bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Coagulase‐Negative Staphylococci Collected from Bovine Milk: Species and Antimicrobial Gene Diversity
Authors: Osman Kamelia M. , Abd El‐Razik Khaled A. , Marie Hanan S.H. , Arafa Amany 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe aim of this study was to examine the genetically mediated antimicrobial resistance in 94 coagulase‐negative staphylococcal (CNS) milk isolates (buffalo, n = 88, and cow, n = 6), and to determine whether antimicrobial resistance profiles differed between bacterial species. Our analysis of 94 CNS isolates from milk confirmed the well‐established multiresistant character of staphylococci in the dairy setting. Resistance against oxacillin, ciprofloxacin and cefoxitin was most frequently observed. Eleven CNS species isolated from buffalo's and cow's milk samples were 100% sensitive to gentamicin, erythromycin, clindamycin and ciprofloxacin. Resistance to oxacillin was attributed to the mecA gene in 44.7% of the oxacillin‐resistant isolates. The mecA gene was detected in Staphylococcus intermedius, epidermidis, hominis, hyicus, caprae, sciuri, lugdunensis and xylosus while totally absent in chromogenes, simulans and lentus. Of the 11 CNS species, S. epidermidis, S. lugdunensis, S. hominis, S. xylosus and S. intermedius were the only species that exhibited multiple resistance.Practical ApplicationsStudying coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS) at the species level can provide valuable information about species‐specific differences that can be vital data to prevent the dissemination of antimicrobial‐resistant genes and resistant pathogens to the community. CNS have long been regarded as pathogenic, but their important role as colonizers of the bovine udder has been recognized and studied in recent years. CNS have become increasingly resistant to multiple antibiotics. In recent years, increasing numbers of reports have shown that the mecA gene is present in CNS strains, including hospital‐acquired infections, community‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections, animal epidermis, beaches and public transportation systems. Therefore, it is highly important to detect the mecA gene as a marker to investigate antibiotic resistance in milk that may represent a serious health and economic concern.
Inhibitory Potential of Salvia sclarea and Ocimum basilicum against Chemical and Microbial Spoilage in Cheese
Authors: Azizkhani Maryam , Tooryan Fahimeh , Azizkhani Mohammad 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe inhibitory activities of salvia and basil essential oils (EOs) against chemical and microbial spoilage in Iranian white cheese were investigated. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration obtained for salvia against Listeria monocytogenes were 0.015 and 0.02%, and for basil were 0.05 and 0.06%, respectively. The activities of EOs against Aspergillus flavus were assayed yielding MIC and minimum fungicidal concentration for salvia of 0.5 and 0.65%, and for basil of 0.6 and 0.8%, respectively. At 1%, salvia inhibited fungal growth in the cheese throughout the storage period and reduced bacterial growth of up to 6 log/colony‐forming unit/g. By comparison, basil showed weaker antimicrobial effects, as well as lower peroxide and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance values at both 4 and 26C in cheese. As regard to oxidative stability, the activities at different concentrations of EOs were as follows: 1% basil, >0.75% basil, >0.5% basil, >1% salvia, >0.75% salvia and >0.5% salvia.Practical ApplicationsWhite cheese is normally considered to be a stable product with a reasonable shelf life. However, during storage for extended periods at ambient temperature, shelf life may be shortened considerably due to lipid oxidation or microbial spoilage. Chemical preservatives are used in white cheese to inhibit chemical deterioration and growth of microorganisms. Because of the risk of harmful effects of synthetic preservatives on consumer health, both the food industry and the authorities are paying increasing attention to medicinal and aromatic plants as sources of natural preservatives for use in food products.
