bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of a Rhealba® Oat Extract‐based emollient on chronic pruritus in elderly French outpatients
Authors: Theunis J. , Chaussade H. , Bourgeois O. , Mengeaud V. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackgroundChronic pruritus, defined as itch persisting more than 6 weeks, is a debilitating problem that affects one in four elderly adults. Emollients are recommended for the management of pruritus, but evidence of efficacy is scarce.ObjectiveAssess the efficacy of a Rhealba® Oat Extract‐based emollient in the management of chronic pruritus in elderly outpatients.MethodsThis was a randomized, mono‐centric, open‐label, cross‐over study in adults ≥60 years of age with xerosis associated with chronic pruritus. Subjects were randomized 1:1 to start with a 2‐week non‐treatment phase or a 2‐week treatment phase in which they applied the emollient once or twice daily. The primary outcome was subject‐assessed pruritus using an established visual analogue scale. Subjects also assessed pruritus using the 5‐D itch scale. Investigators assessed xerosis using the Overall Dry Skin Score and measured hydration index by Corneometer®, desquamation by D‐Squame and transepidermal water loss by Aquaflux®.ResultsThirty subjects were included. Pruritus intensity on the visual analogue scale improved significantly more during the treatment phase than during the non‐treatment phase (P < 0.0001). This was also observed immediately after the first product application (P < 0.0001). According to the 5‐D itch scale, pruritus decreased during the treatment phase but remained stable during the non‐treatment phase (P = 0.0042). At the end of the treatment phase, more than half of the subjects reported an improvement in pruritus, and 30% reported complete disappearance, whereas pruritus remained stable during the non‐treatment phase (P < 0.0001). Xerosis improved significantly more during the treatment phase than during the non‐treatment phase as measured by D‐Squame, clinical assessment and hydration index (P < 0.0001). Transepidermal water loss did not significantly change.ConclusionDaily use of a Rhealba Oat Extract‐based emollient can provide relief to elderly adults who suffer from xerosis associated with chronic pruritus.
Expanding the Symbiodinium (Dinophyceae, Suessiales) Toolkit Through Protoplast Technology
Authors: Levin Rachel A. , Suggett David J. , Nitschke Matthew R. , van Oppen Madeleine J.H. , Steinberg Peter D. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractDinoflagellates within the genus Symbiodinium are photosymbionts of many tropical reef invertebrates, including corals, making them central to the health of coral reefs. Symbiodinium have therefore gained significant research attention, though studies have been constrained by technical limitations. In particular, the generation of viable cells with their cell walls removed (termed protoplasts) has enabled a wide range of experimental techniques for bacteria, fungi, plants, and algae such as ultrastructure studies, virus infection studies, patch clamping, genetic transformation, and protoplast fusion. However, previous studies have struggled to remove the cell walls from armored dinoflagellates, potentially due to the internal placement of their cell walls. Here, we produce the first Symbiodinium protoplasts from three genetically and physiologically distinct strains via incubation with cellulase and osmotic agents. Digestion of the cell walls was verified by a lack of Calcofluor White fluorescence signal and by cell swelling in hypotonic culture medium. Fused protoplasts were also observed, motivating future investigation into intra‐ and inter‐specific somatic hybridization of Symbiodinium. Following digestion and transfer to regeneration medium, protoplasts remained photosynthetically active, regrew cell walls, regained motility, and entered exponential growth. Generation of Symbiodinium protoplasts opens exciting, new avenues for researching these crucial symbiotic dinoflagellates, including genetic modification.
Immobilization of gluten in spherical matrices of food‐grade hydrogels
Authors: Reus Marloes A. , Krintiras Georgios A. , Stefanidis Georgios. D. , ter Horst Joop H. , van der Heijden Antoine E. D. M. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThe aim of this paper is to produce spherical encapsulates of wheat gluten in a food‐grade biopolymer for preparing sheared meat analogs, to prevent instant fibrilization of the gluten during a pre‐mixing step. The hydrogel should release the gluten inside the Couette Cell, as a result of the higher temperature and shear in the process. Both sodium alginate and κ‐carrageenan were used as encapsulants. Spherical particles of hydrogel‐gluten mixtures were produced by means of a dripping method using an encapsulator. While the particle properties of κ‐carrageenan surpassed those of alginate in terms of controlled release of the core, the particle production using the encapsulator was more complicated. With κ‐carrageenan, a layer of oil on top of the cross‐linking bath fluid, as well as through the outer orifice of a concentric nozzle were required to obtain a good sphericity of the particles. For the alginate particles the use of oil was not necessary. Gluten loadings of 7% w/w were achieved with 1.5% w/w alginate and with 2% w/w κ‐carrageenan. The water content of the particles can be easily controlled by a subsequent partial drying step. A mixture of Soy Protein Isolate and particles was sheared in the Couette Cell. Controlled release of the gluten from the alginate particles was not achieved properly by temperature or shear. The controlled release of the gluten was achieved at the processing conditions only with κ‐carrageenan. Some fibrilization was observed in the sheared product, but the macrostructure was not yet well developed. However, an optimization of the shearing process for the use of the particles may lead to an improved structure for the meat analogs.Practical applicationsThis paper investigated the effect of encapsulation in hydrogels on the fibrilization behavior of wheat gluten upon contact with water. A cheap and easily scalable dripping technique was used to create spherical particles in which the gluten did not fibrilize, although the coating material consists of ≥95% of water. Upon reaching the process conditions in the shearing device, the gluten is released and able to form fibers. The results show that hydrogels can mechanically protect the core and act as a delivery structure. The protective and carrier functions of the hydrogel can alternatively be used for cores like food additives (e.g., vitamins) or even to pharmaceutical ingredients, not only for the production of meat analogs, but also in other food applications.
