bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multiplex PCR for rapid detection of thermophilic Moorella thermoaceticaand Geobacillus stearothermophilus from canned foods and beverages
Authors: Nakano Miyo 
Published: December 2017

SummaryA multiplex PCR assay was developed to simultaneously detect the thermophilic spore‐forming bacteria Geobacillus stearothermophilus and Moorella thermoacetica, which are major sources of spoilage in the canned food and beverage industries because of their thermophilic persistence. A total of 294 samples were examined, and none of the samples demonstrated signs of spoilage. Culture‐based assays showed that forty‐five M. thermoacetica isolates were obtained, which was confirmed by multiplex PCR, and G. stearothermophilus was not detected in any of the canned food and beverage, but multiplex PCR analysis identified this species in almost all of the samples. Meanwhile, twelve Bacillus subtilis isolates were found under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Multiplex PCR may allow selective detection of species that are present at low levels in complex matrices, or those that cannot be detected by culture‐based methods. Screening for spoilage‐causing micro‐organisms in ingredients and samples from processing lines, together with traditional culture methods, will help risk management and improve hygiene control.
Characterization and modeling of microstructural stresses in alumina
Authors: Teague Melissa C. , Rodgers Theron , Grutzik Scott , Meserole Stephen 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBrittle failure is often influenced by difficult to measure and variable microstructure‐scale stresses. Recent advances in photoluminescence spectroscopy (PLS), including improved confocal laser measurement and rapid spectroscopic data collection have established the potential to map stresses with microscale spatial resolution (< 2 μm). Advanced PLS was successfully used to investigate both residual and externally applied stresses in polycrystalline alumina at the microstructure scale. The measured average stresses matched those estimated from beam theory to within one standard deviation, validating the technique. Modeling the residual stresses within the microstructure produced qualitative agreement in comparison with the experimentally measured results. Microstructure scale modeling is primed to take advantage of advanced PLS to enable its refinement and validation, eventually enabling microstructure modeling to become a predictive tool for brittle materials.
Biofilm formation of Enterococcus faecium on stainless steel surfaces: Modeling and control by disinfection agents
Authors: Santos Rosado Castro Marcília , da Silva Fernandes Meg , Kabuki Dirce Yorika , Kuaye Arnaldo Yoshiteru 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe objective of this study was to evaluate the biofilm formation by Enterococcus faecium, isolated from coalho cheese, on stainless steel and its control by disinfection agents. The biofilms formation on stainless steel 304#4 was modeled as a function of time (0, 1.2, 4, 6.8, and 8 days) and temperature (4.5, 10.5, 25.0, 39.5, and 45.5 °C) using response surface methodology. Analysis of variance revealed a significant (p < .05) fit of the model, allowing to build a mathematical model capable of predicting adhesion as a function of time and temperature. Optimum time–temperature combinations for biofilm formation were found to involve contact times from 3 to 7.5 days and temperatures between 22 and 43 °C (counts > 5 log cfu/cm2). E. faecium was not eliminated by the sodium hypochlorite at 100 mg/L and peracetic acid at 300 mg/L demonstrating the difficulty of disinfection stainless steel surfaces after the onset of biofilm formation.Practical applicationsIn the present study it was defined, through mathematical modeling, the optimal combination of time and temperature of E. faecium biofilm formation isolated from coalho cheese. These results can be used to elucidate the biofilm formation process of this microorganism under conditions of time and temperature normally used in food industry. In addition, the understanding of this behavior helps to improve the procedures of cleaning and disinfection of equipment and utensils in food industry. The present study also showed that the main disinfectants used in the food industry were not efficient in the elimination of formed biofilms.
Potentially toxigenic fungi from selected grains and grain products
Authors: Tournas Vasiliki H. , Niazi Nicholas S. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractA total of 85 grain and grain product samples (including corn meal, corn muffin mix, popcorn, various types of rice, and self‐rising, all‐purpose unbleached and whole wheat flour) from U.S. retail were tested for fungal contamination levels and profiles using conventional plating as well as molecular methods. The results of this study showed that over 90% of wheat flour and corn product samples and 73% of rice samples tested carried live fungi. Popcorn carried the highest fungal levels reaching 5.45 log10 colony forming units (cfu) per gram followed by corn meal (reaching 5.38 log10 cfu/g). Mold and yeast counts in rice and wheat flour reached 3.30 log10 and 3.28 log10 cfu/g, respectively. The predominant molds in wheat flour were aspergilli and fusaria found in 50 and 46% of samples, respectively; Fusarium spp. were the most frequent contaminants of corn‐based products found in 74% of the samples followed by penicillia (present in 44% of tested samples). Rice, conversely, contained mainly Aspergillus, Fusarium, and yeasts (each found in 21% of the samples).Practical applicationsToxigenic molds are often contaminating stored grains and grain products and under improper storage conditions could cause spoilage of these commodities accompanied with production of toxic secondary metabolites, mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are known to cause illnesses in humans and animals. Therefore, monitoring the presence and inhibiting the growth of these organisms is critical for achieving and maintaining high quality products, suitable for human and animal consumption, and free of health hazards. Establishing toxigenic mold profiles in stored grains and their derivatives can point to correct storage management and thus reduction/elimination of spoilage and mycotoxin production in these products. In this study we tested several corn, rice, and wheat flour commodities for live potentially toxigenic fungal species. Our findings can help select proper storage management techniques for these commodities.
