bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequential Transmission of Salmonella in the Slaughtering Process of Chicken in Korea
Authors: Lee Hye‐Jin , Youn So‐Youn , Jeong Ok‐Mi , Kim Jin‐Hyun , Kim Dong‐Wan , Jeong Ji‐Yeon , Kwon Yong‐Kuk , Kang Min‐Su
Published: March 2019

Salmonella is one of the most common foodborne pathogens worldwide. Salmonella infections in humans are mainly associated with consumption of poultry products contaminated with this foodborne pathogen. Therefore, strict sanitary measures are necessary to control Salmonella contamination during the slaughtering process of poultry. The objective of this study was to determine the occurrence and transmission of Salmonella at a series of steps in the slaughtering process of chicken. A total of 601 samples were collected from a series of slaughtering steps (10 sampling sites) of 26 chicken slaughterhouses throughout Korea. Salmonella was isolated from samples and its distribution was analyzed along the slaughtering process. Isolates from each sampling site were tested for susceptibility to 15 antibiotics by the broth microdilution method. They were also genotypically characterized by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Salmonela was isolated from 168 out of 601 samples. Sixteen serotypes were identified while six isolates were untypable. Salmonella enterica serovars Montevideo (n = 29) and Virchow (n = 27) were the most common serotypes out of 119 nonredundant isolates. Relatively high contamination rates of Salmonella were found in shackles (75.0%), feathers near plucking machine (68.5%), and feces from crates (44.0%). Twenty‐three antibiotic resistance patterns were recognized and 40 (33.6%) isolates were resistant to five or more antibiotics. The same serotypes of Salmonella were distributed along the slaughtering process of each Salmonella‐positive slaughterhouse. Most of those isolates belonging to the same serotype had identical or closely related PFGE profiles. They also shared common antibiotic resistance patterns. Overall findings of this study indicated that Salmonella were sequentially transmitted through the chicken slaughtering process.

Practical Application

This study provides useful information on the distribution and transmission of Salmonella serotypes through the chicken slaughtering process. Overall findings indicated the need for routine microbiological monitoring along the slaughtering process. This study also showed that on‐farm control of Salmonella is needed to obtain Salmonella‐free chicken carcasses.
Glycoprotein 96 polymorphisms are associated with the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus: A case‐control study
Authors: Lee Jeong Seok , Im Churl Hyun , Lee Sang Jin , Choi Ji Yong , Han Jung Min , Kim Sunghoon , Kim Dong Jo , Park Taesung , Lee Eun Young , Song Yeong Wook
Published: March 2019

Aim

To investigate the clinical implications of a genetic polymorphism in glycoprotein 96 (GP96), by analyzing the association between the genotype and haplotype of GP96 with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Method

We analyzed cell‐surface expression of GP96 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and serum titer of anti‐GP96 antibody of SLE patients. Single nucleotide polymorphisms and deletion mutants of GP96 were detected by two‐dimensional gene scanning (TDGS). Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined for each genotype and haplotype through the chi‐square test.

Results

In total, 216 Korean SLE patients and 215 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were enrolled. In SLE patients, as opposed to healthy controls, cell‐surface expression of GP96 among human leukocyte antigen‐DR+ PBMCs (76.4% vs 45.5%, respectively, P < 0.001) and serum anti‐GP96 antibody titers (0.98 vs 0.50, respectively, P = 0.012) increased. TDGS revealed six polymorphic sites in GP96, two of which were significantly associated with SLE (exon 1, g.‐7C>G, odds ratio [OR] 1.78, 95% CI 1.16‐2.75, P = 0.009; exon 17, g.17009_17011del, OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.18‐2.64, P = 0.006). Two haplotypes (121111, 211212) were strongly associated with SLE (OR 8.92, 95% CI 1.10‐72.6, P = 0.041; OR 3.03, 95% CI 1.22‐7.50, P = 0.017, respectively) and specific clinical manifestations (discoid rash, arthritis, renal disorder, neurologic disorder, and hematologic disorder). Haplotype‐based analysis revealed a stronger association between GP96 and SLE than did genotype‐based analysis.

Conclusion

The two polymorphisms, each in exons 1 and 17 of GP96 are potential genetic risk factors of SLE. Two haplotypes 121111 and 211212 are related to not only SLE but also specific clinical manifestations.
Narrating China's belt and road initiative
Authors: Zeng Jinghan
Published: March 2019

This article studies the formation process of China's belt and road initiative (BRI) – the most important Chinese foreign policy initiative under Xi Jinping. It argues that the BRI was put forward as a broad policy idea that was subsequently developed with relatively concrete content. During this process, the shifting international landscapes have gradually driven the BRI from a periphery strategy into a global initiative. By examining the case of Jiangsu Province, this article also shows how Chinese local governments have actively deployed their preferred narratives to influence and (re‐)interpret the BRI guidelines of the central government in order to advance their own interests. As a result, this produces a variety of competing, ambiguous and contradictory policy narratives of the BRI within China, which undermines the Chinese central government's monopoly on the BRI narratives. This leaves the BRI as a very vague and broad policy slogan that is subject to change and open to interpretation. In this regard, the existing analyses – that consider the BRI as Beijing's masterplan to achieve its geopolitical goals – pay insufficient attention to the BRI's domestic contestation and overstate the BRI's geopolitical implications.
Critical Review, Development, and Testing of a Taxonomy for Adverse Events and Near Misses in the Emergency Department
Authors: Griffey Richard T. , Schneider Ryan M. , Todorov Alexandre A. , Yaeger Lauren , Sharp Brian R. , Vrablik Marie C. , Aaronson Emily L. , Sammer Christine , Nelson Antoinette , Manley Holly , Dalton Patricia , Adler Lee
Published: March 2019

