previously recommended α1 blocker monotherapy for patients with both hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia, the most recent American Urologic Association and Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure guidelines recommend independent treatment with the most appropriate pharmacologic agents for each condition. When treating patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, clinicians should be aware of the potential impacts that α1 blockers may have on blood pressure and potential adverse events in patients who are normotensive as well as in patients with treated hypertension.
Comparison of a Chronotherapeutically Administered β Blocker vs. a Traditionally Administered β Blocker in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Neutel Joel M. , Rotenberg Keith
Published: May 2007

Increasing systolic blood pressure and heart rate during the early morning results in increased myocardial oxygen demand. The use of β blockers during this period may decrease cardiac workload, particularly in β‐blocker sensitive patients. The impact of a new chronotherapeutic β blocker was assessed in 44 hypertensive patients. Patients were randomized to delayed‐release propranolol (INP) dosed at 10 p.m. or to traditionally dosed propranolol (ILA) dosed at 8 a.m. for 4 weeks, following which they were switched to the alternative formulation for 4 weeks. Thirty‐four‐hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and pharmacokinetic measurements were obtained. INP and ILA resulted in significant reductions in mean 24‐hour blood pressure (−9.01‐6.9 mm Hg and −10.41‐7.7 mm Hg, respectively). The top 25% of responders to highdose propranolol (sensitive patients) were compared on each formulation. Mean trough reductions were −8.0/‐6.7 mm Hg and −7.61‐5.8 mm Hg, respectively. Mean blood pressure reductions in the β‐blocker sensitive patients (n=11) between 6 a.m. and noon were −15.2/‐11.9 mm Hg on INP and ‐8.0/‐4.6 mm Hg on ILA. Heart rate reduction was −14.1 bpm and double product reduction was −3319 in the INP patients between 6 a.m. and 12 noon compared with −10.5 and −2209 in the ILA patients. This study suggests that INP and ILA are effective once‐a‐day β blockers, but the use of delayed‐release propanolol results in a greater reduction in double product between 6 a.m. and noon in β‐blocker sensitive patients than does traditionally dosed propranolol.
Comparison of Blood Pressure Control With Amlodipine and Controlled‐Release Isradipine: An Open‐Label, Drug Substitution Study
Authors: Ganz Michael , Mokabberi Rasoul , Sica Domenic A.
Published: May 2007

An open‐label drug substitution study showed that controlled‐release isradipine (Dynacirc‐CR) can be safely substituted for amlodipine on a mg‐for‐mg basis in patients with mild‐to‐moderate hypertension. When controlled‐release isradipine was substituted for amlodipine, blood pressure was more effectively controlled, and edema rates were reduced. When subjects resumed amlodipine therapy, the previous gain in blood pressure reduction and lessening of edema vanished. The basis for this more favorable pattern of efficacy and side‐effects with controlled‐release isradipine, although mechanistically unresolved, may relate to a lesser degree of sympathetic nervous system activation.
Treating Stage 2 Hypertension
Authors: Giles Thomas D , Materson Barry J
Published: May 2007

The prevalence of hypertension increases with advancing age, due primarily to increases in systolic blood pressure. Systolic hypertension is the most common form of hypertension in individuals over 50 years of age and reflects pathologic decreases in arterial compliance. Systolic blood pressure elevation is a more important risk factor for cardiovascular disease than is diastolic blood pressure elevation. Stage 2 hypertension, defined as blood pressure ≥160/100 mm Hg, is often found in older persons, who are at highest risk for cardiovascular events. In this clinical review, hypertension experts utilize a case study to provide a paradigm for treating older patients with stage 2 hypertension.
Ethnic Differences in the Treatment and Control of Hypertension in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Riehle Jessica Flynn , Lackland Daniel T. , Okonofua Eni C. , Hendrix Katherine H. , Egan Brent M.
Published: May 2007

