bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phisco-Chemical analysis and sensory evaluation of Iraqi cake incorporated with grape and date (Zahidi) syrup
Authors: Alsirrag M A , Hussein A A , Awahd H A , Awda J M , Al-Masoudi Z M , Almosawy M M
Published: December 2019

In this research, The effect of substituting sucrose with different level of DS and DG (0, 25, 30,50,70 and 100%) on the physiochemical, microbial and sensory properties of cake were studied. Cake models were as well construed for microbial content and organic structure during, before then next 35 days storing at experimental temperature. Results showed no significant variances (p < 0.01) in the chemo physical structure of the date and grape test cake for protein values while there were significant differences for Asch, fiber and fat content values, Sensory assessment results showed high significant variance (p < 0.01) among the cake trials with the exemption of texture (6.04-6.07) for both treatment and general acceptability (7.05 and 7.08) for date and grape cakes, respectively. The microbial content (fungal and bacterial) of the grape cake were lesser than the date cake all over the period of the 35 days storing at experimental temperature. The maximum microbial content was documented next the 25th days (148.0 × 105 cfu/g) in addition to (194.30 × 105 cfu/g) for grape and date trial cakes respectively. The fungus content was additionally supreme at 25th day of storing (14.33 × 101 cfu/g) and (12.67 × 103 cfu/g) for grape and date cakes respectively. The total viable counts remained in suitable parameters for human utilization. So, grape and date syrup can easily replace sucrose in sweetened cake making in Iraq. The aim of research study the effect of the accepted neutral sweetener (grape and date syrup) acting as replacement of sugar in production of local cake sensory and chemical characteristic have been examined.
The study of chemical content and physicochemical properties of ostrich (Struthio camelus) fat (local)
Authors: Al-Baidhani A M , Al-Mossawi A H
Published: December 2019

The study contains the description of the ostrich fat by estimating the chemical content, which included moisture, protein, fat, ash, cholesterol, minerals and lipid-soluble vitamins, including vitamin (E andA) and the estimation of lipoproteins. Chemical properties were also studied which include peroxide value (PV), free fatty acids (FFA), saponification number (SN), iodine number and Physical properties include viscosity, density and specific gravity, refractive index, melting point and ester value (EV). Fatty acids were identified by using gas chromatography (GC). The results showed the percentage of moisture, protein, fat and ash were 5.56%, 5.16%, 87.88% and 1.03%, respectively. The mineral includes sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and selenium reach to 8.5, 2.5, 40.11, 12.96, 78.6, 0.532 and 7.86 ppm respectively, cholesterol content was 50.63 mg / 100 g, vitamins content A and E was recorded 72.13 and 91.30 mg / ml respectively. The fat has good chemical and physical properties, such as viscosity, density and specific gravity, refractive index, melting point, saponification number, iodine number and ester value. While the results of lipoproteins in the ostrich fat HDL was 65 mg / dl, LDL 52 mg / dl and VLDL 35 mg / dl and triglycerides reach to 75 mg / dl. The peroxide number was 0.86 equivalent Meq O2 / Kg, and the percentage of the free fat acids reach to 0.38%. The fatty acid compassion was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and also showed nine saturated and unsaturated fatty acids including oleic acid, palmitic acid, arachidonic acid, erucic acid, heneicosanoic acid, undecanoic acid, lauric acid, caproic acid and myristic acid.
Improving the sensory and qualitative properties of barley bread using broken wheat wet gluten
Authors: Abadi F A , Naser J M
Published: December 2019

Vital wheat gluten was extracted from broken wheat flour (Triticum aestivum), which is an accidental product during the technical milling process and used to improve the sensory and qualitative properties of bread made using flour from two varieties of Iraqi barley (IPA 99, IPA 265) which were obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture / Agricultural Research Center. The chemical composition analysis revealed that the percentage of β-glucan in barley flour (72% extraction) (BFE) of IPA 99 and IPA 265 were (3.9, 4.5%), respectively, while for whole barley flour (100% extraction) (WBF) those values were (3, 3.9%), respectively. The percentage of pentosanes in (WBF) of the experimental of varieties were (7.8, 12.6%). However, in the (BFE) these values drooped to (6.0 - 8.7%). This study, two experiments with seven treatments were carried out. The first experiment include using broken wheat wet gluten (BWWG) at different percentage in bread mix as follows, barley flour (type A) with 14% (BWWG) (T1), 16%( BWWG) (T2), 18 %( BWWG) (T3), 20% (BWWG) (T4), and 22 %( BWWG) (T5) of the experimental gluten, T6 was barley flour and 20% commercial gluten (CG) (for comprised) while T7 was barley flour with no added gluten. The second experiment was with barley flour from type (B) with a similar ratio of add gluten. The results have shown that the specific volume of the bread for IPA 99 & IPA 265 was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that of control. The highest value of specific volume were in the treatments AT5 &BT5 (3.3 & 3.34 cm3/gm) compared with the control where it was (1.43 & 1.5 cm3/gm). Sensory evaluation test showed an improvement in the sensory and qualitative characteristics of gluten contenting bread. Chemical analysis of the loaf prepared from superior treatments showed that percentage of protein increased from 10.7-113% to 25-26.6%, fiber to 1.3 - 1.8%, and carbohydrates to 57.5- 60.4% as compared with control treatment which was 74.5%.
Hexavalent chromium toxicity induced biochemical perturbation in Tilapia nilotica: role of Phoenix
Authors: Jebur A B , El-Demerdash F M
Published: December 2019