Objectives

An adverse event (AE) is a physical harm experienced by a patient due to health care, requiring intervention. Describing and categorizing AEs is important for quality and safety assessment and identifying areas for improvement. Safety science suggests that improvement efforts should focus on preventing and mitigating harm rather than on error, which is commonplace but infrequently leads to AEs. Most taxonomies fail to describe harm experienced by patients (e.g., hypoxia, hemorrhage, anaphylaxis), focusing instead on errors, and use categorizations that are too broad to be useful (e.g., “communication error”). We set out to create a patient‐centered, emergency department (ED)‐specific framework for describing AEs and near misses to advance quality and safety in the acute care setting.

Methods

We performed a critical review of existing taxonomies of harm, evaluating their applicability to the ED. We identified and adopted a classification framework and developed a taxonomy using an iterative process categorizing approximately 600 previously identified AEs and near misses. We reviewed this taxonomy with collaborators at four medical centers, receiving feedback and providing clarification. We then disseminated a set of representative scenarios for these safety experts to categorize independently using the taxonomy. We calculated interrater reliability and performance compared to our criterion standard.

Results

Our search identified candidate taxonomies for detailed review. We selected the Adventist Health Systems AE taxonomy and modified this for use in the ED, adopting a framework of categories, subcategories, and up to three modifiers to further describe events. On testing, overall reviewer agreement with the criterion standard was 92% at the category level and 88% at the subcategory level. Three of the four raters concurred in 55 of 59 scenarios (93%) and all four concurred in 46 of 59 scenarios (78%). At the subcategory level, there was complete agreement in 40 of 59 (68%) scenarios and majority agreement in 55 of 59 instances (93%). Performance of individual raters ranged from very good (88%, 52/59) to near perfect (98%, 58/59) at the main category level.

Conclusions

We developed a taxonomy of AEs and near misses for the ED, modified from an existing framework. Testing of the tool with minimal training yielded high performance and good inter‐rater reliability. This taxonomy can be adapted and modified by EDs seeking to enhance their quality and safety reviews and characterize harm occurring in their EDs for quality improvement purposes.
Targeted Rhesus immunoglobulin for RhD‐negative women undergoing an induced abortion: A clinical pilot study
Authors: Jensen Mia P. S. , Damkjær Merete B. , Clausen Frederik B. , Ali Haivin A. , Hare Kristine J. , Dziegiel Morten H. , Jørgensen Finn S.
Published: March 2019

Introduction

The aim of this clinical pilot study was to examine the accuracy of noninvasive fetal RHD genotyping in early pregnancy (8+0 to 11+6 weeks) and to clarify whether targeted administration of Rhesus immunoglobulin (RhIg) is possible for women undergoing an induced abortion such that unnecessary injections can be avoided. The study examines the correlation between gestational age and the amount of cell‐free fetal DNA in maternal plasma, the fetal fraction of DNA and whether transportation time or body mass index affects these parameters.

Material and methods

Fifty‐two RhD‐negative women undergoing a surgically induced abortion were included. A maternal blood sample was collected prior to the abortion and a tissue sample was collected from the placental part of the abortion material after the intervention. Fetal RhD type was determined by PCR analysis of cell‐free fetal DNA extracted from maternal plasma and on DNA from the tissue sample, with the latter providing a reference standard. Copies of RHD/mL were determined on RHD‐positive samples and the fetal fraction of DNA was calculated.

Results

We demonstrated complete concordance between results from plasma and tissue, with 31 RhD‐positive and 21 RhD‐negative samples, corresponding to 40% being RhD‐negative, specificity 100% [95% confidence interval (CI) 88.8‐100] and sensitivity 100% (95% CI 83.9‐100). We found no significant correlation between gestational age and the amount or the fraction of cell‐free fetal DNA in maternal plasma, nor did we find that transportation time or BMI significantly affected these factors in this setup.

Conclusions

Fetal RHD genotyping can be accurately performed from the 8th week of gestation and unnecessary injections of RhIg can be avoided for women undergoing an induced abortion. A larger study is needed to determine a more accurate sensitivity for the analysis early in pregnancy.
Abandonment of traditional saltworks facilitates degradation of halophytic plant communities and Carpobrotus edulis invasion
Authors: Chefaoui Rosa M. , Chozas Sergio
Published: March 2019

Aims

In Mediterranean countries, traditional salt exploitation has been practiced over centuries. However, there is a progressive reduction of active saltworks, causing changes in the adjacent halophytic communities and, ultimately, the invasion by opportunistic plant species. Assessing the impact of land use change is key to understanding and protecting these fragile wetland ecosystems. Here, we explore how the abandonment of saltworks is impacting plant communities. We assess if the reduction in saltworks activity alters the composition of protected halophytic communities and favours the invasion by Carpobrotus edulis, an invasive species in many coastal regions throughout the world.

