bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical and Mechanical Properties of Bambara Groundnut Starch Films Modified with Stearic Acid
Authors: Oyeyinka Samson A. , Singh Suren , Amonsou Eric O. 
Published: November 2016

AbstractThe physicochemical and mechanical properties of biofilm prepared from bambara starch modified with varying concentrations of stearic acid (0%, 2.5%, 3.5%, 5%, 7%, and 10%) were studied. By scanning electron microscopy, bambara starch films modified with stearic acid (≥3.5%) showed a progressively rough surface compared to those with 2.5% stearic acid and the control. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra revealed a peak shift of approximately 31 cm−1, suggesting the promotion of hydrogen bond formation between hydroxyl groups of starch and stearic acid. The addition of 2.5% stearic acid to bambara starch film reduced water vapor permeability by approximately 17%. Bambara starch films modified with higher concentration of stearic acid were more opaque and showed significantly high melting temperatures. However, mechanical properties of starch films were generally negatively affected by stearic acid. Bambara starch film may be modified with 2.5% stearic acid for improved water vapor permeability and thermal stability with minimal effect on tensile strength.
Gas Permeability and Permselectivity of Poly(L‐Lactic Acid)/SiOx Film and Its Application in Equilibrium‐Modified Atmosphere Packaging for Chilled Meat
Authors: Dong Tungalag , Song Shuxin , Liang Min , Wang Yu , Qi Xiaojing , Zhang Yuqin , Yun Xueyan , Jin Ye 
Published: November 2016

AbstractA layer of SiOx was deposited on the surface of poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) film to fabricate a PLLA/SiOx layered film, by plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process. PLLA/SiOx film showed Young's modulus and tensile strength increased by 119.2% and 91.6%, respectively, over those of neat PLLA film. At 5 °C, the oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) permeability of PLLA/SiOx film decreased by 78.7% and 71.7%, respectively, and the CO2/O2 permselectivity increased by 32.5%, compared to that of the neat PLLA film. When the PLLA/SiOx film was applied to the equilibrium‐modified atmosphere packaging of chilled meat, the gas composition in packaging reached a dynamic equilibrium with 6% to 11% CO2 and 8% to 13% O2. Combined with tea polyphenol pads, which effectively inhibited the microbial growth, the desirable color of meat was maintained and an extended shelf life of 52 d was achieved for the chilled meat.
Composition‐Based Prediction of Temperature‐Dependent Thermophysical Food Properties: Reevaluating Component Groups and Prediction Models
Authors: Phinney David Martin , Frelka John C. , Heldman Dennis Ray 
Published: November 2016

AbstractPrediction of temperature‐dependent thermophysical properties (thermal conductivity, density, specific heat, and thermal diffusivity) is an important component of process design for food manufacturing. Current models for prediction of thermophysical properties of foods are based on the composition, specifically, fat, carbohydrate, protein, fiber, water, and ash contents, all of which change with temperature. The objectives of this investigation were to reevaluate and improve the prediction expressions for thermophysical properties. Previously published data were analyzed over the temperature range from 10 to 150 °C. These data were analyzed to create a series of relationships between the thermophysical properties and temperature for each food component, as well as to identify the dependence of the thermophysical properties on more specific structural properties of the fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.Results from this investigation revealed that the relationships between the thermophysical properties of the major constituents of foods and temperature can be statistically described by linear expressions, in contrast to the current polynomial models. Links between variability in thermophysical properties and structural properties were observed. Relationships for several thermophysical properties based on more specific constituents have been identified. Distinctions between simple sugars (fructose, glucose, and lactose) and complex carbohydrates (starch, pectin, and cellulose) have been proposed. The relationships between the thermophysical properties and proteins revealed a potential correlation with the molecular weight of the protein. The significance of relating variability in constituent thermophysical properties with structural properties––such as molecular mass––could significantly improve composition‐based prediction models and, consequently, the effectiveness of process design.
Foam‐Mat Freeze‐Drying of Bifidobacterium longum RO175: Viability and Refrigerated Storage Stability
Authors: Izquierdo‐López Danilo , Goulet Jacques , Ratti Cristina 
Published: November 2016

