bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Formation and characterization of the gas–solid phase in rice cake fermented with Brettanomyces (ZSM‐001) and Lactobacillus (ZSM‐002)
Authors: Chen Chen , Wen Ya , Jia CaiHua , Zhao SiMing , Niu Meng , Zhang BinJia , Xiong ShanBai 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThe formation and characteristics of the gas–solid phase in rice cakes fermented with Brettanomyces custersii (ZSM‐001) and Lactobacillus plantarum (ZSM‐002) were investigated. The morphological structure and microstructure of fermented rice cakes were observed with a LIDE 210 scanner and a confocal laser scanning microscope respectively. The results showed that the number of holes significantly increased through the whole phase, whereas the average pore size initially decreased significantly, and then increased during 8–12 hr. In addition, differences in pressure and temperature promoted the combination of bubbles, resulting in the appearance of radial morphological structures during the steaming process. This study found that the main ingredients were linked to the morphological structure and microstructural characteristics of fermented rice cake, further influencing the texture. The content of soluble protein and water at 12 hr were 2.66 mg/g and 50.76%, and the amount of reduce sugar at 8 hr was 46.45 mg/g. These maximums could contribute to the formation of more holes with smaller size, and improve the pliable and viscoelastic texture (i.e., 596.73 g of hardness, 0.97 of elasticity, and 0.78 of viscosity). Overall, this work may provide a theoretical basis for the quality control of fermented rice cake.Practical ApplicationsA high content of soluble protein and moisture in the rice paste could promote the formation of the film, wrapping of bubbles and development of dense holes. More and smaller bubbles could generate a uniform continuous solid matrix, resulting in the ideal textural parameters of fermented rice cake (low hardness, high elasticity, and high viscosity). This work may provide a theoretical basis for the quality control of fermented rice cake through an improved understanding of the gas–solid phase formation.
Glia to neuron ratio in the posterior aspect of the human spinal cord at thoracic segments relevant to spinal cord stimulation
Authors: Ruiz‐Sauri Amparo , Orduña‐Valls Jorge M. , Blasco‐Serra Arantxa , Tornero‐Tornero Carlos , Cedeño David L. , Bejarano‐Quisoboni Daniel , Valverde‐Navarro Alfonso A. , Benyamin Ramsin , Vallejo Ricardo 
Published: July 2019

AbstractSpinal cord stimulation (SCS) applied between T8 and T11 segments has been shown to be effective for the treatment of chronic pain of the lower back and limbs. However, the mechanism of the analgesic effect at these medullary levels remains unclear. Numerous studies relate glial cells with development and maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain. Glial cells are electrically excitable, which makes them a potential therapeutic target using SCS. The aim of this study is to report glia to neuron ratio in thoracic segments relevant to SCS, as well as to characterize the glia cell population at these levels. Dissections from gray and white matter of posterior spinal cord segments (T8, T9, intersection T9/T10, T10 and T11) were obtained from 11 human cadavers for histological analyses. Neuronal bodies and glial cells (microglia, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes) were immunostained, microphotographed and counted using image analysis software. Statistical analyses were carried out to establish significant differences of neuronal and glial populations among the selected segments, between the glial cells in a segment, and glial cells in white and gray matter. Results show that glia to neuron ratio in the posterior gray matter of the human spinal cord within the T8–T11 vertebral region is in the range 11 : 1 to 13 : 1, although not significantly different among vertebral segments. Glia cells are more abundant in gray matter than in white matter, whereas astrocytes and oligodendrocytes are more abundant than microglia (40 : 40 : 20). Interestingly, the population of oligodendrocytes in the T9/T10 intersection is significantly larger than in any other segment. In conclusion, glial cells are the predominant bodies in the posterior gray and white matter of the T8–T11 segments of the human spinal cord. Given the crucial role of glial cells in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain, and their electrophysiological characteristics, anatomical determination of the ratio of different cell populations in spinal segments commonly exposed to SCS is fundamental to understand fully the biological effects observed with this therapy.
Melatonin reduces inflammatory response in human intestinal epithelial cells stimulated by interleukin‐1β
Authors: Mannino Giuseppe , Caradonna Fabio , Cruciata Ilenia , Lauria Antonino , Perrone Anna , Gentile Carla 
Published: July 2019