The current study was designed to investigate the protective role of Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) water extract (DPE) against oxidative injury induced by different concentrations of hexavalent chromium (CrVI) in liver and muscles of Tilapia nilotica (Oreochromis niloticus) fish in vitro. Results demonstrated that CrVI caused a significant concentration-dependent inhibition in glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities as well as glutathione content. In addition, inhibition in transaminases and alkaline phosphatase activities were observed. While, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels in liver and muscles homogenate were increased. On the other hand, homogenates treated with DPE alone improve the antioxidant status and liver function biomarkers. Moreover, homogenate pretreated with DPE then exposed to CrVI showed marked modulation in lipid peroxidation, enzyme activities and protein content as compared to their respective CrVI treated ones. Conclusively, Phoenix dactylifera might have a potential protective role against CrVI toxicity.
The nutritional composition and vitamin E of three Iraqi okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) seeds oil
Authors: AL-Kanani E A S , AL-Hilifi S A H , AL-Kareem A H
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to determination the nutritional and vitamin E analysis of the three Iraqi cultivars of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) seeds oil. The phenolic compound, chlorophyll, carotenoid and minerals (Fe, Zn, Ca, K, Mg, Na, P) were determined in okra seeds oil. The oil from A. esculentus seeds were extracted using Bligh and Dyer with chloroform: methanol (1:1). The mean values of total phenolic, the results of this study the husayniyah seeds oil contained the highest pheolic content (34.73mg Gallic acid/100g oil) and chlorophyll and caroteniod (2.295, 2.813mg/kg oil) in husayniyah respectively. Batera seed oil had the highest percentage of vitamin E (3861.347 ppm) when estimation vitamin HPLC. The results showed that petra seed oil had the highest Mg(321 ppm) while phosphorus was (382.799ppm) in husayniyah.
Electrical, characterization and functional properties of extract gum ( Tniqonella Foenum graecum L. ) from Fenugreek seeds.
Authors: Al-Shammari B B , Al-Ali R M , Al-Sahi A A
Published: December 2019

Gum was extracted from fenugreek seeds Tniqonella Foenum graecum L, and characterized by several techniques method such DSC and Thermo gravimetric TGA analysis, Spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier- Transformed FT-IR, X- ray powded diffraction spectrometry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. The results indicated FT-IR spectra of the studied gums showed the presence of the same functional groups expect arabic gum contain COO group, The main bands observed were assigned to O-H (3406. 26 – 3412.08) group from hydroxyl group, C-H aliphatic (2856.58 –2926.01), C=O (1429.25 –1668.43) group, COO (1735.43) group that are present only in the structure of arabic gum and C-O (1014.56. –1155.36). Thermo chemical properties of fenugreek seeds gum was determined and compared with arabic gum and acacia gum by DSC and TGA, The results are showed that fenugreek seeds gum and acacia gum were degraded at 300°C. The mass loss being of 33% and 45%, while Arabic gum was degraded at 303°C with weight loss 53% analyzing, The X- ray powdered diffraction revealed that fenugreek seeds gum had one weak peak at the scattering angle 2θ at 5.32 in height 60.15 cts which the X-ray diffract gram of the arabic gum and acacia gum showed presence weak peaks at the scattering angle 2θ at 20.94 and 19.04 in height 47.78 and 52.84 cts respectively. Analysis of gum by the H -NMR spectra indicate fenugreek seeds gum is a galactomannan type polysaccharide which contain mannose and galactose, which arabic gum and acacia gum were had the same sugars. All these result showed that fenugreek gum is useful in food industry.
Analysis of bioactive phytochemical compound of (Cyperus aucheri Jaub.) by using gas chromatography –mass spectrometry
Authors: Abu-Serag N A , Al-Garaawi N I , Ali A M , Alsirrag M A
Published: December 2019

Twenty one bioactive phytochemical compound were identified in the methanolic extract of Cyperus aucheri Jaub. The identification of phytochemical compounds is based on the peak area, retention time, molecular weight and MS Fragmentation. GC-MS analysis of Cyperus aucheri Jaub. Revealed the existence of the 3-Phenylheptanoic acid, benzylammonium salt, 2-(benzyloxymethyl)-5-methylfuran, 4-methoxycarbonylphenyl)methyl 4-methylbenzoate, Benzoic acid, 4-methyl-,[4-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl]methyl ester, dodeca-5,7-diyne-1,12-diol, 4-Isopropyl-3,7-dimethyloctahydro-1H-cyclopenta[1,3]cyclopropa[1,2]benzol-3-ol, Benzoic acid,4-methyl-,[4- (methoxycarbonyl)phenyl]methyl ester, 6-Oxo-heptanoic acid methyl ester, Benzamide, N-[4-(3-furan-2-ylacryloyl)phenyl]-4-methyl-ester, O-alpha-dextro-glucopyranosyl-(1-3)-beta-dextro-fructofuranosyl-alpha-dextro-glucopyranoside, 1-methyl-5-(propan-2-yl)-3,6,7-trioxatricyclo[3.2.2.02,4]nonane, 2,3-diacetyloxypropyl (9E,12E,15E)-octadeca-9,12,15-trienoate, 2,3-bis(acetyloxy)propyl ester, Methyl 8-oxohexadecanoate, ethyl (3α,5β,7α,12α)-3,7,12-trihydroxycholan-24-oate, Furan-2-carbohydrazide, N2-(3-indolylmethylene), 1,2-Propanediol, 3-(octadecyloxy)-,diacetate, N,N-Dimethyltetradecylamine, 1-O-butyl 2-O-tetradecyl benzene-1,2-dicarboxylate, 2,7-Diphenyl-1,6-dioxopyridazino[4,5:2’,3’]pyridazin, 1-Heptadecanecarboxylic acid, Dasycarpidan -1-methanol, acetate ( ester). It contain chemical constitutions which may be useful for various herbal formulation as Antioxidant, Anticancer, Antigenotoxic activity, Antimicrobial Activity, anti –inflammatory, Anthelmintic, Nematicide, Antihistaminic, Antieczemic, Insectifuge, Treat asthma, Stomach ach, Arthritis, dysentery, Malaria, nervous disease, Antitumor, Antidiarrheal, antifungal activity.
The fatty acids Determination in breast milk and in infant formula milk
Authors: Aldhalemi M A , Aldhalemi A A , Al-Mosawi R S
Published: December 2019

