bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Fabrication, Gastromucoadhesivity, Swelling, and Degradation of Zein–Chitosan Composite Ultrafine Fibers
Authors: Wongsasulak Saowakon , Puttipaiboon Natthon , Yoovidhya Tipaporn 
Published: April 2013

AbstractFabrication, via electrospinning, and characterization of an ultrafine structure architected from a blend of hydrophobic zein and hydrophilic chitosan (CS) were conducted. Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and nonionic surfactant, namely, Tween® 40, were employed to improve the electrospinnability of the blend, while ethanol was used as a solvent for zein. The effects of ethanol (EtOH) concentration (85% and 90%) and ratio of zein/PEO/CS (95/2.5/2.5 and 87.5/10/2.5) on the fiber morphology as well as gastromucoadhesivity against porcine stomach mucosa were then investigated; polymer‐mucosa adhesion was also investigated via Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Swelling and degradation of the composite ultrafine fibers were investigated under 2 simulated gastric conditions, namely, at pH 2 without pepsin and at pH 1.2 with pepsin. Using 85% EtOH as a solvent for zein resulted in a spider‐web‐like morphology; the maximum detachment force (MDF), which is an indirect indicator of the gastromucoadhesivity was nevertheless higher. Zein‐based ultrafine fibers exhibited higher MDF than the zein‐PEO‐CS composite; however, the cohesiveness of the composite fibers was higher. FTIR spectroscopic results indicated molecular interactions between the composite fibers and mucin functional groups. Swelling of the composite ultrafine fibers in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) at pH 2 without pepsin was not different from that in SGF at pH 1.2 with pepsin. Nevertheless, degradation of the composite fibers in SGF at pH 2 without pepsin was much less than that in SGF at pH 1.2 with pepsin; only 20% degradation was noted in the former case.
Protein Oxidation at Different Salt Concentrations Affects the Cross‐Linking and Gelation of Pork Myofibrillar Protein Catalyzed by Microbial Transglutaminase
Authors: Li Chunqiang , Xiong Youling L. , Chen Jie 
Published: April 2013

Abstract In a fabricated then restructured meat product, protein gelation plays an essential role in producing desirable binding and fat‐immobilization properties. In the present study, myofibrillar protein (MFP) suspended in 0.15, 0.45, and 0.6 M NaCl was subjected to hydroxyl radical stress for 2 or 24 h and then treated with microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) in 0.6 M NaCl (E : S = 1 : 20) at 4 and 15 °C for 2 h. Protein cross‐linking and dynamic rheological tests were performed to assess the efficacy of MTGase for mediating the gelation of oxidized MFP. MTGase treatments affected more remarkable polymerization of myosin in oxidized MFP than in nonoxidized, especially for samples oxidized at 0.6 M NaCl. Notably, the extent of MTGase‐induced myosin cross‐linking at 15 °C in oxidized MFP improved up to 46.8%, compared to 31.6% in nonoxidized MFP. MTGase treatment at 4 °C for MFP oxidized in 0.6 M NaCl, but not MFP oxidized in 0.15 M NaCl, produced stronger gels than nonoxidized MFP (P < 0.05). The final (75 °C) storage modulus (G′) of oxidized MFP gels was significantly greater than that of nonoxidized, although the G′ of the transient peak (∼44.5 °C) showed the opposite trend. Overall, oxidation at high salt concentrations significantly improved MTGase‐mediated myosin cross‐linking and MFP gelation. This might be because under this condition, MTGase had an increased accessibility to glutamine and lysine residues to effectively initiate protein–protein interactions and gel network formation.
Assembly‐free metagenomic analysis reveals new metabolic capabilities in surface ocean bacterioplankton
Authors: Luo Haiwei , Moran Mary Ann 
Published: April 2013

SummaryUncovering the metabolic capabilities of microbes is key to understanding global energy flux and nutrient transformations. Since the vast majority of environmental microorganisms are uncultured, metagenomics has become an important tool to genotype the microbial community. This study uses a recently developed computational method to confidently assign metagenomic reads to microbial clades without the requirement of metagenome assembly by comparing the evolutionary pattern of nucleotide sequences at non‐synonymous sites between metagenomic and orthologous reference genes. We found evidence for new, ecologically relevant metabolic pathways in several lineages of surface ocean bacterioplankton using theGlobalOceanSurvey (GOS) metagenomic data, including assimilatory sulfate reduction and alkaline phosphatase capabilities in the alphaproteobacterialSAR11 clade, and proteorhodopsin‐like genes in the cyanobacterial genusProchlorococcus. These findings raise new hypotheses about microbial roles in energy flux and organic matter transformation in the ocean.
Pro‐inflammatory capacity of classically activated monocytes relates positively to muscle mass and strength
Authors: Beenakker Karel G. M. , Westendorp Rudi G. J. , de Craen Anton J. M. , Slagboom Pieternella E. , van Heemst Diana , Maier Andrea B. 
Published: April 2013