Preference ranking procedure proposal for dogs: A preliminary study
Authors: Li H. , Smith S. , Aldrich G. , Koppel K. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractIn the pet food industry, single‐bowl or two‐bowl methods traditionally are used to determine food acceptance or preference by pets. To increase efficiency of preference testing, and to provide more options for preference testing, a preference ranking procedure is proposed. The ranking procedure includes simultaneous presentation of five samples of edible treats. This increases the efficiency and reduces the time of preference testing. A preliminary test of the procedure with 12 beagle dogs was conducted. Each animal was presented with five treats, in an identical, coded rubber puzzle toy, or “Kong.” Five phases were included in the test, each lasted 5 days. Phase 1 included training with commercial treats. Phases 2–4 used lab‐baked treats with five different ingredients in each category (fats, starches, and proteins, respectively) of a base recipe. Phase 5 included testing with commercial foods. The order and time of treat selection by dogs was recorded. Results showed this small sample of animals generally ranked 1–2 flavors above others, indicating that this procedure could be a more efficient method to determine preference than traditional test methods since more samples can be evaluated simultaneously. More research is needed to verify the method.Practical applicationsThe pet food industry could benefit from this preference method in terms of gaining better insights into “liking” and maximizing outcomes with fewer resources than traditional methods require. Instead of evaluating one or two types of food in each test, this method can evaluate up to five different samples, increasing test efficiency. Further, the preference ranking procedure allows for insight into preference information based on direct multiple comparisons of single ingredient aromatics and flavor. These advantages make it imperative to further test the method with larger sets of animals with actual developmental products to determine its helpfulness for decision making in practice during the research and development of products.
Steep converse Bergmann's cline in a carrion beetle: between‐ and within‐population variation in body size along an elevational gradient
Authors: Baranovská E. , Knapp M. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBody size is an integrative trait with substantial fitness consequences in animals. Geographical clines in body size have fascinated biologists because of their potential to provide insight into the mechanisms governing local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity. In this complex study, we focused on variation in body size of Silpha carinata (Coleoptera: Silphidae) along elevation gradients in Central Europe. Altitudinal clines were investigated separately for males and females as sex‐specific responses to environmental conditions are documented for a variety of insect species. To identify potential underlying mechanisms responsible for observed patterns, a common garden experiment and investigation of within‐population variation in body size were performed. Body size of S. carinata recorded in nature sharply decreased with increasing altitude in both genders, whereas sexual size dimorphism did not change with altitude. The degree of within‐population variation in body size recorded in nature did not change with altitude. Under standardized laboratory conditions, higher altitude females produced smaller eggs than those from lower altitude. This size difference persisted to the very end of the larval period. Unfortunately, only few offspring survived till adulthood in the laboratory and thus precise analysis of offspring adult sizes was unfeasible, but between‐population differences in body size seems to persist to adulthood. The observed converse Bergmann's cline in S. carinata fits well with what has been predicted for large, carnivorous, univoltine insect species. Until now, investigation of within‐population variation in body size is rare in insects, and future complementary studies focused on this issue are highly needed as within‐population variation could explain body size patterns observed at between‐population level.
Charlotte Brontë: A radical Tory
Authors: Thormählen Marianne 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAlthough it is well known that Charlotte Brontë had pronounced political views and interests from childhood onwards, few academics have examined her preoccupation with politics, in the sense of public life and government affairs, at any length. Insofar as critics and scholars have considered her political opinions, they have found her Toryism hard to reconcile with the rebellious spirit in evidence throughout her mature fiction—a spirit that was felt by more than one contemporaneous reviewer to be akin to that of Radicalism. This article shows that there is no contradiction: Charlotte Brontë's political opinions were rooted in her ardent patriotism and love of freedom, both of which passions are compatible with Tory values. In her writings, veneration for the traditional British institutions, and for the Duke of Wellington as the preserver of Britain's ancient liberties, coexists with awareness of the right of women as well as men to carve out independent and meaningful lives for themselves. In the latter respect, she may be said to have adopted a radical stance.
On Whitham and Related Equations
Authors: Klein Christian , Linares Felipe , Pilod Didier , Saut Jean‐Claude 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe aim of this paper is to study, via theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, the dynamics of Whitham and related equations. In particular, we establish rigorous bounds between solutions of the Whitham and Korteweg–de Vries equations and provide some insights into the dynamics of the Whitham equation in different regimes, some of them being outside the range of validity of the Whitham equation as a water waves model.
Experiences of community-dwelling older adults with the use of telecare in home care services: a qualitative systematic review
Authors: Karlsen Cecilie , Ludvigsen Mette Spliid , Moe Carl Erik , Haraldstad Kristin , Thygesen Elin 
Published: December 2017