Breast milk is the first and best food for the baby and the natural source of all the nutrients needed by the infant to grow and move. At present, local and international markets are full of milk products and alternatives milk products. The aim of this study was to find the differences between the infant formula and breast milk in the presence and percentages of fatty acids during the period of lactation. A total of 240 samples of healthy mothers (ages 18-33 years) which had an infants aged 3-11 months were collected voluntarily, the samples were collected daily and five days per week. A representative sample of the week was taken to measure the presence and percentages of fatty acids by GC mass. The results of fatty acids for the mother sample for the period less than six months were shows (Capric, Lauric, Myristic, Palmitic, Palmitoleic, Stearic, Oleic, Linoleic and Margaric acid 1.41, 1.49, 0.86, 2.59, 0.85, 0.64, 9.09, 10.3, 0.85%), while the infant formula was (IF1 = Linoleic 14.75 %, Oleic 5.11%, Stearic11.39%, Palmitic 3.9%, Myristic 1.04%, Lauric 2.71% and Capric 0.52 %, IF2 = Capric 1.44%, Lauric 9.44%, Myristic 3.34%, Palmitic 5.86%, stearic 1.92%, Oleic 12.51% and Linoleic 6.37%, IF3 = Capric 0.7%, Lauric 1.39%, Myristic 0.53%, Palmitic 4.51%, stearic 0.71%, Oleic 3.73% and Linoleic 2.44% ). While it were the results of breast milk from fatty acids in the period after six months were as follows (Capric 0.84%, Lauric 3.14%, Myristic 2.94%, Palmitic 5.33%, Palmitoleic 0.2%, Stearic 1.8%, Oleic 6.23%, Linoleic 7.06%, Margaric acid 1.16%), the results of the infant formula varied for the same period(IF4 = capric 0.84%, Lauric 3.52%, Myristic 0.94%, Palmitic 5.12%, Palmitoleic 3.64%, Stearic 1.06%, Oleic 5.62% and Linoleic 2.95% IF5 = Capric 0.97 %, Lauric 4.59 %, Myristic 0.74%, Palmitic 3.42 %, Palmitoleic 18.44 %, Undecanoic acid 4.53 %, Oleic 5.13 %, Linoleic 3.02 %, Stearic 1.18 %, Margaric acid 1.64 % and Arachidic acid 0.88 %, IF6 = Lauric 0.5%, Myristic 0.55%, Palmitic 2.83%, Palmitoleic 20.1%, Sebacic 1 %, Arachidic acid 0.98%, Linoleic 1.49 %, Stearic 1.1 % ). The study showed that the earliest infant formula was (IF5) in terms of the fatty acids presence for the second period compared to breast milk, but in terms of ratios did not find a match between breast milk for the periods before and after six months, as well as between breast milk and infant formula.
Response of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) cv. ‘Great Smoky Mountains’ to Foliar Application of Putrescine, Spermidine and Salicylic Acid
Authors: Saeed A A J Mohammad , Abdulhadi M D , Salih S M
Published: December 2019

The experiment was carried out in the lath house at the Station Research of Horticulture and Landscape Department/College of Agriculture/University of Diyala, Iraq for the fall season 2016-2017. The experiment included two factors, first one foliar application with polyamines (PAs), putrescine and spermidine, at concentrations of 0 (distilled water as control), 50 and 100 mg.l−1 of putrescine, and 50, 100 mg.l−1 of spermidine. The second factor was foliar spray with salicylic acid (SA) at concentrations of 0, 100 and 200 mg.l−1. Foliar application of PAs (putrescine and spermidine) led to enhance all vegetative growth and flowering qualities of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) cv. ‘Great Smoky Mountains’. Treatment with 100 mg.l−1 of spermidine gave the best results in terms of number of leaves, leaves area, relative chlorophyll content of leaves, flowering date, length and diameter of flower stalk, percentage of dry material in flowers. While, treatment with 100 mg.l−1 of putrescine gave the best results in terms of percentage of leaves dry material, number of flowers, and flower diameter. Foliar spray with SA affected positively in most vegetative and flowering qualities of gerbera, the best results were achieved when sprayed with 200 mg.l−1 in terms of percentage of leaves dry material, number of flowers, flower diameter, flower stalk length, percentage of flowers dry material. While, spraying with 100 mg.l−1 gave the best results in terms of number of leaves, leaves area, relative chlorophyll content of leaves, flowering date and diameter of flower stalk. Interaction between PAs (putrescine and spermidine) and SA showed significant improvement in all vegetative and flowering characters of gerbera. Treatment of 100 mg.l−1 of spermidine combined with 100 mg.l−1 of salicylic acid gave the best results in terms of number of leaves, leaf area, relative chlorophyll content in leaves, flowering date, flower diameter, length and diameter of flower stalk, percentage of flowers dry material. Treatment of 100 mg.l−1 of putrescine combined with 200 mg.l−1 of salicylic acid was surpassed in giving best total content of carbohydrate in leaves and number of flowers.
Propagation of white mulberry Morus alba L. fruitless cultivar using different cutting times and IBA.
Authors: Aref Hawramee O K , Aziz R R , Hassan D A
Published: December 2019

