bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High‐Resolution Melting (HRM) of Hypervariable Mitochondrial DNA Regions for Forensic Science
Authors: dos Santos Rocha Alípio , de Amorim Isis Salviano Soares , Simão Tatiana de Almeida , da Fonseca Adenilson de Souza , Garrido Rodrigo Grazinoli , Mencalha Andre Luiz 
Published: August 2017

AbstractForensic strategies commonly are proceeding by analysis of short tandem repeats (STRs); however, new additional strategies have been proposed for forensic science. Thus, this article standardized the high‐resolution melting (HRM) of DNA for forensic analyzes. For HRM, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from eight individuals were extracted from mucosa swabs by DNAzol reagent, samples were amplified by PCR and submitted to HRM analysis to identify differences in hypervariable (HV) regions I and II. To confirm HRM, all PCR products were DNA sequencing. The data suggest that is possible discriminate DNA from different samples by HRM curves. Also, uncommon dual‐dissociation was identified in a single PCR product, increasing HRM analyzes by evaluation of melting peaks. Thus, HRM is accurate and useful to screening small differences in HVI and HVII regions from mtDNA and increase the efficiency of laboratory routines based on forensic genetics.
The Accuracy and Applicability of 3D Modeling and Printing Blunt Force Cranial Injuries
Authors: Edwards Julie , Rogers Tracy 
Published: August 2017

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to determine the factors affecting the accuracy of 3D models and 3D prints of cranial blunt force trauma, to evaluate the applicability and limitations of modeling such injuries. Three types of cranial blunt force lesions were documented (hinge, depressed, and comminuted) using three forms of surface scanning (laser, structured light scanner, and photogrammetry) at two different quality settings (standard and high). 3D printed models of the lesions were produced using two different materials (a gypsum‐like composite powder called VisiJet® PXL and an acrylic engineered composite plastic called VisiJet® M3 in crystal colour). The results of these analyzes indicate the prints in this study exhibit some statistically significant differences from the actual bone lesions, but details of the lesions can be reproduced to within 2 mm accuracy.
Composition and Nutrient Value Proposition of Brewers Spent Grain
Authors: Ikram Sana , Huang LianYan , Zhang Huijuan , Wang Jing , Yin Meng 
Published: August 2017

AbstractBrewer's spent grain (BSG), a major brewing industry byproduct, is generated in large quantities annually. This review summarizes research into the composition and preservation of BSG, different extraction techniques for BSG proteins and phenolic acids, and the bioactivities of these phenolic components. Moreover, this article also highlights BSG integration into foodstuff for human consumption and animal feed supplements. BSG is considered a rich source of fiber, protein, and phenolic compounds. The phenolic acids present in BSG are hydroxycinnamic acids (ferulic, p‐coumaric, and caffeic acids), which have many biofunctions, such as antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antiatherogenic, and antiinflammatory activities. Previously, attempts have been made to integrate BSG into human food, such as ready‐to‐eat snacks, cookies and bread, to increase fiber and protein contents. The addition of BSG to animal feed leads to increased milk yields, higher fat contents in milk, and is a good source of essential amino acids. Therefore, many studies have concluded that integrating the biofunctional compounds in BSG into human food and animal feed has various health benefits.
Effects of Polysaccharides in Lycium Barbarum Berries from Different Regions of China on Macrophages Function and their Correlation to the Glycosidic Linkages
Authors: Xie Jing , Wu Ding‐Tao , Li Wen‐Zhi , Ning Chu‐Guang , Tang Yu‐Ping , Zhao Jing , Li Shao‐Ping 
Published: August 2017