Location

The Natural Park of Ria Formosa (Algarve, Portugal).

Methods

We studied variations in the structure of halophytic communities affected to different degrees by C. edulis over three saltworks land use regimes in the Ria Formosa. Plant cover and soil salinity were estimated in a total of 60 transects pertaining to two saltworks complexes harbouring different land use and hydrologic regimes. We performed a non‐metric multidimensional scaling ordination of saltworks based on plant cover and identified the indicator species of each saltworks class.

Results

We found that plant communities significantly varied among types of saltworks according to the pattern of soil salinity and hydrologic regime. We identified C. edulis as the main indicator species of the abandoned saltworks’ communities, characterized by less saline soils and being desiccated in summer.

Conclusions

Land‐use change caused by the abandonment of salinas facilitated the transition of halophytic into psammophytic communities and the invasiveness of C. edulis. The maintenance of traditional saltworks activities is vital for the preservation of this fragile wetland ecosystem.
Propofol inhibits pancreatic cancer proliferation and metastasis by up‐regulating miR‐328 and down‐regulating ADAM8
Authors: Yu Xiangdi , Gao Yutong , Zhang Fangxiang
Published: March 2019

Propofol is commonly used for anaesthesia during surgery, and accumulating evidence has demonstrated that propofol is associated with tumour suppression. For example, propofol down‐regulates the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor to inhibit pancreatic cancer malignancy. However, deeper insights into its underlying mechanism are needed. In this study, we treated pancreatic cell lines Panc1 and Bxpc3 with or without propofol. Cell proliferation, migration and invasion were evaluated using 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide and transwell assays. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure RNA expression levels. Luciferase assay was performed to determine the transcriptional activity of microRNAs (miRNAs). We found that propofol significantly reduced the proliferation, migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells compared to untreated cells. By testing the changes in miRNAs after propofol treatment, propofol was shown to strikingly enhance the expression of miR‐328. Luciferase assays demonstrated that propofol repressed the transcriptional activity of miR‐328, while a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 8 (ADAM8) was a direct target of miR‐328. Knockdown of miR‐328 or ADAM8 led to significantly decreased cell growth and viability. Our results implicate that propofol inhibits pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis by enhancing miR‐328 which targets ADAM8.
A Hybrid Omnibus Test for Generalized Semiparametric Single-Index Models With High-Dimensional Covariate Sets
Authors: Xu Yangyi , Kim Inyoung , Carroll Raymond J.
Published: March 2019

Numerous statistical methods have been developed for analyzing high-dimensional data. These methods often focus on variable selection approaches but are limited for the purpose of testing with high-dimensional data. They are often required to have explicit-likelihood functions. In this article, we propose a “hybrid omnibus test” for high-dicmensional data testing purpose with much weaker requirements. Our hybrid omnibus test is developed under a semiparametric framework where a likelihood function is no longer necessary. Our test is a version of a frequentist-Bayesian hybrid score-type test for a generalized partially linear single-index model, which has a link function being a function of a set of variables through a generalized partially linear single index. We propose an efficient score based on estimating equations, define local tests, and then construct our hybrid omnibus test using local tests. We compare our approach with an empirical-likelihood ratio test and Bayesian inference based on Bayes factors, using simulation studies. Our simulation results suggest that our approach outperforms the others, in terms of type I error, power, and computational cost in both the low- and high-dimensional cases. The advantage of our approach is demonstrated by applying it to genetic pathway data for type II diabetes mellitus.
Recurrence, eruptions, and a transnational turn: Three decades of strained relations between migrants to Norway and the Child Welfare Services
Authors: Vassenden Anders , Vedøy Gunn
Published: March 2019

The relations between the Norwegian Child Welfare Services (CWS) and various migrant groups are notably strained. Numerous media accounts and a growing body of research reveal that many migrants to Norway fear the CWS. By combining quantitative and qualitative analyses of media accounts, this paper addresses the historical evolvement of such strained relations in Norway. Previous research has neglected this aspect. Findings show that migration issues related to the CWS have been topics of public debate in Norway for three decades, with foster care being a particularly intractable concern. With the onset of the decade beginning in 2010, however, matters have intensified and taken on transnational dimensions. In the discussion of our findings, we emphasize in particular how digital and social media have contributed to the recent changes.
Cemented vs screw‐retained zirconia‐based single implant reconstructions: A 3‐year prospective randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Kraus Riccardo D. , Epprecht Alyssa , Hämmerle Christoph H.F. , Sailer Irena , Thoma Daniel S.
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The objective of the present randomized clinical trial was to test whether or not the use of screw‐retained all ceramic implant‐borne reconstructions results in clinical, technical, and biologic outcomes similar to those obtained with cemented all ceramic reconstructions. The hypothesis was that there is no difference in clinical, technical, and biological parameters between the two types of retention.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐four patients randomly received 20 cemented reconstruction (CR) and 24 screw‐retained (SR) all ceramic single crowns on two‐piece dental implants with nonmatching implant‐abutment junctions. All patients were recalled after crown insertion, at 6 months, 1 year, as well as at 3 years. At these visits, biological and radiographic evaluations were performed. Technical outcomes were assessed using modified USPHS (United States Public Health Service) criteria. Data were statistically analyzed with Wilcoxon‐Mann‐Whitney, Wilcoxon and Fisher exact tests.