The white mulberry Morus alba L. is an interesting tree that widely planted throughout the world for various uses. The effort was made in this study to propagate the fruitless cultivar of Morus alba L. by hardwood cuttings; comparing different cuttings collection time with using various concentrations of IBA (Indole-3-Butyric Acid) solution. Results showed that taking and planting cuttings on March 1st, gave the best survival percentage of rooted seedlings, which was (20.83%) compared to February 8th (16.33%) and March 22nd (12.5%).Cuttings treated with different concentrations of IBA significantly increased success percentage; 58.33, 66.67, 50.00 and 20.83% for 2000, 1500, 1000 and 0ppm respectively. Furthermore, the combination effect of previous factors had positive effects on studied characters; the heighest values of success rate of rooting (66.67%) from cuttings taken on March 1st and immersed in 1500ppm of IBA solution (T7), while success rate of rooting (58.33%) and all other qualitative parameters of shoots height (70cm), vegetation fresh weight (74.9g), vegetation dry weight (24.06g), root length (41.17cm) roots fresh weight (5.26g), roots dry weights (1.5g), number of leaves per plant (32.33), and leaf area (84.32cm2) were obtained from cuttings taken on the same time but treated with 2000ppm. The results recommend taking cuttings on March 1st, and using 2000ppm of IBA directly before planting to enhance cuttings survival percentage and seedlings quality.
Impact of bio fertilizer and magnetic irrigation water on growth and yield of melon Cucumis melo L.
Authors: Ali A F , Alsaady M H , Salim H A
Published: December 2019

The field experiment was conducted at Baqubah nursery, Directorate of Diyala agriculture in Iraq during summer growing of 2017 to study the effect of bio and chemical fertilizers with magnetized water as well as their interactions on growth and yield of melon cv. Piel de sapo. The experiment was laid-out in Randomized Complete Block Design with factorial experiment with three replications and two factors, included two treatments of fertilizer types (urea 50 kg N. ha−1) with Bio-fertilizer (Azospirillum brasilense and Azotobacter chroococcum) and chemical fertilizer (urea 100 kg N. ha−1) and the second factor included magnetized water and non-magnetized water. The results showed that bio & chemical fertilizer caused significant increases in all studied traits rates compared to chemical fertilizer. Also magnetized water revealed that significant superiority of all study traits rates compared to non-magnetized water. Whereas the interaction between bio and chemical fertilizers with magnetized water led to significant superiority in other treatments with the highest values of all study traits, viz. fruits yield (7.2 kg. plant−1), fruits weight (3.4 kg. replicat−1), total yield (28520.0 kg. ha−1), fruit length (27.6 cm), content of fructose sugar in fruits after 24 days of storage (13.1%), fruit diameter from outside and inside (16.8 and 5.1cm) respectively, content of fibers in fruits after 24 days of storage (6.4%), fruits content of TSS% after 3 days of storage (13.7%) and fruits firmness after 24 days of storage (2.8%).
Effect of Phenylalanine and Naphthalene Acetic Acid on Growth, Yield and Antioxidant Activity of Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum
Authors: Al-Duraid M H , Al-Taey K A , Al-Kikhani Ali H J
Published: December 2019

A filed experiment was carried out during autumn at 2017 to assess the effect of phenylalanine (Phe) foliar application at a rate of 0, 100 and 200 mg.L-1, and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 0, 50 and 100 mg.L-1, as well as their interactions on growth parameters, yield components and antioxidant activity as a total phenolics content (TPC), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and radical scavenging activity (DPPH) of leaves and seeds of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Results showed that all parameters increased significantly with increasing Phe, NAA at 50 mg.L-1 had significant effect on all parameters, while NAA at 100 mg.L-1 increased only plant height and antioxidant activity parameters, the interaction Phe200 ×NAA100 gave high values on antioxidant parameters TPC, TAC, FRAP and DPPH reached 166.39, 46.34, 1.298 mg.100g-1 DW and 78.69% respectively for leaves and 64.57, 58.96, 0.504 mg.100g-1 DW and 83.26% respectively for seeds.
Effect of spraying with Tecamin Algae and NPK fertilizer on the growth of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) seedlings cv. California wonderful
Authors: Al-Abbasi G B , Abdullah K M , Hussein Z A
Published: December 2019

