bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fungal production of the polysaccharide pullulan from a plant hydrolysate
Authors: West Thomas P. 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
The ability of the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans ATCC 42023 to produce pullulan from hydrolysates of the native grass known as prairie cordgrass was investigated and examined relative to polysaccharide and cell biomass production, yield, and pullulan content of the polysaccharide. A pullulan concentration of 9.7 g l−1 and yield of 0.78 g g−1 was produced by ATCC 42023 when grown for 168 h at 30°C on a phosphate-buffered hydrolysate. The highest biomass level of 7.7 g l−1 was produced by ATCC 42023 after 168 h on a hydrolysate-containing complete medium. The pullulan content of the polysaccharide produced by ATCC 42023 after 168 h on the hydrolysate medium alone was 77%. Unlike what has been observed for other biomass substrates, a polysaccharide with a high pullulan content can be produced at a relatively high yield by a fungus grown on a grass hydrolysate indicating that pullulan could be produced using a biomass-based process.
Dementia, Comorbidity, and Physical Function in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
Authors: Falvey Jason R. , Gustavson Allison M. , Price Lisa , Papazian Lucine , Stevens-Lapsley Jennifer E. 
Published: April 2017

Background:
Participants in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) are a unique clinical population of medically complex and highly disabled older adults who qualify for nursing home level care but receive services in the community. A main goal of PACE programs is to prevent further declines in physical function that may necessitate costly institutionalization. This study evaluates how multimorbidity and dementia impact both self-selected gait speed and Timed Up and Go (TUG) in this population.

Methods:
This study was a cross-sectional design. Sociodemographic information, physical function, comorbidity data, and dementia status on 525 PACE participants were extracted from a quality improvement database. Separate univariable and multivariable linear regression models were used to evaluate the impact of comorbidity status and dementia on gait speed and TUG time.

Results:
PACE participants overall have a high degree of functional disability, with an average gait speed of 0.66 m/s, an average Short Physical Performance Battery score of 6.0/12, and an average TUG time of nearly 20 s. In the univariable analysis, a higher number of comorbidities and a diagnosis of dementia were associated with greater limitation for gait speed and TUG time. After adjusting for age, sex, strength, and balance, each additional comorbidity was independently associated with 0.015 m/s slower gait speed, as well as a 3.5% increase in TUG time for PACE participants with dementia.

Conclusions:
Ambulatory PACE participants have average levels of physical function that are dangerously close to thresholds thought to indicate vulnerability for further disability development, hospitalization, and nursing home admission. Both dementia and comorbidity burden are associated with declines in physical function, and the interaction between these risk factors is a telling indicator to functional decline in higher-level ambulatory tasks. PACE program clinicians can use this information to better identify participants at risk for limited physical function. Further research should investigate consequences of functional decline and determine optimal intervention strategies for PACE participants with functional impairments.
Accumbal Cholinergic Interneurons Differentially Influence Motivation Related to Satiety Signaling
Authors: Aitta-aho Teemu , Phillips Benjamin U. , Pappa Elpiniki , Hay Y. Audrey , Harnischfeger Fiona , Heath Christopher J. , Saksida Lisa M. , Bussey Tim J. , Apergis-Schoute John 
Published: April 2017

AbstractSatiety, rather than all or none, can instead be viewed as a cumulative decrease in the drive to eat that develops over the course of a meal. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is known to play a critical role in this type of value reappraisal, but the underlying circuits that influence such processes are unclear. Although NAc cholinergic interneurons (CINs) comprise only a small proportion of NAc neurons, their local impact on reward-based processes provides a candidate cell population for investigating the neural underpinnings of satiety. The present research therefore aimed to determine the role of NAc-CINs in motivation for food reinforcers in relation to satiety signaling. Through bidirectional control of CIN activity in mice, we show that when motivated by food restriction, increasing CIN activity led to a reduction in palatable food consumption while reducing CIN excitability enhanced food intake. These activity-dependent changes developed only late in the session and were unlikely to be driven by the innate reinforcer strength, suggesting that CIN modulation was instead impacting the cumulative change in motivation underlying satiety signaling. We propose that on a circuit level, an overall increase in inhibitory tone onto NAc output neurons played a role in the behavioral results, as activating NAc-CINs led to an inhibition of medium spiny neurons that was dependent on nicotinic receptor activation. Our results reveal an important role for NAc-CINs in controlling motivation for food intake and additionally provide a circuit-level framework for investigating the endogenous cholinergic circuits that signal satiety.
Temozolomide treatment can improve overall survival in aggressive pituitary tumors and pituitary carcinomas
Authors: Lasolle Hélène , Cortet Christine , Castinetti Fréderic , Cloix Lucie , Caron Philippe , Delemer Brigitte , Desailloud Rachel , Jublanc Christel , Lebrun-Frenay Christine , Sadoul Jean-Louis , Taillandier Luc , Batisse-Lignier Marie , Bonnet Fabrice , Bourcigaux Nathalie , Bresson Damien , Chabre Olivier , Chanson Philippe , Garcia Cyril , Haissaguerre Magalie , Reznik Yves , Borot Sophie , Villa Chiara , Vasiljevic Alexandre , Gaillard Stephan , Jouanneau Emmanuel , Assié Guillaume , Raverot Gérald 
Published: April 2017