AbstractMelatonin is the main secretory product of the pineal gland, and it is involved in the regulation of periodic events. A melatonin production independent of the photoperiod is typical of the gut. However, the local physiological role of melatonin at the intestinal tract is poorly characterized. In this study, we evaluated the anti‐inflammatory activities of melatonin in an in vitro model of inflamed intestinal epithelium. To this purpose, we assessed different parameters usually associated with intestinal inflammation using IL‐1β‐stimulated Caco‐2 cells. Differentiated monolayers of Caco‐2 cells were preincubated with melatonin (1 nmol/L‐50 μmol/L) and then exposed to IL‐1β. After each treatment, different inflammatory mediators, DNA‐breakage, and global DNA methylation status were assayed. To evaluate the involvement of melatonin membrane receptors, we also exposed differentiated monolayers to melatonin in the presence of luzindole, a MT1 and MT2 antagonist. Our results showed that melatonin, at concentrations similar to those obtained in the lumen gut after ingestion of dietary supplements for the treatment of sleep disorders, was able to attenuate the inflammatory response induced by IL‐1β. Anti‐inflammatory effects were expressed as both a decrease of the levels of inflammatory mediators, including IL‐6, IL‐8, COX‐2, and NO, and a reduced increase in paracellular permeability. Moreover, the protection was associated with a reduced NF‐κB activation and a prevention of DNA demethylation. Conversely, luzindole did not reverse the melatonin inhibition of stimulated‐IL‐6 release. In conclusion, our findings suggest that melatonin, through a local action, can modulate inflammatory processes at the intestinal level, offering new opportunities for a multimodal management of IBD.
STAT1‐NFκB crosstalk triggered by interferon gamma regulates noradrenaline‐induced pineal hormonal production
Authors: Barbosa Lima Leila Eliza , Muxel Sandra Marcia , Kinker Gabriela S. , Carvalho‐Sousa Cláudia Emanuele , da Silveira Cruz‐Machado Sanseray , Markus Regina P. , Fernandes Pedro Augusto Carlos Magno 
Published: July 2019

AbstractMelatonin production by pineal glands is modulated by several immune signals. The nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa‐B (NFκB) homodimers, lacking transactivation domains, once induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF), inhibits the expression of Aanat gene and the synthesis of noradrenaline (NA)‐induced melatonin. Interferon gamma (IFN‐γ), on the other hand, increases melatonin synthesis. Furthermore, this cytokine activates the signal transducer as well as the activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) pathway, which was never evaluated as a melatonin synthesis modulator before. Reports demonstrated that IFN‐γ might also activate NFκB. The present study evaluated the role of STAT1‐NFκB crosstalk triggered by IFN‐γ regarding the regulation of NA‐induced pineal glands’ hormonal production. Moreover, IFN‐γ treatment increased NA‐induced Aanat transcription, in addition to the synthesis of N‐acetylserotonin (NAS) and melatonin. These effects were associated with STAT1 nuclear translocation, confirmed by the co‐immunoprecipitation of STAT1 and Aanat promoter. Pharmacological STAT1 enhancement augmented NA‐induced Aanat transcription as well as NAS and melatonin production. Additionally, IFN‐γ induced the nuclear translocation of RelA‐NFκB subunits. The blockade of this pathway prevented IFN‐γ effects on the pineal function. The present data show that STAT1 and NFκB crosstalk controls melatonin production through a synergistic mechanism, disclosing a new integrative mechanism regarding pineal hormonal activity control.
Young drivers who continue to drive while sleepy: What are the associated sleep‐ and driving‐related factors?
Authors: Watling Christopher N. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractCrashes due to sleepiness account for a substantial proportion of road crash incidents. The purpose of the current study was to examine several sleep‐related factors and driving‐related factors for their association with self‐reports of continuing to drive while sleepy. In total 257 young drivers aged 18–25 years completed an online survey that assessed factors such as sleep quality, sleep duration and consistency, excessive daytime sleepiness, experiences with sleepiness and their driving‐related behaviours. The results demonstrate that being older, having a perceived ability to overcome sleepiness, committing more highway code violations and having experienced a sleep‐related close call were positively associated with an increased likelihood of continuing to drive while sleepy. The obtained results highlight the acceptance of risky driving behaviours among some younger drivers. Younger drivers’ risky driving behaviour is certainly a road safety concern given the impairment associated with sleepiness and their over‐representation in road crash incidents.
Identifying dimensions of fatigue in haemodialysis important to patients, caregivers and health professionals: An international survey
Authors: Ju Angela , Unruh Mark , Davison Sara N , Dapueto Juan , Dew Mary A , Fluck Richard , Germain Michael , Jassal Sarbjit V , Obrador Gregorio , O'Donoghue Donal , Howell Martin , O'Lone Emma , Shen Jenny I , Craig Jonathan C , Tong Allison ,   for The SONG‐HD Initiative
Published: July 2019