Fluorescence‐Based Detection of Aflatoxin M1 in Milk using Immobilized Spores
Authors: Singh V.K. , Singh N.A. , Raghu H.V. , Kumar N. , Singh K.P. , Sharma P.K. , Raghav N. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractSpores of Bacillus megaterium were immobilized on a sensor disk by entrapment method followed by addition of pretreated milk and fluorogenic substrate, i.e., diacetate fluorescein with a response time of about 20 ± 5 min with ≥0.25 μg/L detection limit. Fluorescence was measured semiquantitatively using microbiological plate reader at specific excitation and emission spectra, i.e., 485 and 535 nm, respectively. High fluorescence within 20 ± 5 min is an indication of spore germination with the release of enzyme and its action on fluorogenic substrate. However, decrease in fluorescence indicates that milk is positive for AFM1 at 0.25 ppb. Reliability of fluorescence‐based assay has been checked by spiking AFM1 in milk, which shows that fluorescence is inversely proportional to AFM1 concentration. The developed assay was evaluated with real food matrix such as raw, pasteurized and dried milk (n = 59), and it was compared with radioimmunoassay (Charm assay) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay which showed correlation of 0.94 and 1.0, respectively. Fluorogenic assay based on spore germination principle on sensor disk has the potential for routine monitoring of AFM1 in dairy farm, reception dock and manufacturing unit of dairy industry.Practical ApplicationsFluorescence‐based detection of AFM1 in milk using immobilized spores on a sensor disk have a response time of 20 ± 5 min with a detection limit of ≥0.25 ppb. High fluorescence within 20 ± 5 min specifies germination of spores with the release of marker enzyme and its action on fluorogenic substrate, whereas decrease in fluorescence shows the presence of AFM1 in milk at 0.25 ppb. The assay was validated with radioimmunoassay (Charm assay) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in real food matrix such as raw, pasteurized and dried milk. The assay has the potential for routine monitoring of AFM1 in dairy farm, reception dock and manufacturing unit of dairy industry.
The Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Effects of Citrus aurantium L. Flowers (Bahar Narang) Extract in Traditional Yoghurt Stew during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Mohammad Bagher , Amininezhad Razieh , Shirzadinezhad Elham , Farahani Mina , Yousefabad Seyed Hossein Asadi 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of Citrus aurantium L. flowers (Bahar narang) extract (BE; 500, 1,000 and 2,000 ppm) were studied in traditional yoghurt stew during storage at 4C for 28 days. The contents of total phenolics and flavonoids in BE were 81 ± 1.8 and 46 ± 2.4 mg/g, respectively. In vitro antibacterial activity of BE showed that BE had a strong antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli O157:H7, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. Application of BE in traditional yoghurt stew decreased the growth rate of all tested pathogens and P. aeruginosa was the most resistant pathogen. The ferric reducing‐antioxidant power and free radical 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl indicated that BE had a good antioxidant activity. Peroxide value, anisidine value, conjugated diene value and protein carbonyls value indicated that BE decreased lipid and protein oxidation products in traditional yoghurt stew during storage. The antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of BE were concentration dependent and BE at 2,000 ppm was the most active. Sensory evaluation showed the addition of BE in traditional yoghurt stew was organoleptically acceptable and it can therefore be used as a natural additive in food industries.Practical ApplicationsConcerns over the safety of some chemical antioxidant and antimicrobial additives have led to increased interest in more natural alternatives in food products. Gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria show different sensitivities against plant extracts due to differences in their cell wall compositions. Phenolic compounds could reduce the growth rate of native and contaminant bacteria. Bahar narang extract, a plant having a high phenolic content and strong antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, could be used in food products as a cheap and natural alternative for the maintenance or extension of product's shelf life.
Age‐ and Functional Status–Dependent Association Between Blood Pressure and Cognition: The Milan Geriatrics 75+ Cohort Study
Authors: Ogliari Giulia , Sabayan Behnam , Mari Daniela , Rossi Paolo D. , Lucchi Tiziano A. , de Craen Anton J.M. , Westendorp Rudi G.J. 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo evaluate whether the relationship between blood pressure (BP) measures and cognitive function is different according to age and functional status in older outpatients.DesignCross‐sectional.SettingOutpatient hospital‐based Milan Geriatrics 75+ Cohort Study.ParticipantsIndividuals aged 75 and older (N = 1,540).MeasurementsBlood pressure, Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), basic activities of daily living (ADLs), and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were assessed. Associations between BP measures and MMSE score were first analyzed in the total population using linear regression models and were then further examined according to strata of age, ADLs, and IADLs. All analyses were adjusted for sociodemographic factors and presence of comorbidities.ResultsIn the total population, higher systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were all associated with higher MMSE score (all P < .05). Each 10‐mmHg higher SBP and DBP was associated with a 0.26‐ and 0.55‐point higher MMSE score, respectively. The associations between MMSE score and SBP, DBP, and MAP differed materially according to strata of age and functioning and were most pronounced in those aged 85 and older, with ADL impairments, and with IADL impairments.ConclusionHigher BP is associated with better cognitive function in the oldest old and in those with impaired functional status.