Results

During 3 years of follow‐up, eight patients (18.2%) lost the reconstruction due to technical (6 patients, 13.6%, 2 CR and 4 SR group) or biological complications (2 patients, 4.5%, only CR group). Thirty‐two subjects with 18 SR and 14 CR reconstructions attended the FU‐3Y, whereas four patients (9.1%, 2 SR, 2 CR) were not available (drop‐outs). Biological, technical, and radiographic outcomes did not differ significantly between the groups (P > 0.05). One implant (2.3%) was lost in the CR group. One more cemented crown (2.3%) had to be removed because of peri‐implant disease. Six patients (13.6%) lost the reconstructions due to a fracture of the zirconia abutment (4 SR, 2 CR). The mean marginal bone level at 3 years was −0.4 mm (−0.5; −0.3) in group SR and − 0.4 mm (−0.6; −0.3) group CR (P = 0.864).

Conclusions

At 3 years, CR and SR exhibited similar survival technical, biological and radiographic outcomes. The rate of technical complications was high in both groups.
A randomized, controlled, clinical study on a new titanium oxide abutment surface for improved healing and soft tissue health
Authors: Hall Jan , Neilands Jessica , Davies Julia R. , Ekestubbe Annika , Friberg Bertil
Published: March 2019

Background

A newly developed, anodized titanium oxide surface containing anatase has been reported to have antimicrobial properties that could reduce bacterial adherence to abutments.

Purpose

To investigate if abutments with the anodized surface improve healing and soft tissue health in a randomized controlled study.

Materials and Methods

Test abutments with a nanostructured anodized surface were compared with control machined titanium abutments. In total, 35 subjects each received a pair of test and control abutments. The primary endpoint was reduction of biofilm formation at test abutments at the 6‐week follow‐up. Secondary endpoints included several soft tissue assessments. qPCR for gene markers was used to indirectly evaluate healing and soft tissue health.

Results

No significant differences in biofilm formation were observed between test and control abutments, but soft tissue bleeding upon abutment removal was significantly lower for test abutments compared with control abutments (P = 0.006) at 6 weeks. Keratinized mucosa height was significantly greater at test abutments compared with control abutments at the 6‐week, 6‐month, and 2‐year follow‐ups. Significant gene expression differences indicated differences in healing and tissue remodeling.

Conclusions

Abutments with an anodized and nanostructured surface compared with a conventional, machined titanium surface had no significant effect on bacterial colonization and proteolytic activity but were associated with better soft tissue outcomes such as a lower bleeding index at abutment removal and consistently greater height of keratinized mucosa throughout the 2‐year follow‐up, suggesting improved surface‐dependent peri‐implant healing and soft tissue health.
Safety and efficacy of a novel anodized abutment on soft tissue healing in Yucatan mini‐pigs
Authors: Susin Cristiano , Finger Stadler Amanda , Fiorini Tiago , de Sousa Rabelo Mariana , Ramos Umberto D. , Schüpbach Peter
Published: March 2019

Background

It is well established that electrochemical anodization of implant surfaces contributes to osseointegration and long‐term implant survival. Few studies have investigated its effect on soft tissue healing.

Purpose

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel abutment surface prepared by electrochemical oxidation compared to commercially available machined titanium abutments.

Materials and Methods

Twelve 16‐19 months‐old, Yucatan mini‐pigs received three dental implants in each mandibular jaw quadrant. Each side was randomized to receive either an anodized or a machined titanium abutment. Titanium healing caps were placed on both abutments. Animals were euthanized at 6 and 13 weeks. Radiographic and histological analyses were performed.

Results

No significant differences were observed histologically between groups in regard to inflammation, epithelium length, mucosal height, bone‐to‐implant contact, or bone density for any time point. Radiographically, crestal bone level change from baseline to 6 weeks was significantly lower for anodized than machined abutments (P = 0.046); no significant differences were observed at 13 weeks (P = 0.12).