ABSTRACTBackgroundPatient‐reported outcome measures of fatigue used in research in haemodialysis vary widely in the dimensions assessed; and the importance of these dimensions to patients and health professionals is unknown. This study aimed to identify the most important dimensions of fatigue to assess in patients on haemodialysis participating in trials.MethodsIn an international survey, patients/caregivers and health professionals rated the absolute and relative importance of content and measurement dimensions to include in a core outcome measure of fatigue. A 9‐point Likert scale (7–9 indicating critical importance) was used to assess absolute importance and best‐worst scale was used to assess importance of each dimension compared to others.ResultsIn total, 169 patients/caregivers and 336 health professionals from 60 countries completed the survey. Both groups (patients/caregivers and health professionals) rated life participation (7.55), tiredness (7.40), level of energy (7.37), ability to think clearly (7.15), post‐dialysis fatigue (7.13), motivation (7.03) and ability to concentrate (7.03) as critically important (mean Likert score greater than 7) content dimensions to include in a core outcome measure. Compared to patients and caregivers, health professionals rated post‐dialysis fatigue, memory and verbal abilities more highly. Based on the relative importance scores, life participation was ranked most highly above all content dimensions. Severity was rated and ranked the most important measurement dimension by all stakeholders.ConclusionA core outcome measure of fatigue should assess impact of fatigue on life participation, tiredness and level of energy, using a severity scale. A consistent and valid measurement of fatigue will improve the value of trials in supporting decision‐making based on this important outcome.
On the evolutionary significance of horizontal gene transfers in plants
Authors: Wickell David A. , Li Fay‐Wei 
Published: July 2019

SummaryHorizontal gene transfer (HGT) has long been seen as a crucial process in the evolution of prokaryotic species, but until recently it was thought to have little, if any, effect on the evolution of eukaryotic life forms. Detecting and describing HGT events in eukaryotes is difficult, making this phenomenon at times controversial. However, modern advances in genomics and bioinformatics have radically altered our view of HGT in eukaryotes, especially in plants. It now appears that HGT to and from plant lineages is more common than previously suspected. Importantly, the transfer of functional nuclear genes with adaptive significance has been reported in numerous taxa. Here we review several recent studies that have found evidence of the horizontal transfer of nuclear genes, and argue that HGT has undoubtedly had profound impacts on plant evolution as a whole.
The association between psychological stress and metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kuo Wan‐chin , Bratzke Lisa C. , Oakley Linda D. , Kuo Fanglin , Wang Haocen , Brown Roger L. 
Published: July 2019

SummaryLiterature suggests that occupational stress is associated with a higher risk of metabolic syndrome; yet less is known whether other sources of stress have similar effects. This review aims to examine whether the relationship between psychological stress and metabolic syndrome differs by sources of stress. Three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL) were searched for eligible articles; meta‐analyses were conducted using the random effects model. After controlling for covariates, adults in the high‐stress groups had 45% higher chance of having metabolic syndrome than adults in the low‐stress groups (odds ratio [OR] = 1.450; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.211‐1.735; P < .001). The subsequent meta‐analysis based on cross‐sectional studies suggested that occupational stress showed the strongest effect (OR = 1.692; 95% CI, 1.182‐2.424; P = .004), while perceived general stress showed the weakest effect (OR = 1.217; 95% CI, 1.017‐1.457; P = .032). Unfortunately, there is a lack of longitudinal studies for subsequent meta‐analysis based on sources of stress. There is a need for continued research to examine the long‐term relationship between different sources of stress and the risk of metabolic syndrome. Traditional recommendations for preventing metabolic syndrome (eg, low‐fat diet and exercise) may not achieve the best outcome if clinicians overlook patients' psychosocial stress.
I becomes we, but where is me? The unity–division paradox when caring for a relative with dementia: A qualitative study
Authors: Tierney Stephanie , Tutton Elizabeth , Seers Kate 
Published: July 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe number of older people living with dementia is increasing. Admiral Nurses work with these individuals and their families in the UK to manage challenges associated with the condition, providing guidance, advice and reassurance, alongside practical solutions.AimTo explore the input of Admiral Nurses as part of people's journey to becoming and being a carer for someone with dementia.DesignA qualitative study was conducted to describe and understand how Admiral Nurses are experienced and encountered by carers as part of their narrative around supporting a relative with dementia.MethodsSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with 19 carers between November 2017–April 2018. They lasted between 45 and 90 min. Thematic analysis was used to interpret data.FindingsAn overarching concept of “the unity–division paradox” was derived from the data. This highlights the complex interchange between the carer with (a) the person with dementia, (b) other individuals and (c) external services. Such interactions can make carers feel part of a larger network (unity) but also as if they are on their own, fighting on behalf of the person with dementia (division). This concept was underpinned by the following themes: (a) I becomes we; (b) My private world is encroached by dementia; (c) I’m left navigating an unwieldy system; (d) Are you with or against us?; and (e) Recreating boundaries to rediscover me.ConclusionThe identity and unique characteristics and interests of those caring for a person with dementia may be lost as they encounter tensions associated with the unity–division paradox. Admiral Nurses can help carers feel less alone in managing internal and external struggles by supporting them to do their best for a loved one with dementia.Implications for practiceUnderstanding carers’ experience and supporting their work may help to increase and sustain their capacity to provide care.
Clinical and brain structural effects of the Illness Management and Recovery program in middle‐aged and older patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Nakamura Ryota , Asami Takeshi , Yoshimi Asuka , Kato Daiji , Fujita Emi , Takaishi Masao , Yoshida Haruhisa , Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Shiozaki Kazumasa , Kase Akihiko , Hirayasu Yoshio 
Published: July 2019