Concentration of apple juice using a vacuum microwave evaporator as a novel technique: Determination of quality characteristics
Authors: Bozkir Hamza , Baysal Taner 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThis study was evaluated the use of a novel concentration technique, a vacuum microwave evaporator (VME) in the production of clear apple juice concentrate and the investigation of its effects on the quality characteristics of the juice. The optimum processing conditions of the VME for apple juice concentrate were determined using response surface methodology. The apple juice concentrate was produced by VME, a rising film evaporator (RFE), and a rotary evaporator (RE) at the optimum process conditions. The results show that the evaporation rate of VME was three times higher than that of RE and was two times higher than that of RFE. VME produced minimum changes in the color of the apple juices (L*, a*, b*, ΔE, Hue°, and ΔC) compared to RE and RFE. VME was also found the best group that preserved the quality characteristics of apple juices (TTA, NEBI, and TPC) compared with conventional evaporation methods.Practical applicationsMicrowave heating provides volumetric heating of food. The concentration carried out quickly with the combined system, microwave and vacuum, which allows mass and energy transfer quickly at a short time. The physicochemical, and biochemical properties of the concentrated apple juices processed using VME were found to be better than those of the juices produced using the other conventional methods. The obtained data can be useful for optimization of fruit juice concentrate production in industrial concentration processes.
Addition of the Chubak extract and egg white on biophysical properties of grape juice during evaporation process
Authors: Oladzadabbasabadi Nazila , Karazhiyan Hojjat , Keyhani Vahid 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThe objective of this study was to achieve a grape juice by evaporation and aerating with Chubak root extract. The Chubak extract was added to grape juice as a new source of hydrocolloid. Egg white was also added as an aerating agent. Addition of the Chubak extract and egg white resulted in significant variations in some of the parameters in samples containing both additives, through the extended duration of the process; evaluations for pH, a* index, and flow index behavior showed a decrease, while those of Brix value, L* index, and consistency coefficient showed an increase. The results suggest that the addition of the extraction Chubak extract and application of the evaporation process, together with mixing for 60 min at 80 °C improved color, viscosity and other physiochemical properties of grape juice samples. These tests demonstrate that Chubak extract served as a natural emulsifier and an aerating agent with valuable pharmaceutical properties and a unique taste.Practical applicationsIt can be claimed that the use of mixture of grape juice and Chubak extract as an alternative to sugar in food formulations can prevent emergence of unfavorable qualitative changes in the final product caused by sugar removal and add to its nutritional value, making it a potentially great functional product. The Chubak plant extract and egg white were well able to aerate grape juice. Addition of 3% Chubak extract and egg white to grape juice and then application of evaporation and stirring at 80 °C at 270 rpm for 60 min resulted in brightening color of the grape juice color and incorporation of plenty of air that served to decrease density and increase porosity and viscosity.
Revisiting the World Bank's land law reform agenda in Africa: The promise and perils of customary practices
Authors: Collins Andrea , Mitchell Matthew I. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThis paper revisits the World Bank's land law reform agenda in Africa by focusing on two central issues: (1) land law reform as a tool for resolving land conflicts, and (2) the role of land law reform in addressing gender inequalities. While the Bank's recent land report provides insights for improving land governance in Africa, it fails to acknowledge the exploitative and contentious politics that often characterize customary land tenure systems, and the local power dynamics that undermine the ability of marginalized groups to secure land rights. Using insights from recent fieldwork, the paper analyses the links between land law reform and conflict in Ghana, and the gendered dynamics of reforming land governance in Tanzania. These “crucial cases” illustrate how land law reform can provoke conflicts over land and threaten the rights of vulnerable populations (e.g. migrants and women) when customary practices are uncritically endorsed as a means of improving land governance. As such, the paper concludes with a series of recommendations on how to navigate the promise and perils of customary practices in the governance of land.