SummaryIn mice, monocytes that exhibit a pro‐inflammatory profile enter muscle tissue after muscle injury and are crucial for clearance of necrotic tissue and stimulation of muscle progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation. The aim of this study was to test if pro‐inflammatory capacity of classically activated (M1) monocytes relates to muscle mass and strength in humans. This study included 191 male and 195 female subjects (mean age 64.2 years (SD 6.4) and 61.9 ± 6.4, respectively) of the Leiden Longevity Study. Pro‐inflammatory capacity of M1 monocytes was assessed by ex vivo stimulation of whole blood with Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 agonist lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TLR‐2/1 agonist tripalmitoyl‐S‐glycerylcysteine (Pam3Cys‐SK4), both M1 phenotype activators. Cytokines that stimulate M1 monocyte response (IFN‐γ and GM‐CSF) as well as cytokines that are secreted by M1 monocytes (IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐12, and IL‐1β) were measured. Analyses were adjusted for age, height, and body fat mass. Upon stimulation with LPS, the cytokine production capacity of INF‐γ, GM‐CSF, and TNF‐α was significantly positively associated with lean body mass, appendicular lean mass and handgrip strength in men, but not in women. Upon stimulation with Pam3Cys‐SK4, IL‐6; TNF‐α; and Il‐1β were significantly positively associated with lean body mass and appendicular lean in women, but not in men. Taken together, this study shows that higher pro‐inflammatory capacity of M1 monocytes upon stimulation is associated with muscle characteristics and sex dependent.
Behavioural responses of free‐ranging western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) to olfactory cues of historical and recently introduced predators
Authors: Mella Valentina S. A. , Cooper Christine E. , Davies Stephen J. J. F. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractPredation risk influences foraging decisions and time allocation of prey species, and may result in habitat shifts from potentially dangerous to safer areas. We examined a wild population of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) to test the efficacy of predator faecal odour in influencing time allocated to different behaviours and inducing changes in habitat use. Kangaroos were exposed to fresh faeces of a historical predator, the dingo (Canis lupus dingo), a recently introduced predator, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), a herbivore (horse, Equus caballus) and an unscented control simultaneously. Kangaroos did not increase vigilance in predator‐scented areas. However, they investigated odour sources by approaching and sniffing; more time was spent investigating fox odour than control odours. Kangaroos then exhibited a clear anti‐predator response to predator odours, modifying their space use by rapidly escaping, then avoiding fox and dingo odour sources. Our results demonstrate that wild western grey kangaroos show behavioural responses to predator faeces, investigating then avoiding these olfactory cues of potential predation risk, rather than increasing general vigilance. This study contributes to our understanding of the impact of introduced mammalian predators on marsupial prey and demonstrates that a native Australian marsupial can recognize and respond to the odour of potential predators, including one that has been recently introduced.
Evaluation of synthetic sex pheromone for monitoring and management of raspberry crown borer Pennisetia marginata (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae)
Authors: Teasdale Carolyn , Judd Gary J. R. , Gries Regine , Gries Gerhard 
Published: April 2013

