bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the Spray‐Drying Process for Developing Jabuticaba Waste Powder Employing Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Borges Leonardo L. , Martins Frederico S. , Conceição Edemilson C. , Silveira Dâmaris 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe objective of this work was to obtain spray‐dried extract from seeds and peels jabuticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora) with optimized properties. To optimize the spray‐drying process, a 33 Box–Behnken design was used, in which the independent variables were the inlet drying air temperature (x1, 100–120C), feed flow rate (x2, 3–5 mL/min) and spray nozzle air flow rate (x3, 40–50 L/min). The dependent variables were ellagic acid content, total flavonoid content, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, water activity and moisture content. Only flavonoid content and moisture content were influenced by none of the independent variables in the ranges studied. Using the desirability function, the optimum conditions for obtaining spray‐dried extracts for the responses (with significant effects) were inlet drying air temperature of 120C, feed flow rate of 3 mL/min and spray nozzle air flow rate of 50 L/min. Under these conditions, the results from the verification were 0.0844 ± 0.0013% for ellagic acid content, 16.27 ± 0.63 % for total phenolic content, 0.176 ± 0.02 for water activity and 54.45 ± 0.92% for antioxidant activity, which were in good agreement with the predicted values.Practical ApplicationsThis paper gives a report on the reuse of the vegetal wastes obtained from jabuticaba fruits – Myrciaria cauliflora (peels and seeds), which can be considered a raw material with several chemical compounds with biological activities. So, this work aims to arrive at the possible industrial application in the spray‐drying process to obtain an intermediary product from jabuticaba wastes. Furthermore, surface response methodology (SRM) was employed to determine the influence of the most important spray dryer parameters on the physicochemical properties of M. cauliflora spray‐dried extracts. Based on the results obtained from SRM and in biological activities known for this species, the spray‐dried extracts exhibited a great potential for use in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical fields.
Application of GAB Model for Water Desorption Isotherms and Thermodynamic Analysis of Sugar Beet Seeds
Authors: de Oliveira Gabriel Henrique Horta , Corrêa Paulo Cesar , de Oliveira Ana Paula Lelis Rodrigues , Reis Renata Cunha dos , Devilla Ivano Alessandro 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe desorption isotherms and thermodynamic properties of sugar beet seeds of cv. “Chata do Egito” variety was determined at 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50C over a range of water activities (Aw) from 0.11 to 0.96. Equilibrium moisture content data were correlated by the Guggenheim–Anderson–de Boer model, which presented good fit to the data, according to statistical procedures. Equilibrium moisture content ranged from 1.50 to 20.0% d.b. (dry basis). Desorption isotherms of sugar beet seeds exhibited type II sigmoid shape. Thermodynamic properties were determined related to desorption process. Differential enthalpy values varied between 3,614.51 and 4,093.90 kJ/kg. Differential entropy and Gibbs free energy presented values between 3.67–4.08 kJ/kg.K and 0.75–508.11 kJ/kg, respectively. The enthalpy–entropy compensation theory is valid for the moisture desorption phenomena of sugar beet seeds, being enthalpy controlled.Practical ApplicationsAlmost 100% of the Brazilian sugar beet seeds are imported throughout the world and its commerce between different countries. Higher distances lead to physical, chemical and microbiological changes in sugar beet seeds. This trend could cause the deterioration of food products. Information on the sorption characteristics of sugar beet seeds could not be found in the literature, regardless of this culture importance. Sorption isotherms data are key information to predict optimum storage and trading conditions to ensure quality of sugar beet seeds for crop production. Finally, the lack of quality may affect employees, entrepreneurs and other professionals who work with sugar beet. This paper presents the desorption isotherms and thermodynamic properties of “Chata do Egito” sugar beet seed variety.