AbstractBerries of Lycium barbarum L. are not only used for traditional Chinese medicine, but also for raw materials in many health foods. Polysaccharides are major components of L. barbarum berries, which possess a variety of biological activities. In this study, effects of water‐soluble polysaccharides, in 8 typical batches of L. barbarum berries collected from different producing areas of China, on macrophage function were evaluated in vitro. Furthermore, to better understand the structure–activity relationship of the polysaccharides in L. barbarum berries, the activity of typical polysaccharides and their partial acid and enzymatic hydrolysates were also investigated and compared. The results showed that the effects of polysaccharides of different regions are similar, which should be correlated to their similar chemical properties. However, their promotion effects on macrophage function are different in degree, this might be caused by their different content of active polysaccharides. Moreover, the α‐1,4‐d‐galactosiduronic and α‐1,5‐arabinosidic linkages, especially the former one was discovered to significantly affect the promotion effect on macrophage function induced by the polysaccharides in L. barbarum berries. These results were beneficial to improve the pharmacological activity‐based quality control of polysaccharides in L. barbarum berries and their products.Practical ApplicationThe results showed that immunomodulation effects of polysaccharides in L. barbarum berries (LBPs) from different regions are similar, but different in degree, this might be caused by their different content of bioactive polysaccharides. Moreover, an enzymatic digestion method was used to investigate the structure–bioactivity relationship of polysaccharides from LBPs. The result indicated that α‐1,4‐d‐galactosiduronic and α‐1,5‐arabinosidic linkages, especially the former one was significantly affect the immunomodulation effects of LBPs. The results were beneficial to the improvement of pharmacological activity‐based quality control of LBPs and future development of related unique functional and health products.
Caffeine May Reduce Perceived Sweet Taste in Humans, Supporting Evidence That Adenosine Receptors Modulate Taste
Authors: Choo Ezen , Picket Benjamin , Dando Robin 
Published: August 2017

AbstractMultiple recent reports have detailed the presence of adenosine receptors in sweet sensitive taste cells of mice. These receptors are activated by endogenous adenosine in the plasma to enhance sweet signals within the taste bud, before reporting to the primary afferent. As we commonly consume caffeine, a powerful antagonist for such receptors, in our daily lives, an intriguing question we sought to answer was whether the caffeine we habitually consume in coffee can inhibit the perception of sweet taste in humans. 107 panelists were randomly assigned to 2 groups, sampling decaffeinated coffee supplemented with either 200 mg of caffeine, about the level found in a strong cup of coffee, or an equally bitter concentration of quinine. Participants subsequently performed sensory testing, with the session repeated in the alternative condition in a second session on a separate day. Panelists rated both the sweetened coffee itself and subsequent sucrose solutions as less sweet in the caffeine condition, despite the treatment having no effect on bitter, sour, salty, or umami perception. Panelists were also unable to discern whether they had consumed the caffeinated or noncaffeinated coffee, with ratings of alertness increased equally, but no significant improvement in reaction times, highlighting coffee's powerful placebo effect. This work validates earlier observations in rodents in a human population.
Identification of Potent ACE Inhibitory Peptides from Wild Almond Proteins
Authors: Mirzapour Mozhgan , Rezaei Karamatollah , Sentandreu Miguel Angel 
Published: August 2017