Conclusions

The novel anodized abutment showed a comparable effect on soft and hard tissue healing/remodeling and inflammation reaction to standard titanium abutments. Clinical studies should confirm these findings and explore the positive radiographic results observed at the early time point.
Cytological diagnosis of a rare case of α‐fetoprotein producing gastric‐type adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix
Authors: Toyoda Shinji , Uchiyama Tomoko , Morita Kohei , Ishida Eiwa , Sugiura Atsushi , Kita Tsunekazu , Ohbayashi Chiho
Published: March 2019

This is the first report of an alphafetoprotein (AFP)‐producing uterine cervical gastric‐type adenocarcinoma. The cytological features are described with conventional cytology and the diagnosis was confirmed by positive AFP staining.
Alien species richness is currently unbounded in all but the most urbanized bird communities
Authors: Tsang Toby P. N. , Dyer Ellie E. , Bonebrake Timothy C.
Published: March 2019

Urban areas suffer high pressure of introductions of alien species compared to other habitats due to intensive human activities. As trading globally continues to rise, more species will likely be introduced into urban areas. To determine whether this increase in introduction pressure will lead to increased alien species richness in urban areas, or whether other processes would act to impose an upper limit on species richness, we examined how the shape of the relationship between alien species richness and the number of introduced species over time (i.e. introduction pressure) varies along gradients of urbanization. We collected species composition data from urban bird surveys worldwide and used a global database of alien bird introductions to quantify how many species have been introduced over time at different sites. We found that urbanization gradually modified the shape of the studied relationship from linear to asymptotic. Only communities in extremely urbanized environments were associated with an asymptotic relationship, suggesting that alien bird richness has likely not reached its ecological limit in most urban areas. Our results show that urbanization can reduce the importance of introduction pressure in determining alien species richness. Additionally, the results predict that alien species richness will increase at finer spatial scales, especially if the introduced species can survive in urban areas outside of their native range.
Damming and seasonality as modulators of fish community structure in a small tributary
Authors: Nobile André Batista , Freitas‐Souza Diogo , Lima Felipe Pontieri , Queiroz Jamile , Bayona‐Perez Isabelle Leite , Carvalho Edmir Daniel , Ramos Igor Paiva
Published: March 2019

River damming alters the physical–chemical variables of water and often causes compartmentalisation of aquatic habitats. Seasonality can add complexity to the longitudinal compartmentalisation. The spatial and temporal effects of these two phenomena on the structure of ichthyofauna from a tributary under the influence of damming were evaluated, based on the following hypotheses: (1) transition habitats have the greatest species richness; (2) community similarity decreases with increasing distance between sites; (3) conservation of free‐flowing areas upstream reservoir contributes to the maintenance of migratory species. To evaluate the effects of these two phenomena, twelve monthly fish samples (September/12 to August/13) were performed with gillnets in three sample areas distributed longitudinally in the tributary. Limnological variables were measured in the same sample areas to confirm compartmentalisation. We observed three distinct limnological compartments (lotic, transition and lentic), with increase differentiation during the rainy season. This compartmentalisation influenced fish fauna where localised communities exhibited different compositions among the three sampled habitats. During the rainy season, these differences become pronounced, with transition habitat showing greater species richness than the others. More pronounced differences in species composition and structure in extremes sampling sites were also observed. Migratory fish presented higher proportion of fish composition in lotic habitat. In conclusion, damming and seasonality acted concomitantly as modulators of fish fauna in a tributary influenced by damming. However, compartmentalisation of habitats was the primary driver of ichthyofauna community structure with the rainy season increasing differences in community composition.
Professional functioning of young adults with congenital coagulation disorders in the Netherlands
Authors: Limperg Perrine F. , Maurice‐Stam Heleen , Haverman Lotte , Coppens Michiel , Kruip Marieke J. H. A. , Eikenboom Jeroen , Grootenhuis Martha A. , Peters Marjolein
Published: March 2019

Introduction and Aim

Suboptimal health‐related quality of life and lowered employment rates found in a previous study in young adults (YA) with congenital coagulation disorders (CCD) in the Netherlands underline the need for more insight into professional functioning of YA with CCD and into determinants of professional functioning.

Methods

Young adults (18‐30 years) with CCD participated in a cross‐sectional study. Professional functioning was assessed with the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire (WPAI). Potential determinants were assessed with the Course of Life Questionnaire (CoLQ), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Young Adult version (PedsQL_YA), Illness Cognition Questionnaire (ICQ) and Haemophilia Activities List (HAL). Logistic regression analyses were performed in the complete sample of YA with CCD, and in YA men with haemophilia separately, to examine determinants of WPAI outcomes.

Results

Ninety‐four YA (77 men; mean age 24.1 years, SD 3.5 and 17 women; mean age 24.5 years, SD 3.8) with CCD (74% haemophilia A/B) participated. 74.5% of YA were paid employed for on average 30 hours per week. Of these, more than a quarter reported work impairment. Older age and a non‐severe type of haemophilia (in the sample of YA men with haemophilia) were associated with successful (paid) employment. No variables were associated with professional functioning (expressed as Presenteeism and Overall work impairment) in patients with CCD or haemophilia.

Conclusion

Three‐quarters of YA with CCD were successful in finding paid employment. Though absenteeism was low, YA with paid employment needs attention as a considerable part experienced work impairment.
Impact of body mass index on short‐term and long‐term survival in prevalent hemodialysis patients
Authors: Ertilav Muhittin , Levin W. Nathan , Celtik Aygul , Kircelli Fatih , Stuard Stefano , Yuksel Kıvanc , Ok Ercan , Asci Gulay
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Numerous studies showed that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with better survival in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Most of them evaluated short‐term mortality. It has been suggested that presence of inflammation may be a key modifier of relationship between BMI and mortality in incident HD patients. We examined whether presence of inflammation modifies the association between BMI and mortality in both short‐term and long‐term follow‐up in a large group of prevalent HD patients.