Methylation of tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 as a prognostic biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy
Authors: Sun Feng‐Kai , Sun Qi , Fan Yu‐Chen , Gao Shuai , Zhao Jing , Li Feng , Jia Yi‐Bin , Liu Chuan , Wang Li‐Yuan , Li Xin‐You , Ji Xiang‐Fen , Wang Kai 
Published: August 2015

AbstractBackground and AimMethylation of tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2) gene has been detected in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the clinicopathologcial significance and prognostic value of TFPI2 methylation in HCC remains largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of TFPI2 methylation in HCC after hepatectomy.MethodsMethylation status of TFPI2 gene was examined in 178 surgical specimens of HCC and 20 normal liver samples using methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction.ResultsMethylation of TFPI2 gene was detected in 44.9% (80 of 178) of primary HCC samples, 10.7% (19 of 178) of the corresponding non‐tumorous liver samples, and 5.0% (1/20) of the normal liver samples. The mRNA concentrations of TFPI2 in primary HCC tissues were significantly lower than those in corresponding non‐tumorous liver tissues and those in normal liver tissues. TFPI2 methylation was significantly associated with higher TNM stage. Patients with TFPI2 methylation demonstrated a significantly poorer prognosis than those without TFPI2 methylation for both overall survival and disease‐free survival (P < 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analyses confirmed that TFPI2 methylation was an independent prognostic factor for both overall survival (P = 0.002) and disease‐free survival (P = 0.000) in HCC after hepatectomy. Moreover, TFPI2 methylation was found to be the only independent predictor for early tumor recurrence of HCC after resection based on multivariate analysis (P = 0.002).ConclusionsMethylation of TFPI2 predicts high risk of advanced tumor stage, early tumor recurrence, and poor prognosis, and it could be a potential prognostic biomarker in patients with HCC after hepatectomy.
Hepatitis B surface antigen quantification as a predictor of seroclearance during treatment in HIV‐hepatitis B virus coinfected patients from Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Boyd Anders , Maylin Sarah , Moh Raoul , Mahjoub Nadia , Gabillard Delphine , Eholié Serge Paul , Danel Christine , Anglaret Xavier , Zoulim Fabien , Girard Pierre‐Marie , Delaugerre Constance 
Published: August 2015

AbstractBackground and AimIn Sub‐Saharan Africa, seroclearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B “e” antigen (HBeAg), including their quantifiable markers, have rarely been evaluated during long‐term antiviral treatment among patients coinfected with HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV).MethodsIn this prospective cohort study from two randomized‐control trials in Côte d'Ivoire, 161 antiretroviral‐naïve HIV‐HBV coinfected patients starting lamivudine (n = 76) or tenofovir/emtricitabine (n = 85) containing antiretroviral therapy were included. HBV DNA was quantified using an in‐house assay (detection limit = 12 copies/mL) and HBsAg quantification (qHBsAg) using the Elecsys assay.ResultsOverall, 33 (20.5%) patients were HBeAg positive, 121 (75.2%) had detectable HBV DNA, and 92/93 (98.9%) harbored HBV genotype E. Median treatment duration was 35.5 months (interquartile range: 24.3–36.4). Among HBeAg‐positive patients, cumulative proportion with HBeAg seroclearance was 46.3% (n = 14). Overall, cumulative proportion of HBsAg seroclearance was 6.6% (n = 10). Lower baseline qHBsAg levels and strong 12‐month declines in qHBsAg were significantly associated with HBsAg seroclearance for both HBeAg‐negative and HBeAg‐positive patients. When taken at certain levels, these determinants provided moderate sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) in predicting HBsAg seroclearance at month 36 (≤ 1000 IU/mL at baseline, Se = 0.80, Sp = 0.80; ≥ 1.0 log10 IU/mL drop at month 12, Se = 0.57, Sp = 1.00). Instead, qHBsAg levels ≤ 100 or ≤ 10 IU/mL at month 12 were optimal (both Se = 0.90 and Sp = 1.00). Detectable HBV‐DNA provided fairly high Se and Sp when evaluated at baseline (Se = 1.00, Sp = 0.80), but not at month 12 (Se = 0.80, Sp = 0.40).ConclusionsHBsAg seroclearance rates are not common in patients from Sub‐Saharan Africa treated with anti‐HBV containing antiretroviral therapy. qHBsAg levels at 12 months of treatment may accurately predict HBsAg seroclearance.
