bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproducing the scalp microbiota community: co‐colonization of a 3D reconstructed human epidermis with C. acnes and M. restricta
Authors: Meloni Marisa , Balzaretti Silvia , Collard Nathalie , Desaint Stephane , Laperdrix Celine
Published: January 2021

Objective

A 3D reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) model colonized with specific microbial strains was developed to model the complex interactions between strains of the human scalp hair.

Methods

Reconstructed human epidermis was colonized with Cutibacterium acnes and Malassezia restricta for 72 h. The epidermal model was characterized in terms of morphology, using immune‐labelling targeting biomarkers for barrier structure, proliferation, differentiation and anti‐microbial defence. The barrier function was assessed by transepithelial electrical eesistance (TEER) measurements. In order to study the microorganisms on the epidermal model, viable counts and phenotype ultrastructure analysis were performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results

The RHE colonized with C. acnes did not lead to severe modifications of the physiological barrier integrity and viability, though it shows aggregates. M. restricta formed large aggregates by a close interaction with the RHE, thus causing both a strong decrease in barrier function and structure degradation and an increased human beta defensin 2 (HBD2) expression. The co‐colonized model resulted in barrier depletion, but the overall damage was less severe, respecting the single colonization with M. restricta. The developed ‘scalp model’ allowed to identify morphological modifications leading to uncontrolled epidermal renewal.

Conclusion

This study shows a pre‐clinical model that recapitulates the interactions that can occur between site‐specific microbial strains and keratinocytes in dandruff condition. The model can be applied to assess ingredients and products’ mechanism of action.
Obesity regulates miR‐467/HoxA10 axis on osteogenic differentiation and fracture healing by BMSC‐derived exosome LncRNA H19
Authors: Wang Yijun , Chen Wentao , Zhao Liang , Li Yadong , Liu Zhenyu , Gao Hua , Bai Xiaodong , Wang Baojun
Published: January 2021

This study explored the therapeutic effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes on the treatment of obesity‐induced fracture healing. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to detect the expression of lncRNA H19, miR‐467 and Hoxa10 and combined with WB detection to detect osteogenic markers (RUNX2, OPN, OCN). Determine whether exosomes have entered BMSCs by immunofluorescence staining. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin red staining (ARS) staining were used to detect ALP activity and calcium deposition. We found that high‐fat treatment can inhibit the secretion of BMSCs‐derived exosomes and affect the expression of H19 carried by them. In vivo and in vitro experiments show that high‐fat or obesity factors can inhibit the expression of osteogenic markers and reduce the staining activity of ALP and ARS. The treatment of exosomes from normal sources can reverse the phenomenon of osteogenic differentiation and abnormal fracture healing. Further bioinformatics analysis found that miR‐467 as a regulatory molecule of lncRNA H19 and Hoxa10, and we verified the targeting relationship of the three through dual luciferase report experiments. Further, we found similar phenomena in ALP and ARS staining. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes improve fracture healing caused by obesity.
Dynamic navigation guided surgery and prosthetics for immediate loading of complete‐arch restoration
Authors: Pozzi Alessandro , Hansson Lars , Carosi Paolo , Arcuri Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

Objective

To assess clinical and radiological performance of novel digital workflow integrating dynamic guided surgery, to streamline execution of implant placement, soft and bone tissue sculpturing, and immediate delivery of navigation guided complete‐arch prosthesis.

Materials and Methods

This proof of concept prospective single cohort study investigated 10 consecutive patients (three males, seven females; mean age 62.5 ± 8.9 years; range, 48–75) requiring at least one complete‐arch fixed dental prostheses (FDP) in both jaws, treated between January and August 2019. Primary outcomes were implant and prosthetic success rates, surgical and prosthetic complications. Secondary outcomes were marginal bone loss (MBL), implant stability quotient (ISQ), periodontal parameters (plaque and bleeding indexes).

Results

Sixty implants (32 NobelParallel TiUltra and 28 NobelActive TiUltra, Nobel Biocare) were placed and 14 complete‐arch FDPs immediately loaded (mean follow‐up 16.2 ± 1.7 months, 14–18). One implant failed and was immediately replaced. No other surgical or biological complications occurred, accounting for a cumulative success rate of 98.3%. No prosthetic complication occurred, leading to 100% prosthetic success rate. Mean ISQ at implant placement was 71 ± 2.8 (65–78). The mean MBL was −0.53 ± 0.28 mm (−0.22 to −1.12 mm). Plaque and bleeding scores were 14.4 ± 8.18 and 7.15 ± 4.4, respectively.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this proof‐of‐concept dynamic navigation was effective to deliver in the planned coordinates both implants and prosthesis and guide bone and soft tissue sculpturing. Immediate loading of digitally prefabricated esthetically driven complete‐arch FDP was facilitated, resulting in high implant and prosthetic success rates.