Among diabetic hypertensive patients, ethnic differences in blood pressure control and outcomes have been attributed in part to greater reluctance of providers to prescribe combination antihypertensive regimens to African Americans than to Caucasians. African Americans purportedly receive fewer angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and/or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which reduce target organ complications. To assess these issues, cross‐sectional data were analyzed from 19,864 diabetic hypertensives from 62 primary care clinics. Among diabetic hypertensives, African Americans (N=6230) were less likely than Caucasians (N=8041) to have blood pressure (BP) ≤130/80 mm Hg at their last clinic visit (23.1% [23.0%–23.2%] vs. 30.7% [30.6%–30.9%]) despite a greater number of prescriptions for antihypertensive medications (2.67 [2.63‐2.70] vs. 2.23 [2.20‐2.26]). African Americans were more likely than Caucasians to have an ACEI and/or ARB prescribed and to receive prescriptions for at least two antihypertensive medications that included an ACEI or ARB (64.1 % [63.8%–64.4%] vs. 53.1% [52.8%–53.4%]). Among diabetic hypertensives, African Americans are less likely than Caucasians to attain BP <130/80 mm Hg, despite receiving more antihypertensive medication prescriptions. African Americans receive more ACEIs and/or ARBs than Caucasians for target organ protection and/or BP control. The data suggest provider prescribing patterns are not a major contributor to ethnic differences in BP control and outcomes in diabetic hypertensives.
Blood Pressure Circadian Rhythm and Endothelial Function in Heavy Smokers: Acute Effects of Transdermal Nicotine
Authors: Yugar‐Toledo Juan Carlos , Ferreira‐Melo Sílvia Elaine , Sabha Maricene , Nogueira Eduardo Arantes , Coelho Otávio Rizzi , Marciano Consolin Fernanda, Colombo , Irigoyen Maria Claudia , Moreno Heitor
Published: May 2007

Nicotine replacement therapy appears to be safe when used by healthy patients to aid in smoking cessation; however, the immediate acute effects of nicotine replacement therapy on the circadian rhythm of blood pressure (BP) and endothelial function in heavy smokers are not well understood. Twenty‐six heavy smokers were requested to stop smoking for 48 hours. BP and heart rate were recorded over 48 hours by ambulatory BP monitoring, with beat‐to‐beat changes being monitored for the first 10 hours by a noninvasive finger device. The reactivity of the brachial artery was evaluated using flow‐mediated dilation immediately after smoking cessation, before the application of a 21‐mg nicotine patch or placebo patch, and 24 hours after patch placement. Transdermal nicotine caused a mild but significant elevation in BP in the early morning in 21 of 26 volunteers. The decrease in nocturnal BP was attenuated in patients with the nicotine patch compared with the placebo patch; this was associated with impaired endothelium‐dependent vasodilation.
A Conversation With Drs. Kaplan and Moser About Conflicting Data, Confusing Results, and Some Recent Treatment Recommendations for the Management of Hypertension
Authors: Post Wendy , Moser Marvin , Kaplan Norman
Published: May 2007

Following a hypertension symposium in Baltimore, MD, on June 1, 2005, Dr. Wendy Post from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, had the opportunity to interview two of the outstanding hypertension experts in the United States on several controversial issues in hypertension management. Dr. Norman Kaplan is Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Southwestern Health Science Center in Dallas, TX, and Dr. Marvin Moser is Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Both have been leaders in the field of hypertension treatment and education for more than 40 years. Dr. Kaplan's book Clinical Hypertension has been a standard textbook since 1973 and is now in its ninth edition. Dr. Marvin Moser was the Senior Medical Consultant to the National High Blood Pressure Education Program from 1974 to 2002 and was Chairman of the first Joint National Committee on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure and a member of the six subsequent committees. His book Clinical Management of Hypertension is in its seventh edition. Drs. Moser and Kaplan were corecipients of the 2004 International Society of Hypertension Award for Outstanding Contributions to Hypertension Treatment and Education and have lectured extensively throughout the United States and overseas.
Expanding the Definition and Classification of Hypertension
Authors: Giles Thomas D. , Berk Bradford C. , Black Henry R. , Cohn Jay N. , Kostis John B. , Izzo Joseph L. , Weber Michael A.
Published: May 2007

Cardiovascular abnormalities are frequently the cause, as well as the effect, of elevated blood pressure. As such, early cardiovascular disease (CVD) may be established before identifiable blood pressure thresholds are crossed. To identify individuals at risk for CVD at an earlier point in the disease process, as well as to avoid labeling persons as hypertensive who are at low risk for CVD, the Hypertension Writing Group proposes incorporating the presence or absence of cardiovascular risk factors, early disease markers, and target organ damage into the definition and classification scheme of hypertension. To describe both the complexity and progressive nature of hypertension, the following definition is proposed: “Hypertension is a progressive cardiovascular syndrome arising from complex and interrelated etiologies. Early markers of the syndrome are often present before blood pressure elevation is observed; therefore, hypertension cannot be classified solely by discrete blood pressure thresholds. Progression is strongly associated with functional and structural cardiac and vascular abnormalities that damage the heart, kidneys, brain, vasculature, and other organs and lead to premature morbidity and death.” Classification of hypertension must involve assessing global cardiovascular risk to situate an individual's risk for CVD and events along a continuum. As knowledge of early CVD continues to evolve, the approach to classifying individuals along that continuum can be expected to evolve accordingly. The four categories currently used to classify hypertension are normal, prehypertension, and stages 1 and 2 hypertension. The population identified with prehypertension includes a subgroup with early CVD. We believe it would be preferable to classify all individuals as either normal or hypertensive, based on their cardiovascular evaluation, using the four categories of normal and stages 1, 2, and 3 hypertension.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers: The Importance of Dose in Cardiovascular and Renal Risk Reduction
Authors: Weir Matthew R.
Published: May 2007

