bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sociodemographic Determinants of Prevalence and Incidence of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Portuguese Adults
Authors: Bastos Joana , Peleteiro Bárbara , Barros Rita , Alves Luís , Severo Milton , de Fátima Pina Maria , Pinto Hugo , Carvalho Sandra , Marinho Ana , Guimarães João T. , Azevedo Ana , La Vecchia Carlo , Barros Henrique , Lunet Nuno 
Published: June 2013

AbstractBackgroundUnderstanding the determinants of Helicobacter pylori infection in adults is essential to predict the burden of H. pylori‐related diseases. We aimed to estimate the prevalence and incidence of H. pylori infection and to identify its major sociodemographic correlates in an urban population from the North of Portugal.Material and MethodsA representative sample of noninstitutionalized adult inhabitants of Porto (n = 2067) was evaluated by ELISA (IgG) and a subsample (n = 412) was tested by Western Blot to assess infection with CagA‐positive strains. Modified Poisson and Poisson regression models were used to estimate crude and sex‐, age‐, and education‐adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) and incidence rate ratios (RR), respectively.ResultsThe prevalence of H. pylori infection was 84.2% [95% confidence interval (95%CI): 82.4–86.1]. It increased across age‐groups in the more educated subjects, (18–30 years: 72.6%; ≥71 years: 88.1%; p for trend <0.001) and decreased with education in the younger (≤4 schooling years: 100.0%; ≥10 schooling years: 72.6%; p for trend <0.001). Living in a more deprived neighborhood was associated with a higher prevalence of infection, only in the younger (PR = 1.20, 95%CI: 1.03–1.38) and more educated participants (PR = 1.15, 95%CI: 1.03–1.29). Among the infected, the proportion with CagA‐positive strains was 61.7% (95%CI: 56.6–66.9). The incidence rate was 3.6/100 person‐years (median follow‐up: 3 years; 95%CI: 2.1–6.2), lower among the more educated (≥10 vs ≤9: RR = 0.25, 95%CI: 0.06–0.96). The seroreversion rate was 1.0/100 person‐years (95%CI: 0.6–1.7).ConclusionsThe prevalence of infection among adults is still very high in Portugal, suggesting that stomach cancer rates will remain high over the next few decades.
Prebiotic fibre‐incorporated whey protein crisps processed by supercritical fluid extrusion
Authors: Paraman Ilankovan , Supriyadi Susmoko , Wagner Michael E. , Rizvi Syed S. H. 
Published: June 2013

SummaryPrebiotic soluble fibre (fructooligosaccharides)‐incorporated whey protein crisps were produced by low‐shear supercritical fluid extrusion (SCFX), which utilises supercritical CO2 as an expansion agent instead of steam. Protein crisps with desirable qualities were obtained with a formulation containing 8% prebiotic fibre and 60% whey protein concentrate (WPC‐80), which gave the final product with a protein content of 49.6% (w/w). A maximum of 70% WPC‐80 and 8% prebiotic fibre could be incorporated to produce expanded protein crisps; however, increasing WPC‐80 from 50% to 70% decreased the end‐product expansion ratio from 3.1 to 1.2 and increased the product hardness and piece density from 1.3 to 2.8 kN and 0.63 to 0.75 g mL−1, respectively. Addition of 8% prebiotic fibre did not affect the textural qualities of final products. The process produced an expanded protein matrix with unique internal microstructure of uniformly distributed closed cells. Amino acid analysis indicated that 90% of the total lysine and 92% of the total essential amino acids were retained after SCFX processing and oven‐drying, indicating the preservation of protein nutritional quality during the process.
Early detection of iron deficiency in elite athletes: could microcytic anemia factor (Maf) be useful?
Authors: Dopsaj V. , Martinovic J. , Dopsaj M. 
Published: June 2013