AimsIn this study, we implemented the Illness Management and Recovery (IMR) program for middle‐aged and older patients with schizophrenia hospitalized for long periods and assessed the effect of the IMR program on psychiatric symptoms and psychosocial function. The effects of the IMR program on brain structure were also evaluated.MethodsThe IMR program was implemented for 19 patients with schizophrenia; 17 patients with schizophrenia receiving treatment as usual (TAU) were also recruited as controls. In all patients, mean age was 61.4 years (range, 50–77 years) and mean hospitalization duration was 13.1 years (range, 1–31 years) at enrollment. Structural magnetic resonance images and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scores as clinical variables were obtained at the beginning and end of the IMR program. Longitudinal analyses were performed to compare the effects of the IMR program on clinical symptoms and cortical thickness in the superior temporal gyrus (STG) between the IMR and TAU groups.ResultsSignificant improvements in GAF scores and the total, Insight and Judgment, and Positive components of the PANSS were found in the IMR group compared with the TAU group. Cortical thickness in the left STG was preserved in the IMR group compared with the TAU group.ConclusionsThis is the first report demonstrating the effectiveness of the IMR program for improving psychotic symptoms and psychosocial function and protecting brain structure in middle‐aged and older inpatients with schizophrenia hospitalized for long periods.
Application of the Integrated Behavioral Model to oral self‐care behavior of community‐dwelling middle‐aged and older people in Taiwan
Authors: Ho Mu‐Hsing , (Rita) Chang Hui‐Chen , Lin Yen‐Kuang , Traynor Victoria , Tsai Hung‐Huey , Buckwalter Kathleen , Liu Megan F. , Chang Chia‐Chi 
Published: July 2019

AbstractObjectivesThis study evaluated the Integrated Behavioral Model and examined oral self‐care behavior of community‐dwelling middle‐aged and older people.DesignA cross‐sectional design was used.SamplePurposive sampling was employed to recruit middle and older age community‐dwelling individuals, with research locations in public health centers in northern Taiwan.MeasurementsStructured questionnaires comprised: participant demographics, oral health literacy, oral self‐care attitude, self‐efficacy, intention, and behavior, and significant others' perceptions and beliefs as well as environmental constraints. The Model verification was evaluated by path analysis.ResultsTwo hundred and sixty‐three participants (N = 263) completed the questionnaire survey. Results identified significant direct effects of the independent variables of oral health care literacy, intention of oral self‐care, and perception of environmental constraints on the dependent variable of oral self‐care behavior; and significant indirect effects on attitude of oral self‐care, perception of significant other beliefs, self‐efficacy of oral self‐care.ConclusionPublic health nurses work with the whole community and can potentially improve the oral self‐care behavior of middle‐aged and older adults by enhancing their oral health knowledge, maintaining their positive attitudes, assisting acceptance of recognition and support from others, increasing their ability to perform oral self‐care, reducing environmental constraints, and thereby enhancing their oral self‐care awareness.
Foreign Aid, Instability, and Governance in Africa
Authors: Asongu Simplice A. , Nnanna Joseph 
Published: July 2019

This article contributes to the attendant literature by bundling governance dynamics and focusing on foreign aid instability instead of foreign aid. We assess the role of foreign aid instability on governance dynamics in 53 African countries for the period 1996‐2010. An autoregressive endogeneity‐robust generalized method of moments is employed. Instabilities are measured in terms of variance of the errors and standard deviations. Three main aid indicators are used, namely: total aid, aid from multilateral donors, and bilateral aid. Principal component analysis is used to bundle governance indicators, namely: political governance (voice and accountability and political stability/no violence), economic governance (regulation quality and government effectiveness), institutional governance (rule of law and corruption control), and general governance (political, economic, and institutional governance). Our findings show that foreign aid instability increases governance standards, especially political and general governance. Policy implications are discussed.Related ArticlesBeal, Amanda L., and Leah Graham. 2014. “Foundations for Change: Rule of Law, Development, and Democratization.” Politics & Policy 42 (3): 311‐345. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12077Fails, Matthew D. 2014. “Leader Turnover, Volatility, and Political Risk.” Politics & Policy 42 (3): 369‐399. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12078Jakubow, Alexander. 2014. “State Intervention and Life Satisfaction Reconsidered: The Role of Governance Quality and Resource Misallocation.” Politics & Policy 42 (1): 3‐36. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12057