Numerous clinical studies have established that angiotensin II receptor blockers are effective as anti‐hypertensive therapy and are well tolerated. Studies demonstrate that adding an angiotensin II receptor blocker to existing antihypertensive regimens reduces cardiovascular and renal risk, which may, in part, be a result of blocking the effects of angiotensin II. Though the antihypertensive dose response of these agents is well documented, the dose response for optimal target organ protection has not yet been clarified. A review of recent studies of angiotensin II receptor blockers in hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, and nephropathy provide some data on specific drugs, doses, and risk reduction. Taken as a whole, these studies suggest the highest doses tested, which are at the upper limit of the antihypertensive range, provide greater risk reduction than lower doses. What is unknown is whether even higher doses or full‐dose angiotensin II receptor blockers plus full‐dose angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors might provide even greater risk reduction. Data from ongoing trials will provide additional insight.
Nonsustained Reentry Following Successive Stimulation of Cardiac Tissue Through a Unipolar Electrode
Authors: ROTH BRADLEY J.
Published: May 2007

Reentry Following Unipolar Stimulation. Introduction: Using numerical simulations, we predict that nonsustained reentry occurs following a strong, premature stimulus through a unipolar electrode.

Methods and Results: Our simulations were based on the bidomain model of cardiac tissue, and the active membrane properties were represented by the Beeler‐Reuter model. An outwardly propagating wavefront was excited by an initial stimulus (SI). A second stimulus (S2) was then applied through the same electrode. Nonsustained reentry or reentrant‐like behavior followed the S2 stimulus for both cathodal and anodal stimulation, and were associated with “break” stimulation but not with “make” stimulation. The direction of spiral‐wave rotation was reversed when the polarity of the stimulus was reversed. These complex dynamics occur only for a narrow window of S1‐S2 intervals. During anodal S2 stimulation, two different modes of reentry exist. Our simulations also explain the “no response” phenomenon.

Conclusion: Our mathematical model predicts that both anodal and cathodal unipolar S2 stimulation results in reentry. This behavior arises from an interaction of virtual anodes and cathodes surrounding the stimulating electrode.
Effects of 2,3‐Butanedione Monoxime on Atrial—Atrioventricular Nodal Conduction in Isolated Rabbit Heart
Authors: CHENG YUANNA , MOWREY KENT , EFIMOV IGOR R. , Van WAGONER DAVID R. , TCHOU PATRICK J. , MAZGALBV TODOR N.
Published: May 2007

BDM Effects on AVN Conduction. Introduction: 2,3‐Butanedione monoxime (BDM) has been found to reversibly block cardiac contraction, without blocking electrical conduction. This study characterizes the dose‐dependent effects of BDM on the conduction through the atrioventricular node (AVN) of rabbit heart.

Methods and Results: Thirteen isolated atrial‐AVN preparations were used in control, during and after exposure to 5, 10, and 20 mM BDM. Anterograde and retrograde pacing protocols were used to obtain the Wenckebach cycle length, effective and functional refractory periods of the AVN, index of AVN conduction delay (the area under the AVN conduction curve), as well as index of intra‐atrial conduction delay between the AVN inputs. Compared to control, 5 and 10 mM BDM produced either shortening or no effect on all of the above parameters except a slight (6% and 14%, respectively) increase in the intra‐atrial delay. At 20 mM, BDM produced a further increase in the intra‐atrial delay (up to 50%) as well as in the retrograde AVN conduction delay (up to 16%), while the characteristics of the anterograde conduction were still improved. The effects of perfusion with BDM on these parameters were reversible after washout.

Conclusions: Aside from its known effect as an electromechanical uncoupler, BDM reversibly altered some of the electrical responses of the AVN. Most of these alterations, however, did not impede but rather improved AVN conduction. Since a dose of 10 mM is sufficient to fully eliminate undesirable motion, BDM should be considered a safe and valuable tool in AVN studies in vitro requiring a mechanically quiescent preparation.
Fatalism and HIV/AIDS Beliefs in Rural Mali, West Africa
Authors: Hess Rosanna F. , McKinney Dawn
Published: May 2007

Purpose

: To examine beliefs about HIV/AIDS of rural Malians and to measure their level of fatalism in context of HIV/AIDS and prevention behaviors.