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background:
The aging population will lead to a rise in the number of people with age-related diseases, and increasing demand for home care services. Telecare is seen as a solution to this challenge by promoting aging in place. Nevertheless, there is still a poor understanding of older adults’ experiences with the actual use of telecare.

Objective:
The aim of this review was to identify and synthesize the best available qualitative evidence of community-dwelling older adults’ experience with the use of telecare in home care services.

Inclusion criteria:
This review considered studies that focused on qualitative data, examining older adults’ experiences with the use of active and passive technology devices, such as personal alarms and sensor technology, in the context of home care services.

Search strategy:
This review systematically searched the databases Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and SveMed+ to find both published and unpublished studies in English, Norwegian, Swedish and Danish, from 2005 to 2017.

Methodological quality:
Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed independently by two reviewers using the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument.

Data extraction:
Qualitative data were extracted from papers included in the review using the standardized Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument from the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Data synthesis:
Qualitative research findings were pooled using the Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument, and involved aggregation and synthesis of findings.

Results:
A total of 118 findings from 11 studies were aggregated into 20 categories. The categories generated seven synthesized findings: 1) Aging in place is desired; however, it may also be related to feeling isolated and lonely. 2) Telecare contributes to safety, security, and aging in place. 3) Privacy is not seen as a problem by most older adults because the technology is intended to help them live safely in their own home. 4) Some telecare devices have side effects, especially new technology. Some devices do not work outside the home, thus limiting active aging. 5) Some older adults experience a misfit between technology and needs. They must see the value of a telecare device to use it. 6) Telecare may enforce an identity with negative connotations on older adults, as frail and helpless people. Autonomy is considered important. 7) Lack of understanding can hamper the correct use of telecare. Specific strategies may be needed.

Conclusions:
The experiences with the use of telecare are diverse. Findings indicate telecare systems can promote safety and security to age in place that is a wish of many older adults. However, “one size does not fit all”- Telecare systems must fit individual needs, and be supported by service providers to accommodate sustainable use over time.
Community-based management of multiple drug resistant tuberculosis in a tertiary hospital in Tanzania: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Jelly Isaya , Peters Micah D.J. 
Published: December 2017

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has prioritized collaboration with communities in its 2016 “End TB” implementation strategy. Acknowledging the difficulties that some communities face in gaining access to health facilities due to barriers such as stigma, discrimination, healthcare expenditure, transport and income loss, partnering with communities in the roll-out of community–based TB management activities is vital.

Aim:
The aim of this project was to make a contribution to promoting evidence-based practice with regards to the community-based management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) at Kibong’oto National Infectious Disease Hospital, Tanzania, and thereby supporting improvements in patient outcomes and resource utilization.

Methods:
The project utilized the Joanna Briggs Institute Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System (JBI PACES) program to facilitate the collection of pre- and post-audit data. The Getting Research into Practice (GRiP) module was also used to analyze the potential barriers and for designing the final action plan. This project was conducted in three phases over a three-month period at the MDR-TB unit in a referral hospital in Northern Tanzania.

Results:
The project showed that there were significant improvements in compliance rates in staff education and documentation of patients’ suitability and preferences in receiving community-based care for MDR-TB. The compliance rate of criterion 2, which was already 100% at baseline, was slightly lower at follow-up.

