bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: the significance of histological disease severity in lean patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Sookoian S. , Pirola C. J. 
Published: October 2017

SummaryBackgroundCurrent evidence suggests that lean and obese patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) share an altered metabolic and cardiovascular profile. However, there is an incomplete understanding of the natural history of “lean‐NAFLD.” Indeed, an unanswered question is whether lean (BMI ≤ 25 Kg/m2) NAFLD‐patients are protected from severe histological outcomes.AimTo perform a meta‐analysis with the goal of providing a quantitative estimation of the magnitude of fibrosis, as well as histological features associated with the disease severity, in lean versus overweight/obese‐NAFLD patients.MethodsThrough a systematic search up to July 2017, we identified eight studies that compared histological outcomes in lean (n = 493) versus overweight/obese (n = 2209) patients.ResultsRelative to lean‐NAFLD, overweight/obese‐NAFLD patients showed significantly (P = .032) higher fibrosis scores; the observed difference in means between the two groups, which is the absolute difference between the mean value of fibrosis score [0‐4] ± standard error, was 0.28 ± 0.13. The risk of having nonalcoholic steatohepatitis‐NASH (OR 0.58 95% CI 0.34‐0.97) was significantly lower in lean‐NAFLD (n = 322) than in overweight/obese‐NAFLD (n = 1357), P = .04. Relative to lean‐NAFLD, overweight/obese‐NAFLD patients also have significantly greater NAFLD activity (difference in means ± SE: 0.58 ± 0.16, P = .0004) and steatosis (difference in means ± SE: 0.23 ± 0.07, P = .002) scores.ConclusionsLean‐NAFLD patients tend to show less severe histological features as compared to overweight/obese‐NAFLD patients. Subsequent longitudinal assessment is needed to understand the clinical impact of these findings; however, the significant ~ 25% increment of mean fibrosis score in overweight/obese patients suggests that obesity could predict a worse long‐term prognosis.
Influence of stewing time on the texture, ultrastructure and in vitro digestibility of meat from the yellow‐feathered chicken breed
Authors: Qi Jun , Li Xiao , Zhang Wenwen , Wang Huhu , Zhou Guanghong , Xu Xinglian 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThis study assessed the influence of stewing (1, 2 or 3 h) on the texture, ultrastructure and in vitro digestibility of meat from the yellow‐feathered chicken, which is a popular broiler chicken in Asia. Results indicated that longer stewing considerably increased cooking loss of the chicken carcass and tenderness of thigh meat. After 3 h of stewing, protein digestibility decreased from 90.5% to 80.3% and fiber diameter decreased by 8.63 μm. The shear force value of breast meat decreased from 32.34 N at 1 h to 10.29 N at 2 h, and then increased to 39.98 N at 3 h. The texture profile of breast meat remarkably decreased during stewing. Moreover, increased stewing time induced longitudinal and transversal shrinkage of muscle fibers and the degradation of the myosin heavy chain. These findings suggested that prolonged stewing (3 h) resulted in decreased meat qualities, based on the changes in cooking loss, digestibility and texture profile, but that stewing for 2 h increased thigh and breast tenderness. Producers could utilize this information to stew yellow‐feathered chicken meat with desirable qualities.
What is currently known about the genetics of venous thromboembolism at the dawn of next generation sequencing technologies
Authors: Trégouët David‐Alexandre , Morange Pierre‐Emmanuel 
Published: October 2017

SummaryVenous thromboembolism (VTE) has a strong genetic component. This review summarizes what is known at the seventeen genes that are now well established to harbour VTE‐associated genetic variants. In addition, it discusses additional candidate genes that deserve further validation before being claimed as VTE associated genes. Finally, several research strategies are briefly described to identify other molecular determinants of the disease.