Design

: Descriptive, correlational.

Methods

: An AIDS Knowledge and Beliefs survey and the Powe Fatalism Inventory (PFI)—HIV/AIDS version were administered to a convenience sample of 84 people at three health center maternity clinics in southeastern Mali, West Africa.

Findings

: The sample's HIV/AIDS fatalism mean was 9.2 on a 15‐point scale, with an internal consistency of .89. Health workers and more educated participants had significantly lower fatalism scores. Fatalism also varied by the combination of gender and ethnicity. People who believed that AIDS was not real, was a punishment from God, was fabricated by the West, was a curse, and that it was taboo to talk about AIDS had higher fatalism means. None of the prevention indicators were significantly related to fatalism scores.

Conclusions

: These rural Malians had a high overall fatalism mean and their beliefs about AIDS based on traditional culture may affect prevention behaviors. More research is needed to understand the influence of fatalism on prevention behaviors.
Identifying Risk Factors for Postpartum Tobacco Use
Authors: Gaffney Kathleen F. , Henry Linda L.
Published: May 2007

Purpose: To identify factors associated with becoming a mother that may contribute to postpartum smoking‐related outcomes.

Design: Cross‐sectional, correlational.

Methods: Postpartum women (N=133) who were clients in a nutrition supplement program for low‐income families responded to questionnaires about smoking and early motherhood experiences. Inferential statistical tests included hierarchical multiple and logistic regression.

Findings: After controlling for factors known to be associated with smoking outcomes for the general population, factors associated with becoming a mother significantly contributed to the amount of explained variance in both postpartum self‐efficacy to refrain from smoking and smoking within 2 weeks after delivery.

Conclusions: Study findings indicated that prenatal intentions about postpartum tobacco use and maternal response to infant cry episodes were areas for risk assessment that might lead to effective smoking cessation interventions uniquely tailored to women who experience becoming a mother.
Gunshot Residue in Chicago Police Vehicles and Facilities: An Empirical Study
Authors: Berk Robert E. , Rochowicz Scott A. , Wong Mary , Kopina Michael A.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Suspects in shooting investigations in Chicago are routinely transported in department vehicles and detained in department facilities prior to gunshot residue (GSR) evidence collection. The GSR test results are used to associate the suspect with primary exposure to GSR. The potential for these vehicles and facilities being sources of secondary GSR contamination needed to be determined. A total of 201 samples were collected from randomly selected vehicles and detention facilities. The sampling collected trace materials from surfaces that suspects’ hands may contact during the arrest process. These samples were examined for the presence of GSR particles using scanning electron microscopy. Upon completion of the automated analysis, those particles that met an initial GSR screening criterion were relocated and reanalyzed. The locations where GSR particles were recovered allowed us to make recommendations to the Chicago Police Department with regard to transporting and detaining these suspects. The low number of GSR particles recovered suggests that the potential for secondary contamination, although present, is relatively low.
Failure of Anthropometry as a Facial Identification Technique Using High‐Quality Photographs*
Authors: Kleinberg Krista F. , Vanezis Peter , Burton A. Mike
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Anthropometry can be used in certain circumstances to facilitate comparison of a photograph of a suspect with that of the potential offender from surveillance footage. Experimental research was conducted to determine whether anthropometry has a place in forensic practice in confirming the identity of a suspect from a surveillance video. We examined an existing database of photographic lineups, where one video image was compared against 10 photographs, which has previously been used in psychological research. Target (1) and test (10) photos were of high quality, although taken with a different camera. The anthropometric landmarks of right and left ectocanthions, nasion, and stomion were chosen, and proportions and angle values between these landmarks were measured to compare target with test photos. Results indicate that these measurements failed to accurately identify targets. There was also no indication that any of the landmarks made a better comparison than another. It was concluded that, for these landmarks, this method does not generate the consistent results necessary for use as evidence in a court of law.
Virtopsy – Radiology in Forensic Medicine
Authors: Grabherr S. , Stephan B. A. , Buck U. , Näther S. , Christe A. , Oesterhelweg L. , Ross S. , Dirnhofer R. , Thali M. J.
Published: May 2007