Abstract
(E,Z)‐3,13‐Octadecadienal (E3,Z13‐18:Ald) was recently identified as a sex pheromone component of the raspberry crown borer Pennisetia marginata (Harris) (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae). Although unstable, this pheromone may have utility for monitoring the seasonal abundance and flight phenology of adult P. marginata, as well as for developing control tactics, such as disorienting mate‐seeking males. Experiments conducted in raspberry and blackberry crops tested the effect of lure and trap attributes on captures of male P. marginata.
Increasing lure loads (10, 100 or 1000 µg) of E3,Z13‐18:Ald significantly increased trap captures.
Freshly prepared lures were significantly more attractive than lures aged for 2–10 days at room temperature.
White wing traps and white delta traps were more effective than green delta or green bucket traps.
Trap height in the crop canopy had no effect on the capture of males.
When sex pheromone components of three other sesiid moth species were added to E3,Z13‐18:Ald, the attraction of male P. marginata was reduced and, thus, these components were identified as pheromone antagonists.
Pheromone‐based mass trapping with 25 wing traps per hectare reduced captures of males in traps baited with a low‐dose (10 µg) pheromone lure by 67–87% in 2011.
Moving from peanut extract to peanut components: towards validation of component‐resolved IgE tests
Authors: Aalberse J. A. , Meijer Y. , Derksen N. , van der Palen‐Merkus T. , Knol E. , Aalberse R. C. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackgroundReplacement of peanut extracts by recombinant peanut components is an important step in allergy serologic testing. Criteria are needed for the unbiased inclusion of patients into a study to validate such a replacement.MethodsPlasma samples from 64 peanut‐positive children (42 reactors, 22 nonreactors in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge) were used to compare IgE reactivity to six recombinant peanut allergens with reactivity to natural peanut proteins extracted at neutral or low pH. We tested the hypothesis that poor extractability of Ara h 9 and other basic allergens at neutral pH leads to under‐representation of patients with such sensitization.ResultsIgE reactivity to the components did not fully explain IgE reactivity to peanut extract in 5 of 32 reactors with IgE to peanut extract ≤100 kUA/l. IgE reactivity to components was stronger than to the extract in 11 plasma samples, which was largely due to a low Ara h 8 reactivity of the extract. IgE reactivity to Ara h 9 was much lower than reactivity to other basic proteins, some of which bound IgE well in the RAST, but lost IgE reactivity upon immunoblotting.ConclusionsConventional peanut extracts are deficient in significant IgE‐binding components. The inclusion of patients for a validation study should be based on serology performed with improved peanut reagents to avoid a bias against these under‐represented, potentially important allergens. To judge clinical relevance of an allergen, the reagent used for inclusion of patients needs to be efficient in detecting IgE to this component.
Cedar and cypress pollen counts are associated with the prevalence of allergic diseases in Japanese schoolchildren
Authors: Yoshida K. , Adachi Y. , Akashi M. , Itazawa T. , Murakami Y. , Odajima H. , Ohya Y. , Akasawa A. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackgroundPatients allergic to pollen have been known to become more symptomatic during pollen season compared with the nonpollen season. However, there are few studies regarding whether higher exposure to pollen might increase the prevalence of allergic diseases.MethodsAn ecological analysis was conducted to evaluate whether pollen exposure is associated with the prevalence of allergic diseases in schoolchildren. Pollen count data of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica) and Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), which are the major pollen allergens in Japan, were obtained from each prefecture. The prevalence of allergic diseases in schoolchildren in each prefecture was based on a nationwide cross‐sectional survey using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire.ResultsAfter omitting three prefectures where pollen data were not available, data of 44 prefectures were analysed. The prevalence of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in children aged 6–7 years was positively associated with both cedar and cypress pollen counts (P = 0.01, both), whereas the prevalence of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in children aged 13–14 years was positively associated with only cypress pollen counts (P = 0.003). Furthermore, the prevalence of asthma was positively associated with cedar pollen counts in 6‐ to 7‐year‐old children (P = 0.003) but not cypress pollen counts in either age group.ConclusionsThere are ecological associations between pollen counts and the prevalence of allergic diseases in Japanese schoolchildren. Further studies are needed to determine whether the difference between the effects of cedar and cypress pollens is attributable to pollen counts or allergenicity.
An evaluation of non‐Luer safety connectors for neuraxial procedures
Authors: Sharpe P. , Scott S. , Gross J. M. 
Published: April 2013