Comparison of Pituitary Adenomas in Elderly and Younger Adults: Clinical Characteristics, Surgical Outcomes, and Prognosis
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Li Chaoxi , Xiao Qungen , Gan Chao , Chen Xi , Sun Wei , Li Xiaopeng , Xu Yu , Chen Juan , Shu Kai , Lei Ting 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo analyze and summarize the clinical characteristics, surgical outcomes, and prognosis of elderly adults with pituitary adenomas (PAs).DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingTongji Hospital.ParticipantsIndividuals who underwent transsphenoidal surgery for PAs between 2009 and 2012 (N = 1,104).MeasurementsParticipants were divided into two age groups (≥65 and <65), and their clinical characteristics, surgical complications, surgical outcomes, and follow‐up data were analyzed and compared.ResultsThe older group had longer duration of symptoms. The most common symptom were mass effects (98.4%) in the older group and hormone‐secreting effects (55.2%) in the younger group. The incidence of pituitary apoplexy (P = .03), incidentaloma (P = .03) and misdiagnosis at first visit (P < .001) were higher in the older group. Nonfunctioning PAs (P < .001) and giant adenomas (P = .04) were more common in the elderly group than in the younger group. There were no significant differences in the incidence of postoperative diabetes insipidus, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, regrowth, visual outcome, or permanent hypopituitarism between the groups (P > .05). The incidence of severe systemic complications was greater in the older group (3/69 vs 3/1,035, relative risk = 15.00, 95% confidence interval = 3.08–72.94, P = .004), and all three cases in the older group occurred after emergency surgery. The incidence of hypopituitarism before surgery and 3 days after surgery was higher in the elderly group (P < .05). Older participants tended to have more difficulty recovering from preoperative hypopituitarism (P = .02).ConclusionAvoiding misdiagnosis and emergency surgery is critical for frail elderly adults with multiple comorbidities. With early active management, sufficient preoperative preparation, and multidisciplinary collaboration, the long‐term outcomes and prognosis of elderly adults with PAs are comparable with those of younger adults.
Associations Between Mild Cognitive Impairment and Hospitalization and Readmission
Authors: Callahan Kathryn E. , Lovato James F. , Miller Michael E. , Easterling Doug , Snitz Beth , Williamson Jeff D. 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo determine whether older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition not previously explored as a risk factor, have more hospitalizations and 30‐day readmissions than those with normal cognition.DesignPost hoc analysis of prospectively gathered data on incident hospitalization and readmission from the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory Study (GEMS), a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial designed to assess the effect of Ginkgo biloba on incidence of dementia.SettingGEMS was conducted in five academic medical centers in the United States.ParticipantsCommunity‐dwelling adults aged 75 and older with normal cognition (n = 2,314) or MCI (n = 428) at baseline cognitive testing (N = 2,742).MeasurementsIndex hospitalization and 30‐day hospital readmission, adjusted for age, sex, race, education, clinic site, trial assignment status, comorbidities, number of prescription medications, and living with an identified proxy.ResultsMCI was associated with a 17% greater risk of index hospitalization than normal cognition (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.34)). In participants who lived with a proxy, MCI was associated with a 39% greater risk of index hospitalization (aHR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.17–1.66). Baseline MCI was not associated with greater odds of 30‐day hospital readmission (adjusted odds ratio = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.60–1.36).ConclusionMCI may represent a target condition for healthcare providers to coordinate support services in an effort to reduce hospitalization and subsequent disability.