During the last few years, modern cross‐sectional imaging techniques have pioneered forensic medicine. Magnetic resonance imaging and especially multislice computed tomography are becoming increasingly implemented into post‐mortem examinations. These non‐invasive techniques can augment and even partially replace a traditional autopsy. Beside the radiological imaging techniques, the methods of three‐dimensional surface scanning and photogrammetry are used for the documentation of the external findings of the body. To realize the goal of a minimal‐invasive autopsy, other tools like post‐mortem biopsy and post‐mortem angiography have been developed. In analogy to the clinical use of biopsy and angiography these techniques will permit post‐mortem tissue sampling for further analyses and enable post‐mortem examinations of the vascular system. With the use of these methods, a minimally invasive, objective and investigator‐independent documentation of forensic cases can be realized to reach quality improvements in forensic pathological investigations.
Virtual Planning of Facial Reconstructions
Authors: Sarti A. , Lamberti C. , Gori R. , Erbacci G. , Bassani L. , Bianchi A. , Marchetti C.
Published: May 2007

In craniofacial surgery it is not easy to predict the shape of the postoperative face, as muscular changes resulting from the surgery cannot be found by a simple way. Three‐dimensional (3D) computer simulation of craniofacial surgery can be extremely useful to foresee the surgical outcome. Many authors proposed computer systems for craniofacial surgical planning based on computed tomographic (CT) images. A number of methods to achieve the prediction of soft tissue behaviour have been proposed from computer‐aided surgical planning system integrating anatomy‐based 3D finite element tissue model to methods for computation of soft‐tissue deformation in craniofacial surgery directly from CT images without any intermediate geometric model. We present a review of present techniques on the use of imaging in the presurgical planning of facial surgery and reconstruction. The entire workflow of image acquisition, tissue segmentation, tissue classification, surgical planning, soft tissue displacement computer simulation and visualization is outlined and different cases of real maxillofacial surgery are illustrated.
Multicenter Retrospective Study of ITI Implant‐Supported Posterior Partial Prosthesis in Jordan
Authors: Jebreen Sami E. , Khraisat Ameen
Published: May 2007

Purpose:  The aim of this multicenter study was to evaluate success and restorative problems of ITI (ITI Dental Implant System®, Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) implant‐supported posterior partial prostheses in Jordan.

Materials and Methods:  One‐hundred forty‐one ITI implants were placed in the posterior region of the mandible or the maxilla in 66 patients at multiple clinical practices in Jordan. The age of the patients ranged from 17 to 85 years. The implants were retrospectively analyzed from the first date of placement in September 1999 until May 2006. Eighty‐three implants (58.87%) were placed in the mandible, and 58 (41.13%) in the maxilla. The implants were loaded with either cement‐retained single‐ or multiple‐tooth replacements.

Results:  Three maxillary implants of two male patients have been lost (2.13% of the total and 5.12% of the maxillary implants). Failed implants were of wide‐neck type with 6‐mm lengths. Moreover, in another two male patients, two single implants at the maxillary premolar region exhibited significant bone loss from the buccal side of the implant surface (2‐mm bone resorption). Those two implants are still functioning and were included in calculating the survival rate but not the success rate. Therefore, the cumulative survival rate for both arches and genders was 97.87% and that for male patients in the maxillary region was 94.88%. The cumulative success rate for both arches and genders was 96.45% and that for the maxillary region was 86.21%. The corresponding rates concerning implants in female patients and the posterior mandible of both genders were 100% for both survival and success rates. Only one crown (mandibular) and another two abutment bridge (maxillary) were decemented in different patients (2.13%).

Conclusions:  The survival and success rates of implants placed in male patients and in the maxilla were lower than that of implants placed in female patients and in the mandible. Cement‐retained restorations showed minimal complications.
VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENTATION EFFECTS ON COLOR AND LIPID STABILITY OF WHOLE AND GROUND LAMB
Authors: STROHECKER M. G. , FAUSTMAN C. , FURR H. , HOAGLAND T. A. , WILLIAMS S. N.
Published: May 2007

Crossbred wethers averaging 44.1 kg were fed a diet supplemented with 2000 IU α‐tocopheryl acetate/day for 49 days. The controls received the same diet without supplement. Muscles from lambs supplemented with vitamin E contained higher concentrations of a‐tocopherol than the controls (P<0.05). There were no differences between control and supplemented animals for myoglobin stabiliry of two muscle slices stored at 4C (P>0.05). Ground semimembranosus (SM)from supplemented animals exhibited higher “a” values and lower Hue angle values (P < 0.05) than meat from control animals at 6 days of storage and longer indicating enhanced color stability due to vitamin E. Vitamin E supplementation decreased lipid oxidation of ground SM at 3, 6, 9, and 12 days of storage at 4C (P < 0.05) and it partially stabilized color of ground lamb. Color stability of whole lamb slices was not affected by vitamin E supplementation.
COLOR AND OXIDATIVE PROPERTIES OF IRRADIATED GROUND BEEF PATTIES1
Authors: LUCHSINGER S. E. , KROPF D. H. , GARCfA ZEPEDA C. M. , HUNT M. C. , STRODA S. L. , MARSDEN J. L. , KASTNER C. L.
Published: May 2007