Methods: A total of 3.252 HD patients from 41 HD centers were enrolled; the patients were divided into quartiles based on time‐averaged BMI (Q1 < 21.5, Q2 21.5 to <24.3, Q3 24.3 to <27.4, Q4 ≥ 27.4 kg/m2). Inflammation status was defined as present (inflamed) (C‐reactive protein (CRP) ≥1.0 mg/dL and/or serum albumin ≤3.5 g/dL) or absent (noninflamed).

Findings: During 7 years of follow‐up 1386 patients (42.6%) died. Compared to noninflamed patients, inflamed patients in the lowest BMI quartile showed 5‐fold increased risk for mortality in the short‐term (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.82–9.22, P < 0.001) and 3‐fold in the long‐term (95%CI 2.42–4.27, P < 0.001) compared to the highest BMI quartile. Whereas, inflamed patients in the highest BMI quartile experienced 2‐fold increased risk in short‐term (95%CI 1.17–3.74, P = 0.01) and 1.68‐fold increased risk in long‐term (95%CI 1.30–2.18, P < 0.001) than in noninflamed patients. The protective effect of BMI for overall mortality was present in all age groups, in both genders, in patient with and without diabetes. BMI was not a mortality predictor in patients with HD duration more than 76 months at baseline. The protective effect of BMI was observed in all albumin tertiles. In patients in the lowest CRP tertile, BMI was not associated with mortality.

Discussion: Higher BMI is associated with lower short‐term and long‐term mortality risk, especially in patients with inflammation in a prevalent HD population.
TO WRITE THE HISTORY OF EQUALITY
Authors: McMahon Darrin M.
Published: March 2019

This article discusses the history of equality and recent efforts to write that history in the context of a detailed discussion of Siep Stuurman's The Invention of Humanity: Equality and Cultural Difference in World History. It begins by pointing out the surprising paucity of writing on the history of equality, particularly its conceptual and intellectual history, despite that notion's centrality in modern political and philosophical discussion. It proceeds to examine recent efforts to make amends for that lack. What Pierre Rosanvallon has described as the contemporary “crisis of equality” gives urgency to these efforts, while also, it is suggested, providing an opportunity to more fully explore the contingencies and complexities of this beguiling notion. Stuurman's examination of the invention and deployment of “cross‐cultural equality”—the basic equality of all people living in the world, regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or race—is an important step in this exploration. But as Samuel Moyn has emphasized in his own recent intervention on the history of social rights in an unequal world, it is not, on its own, enough. Future efforts to write the history of equality must integrate the social and economic dimensions of the idea more fully in an effort to better understand our contemporary dilemma.
Towards a Theory of Pure Procedural Climate Justice
Authors: Brandstedt Eric , Brülde Bengt
Published: March 2019

A challenge for the theorising of climate justice is that even when the agents whose actions are supposed to be regulated are cooperative and act in good faith, they may still disagree about how the burdens and benefits of dealing with climate change should be distributed. This article is a contribution to the formulation of a useful role for normative theorising in light of this bounded nature of climate justice. We outline a theory of pure procedural climate justice; its content, function in relation to international climate diplomacy, and justification. The theory is ‘pure' in the sense that it does not rely on an independent criterion of what are just outcomes in negotiations of climate responsibilities. Rather, it specifies procedural fairness norms, such as transparency, reciprocity and participation, which make the process of negotiation fair independently of which account of substantive climate justice happens to be correct. Such procedural fairness norms are justified in part by being expressions of an ideal of a reasonable negotiator, an ideal which itself commands respect. They are also justified as means to an effective coordinated response to dangerous climate change in virtue of their capacity to create trust, predictability and accountability.
The effects of a bioresponse system on the joint attention behaviour of adults with visual and severe or profound intellectual disabilities and their affective mutuality with their caregivers
Authors: Frederiks Kyra , Sterkenburg Paula , Barakova Emilia , Feijs Loe
Published: March 2019

Background

The subtle communicative behaviour of individuals with visual and severe/profound intellectual disabilities hinders the success of their interaction with professional caregivers. The bioresponse system, a tool to raise caregivers' awareness of the client's communicative behaviour, may improve the client's joint attention behaviour and the dyad's affective mutuality.

Method

Four client–caregiver dyads participated in a randomized multiple baseline study with repeated baseline, intervention and follow‐up observations. The bioresponse system's effect was evaluated with measures of joint attention and affective mutuality.

Results

Two clients showed a significant difference on one or two joint attention subscales (including one significant decrease), and for all clients, at least one joint attention subscale revealed a positive trend. Positive trends in affective mutuality scores were observed in two dyads.