Clinical Significance

The investigated digital workflow integrating dynamic navigation may overcome the difficulties related to immediate positioning and loading of digitally prefabricated complete‐arch FDP. The navigation guided soft and bone tissues sculpturing, associated to xenogeneic collagen matrix grafting, represented a predictable technique to achieve the digitally planned interface, reestablishing the mucosal dimension required for the protection of underlying bone while maintaining tissue health.
Physicochemical properties and rheological behavior of chrysanthemum powder made by superfine grinding and high pressure homogenization
Authors: Li Borui , Cornish Katrina , Zheng Zhian , Wu Min
Published: January 2021

The effects of superfine grinding on the properties of chrysanthemum powder (CP) and high pressure homogenization (HPH) on the rheological properties of CP suspensions were investigated. Superfine grinding reduced particle size to a D50 of 28.45 μm. Instantaneous flow function and wall friction tests demonstrated that superfine ground CP had poor flowability and was more cohesive than more coarsely ground samples. Superfine grinding increased thermal stability and reduced the crystallinity of CP. After HPH treatment, the apparent viscosity and consistency coefficient (k, from 0.027 ± 0.005 to 1.847 ± 0.472) of CP suspension was significantly improved (p <.05), indicating that HPH treatment increased the consistency and reduced the fluidity of CP suspensions. As the HPH pressure increased from 40 to 120 MPa, the storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G") of the CP suspensions increased, which fitted well with the Power Law model (R2 >.961). The CP suspension is a non‐Newtonian fluid with shear thinning behavior. Flow and rheological characteristics are measured under different consolidation pressures and HPH pressures, respectively. These findings reveal the potential application of superfine grinding and high pressure homogenization in the development of CP.

Practical application

The use of superfine grinding and high pressure homogenization to process CP has broad application prospects, such as the preparation of micronized Chinese medicinal powders in the pharmaceutical industry and functional foods and beverages in the food industry.
Effects of epidural anesthesia on postpartum maternity blues and fatigue and its relation to changes in oxytocin
Authors: Shishido Eri , Shuo Takuya , Shinohara Kazuyuki , Horiuchi Shigeko
Published: January 2021

Aims

This study aimed to clarify (a) the association of the delivery mode (i.e., epidural anesthesia or no epidural) with women's changes in longitudinal salivary oxytocin (OT) levels from late pregnancy to early postpartum, and (b) the association of these changes with postpartum maternity blues (MB) and fatigue.

Methods

We used a longitudinal observational design. We performed measurements of the saliva samples at four measurement points: (a) 36–37 gestational weeks, (b) 38–39 gestational weeks, (c) 1–2 days after birth, and (d) 4–5 days after birth. The inclusion criterion was low‐risk primiparous women who were planning to have vaginal delivery. We used Stein's MB scale to evaluate postpartum data and a visual analog scale to examine “postpartum fatigue”. We determined the association between the MB/fatigue scores and the changes in the OT levels by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

Results

There were 29 women who delivered with epidural anesthesia and 29 women who did not. A significantly higher mean salivary OT level was observed in the women with epidural anesthesia at 1–2 days after birth than at 36–37 gestational weeks. The mean OT level at 4–5 days postpartum was significantly lower than that at 1–2 days postpartum. The correlation of the MB score with the salivary OT level at 4–5 days postpartum was ρ = −0.33, p = .01.

Conclusions

Early postpartum OT level decreased with epidural anesthesia and showed a negative correlation with postpartum MB and fatigue. Healthcare providers should recognize that women who had epidural anesthesia need specific supportive care.
Ultrasonic manifestations and clinical analysis of 25 uterine rupture cases
Authors: Xiao Juhua , Zhang Chao , Zhang Yun , Zhao Fei , Yang Jiale , Li Gang , Zhou Xin
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To explore the risk factors, ultrasonic manifestations, clinical features, and maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with complete uterine rupture.

Basic procedures

All cases of complete uterine rupture diagnosed and treated in Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2012 to July 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Risk factors, ultrasonic manifestations, clinical features, and maternal and infant outcomes were analyzed.

Result

All patients had a history of uterine surgery or induced abortion. Ultrasound examination revealed 15 cases of complete rupture of the uterus, five cases of missed diagnosis, three cases of misdiagnosis, and two cases of direct emergency operation without ultrasonography because of typical clinical manifestations and critical conditions. The clinical manifestations of 25 cases of uterine rupture varied from asymptomatic to clinical signs of “resting” rupture of the uterus to severe pain, hypotension, shock, and coma. All patients underwent surgical treatment, of which one case underwent DIC and died after rescue. The maternal mortality rate was 4% (1/25), the mortality rate of newborns (two pregnant women was twins) was 44% (12/27).

Conclusion

A history of uterine surgery is a major risk factor for uterine rupture. Attention should be paid not only to women who are pregnant again after cesarean section but also to those who have undergone other uterine operations (such as laparoscopic myomectomy, laparoscopic cornual pregnancy removal, etc.), delivery plans should be formulated accordingly. In cases of sudden abdominal pain during pregnancy or childbirth, the possibility of uterine rupture should be considered to achieve a timely and correct diagnosis and treatment.
Taxing multinationals: The scope for enforcement cooperation
Authors: Hindriks Jean , Nishimura Yukihiro
Published: January 2021