Looking back to move forward: Reflections and lessons learned about transitions to adulthood for youth with disabilities
Authors: Nguyen T. , Stewart D. , Gorter J. W. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBackgroundTransition to adulthood is a significant development process experienced by all youth. Since the mid 1990s, researchers at the CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research have been studying this process to assist transitioning youth with disabilities and their families. The objective of this narrative review is to reflect on the work conducted by CanChild researchers, in collaboration with stakeholders, about transitions to adulthood for youth and young adults with disabilities since the publication of the best practice guidelines in 2009.MethodsA narrative review was undertaken through a reflective approach to critically review and summarize all the transition studies completed at CanChild since 2009. The following data were systematically extracted from articles and research reports: study (authors and year of publication), purpose, methods, sample, and lessons learned.ResultsFive studies were identified. An analysis of the findings revealed five key themes that represented lessons learned since the publication of the Ontario‐based best practice guidelines: promoting a noncategorical and lifecourse approach to care; active collaboration among stakeholders involved in transition; capacity building through peer mentorship; greater understanding of the significance of opportunities and experiences; as well as the significance of information, education, and research.ConclusionsThis is the first review to provide perspective on trends in transition research since the publication of the best practice guidelines in 2009. It is hoped that this reflection will assist in the ongoing work of researchers, service providers, policy makers, communities, and families in the area of adult transitions for youth with disabilities.
Immediately restored full arch‐fixed prosthesis on implants placed in both healed and fresh extraction sockets after computer‐planned flapless guided surgery. A 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Ciabattoni Giampiero , Acocella Alessandro , Sacco Roberto 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBackgroundThe treatment of patients by the use of immediate implant placement in post‐extractive site is a challenging procedure.PurposeA 3‐year clinical and radiological study of post‐extractive implants placed using flapless guided surgery and immediately functioning.Materials and MethodsThirty‐two patients (23 females and 9 males), aged between 44 and 73 years (a mean age of 59.5) were treated with immediate full arch restorations and flapless implant surgery in fresh extraction and healed sites. A double‐guide technique stent in conjunction with the NobelGuide system (Nobel Biocare AB, Göteborg, Sweden) was used.ResultsA total of 285 implants over 32 patients were assessed. The patients were clinically and radiologically followed for 3 years. One hundred and ninety‐five implants were placed in the maxilla and 90 in the mandible. Eight patients received implants in both arches. One hundred and ninety‐seven implants were placed in extraction sites (137 maxilla, 60 mandible) and 88 in healed sites (58 maxilla and 30 mandible). The overall cumulative implant survival rate (CISR) was 97.54%. Two implants failed in maxillary healed sites (CISR 96.55%), three in maxillary extraction sites (CISR 97.81%), and two in mandibular extraction sites (CISR 96.66%). No implant failed in healed mandibular sites (CSR 100%). All fixed prostheses maintained stability and good functionality during the follow‐up, accounting for a cumulative prosthesis survival rate (CPSR) of 100%. The overall marginal bone level (MBL) was −0.52 mm (SD −0.18) after 6 months, −0.88 mm (SD −0.20) after 12 months, −1.05 mm (SD −0.21) after 24 months, and −1.32 mm (SD −0.41) after 36 months.ConclusionsComputer‐guided surgery using double‐template technique (DTT) shows a predictable outcome in the medium term, decreasing treatment timing and patient discomfort.
Cardiopulmonary exercise test predicts right heart catheterization
Authors: Correale Michele , Tricarico Lucia , Ferraretti Armando , Monaco Ilenia , Concilio Morena , Padovano Giuseppina , Acanfora Gianfranco , Di Biase Matteo , Brunetti Natale Daniele 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBackgroundRight heart catheterization (RHC) is usually required to confirm the diagnosis of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). As an invasive test, RHC may be associated with possible complications, so noninvasive parameters able to predict PAH at RHC would be extremely useful.AimTo ascertain possible correlations between cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and hemodynamic parameters at RHC indicative of pulmonary hypertension (PH).MethodsThirty‐six consecutive outpatients with suspect of PAH underwent CPET and RHC; the intercept of ventilation (VEint) on the VE vs carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2) and VE/VCO2 slope at CPET and diastolic pressure gradient (DPG), trans‐pulmonary pressure gradient (TPG), mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) at RHC were assessed and compared.ResultsVentilation VCO2 slope was directly related to DPG (r: .41, P: .019), TPG (r: .45, P: .01), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP, r: .36, P: .031), PVR (r: .41, P: .029), VEint and VE/VCO2 slope inversely related to DPG (r: −.63, P < .001), TPG (r: −.67, P < .001), mPAP (r: −.68, P < .001) and PVR (r: −.5, P < .001).ConclusionIn patients with suspected PAH, VEint during exercise and the VE/VCO2 slope might provide useful information to predict results of RHC. Their correlations with PVR and with DPG may be helpful in discriminating patients with isolated postcapillary PH from those with combined postcapillary and precapillary.