Conclusions

The results stress the importance of further research to the effects of using the bioresponse system's in daily care for persons with severe/profound intellectual disabilities.
Differential Gene Expression Supports a Resource‐Intensive, Defensive Role for Colony Production in the Bloom‐Forming Haptophyte, Phaeocystis globosa
Authors: Mars Brisbin Margaret , Mitarai Satoshi
Published: March 2019

Phaeocystis globosa forms dense, monospecific blooms in temperate, northern waters. Blooms are usually dominated by the colonial morphotype—nonflagellated cells embedded in a secreted mucilaginous mass. Colonial Phaeocystis blooms significantly affect food‐web structure and function and negatively impact fisheries and aquaculture, but factors regulating colony formation remain enigmatic. Destructive P. globosa blooms have been reported in tropical and subtropical regions more recently and warm‐water blooms could become more common with continued climate change and coastal eutrophication. We therefore assessed genetic pathways associated with colony formation by investigating differential gene expression between colonial and solitary cells of a warm‐water P. globosa strain. Our results illustrate a transcriptional shift in colonial cells with most of the differentially expressed genes downregulated, supporting a reallocation of resources associated with forming and maintaining colonies. Dimethylsulfide and acrylate production and pathogen interaction pathways were upregulated in colonial cells, suggesting a defensive role for producing colonies. We identify several protein kinase signaling pathways that may influence the transition between morphotypes, providing targets for future research into factors affecting colony formation. This study provides novel insights into genetic mechanisms involved in Phaeocystis colony formation and provides new evidence supporting a defensive role for Phaeocystis colonies.
A novel numerical approach for modeling the coagulation phenomenon in egg white
Authors: Pero Milad , Kiani Hossein , Askari Gholamreza
Published: March 2019

Coagulation is one of the most important phenomena in thermal processing of egg. In this study, along with experimental investigations, a coupled numerical model based on finite volume method was developed to simulate heat transfer, coagulation, and fluid flow during the heating process of liquid egg white. Egg white, filled in a copper cubic container, was heated in a water bath, and the temperature history and coagulated phase front were recorded during the process. The experiments and simulations were repeated for water and coagulated egg as model systems with no phase change and/or convective flow and the results were compared to that of fresh eggs. Results showed that the modeling procedure was successful in predicting the temperature profile and coagulated phase front in liquid egg white during conventional thermal processing and can be employed as a tool in optimization of the process in the industry.

Practical applications

By application of the proposed approach, egg processing industries can optimize the thermal process of intact egg. The goal of thermal processing of intact egg is achieving the maximum reduction in microbial load either on the surface or inside the egg. Therefore, by simulating the target process and incorporating the coagulation phenomenon into the process modeling, process conditions can be optimized in a way that maximum reduction in microbial load be achieved while preventing the coagulation in the egg.
Enzyme inactivation and evaluation of physicochemical properties, sugar and phenolic profile changes in cloudy apple juices after high pressure processing, and subsequent refrigerated storage
Authors: Marszałek Krystian , Szczepańska Justyna , Starzonek Szymon , Woźniak Łukasz , Trych Urszula , Skąpska Sylwia , Rzoska Sylwester , Saraiva Jorge A. , Lorenzo Jose M. , Barba Francisco J.
Published: March 2019

The effect of high pressure processing (HPP) (200–600 MPa/5–45°C/1–15 min) on the enzyme activity and some quality parameters of cloudy apple juice during subsequent storage (4°C for 12 weeks) was investigated. Statistical analysis showed that pressure, temperature, and time had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on tissue enzyme activity, decreasing the activity of polyphenol oxidases (PPO) and peroxidases (POD). No significant changes in physicochemical parameters (pH, total soluble solids, sugars, and vitamin C) were observed after HPP treatments. The main polyphenols detected in apple juice were dichydrochalcones, being phloridzin the predominant (48.8 mg/L), and flavanols, with the highest concentration of (−) epicatechin (20.6 mg/L) followed by (+) catechin (6.4 mg/L) and procyanidin B1 (1.9 mg/L). Moreover, the application of HPP treatment significantly decreased gallic acid, all flavanols and dichydrochalcones. The storage time significantly affected total polyphenol content (TPC) and selected phenolic compounds, but the most stable were TPC.

Practical applications

This study demonstrated that nutritional quality of cloudy not produced from concentrate apple juice after high pressure processing (HPP) and during subsequent cold storage. HPP significantly influenced on tissue oxidoreductive enzymes decreasing their residual activity below 1 and 33%, respectively, for polyphenol oxidases and peroxidases. The results showed that HPP might be a useful method for preservation apple products, resulting higher color stability due to the inhibition of enzymatic reactions during storage time.
Characteristics of acute hepatitis A virus infection before and after 2001: A hospital‐based study in Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Kogiso Tomomi , Sagawa Takaomi , Oda Mayuko , Yoshiko Somura , Kodama Kazuhisa , Taniai Makiko , Tokushige Katsutoshi
Published: March 2019

Background and Aim

The incidence of acute hepatitis A [AH (A)] is decreasing because of improvements in hygiene; however, cases of sporadic severe hepatitis are still being reported. We assessed the epidemiology of AH (A) in Japan.

Methods

This was a hospital‐based retrospective study, in which 126 AH (A) patients (96 men [76%], median age 39 [range, 19–66] years) were enrolled. Patients diagnosed with AH (A) before 2001 (n = 79) and after 2001 (n = 47) were compared.