AbstractIn this study, the production, fractionation, purification and identification of ACE (angiotensin‐I‐converting enzyme) inhibitory peptides from wild almond (Amygdalus scoparia) proteins were investigated. Wild almond proteins were hydrolyzed using 5 different enzymes (pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, alcalase and flavourzyme) and assayed for their ACE inhibitory activities. The degree of ACE inhibiting activity obtained after hydrolysis was found to be in the following order: alcalase > chymotrypsin > trypsin/pepsin > flavourzyme. The hydrolysates obtained from alcalase (IC50 = 0.8 mg/mL) were fractionated by sequential ultrafiltration at 10 and 3 kDa cutoff values and the most active fraction (<3 kDa) was further separated using reversed phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC). Peptide sequence identifications were carried out on highly potential fractions obtained from RP‐HPLC by means of liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization and tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS). Sequencing of ACE inhibitory peptides present in the fraction 26 of RP‐HPLC resulted in the identification of 3 peptide sequences (VVNE, VVTR, and VVGVD) not reported previously in the literature. Sequence identification of fractions 40 and 42 from RP‐HPLC, which showed the highest ACE inhibitory activities (84.1% and 86.9%, respectively), resulted in the identification of more than 40 potential ACE inhibitory sequences. The results indicate that wild almond protein is a rich source of potential antihypertensive peptides and can be suggested for applications in functional foods and drinks with respect to hindrance and mitigation of hypertension after in vivo assessment.Practical ApplicationThis study has shown the potential of wild almond proteins as good sources for producing ACE‐inhibitory active peptides. According to this finding, peptides with higher ACE inhibitory activities could be released during the gastrointestinal digestion and contribute to the health‐ promoting activities of this natural protein source.
Fresh‐Squeezed Orange Juice Properties Before and During In Vitro Digestion as Influenced by Orange Variety and Processing Method
Authors: Mennah‐Govela Yamile A. , Bornhorst Gail M. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractThis study aims to analyze the influence of processing and orange variety on initial quality, antioxidant activity, total polyphenol content (TPC), and ascorbic acid content of fresh‐squeezed orange juice during in vitro digestion. Fresh‐squeezed orange juice was made from Fukumoto Navel, Lane Late Navel, Olinda Nucellar Valencia, and Campbell Valencia oranges, and was processed thermally and nonthermally. Antioxidant activity (FRAP and ABTS assays), TPC (Folin‐Ciocalteu method), and ascorbic acid were analyzed before and after gastrointestinal digestion. Bioaccessibility was calculated by comparing the measured values after digestion with the initial value for each juice. Orange variety significantly influenced pH, acidity, and total soluble solids (P < 0.0001). Antioxidant activity by FRAP was significantly higher (P < 0.0001) in Fukumoto Navel orange juice (16.0 ± 0.4 mM Trolox) than the other juices (range: 9.1 to 10 mM Trolox). TPC was significantly influenced by orange variety (P < 0.0001) and ranged from 521 ± 6 (Campbell Valencia) to 800 ± 11 mg gallic acid/L (Lane Late Navel). Processing method did not influence antioxidant and polyphenol bioaccessibility (P > 0.05). However, antioxidant activity by ABTS and ascorbic acid bioaccessibility were significantly influenced by orange variety (P < 0.0001). These results indicate that fruit variety and nutrient bioaccessibility should be considered to optimize processing and formulation parameters.Practical ApplicationProcessing method and variety of fruit during beverage manufacturing may influence its nutrient bioaccessibility. We present a detailed examination of the influence of orange variety, harvest time, and processing method on initial quality parameters and antioxidant bioaccessibility. It is recommended that nutritional analysis of beverages take into consideration both the bioaccessibility of nutrients and the initial nutrient content of the beverage. These results can be used for juice processors to take into consideration the harvest season and produce variety to manufacture beverages with higher nutritional quality.
Simultaneous Detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enteritidis, and Listeria monocytogenes at a Very Low Level Using Simultaneous Enrichment Broth and Multichannel SPR Biosensor
Authors: Zhang Xiaoguang , Tsuji Sachiko , Kitaoka Hayato , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Tamai Mitsuru , Honjoh Ken‐ichi , Miyamoto Takahisa 
Published: August 2017