This study was carried out in the lath house of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kufa for the period from 1st March to 1st December, 2015. The experiment was conducted on six months old pomegranate seedlings (Wonderful cultivar) in order to study the effect of spraying with Tecamin Algae with four concentrations (1, 2, 3 and 4) ml.l−1 and NPK fertilizer at 100, 200, 300 and 400 kg.ha−1. The treatments were examined separately and overlapping. The results showed that spraying the seedlings with the treatments and their interactions caused a significant increase in seedling length and its diameter, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh and dry weight of vegetative shoot, and total chlorophyll of leaves. The treatment of interference between the marine algae extract (4 ml.l−1) and NPK fertilizer (400 kg.ha−1) was superior by obtaining the highest values of all traits compared with control treatment. It can be concluded from this study that a balanced fertilization management that combines the use of chemical, organic or bio-fertilizers must be developed and evaluated with different plants and under different cultivation system.
Oh Hi There History: An Adaptation of Historical Research and an Exploration of Fidelity Discourse through Practice
Authors: Nicholson Lydia
Published: December 2019

Adaptation studies theorists have debated the value and scope of fidelity criticism for decades, but the application of fidelity discourse from an adaptation practitioner perspective is vastly under-researched. Using a practice-based research strategy, this article describes how a consideration of fidelity discourse during the development of the web-series, Oh Hi There History, supported the development of the series as an adapted text and raised new questions about adaptation theory and practice. Oh Hi There History is an adaptation of the Founders and Survivors project’s research into Tasmanian convict history. This article considers the binary of in/fidelity in a practitioner context, analyses how fidelity taxonomies might be applied to the development of an adapted text, and explores the possibilities of applying through practice theoretical approaches to fidelity discourse around intertextuality and history-as-adaptation. By applying these theories in a new context, this article argues that practice-based research can provide new insight into fidelity discourse and new ways of understanding the role of fidelity in adaptation practice.
Factors Associated With Treatment and Control of Hypertension in a Healthy Elderly Population Free of Cardiovascular Disease: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Chowdhury Enayet K , Nelson Mark R , Ernst Michael E , Margolis Karen L , Beilin Lawrence J , Johnston Colin I , Woods Robyn L , Murray Anne M , Wolfe Rory , Storey Elsdon , Shah Raj C , Lockery Jessica E , Tonkin Andrew M , Newman Anne B , Williamson Jeff D , Abhayaratna Walter P , Stocks Nigel P , Fitzgerald Sharyn M , Orchard Suzanne G , Trevaks Ruth E , Donnan Geoffrey A , Grimm Richard , McNeil John J , Reid Christopher M ,   ASPREE Investigator Group
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Despite readily available treatments, control of blood pressure (BP) with population aging remains suboptimal. Further, there are gaps in the understanding of the management of high BP in the aged. We explored antihypertensive treatment and control among elderly hypertensive participants free from overt cardiovascular disease (CVD), and identified factors related to both “untreated” and “treated but uncontrolled” high BP.

METHODS

We analyzed baseline data from 19,114 individuals aged ≥65 years enrolled from Australia and United States (US) in the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly study. Hypertension was defined as an average systolic/diastolic BP ≥140/90 mm Hg and/or the use of any BP lowering medication. “Controlled hypertension” was defined if participants were receiving antihypertensive medication and BP <140 and 90 mm Hg. Descriptive analyses were used to summarize hypertension control rates; logistic regression was used to investigate relationships with treatment and BP control.

RESULTS

Overall, 74% (14,213/19,114) of participants were hypertensive; and of these 29% (4,151/14,213) were untreated. Among those treated participants, 53% (5,330/10,062) had BP ≥140/90 mm Hg. Participants who were untreated were more likely to be men, have higher educational status, and be in good physical health, and less likely to have significant comorbidities. The factors related to “treated but uncontrolled” BP included older age, male, Black race (vs. White), using antihypertensive monotherapy (vs. multiple) and residing in Australia (vs. US).

CONCLUSIONS

High levels of “untreated” and “treated but uncontrolled” BP occur in healthy elderly people without CVD, suggesting there are opportunities for better BP control in the primary prevention of CVD in this population.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

NCT01038583.
pyDockEneRes: per-residue decomposition of protein–protein docking energy
Authors: Romero-Durana Miguel , Jiménez-García Brian , Fernández-Recio Juan
Published: December 2019

Motivation

Protein–protein interactions are key to understand biological processes at the molecular level. As a complement to experimental characterization of protein interactions, computational docking methods have become useful tools for the structural and energetics modeling of protein–protein complexes. A key aspect of such algorithms is the use of scoring functions to evaluate the generated docking poses and try to identify the best models. When the scoring functions are based on energetic considerations, they can help not only to provide a reliable structural model for the complex, but also to describe energetic aspects of the interaction. This is the case of the scoring function used in pyDock, a combination of electrostatics, desolvation and van der Waals energy terms. Its correlation with experimental binding affinity values of protein–protein complexes was explored in the past, but the per-residue decomposition of the docking energy was never systematically analyzed.

Results

Here, we present pyDockEneRes (pyDock Energy per-Residue), a web server that provides pyDock docking energy partitioned at the residue level, giving a much more detailed description of the docking energy landscape. Additionally, pyDockEneRes computes the contribution to the docking energy of the side-chain atoms. This fast approach can be applied to characterize a complex structure in order to identify energetically relevant residues (hot-spots) and estimate binding affinity changes upon mutation to alanine.