Policymakers seeking to raise more tax revenues from multinational enterprises have two alternatives: to raise tax rates or to devote more resources to improve tax compliance. Tougher tax enforcement increases the cost of profit shifting, and thus mitigates tax competition. We present a tax‐competition model with two policy instruments (the corporate tax rate and the tightness of tax enforcement). In line with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development's Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project, we analyze the scope for enforcement cooperation among asymmetric countries, considering that taxes are set noncooperatively. We show that the low‐tax country may fail to cooperate if asymmetry is large enough and that tax havens would never agree to cooperate. Then we identify two drivers for enforcement cooperation. The first driver of cooperation is the complementarity of enforcement actions across countries. This is because the efficiency loss from enforcement dispersion is greater under complementarity. The second driver of cooperation is tax leadership by the high‐tax country, which acts as a level‐playing field in the tax competition and reduces the extent of disagreement on enforcement.
How Can We Understand and Describe “Non‐Narrative” Narratives? A Qualitative Study of Workers with Recurring Sick Leave
Authors: Noda Miki , Oyama Yasuhiro
Published: January 2021

This study explored methodologies enabling us to hear the “non‐narrative” voices of participants in narrative research. Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with seven Japanese workers with recurring sick leave, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis (TA) and dialogical narrative analysis (DNA). In narrators' apparently chaotic and fragmented statements, TA identified three divided self‐images that remained disconnected: image of present self with a sense of setbacks, image of past self, and image of ideal self. As the last two self‐images ceaselessly negate the first, these workers had lost a sense of autonomy and self‐confidence. On the other hand, DNA described their desperate endeavors to organize their sick leave experiences by appealing to the typology of the illness narrative; however, this effort remained a failure. Through two qualitative analyses that suspended the premise that each narrative enables the narrator's construction of self, we were able to understand the real status of participants who could not narrate their experiences. The ethical obligation of researchers to respect the “unfinalizability” of narrative and remain open to continuous dialogue is discussed.
Obesogenic home food availability, diet, and BMI in Pakistani and White toddlers
Authors: LeCroy Madison N. , Bryant Maria , Albrecht Sandra S. , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria , Ward Dianne S. , Cai Jianwen , Stevens June
Published: January 2021

Individuals of South Asian ethnicity have an increased risk for obesity and related diseases. Foods available in the home during the first 1000 days (conception to 24 months old) are an important determinant of diet, yet no study has examined the association of early‐life home food availability (HFA) with later diet and obesity risk in South Asian households. We examined whether obesogenic HFA at 18 months of age is associated with dietary intake and body mass index (BMI) at 36 months of age in low‐income Pakistani and White households in the United Kingdom. In this prospective birth cohort study (Born in Bradford 1000), follow‐up assessments occurred at 18 (n = 1032) and 36 (n = 986) months of age. Variety and quantity of snack foods and sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) in the home and consumed were measured using the HFA Inventory Checklist and food frequency questionnaires, respectively. BMI was calculated using measured length/height and weight. Multinomial logistic regression models examined associations between HFA and tertiles of dietary intake, and multivariable linear regression models assessed associations between HFA and BMI. Pakistani households had a greater variety and quantity of snack foods and SSBs available compared with White households. Variety and quantity of snack foods and SSBs in the home at 18 months were positively associated with children's intake of these items at 36 months, but associations between HFA and BMI were null. Reducing obesogenic HFA during the first 1000 days may promote the development of more healthful diets, though this may not be associated with lower obesity risk during toddlerhood.
Patients Undergoing Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty with Primary Hypercoagulable States
Authors: Pan Xin , Shi Zhe , Shi Zhan‐jun , Yang Zhang , Lin Ze‐ming , Wu Xuan‐ping , Wang Jian
Published: January 2021

Objective

To analyze perioperative complications, resource consumption, and inpatient mortality of patients who receive total joint arthroplasty (TJA) with a concomitant diagnosis of a primary hypercoagulable state (PHS). The following questions were posed in the present paper. First, do patients undergoing TJA with PHS have increased risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI)? Second, what other in‐hospital complications are more likely among PHS patients undergoing TJA? Third, do TJA patients with PHS usually consume greater in‐hospital resources? Fourth, do PHS patients suffer higher mortality rates compared to non‐PHS patients? Finally, have PHS patients received proper anticoagulant management in past arthroplasties?

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database for the years between 2003 and 2014 was searched to identify patients undergoing primary TJA. Patients with PHS were identified with the ICD‐9‐CM code 289.81. The χ2‐test, the Pearson test, and adjusted multivariate regression analysis were performed to evaluate the difference and odds ratios between the positive and negative diagnosis groups.

Results

From 2003 to 2014, a total of 2,044,356 patients were identified in the NIS as undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in the United States. A total of 4664 patients (0.2%) were identified as having PHS. Compared with the non‐PHS group, TJA patients with PHS had a higher risk of DVT (THA: odds ratio [OR] = 8.343, 95% CI: 5.362–12.982, P < 0.001; TKA: OR = 4.712, 95% CI: 3.560–6.238, P < 0.001) but did not have increased risk of PE (THA: OR = 1.306, 95% CI: 0.48–3.555, P = 0.602; TKA: OR = 1.143, 95% CI: 0.687–1.903), and only PHS patients in the THA group had higher risks of inpatient mortality (OR = 3.184, 95% CI: 1.348–7.522, P = 0.008) and periprosthetic joint infection (OR = 3.343, 95% CI: 1.084–10.879, P = 0.036). In addition, PHS patients had extended length of stay, higher total costs, and increased risks of certain other complications, such as peripheral vascular disease, hemorrhage, and thrombophlebitis.