Estimating the Effect of Influenza Vaccination on Nursing Home Residents’ Morbidity and Mortality
Authors: Pop‐Vicas Aurora , Rahman Momotazur , Gozalo Pedro L. , Gravenstein Stefan , Mor Vincent 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo estimate the effect of influenza vaccination on hospitalization and mortality in nursing home (NH) residents.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingMedicare claims data linked to NH Minimum Data Set assessments and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) surveillance data from 122 U.S. cities.ParticipantsMore than 1 million Medicare fee‐for‐service, long‐stay NH residents between 2000 and 2009.MeasurementsWeekly facility outcome aggregates of NH resident pneumonia and influenza (P&I) hospitalizations and all‐cause mortality and city‐level P&I mortality as reported by the CDC were created. The seasonal vaccine match rate for influenza A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains was calculated, and each outcome was compared in seasons of high and low match rates using facility fixed‐effects regression models separately for full‐year and nonsummer months.ResultsAverage weekly all‐cause mortality varied across seasons from 3.74 to 4.13 per 1,000 NH residents per week, and hospitalization for P&I varied from 2.05 to 2.43. Vaccine match rates were invariably high for H1N1 but variable across seasons for the other two types. The association between vaccine match and reduction in overall mortality and P&I hospitalizations was strongest for A/H3N2, the influenza strain typically responsible for the most‐severe influenza cases. Given the approximately 130,000 deaths and 77,000 P&I hospitalizations of long‐stay NH residents during the 32 nonsummer weeks, the model estimated that a 50‐percentage‐point increase in the A/H3N2 match rate (from <25% to >75%) reduced long‐stay NH resident deaths by 2.0% and P&I hospitalizations by 4.2%.ConclusionWell‐matched influenza vaccine prevents P&I hospitalizations and mortality in NH residents.
The human brain and face: mechanisms of cranial, neurological and facial development revealed through malformations of holoprosencephaly, cyclopia and aberrations in chromosome 18
Authors: Gondré‐Lewis Marjorie C. , Gboluaje Temitayo , Reid Shaina N. , Lin Stephen , Wang Paul , Green William , Diogo Rui , Fidélia‐Lambert Marie N. , Herman Mary M. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe study of inborn genetic errors can lend insight into mechanisms of normal human development and congenital malformations. Here, we present the first detailed comparison of cranial and neuro pathology in two exceedingly rare human individuals with cyclopia and alobar holoprosencephaly (HPE) in the presence and absence of aberrant chromosome 18 (aCh18). The aCh18 fetus contained one normal Ch18 and one with a pseudo‐isodicentric duplication of chromosome 18q and partial deletion of 18p from 18p11.31 where the HPE gene, TGIF, resides, to the p terminus. In addition to synophthalmia, the aCh18 cyclopic malformations included a failure of induction of most of the telencephalon – closely approximating anencephaly, unchecked development of brain stem structures, near absence of the sphenoid bone and a malformed neurocranium and viscerocranium that constitute the median face. Although there was complete erasure of the olfactory and superior nasal structures, rudiments of nasal structures derived from the maxillary bone were evident, but with absent pharyngeal structures. The second non‐aCh18 cyclopic fetus was initially classified as a true Cyclops, as it appeared to have a proboscis and one median eye with a single iris, but further analysis revealed two eye globes as expected for synophthalmic cyclopia. Furthermore, the proboscis was associated with the medial ethmoid ridge, consistent with an incomplete induction of these nasal structures, even as the nasal septum and paranasal sinuses were apparently developed. An important conclusion of this study is that it is the brain that predicts the overall configuration of the face, due to its influence on the development of surrounding skeletal structures. The present data using a combination of macroscopic, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques provide an unparalleled analysis on the extent of the effects of median defects, and insight into normal development and patterning of the brain, face and their skeletal support.