Availability and implementation

The server does not require registration by the user and is freely accessible for academics at https://life.bsc.es/pid/pydockeneres.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Extracolonic Cancer Risk After Total Colectomy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Mark-Christensen Anders , Erichsen Rune , Veres Katalin , Laurberg Søren , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: December 2019

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at increased risk of extracolonic cancers. Little is known regarding this risk following total colectomy [TC].

Methods

Patients who underwent TC for inflammatory bowel disease in Denmark during 1977–2013 were identified from the Danish National Patient Registry. Incidence rates of extracolonic cancers were determined through record linkage to the Danish Cancer Registry and compared with expected incidence rates in the general population. Standardized incidence ratios [SIRs] were calculated as the observed vs expected cancer incidence.

Results

In total, 4430 patients (3441 with ulcerative colitis [UC]; 989 with Crohn’s disease [CD]) were followed for 54,183 person-years after TC. Following their surgery, 372 patients were diagnosed with extracolonic cancer compared to 331 expected [SIR = 1.1 (95% confidence interval {CI}: 1.0–1.2)]. The risk of extracolonic cancer overall was increased among patients with CD and TC (SIR = 1.5 [95% CI: 1.2–1.8]), but not among patients with UC and TC (SIR = 1.0 [95% CI: 0.9–1.2]). Patients with UC and TC had a higher risk of intestinal extracolonic cancer (SIR = 2.0 [95% CI: 1.4–2.7]). Patients with CD and TC had a higher risk of smoking-related cancers (SIR = 1.9 [95% CI: 1.2–2.9]), intestinal extracolonic cancer (SIR = 3.1 [95% CI: 1.6–5.5]) and immune-mediated cancers (SIR = 1.5 [95% CI: 1.0–2.1]).

Conclusion

Patients with CD and TC had a higher risk of extracolonic cancer overall compared to the general population, while patients with UC and TC did not. Site-specific cancer risk varied according to inflammatory bowel disease type.
How Should We Think about the Winners and Losers from Globalization? A Reply to Nicolas Lamp
Authors: Hoekman Bernard , Nelson Douglas
Published: December 2019

How should we think about the winners and losers from globalization? What role can narrative analysis play in doing so? We argue that to be useful, identifying politically relevant narratives on the distributional effects of globalization, and the role played by trade agreements in fostering such effects, must have an empirical basis. Characterizing different narratives and inferring from each the implications for the (re-)design of international agreements without analysis whether the suggested policy reforms will help losers from globalization does not advance matters. Effectively employed, narrative analysis can extend our knowledge of the politics of trade and policy towards globalization more generally. To do so, it must have an analytical foundation, centre on the relationship of the narrative to the facts, ask which narrative is more persuasive based on empirical evidence and assess whether inferred policy implications will address the core issues of concern to those who employ the narrative.
Hearing Impairment, Household Composition, Marital Status, and Mortality Among U.S. Adults
Authors: Denney Justin T , Boardman Jason D
Published: December 2019

Objectives

This study investigates associations between hearing impairment, household composition, marital status, and all-cause mortality for a representative sample of United States adults aged 40 and older (N = 198,902).

Methods

We use data from 11 waves of the National Health Interview Survey (2004–2014) linked to prospective mortality status through 2015. The risk of mortality over the follow-up period is estimated using Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

Compared to those with good to excellent hearing, adults with moderate to severe hearing impairments and deaf adults had 11% and 21% higher risk of death from any cause over the follow-up period, respectively. Household composition and marital status, as indicators of household social support systems, associated independently with the risk of mortality but did not substantively change the association between hearing impairment and mortality.

Discussion

Hearing impairment represents an important contributor to the length of life for adults age 40 and older, independent of other important and established determinants of mortality.
Mantle convection interacting with magma oceans
Authors: Agrusta R , Morison A , Labrosse S , Deguen R , Alboussiére T , Tackley P J , Dubuffet F
Published: December 2019

The presence of a magma ocean may have characterized the beginning of terrestrial planets and, depending on how the solidification has proceeded, the solid mantle may have been in contact with a magma ocean at its upper boundary, its lower boundary, or both, for some period of time. At the interface where the solid is in contact with the liquid the matter can flow through by changing phase, and this affects convection in the solid during magma ocean crystallization. Linear and weakly non-linear analyses have shown that Rayleigh–Bénard flow subject to two liquid–solid phase change boundary conditions is characterized by a non-deforming translation or weakly deforming long wavelength mode at relatively low Rayleigh number. Both modes are expected to transfer heat very efficiently, at least in the range of applicability of weakly non-linear results for the deforming mode. When only one boundary is a phase change, the critical Rayleigh number is also reduced, by a factor of about 4, and the heat transfer is also greatly increased. In this study we use direct numerical simulations in 2-D Cartesian geometry to explore how the solid convection may be affected by these boundary conditions for values of the Rayleigh number extending beyond the range of validity of the weakly non-linear results, up to 103 times the critical value. Our results suggest that solid-state convection during magma ocean crystallization may have been characterized by a very efficient mass and heat transfer, with a heat flow and velocity at the least twice the value previously thought when only one magma ocean is present, above or below. In the situation with a magma ocean above and below, we show that the convective heat flow through the solid layer could reach values of the same order as that of the black-body radiation at the surface of the magma ocean.
A simple and general macroscopic model for local-deformation effects in fluid-saturated porous rock
Authors: Deng Wubing , Morozov Igor B
Published: December 2019