SummaryWe evaluated seven non‐Luer spinal needles in a two‐part study. In part 1, we measured the time to see and collect simulated cerebrospinal fluid. In part 2, clinicians scored needle quality using a standardised questionnaire. The mean (SD) times to see cerebrospinal fluid varied in the lateral position from 4.2 (0.3) s (Vygon) to 25.2 (1.5) s (Sarstedt), and in the sitting position from 1.7 (0.2) s (BBraun) to 6.6 (0.3) s (Sarstedt). The time to collect cerebrospinal fluid varied from 43 (2.5) s (Vygon) to 139 (9.6) s (Pajunk) and from 19 (0.4) s (BBraun) to 34 (1.7) s (Pajunk), for the lateral and sitting positions, respectively. Median (IQR [range]) satisfaction scores in 205 needle function assessments were as follows: Sarstedt 9.0 (8.0–9.3 [5.0–10.0]); BD 8.0 (7.0–9.5 [3.0–10.0]); Pajunk 9.0 (8.0–9.8 [5.0–10.0]); Neurax 8.0 (7.0–9.0 [2.0–9.0]); Smiths 8.0 (7.0–9.0 [4.0–10.0]); Vygon 8.0 (7.5–9.0 [5.0–10.0]); and BBraun 9.0 (9.0–10.0 [7.0–10.0]). The difference in satisfaction scores between the BBraun and Neurax was significant (p < 0.01). A number of recurrent problems were found during the evaluation. The variation in time to collect cerebrospinal fluid samples may have implications for non‐anaesthetic practice. This evaluation provides a baseline to assist others in commencing their procurement process.
Melatonin Attenuates Isoflurane‐Induced Acute Memory Impairments in Aged Rats
Authors: Liu Yajie , Ni Cheng , Tang Yi , Tian Xiaosheng , Zhou Yang , Qian Min , Li Zhengqian , Chui Dehua , Guo Xiangyang 
Published: April 2013

AbstractMelatonin is an endogenous hormone with neuroprotective effects. Melatonin levels in elderly patients are reduced after surgeries that require anaesthesia. Whether reduced melatonin levels are important for postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) remains unclear. Here, we investigated the effects of melatonin on cognitive dysfunctions induced by isoflurane and mechanisms underlying these effects. Seventy‐two 20‐month‐old Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 12). These groups included M1 and M10 groups that received intraperitoneal melatonin at 1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg, respectively, and an ISO group that received 4 hr of inhaled 2% isoflurane. They also included M1+ISO and M10+ISO groups that received 1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg of melatonin plus 4 hr of inhaled 2% isoflurane, respectively, and a control group that received an equal volume of saline. Injections were administered daily for 14 consecutive days. Memory was assessed in the Morris water maze. Plasma and hippocampi were harvested to determine melatonin concentrations and MT1/MT2 receptor expression. Rats treated only with isoflurane showed significantly longer latencies in Morris water maze test trials compared with the control group, with shorter time in the probe trial (p < 0.05). Although plasma melatonin levels and MT2 expression in the hippocampus were significantly decreased, MT1 expression was higher in the isoflurane group than in the control group (p < 0.001). However, these parameters did not significantly vary in animals administered melatonin compared with controls. Isoflurane may induce cognitive dysfunction by influencing melatonin and MT1/MT2 levels. Melatonin can improve cognitive dysfunction by normalizing plasma melatonin and its receptor levels.
Response to lenalidomide in myelodysplastic syndromes with del(5q): influence of cytogenetics and mutations
Authors: Mallo Mar , del Rey Mónica , Ibáñez Mariam , Calasanz Mª José , Arenillas Leonor , Larráyoz Mª José , Pedro Carmen , Jerez Andrés , Maciejewski Jaroslaw , Costa Dolors , Nomdedeu Meritxell , Diez‐Campelo María , Lumbreras Eva , González‐Martínez Teresa , Marugán Isabel , Such Esperanza , Cervera José , Cigudosa Juan C. , Álvarez Sara , Florensa Lourdes , Hernández Jesús Mª , Solé Francesc 
Published: April 2013