Dietary and fluid restriction perceptions of patients undergoing haemodialysis: an exploratory study
Authors: Hong Leting Isabella , Wang Wenru , Chan Ee Yuee , Mohamed Fatimah , Chen Hui‐Chen 
Published: January 2017

Aims and objectivesTo explore the perspectives of patients undergoing haemodialysis in Singapore on an imposed dietary and fluid restriction regime.BackgroundAdherence to prescribed dietary and fluid restriction constructs the fundamental basis of self‐care with improved morbidity and mortality. However, most patients have struggled to adhere in this aspect. Existing studies have presented limited understanding on the facilitators and barriers of dietary and fluid adherence among haemodialysis patients.DesignAn exploratory qualitative study.MethodsA purposive sample of 14 patients undergoing haemodialysis was recruited from a renal unit of a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Data were collected through face‐to‐face individual interviews and subsequently analysed by thematic analysis.ResultsFour themes emerged: (1) Pessimism, (2) Existing struggles, (3) Perceived quality of support, and (4) Immensity of self‐discipline.ConclusionsThe imposed dietary and fluid restriction is a constant struggle and a cause of suffering among haemodialysis patients in Singapore. Nonetheless, they are generally submissive to their fluid restrictions for the sake of survival or to meet the expectations of their loved ones. The imposed dietary restrictions are generally neglected.Relevance to clinical practiceThe findings from this study can provide useful information in reviewing existing educational strategies, policies and nursing care. This is especially important because most patients exhibit high reliance on healthcare professionals.
The heart is a representation of life: an exploration of illness beliefs in couples living with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Dalteg Tomas , Sandberg Jonas , Malm Dan , Sandgren Anna , Benzein Eva 
Published: January 2017

Aims and objectivesTo explore illness beliefs in couples where one spouse has atrial fibrillation.BackgroundBeliefs are the lenses through which we view the world, guiding our behaviour and constructing our lives. Couples evolve an ecology of beliefs from their interaction whereby their actions and choices arise from their beliefs. Atrial fibrillation is a common cardiac arrhythmia that has implications for both patients and partners. A couple's illness beliefs play an important role in convalescence and illness management, and no previous studies have explored illness beliefs in couples living with atrial fibrillation.DesignA qualitative hermeneutic design.MethodsData collection constituted in‐depth interviews with nine couples (patient and partner together). Hermeneutic philosophy as described by Gadamer was used to interpret and to understand illness beliefs in couples living with atrial fibrillation.ResultsThe findings revealed both core illness beliefs and secondary illness beliefs. From the core illness belief ‘The heart is a representation of life’, two secondary illness beliefs were derived: atrial fibrillation is a threat to life and atrial fibrillation can and must be explained. From the core illness belief ‘Change is an integral part of life’, two secondary illness beliefs were derived: atrial fibrillation is a disruption in our lives and atrial fibrillation will not interfere with our lives. Finally, from the core illness belief ‘Adaptation is fundamental in life’, two secondary illness beliefs were derived: atrial fibrillation entails adjustment in daily life and atrial fibrillation entails confidence in and adherence to professional care.ConclusionCouples’ interaction has developed mutual illness beliefs regarding atrial fibrillation that guide them in their daily lives and influence their decisions. The adoption of a family‐centred perspective in cardiovascular care settings is warranted.
Capital Account Liberalization and Aggregate Productivity: The Role of Firm Capital Allocation
Authors: LARRAIN MAURICIO , STUMPNER SEBASTIAN 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACTWe study the effects of capital account liberalization on firm capital allocation and aggregate productivity in 10 Eastern European countries. Using a large firm‐level data set, we show that capital account liberalization decreases the dispersion in the return to capital across firms, particularly in sectors more dependent on external finance. We provide evidence that capital account liberalization improves capital allocation by allowing financially constrained firms to demand more capital and produce at a more efficient level. Finally, using a model of misallocation we document that capital account liberalization increases aggregate productivity through more efficient capital allocation by 10% to 16%.
The Convergence and Divergence of Job Discretion Between Occupations and Institutional Regimes in Europe from 1995 to 2010
Authors: Holman David , Rafferty Anthony 
Published: January 2017

ABSTRACTDrawing on technical change and institutional theories, this paper examines the convergence and divergence of job discretion between occupations and institutional regimes in Europe from 1995–2010. Latent growth modelling of a pseudo‐panel data set derived from the European Working Conditions Survey reveals that significantly different rates of change have led to an increasing polarization of job discretion between occupations and between Nordic and other European countries. Across occupations the findings are in keeping with routine‐biased technical change rather than skill‐biased technical change theories and suggest that the effects of technical change on job discretion depend largely on whether technology substitutes or complements job tasks. Across countries, the results are in line with employment regime theory, which suggests that institutional differences (particularly employment policies and trade union influence) are driving cross‐national variation in job discretion. Overall, a more comprehensive empirical and theoretical understanding is provided of factors shaping change in a key aspect of job quality, namely job discretion.