AbstractDetection of foodborne pathogens at very low levels is still a challenge. A custom‐built multichannel surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor and simultaneous enrichment broth (SEB) were used to develop a simultaneous detection method for 3 important foodborne pathogens, Escherichia coli O157:H7 (O157:H7), Salmonella enteritidis, and Listeria monocytogenes, at a very low level. These 3 foodborne pathogens at a very low level (14, 6, and 28 CFU/25 g (mL) for O157:H7, S. enteritidis, and L. monocytogenes, respectively) were inoculated in SEB and incubated at 37 ˚C for 24 h. Sample prepared from the simultaneous enrichment culture was analyzed using the multichannel SPR biosensor and sensor chip immobilized with polyclonal antibodies specific to each of the target pathogens. O157:H7, S. enteritidis, and L. monocytogenes in chicken were detected simultaneously at an inoculum dose of 14, 6, and 28 CFU/25 g, respectively. Our method using a custom‐built multichannel SPR biosensor and enrichment in SEB is expected as a rapid and simultaneous detection method for low levels of O157:H7, S. enteritidis, and L. monocytogenes in food.Practical ApplicationOur method is expected as a rapid and simultaneous detection method for pathogens at very low levels. It has great potential for safety control of food and microbiological detection applications.
Validation of a One‐Step Method for Extracting Fatty Acids from Salmon, Chicken and Beef Samples
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Richardson Christine E. , Hennebelle Marie , Taha Ameer Y. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractFatty acid extraction methods are time‐consuming and expensive because they involve multiple steps and copious amounts of extraction solvents. In an effort to streamline the fatty acid extraction process, this study compared the standard Folch lipid extraction method to a one‐step method involving a column that selectively elutes the lipid phase. The methods were tested on raw beef, salmon, and chicken. Compared to the standard Folch method, the one‐step extraction process generally yielded statistically insignificant differences in chicken and salmon fatty acid concentrations, percent composition and weight percent. Initial testing showed that beef stearic, oleic and total fatty acid concentrations were significantly lower by 9–11% with the one‐step method as compared to the Folch method, but retesting on a different batch of samples showed a significant 4–8% increase in several omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acid concentrations with the one‐step method relative to the Folch. Overall, the findings reflect the utility of a one‐step extraction method for routine and rapid monitoring of fatty acids in chicken and salmon. Inconsistencies in beef concentrations, although minor (within 11%), may be due to matrix effects.Practical ApplicationA one‐step fatty acid extraction method has broad applications for rapidly and routinely monitoring fatty acids in the food supply and formulating controlled dietary interventions.
Lifetime cost for type 2 diabetes mellitus in Singapore
Authors: Ang Yee G. , Yap Chun W. , You Alex X. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractBackgroundThe mean annual direct medical cost of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Singapore has been found to be SGD 2034 using the prevalence‐based approach, but the lifetime direct medical cost of T2DM in Singapore remains largely unknown. The aim of the present study was to determine the lifetime direct medical cost attributable to T2DM and provide estimates of potential savings if T2DM can be prevented or delayed.MethodsThe incidence‐based approach was used for the cost‐of‐illness analysis. Yearly medical expenses were obtained from a regional health system database in Singapore to estimate the lifetime medical cost of T2DM patients. Then, the lifetime medical cost of non‐T2DM subjects was predicted using a regression model. From the database, gender‐ and age‐specific annual survival rates of T2DM and non‐T2DM subjects were obtained and survival‐adjusted yearly expenses over the estimated remaining life span were added to obtain lifetime medical costs. The difference between T2DM and non‐T2DM subjects was attributed to excess direct medical costs of T2DM.ResultsThe excess lifetime medical expenses for T2DM patients were SGD 132 506, 108 589, 83 326 and 70 110 when the age of T2DM diagnosis was 40, 50, 60, and 65 years, respectively.ConclusionsEven though T2DM patients have a lower life expectancy, T2DM is associated with substantially higher lifetime medical costs. Delaying the onset of T2DM, especially in the young, may lead to lower lifetime medical expenses. If prevention costs can be kept sufficiently low, effective T2DM prevention efforts would likely lead to a reduction in long‐term medical costs.
Long non‐coding RNA CRALA is associated with poor response to chemotherapy in primary breast cancer
Authors: Li Yudong , Wang Baoxiao , Lai Hongna , Li Shunying , You Qiuting , Fang Yichao , Li Qian , Liu Yujie 
Published: August 2017