Nature protection areas of Europe are insufficient to preserve the threatened beetle Rosalia alpina (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae): evidence from species distribution models and conservation gap analysis
Authors: BOSSO LUCIANO , SMERALDO SONIA , RAPUZZI PIERPAOLO , SAMA GIANFRANCO , GARONNA ANTONIO P. , RUSSO DANILO 
Published: October 2017

1. Natura 2000 network (N2000) and national protected areas (NPAs) are recognised as the most important core ‘units’ for biological conservation in Europe.2. Species distribution models (SDMs) were developed to detect the potential distribution of the rare and threatened cerambycid beetle Rosalia alpina L. in Europe, and the amount of suitable habitat within the N2000 network [special areas of conservation (SACs) and special protection areas (SPAs)], NPAs (e.g. national parks, regional parks, state reserves, natural monuments and protected landscapes) and the overall European protected area network (EPAN) (N2000 + NPAs) was quantified.3. According to this analysis, the suitable habitat for R. alpina in Europe amounts to c. 754 171 km2 and stretches across substantially uninterrupted areas from Portugal to Romania (west to east) and from Greece to Germany (south to north). The overlay between the existing system of conservation areas in Europe (N2000 and NPAs) and the binary map for R. alpina showed that only c. 42% of potential habitat is protected. SACs and SPAs protect c. 25% and 21% of potential habitat, respectively. However, because the two site types often spatially overlap, when taken together the entire N2000 network protects c. 31% of potential habitat. Instead, NPAs offer a degree of protection of c. 29%. Overall, almost 60% of the area potentially suitable for the species is unprotected by the EPAN, an aspect that should be considered carefully when planning the conservation of this beetle at a large scale.4. These results may also help to focus field surveys in selected areas where greater chances of success are encountered to save resources and increase survey effectiveness.
The Eurogroup, power and accountability
Authors: Craig Paul 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThis article considers the role of the Eurogroup in EU decision‐making, a topic that is under‐theorised, more especially given its importance in the overall EU schema. The Eurogroup's power has grown very considerably, largely because of the enhanced role that it has been accorded as a result of the financial crisis, with the result that its power no longer accords with the Treaty provisions that specify its function. The article sets out the Treaty foundations of the Eurogroup, examines its role in EU decision‐making, the rationale for its increased power, and the extent to which it is politically and legally accountable.
The emblematic minnows of the North American Great Plains: A synthesis of threats and conservation opportunities
Authors: Worthington Thomas A , Echelle Anthony A , Perkin Joshuah S , Mollenhauer Robert , Farless Nicole , Dyer Joseph J , Logue Daniel , Brewer Shannon K 
Published: October 2017

AbstractAnthropogenic changes to the Great Plains rivers of North America have had a large, negative effect on a reproductive guild of pelagic‐broadcast spawning (PBS) cyprinid fishes. The group is phylogenetically diverse, with multiple origins of thePBSmode. However, because of incomplete life‐history information,PBSdesignation often relies only on habitat and egg characteristics. We identified 17 known or candidatePBSfishes and systematically synthesized the literature on their biology and ecology in relation to major threats to persistence. Research output on an individual species was unrelated to conservation status, but positively correlated with breadth of distribution. ThePBSspecies have opportunistic life‐history strategies and are typically short‐lived (generally 1–3 years) fishes. ManyPBSspecies have truncated ranges showing declines in both distribution and abundance, especially those endemic to the Rio Grande catchment. Fundamental habitat associations are unknown for many species, particularly regarding seasonal shifts and early life stages. Critical thermal tolerances have been quantified for fivePBSspecies and are generally >35°C. Turbidity and salinity changes are linked to responses at multiple life stages, but information is lacking on interactions between water quality and quantity. Hydrologic alteration appears to be a primary threat toPBSspecies, through complex interactions with landscape fragmentation, and habitat change. We highlight areas where scientific and management communities are lacking information and underline areas of potential conservation gain.
Geography limits island small‐scale fishery production
Authors: Eriksson Hampus , Friedman Kim , Amos Moses , Bertram Ian , Pakoa Kalo , Fisher Rebecca , Andrew Neil 
Published: October 2017

AbstractInteracting social and ecological processes shape productivity and sustainability of island small‐scale fisheries (SSF). Understanding limits to productivity through historical catches help frame future expectations and management strategies, but SSF are dispersed and unaccounted, so long‐term standardized data are largely absent for such analyses. We analysed 40 years of trade statistics of a SSF product that enter international markets (sea cucumber) from 14 Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICT) against response variables to test predictors of fishery production: (i) scale, (ii) productivity and (iii) socio‐economics. Combined production in PICT peaked over 20 years ago, driven by exploitation trends in Melanesia that accounted for 90% of all production since 1971. The size of island fisheries (as measured by total exports), and the duration and magnitude of fishery booms were most influenced by ungovernable environmental variables, in particular land area. The large and high islands of Melanesia sustained larger booms over longer periods than atoll nations. We hypothesize that land area is a proxy for land‐based nutrient availability and habitat diversity, and therefore the productivity of the shallow water areas where SSF are operating. PICT need to tailor management based on the intrinsic productivity of shallow inshore habitats: harvests from atoll nations will need to be smaller per unit area than at the high islands. Particularly countries with low productivity fisheries must consider the crucial economic “safety nets” that export SSF make up for dispersed island populations and incorporate them into broader development and island resilience strategies.
A framework for results‐based management in fisheries
Authors: Nielsen Kåre Nolde , Aschan Michaela Maria , Agnarsson Sveinn , Ballesteros Marta , Baudron Alan , Borges Maria de Fátima , Campos Aida , Chapela Rosa , Daníelsdóttir Anna Kristín , Erzini Karim , Gregersen Ólavur , Holm Petter , Lucchetti Alessandro , Margeirsson Sveinn , Mendes Hugo Vilela , Olsen Petter , Rangel Mafalda , Sala Antonello , Santiago José Luis , Sigurðardóttir Sigríður , Silva Cristina , Sykes Daryl , Viðarsson Jónas Rúnar , Virgili Massimo , Wise Laura , Fernandes Paul George 
Published: October 2017

AbstractWe present a framework for results‐based management (RBM) of commercial fisheries. The core idea of RBM is to reduce micromanagement by delegating management responsibility to resource users. The RBM framework represents an industrial organization approach to co‐management and comprises three defining processes, conducted by three independent “agents”: (i) an “authority” defines specific and measurable and achievable objectives (outcome targets, OTs) for the utilization of fisheries resources, (ii) resource user organizations (termed “operators”) take responsibility for achieving these OTs and provide documentation that (iii) allows independent “auditors” to evaluate the achievement of OTs. Using incentive mechanisms, notably deregulation, RBM grants operators the flexibility to develop and implement innovative and cost‐effective ways to achieve OTs. The feasibility of implementing RBM in five European fisheries was investigated in cooperation with relevant stakeholders through artificial planning processes and computer simulations. The operators involved were enthusiastic, and new management plans were drafted based on the framework. These included socioeconomic OTs in addition to traditional stock objectives, encompassing an ecosystem approach. Several issues are in need of further research to consolidate the approach and prepare the ground for practical implementation, including: the specification of the legal and regulatory framework required to underpin RBM, details of transitional arrangements when shifting towards RBM (including cost‐sharing) and the development of necessary organizational capacity for operators. Initially, we therefore envisage the framework being applied to high‐value single‐species fisheries, with a limited number of participants, which are adequately represented by a competent organization.
Synthesis and microstructural characterization of δ‐phase bismuth‐based electroceramic systems by double‐doping regime
Authors: Yilmaz Serdar , Celen Cigdem 
Published: October 2017

AbstractIn this study, Bi2O3‐based (Er2O3)x(Gd2O3)y(Bi2O3)1‐x‐y ternary compound powders were synthesized with different stoichiometric ratios by the solid‐state reaction method at different annealing treatment. Crystal structure characterization was investigated via X‐ray powder diffraction method in order to determine the fcc‐cubic phases powders. Microstructure properties of pellet samples obtained from scanning electron microscopy. Also, thermal properties and porosity were investigated via differential thermal analysis and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller analysis. δ‐Phase structure was provided at all ternary samples at 800°C heat treatment temperature. The relationship between lattice parameters and total dopant rate was analyzed. As the amount of dopant rate increased, lattice parameters were increased. In conclusion, a correlation between the ionic radius of the dopant cations and lattice parameters was revealed.
Consumer food safety perceptions and self‐reported practices in Greece
Authors: Gkana Eleni N. , Nychas George‐John E. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractA substantial proportion of foodborne illness is associated with food prepared in households. The primary understanding of how foods are handled in private homes comes mostly from questionnaire based studies and direct observation. The aim of this survey was to examine consumers' perceptions and knowledge of safe food handling practices in Greece. More specifically, their attitudes, opinions and self‐reported practices were studied. Data were collected from a total of 399 consumers living in Greece by the use of a self‐administered on‐line survey. The questionnaire consisted of four positive and five negative statements according to the 5‐point Likert scale, which grouped into three constructions using principal component analysis in order to investigate food safety perceptions of consumers. Furthermore, the survey included 11 demographic questions, two close‐ended questions (type yes/no) and four questions that are related to self‐reported food‐handling practices. The results showed that the most commonly known bacterium causing food‐related illness according to respondents' knowledge is Salmonella (99.7%), followed by Escherichia coli (73.9%) and Listeria (58.4%). The overall consumers' score concerning food safety was 32.8 ± 5.37 (full score was 45). No significant differences to the mean score of food safety knowledge were found according to gender, age or the incidence of foodborne illness over the past 12 months. Knowledge and awareness of safe food handling practices was enhanced at higher education levels, while homemakers were found to have deficiencies at this level. Information obtained from consumers can be used to shape educational programs and determine where food safety educational efforts would be most effective and the needed content of the messages.
Quality aspects of fresh‐cut ‘long‐storage tomato’ as affected by package, calcium chloride and storage time
Authors: Patanè Cristina , Malvuccio Angelo , Saita Alessandro , Rizzarelli Paola , Rapisarda Marco , Rizzo Valeria , Muratore Giuseppe 
Published: October 2017

SummaryIn this research, some quality changes during storage at 4 °C were assessed in fresh‐cut fruits of a ‘long‐storage tomato’ landrace, packaged in biocompostable materials (PLA Ingeo tray/NatureFlex™ film) or in conventional plastics (PET tray + polypropylene film). The effects of dipping in CaCl2 on the shelf‐life extension were also assessed. Plants were cultivated both off‐season (greenhouse) and in‐season (open field). CO2 and O2 concentration, fruit weight loss, firmness, colour, microbial load were measured at 0, 4, 7, 12 days of storage. Headspace gas changes and fruit weight loss were minimised in conventional package. BIO package prevented water condensation, led to max 5% weight loss and made fruits less susceptible to spoilage. Dipping in CaCl2 induced better firmness, especially in biopackage. Off‐season fruits had overall lower quality than in‐season fruits; however, these may contribute to extend the production season, with interesting marketing implications for the agri‐food industry.