Increased circulating CXCR5+CD4+ T follicular helper‐like cells in oral lichen planus
Authors: Tan Ya‐Qin , Li Qing , Zhang Jing , Du Ge‐Fei , Lu Rui , Zhou Gang 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundCD4+ T‐helper cell is crucial for the inflammatory autoimmune condition of oral lichen planus (OLP). Recently, the pathogenetic functions of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, a subtype of CD4+ T‐helper cells, have been revealed in autoimmune diseases for their pivotal regulation on humoral immunity. To explore the potential pathophysiological role of Tfh cells in OLP, the expression of circulating Tfh‐like cells and its correlations with IL‐21 and B cells were investigated.MethodsThe frequencies of CXCR5+ CD4+ Tfh‐like cells and CD19+ B cells were analyzed in peripheral blood of patients with OLP and controls by flow cytometry, respectively. Besides, the serum IL‐21 concentration was measured using ELISA technology. Furthermore, the correlations of CXCR5+ CD4+ Tfh‐like cells with CD19+ B cells and serum IL‐21 expression levels were evaluated.ResultsThis study showed significant increased circulating Tfh‐like cells (P < 0.05) and B cells (P < 0.0001), as well as decreased serum IL‐21 expression (P < 0.001) in OLP. Besides, the frequency of Tfh‐like cells exhibited negative correlation with B cells in OLP (r = −0.435, P < 0.05). In particular, the proportion of CXCR5+ CD4+ Tfh‐like cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of erosive OLP was higher than non‐erosive OLP and controls (P = 0.012 and 0.021, respectively).ConclusionsIncreased circulating Tfh‐like cells may be involved in the pathogenesis of OLP through abnormal modulation on B‐cell proliferation and IL‐21 production, and associated with different clinical forms of OLP.
Dysregulation of AKT1, a miR‐138 target gene, is involved in the migration and invasion of tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ji Muyuan , Wang Wei , Yan Wangxiang , Chen Dan , Ding Xueqiang , Wang Anxun 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundAKT1, also known as PKBα, is abnormally expressed in various malignancies. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the role of AKT1 in the tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) and further clarify the mechanisms of AKT1 in the migration and invasion of TSCC.MethodsAt first, immunohistochemistry (IHC) was conducted to detect the expression of AKT1 in TSCC. Then, we determined the role of AKT1 in the migration and invasion of TSCC and further investigated whether AKT1 was the target gene of miR‐138 using dual luciferase reporter assays and Western blot.ResultsImmunohistochemistry results suggested that AKT1 dysregulation was a frequent event in TSCC, and upregulation of AKT1 was correlated with lymph node metastasis and associated with reduced overall survival. UM1 cells with higher migratory and invasive abilities had more robust AKT1 protein expression than UM2 cells with lower migratory and invasive abilities. The migration and invasion abilities were inhibited in UM1 cells upon AKT1 knockdown, meanwhile resulted in a decline of metastasis‐related proteins (vimentin, slug, and pERK1/2), and upregulation of E‐cadherin. Luciferase assays revealed that AKT1 was directly targeted by miR‐138, and ectopic transfection of miR‐138 reduced the expression of AKT1 protein.ConclusionsOur results confirm that upregulation of AKT1, a miR‐138 target gene, is a frequent event in TSCC and contributes to the aggressive behaviors and poor prognosis of TSCC.
Oral cancer screening for high‐risk individuals in the primary healthcare setting using an active approach
Authors: Pivovar Allana , Gonçalves Dos Santos Zilá Ferreira Dias , Torres‐Pereira Cassius Carvalho 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundOral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is considered a major public health problem. The diagnosis often occurs in advanced stages, causing high morbidity and mortality, and therefore, prevention strategies should be advocated. This study aimed to investigate a model of OSCC screening for high‐risk individuals in the Family Health Strategy's (FHS) scenario.MethodsParticipants were men between 50 and 65 years of age registered in a primary healthcare electronic database and resident in an area with low socioeconomic status in the city of Curitiba (Paraná/Brazil). With the support of an electronic map application, dentistry students visited subjects at their homes.ResultsFrom the 16 391 registered subjects, 981 were men aged between 50 and 65. From 608 available subjects, 233 (38.3%) were identified as smokers and former smokers and 202 (86.6%) were examined. There was a prevalence of 57 (28.2%) potentially malignant lesions and one confirmed case of squamous cell carcinoma. Actual smoking habits, low‐income wage, and absence from clinical appointments were the key predictors of leukoplakia in this study sample.ConclusionThis study offers evidence of the possibility of applying a high‐risk‐oriented approach as a secondary prevention measure in the FHS in Brazil or other developing countries.