Conclusions:
The project achieved significant improvements in the delivery of evidence-based practice with regards to community-based management of MDR-TB.
Can traditional risk factors explain the higher risk of cardiovascular disease in South Asians compared to Europeans in Norway and New Zealand? Two cohort studies
Authors: Rabanal Kjersti S , Meyer Haakon E , Tell Grethe S , Igland Jannicke , Pylypchuk Romana , Mehta Suneela , Kumar Bernadette , Jenum Anne Karen , Selmer Randi M , Jackson Rod 
Published: December 2017

ObjectivesThe objective was to prospectively examine potential differences in the risk of first cardiovascular disease (CVD) events between South Asians and Europeans living in Norway and New Zealand, and to investigate whether traditional risk factors could explain any differences.MethodsWe included participants (30–74 years) without prior CVD in a Norwegian (n=16 606) and a New Zealand (n=129 449) cohort. Ethnicity and cardiovascular risk factor information was linked with hospital registry data and cause of death registries to identify subsequent CVD events. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to investigate the relationship between risk factors and subsequent CVD for South Asians and Europeans, and to calculate age-adjusted HRs for CVD in South Asians versus Europeans in the two cohorts separately. We sequentially added the major CVD risk factors (blood pressure, lipids, diabetes and smoking) to study their explanatory role in observed ethnic CVD risk differences.ResultsSouth Asians had higher total cholesterol (TC)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio and more diabetes at baseline than Europeans, but lower blood pressure and smoking levels. South Asians had increased age-adjusted risk of CVD compared with Europeans (87%–92% higher in the Norwegian cohort and 42%–75% higher in the New Zealand cohort) and remained with significantly increased risk after adjusting for all major CVD risk factors. Adjusted HRs for South Asians versus Europeans in the Norwegian cohort were 1.57 (95% CI 1.19 to 2.07) in men and 1.76 (95% CI 1.09 to 2.82) in women. Corresponding figures for the New Zealand cohort were 1.64 (95% CI 1.43 to 1.88) in men and 1.39 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.73) in women.ConclusionDifferences in TC/HDL ratio and diabetes appear to explain some of the excess risk of CVD in South Asians compared with Europeans. Preventing dyslipidaemia and diabetes in South Asians may therefore help reduce their excess risk of CVD.
Likelihood of death among hospital inpatients in New Zealand: prevalent cohort study
Authors: Gott Merryn , Broad Joanna , Zhang Xian , Jarlbaek Lene , Clark David 
Published: December 2017

Objectives(1) To establish the likelihood of dying within 12 months for a cohort of hospital inpatients in New Zealand (NZ) on a fixed census date; (2) to identify associations between likelihood of death and key sociodemographic, diagnostic and service-related factors and (3) to compare results with, and extend findings of, a Scottish study undertaken for the same time period and census date. National databases of hospitalisations and death registrations were used, linked by unique health identifier.Participants6074 patients stayed overnight in NZ hospitals on the census date (10 April 2013), 40.8% of whom were aged ≥65 years; 54.4% were women; 69.1% of patients were NZ European; 15.3% were Maori; 7.6% were Pacific; 6.1% were Asian and 1.9% were ‘other’.SettingAll NZ hospitals.Results14.5% patients (n=878) had died within 12 months: 1.6% by 7 days; 4.5% by 30 days; 8.0% by 3 months and 10.9% by 6 months. In logistic regression models, the strongest predictors of death within 12 months were: age ≥80 years (OR=5.52(95% CI 4.31 to 7.07)); a history of cancer (OR=4.20(3.53 to 4.98)); being Māori (OR=1.62(1.25 to 2.10)) and being admitted to a medical specialty, compared with a surgical specialty (OR=3.16(2.66 to 3.76)).ConclusionWhile hospitals are an important site of end of life care in NZ, their role is less significant than in Scotland, where 30% of an inpatient cohort recruited using similar methods and undertaken on the same census date had died within 12 months. One reason for this finding may be the extended role of residential long-term care facilities in end of life care provision in NZ.
Acupuncture for patients with vascular dementia: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Ye Yang , Xiao Ling-Yong , Liu Yi-Hua , Yang Jing-Wen , Yan Chao-Qun , Wang Xue-Rui , Shi Guang-Xia , Liu Cun-Zhi 
Published: December 2017

IntroductionThis systematic review protocol aims to provide the methods used to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture therapy for treating vascular dementia.Methods and analysisThe following eight databases will be searched from inception to July 2017: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, VIP Database and Wanfang Database. All randomised controlled trials in English or Chinese related to acupuncture for vascular dementia will be included. Outcomes will include change in cognitive function and activities of daily living. The incidence of adverse events will be assessed for safety evaluation. Study inclusion, data extraction and quality assessment will be performed independently by two reviewers. Assessment of risk of bias and data synthesis will be performed using Review Manager software.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval is not required because individual patient data are not included. The findings of this systematic review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication or conference presentations.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42017071820.