Conclusion

In the present study, PHS patients had higher risks of DVT, greater in‐hospital resource consumption, and certain other perioperative complications. However, PHS was not associated with increased risk of PE in TJA patients in the United States between 2003 and 2014. While potential hazards of PHS have already been recognized, the present study revealed additional concerns and demonstrated that further improvements in the perioperative management of patients with hereditary hypercoagulable disorders are essential.
Successful kidney transplantation in a patient with neonatal‐onset ILNEB
Authors: Okamoto Takayuki , Nakamura Akie , Hayashi Asako , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Ogawa Yayoi , Natsuga Ken , Yanagi Kumiko , Hotta Kiyohiko
Published: January 2021

Background

ILNEB constitute an autosomal recessive disorder caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous mutation of the gene for the ITGA3. To date, 8 ILNEB patients have been reported, but all 6 neonatal‐onset ILNEB patients suffered early death within 2 years. The most common cause of death among previously reported ILNEB patients was exacerbation of the respiratory condition.

Methods

In this study, we describe a case of ILNEB with neonatal onset in a female patient and the genetic and histopathological testing performed.

Results

Our patient had a compound heterozygous mutation in ITGA3. Compared to previously reported patients, this patient exhibited milder clinical and histopathological characteristics. After experiencing a life‐threatening respiratory infection at 8 months old, the patient started periodic subcutaneous immunoglobulin treatment once every 1‐2 weeks for nephrotic‐range proteinuria‐induced secondary hypogammaglobulinemia. At the age of 3 years, proteinuria gradually increased with severe edema despite strict internal management. Therefore, our patient underwent unilateral nephrectomy and insertion of a peritoneal dialysis catheter followed by another unilateral nephrectomy. One month later, she underwent an ABO‐compatible living‐donor kidney transplantation at the age of 4 years.

Conclusions

Our patient is a neonatal‐onset ILNEB patient who survived for more than 2 years and underwent successful kidney transplantation.
Academic Freedom Under Attack in Turkey: 2019 Presidential Address, International Society of Political Psychology
Authors: Redlawsk David P.
Published: January 2021

This paper addresses the ongoing challenges to academic freedom in Turkey, site of the 2011 ISPP meeting and a then‐burgeoning cadre of political psychologists working to build the discipline in Turkey. In January 2016, the Academics for Peace signed a petition challenging the government's policies towards the Kurds, following which the government began to purge both signatories and other academics. The purge gained traction after the July 2016 attempted coup, which the government put down. Academics and others were dismissed by decree (KHK) and barred from working in any occupation. This paper, a revised version of the 2019 ISPP Presidential Address, discusses the scope of the attack on academic freedom in Turkey and reports on a survey of both dismissed and nondismissed academics in Turkey to discuss the implications of being unexpectedly torn from a position that is as much a calling as it is a job.
Validation of the Short‐Form Survivor Unmet Needs Survey in older patients with myeloma
Authors: Pereira Maria da Graça , Pereira Marta , Vilaça Margarida , Ferreira Gabriela , Faria Sara , Monteiro Sara , Bacalhau Rosário
Published: January 2021

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) affects mainly the older population and is the second most prevalent haematologic cancer. MM patients' unmet needs are diverse, arise at different stages, and are associated with greater psychological distress. This study examined the psychometric properties of the Short‐Form Survivor Unmet Needs Survey (SF‐SUNS) in Portuguese MM patients.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 213 MM patients. The internal consistency of the scale was analyzed with Cronbach's α. Principal component analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to assess construct validity. Convergent validity was examined by using correlations with quality of life, satisfaction with social support, and psychological morbidity. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore the contribution of sociodemographic and clinical variables to unmet needs.

Results

The Portuguese SF‐SUNS's factor structure follows the original's structure, although it includes fewer items. For each domain, Cronbach's α was ≤0.70, the minimum acceptable criterion. For construct validity, only unmet relationship and emotional needs had significant correlations (r ≥ 0.40)—specifically negative associations with quality of life and social support and positive associations with psychological morbidity. Regarding patient variables and SF‐SUNS results, only cancer stage contributed significantly to unmet information needs, with patients at stage I reporting more needs than patients at stage III.

Conclusions

The SF‐SUNS represents a valid and reliable tool to assess unmet needs among Portuguese MM patients. It may be useful in designing and monitoring interventions to improve well‐being in cancer survivors.
Development of a Metric Concept that Differentiates Between Normal and Abnormal Operational Aviation Data
Authors: Stogsdill Matthew , Baranzini Daniele , Ulfvengren Pernilla
Published: January 2021

There is a strong and growing interest in using the large amount of high‐quality operational data available within an airline. One reason for this is the push by regulators to use data to demonstrate safety performance by monitoring the outputs of Safety Performance Indicators relative to targeted goals. However, the current exceedance‐based approaches alone do not provide sufficient operational risk information to support managers and operators making proximate real‐time data‐driven decisions. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a set of metrics which can complement the current exceedance‐based methods. The approach was to develop two construct variables that were designed with the aim to: (1) create an aggregate construct variable that can differentiate between normal and abnormal landings (row_mean); and (2) determine if temporal sequence patterns can be detected within the data set that can differentiate between the two landing groups (row_sequence). To assess the differentiation ability of the aggregate constructs, a set of both statistical and visual tests were run in order to detect quantitative and qualitative differences between the data series representing two landing groups prior to touchdown. The result, verified with a time series k‐means cluster analysis, show that the composite constructs seem to differentiate normal and abnormal landings by capturing time‐varying importance of individual variables in the final 300 seconds before touchdown. Together the approaches discussed in this article present an interesting and complementary way forward that should be further pursued.
Spillovers in global production networks
Authors: Frohm Erik , Gunnella Vanessa
Published: January 2021