Wave-induced fluid flows (WIFF) can be viewed as cases of broader local-deformation (LD) phenomena and represent the principal causes of seismic-wave attenuation in fluid-saturated porous rock. Most existing WIFF models refer to greatly simplified microstructures and specific flow patterns, such as planar divergent flows within thin cracks (squirt flows, SF) or flows within patchy-saturation zones. However, such microstructures represent only idealized mathematical models that may be impossible to consistently identify within a given rock. At the same time, most details of such microstructures are insignificant for seismic waves, which are only sensitive to averaged properties of the medium. To perform microstructure-independent modelling of LD effects, we develop a simple yet general approach based entirely on a macroscopic local-deformation variable. This variable is broadly analogous to Biot's fluid content and is illustrated for two specific microstructural models. The macroscopic model is Biot-consistent and uses only time- and frequency-independent material properties. Both local and global (Biot's) pore flows and all types of waves and deformations are explained in a rigorous and consistent manner. The model allows constraining a minimal set of material properties responsible for all observed elastic and anelastic effects in porous rock. Because of making no assumptions about the microstructures and their spatial scales, this approach should comprise at least some of the existing WIFF models. In particular, this model accurately reproduces all attenuation and velocity dispersion spectra predicted by a broadly used SF model. The model also contains effects not considered previously, such as bulk viscosity of pore fluid and viscous coupling between the rock frame and fluid-filled pores. The model offers straightforward extensions to multiple porosities and cases of viscous fluids in primary pores. Based on the resulting differential equations, physically consistent schemes for numerical modelling of seismic wavefields can be developed for porous rock with arbitrary LD effects.
Patient eligibility for application of a two-filter cerebral embolic protection device during transcatheter aortic valve implantation: does one size fit all?
Authors: Voss Stephanie , Schechtl Johanna , Nöbauer Christian , Bleiziffer Sabine , Lange Rüdiger
Published: December 2019

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to determine the percentage of patients potentially eligible for implantation of the Sentinel™ Cerebral Protection System (Sentinel-CPS) during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and to identify the reasons for treatment exclusion.

METHODS

We retrospectively performed an analysis of pre-TAVI multislice computed tomography (MSCT) aortograms and data review of all patients undergoing a TAVI procedure in 2017 (n = 317). MSCT evaluation included the assessment of aortic arch anatomy and the vascular dimensions of the brachiocephalic and left common carotid artery. Data analysis focused on comorbid conditions, precluding 6-Fr sheath radial access and filter deployment due to history of previous artery interventions.

RESULTS

MSCT and data analysis showed Sentinel-CPS compatibility in 61.5% of patients (n = 195). Sentinel-CPS would have been contraindicated in 38.5% (n = 122) due to one or more of the following: (i) measured diameters of the filter-landing zones <9 or >15 mm in the brachiocephalic artery and <6.5 or >10 mm in the left common carotid artery (n = 116; 88 with carotid dimensions too small); (ii) significant subclavian artery stenosis (n = 4) or an aberrant subclavian artery (n = 3) precluding Sentinel-CPS implantation and (iii) clinical characteristics including hypersensitivity to nickel–titanium (n = 1), radial artery occlusion (n = 1) or previous left common carotid artery interventions (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

MSCT and clinical data supported Sentinel-CPS compatibility in 61.5% of patients. The most common reason for treatment exclusion was inappropriate diameter within the target landing zone of the left carotid artery. Future device development should address this limitation.
Declining regional disparities in mortality in the context of persisting large inequalities in economic conditions: the case of Germany
Authors: van Raalte Alyson A , Klüsener Sebastian , Oksuzyan Anna , Grigoriev Pavel
Published: December 2019

Background

Subnational regional mortality inequalities are large and appear to be mostly increasing within industrialized countries, although comparative studies across high-income countries are scarce. Germany is an important country to examine because it continues to experience considerable economic disparities between its federal states, in part resulting from its former division.

Methods

We analyse state-level mortality in Germany utilizing data from a newly constructed regional database based on the methodology of the Human Mortality Database. We compare time trends (1991–2015) in the German state-level standard deviation in life expectancy to that of other large, wealthy countries and examine the association between mortality and economic inequalities at the regional level. Finally, using contour-decomposition methods, we investigate the degree to which age patterns of mortality are converging across German federal states.

Results

Regional inequalities in life expectancy in Germany are comparatively low internationally, particularly among women, despite high state-level inequalities in economic conditions. These low regional mortality inequalities emerged 5–10 years after reunification. Mortality is converging over most ages between the longest- and shortest-living German state populations and across the former East–West political border, with the exception of an emerging East–West divergence in mortality among working-aged men.