The effects of two doses (2.0 and 3.5 kGy) of nonradioactive irradiation on color and oxidative properties were determined and compared to nonirradiated controls for frozen, raw and precooked, ground beef patties with 10 and 22% fat packaged in vacuum and aerobically. Irradiated raw patties were initially darker and less red than controls, but color of control and irradiated samples became more similar during display. Irradiation increased external redness in precooked patties that were vacuum‐packaged. Aerobic packaging, in combination with irradiation, increased lipid oxidation and discoloration, whereas vacuum‐packaged patties displayed for up to 21 days had minimal changes in color and lipid oxidation. Irradiation versus the controls significantly reduced bacterial counts.
EFFECT OF SPRAY DRIED BEEF BROTH ON THE SENSORY, TEXTURAL AND COOKING CHARACTERISTICS OF GRILLED OR BROILED LOW‐FAT GROUND BEEF PATTIES1
Authors: BLACKMER D. S. , MANDIGO R. W. , EILERT S. J. , CALKINS C. R. , OSBURN W. N.
Published: May 2007

Beef broth is a high protein, high salt by‐product that has potential to improve the palatability of low‐fat meat products. Low‐fat ground beef with 2 or 3% added beef broth (BB) and 7 or 8% added water were compared to formulations with salt in an amount equal to the salt in the BB formulations and to a 16% fat, all‐beef control (no salt). Fatties were cooked on a grill or broiler and analyzed for sensory desirability, tenture and cooked characteristics. Low‐fat BB patties were equal to or more desirable for all sensory traits compared to other low‐fat patty formulations and control patties. Control patties required more force to shear and were harder and chewier than BB patties (F<0.01). Grilled patties were rated higher for sensory tenderness, but were harder to compress than broiled patties (P<0.05). Acceptable low‐fat ground beef patties were manufactured with a combination of spray dried beef broth and added water.
THE EFFECTS OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION AND HOT‐PROCESSING ON QUALITY, PALATABILITY, AND CONSUMER ACCEPTANCE OF LAMB1
Authors: JEREMIAH L. E. , TONG A. K. W. , GIBSON L. L.
Published: May 2007

A total of 500 lambs (159 rams, 165 ewes, and 176 wethers) sh to nine months of age and with slaughter weights between 41 and 77 kg were utilized. Electrical stimulation accelerated pstmortem PH (P<0.05). However, significant linear time trends were not observed with any treatment in the rwo muscles evaluated. Muscle temperature declined progressively as expected with all treatments and in all muscles. However, electrically stimulated, hot‐processed muscles cooled the most rapidly, due to the hot‐processing treatment, and had the lowest percentage transmission, while electrically stimulated muscles had the greatest amount of expressible juice (P<0.05). No effects on muscle color were observed (P>0.05). Electrical stimulation was clearly benejicial and hot‐processing was clearly detrimental to lambpalatability. The beneficial effects of electrical stimulation, however, were not effective in either preventing or offsetting the detrimental effects of hot‐processing. Moreover, electrical stimulation alone and in combination with hot‐processing produced only minor effects on consumer acceptance.
CALCIUM CHELATORS AND SALT EXTRACTED MYOFIBRILLAR PROTEIN INJECTION INTO LEAN PRERIGOR BEEF MUSCLE: EFFECTS ON TENDERNESS INDICES
Authors: CLAUS J.R. , JORDAN L. , EIGEL W.N. , MARRIOTT N.G. , SHAW D.E.
Published: May 2007

Prerigor beef longissimus muscles were removed within 40 min postmortem and injected 10% (within 2 h postmortem) with either a chelator (alginate, 3%; haametaphosphate, 3%; EDTA, 0.13%; citrate, 0.13%), meat slurry (45%), or a myofibrillar meat extract (3.7% protein) to evaluate the effects of each injection on the physical and chemical properties compared to a control and a water only injected treatment. Gross muscle shortening was not inhibited The water only, meat extract and citrate treatments had shorter (P<0.05) sarcomeres than the control. The meat shy, alginate, phosphate, and EDTA treatments produced sarcomere lengths equivalent to the control. The control had the lowest (P<0. 05) pH and percentage moisture. However, there were no differences in percentage cooking losses. Although variations in sarcomere length were apparent, these treatments did not improve tenderness (P>0.05) as measured by Warner‐Bratzler shear.
PORK SOFTNESS ASSESSED SUBJECTIVELY AND OBJECTIVELY USING VACUUM‐INDUCED CHANGES IN REFLECTANCE
Authors: SWATLAND H.J.
Published: May 2007