SummaryIntroductionThe aim of this study was to establish the sensitivity and specificity of the microcytic anemia factor (Maf®), which is generated by the Coulter LH 750 analyzer in the evaluation of iron depletion and iron‐deficient erythropoiesis in athletes.MethodsA total of 142 athletes were divided into three groups: with iron depletion, with iron‐deficient erythropoiesis, and controls. The following parameters were measured: RBCs (red blood cells), Hb (hemoglobin), Hct (hematocrit), MCV (mean cellular volume), MCH (mean cell hemoglobin), MCHC (mean cell hemoglobin corpuscular), RDW (red cell distribution width), Maf®, Reticulocytes, Ferritin, sTfR (soluble transferrin receptor), Transferrin, Haptoglobin, IL‐ 6 (Interleukin‐6), hs‐CRP (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein).ResultsThe best Maf® value to exclude iron depletion in athletes was 130.3, showing a sensitivity of 72.6% and a specificity of 57.3%. The AUC was 0.690 (CI 95% 0.607–0.765, P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis for Maf® in the diagnosis of iron‐deficient erythropoiesis indicates sensitivity of 61.5%, and specificity of 93.0%, with AUC = 0.826 (CI 95% 0.754–0.885, P < 0.001) and on cutoff value 114.ConclusionsThis study shows that Maf®, generated by the Coulter LH 700 Series hematology analyzers, performs very well in discriminating healthy athletes and those with different stages of iron deficiency. Also, in cost/benefit terms, monitoring of Maf® is justified as a low cost, effective screening parameter for determining iron status in athletes.
Effects of Non‐Stoichiometry on the Microstructure, Oxygen Vacancies, and Piezoelectric Properties of CuTa2O6‐Doped NKN Ceramics
Authors: Yang Song‐Ling , Tsai Cheng‐Che , Liou Yi‐Cheng , Hong Cheng‐Shong , Chu Sheng‐Yuan 
Published: June 2013

The effects of non‐stoichiometry on the microstructure, oxygen vacancies, and piezoelectric properties of (Na0.5K0.5)xNbO3 (NKxN, where x = 0.98, 1.00, 1.01, and 1.02) ceramics doped with sintering aid CuTa2O6 (CT) doping were investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicated that a secondary phase formed in CT‐doped NKxN (NKxNCT) ceramics with x < 1.00 and that a pure phase was obtained with x ≥ 1.00. The grain size of NKxNCT ceramics increased with increasing x value due to the formation of a liquid phase. The internal bias field, activation energy, and Raman analysis for NKxNCT ceramics showed that the number of induced oxygen vacancies increased with decreasing x value. The high mechanical quality factor (Qm) value obtained for NKxNCT ceramics did not correspond to a higher concentration of oxygen vacancies, illustrating that the suitable compensation (excess Na and K) is more important than the concentration of oxygen vacancies to obtain the ceramics with high Qm values. The NKxNCT ceramics with x = 1.01 exhibited excellent piezoelectric properties, with kp and Qm values of 39.9% and 2,070, respectively.
Biogeography and evolutionary history of the Neotropical genus Saltator (Aves: Thraupini)
Authors: Chaves Jaime A. , Hidalgo José R. , Klicka John 
Published: June 2013

AbstractAimWe reconstructed the biogeographical and evolutionary history of Saltator by producing a robust phylogenetic hypothesis that we used to evaluate the geographical origins of this genus, and assessed the potential influence of major Neotropical biogeographical features on the origin of lineages within this assemblage (i.e. phylogroups).LocationNeotropics.MethodsOur phylogenetic reconstruction is based on newly sequenced mitochondrial DNA data representing all known species of Saltator. This phylogenetic hypothesis was then used to define phylogenetic structure and to assess divergence times for these clades. Phylogroups were assigned to unique biogeographical regions allowing us (1) to perform ancestral biogeographical analyses (using rasp) to reconstruct ancestral areas for all nodes within our topology, and (2) to examine the geography of speciation and evolutionary history of Saltator.ResultsThe novel phylogenetic relationships in Saltator showed that this tanager clade originated and diversified in South America in the mid‐Miocene (c. 13 Ma), ultimately yielding three distinct clades composed of a minimum of 26 phylogroups. A positive correlation was found between phylogenetic distance and co‐occurrence (percentage range overlap) for Saltator.Main conclusionsOur evolutionary scenario for Saltator is consistent with a radiation initiated by uplift of the Andes during the last 10 million years. The biogeography of Saltator and the large number of phylogroups recovered suggest that an allopatric mode of speciation is the major driver in the evolutionary history of this group of tanagers.
The British Chinese Adoption Study: orphanage care, adoption and mid‐life outcomes
Authors: Rushton Alan , Grant Margaret , Feast Julia , Simmonds John 
Published: June 2013