This paper studies the role of global input–output linkages in transmitting economic disturbances in the international economy. Our empirical results find that these links are both statistically significant and of economic importance for generating spillovers. We also provide evidence that it is not the inter‐linkages per se that matter for the international transmission but rather the presence of global hub sectors that are either large suppliers or purchasers of other sectors' inputs. When the links between these sectors and the rest of the global value chain are severed, the spillovers diminish strongly and eventually become statistically insignificant. This highlights the importance of the structure of the production network for enabling spillovers and outlines the prominent role played by hub sectors in the global economy.
Development of a shear device for precise simple shear measurements of rubber mats
Authors: Kanzenbach Lars , Ihlemann Jörn
Published: January 2021

This contribution deals with the development of a new shear specimen, which allows precise simple shear measurements for large shear values. The main idea is that the shear load for the rubber mat is applied via steel pins. A form fit connection has the advantage that for the load application, no clamping force or high friction coefficient is required. In addition, the disadvantages resulting from vulcanisation or bonding, for example, shrinkage, are avoided. This offers the big advantage that homogeneous ageing tests can be performed, and also fibre‐reinforced materials can be tested. In order to show the potential of the new pin design, simulation results are compared to each other, and also a first experimental implementation is conducted. The new shear specimen can be used for phenomenological investigations of rubber properties, like Payne effect, Mullins effect, anisotropy, permanent set, softening, recovery, creep and relaxation behaviour.
A modular graph transformation rule set for IFC‐to‐CityGML conversion
Authors: Tauscher Helga , Lim Joie , Stouffs Rudi
Published: January 2021

Conversion of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) building models into CityGML city models is one of the operational scenarios for BIM–GIS integration, with a variety of applications producing and consuming data on either side. Given the in‐depth cross‐domain knowledge required to specify such conversions, the heterogeneity of the IFC input data and the use cases for the resulting CityGML, flexible and configurable solutions are needed that make conversion details accessible to domain specialists. Graph transformation as a conversion method fulfils these requirements. We propose to extend the modularity given by single transformation rules at a more coarse‐grained level and identify four layers with modules of associated rules. We describe a self‐contained set of rules across these modules and demonstrate its application to a range of building models.
Bacterial contamination of blood products in Africa
Authors: Ahmad Yembur , Heroes Anne‐Sophie , Hume Heather A. , Farouk Mohammed , Owusu‐Ofori Alex , Gehrie Eric A. , Goel Ruchika , Ness Paul M. , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Bloch Evan M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Bacterial contamination of blood components (notably platelets) remains a leading infectious risk to the blood supply. There has been extensive research in high‐income countries to characterize the risk of bacterial contamination along with adoption of strategies to mitigate that risk. By contrast, related data in Africa are lacking.

Study Design and Methods

An electronic survey was distributed to members of African Society of Blood Transfusion to assess existing or planned measures at African blood centers and hospitals to mitigate bacterial contamination of blood products. A literature review of studies pertaining to related transfusion‐associated risk in Africa was conducted to complement the findings.

Results

Forty‐five responses were received, representing 16 African countries. All respondents were urban, either in blood centers (n = 36) or hospital‐based transfusion services (n = 9). Reported measures included skin disinfection (n = 41 [91.1%]); diversion pouches (n = 14 [31.1%]); bacterial culture (n = 9 [20%]); pathogen reduction (PR) (n = 3 [6.7%]); and point‐of‐release testing (PoRT) (n = 2 [4.4%]). Measures being considered for implementation included: skin disinfection (n = 2 [4.4%]); diversion pouches (n = 2 [4.4%]); bacterial culture n = 14 (31.1%); PR (n = 11 [24.4%]); and PoRT (n = 4 [8.9%]). Of the 38 respondents who reported collection of platelets, 14 (36.8%) and 8 (21.1%) reported using diversion pouches and bacterial culture, respectively. The literature review identified 36 studies on the epidemiology of bacterial contamination and septic transfusion reactions in Africa; rates of contamination ranged from 0% to 17.9%.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that prevention of bacterial contamination of blood components and transfusion‐associated sepsis in Africa remains neglected. Regional preventive measures have not been widely adopted.
The effect of restrictive measures on cross‐border investment in the European Union
Authors: Gregori Wildmer Daniel , Nardo Michela
Published: January 2021

This study sheds light on the effect of restrictive policies, such as screening procedures, on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) flows into EU Member States in the period 2011–18. By implementing an augmented gravity model, we show that different restrictive measures affect cross‐border investments unevenly. The presence of formal screening procedures per se does not negatively affect cross‐border investments on average. The exception is M&As flows from tax havens that are negatively affected by the presence of screening procedures in the target country. Other restrictive policies such as licensing requirements, quantitative limitations, restrictions to the market access and operation of foreign companies limit M&A flows. This is particularly relevant in manufacturing and nonfinancial services where M&A flows are negatively influenced by restrictions on foreign personnel being employed in key positions, and restrictions on the establishment of branches, land acquisition or profit and capital repatriations.
Immunopathogenesis of the feline atopic syndrome
Authors: Halliwell Richard , Banovic Frane , Mueller Ralf S. , Olivry Thierry
Published: January 2021

Contexte

Les maladies félines supposées d’origine allergique avec des phénotypes cliniques semblables, peuvent avoir de nombreuses pathogénies différentes sous jacentes. Le phénotype clinque, l’étiologie précise et l’immunopathogénie sous jacente doivent tous être considérés si des avancées veulent être faites dans ces domaines négligés de la dermatologie.