Objectives
Only few retrospective studies have reported an efficacy rate of temozolomide (TMZ) in pituitary tumors (PT), all around 50%. However, the long-term survival of treated patients is rarely evaluated. We therefore aimed to describe the use of TMZ on PT in clinical practice and evaluate the long-term survival.

Design
Multicenter retrospective study by members of the French Society of Endocrinology.

Methods
Forty-three patients (14 women) treated with TMZ between 2006 and 2016 were included. Most tumors were corticotroph (n = 23) or lactotroph (n = 13), and 14 were carcinomas. Clinical/pathological characteristics of PT, as well as data from treatment evaluation and from the last follow-up were recorded. A partial response was considered as a decrease in the maximal tumor diameter by more than 30% and/or in the hormonal rate by more than 50% at the end of treatment.

Results
The median treatment duration was 6.5 cycles (range 2–24), using a standard regimen for most and combined radiotherapy for six. Twenty-two patients (51.2%) were considered as responders. Silent tumor at diagnosis was associated with a poor response. The median follow-up after the end of treatment was 16 months (0–72). Overall survival was significantly higher among responders (P = 0.002); however, ten patients relapsed 5 months (0–57) after the end of TMZ treatment, five in whom TMZ was reinitiated without success.

Discussion
Patients in our series showed a 51.2% response rate to TMZ, with an improved survival among responders despite frequent relapses. Our study highlights the high variability and lack of standardization of treatment protocols.
Clinical outcomes after delayed thyroid surgery in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma
Authors: Jeon Min Ji , Kim Won Gu , Kwon Hyemi , Kim Mijin , Park Suyeon , Oh Hye-Seon , Han Minkyu , Sung Tae-Yon , Chung Ki-Wook , Hong Suck Joon , Kim Tae Yong , Shong Young Kee , Kim Won Bae 
Published: April 2017

Objective
Active surveillance is an option for patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC). However, the long-term clinical outcomes after delayed surgery remain unclear. We compared the long-term clinical outcomes of PTMC patients according to the time interval between initial diagnosis and surgery.

Design and methods
In this individual risk factor-matched cohort study, PTMC patients were classified into three groups according to the delay period: ≤6 months, 6–12 months and >12 months. Patients were matched by age, sex, extent of surgery, initial tumor size as measured by ultrasonography (US), and by the presence of extrathyroidal extension, multifocal tumors and central cervical lymph node metastasis. We compared the dynamic risk stratification (DRS) and the development of structural persistent/recurrent disease of patients.

Results
A total of 2863 patients were assigned to three groups. Their mean age was 50 years, 81% were female and 66% underwent lobectomy. The mean tumor size at the initial US was 0.63 cm. There were no significant differences in clinicopathological characteristics between groups after individual risk factor matching. Comparison of the DRS revealed no significant difference according to the delay period (P = 0.07). During the median 4.8 years of follow-up, there were no significant differences in the development of structural recurrent/persistent disease (P = 0.34) and disease-free survival (P = 0.25) between groups.

Conclusions
In PTMC patients, delayed surgery was not associated with higher risk of structural recurrent/persistent disease compared to immediate surgery. These findings support the notion that surgical treatment can be safely delayed in patients with PTMC under close monitoring.
A Bacterial Cause of Cancer: An Historical Essay
Authors: Lichtman Marshall A. 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThis article reviews the history of the discovery of microbes that increase the risk of cancer of some tissues with a special emphasis on the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and the role played by two Australian physicians, neither schooled in research, who had open minds about the shibboleth that mycobacteria (acid-fast organisms) can survive the acid environment of the stomach, but that other pathogenic bacteria cannot. They discovered one of the most important human pathogens, Helicobacter pylori, and showed it capable of inducing severe gastric inflammatory disease. Subsequently, others built on their observations and showed it capable of inducing two gastric neoplasms: carcinoma and lymphoma.
LAS ESTRATEGIAS DE MARKETING ECOLÓGICO EN CADENAS MINORISTAS, EN UNA PERSPECTIVA INTERNACIONAL
Authors: Pulido Novoa James , Cantillo Guerrero Ernesto Fidel 
Published: April 2017