BackgroundWhile studies of ex‐orphanage care show adverse effects on development, the longer‐term impact on mid‐life psychosocial functioning and physical health has not been established.MethodsOrphanage records provided baseline data on a sample of 100 Hong Kong Chinese girls who were subsequently adopted into the UK. A mid‐life follow‐up using standardised questionnaires and face‐to‐face interviews assessed current circumstances, life satisfaction and mental and physical health outcomes. Comparisons were made with age‐matched UK‐born adopted and nonadopted women.ResultsHalf the group spent between 1 and 2 years in orphanages, average age at adoptive placement was 23 months and 72% participated in the follow‐up. Despite this poor early start, mid‐life outcomes were commensurate with the comparison groups in terms of mental and physical health measures. Serious psychiatric and social difficulties were largely absent. Although the timing and extent of exposure to orphanage care did not influence outcome, participants' reports of poorer quality adoptive family experience and a negative view of their adoption were significantly associated with poorer mental health outcomes (difference in means = 0.76, 95% CI 1.33–0.19, p = .01; difference in means = 1.2, 95% CI 0.68–1.73, p = .01, respectively).ConclusionsModerately depriving orphanage care did not predict enduring adverse consequences in mid‐life but subsequent poor adoption experience was associated with outcome.
A Microbiological Comparison of Poultry Products Obtained from Farmers' Markets and Supermarkets in Pennsylvania
Authors: Scheinberg Joshua , Doores Stephanie , Cutter Catherine N. 
Published: June 2013

AbstractThe popularity of farmers' markets continues to rise in the U.S.A. Raw poultry products sold at farmers' markets are of particular concern due to the United States Department of Agriculture inspection exemption status afforded to many poultry vendors. Whole chicken from farmers' markets and supermarkets in Pennsylvania were evaluated for the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. and demonstrated that 28% (28/100) and 90% (90/100) of chicken from farmers' markets, 20% (10/50) and 28% (14/50) of conventionally processed organic, and 8.0% (4/50) and 52% (26/50) of nonorganic chicken, were positive for Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter spp., respectively. Additionally, among the 90% of Campylobacter spp.‐positive farmers' market poultry, 67% of rinses were enumerable, with a mean count of 1.6 log10 cfu/mL. The results from this study demonstrate the need to develop food safety training for poultry vendors at farmers' markets in order to improve the safety of these products for public consumption.Practical ApplicationsThe popularity of farmers' markets is increasing throughout the U.S.A. Vendors are selling numerous food products, including raw chicken, which is known to harbor Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp. As such, their control continues to be a priority during commercial chicken processing. However, no study has evaluated the presence of these pathogens in raw chicken sold at farmers' markets. The data collected in this study demonstrated that of the raw, whole chicken carcasses sampled from farmers' markets in Pennsylvania, 90 and 28% were contaminated with Campylobacter spp. and Salmonella spp., respectively. These results suggest that vendors could greatly benefit from food safety training and education to address antimicrobial interventions during processing. This study also demonstrates the rationale for further research into the safety of foods sold at farmers' markets. This information may also be useful to local and state regulatory officials responsible for food safety.
Mechanical Muscle Function and Lean Body Mass During Supervised Strength Training and Testosterone Therapy in Aging Men with Low‐Normal Testosterone Levels
Authors: Kvorning Thue , Christensen Louise L. , Madsen Klavs , Nielsen Jakob L. , Gejl Kasper D. , Brixen Kim , Andersen Marianne 
Published: June 2013

ObjectivesTo examine the effect of strength training and testosterone therapy on mechanical muscle function and lean body mass (LBM) in aging men with low‐normal testosterone levels in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled 24‐week study.DesignRandomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled.SettingOdense, Denmark.ParticipantsMen aged 60 to 78, with bioavailable testosterone levels of less than 7.3 nmol/L and a waist circumference greater than 94 cm were randomized to testosterone (50–100 mg/d, n = 22) placebo (n = 23) or strength training (n = 23) for 24 weeks. The strength training group was randomized to addition of testosterone or placebo after 12 weeks. Subjects performed supervised strength training (2–3 sets with 6‐ to 10‐repetition maximum loads, 3 times per week).MeasurementsTestosterone levels, maximal voluntary contraction and rate of force development, and LBM were obtained at 0 and at Weeks 12 and 24 of the intervention.ResultsNo changes in any variables were recorded with placebo. In the strength training group, maximal voluntary contraction increased 8% after 12 weeks (P = .005). During the following 12 weeks of strength training rate of force development increased by 10% (P = .04) and maximal voluntary contraction further increased (P < .001). Mechanical muscle function was unchanged in men receiving only testosterone for 24 weeks. LBM increased only in men receiving testosterone (P = .004).ConclusionStrength training in aging men with low‐normal testosterone levels may improve mechanical muscle function, but this effect occurs without a significant increase in LBM. Clinically, only the combination of testosterone therapy and strength training resulted in an increase in mechanical muscle function and LBM.
Translation of Oral Care Practice Guidelines Into Clinical Practice by Intensive Care Unit Nurses
Authors: Ganz Freda DeKeyser , Ofra Raanan , Khalaila Rabia , Levy Hadassa , Arad Dana , Kolpak Orly , Nun Maureen Ben , Drori Yardena , Benbenishty Julie 
Published: June 2013