Objectifs

Décrire le statut de recherche de l’immunopathogénie des maladies qui tombent dans le spectre du syndrome cutané atopique félin (FASS), résumer les conclusions, identifier les limites et recommander de futures directions de recherche.

Méthodes

Une étude bibliographique a été réalisée. Les forces et la validité des données et des contributions à nos connaissances actuelles sur l’immunopathogénie ont été analysées. Les dermatoses présumées d’origine allergique et l’asthme, ont été évalués séparément, ainsi que le rôle des anticorps, cellules et cytokines.

Résultats

La qualité des recherches était variée et ses impacts étaient souvent limités par un défaut d’utilisation de critères stricts de sélection des cas. Ceci reflète les difficultés des patrons de réaction cutanée associée à un grand nombre d’étiologies. La recherche sur l’asthme félin a été freinée par les difficultés d’explorer le matériel clinque et la plupart des informations utiles était dérivées de modèles expérimentaux.

Conclusions et importance Clinique

La revue des preuves supporte le rôle de l’immunoglobuline (Ig)E dans la pathogénie de l’asthme et du FASS quoique pas fortement. L’inflammation notée dans le FASS et l’asthme est accompagnée d’éosinophiles et de lymphocytes, et ces données, ensemble avec l’expression de cytokines, suggèrent d’une dérégulation immunitaire des T‐helper type 2 de certains chats (mais pas tous).
Reactive oxygen species during heart regeneration in zebrafish: Lessons for future clinical therapies
Authors: Helston Olivia , Amaya Enrique
Published: January 2021

In humans, myocardial infarction (MI) is associated with irreversible damage to heart tissue, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality in patients. By comparison, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) is capable of repairing damaged and injured hearts by activating a full regenerative response. By studying model organisms that can regenerate loss heart tissue following injury, such as the zebrafish, a greater insight will be gained into the molecular pathways that can induce and sustain a regenerative response following injury. There is hope that such information may lead to new treatments or therapies aimed at stimulating a better regenerative response in humans that have suffered heart attacks. Recent findings in zebrafish have highlighted an important role for sustained elevated levels of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the promotion of a regenerative response. Given that elevated levels of H2O2 can be harmful, simply elevating ROS levels directly may not be easy or practical to translate clinically. An alternative approach would be to identify the critical downstream targets of ROS in the promotion of heart regeneration, and then target these clinically using drugs. One such family of potential downstream targets of ROS during heart regeneration are the family of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs), which are known to be exquisitely sensitive to redox regulation and whose inhibition have been linked to the promotion of heart regeneration in zebrafish. In this review, we present an overview of the zebrafish as a model organism for studying cardiac regeneration, including the molecular mechanisms by which cardiac regeneration occurs in response to injury. We then present recent findings linking elevated ROS levels to heart regeneration and their potential downstream targets, the PTPs, including protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and the dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) in the promotion of heart regeneration.
CORTE SUPREMA DE JUSTICIA. SALA CIVIL. LUIS ARMANDO TOLOSA VILLABONA, Magistrado Ponente. SC3273-2020. Radicación: 11001-31-03-013-2011-00079-01 (Aprobado en Sala virtual de once de junio de dos mil veinte) Bogotá, D. C., siete (7) de septiembre de dos mil veinte (2020)
Authors: Isaza Posse Maria Cristina
Published: January 2021

LOS HECHOS

 

Los hechos consignados en la sentencia son los siguientes:

QBE del Istmo Compañía de Reaseguros-Inc. y Seguros del Estado SA. celebraron contrato de reaseguro proporcional, tipo "cuota parte”, con un límite de $5.000'000.000. El valor del siniestro se pactó, para la primera en 75%, y respecto de la segunda, en 25%.

El objeto del contrato consistió en cobijar el riesgo de cumplimiento amparado por Seguros del Estado a la Bolsa Nacional Agropecuaria S.A. (BNA S.A.). “El seguro protegía a Inaves Fuenterrabia S.A. del riesgo de incumplimiento de obligaciones por la expedición de certificados avícolas de operaciones bursátiles.”

La afianzada, Inaves, desatendió los compromisos adquiridos. La asegurada beneficiaria, BNA S.A., formuló la correspondiente reclamación y se le remuneró la suma de $4.144.000.000, cancelada, en alícuota parte, entre la aseguradora y reaseguradora en los porcentajes arriba discriminados.

Seguros del Estado S.A. se subrogó en los derechos de la asegurada beneficiaria. En esa condición intervino en el proceso de reorganización empresarial y finiquito de Inaves donde su crédito se admitió con el sello de privilegiado "por tener origen en una operación bursátil'.