AbstractFoaming as a pretreatment was used prior to freeze‐drying of Bifidobacterium longum RO175 to investigate the potential acceleration of the drying rate and increase in microorganism viability after the process. A study on storage of foamed and nonfoamed freeze‐dried products at 4 °C completed this study. B. longum RO175 in foamed medium could be freeze‐dried in 1/7 to 1/4 of the time required for nonfoamed suspensions. In addition, foamed suspensions presented higher viability immediately after freeze‐drying (13.6% compared to 12.81 % or 11.46%, depending on the cryoprotective media). Refrigerated storage led to a reduction in B. longum RO175 viability for all tested protective agents (foamed and nonfoamed). No correlation between glass transition temperature and stability of probiotic powders was observed during storage. In addition, lower viability after 56 d of storage was observed for foamed materials, probably due to foam porous structure and higher hygroscopicity, and oxygen presence and moisture pickup during storage.
Value of18F‐FDG PET/MRIfor the outcome ofCT‐guided facet block therapy in cervical facet syndrome: initial results
Authors: Sawicki Lino M , Schaarschmidt Benedikt M , Heusch Philipp , Buchbender Christian , Rosenbaum‐Krumme Sandra , Umutlu Lale , Eicker Sven O , Bockisch Andreas , Antoch Gerald , Floeth Frank W 
Published: November 2016

AbstractIntroductionThe aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (18F‐FDG PET/MRI) to detectPET‐positive cervical facet arthropathy and identify patients who benefit from facet block therapy.MethodsTen patients with cervical facet syndrome (mean age: 65 ± 12 years) underwent18F‐FDG PET/MRIof the neck. Focal18F‐FDGuptake inPET‐positive facet joints served as target for computed tomography (CT)‐guided facet blocks. InPET‐negative patients, the target joint for facet block therapy was selected by current clinical standards considering the level of maximum facet arthrosis and pain. Neck pain was measured on visual analogue scale (VAS) before and after therapy. Bone marrow signal intensity (SI) ratio on turbo inversion recovery magnitude (TIRM) images and maximum standard uptake values (SUVmax) was calculated for each facet joint. Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) was calculated between bone marrowSIratios onTIRMandSUVmax.Results18F‐FDG PET/MRIdetectedPET‐positive facet arthropathy in six patients. Patients withPET‐positive facet arthropathy had significantly less pain compared with the pretreatment pain 3 h (P= 0.002), 4 weeks (P= 0.002) and 3 months (P= 0.026) after facet block therapy. Pain did not change significantly in patients withPET‐negative facet arthropathy.TIRM SIratio was higher inPET‐positive facet arthropathy than inPET‐negative facet arthropathy (P< 0.001). Correlation was strong between bone marrowSIratio onTIRMimages andSUVmax (r= 0.7;P< 0.001).Conclusions18F‐FDG PET/MRIcan detectPET‐positive cervical facet arthropathy and help to identify patients benefitting from facet block therapy. Bone marrowTIRM SIratio might be a surrogate forPET‐positive facet arthropathy.
Mean platelet volume as a marker for differentiating disease flare from infection in Behçet's disease
Authors: Ryu Hee Jung , Seo Mi Ryoung , Choi Hyo Jin , Ko Kwang‐Pil , Park Pil Whan , Baek Han Joo 
Published: November 2016

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to investigate the association between mean platelet volume (MPV) and clinical manifestations, disease activity or infection in patients with Behçet's disease (BD).MethodsIn total, 193 patients diagnosed with BD according to the international criteria for BD were enrolled. Demographic data, clinical manifestations and laboratory results were collected by medical interviews and reviewing medical records.ResultsThe female : male ratio was 2 : 1 and the age of symptom onset was 32.2 ± 11.1 years. The age at diagnosis of BD was 44.7 ± 11.1 years and the follow‐up duration was 4.7 ± 3.8 years. MPV at diagnosis were significantly lower than of age and sex‐matched controls (8.2 ± 1.2 vs. 8.6 ± 1.2 fL, P < 0.0001). Lower MPV was not related to organ involvement except skin diseases. During follow‐up, MPV was lower in BD flare than in stable BD (8.2 ± 1.4 vs. 9.1 ± 1.4 fL, P < 0.0001) in the same patients. MPVs were significantly higher in cases of accompanying infections than in those with both BD flare and stable BD (9.3 ± 1.4 vs. 8.1 ± 1.3 fL, P = 0.018 and 9.7 ± 1.4 vs. 8.8 ± 1.0 fL, P = 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsMPV was significantly lower in patients with BD than controls. MPV declined in BD flare and increased in cases of infection in same patients. MPV may be useful as a marker of BD activity and its monitoring can be helpful for differentiating BD flare from infection in BD patients.
Epigenetic alterations of the BDNF gene in combat‐related post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Kim T. Y. , Kim S. J. , Chung H. G. , Choi J. H. , Kim S. H. , Kang J. I. 
Published: November 2016