AbstractPurposeThe purpose of this study was to determine whether there was a change in the oral care practices of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses for ventilated patients after a national effort to increase evidence‐based oral care practices.DesignDescriptive comparison of ICU nurses in 2004–2005 and 2012.MethodTwo convenience national surveys of ICU nurses were collected in 2004–2005 (n = 218) and 2012 (n = 233). After the results of the initial survey were reported, a national effort to increase awareness of evidence‐based oral care practices was conducted that included in‐service presentations; publication of an evidence‐based protocol in a national nursing journal; publication of the survey findings in an international nursing journal; and reports to the local press. A repeat survey was conducted 7 to 8 years later. The same survey instrument was used for both periods of data collection. This questionnaire included questions about demographic and personal characteristics and a checklist of oral care practices. Nurses rated their perceived priority level concerning oral care on a scale from 0 to 100. An evidence‐based practice (EBP)[O4] score was computed representing the sum of 14 items related to equipment, solutions, assessments, and techniques associated with the evidence. The EBP score, priority score, and oral care practices were compared between the two samples. A regression model was built based on those variables that were associated with the EBP score in 2012.FindingsThere was a statistically significant increase in the use of EBPs as shown by the EBP score and in the perceived priority level of oral care. Increased EBPs were found in the areas of teeth brushing and oral assessment. Decreases were found in the use of non–evidence‐based practices, such as the use of gauze pads, tongue depressors, lemon water, and sodium bicarbonate. No differences were found in the use of chlorhexidine, toothpaste, or the nursing documentation of oral care practices. A multiple regression model was found to be significant with the time of participation (2004–2005 vs. 2012) and priority level of oral care significantly contributing to the regression model.ConclusionsThe national effort was partially successful in improving evidence‐based oral care practices; however, increased awareness to EBP also might have come from other sources. Other strategies related to knowledge translation need to be attempted and researched in this clinical setting such as the use of opinion leaders, audits and feedback, small group consensus, provider reminder systems, incentives, clinical information systems, and computer decision support systems.Clinical RelevanceThis national effort to improve EBP did reap some rewards; however, other knowledge translation strategies should be used to further improve clinical practice.
Preparation, characterization, and moisturizing effect of liposomes containing glucosamine and N‐acetyl glucosamine
Authors: Malaekeh‐Nikouei Bizhan , Golmohammadzadeh Shiva , Salmani‐Chamanabad Somaye , Mosallaei Navid , Jamialahmadi Khadijeh 
Published: June 2013

SummaryBackgroundN‐acetyl glucosamine (NAG) is a precursor for hyaluronic acid (HA) biosynthesis in the body. The main role of HA is to preserve the hydration and elasticity of the skin.AimsTo prepare and characterize liposomes containing N‐acetyl glucosamine and glucosamine (GA) and to assess their effects on the skin moisture content.MethodsLiposomal formulations containing NAG and GA were prepared using fusion and dehydration–rehydration (DRV) methods. The amount of the moisture contents of the skin before application and 0.5, 1, 3, and 5 h postapplication of the formulations were measured in human volunteers using corneometer. The occlusive factor was also estimated by in vitro method.ResultsMean size of prepared liposomes was <2 μm, and all formulations showed negative surface charge. The highest effect on skin moisture content was achieved by NAG liposomal prepared using fusion method after 3 h. The difference between moisture content of the skin treated by preparations containing GA (solution and liposomes) and empty liposomes was negligible in all tests and duration times of the experiment.The results of the moisturizing effect according to the in vivo method indicated that there was a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the skin moisture contents after application of liposomal formulation containing NAG 7 mm and empty liposomes during the 5‐h postapplication period.ConclusionsOur study demonstrated the potential of liposomes for improved NAG localization in the skin, and so it could be suggested as a new topical moisturizing formulation in skin care products.
Longitudinal evaluation of cryolipolysis efficacy: two case studies
Authors: Bernstein Eric F 
Published: June 2013