Subjective assessments were made of softness and paleness in longissimus muscles of 382 sides of pork. Softness was correlated with paleness, (r = 0.57, P < 0.001). Softness was tested objectively in another 48 pork loins by applying a vacuum (to −2 kPa) across an elliptical area of longissimus. Reflectance from the meat surface measured by fiber‐optics increased as the meat bulged outwards toward the vacuum. Pale pork was deformed to a greater extent than dark pork, and the initial slope of the reflectance‐pressure relationship was correlated with initial reflectance before deformation and with maximum reflectance during deformation. At the maximum extent of deformation, there was a decrease in reflectance if the meat touched the fiber‐optic light guide. By spectrophotometry of another 19 loins, the major difference between reflectance at 0 kPa and ≤−2 kPa was found at 470 nm.
EFFECT OF MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING ON THE QUALITY OF SMOKED CATFISH
Authors: GOKTEPE I. , MOODY M. W.
Published: May 2007

Smoked catfish were inoculated with Listeria ivanovii then packaged under 80% CO2/20% N2 (M1) and 40% CO2/30%O2/130% N2 (M2) and stored at 2 and 8C. Noninoculated samples packaged under air (A) served as controls. Fillets stored under M2 at 8C showed the fastest growth of L. ivanovii. L. ivanovii counts in samples stored under M1 at both temperatures decreased significantly over time. Listeria growth was observed in samples stored under air at 2 and 8C after 2 weeks. APC results were similar to that of Listeria The highest TBA values were observed in M2‐stored samples followed by air‐stored samples. Lightness (“L” values) increased significantly, whereas “a” (redgreen) and “b” (blue/yellow) values decreased in all atmospheres at both temperatures over time. The combined use of M1 and 2C improved the quality of smoked catfish by inhibiting microbial growth and minimizing the extent of lipid oxidation.
TRIMMING, VACUUM CLEANING OR HOT WATER‐VACUUM CLEANING EFFECTS OF LAMB HINDSADDLES1
Authors: GILL C.O. , BAKER L.M.
Published: May 2007

Swab samples were obtained from the hindsaddles of randomly selected lamb carcasses before and after the routine operations of trimming, vacuum cleaning unaccompanied by heating of the surface, or hot water‐vacuum cleaning in a commercial carcass dressing process. For each operation, two pairs of sample sets, each pair of 25 samples collected before and 25 samples collected after the operation were obtained The total aerobes, coliforms and Escherichia coli recovered from each sample were enumerated. For each set, values for the mean, standard deviation and log of the arithmetic mean were calculated on the assumption that the log values were normally distributed. For any pair of total count, coliform or E. coli data sets, the log means generally differed by <0.3, <0.4 or <0.5 log units, respectively. Apparently, none of the treatments had practically important effects on the microbial condition of the population of dressed carcasses.
CRANBEFCRY JUICE MARINADE IMPROVES SENSORY AND MICROBIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF VACUUM‐PACKAGED LAMB CHOPS
Authors: McKENNA D. R. , STRACHAN D. S. , MILLER R. K. , ACUFF G. R. , SAVELL J. W.
Published: May 2007

