bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Protistan diversity in a permanently stratified meromictic lake (LakeAlatsee,SW Germany)
Authors: Oikonomou Andreas , Filker Sabine , Breiner Hans‐Werner , Stoeck Thorsten 
Published: October 2014

SummaryProtists play a crucial role for ecosystem function(ing) and oxygen is one of the strongest barriers against their local dispersal. However, protistan diversity in freshwater habitats with oxygen gradients received very little attention. We applied high‐throughput sequencing of theV9region (18S rRNAgene) to provide a hitherto unique spatiotemporal analysis of protistan diversity along the oxygen gradient of a freshwater meromictic lake (LakeAlatsee,SW Germany). In the mixolimnion, the communities experienced most seasonal structural changes, withStramenopiles dominating in autumn andDinoflagellata in summer. The suboxic interface supported the highest diversity, but only 23OTUs95%(mainlyEuglenozoa, after quality check and removal of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) with less than three sequences) were exclusively associated with this habitat. Eukaryotic communities in the anoxic monimolimnion showed the most stable seasonal pattern, withChrysophyta andBicosoecida being the dominant taxa. Our data pinpoint to the ecological role of the interface as a short‐term ‘meeting point’ for protists, contributing to the coupling of the mixolimnion and the monimolimnion. Our analyses of divergent genetic diversity suggest a high degree of previously undescribedOTUs. Future research will have to reveal if this result actually points to a high number of undescribed species in such freshwater habitats.
Sequential use of double‐balloon catheter and oral misoprostol versus oral misoprostol alone for induction of labour at term (CRBplus trial): a multicentre, open‐label randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kehl S , Ziegler J , Schleussner E , Tuschy B , Berlit S , Kirscht J , Hägele F , Weiss C , Siemer J , Sütterlin M 
Published: October 2014

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of inducing labour using a double‐balloon catheter and oral misoprostol sequentially, in comparison with oral misoprostol alone.DesignA multicentre randomised controlled trial.SettingFive hospitals in Germany.PopulationA total of 326 pregnant women with an unfavourable cervix undergoing labour induction at term.MethodsWomen were randomly assigned according to a computer‐generated allocation sequence to sequential use of double‐balloon catheter and oral misoprostol (study group) or oral misoprostol alone (control group). In the study group, the double‐balloon catheter was used the first day before starting oral misoprostol the second day.Main outcome measuresThe primary outcome measure was the induction‐to‐delivery interval, and a further outcome parameter was delivery within 48 hours.ResultsThe median times for induction of labour until delivery were 32.4 hours in the study group and 22.5 hours in the control group (P = 0.004). This difference was not seen when evaluating according to parity (nulliparous, P = 0.19; parous, P = 0.06). The rate of vaginal delivery within 48 hours did not differ between both groups. The number of applications of misoprostol (two versus three, P < 0.001) and the dose of misoprostol used was lower in the study group (100 versus 200 μg, P < 0.001). In the study group, there were more Apgar scores of <7 at 5 minutes (8 versus 1, P = 0.04).ConclusionsThe use of a double‐balloon catheter on the first day, before starting oral misoprostol on the second day, did not improve the induction to delivery interval and the rate of delivery within 48 hours, in comparison with oral misoprostol alone.
Methodologies for Increasing the Resistant Starch Content of Food Starches: A Review
Authors: Dupuis John H. , Liu Qiang , Yada Rickey Y. 
Published: October 2014

AbstractResearch involving resistant starch (RS) is becoming more prominent. RS has the ability to modulate postprandial blood‐glucose levels and can be fermented by the colonic microflora to produce short‐chain fatty acids, which exert positive health benefits on the consumer such as increased colonic blood flow to ease colonic inflammation and a decreased risk of colon and/or other cancers. This paper reviews the effects of genetic manipulation on amylose levels in plants, enzymatic hydrolysis, physical treatments, chemical modifications, exposure to γ‐rays, and the effects of lipid complexation on the RS content of starches from various botanical sources. All treatments reviewed increased the RS content; however, select treatments (namely genetic manipulation, enzymatic debranching, hydrothermal treatments, high hydrostatic pressure, most chemical modifications, γ‐irradiation exposure, as well as lipid complexation) were more effective to varying degrees than were extrusion and mineral acid treatments. Various methods commonly used for measuring RS were compared. Additionally, the effects of food matrix components were also examined to gauge their effectiveness at inhibiting or enhancing RS formation, with lipids and gums known to be the most effective at enhancing (or apparently enhancing) RS. This review draws largely, but not exclusively, from research published post 2009.
Enteropathogenic Yersinia in the Pork Production Chain: Challenges for Control
Authors: Laukkanen‐Ninios Riikka , Fredriksson‐Ahomaa Maria , Korkeala Hannu 
Published: October 2014