Endocasts and brain evolution in Anthracotheriidae (Artiodactyla, Hippopotamoidea)
Authors: Thiery Ghislain , Ducrocq Stéphane 
Published: August 2015

AbstractAnthracotheres are a fossil family of ‘Suiformes’ from the Old World, North and Central America. They are known from the middle Eocene to the late Pliocene, and are suggested to be the stem group of Hippopotamidae. Yet, their soft anatomy remains poorly known. In this study we describe the virtual endocast of the late Oligocene anthracothere Microbunodon minimum, reconstructed using microtomography, as well as the natural endocast of Merycopotamus medioximus from the late Miocene. These are the first anthracothere endocasts ever described. Particular attention is given to the relative proportions of the brain, the neocortex, the cerebellum and the olfactory bulbs. The ‘backward shift’ of the pituitary of M. minimum, and the possible presence of a K lobe in M. medioximus, is discussed. Previous statements that some endocranial characters were subject to convergence among mammals are also corroborated.
General Erectile Functioning among Young, Heterosexual Men Who Do and Do Not Report Condom-Associated Erection Problems (CAEP)
Authors: Sanders Stephanie A. , Hill Brandon J. , Janssen Erick , Graham Cynthia A. , Crosby Richard A. , Milhausen Robin R. , Yarber William L. 
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Introduction
Condom-associated erection problems (CAEP) are an underestimated factor related to inconsistent or incomplete male condom use. The underlying mechanisms of CAEP are not understood, and whether men who report these difficulties are also likely to experience erectile problems in situations when condoms are not used has not been studied.

Aim
The aim of the study was to investigate, in a sample of condom-using young, heterosexual men (aged 18–24 years), whether men who report CAEP are more likely to (i) have erection problems when not using condoms and (ii) meet criteria for erectile dysfunction.

Methods
A total of 479 men recruited online completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and answered questions about erection problems experienced when using and not using condoms during the last 90 days. Demographic, sexual experience, and health status variables were investigated as correlates.

Main Outcome Measures
Self-reported frequency of erection loss during condom application or during penile–vaginal intercourse (PVI) in the past 90 days and IIEF-5 scores.

Results
Of the men, 38.4% were classified in the no CAEP group, 13.8% as having CAEP during condom application, 15.7% as having CAEP during PVI, and 32.2% as having CAEP during both condom application and PVI. Men reporting any form of CAEP were significantly more likely than men reporting no CAEP to also report erection difficulties during sexual activity when not using condoms. Men who reported CAEP during PVI only or during both application and PVI scored significantly lower on the IIEF-5 than men without CAEP.

Conclusion
The findings suggest that men who report CAEP are also more likely to experience more generalized erection difficulties. Clinicians should assess whether men using condoms experience CAEP and where appropriate, refer for psychosexual therapy or provide condom skills education.
Light pulses at night elicit wavelength‐dependent behavioral responses in zebrafish
Authors: del Pozo Cano A. , Sánchez Vázquez F. J. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractZebrafish detect and respond to light by means of visual and non‐visual photopigments that have maximal sensitivity at different wavelengths. This paper describes zebrafish behavior when a 1‐h light pulse of different wavelengths (violet, blue, green, orange and red) was applied at midnight, with light pulse and darkness being used as controls. For each light condition, seven fish were individually tracked 1 h before (P1), during (P2) and after (P3) the light pulse. All the light colors (except orange) led to an increase in the accumulated distance swum during P2 with respect to the baseline (P1) activity, but only the white, violet, blue and green pulses led to higher activity during P3. This activation was partially explained by changes in the maximum swimming speed and/or the freezing behavior time. Thus, the violet and green lights increased the maximum swimming speed during P2, whereas red light produced a decrease in the same in P3. The white and blue pulses elicited longer freezing behavior during P2 than the violet pulse, and only the white and blue lights provoked freezing behavior during P3. Similarly, all colors awakened fish during P2, but only the green, blue, violet and white light affected the sleep rebound during P3. Moreover, zebrafish swam downward only during the white and violet light pulses in P2. Summarizing, shorter wavelengths strongly affected zebrafish behavior, especially after exposure (except for the vertical location). The persistence and magnitude of the effects on zebrafish behavior elicited by different light colors could suggest that dissimilar internal signals of phototransduction are activated by different wavelengths.