ObjectiveBrain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a crucial role in modulating resilience and vulnerability to stress. The aim of this study was to investigate whether epigenetic regulation of the BDNF gene is a biomarker of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) development among veterans exposed to combat in the Vietnam War.MethodsUsing the Clinician‐Administered PTSD Scale, combat veterans were grouped into those with (n = 126) and without (n = 122) PTSD. DNA methylation levels at four CpG sites within the BDNF promoter I region were quantified in the peripheral blood using pyrosequencing. The effects of BDNF DNA methylation levels and clinical variables on the diagnosis of PTSD were tested using binary logistic regression analysis.ResultsSubjects with PTSD showed a higher DNA methylation of four CpG sites at the BDNF promoter compared with those without PTSD. High methylation levels at the BDNF promoter CpG site, high combat exposure, and alcohol problems were significantly associated with PTSD diagnosis.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated an association between higher DNA methylation of the BDNF promoter and PTSD diagnosis in combat‐exposed individuals. Our findings suggest that altered BDNF methylation may be a valuable biomarker of PTSD after trauma exposure.
Factors associated with short‐term transitions of non‐daily smokers: socio‐demographic characteristics and other tobacco product use
Authors: Wang Yingning , Sung Hai‐Yen , Yao Tingting , Lightwood James , Max Wendy 
Published: November 2016

AbstractAimsTo examine the transitions in smoking status among non‐daily smokers who transitioned to daily or former smokers or remained as non‐daily smokers during a 12‐month period. We analyzed factors associated with these transitions, including the use of cigars and smokeless tobacco (SLT).DesignSecondary data analyses using pooled data from the 2003, 2006/07 and 2010/11 Tobacco Use Supplements to the Current Population Survey (TUS‐CPS).SettingUnited States.ParticipantsSelf‐respondents aged 18+ who have smoked for more than 5 years and were non‐daily smokers 12 months before the interview (n = 13 673, or 14.5% of current smokers).MeasurementsMultinomial logistic regression model to determine the correlates of non‐daily to daily, stable non‐daily and non‐daily to former smoking transitions among non‐daily smokers at baseline. The model controlled for socio‐demographic factors and the use of cigars and SLT.FindingsOf the adults in our sample, 2.6% were non‐daily smokers at baseline. Among these, 69.7% remained non‐daily smokers (stable non‐daily smokers), 18.4% became daily smokers (non‐daily to daily smokers) and 11.9% quit smoking (non‐daily to former smokers) after 12 months. The non‐daily to daily versus stable non‐daily smoking transition was less likely among those who were aged 65+ (P = 0.018), male (P < 0.001), Hispanic (P < 0.001), with an income of $25 000–49 999 or ≥$75 000 and current users of SLT (P = 0.003), but more likely among those without a college degree compared with the appropriate reference group. The non‐daily to former versus stable non‐daily smoking transition was less likely among those aged 25+, male (P = 0.013), non‐Hispanic Asian (P = 0.032), without a college degree, widowed/divorced/separated (P = 0.013) or never married (P = 0.011) and current users of cigars (P = 0.003) compared with the appropriate reference group.ConclusionsWhile more than two‐thirds of non‐daily smokers in the United States remain as such after 12 months, others become daily smokers or quit. The likelihood of remaining stable non‐daily smokers and of transition from non‐daily to daily and non‐daily to former smokers is associated with socio‐demographic factors and current use of cigars and smokeless tobacco.
Receipt of addiction treatment as a consequence of a brief intervention for drug use in primary care: a randomized trial
Authors: Kim Theresa W. , Bernstein Judith , Cheng Debbie M. , Lloyd‐Travaglini Christine , Samet Jeffrey H. , Palfai Tibor P. , Saitz Richard 
Published: November 2016