SummaryCryolipolysis treatment, or cold‐induced destruction of adipocytes, provides a noninvasive option for localized subcutaneous fat reduction without damaging the overlying skin or adjacent structures. This case study examines the long‐term visibility of fat layer reduction subsequent to cryolipolysis treatment, through longitudinal evaluation. Two male subjects were unilaterally treated on one flank. Baseline and postprocedure photographs (at 2 or 5 years) of the treated and contralateral untreated flanks display durable results despite natural fluctuations in body weight.
High resolution chromosomal microarray in undiagnosed neurological disorders
Authors: Howell Katherine B , Kornberg Andrew J , Harvey A Simon , Ryan Monique M , Mackay Mark T , Freeman Jeremy L , Rodriguez Casero M Victoria , Collins Kevin J , Hayman Michael , Mohamed Ahmad , Ware Tyson L , Clark Damian , Bruno Damien L , Burgess Trent , Slater Howard , McGillivray George , Leventer Richard J 
Published: June 2013

AimDespite advances in medical investigation, many children with neurological conditions remain without a diagnosis, although a genetic aetiology is often suspected. Chromosomal microarray (CMA) screens for copy number variants (CNVs) and long continuous stretches of homozygosity (LCSH) and may further enhance diagnostic yield. Although recent studies have identified pathogenic CNVs in intellectual disability, autism and epilepsy, the utility of CMA testing in a broader cohort of children with neurologic disorders has not been reported.MethodsTwo hundred fifteen patients with neurological conditions of unknown aetiology were seen over a 6‐month period and were prospectively tested by CMA using high‐resolution single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarrays (Illumina HumanCytoSNP‐12 v2.1 or Affymetrix 2.7M).ResultsThirty of 215 (14%) patients tested had an abnormal CMA. Twenty‐nine had CNVs (13%) and one (0.5%) a clinically significant stretch of homozygosity. Twenty (9.3%) had a CMA finding considered to be pathogenic or involved in susceptibility to the condition of interest, and 10 (4.7%) had findings of unknown significance. Their phenotypes included infantile spasms and other epilepsies, neuromuscular conditions, ataxia, movement disorders, microcephaly and malformations of cortical development. At least one third of patients did not meet national funding criteria for CMA at the time of presentation.ConclusionsCMA detected clinically significant abnormalities in a broad range of neurologic phenotypes of unknown aetiology. This test should be considered a first‐tier investigation of children with neurologic disorders in whom the initial clinical assessment does not indicate a likely aetiology, especially those with severe epilepsies and neurologically abnormal neonates.
Ultrasonographic Findings of the Pancreas in Cats with Elevated Serum Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity
Authors: Williams J.M. , Panciera D.L. , Larson M.M. , Werre S.R. 
Published: June 2013

BackgroundPancreatitis is a common disease in cats that is difficult to diagnose.Hypothesis/ObjectivesTo determine the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonographic changes of the pancreas with serum feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI) as the standard for diagnosis of pancreatitis.Animals35 cats with clinical signs consistent with pancreatitis with an abdominal ultrasound examination and serumfPLIconcentration measured within 3 days of the ultrasound.MethodsRetrospective study: Pancreatic thickness, pancreatic margination, pancreatic echogenicity, and peripancreatic fat echogenicity were evaluated. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated with an elevated serumfPLIconcentration indicative of pancreatitis as the standard for diagnosis.ResultsSerumfPLIwas elevated and diagnostic for pancreatitis in 19 of 35 cats. The single ultrasound characteristic with the highest sensitivity was hyperechoic peripancreatic fat at 68% (95% confidence interval = 44–87%), indicating a moderate probability that cats with pancreatitis will have this abnormality on ultrasonographic examination. Specificity was >90% for each of increased pancreatic thickness, abnormal pancreatic margin, and hyperechoic peripancreatic fat. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound were 84% (95% confidence interval = 60–97%) and 75% (95% confidence interval = 48–93%), respectively, in cats with elevated serumfPLIindicative of pancreatitis.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceThe presence of a thick left limb of the pancreas, severely irregular pancreatic margins, and hyperechoic peripancreatic fat in cats with appropriate clinical signs and elevated serumfPLIare highly supportive of pancreatitis.