AbstractEnteropathogenic Yersinia comprising pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, are zoonotic pathogens causing foodborne intestinal illness in humans. Y. enterocolitica is common in pork production and pork is associated with infections in humans. Therefore, there is a need to reduce the occurrence and spread of these pathogens within the pork production chain. It would be most effective to control enteropathogenic Yersinia at the farm level. However, at present, feasible intervention methods are lacking and more research is needed. The most effective way to prevent the spread of Y. enterocolitica is to buy piglets from Y. enterocolitica‐negative farms. At slaughterhouses, the occurrence of enteropathogenic Yersinia can be reduced but not completely removed by slaughter hygiene and changing slaughter methods. After slaughter, it is difficult to control enteropathogenic Yersinia, since they can survive and even multiply during cold storage and under modified atmosphere. In addition, current knowledge and actions in both domestic and professional kitchens are insufficient for the prevention of yersiniosis. The significance of Y. pseudotuberculosis carried by pigs is uncertain. Although data are still lacking for pathogenic Y. enterocolitica in many aspects, there is even a greater lack of information regarding Y. pseudotuberculosis in pork production. There is a definite need for further research on these pathogens.
Functional Beverages: The Emerging Side of Functional Foods
Authors: Corbo Maria Rosaria , Bevilacqua Antonio , Petruzzi Leonardo , Casanova Francesco Pio , Sinigaglia Milena 
Published: October 2014

AbstractIn recent times, there has been growing recognition of the key role of foods and beverages in disease prevention and treatment. Thus, the production and consumption of functional foods has gained much importance as they provide a health benefit beyond the basic nutritional functions. At present, beverages are by far the most active functional food category because of convenience and possibility to meet consumer demands for container contents, size, shape, and appearance, as well as ease of distribution and storage for refrigerated and shelf‐stable products. Moreover, they are an excellent delivering means for nutrients and bioactive compounds including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, ω‐3 fatty acids, plant extracts, and fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics. However, in most cases, specific concerns have been raised over their safety. This review reports on the scientific advances in the emerging area of functional beverages with a focus on commercially available products, as well as on the potential health benefits related to their consumption.
Recent Advances in De‐Noising Methods and Their Applications in Hyperspectral Image Processing for the Food Industry
Authors: Dai Qiong , Sun Da‐Wen , Cheng Jun‐Hu , Pu Hongbin , Zeng Xin‐An , Xiong Zhenjie 
Published: October 2014