BackgroundBreast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and has become the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Chemoresistance has become an important problem in breast cancer clinics. The identification of new mechanisms affecting chemosensitivity is of great clinical value for the treatment of breast cancer.MethodsThe expression levels of chemoresistance‐associated long non‐coding RNA (CRALA), a newly discovered long non‐coding RNA, were measured by quantitative real time‐PCR in 79 pre‐treatment biopsied primary breast cancer samples. Small interfering RNAs were used to knockdown CRALA expression. The effect of CRALA on chemosensitivity was evaluated using cell growth assay.ResultsNon‐responding tumors (poor response to chemotherapy, 32 samples) had fourfold higher CRALA expression than responding tumors (good response to chemotherapy, 47 samples). CRALA is upregulated in chemoresistant breast cancer cell lines compared to their parental lines. Silencing of CRALA in chemoresistant breast cancer cells resensitizes the cells to chemotherapy in vitro. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate analysis showed that higher CRALA expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis in 144 breast cancer patients.ConclusionThe study findings indicate that CRALA expression may be an important biomarker for predicting the clinical response to chemotherapy and prognosis in breast cancer patients. It is possible to target CRALA to reverse chemoresistance in breast cancer patients.
Financial Statement Quality and Debt Contracting: Evidence from a Survey of Commercial Lenders
Authors: Donelson Dain C. , Jennings Ross , Mcinnis John 
Published: August 2017

AbstractWe survey commercial bank lenders to better understand how they evaluate and react to variation in financial statement quality and how they view recent changes in accounting standards. A unique aspect of this study is that our respondents focus on medium‐size loans to private companies. In fact, more than 90 percent of the survey respondents primarily make credit decisions on loans between $250 thousand and $50 million. This is in contrast to prior archival research, which focuses primarily on very large loans to public firms or very small loans to private firms. We find that lenders in our sample distinguish among financial statements in terms of quality, including conservatism, primarily on the basis of accrual patterns and restatements. While this general result holds throughout our sample, financial statement quality is substantially more important for lenders making larger loans (over $10 million) as compared to very small loans (under $1 million). In addition, bank lenders are much more likely to respond to low‐quality reporting with collateral and guarantee requirements than with an increase in the interest rate charged. This finding is consistent for lenders making both larger and smaller loans. Finally, despite concerns in the academic literature, bank lenders in our sample actually hold a neutral‐to‐positive view of recent changes in accounting standards. In addition, most do not support current efforts to exempt private companies from some accounting standards.
The Consequences of Audit‐Related Earnings Revisions
Authors: Haislip Jacob Z. , Myers Linda A. , Scholz Susan , Seidel Timothy A. 
Published: August 2017

AbstractIn this study, we investigate the consequences that auditors and their clients face when earnings announced in an unaudited earnings release are subsequently revised, presumably as a result of year‐end audit procedures, so that earnings as reported in the 10‐K differ from earnings as previously announced. Specifically, we examine whether the likelihood of an auditor “losing the client” is greater following such revisions, and whether the likelihood of dismissal is influenced by revisions that more negatively impact earnings, that cause the client to miss important earnings benchmarks, by greater local auditor competition, or by auditor characteristics. We also examine audit pricing subsequent to audit‐related earnings revisions for evidence of pricing concessions to retain the client. Finally, we examine whether client executives experience a greater likelihood of turnover following an audit‐related earnings revision. Consistent with expectations, we find that auditor dismissals are more likely following audit‐related earnings revisions. We also find that dismissals are more likely when revisions cause clients to miss important benchmarks and when there is greater local auditor competition. Among nondismissing clients, we find that future audit fees are lower when the effect of the revision on earnings is more negative, consistent with auditors offering price concessions to retain clients when revisions are more displeasing. We also find a greater likelihood of future chief financial officer (CFO) turnover as the effect of the revision worsens. Our findings offer important insights into the consequences that auditors face when balancing their responsibility for high audit quality and client satisfaction, as well as into the consequences that CFOs face when releasing inflated but not fully audited earnings.