One‐Year Change in the Japanese Version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Performance and Related Predictors in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Kawai Hisashi , Hirano Hirohiko , Yoshida Hideyo , Ihara Kazushige , Kim Hunkyung , Chaves Paulo H. M. , Minami Ushio , Yasunaga Masashi , Obuchi Shuichi , Fujiwara Yoshinori 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo examine the distribution and associated predictors of 1‐year changes in the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA‐J) in community‐dwelling older adults.DesignProspective cohort study.SettingPopulation‐based cohort study in Tokyo, Japan.ParticipantsIndividuals aged 65 to 84 (N = 496).MeasurementsMultinomial logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the odds of experiencing subsequent improvement in MoCA‐J performance, as opposed to stable or deteriorating, while simultaneously adjusting for baseline MoCA‐J score and major confounders.ResultsMean age was 74.0 ± 4.8; mean MoCA‐J score was 23.7 ± 3.6. Only 40% had stable MoCA‐J performance; 30% experienced deterioration and 30% improvement. Age increment, hospitalization in previous year, slower Timed Up and Go (TUG) score, and slower maximum walking speed were predictive of subsequent MoCA‐J performance deterioration.ConclusionSlower TUG and walking speed performances were independent predictors of short‐term MoCA‐J deterioration. Research aimed at assessing lower‐extremity performance‐based tests in MCI‐related decision‐making is warranted.
Drug‐Related‐Problem Outcomes and Program Satisfaction from a Comprehensive Brown Bag Medication Review
Authors: O'Connell Mary Beth , Chang Feng , Tocco Ashley , Mills Megan E. , Hwang Jamie M. , Garwood Candice L. , Khreizat Hanan S. , Gupta Nishi S. 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo classify and quantify drug‐related problems (DRPs), determine acceptance of DRP recommendations, and assess medication review satisfaction.DesignComprehensive brown bag medication reviews.SettingSix senior centers and three senior high‐rises.ParticipantsIndividuals aged 60 and older (mean age 75.9 ± 8.5) taking five or more medications (n = 85).MeasurementsTwo investigators independently classified DRPs using modified Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe classification scheme and severity of medication error and value of service scales. Two other investigators adjudicated classification differences. Satisfaction surveys were administered immediately and 3 months after review. A DRP recommendation implementation survey was completed at least 3 months after the review.ResultsParticipants had a mean of 4.3 ± 2.8 DRPs (range 0–10). DRPs were classified as adverse reactions (30%), treatment effectiveness (28%), treatment costs (13%), information need (8%), and other (21%). Causes included drug selection (40%), wrong dosage (23%), participant problems (e.g., adherence, lack of medication knowledge, 16%), drug use process problems (12%), drug formulation (0.5%), treatment duration (0.5%), and other (7%). Interventions required drug changes (44%), prescriber input (37%), individual counseling (18%), or other (1%). DRP severities were significant (59%) or minor (35%). Participants expressed satisfaction with the program because they were able to ask questions, trusted the answers, and knew more about their medications. After 3 months, they had implemented 63% of the DRP recommendations.ConclusionOlder adults found the medication review helpful and implemented 63% of the DRP recommendations.
Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Use in Skilled Nursing Facilities: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chopra Vineet , Montoya Ana , Joshi Darius , Becker Carol , Brant Amy , McGuirk Helen , Clark Jordyn , Harrod Molly , Kuhn Latoya , Mody Lona 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo describe patterns of use, care practices, and outcomes related to peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) use in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).DesignProspective cohort study.SettingTwo community SNFs.ParticipantsAdult SNF residents with PICCs (N = 56).MeasurementsInformation on indication for PICC use, device characteristics (e.g., lumens, gauge), and participant data (comorbidities, medications) were obtained from medical records. Care practices (e.g., frequency of flushing, dressing care) and problems related to PICCs were recorded. Major (central line–associated bloodstream infection, venous thromboembolism, catheter dislodgement) and minor (migration, dressing disruption, lumen occlusion, exit site infection) complications and process measures (flushing of PICC, assessment of necessity) were recorded. Bivariate analyses with t‐tests, chi‐square tests, or Fischer exact tests were used for continuous and categorical data.ResultsParticipants were enrolled from two SNFs. The most common indication for PICC use was intravenous antibiotic delivery. The average PICC dwell time was 43 days, and most devices were single‐lumen PICCs. Major and minor complications were common and occurred in 11 (20%) and 18 (32%) participants, respectively. Occlusion (23%, n = 13), accidental dislodgement (12%, n = 7), and dressing disruption (11%, n = 6) were the commonest complications observed. Documentation regarding catheter care practices occurred in 41% of cases.ConclusionQuality improvement efforts that seek to benchmark practice, identify gaps, and institute efforts to improve PICC care and practice in SNFs appear necessary.