Marination was investigated as a means to add value and improve the palatability of lamb chops. Vacuum‐packaged whole lamb loins (n = 24) were assigned randomly to a 14 or 20‐day aging period. Loins were split and right and left sides were designated to receive one of two treatments: control or marinade with spice rub. Loins were cut into chops and chops were vacuum‐packaged and displayed for 0–, 7– or 14‐days in a retail display case. Chops from both aging periods assigned to the 0 day retail display period were evaluated for both raw and cooked characteristics by consumers. Consumers indicated that cooked appearance. odor, juiciness, flavor, tenderness, and overall‐like were higher for treated chops than for controls (P < 0.05). However, consumers preferred the appearance of raw control chops over the appearance of raw treated chops (P < 0.05). Treated lamb chops had lower aerobic plate counts at 7 and 14 days of retail display for both aging periods (P < 0.05), and lower 2‐thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) values than control chops (P < 0.05). A treatment × retail display day interaction (P < 0.05) was observed for TBARS values as treated chops had lower TBARS values than control chops as days of retail display increased. Marinating lamb chops improved palatability traits of cooked lamb chops and extended the shelf‐life characteristics of raw lamb chops.
EARLY POSTMORTEM MUSCLE SHORTENING AND TENSION IN RELATION TO TENDERNESS IN BEEF M. LONGISSIMUS
Authors: ROSENVOLD K. , ANDERSEN H. J. , SLINDE E. , HILDRUM K. I.
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate muscle tension and shortening in relation to tenderness in beef M. longissimus. Initially, an intercalibration of six identical rigormeters using a polyacrylamide standard showed that the rigormeters gave reproducible results. This means that the rigormeter is a potentially valuable tool in studies of postmortem muscle tension and shortening. Tension and shortening of M. longissimus from 24 bulls carcasses exposed to two different chilling regimes were measured 1.5 to 20 h postmortem in the rigormeters. The muscle samples were separated into three groups; fast chilled (all tough), slow chilled (tough) and slow chilled (tender). On average, both the developed tension and accumulated shortening of muscle strips during this period were highest in tender, slow chilled samples and lowest in fast chilled samples. There was a relationship between glycolytic rate and the muscle contraction process, as the fast glycolyzing muscles exerted the fastest development of tension and contraction. This study indicates that tension and, shortening, as measured in the rigormeter, is related to WB shear force measured in aged meat.
A RAPID METHOD FOR DETECTION OF THE COPY NUMBER OF PORCINE ENDOGENOUS RETROVIRUS IN SWINE
Authors: YU P. , ZHANG L. , LI S.F. , CHENG J.Q. , LU Y.R. , ZENG Y.Z. , LI Y.P. , BU H.
Published: May 2007

Pig‐to‐human xenotransplantation is associated with the risk of porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) transmission. It was assumed that copy number of PERV could increase during inbreeding. To detect the copy number of PERV of Banna minipig inbred line (BMI) and three other breeds of Chinese pigs, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐QPCR, SYBR Green I ) was performed in this study. The results demonstrated that BMI pigs contained higher copy numbers of PERV gag, pol and envB genes than other tested domestic pigs, which greatly suggested that copy numbers had increased during inbreeding. Domestic pigs outbreeding and from different regions had similar copy numbers of PERV in genome. Thus, selective outbreeding of pigs of remote origin might be a feasible means to reduce PERV load in organ donors. RT‐QPCR (SYBR Green I) offered a rapid and accurate method for the detection of the copy number of most relevant retroviruses and was especially suitable for high‐throughput screen.
Non–ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes: Treatment guidelines for the nurse practitioner
Authors: Albert Nancy
Published: May 2007

Purpose: To increase awareness among nurse practitioners (NPs) of the American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) 2002 guideline update for the diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary syndrome, and for secondary prevention in patients with unstable angina (UA) and non–ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Data sources: ACC/AHA 2002 guideline update for the management of patients with UA and NSTEMI, ACC/AHA guidelines for patients with coronary and other atherosclerotic vascular disease, 2006 update, selected research and clinical articles.

Conclusions: Recent research has shown that patients with UA/NSTEMI benefit from the routine, long‐term use of dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel. In suitable patients, outcome is also improved by adoption of an early invasive strategy combined with aggressive medical therapy.

Implications for practice: Familiarity with the patient as well as current management recommendations can improve clinical outcomes for patients with UA/NSTEMI. Thus, NPs can play a pivotal role in the management of coronary disease, both during and following an acute ischemic event.
Caring for patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Hayden Mary Lou , Womack Catherine R.
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Allergic rhinitis (AR) affects up to 40 million Americans, with an estimated cost of $2.7 billion per annum. This review discusses several therapeutic options that reduce the symptoms of AR, including allergen avoidance, antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids (INS), leukotriene receptor antagonists, and immunotherapy.

Data sources: The articles included in this review were retrieved by a search of Medline literature on the subjects of AR, antihistamines, INS, leukotriene antagonists, and immunotherapy, as well as current published guidelines for the treatment of AR.

Conclusions: Allergen avoidance is recommended for all patients prior to pharmacologic therapy. Oral and nasal H1‐antihistamines are recommended to alleviate the mild and intermittent symptoms of AR, and INS are recommended as the first‐line treatment choice for mild persistent and more moderate‐to‐severe persistent AR.

Implications for practice: There are a number of different types of therapy for the management of AR; with so many options available, successful tailoring of treatment to suit individual requirements is realistically achievable.