AbstractBackground and AimsScreening, brief intervention and ‘referral to treatment’ programs have been promoted widely as US federal policy. Little is known about the efficacy of the RT component (referral to treatment) of brief intervention for motivating patients with unhealthy drug use identified by screening to use addiction treatment. This study aimed to compare receipt of addiction treatment following two types of brief intervention for drug use versus a no‐intervention control group among primary care patients screening positive for drug use.DesignSecondary analyses from a single‐site randomized controlled trial.SettingMassachusetts, USA.ParticipantsA total of 528 adults with Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) drug‐specific scores ≥ 4.InterventionsRandom assignment to: (1) a 10–15‐minute brief negotiated interview (BNI) conducted by health educators (n = 174), (2) a 30–45‐minute adaptation of motivational interviewing by Masters‐level counselors (MOTIV) (n = 177) or (3) no BI (n = 177). All received a list of treatment and mutual help resources; both intervention protocols included dedicated staff for treatment referrals.MeasurementsReceipt of any addiction treatment within 6 months after study entry, assessed in a state‐wide database and hospital electronic medical record linked to trial data.FindingsAmong 528 participants, the main drugs used were marijuana (63%), cocaine (19%) and opioids (17%); 46% met past‐year drug dependence criteria (short form Composite International Diagnostic Interview); and 10% of MOTIV, 18% of BNI and 17% of control participants had any addiction treatment receipt within 6 months after study entry. There was no significant difference in addiction treatment receipt for BNI versus control [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.57, 2.15, Hochberg adjusted P = 0.76]. The MOTIV group had lower odds of linking to treatment (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.17, 0.78, Hochberg adjusted P = 0.02) compared with the no BI group.ConclusionBrief intervention delivered in primary care for screen‐identified drug use did not increase addiction treatment receipt significantly; a motivational interviewing approach appeared to be counterproductive.
Association of single nucleotide polymorphism in melatonin receptor 1A gene with egg production traits in Yangzhou geese
Authors: Alsiddig M. A. , Yu S. G. , Pan Z. X. , Widaa H. , Badri T. M. , Chen J. , Liu H. L. 
Published: November 2016

SummaryIn the present study the melatonin receptor 1A gene (MTNR1A) was proposed to be a candidate gene for egg production in Yangzhou geese. A total of 210 goose blood samples were collected to investigate the association of the MTNR1A gene with the number of eggs produced. Using a direct sequencing method, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP; g.177G>C) was detected in the 5ʹ regulatory region of the MTNR1A gene (Genbank ss1985399687). Two alleles (G and C) and three genotypes were identified. Association analysis results showed that the g.177G>C SNP significantly affected the level of egg production within a 34‐week egg‐laying period (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the geese with the GG genotype produced significantly more eggs compared to the geese with the CC genotype. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis showed that the MTNR1A gene was highly expressed in small intestine, granulosa cell and ovary compared to other examined tissues. In addition, the mRNA expression level of MTNR1A in ovary indicated that significantly higher expression levels were recorded for geese with the GG genotype compared to those with the CC genotype. Moreover, a luciferase reporter assay showed that the CC genotype had significantly lower promoter activity than did GG. These results suggest that the identified SNP in the MTNR1A gene may influence the number of eggs produced and mRNA expression levels in Yangzhou geese and could be considered as a useful molecular marker in goose selection and improvement, especially for egg production.
Zika and pregnancy: A comprehensive review
Authors: Hajra Adrija , Bandyopadhyay Dhrubajyoti , Heise Lyndsey R. , Bhadra Rajarshi , Ball Somedeb , Hajra Shyamal Kumar 
Published: November 2016

AbstractZika virus (ZIKV) infection is a well‐nurtured topic for healthcare personnel nowadays. Central nervous system involvement including microcephaly and ocular involvements has already been reported in neonates of affected pregnant ladies. In this article, we have discussed these effects on the newborns of ZIKV‐infected mothers. The proposed pathogenesis, modes of transmission of this infection from mothers to the fetuses, diagnosis of the cases and precaution for the pregnant ladies have also been discussed. We have gathered the recently available data on the risk of ZIKV for expectant mothers from PubMed, https://www.gov.uk/guidance/zika-virus as well as from centers for disease control and prevention websites.
Glutathione in combination with trehalose has supplementary beneficial effects on cryopreserved red deer (cervus elaphus) sperm
Authors: Wang Yan , Dong Shude 
Published: November 2016