La aseguradora cedente, sin haber recibido a satisfacción el pago, a espaldas de la reaseguradora, mediante contrato de cesión, transfirió el crédito por $1.000.000.000 a Avícola Miluc SAS.

El precio de la transacción fue lesivo, pues la aseguradora cedente recibió del cesionario menos de la mitad del valor de la acreencia subrogada. La situación perjudicó el patrimonio de la reaseguradora, al impedirle percibir el 75% de su monto, máxime cuando esa cifra estaba reconocida per sé en el concurso y garantizada su pago con privilegio.

Seguros del Estado S.A. desconoció las prestaciones del reaseguro, al celebrar la cesión y renunciar al recobro del 100% de lo indemnizado por vía de la subrogación. De esa manera frustró a la demandante de obtener el reembolso de la parte que costeó.
La carga de establecer las exclusiones del contrato de seguro en la primera página de la póliza
Authors: Vásquez Vega Daniel
Published: January 2021

En el Estatuto Orgánico del Sistema Financiero (EOSF) y en otros instrumentos se establece que “las exclusiones deben figurar en la primera página de la póliza” “so pena de ineficacia de la estipulación respectiva”. En este artículo analizo qué debe entenderse por póliza, cuáles son las exclusiones que deben figurar en su primera página, y qué sucede con las que no cumplen este requisito. Para dar respuesta a estas preguntas reviso la Circular Básica Jurídica que desarrolla el EOSF, la doctrina sobre la contratación mediante condiciones negociales generales, y los antecedentes legislativos de las normas analizadas. Concluyo que la regla del EOSF está regulando las condiciones negociales generales o clausulado del contrato de seguro y que consecuentemente aplica únicamente a las exclusiones generales, pudiendo las partes acordar exclusiones particulares cuya eficacia no está condicionada a ninguna formalidad.
El contrato de seguro en la responsabilidad extracontractual de la administración pública: Estudio comparado con el derecho español
Authors: Palacio Vargas Ana María
Published: January 2021

El seguro de responsabilidad de la Administración Pública, tanto en España como en Colombia, es un contrato típico, es decir, reconocido legalmente. Este tipo de seguro se identifica en sus rasgos esenciales con el seguro de responsabilidad civil, por lo tanto, es un seguro de daños.

En el ordenamiento jurídico español, así como en el colombiano, el aludido contrato de seguro se rige por normas especiales, en atención a que el asegurado es un ente de derecho público. Se advierte que, en uno y otro ordenamiento, se comparten los elementos definitorios de la figurar bajo estudio, lo cual no genera sorpresa, debido a que ambos ordenamientos encuentran su fuente, al menos en la materia, en el derecho francés.
Axial Low-Velocity Impact of Sandwich Columns With Aluminum Face-Sheets and Hexagonal Honeycomb Core
Authors: Wang Mingshi , Chen Shangjun , Xiang Chunping , Qin Qinghua , Wang T. J.
Published: January 2021

The dynamic behavior of sandwich columns with aluminum face-sheets and hexagonal honeycomb core under axial low-velocity impact is investigated experimentally and theoretically. In the impact tests, two typical competing cases of deformation, i.e., core shear-curling (CS-Cu) and local denting-plastic hinge (LD-PH), were observed following the first-order or higher-order global buckling. The deformation process, permanent deformation, cushioning property, energy dissipation efficiency, and factors affecting the competition of CS-Cu and LD-PH were compared and discussed in detail. It is found that, if CS-Cu occurs instead of LD-PH, an axially impacted sandwich column may perform better in both cushioning and efficiently dissipating residual energy. The theoretical analysis is carried out by extending the existing quasi-static global buckling theory of sandwich columns. A good agreement between the oscillatory plateau on the measured force–time curve and the predicted critical plastic global buckling load is found for the strain rate-insensitive face-sheet material.
Five-Axis Machine Tool Volumetric and Geometric Error Reduction by Indirect Geometric Calibration and Lookup Tables
Authors: Esmaeili Sareh M. , Mayer J. R. R. , Sanders Mark P. , Dahlem J. Philipp , Xing Kanglin
Published: January 2021

Modern CNC machine tools provide lookup tables to enhance the machine tool’s precision but the generation of table entries can be a demanding task. In this paper, the coefficients of the 25 cubic polynomial functions used to generate the LUTs entries for a five-axis machine tool are obtained by solving a linear system incorporating a Vandermonde expansion of the nominal control jacobian. The necessary volumetric errors within the working volume are predicted from the machine’s geometric errors estimated by the indirect error identification method based on the on-machine touch probing measurement of a reconfigurable uncalibrated master ball artifact (RUMBA). The proposed scheme is applied to a small Mitsubishi M730 CNC machine. Two different error models are used for modeling the erroneous machine tool, one estimating mainly inter-axis errors and the other including numerous intra-axis errors. The table-based compensation is validated through additional on-machine measurements. Experimental tests demonstrate a significant reduction in volumetric errors and in the effective machine error parameters. The LUTs reduce most of the dominant machine error parameters. It is concluded that although being effective in correcting some geometric errors, the generated LUTs cannot compensate for some axis misalignments such as EB(OX)A and EB(OX)Z. The root-mean-square of the translational volumetric errors is improved from 87.3, 75.4, and 71.5 µm down to 24.8, 18.8, and 22.1 µm in the X-, Y-, and Z-directions, respectively.
The chromosomal protein SMCHD1 regulates DNA methylation and the 2c-like state of embryonic stem cells by antagonizing TET proteins
Authors: Huang Zhijun , Yu Jiyoung , Cui Wei , Johnson Benjamin K. , Kim Kyunggon , Pfeifer Gerd P.
Published: January 2021