Foraging behaviour and energy budgets of sea snakes: insights from implanted data loggers
Authors: Cook T. R. , Bonnet X. , Fauvel T. , Shine R. , Brischoux F. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractInformation on the foraging behaviour of sea snakes has the potential to clarify adaptive pathways involved in the evolutionary invasion of marine habitats by terrestrial vertebrates. However, logistical obstacles have precluded studies in this field. To obtain preliminary data of diving behaviour, we surgically implanted temperature‐depth loggers into two sympatric, amphibious, benthic foraging sea krait species fromNewCaledonia. Based on logger recovery from three snakes (1Laticauda laticaudataand 2 L. saintgironsi), we obtained data on a total of 1850 dives carried out over eight foraging trips and 39.6 days at sea. Almost 99% of dives were <30 m deep. Average dive depth was 10.7 ± 7.0 m, but snakes dived as deep as 82.6 m. Maximum dive duration was ≥123.7 min. At sea, snakes dived continuously, with over 90% of surface recovery periods lasting less than 3 min inL. saintgironsi(n = 1). Periods at the surface (between successive dives) were longer at night than by day, plausibly reflecting more intense hunting activity by the snake. Locomotor speed, as measured by the rate of vertical descent or ascent during diving, was low (0.15 m s−1). In combination with other data on these species, we estimate that metabolic expenditure was about 10 times greater while the snakes were at sea than on land; and their overall field metabolic rate (70–145 kJ kg−1 day−1) was an order of magnitude less than has been reported for diving endotherms. Despite low sample sizes, our study shows that implanted data loggers can provide novel insights into sea snake biology. Our data emphasize the behavioural and ecological consequences of ectothermy for secondary marine vertebrates. In particular, they illustrate how ectothermy allows species to thrive on rates of energy intake vastly lower than are required for their endothermic competitors.
Corticosteroids and occurrence of and mortality from infections in severe alcoholic hepatitis: a meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Hmoud Bashar S. , Patel Kershaw , Bataller Ramon , Singal Ashwani K. 
Published: August 2015

AbstractBackground & AimsPrednisolone is the first‐line therapy for severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH). Patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis often develop severe infections that negatively impact short‐term prognosis.MethodsWe performed this meta‐analysis to assess the effect of corticosteroids on the occurrence of and mortality from infections in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. Randomized controlled trials examining the use of corticosteroids in severe alcoholic hepatitis and reporting data on infection rates and mortality were included. Random effects model was used to pool the data comparing arms with and without steroids for the occurrence of infection, 28‐day mortality and cause specific mortality.ResultsOf 1062 patients (528 steroids treated) without infection at baseline from 12 studies, infection was reported in 213 (113 steroids treated) patients without differences comparing arms with and without steroids (OR: 0.98; CI: 0.49–1.94). However, frequency was higher for occurrence of fungal infections among steroid‐treated patients (eight of 528 vs. one of 534; P = 0.02). Steroids provided mortality benefit at 28 days (OR: 0.55; CI: 0.34–0.90) mainly for liver failure‐related death (OR: 0.46; CI: 0.24–0.87) without differences on mortality from infection (OR: 1.19; CI: 0.38–3.73) or gastrointestinal bleeding (OR: 0.90; CI: 0.43–1.87). Three of nine patients with fungal infections died, all in corticosteroid arm.ConclusionsCorticosteroids do not increase occurrence of or mortality from bacterial infections in patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis. Further studies are needed to develop strategies of reducing the risk of fungal infection with use of steroids for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis.