bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Abandonment of traditional saltworks facilitates degradation of halophytic plant communities and Carpobrotus edulis invasion
Authors: Chefaoui Rosa M. , Chozas Sergio 
Published: March 2019

AbstractAimsIn 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.LocationThe Natural Park of Ria Formosa (Algarve, Portugal).MethodsWe 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.ResultsWe 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.ConclusionsLand‐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

AbstractPropofol 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

AbstractNumerous 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

AbstractThe 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

AbstractObjectivesThe 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 MethodsForty‐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.ResultsDuring 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).ConclusionsAt 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

AbstractBackgroundA newly developed, anodized titanium oxide surface containing anatase has been reported to have antimicrobial properties that could reduce bacterial adherence to abutments.PurposeTo investigate if abutments with the anodized surface improve healing and soft tissue health in a randomized controlled study.Materials and MethodsTest 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.ResultsNo 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.ConclusionsAbutments 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

AbstractBackgroundIt 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.PurposeTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel abutment surface prepared by electrochemical oxidation compared to commercially available machined titanium abutments.Materials and MethodsTwelve 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.ResultsNo 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).ConclusionsThe 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.
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

AbstractRiver 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 AimSuboptimal 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.MethodsYoung 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.ResultsNinety‐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.ConclusionThree‐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

AbstractIntroduction: 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

ABSTRACTThis 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

AbstractA 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

AbstractBackgroundThe 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.MethodFour 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.ResultsTwo 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.ConclusionsThe 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.