ObjectivesIn this study, we evaluated the effects of glutathione in combination with trehalose addition to semen extenders on the quality parameters of frozen‐thawed red deer (cervus elaphus) spermatozoa.Method of studyThe semen samples collected from six mature red deer once a week were diluted with Tris‐egg yolk‐based extenders. The diluted semen samples were supplemented with glutathione (8 mmol L−1) and or trehalose (5%, w/v), cryopreserved, thawed and then subjected to sperm quality parameter evaluation.ResultsBoth glutathione and trehalose addition to the extender significantly improved progressive motility, acrosome integrity, membrane integrity, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity and decreased percentage abnormality and sperm malondialdehyde level compared with the control group (P<.05). Moreover, glutathione in combination with trehalose addition to semen extenders had higher efficiency compared with the glutathione or trehalose addition alone (P<.05).ConclusionTherefore, glutathione in combination with trehalose could be a promising cryoprotectant for red deer sperm.
Review of the aetiology, diagnostics and outcomes of childhood encephalitis from 1970 to 2009
Authors: Wickström Ronny , Fowler Åsa , Bogdanovic Gordana , Bennet Rutger , Eriksson Margareta 
Published: November 2016

AbstractAimEncephalitis is a rare, serious condition, and antiviral therapies, increased knowledge of inflammatory pathways and improved diagnostics have increased the therapeutic possibilities. We describe 40 years of childhood encephalitis in Sweden, covering the diagnostics, aetiology and outcomes.MethodsWe reviewed the clinical data that were available for all children discharged from the Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm following treatment for encephalitis from 1970 to 2009. The hospital treated all children in the region with the condition during the study period.ResultsThere were 408 episodes of encephalitis from 1970 to 2009 and the incidence was similar over the whole period, ranging from 6.4 to 8.7 per 100 000 child years. Although mortality markedly decreased from 10% in the first decade to zero in the last decade, and aetiologies shifted, no clear long‐term improvements in outcome were seen. The need for intensive care was unchanged (18–20%) for each of the study intervals, possibly indicating that the severity of cases remained unaltered.ConclusionUnderstanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of encephalitis is vitally important for developing more efficient treatment regimens. As well as reporting the results of this 40‐year study, this study considers possible explanations, addresses current therapeutic options and explores directions for central nervous system infection research.
Rapid test for lung maturity, based on spectroscopy of gastric aspirate, predicted respiratory distress syndrome with high sensitivity
Authors: Verder Henrik , Heiring Christian , Clark Howard , Sweet David , Jessen Torben E. , Ebbesen Finn , Björklund Lars J. , Andreasson Bengt , Bender Lars , Bertelsen Aksel , Dahl Marianne , Eschen Christian , Fenger‐Grøn Jesper , Hoffmann Stine F. , Höskuldsson Agnar , Bruusgaard‐Mouritsen Maria , Lundberg Fredrik , Postle Anthony D. , Schousboe Peter , Schmidt Peter , Stanchev Hristo , Sørensen Lars 
Published: November 2016

AbstractAimRespiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in premature infants. By the time symptoms appear, it may already be too late to prevent a severe course, with bronchopulmonary dysplasia or mortality. We aimed to develop a rapid test of lung maturity for targeting surfactant supplementation.MethodsConcentrations of the most surface‐active lung phospholipid dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin in gastric aspirates from premature infants were measured by mass spectrometry and expressed as the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio (L/S). The same aspirates were analysed with mid‐infrared spectroscopy. Subsequently, L/S was measured in gastric aspirates and oropharyngeal secretions from another group of premature infants using spectroscopy and the results were compared with RDS development. The 10‐minute analysis required 10 μL of aspirate.ResultsAn L/S algorithm was developed based on 89 aspirates. Subsequently, gastric aspirates were sampled in 136 infants of 24–31 weeks of gestation and 61 (45%) developed RDS. The cut‐off value of L/S was 2.2, sensitivity was 92%, and specificity was 73%. In 59 cases, the oropharyngeal secretions had less valid L/S than gastric aspirate results.ConclusionOur rapid test for lung maturity, based on spectroscopy of gastric aspirate, predicted RDS with high sensitivity.