Conclusions

The German example shows that large regional economic inequalities are not necessarily paralleled with large regional mortality disparities. Future research should investigate the factors that fostered the emergence of this unusual pattern in Germany.
Existence and Density of General Components of the Noether–Lefschetz Locus on Normal Threefolds
Authors: Bruzzo Ugo , Grassi Antonella , Lopez Angelo Felice
Published: December 2019

We consider the Noether–Lefschetz problem for surfaces in ${\mathbb Q}$-factorial normal 3-folds with rational singularities. We show the existence of components of the Noether–Lefschetz locus of maximal codimension, and that there are indeed infinitely many of them. Moreover, we show that their union is dense in the natural topology.
Rural–urban differences in home-based care willingness among older adults: A cross-sectional study in Shandong, China
Authors: Xia Yu , Xu Lingzhong , Sun Long , Li Jiajia , Qin Wenzhe , Zhang Jiao , Wang Yali , Jing Xiang , Lu Lu , Li Yaozu , Jiao Anan
Published: December 2019

Objective

To examine the rural–urban disparities of home-based care willingness among older adults and identify the influencing factors.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

The data used in this cross-sectional study were conducted in Shandong province.

Study participants

7070 older adults (60 years and older) with complete data were included in this analysis from the 2017 Survey of the Shandong Elderly Family Health Service.

Intervention

N/A.

Main outcome measure

The data were analyzed using logistic regression models to examine whether socio-demographic characteristic, physical health, loneliness score and other factors were associated with home-based care willingness in rural and urban older adults. After exploring the factors, we compared the difference.

Results

Of 7070 participants, 66.9% were rural older adults and 33.1% were urban. The urban older adults less likely chose home-based care than the rural (OR = 0.667; P < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis showed that age (P < 0.05), income (P < 0.05), current employment (P < 0.05) and loneliness (P < 0.05) were significantly associated with the home-based care willingness both in rural and urban residence. Besides, the number of family members (P = 0.010), education years (P = 0.026) and financial support from children (P = 0.017) were associated factors of rural respondents’ home-based care willingness. The bad self-reported-health-status-urban-older adults (P = 0.026) were more willing for home-based care.

Conclusions

The research we have done suggests that there is a residence difference toward home-based care willingness among older adults. Targeted policies and an age-friendly environment should be made for different subgroups of older adults.
Metallo-β-lactamase resistance in Enterobacteriaceae is an artefact of currently utilized antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods
Authors: Asempa Tomefa E , Abdelraouf Kamilia , Nicolau David P
Published: December 2019

Background

MBLs are a major contributor to β-lactam resistance when tested using CAMHB. Despite in vitro resistance, positive outcomes have been reported in MBL-infected patients following carbapenem treatment. The impact of physiological zinc concentrations on this in vitro–in vivo MBL discordance warrants investigation.

Objectives

To evaluate meropenem in vitro activity against MBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae in zinc-depleted broth (Chelex-CAMHB, EDTA-CAMHB) and assess meropenem efficacy in murine infection models.

Methods

Neutropenic mice received a meropenem human-simulated regimen of 2 g q8h or levofloxacin 750 mg q24h (for model validation). Zinc concentrations were determined in conventional CAMHB, zinc-depleted CAMHB and epithelial lining fluid (ELF) of lung-infected mice.

Results

All MBL-producing isolates (NDM, n = 25; VIM, n = 3; IMP, n = 2) examined were meropenem resistant in CAMHB and susceptible in zinc-depleted CAMHB (5- to 11-fold reduction), with zinc depletion having no impact on levofloxacin MICs. Zinc concentrations (mean ± SD) in CAMHB were 0.959 ± 0.038 mg/L and in both zinc-depleted CAMHB and ELF were <0.002 mg/L. In vivo, levofloxacin displayed predictable efficacy consistent with its phenotypic profile, while meropenem produced >1 log unit bacterial killing despite in vitro resistance in conventional CAMHB.

Conclusions

Results indicate that meropenem in vivo efficacy is best represented by the pharmacodynamic profile generated using MICs determined in zinc-depleted media for MBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae. These translational data suggest that the use of conventional CAMHB for MBL susceptibility testing is inappropriate in distinguishing meaningful in vivo resistance given that zinc concentrations are supraphysiological in conventional CAMHB and negligible at infection sites.
Apoptotic Markers in the Midbrain of the Human Neonate After Perinatal Hypoxic/Ischemic Injury
Authors: Pagida Marianna A , Konstantinidou Anastasia E , Chrysanthou-Piterou Margarita A , Patsouris Efstratios S , Panayotacopoulou Maria T
Published: December 2019

Our previous postmortem studies on neonates with neuropathological injury of perinatal hypoxia/ischemia (PHI) showed a dramatic reduction of tyrosine hydroxylase expression (dopamine synthesis enzyme) in substantia nigra (SN) neurons, with reduction of their cellular size. In order to investigate if the above observations represent an early stage of SN degeneration, we immunohistochemically studied the expression of cleaved caspase-3 (CCP3), apoptosis inducing factor (AIF), and DNA fragmentation by using terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin 3′-end-labeling (TUNEL) technique in the SN of 22 autopsied neonates (corrected age ranging from 34 to 46.5 gestational weeks), in relation to the severity/duration of PHI injury, as estimated by neuropathological criteria. No CCP3-immunoreactive neurons and a limited number of apoptotic TUNEL-positive neurons with pyknotic characteristics were found in the SN. Nuclear AIF staining was revealed only in few SN neurons, indicating the presence of early signs of AIF-mediated degeneration. By contrast, motor neurons of the oculomotor nucleus showed higher cytoplasmic AIF expression and nuclear translocation, possibly attributed to the combined effect of developmental processes and increased oxidative stress induced by antemortem and postmortem factors. Our study indicates the activation of AIF, but not CCP3, in the SN and oculomotor nucleus of the human neonate in the developmentally critical perinatal period.