AbstractThere is great interest in developing hyperspectral imaging (HSI) techniques for rapid and nondestructive inspection of food quality, safety, and authenticity. In recent years, image quality has been constantly improved through advances in instrumentation, particularly in more powerful detectors. Nevertheless, pretreatment of data by de‐noising is a necessary step to insure clean HSI datasets for further analysis. This review first introduces the typical and commonly used de‐noising methods in HSI that correct for undesirable variations and remove noisy variables. Their advantages, disadvantages, and implementation are also discussed by giving examples of recent applications in the food industry. Finally, some advice is given for selecting the de‐noising methods that are best suited for a particular application. This review offers an overview of the most frequently applied methods and the latest progress made in HSI de‐noising in food applications. It provides systematic insight into future trends for generating high‐accuracy predictions regarding food safety and quality.
Clearing emergency departments and clogging wards: National Emergency Access Target and the law of unintended consequences
Authors: Perera Marlon L , Davies Alexander W , Gnaneswaran Neiraja , Giles Marian , Liew Danny , Ritchie Peter , Chan Steven TF 
Published: October 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo assess ED length of stay (EDLOS), access block, inpatient length of stay (IPLOS) and waiting times before and after the implementation of the National Emergency Access Target (NEAT).MethodsThis was designed as a retrospective cohort study and data was collected from electronic patient management systems. The control group represented all emergency presentations between June 2011 and September 2011, 1 year prior to the introduction of NEAT. The study groups were assessed and included all ED presentations between June and September 2012 and 2013 respectively. Main outcome measures were waiting times, EDLOS, proportion of patients cleared from the ED within NEAT goals, hospital length of stay and hospital mortality rates.ResultsA cumulative total of 76 935 patients were included in the study. During the course of the study, clearance from the ED within NEAT targets rose from 49.0% to 53.2% [relative risk (RR) 1.09; 95% CI, 1.07–1.11; P < 0.001]. ED waiting times decreased from 1.05 h [interquartile range (IQR), 0.43–2.27] to 0.45 h (IQR, 0.17–1.22) (P < 0.001) and time from bed‐request to ward access increased. Utilisation of emergency short stay units (SSU) increased significantly across the study period from 6.5% to 13.4% (P < 0.001). Rates of inpatient transfers increased eightfold (RR, 7.93; 95% CI, 5.98–10.51; P < 0.001) and IPLOS increased by 21% from 2.05 (IQR, 0.75–4.96) to 2.50 days (IQR, 1.12–4.99) (P < 0.001). Hospital mortality remained unchanged from 3.0% to 3.3% (RR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.91–1.34; P = 0.311).ConclusionsAt the current institution NEAT success has been guarded, likely secondary to availability of inpatient beds. The implementation of NEAT appears to have reduced emergency waiting times. These early results suggest concurrent a detrimental effect on IPLOS; however, some of this effect may be a result of a large increase in short stay admissions.
Management of retrieval service patients within a paediatric emergency department
Authors: Andrews Sarah L , Lewena Stuart , Oberender Felix , Babl Franz E , West Adam , Hopper Sandy M 
Published: October 2014

AbstractObjectiveThe Victorian Paediatric Emergency Transport Service (PETS) transports critically unwell children to tertiary paediatric hospitals. Children not directly admitted to ICU go to a tertiary ED. These patients might require prolonged and high‐level care. In light of the National Emergency Access Target, we describe this cohort, clinical care needs and process measures.MethodsA retrospective chart review of patients retrieved by PETS to the Royal Children's Hospital (Melbourne, Australia) ED in 2012. Demographics, illness parameters and process measures were extracted. The ED length of stay (LOS) and time to ward suitability (time at which physiological parameters stabilised and high acuity treatments ceased) were related to patient and illness characteristics. Data are presented descriptively and analysed using spss.ResultsIn 2012, 120 patients were transported to the ED. Conditions included lower respiratory (44), neurological (28), upper respiratory (16) and trauma (14). The median ED LOS was 4.8 h (interquartile range 2.9, 7.7). On arrival, 73 (60.8%) were ward‐suitable, but 51 (43%) had LOS less than 4 h. Twenty‐five (20.8%) patients stayed longer than 8 h. Administrative delay (principally bed block) is responsible for the bulk of the LOS; however, 25 (20.8%) had markedly abnormal vital signs after 4 h of ED care, mainly patients with lower respiratory tract disease.ConclusionMost patients retrieved to the ED ultimately go to a ward rather than ICU and most have an ED stay in excess of National Emergency Access Target. Several retrieval associated care issues, such as timely and appropriate ward disposition, can be addressed by administrative changes.
Log (TG)/HDL‐C ratio as a predictor of decreased islet beta cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes: 6‐year cohort study
Authors: Zhou Meicen , Li Zengyi , Min Rui , Dong Yaxiu , Sun Qi , Li Yuxiu 
Published: October 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of the present study was to explore whether the triglyceride to high density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio [log (TG)/HDL‐C] and peripheral blood leukocytes DNA telomere length could predict future islet beta cell function decreased in Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) during a 6‐year cohort.MethodsSixty T2DM patients (without insulin treatment at baseline) were included in the 6‐year cohort study. Peripheral blood leukocytes DNA telomere length, HbA1c, blood lipid profile, fatty fat acid, glucose, insulin and C peptide (3 h after a mixed meal) were determined. Delta C peptide area under curve (Delta CP AUC) was used to reflect change in beta cell secretion function (Delta CP AUC = baseline CP AUC – CP AUC after 6 years). Subjects were divided into slow decrease of beta cell function group (Delta CP AUCslow group) and fast decrease group (Delta CP AUCfast group) according to median of Delta CP AUC. Baseline demographic characteristics, clinical variables between two groups were compared. Correlations between baseline data and Delta CP AUC were analyzed.ResultsBaseline log (TG)/HDL‐C was positively correlated with Delta CP AUC (r = 0.306, P = 0.027); log (TG)/HDL‐C in Delta CP AUCfast group was higher than that in Delta CP AUCslow group (0.103 ± 0.033 vs 0.083 ± 0.030, P = 0.027). There was no significant difference in DNA telomere length between the two groups. Change in DNA telomere length over 6 years was not significantly correlated with baseline blood lipid.ConclusionsIn Chinese T2DM patients, high baseline log (TG)/HDL‐C ratio predicts fast progression of islet beta cell dysfunction. It may be a simple index to predict progression speed of islet beta cell dysfunction.
Metastases of basal‐like breast invasive ductal carcinoma to the endometrium: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Huo Zhijun , Gao Yongsheng , Zuo Wenshu , Zheng Gang , Kong Ronghua 
Published: October 2014