El objetivo del presente artículo de investigación consistió en identificar, desde una perspectiva internacional, las distintas estrategias de mercadeo ecológico, aplicadas por un grupo de cadenas comerciales minoristas. La técnica de investigación fue la revisión documental y se utilizó el método analítico. El trabajo se desarrolló en tres etapas: en la primera, se seleccionaron 50 fuentes de información; posteriormente, se construyó un mapeo con los términos claves pertinentes al objeto de estudio; por último, se redactó este artículo. Se estudiaron las estrategias de comunicación dirigidas a los consumidores y clientes, con relación a la oferta de productos y servicios amigables para el medio ambiente. Como resultado de investigación, se determinó que las cadenas minoristas internacionales con sede en Colombia realizan una labor de mercadeo ecológico mediante una estrategia clara de comunicación con los consumidores. Se concluyó que las cadenas comerciales minoristas asumen las tendencias del mercadeo afines a los intereses del Estado colombiano (Plan estratégico nacional de mercados verdes de la república de Colombia), y que dichas cadenas juegan un papel fundamental como intermediarios comerciales de productos y servicios amigables para el medio ambiente. ABSTRACTThe aim of this research article was to identify different green marketing strategies implemented by a group of retail chains, from an international perspective. A documentary review was the technique used, along with the analytical method. This article was developed in three stages; in the first stage 50 sources of information were selected; thereafter, a mapping was built with the key terms relevant to the subject matter; and finally, the draft article. The strategies focused on the communication to consumers and clients regarding the offer of products and/or amicable services to the environment, were studied. As a result of this research, it was determined that retail chains with headquarters in Colombia carry out green marketing work through a clear communication strategy with consumers. It was concluded that market trends that agree with the interests of the Colombian government (plan estratégico nacional de mercados verdes de la república de Colombia) converge with the commercial retail chains, which play an essential role as commercial intermediaries of products and/or amicable services to the environment.
HERRAMIENTAS COMPUTACIONALES COMO APOYO A LA GERENCIA EN LA ESTIMACIÓN DEL VALOR DE FINANCIACIÓN PARA UNA UTILIDAD NETA DE CAPITAL DESEADA.
Authors: Jiménez Sánchez Jorge Iván , Castaño Giraldo Nelson Eduardo 
Published: April 2017

El presente artículo de reflexión de una investigación, cuyo objetivo consistió en resaltar la importancia y utilidad que tienen las herramientas computacionales, como alternativa en el análisis y optimización de las utilidades netas de capital. Utilizando como técnica de investigación la revisión documental y el método de análisis, El proceso se desarrolló a partir de selección de casos, analizando los estados de resultados y aplicándolos al software GeoGebra, con el fin de calcular el endeudamiento requerido para incrementar las utilidades netas de capital, teniendo en cuenta la capacidad y costo de producción. Este trabajo propone a la pymes el uso de una herramienta Computacional que apoye a la gerencia a determinar la necesidad de endeudamiento y medir la capacidad de pago de las obligaciones financieras. Se concluye que en un mercado competitivo como el actual las pymes deberán prepararse para incorporar herramientas computacionales que les facilite tomar decisiones financieras oportunas y que les permita extenderse y permanecer en el mercado. ABSTRACTThe aim of this research article of reflection was to highlight the importance and utility of computational tools as an alternative in the analysis and optimization of net income assets. A documentary review and the analytical method were the research techniques used. The process was developed from case selection, analyzing income statements and applying them to software GeoGebra, in order to calculate the budget required to increase net income from assets taking into account the capacity and cost of production. This paper proposes to Small and Medium-sized enterprises (PYMES) to use a computational tool to calculate the budget required and measure the ability to pay financial obligations. It was concluded that in the current competitive market, Small and Medium-sized enterprises should be prepared to incorporate computational tools, which facilitate appropriate financial decision making, help them extend and remain on the market.
MODELO DE GESTIÓN ESTRATÉGICA DE RESPONSABILIDAD SOCIAL ORGANIZACIONAL
Authors: Díaz Arrieta Ana María , Bolívar Córdoba Miguel Ángel 
Published: April 2017

El objetivo del presente artículo de investigación consistió en diseñar un modelo de un sistema de gestión, que permitiera mejorar la calidad en una organización, desde la perspectiva de la responsabilidad social. El método utilizado fue el interpretativo analítico, bajo un enfoque mixto y con un corte propositivo. La muestra fue estratificada con 178 elementos (entre empresas y personas naturales). Las técnicas de investigación utilizadas fueron: la observación participante; encuestas y entrevistas a trabajadores, directivos y clientes. El resultado obtenido fue la creación de un modelo de sistema de gestión y de responsabilidad social, basado en la teoría de los stakeholders y fundamentado en la teoría del bien común. Aparte de su utilidad especifica, se concluye que el modelo diseñado se puede replicar en otras organizaciones con características similares, adecuándose a sus contextos. ABSTRACTThis research paper aimed to design the model of a management system, which allow improve in an organization, from the perspective of social responsibility. The analytical-interpretative method was applied, under a mixed approach of propositive nature. The sample was stratified with 178 elements (between companies and natural persons). The research techniques used were: participatory observation; surveys and interviews to employees, directors or customers. The result of this research project was the creation of a model of a management system and social responsibility, based on the theory of stakeholders, as well as the theory of the common good. It was concluded that the designed model can be repeated in other organizations with similar characteristics, being adapted to their contexts.
Is the laparoscopic approach superior to open approach for treatment of acute appendicitis? A hospital based experience
Authors: Pinate Anil Reddy , Shoeb Mohammad Fazelul Rahman , C. R. Shiva Kumar 
Published: April 2017