The chromosomal protein SMCHD1 regulates DNA methylation patterns by antagonizing 5-methylcytosine oxidation.
3D anisotropic structure of the Japan subduction zone
Authors: Wang Zewei , Zhao Dapeng
Published: January 2021

A high-resolution 3D model of anisotropic structure beneath Japan is determined using a tomographic method.
The characteristic response of domestic cats to plant iridoids allows them to gain chemical defense against mosquitoes
Authors: Uenoyama Reiko , Miyazaki Tamako , Hurst Jane L. , Beynon Robert J. , Adachi Masaatsu , Murooka Takanobu , Onoda Ibuki , Miyazawa Yu , Katayama Rieko , Yamashita Tetsuro , Kaneko Shuji , Nishikawa Toshio , Miyazaki Masao
Published: January 2021

Cats anoint themselves with plant metabolites that confer mosquito repellence.
Could COVID-19 eliminate the alarm clock?
Authors: Hurley Jennifer M.
Published: January 2021

Social restriction due to COVID-19 relieves social jet lag.
The benefits of memory growing granular
Authors: Stevens Jennifer Strafford
Published: January 2021

Brain imaging approaches show that the essential machinery for memory formation continues to develop into late childhood.
Variability of Hydroxy-Itraconazole in Relation to Itraconazole Bloodstream Concentrations
Authors: Wiederhold Nathan P. , Schwartz Ilan S. , Patterson Thomas F. , Thompson George R.
Published: January 2021

We analyzed the relationship between itraconazole (ITZ) and hydroxy-itraconazole (OH-ITZ) levels in 1,223 human samples. Overall, there was a statistically significant correlation between ITZ and OH-ITZ levels (Pearson’s
r
, 0.7838), and OH-ITZ levels were generally higher than ITZ levels (median OH-ITZ:ITZ ratio, 1.73; range, 0.13 to 8.96).
Therapeutic Potential of Fosmanogepix (APX001) for Intra-abdominal Candidiasis: from Lesion Penetration to Efficacy in a Mouse Model
Authors: Lee Annie , Wang Ning , Carter Claire L. , Zimmerman Matthew , Dartois Véronique , Shaw Karen Joy , Perlin David S. , Zhao Yanan
Published: January 2021

Intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC) is one of the most common yet underappreciated forms of invasive candidiasis. IAC is difficult to treat, and therapeutic failure and drug-resistant breakthrough infections are common in some institutions despite the use of echinocandins as first-line agents.
Locus of Heat Resistance (LHR) in Meat-Borne Escherichia coli: Screening and Genetic Characterization
Authors: Guragain Manita , Brichta-Harhay Dayna M. , Bono James L. , Bosilevac Joseph M.
Published: January 2021

Currently, a “multiple-hurdle” approach based on a combination of different antimicrobial interventions, including heat, is being utilized during meat processing to control the burden of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria. Our recent study suggests that U.S. beef cattle harbor
Escherichia coli
that possess the locus of heat resistance (LHR).
Peptidoglycan: Structure, Synthesis, and Regulation
Authors: Garde Shambhavi , Chodisetti Pavan Kumar , Reddy Manjula
Published: January 2021

Peptidoglycan is a defining feature of the bacterial cell wall. Initially identified as a target of the revolutionary beta-lactam antibiotics, peptidoglycan has become a subject of much interest for its biology, its potential for the discovery of novel antibiotic targets, and its role in infection. Peptidoglycan is a large polymer that forms a mesh-like scaffold around the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. Peptidoglycan synthesis is vital at several stages of the bacterial cell cycle: for expansion of the scaffold during cell elongation and for formation of a septum during cell division. It is a complex multifactorial process that includes formation of monomeric precursors in the cytoplasm, their transport to the periplasm, and polymerization to form a functional peptidoglycan sacculus. These processes require spatio-temporal regulation for successful assembly of a robust sacculus to protect the cell from turgor and determine cell shape. A century of research has uncovered the fundamentals of peptidoglycan biology, and recent studies employing advanced technologies have shed new light on the molecular interactions that govern peptidoglycan synthesis. Here, we describe the peptidoglycan structure, synthesis, and regulation in rod-shaped bacteria, particularly
Escherichia coli
, with a few examples from
Salmonella
and other diverse organisms. We focus on the pathway of peptidoglycan sacculus elongation, with special emphasis on discoveries of the past decade that have shaped our understanding of peptidoglycan biology.
Dual Control of Flagellar Synthesis and Exopolysaccharide Production by FlbD-FliX Class II Regulatory Proteins in Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens
Authors: Dardis Carolina , Quelas J. Ignacio , Mengucci Florencia , Althabegoiti M. Julia , Lodeiro Aníbal R. , Mongiardini Elías J.
Published: January 2021

Most environmental bacteria switch between two free-living states: planktonic, in which individual cells swim propelled by flagella, and sessile, in which bacteria form biofilms. Apart from being essential for locomotion, the flagellum has accessory functions during biofilm formation.