Risk of Nonspine Fractures in Older Adults with Sarcopenia, Low Bone Mass, or Both
Authors: Chalhoub Didier , Cawthon Peggy M. , Ensrud Kristine E. , Stefanick Marcia L. , Kado Deborah M. , Boudreau Robert , Greenspan Susan , Newman Anne B. , Zmuda Joseph , Orwoll Eric S. , Cauley Jane A. ,   the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study Research Group
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo test the hypothesis that men and women with low bone mineral density (BMD) and sarcopenia have a higher risk of fracture than those with only one or neither conditions.DesignThe Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study and the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures in women are prospective observational studies with a mean follow up of 9 (2000–2012) and 8 years (1997–2009), respectively.SettingU.S. clinical centers.ParticipantsMen (n = 5,544; mean age 73.7) and women (n = 1,114; mean age 77.6) aged 65 and older, able to walk without assistance, and without bilateral hip replacement.MeasurementsSarcopenia was defined as low appendicular lean mass plus slowness or weakness and low BMD according to the World Health Organization definition of a T‐score less than –1.0. Participants were classified as having normal BMD and no sarcopenia (3,367 men, 308 women), sarcopenia only (79 men, 48 women), low BMD only (1,986 men, 626 women), and low BMD and sarcopenia (112 men, 132 women).ResultsMen with low BMD and sarcopenia (hazard ratio (HR)=3.79, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.65–5.41) and men with low BMD only (HR=1.67, 95% CI=1.45–1.93) but not men with sarcopenia only (HR=1.14, 95% CI=0.62–2.09) had greater risk of fracture than men with normal BMD and no sarcopenia. Women with low BMD and sarcopenia (HR=2.27, 95% CI=1.37–3.76) and women with low BMD alone (HR=2.62, 95% CI=1.74–3.95), but not women with only sarcopenia, had greater risk of fracture than women with normal BMD and no sarcopenia.ConclusionMen with low BMD and sarcopenia are at especially high risk of fracture. Sarcopenia alone did not increase fracture risk in either group.
Loss of Weight in Obese Older Adults: A Biomarker of Impending Expansion of Multimorbidity?
Authors: Fabbri Elisa , Tanaka Toshiko , An Yang , Zoli Marco , Bandinelli Stefania , Guralnik Jack M. , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Boyd Cynthia M. , Studenski Stephanie A. , Harris Tamara B. , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: August 2015

ObjectivesTo determine whether weight loss in older adults may be a marker of impending burden of multimorbidity regardless of initial weight, testing the hypotheses that obesity but not overweight in elderly adults is associated with greater number of diseases than normal weight and that obese older adults who lose weight over time have the greatest burden of multimorbidity.DesignLongitudinal cohort study (Invecchiare in Chianti Study).SettingCommunity.ParticipantsIndividuals aged 60 and older at baseline followed for an average of 4 years (N = 1,025).MeasurementsMultimorbidity was measured as number of diagnosed diseases. Baseline body mass index (BMI) was categorized as normal weight (<25.0 kg/m2), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg/m2), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2). Loss of weight was defined as decrease over time in BMI of at least 0.15 kg/m2 per year. Age, sex, and education were covariates.ResultsBaseline obesity was cross‐sectionally associated with high multimorbidity and greater longitudinal increase of multimorbidity than normal weight (P = .005) and overweight (P < .001). Moreover, obese participants who lost weight over follow‐up had a significantly greater increase in multimorbidity than other participants, including obese participants who maintained or gained weight over time (P = .005). In nonobese participants, changes in weight had no effect on changes in multimorbidity over time. Sensitivity analyses confirmed that one specific disease did not drive the association and that competing mortality did not bias the association.ConclusionLoss of weight in obese older persons is a strong biomarker of impending expansion of multimorbidity. Older obese individuals who lose weight should receive thoughtful medical attention.