Background: Laparoscopic appendicetomy remains controversial in Indian perspective. The objective was to compare the clinical outcome of open with laparoscopic appendicectomy.Methods: Prospectively collected data from 150 consecutive patients with acute appendicitis was studied. Patients undergoing surgery for acute appendicitis were alternately assigned into one of the two groups (Group-A patients underwent open appendicectomy and in Group B laparoscopic appendicectomy). The two groups were compared with respect to operative time, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain & wound complications.Results: The mean operative time in the open group was 84.40 minutes; for laparoscopic group, 95.20 minutes (p-0.001). Duration of paralytic ileus, tolerance to oral feeds, resumption of daily routine activity and ambulation of patients were started earlier in laparoscopic group than open group. Group A (OA) patients had pain at the mean of 2.66 days as compared group B (LA), in which patients had pain at the mean of 1.66 days. Study also showed that the hospital stay for laparoscopic group was almost half of that for open group. Laparoscopic appendicectomy was safe as compared to open surgery in context to post-operative complications.Conclusions: Provided surgical experience and equipment are available, Laparoscopic appendicectomy is as safe and efficient than open appendicectomy.
Phytobezoar: a rare late complication following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery
Authors: Ben-Porat Tair , Elazary Ram , Goldenshluger Ariela , Dagan Shiri Sherf , Grinbaum Ronit , Beglaibter Nahum 
Published: April 2017

Case reports of bezoar after bariatric surgery are available to date only following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), but not following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Presented here is the first case reports of phytobezoars occurrence post LSG. Two case reports are presented. The mechanisms involved and the therapeutic implications are discussed. Case 1: A 41-year-old woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 45 kg/m2 underwent LSG surgery. Seven months postoperatively she developed significant vomiting and an upper GI gastrografin swallow study revealed a gastric bezoar, confirmed by an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). The bezoar was broken up and removed with the endoscope. Case 2: A 34-year-old woman with initial BMI of 42.7 kg/m2 was readmitted 5 years post LSG due to reflux accompanied with epigastric pain, vomiting, dysphagia and constipation. An upper GI gastrografin swallow study revealed esophageal dilatation. EGD showed a gastric phytobezoar 3x4cm size, removed by the endoscope. The lack of reports on bezoar occurrence after LSG may be related to the higher rates of stricture reported for LRYGB procedure comparing to LSG. In addition, LSG is a relatively new bariatric procedure, and the interval between surgery and detection of bezoars may be many years later. Thus, even being a rare late complication, bezoars should be suspected in LSG patients presenting with obstructive symptoms during the late post-surgery period. We recommend prompt endoscopic intervention to relieve the obstruction before parts of the bezoar migrate to the small bowel, necessitating operative intervention
Role of nutritional intervention in negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Case report of patient treated by 'open abdomen' method.
Authors: Kuczynska Barbara 
Published: April 2017

Introduction
Wound healing process depends on many factors. As it has been proved many times before, nutrition is one of the key factors in wound healing therapy. When there is an insufficient supply of nutrients and malnutrition, wound healing processes slow down and the inflammatory phase is prolonged, which requires high energy expenditure and as a consequence may lead to the loss of lean body mass and the development of sarcopenia and cachexia. This promotes the formation of non-healing chronic wounds.
In this paper, we would like to emphasize the role of nutrition, as an integral part of wound healing processes, which should encompass the current metabolic needs associated with patient’s clinical condition.
This case describes a young male patient with gastrointestinal tract insufficiency and an extensive postoperative wound treated by the open abdomen method. In the course of increased catabolism, water and electrolyte loss and disturbances as well as nutritional insufficiencies, body mass loss and progressive cachexia occurred in this patient and, as a consequence, the wound healing processes was significantly diminished.
Inducing and maintaining the anabolic processes in the organism and control of the enhanced catabolism in response to metabolic stress or injury are essential actions in optimizing the treatment and healing process. These are possible to achieve by the early introduction of balanced and individualized nutritional treatment regimens, provision of the energy and appropriate nutrients, which enables the restoration of lean body mass and stimulation of the healing processes.