Results

The incidence of AH (A) showed peaks in 1990, 1999, and 2018. After 2001, one patient had hepatitis B virus, four had human immunodeficiency virus, and three had syphilis coinfections. Before and after 2001, HAV was transmitted, respectively, by raw oysters (28% and 26%), overseas travel (19% and 28%), and sexual contact (0% and 19%) (P < 0.01). The frequencies of symptoms were appetite loss (51% and 32%), fever (63% and 81%), and diarrhea (3% and 13%) (all P < 0.05), respectively. On admission, the median levels of alanine aminotransferase (1455 and 3069 U/L) and γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (221 and 345 U/L) were significantly higher (P < 0.01), and the prothrombin time (77.5% and 65.9%) and platelet count (22.7 and 16.4 × 10/μL) were significantly lower after 2001 (P < 0.05). A time to normalization of the bilirubin level ≥ 30 days was associated with older age and a diagnosis of AH (A) after 2001.

Conclusions

Outbreaks and severe AH (A) cases due to sexual transmission have been reported recently. It is necessary to examine their sexual behavior and other sexual infection.
Sinus venosus incorporation: contentious issues and operational criteria for developmental and evolutionary studies
Authors: Faber Jaeike W. , Boukens Bastiaan J. , Oostra Roelof‐Jan , Moorman Antoon F. M. , Christoffels Vincent M. , Jensen Bjarke
Published: March 2019

The sinus venosus is a cardiac chamber upstream of the right atrium that harbours the dominant cardiac pacemaker. During human heart development, the sinus venosus becomes incorporated into the right atrium. However, from the literature it is not possible to deduce the characteristics and importance of this process of incorporation, due to inconsistent terminology and definitions in the description of multiple lines of evidence. We reviewed the literature regarding the incorporation of the sinus venosus and included novel electrophysiological data. Most mammals that have an incorporated sinus venosus show a loss of a functional valve guard of the superior caval vein together with a loss of the electrical sinuatrial delay between the sinus venosus and the right atrium. However, these processes are not necessarily intertwined and in a few species only the sinuatrial delay may be lost. Sinus venosus incorporation can be characterised as the loss of the sinuatrial delay of which the anatomical and molecular underpinnings are not yet understood.
A KRT16 mutation in the first Chinese pedigree with Pachyonychia congenita and review of the literatures
Authors: Xu Qiaohu , Zhang Qun , Tang Lili , Jin Ling , Wang Xiaomeng , Kan Lixin , Zheng Xiaodong , Yang Sen
Published: March 2019

Background

Pachyonychia congenita (PC), a rare autosomal dominant disorder, is featured by significant hypertrophic nail, palmoplantar keratoderma, and plantar pain. It is caused by the mutation of KRT6A, KRT6B, KRT6C, KRT16, or KRT17.

Aims

To identify the gene mutation caused the PC in a Chinese family.

Patients/Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of five patients and six healthy individuals. Genomic DNA of three patients was sequenced by whole‐exome sequencing (WES). Then, exons 6 of KRT16 of all samples were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and PCR products were sequenced to identify potential mutations.

Results

We identified the proline substitution mutation p.Leu421Pro (c.1262T>C) in the 2B domain of K16 that is associated with PC in a Chinese family. The same mutation was not found in the six healthy individuals of the family.

Conclusions

The mutation found in this study is the first report in China. So far, 25 mutations in KRT16 have been reportedly associated with PC. Twenty‐one mutations are located on exon 1, and four mutations on exon 6.
A 10% Lactobionic acid‐containing moisturizer reduces skin surface pH without irritation—An in vivo/in vitro study
Authors: Tasić‐Kostov Marija , Lukić Milica , Savić Snežana
Published: March 2019

Background/Objectives

Stratum corneum acidification is a newer strategy in management of inflammatory dermatoses; acidifying emollients are normally used for that purpose. However, a decrease in pH of the skin is commonly connected to an increase in irritation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether lactobionic acid (LA), cosmeceutical active and "superacid" belonging to the class of alpha‐hydroxy acids (AHAs), could decrease pH of skin surface without irritation.

Methods

Safety profile of emulsion based on alkyl polyglucosides (APGs) sugar emulsifiers with 10% LA was evaluated in vitro (acute skin irritation test using cytotoxicity assay), and in vivo in safety study employing measurements of the relevant biophysical human skin parameters upon cessation of 24 hours occlusive treatment: transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration (SCH), and skin erythema index (EI). The effect on the pH of human skin surface was investigated by pH measurements prior and 1 hour after application of the emulsion with 10% LA.

Results

The pH of the skin was significantly reduced after application of LA‐containing emulsion. The results for in vitro skin irritation potential assessment were in line with the in vivo safety study, indicating a satisfactory safety profile of both APG‐based emulsion vehicle per se and emulsion with 10% LA.

Conclusion

Lactobionic acid (10%) in emulsion based on APGs reduces skin surface pH without irritation and skin barrier impairment; it could be proposed as an alternative to low‐molecular AHAs in acidifying emollients.