AbstractWe present a case of single endometrial metastasis from breast invasive ductal cancer. This case was unique because the immunohistochemical staining was negative for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2/neu and estrogen and progesterone receptors, and positive for cytokeratin 5/6 and epidermal growth factor receptor in the primary and metastatic tumor cells. No gross evidence of tumor was observed in other sites. We identified 12 cases of metastases to the endometrium from breast carcinoma from series and case reports in the literature between 1985 and 2014. This review indicated that hormone receptor‐positive invasive lobular breast cancer cells are more likely to metastasize to the endometrium than other cell types in patients over 50 years of age.
Efficacy and safety of pregabalin for treating painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a meta‐analysis
Authors: ZHANG S.‐S. , WU Z. , ZHANG L.‐C. , ZHANG Z. , CHEN R.‐P. , HUANG Y.‐H. , CHEN H. 
Published: October 2014

BackgroundPregabalin is considered to be an effective treatment for painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), but controversy exists about its efficacy and safety. We performed a meta‐analysis to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of pregabalin for managing pain associated with DPN.MethodsMedline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register were searched in July 2014 for randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials published in English on the use of pregabalin to treat DPN‐associated pain. Principal outcomes were mean pain score after pregabalin treatment and the proportions of patients showing a pain reduction of at least 50%.ResultsNine trials involving a total of 2056 participants were identified. Pooled analysis showed that pregabalin was significantly superior to placebo for improving mean pain scores [mean difference (MD) = −0.79, P < 0.001]. Pregabalin reduced pain below baseline by at least 50% in a significantly greater proportion of patients than placebo did [relative risk = 1.54, P < 0.001]. Patients were more likely to self‐report their status as ‘improved’ after taking pregabalin than placebo (relative risk = 1.38, P < 0.001). Pregabalin also improved sleep quality more than placebo (MD = −0.88, P < 0.001). On the other hand, patients receiving pregabalin were more likely to experience mild side effects than were patients receiving placebo.ConclusionsOur meta‐analysis indicates that pregabalin is more effective than placebo for managing DPN‐associated pain and other symptoms that reduce quality of life. The drug is also reasonably well tolerated.
Osteopontin is associated with inflammation and mortality in a mouse model of polymicrobial sepsis
Authors: FORTIS S. , KHADAROO R. G. , HAITSMA J. J. , ZHANG H. 
Published: October 2014

BackgroundOsteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional glycoprotein with pro‐inflammatory properties. In severe sepsis, levels of plasma OPN are significantly higher in non‐survivors than in survivors. We hypothesized that OPN results in greater inflammation and worse outcome through modulation of endogenous glucocorticoid production in sepsis.Methods and ResultsSepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in wild type (WT) and OPN gene knockout (OPN–/–) mice. In response to sepsis, the OPN–/– mice had lower levels of plasma cytokines and chemokines than the WT mice. The levels of corticosterone in plasma were similar between WT and OPN–/– sham animals but they increased 24 h after CLP induction in the WT mice, but not in the OPN–/– mice. The mortality rate was lower in the OPN–/– mice than in the WT mice.ConclusionOPN is associated with greater inflammatory response and increased mortality, despite the higher corticosterone levels in plasma. Corticosterone production is not impaired in the absence of OPN.
Oral health care in remote Kimberley Aboriginal communities: the characteristics and perceptions of dental volunteers
Authors: Patel J , Hearn L , Slack‐Smith LM 
Published: October 2014

AbstractBackgroundAboriginal Australians face significant disparities in oral health and this is particularly the case in remote communities where access to dental services can be difficult. Using volunteers to provide dental care in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia is a novel approach.MethodsThis study comprised an anonymous online survey of volunteers working with the Kimberley Dental Team (KDT). The survey had a response fraction of 66% and explored volunteer demographic characteristics, factors that motivated their involvement, perceptions of oral health among Aboriginal communities, and barriers and enablers to oral health in remote Aboriginal communities.ResultsVolunteers were more likely to be female, middle‐aged and engaged in full‐time employment. The two most common reasons reported for volunteering were to assist the community and visit the Kimberley region. Education and access to reliable, culturally appropriate care were perceived as enablers to good oral health for Aboriginal people in the Kimberley while limited access to services, poor nutrition and lack of government support were cited as barriers.ConclusionsVolunteers providing dental services to remote areas in Western Australia had a diverse demographic profile. However, they share similar motivating factors and views on the current barriers and enablers to good oral health in remote Aboriginal communities.
Slit2 Exerts Anti‐Inflammatory Actions in Human Placenta and is Decreased with Maternal Obesity
Authors: Lim Ratana , Lappas Martha 
Published: October 2014

ProblemObese pregnancies are characterised by increased inflammation. Members of the Slit/Roundabout (Robo) family are key regulators of the inflammatory response. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of (i) pre‐existing maternal obesity on Slit‐Robo expression in human placenta and (ii) Slit2 knockdown by siRNA in primary trophoblast cells on markers of inflammation.Method of studyThe expression of Slit‐Robo protiens was assessed in human placenta from lean (n = 15) and obese (n = 16) patients by qRT‐PCR and Western blotting. Primary trophoblast cells were used to determine the effect of pro‐inflammatory mediators on Slit2 expression, and the effect of Slit2 siRNA on pro‐inflammatory mediators.ResultsWhile there was no change in Slit3, Robo1 or Robo4 expression, Slit2 expression was significantly lower in obese placenta compared to lean placenta. Human primary trophoblast cells treated with pro‐inflammatory mediators IL‐1β, TNF‐α and LPS significantly decreased Slit2 expression. Slit2 silencing by siRNA augmented IL‐6 expression and secretion in cells stimulated with TNF‐α, LPS and TNF‐α; IL‐8 gene expression and/or release in cells stimulated with IL‐1β and LPS; TNF‐α gene expression and secretion in cells stimulated with LPS; and MMP‐9 gene expression and pro MMP‐9 levels in cells stimulated with TNF‐α.ConclusionThe anti‐inflammatory effects of Slit2 in human placenta is a novel finding, and suggests that inflammatory mediators, which are increased with obesity, downregulates Slit2 to enhance placental inflammation. Given the central role of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in placental nutrient transport, our findings suggest Slit2 may play a role in fetal growth and development.
Therapeutic hypothermia for hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy using low‐technology methods: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rossouw Gerhardus , Irlam James , Horn Alan R 
Published: October 2014

AbstractA systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed to determine the effect of therapeutic hypothermia using low‐technology methods, in settings with facilities for intensive care, in term or near‐term infants with hypoxic‐ischaemic encephalopathy on mortality, neurological morbidity at discharge and neurological morbidity at 6–24 months.ConclusionMeta‐analysis of three randomised controlled studies showed that low‐technology therapeutic hypothermia in an intensive care setting significantly reduced the mortality and the neurological morbidity in survivors at discharge.