SummaryLenalidomide is an effective drug in low‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with isolated del(5q), although not all patients respond. Studies have suggested a role for TP53 mutations and karyotype complexity in disease progression and outcome. In order to assess the impact of complex karyotypes on treatment response and disease progression in 52 lenalidomide‐treated patients with del(5q) MDS, conventional G‐banding cytogenetics (CC), single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP‐A), and genomic sequencing methods were used. SNP‐A analysis (with control sample, lymphocytes CD3+, in 30 cases) revealed 5q losses in all cases. Other recurrent abnormalities were infrequent and were not associated with lenalidomide responsiveness. Low karyotype complexity (by CC) and a high baseline platelet count (>280 × 109/l) were associated with the achievement of haematological response (P = 0·020, P = 0·013 respectively). Unmutated TP53 status showed a tendency for haematological response (P = 0·061). Complete cytogenetic response was not observed in any of the mutated TP53 cases. By multivariate analysis, the most important predictor for lenalidomide treatment failure was a platelet count <280 × 109/l (Odds Ratio = 6·17, P = 0·040). This study reveals the importance of a low baseline platelet count, karyotypic complexity and TP53 mutational status for response to lenalidomide treatment. It supports the molecular study of TP53 in MDS patients treated with lenalidomide.
Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis syndrome with trigeminal brainstem involvement
Authors: Redondo Robles Laura , Fernández Menéndez Santiago , Galiana Ivars Alberto , Vázquez Sánchez Fernando , Tejada García Javier , Guerra Laso Jose Manuel 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is defined as the association of characteristic osteoarticular and dermatological manifestations. The diagnosis is based on clinical and radiological aspects, but in the recent years it has been described as an extension of other systems different from the skin and the bones. We report the first case of parenchymal brainstem trigeminal involvement in the context of clinically‐active SAPHO syndrome. We review the literature and discuss the underlying mechanism of this multi‐organ presentation.
Completely steroid‐free immunosuppression in liver transplantation: a randomized study
Authors: Ramirez Carlo B. , Doria Cataldo , Frank Adam M. , Armenti Stephen T. , Marino Ignazio R. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractIntroductionCorticosteroids (CS) have been standard immunosuppression to prevent and treat rejection. However, CS are associated with increased risk of infection, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and accelerated hepatitis C virus (HCV) recurrence post‐orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). This study assesses the safety and efficacy of CS‐free immunosuppressive regimen in adult OLT.MethodsA two‐yr, prospective, randomized study of CS with delayed withdrawal (CS) or CS‐free regimen with basiliximab, tacrolimus, and enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium (EC‐MPS) was performed in 39 patients (CS=20; CS‐free=19). CS group received intra‐operative methylprednisolone weaned by six months. HCV patients had HCV PCR pre‐OLT and 0.5, one, three, and six months post‐OLT. Protocol liver biopsies were performed at OLT, 2 and 24 wk post‐OLT or when indicated.ResultsRejection occurred in two patients. Patient survival at one yr (100% vs. 95%), three yr (85% vs. 63%), and five yr (80% vs. 63%) post‐OLT were similar between CS and CS‐free group, respectively. Death‐censored graft survival at one yr (100% vs. 95%), three yr (85% vs. 63%), and five yr (75% vs. 63%) were also similar. The risk of new‐onset DM, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and weight gain was similar between groups.ConclusionCS avoidance with basiliximab, calcineurin inhibitor, and EC‐MPS is safe and effective as CS‐ containing immunosuppression in adult OLT.
An examination of the influences on New South Wales general practitioners regarding the provision of opioid substitution therapy
Authors: Holliday Simon , Magin Parker , Oldmeadow Christopher , Attia John , Dunbabin Janet , Henry Julie‐Marie , Lintzeris Nicholas , Goode Susan , Dunlop Adrian 
Published: April 2013

AbstractIntroduction.Few general practitioners (GP) prescribe opioid substitution therapy. Our aim was to analyse their previously identified motivating factors by describing their frequency and demographic associations.Methods.An anonymous, cross‐sectional questionnaire‐based survey on opioid prescribing in pain and dependency was distributed across five New South Wales Divisions of GPs. Questions elicited opinions on 11 barriers and five facilitators previously described in qualitative literature. Data were analysed against demographic variables, including opioid substitution therapy prescriber (OSTP) status and postgraduate training status. ‘Profiles’ of non‐OSTPs were then constructed using latent class analysis.Results.Of the 1735 surveys posted, there were 404 responses (23.3%), with 16% respondents being OSTPs. Frequently reported barriers included: ‘negative experiences with the opioid dependent’ (72%), ‘heavy workload’ (60%) and ‘lack of specialist support’ (58%), with most barriers less frequent among OSTPs. Facilitating factors included: ‘more accessible specialist support’ (75%), ‘more accessible training’ (67%) and ‘better evidence of safety and efficacy’ (64%), with the latter two significantly less frequently among OSTPs. Latent class analysis of the non‐OSTPs revealed three distinct clusters. The smallest (‘class 3’) had the least barriers and resembled OSTPs demographically.Discussion and Conclusions.The pattern of motivating factors towards the psychological, social and behavioural challenges of the management of dependency has a predominantly negative bias. However, this lessens with postgraduate training and OSTP experience. Structural and logistical options are identified to promote OSTP recruitment and retention. GPs resembling class 3 may be more amenable to becoming OSTPs and may be worth targeting for recruitment. [Holliday S, Magin P, Oldmeadow C, Dunbabin J, Henry J‐M, Lintzeris N, Attia J, Goode S, Dunlop A. An examination of the influences on New South Wales general practitioners regarding the provision of opioid substitution therapy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:495–503]