bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between patients’ expectations and experiences of task‐, affect‐ and therapy‐oriented communication and their anxiety in medically unexplained symptoms consultations
Authors: Houwen Juul , Moorthaemer Bas J. E. , Lucassen Peter L. B. J. , Akkermans Reinier P. , Assendelft Willem J. J. , olde Hartman Tim C. , van Dulmen Sandra
Published: December 2018

Background

It is unknown whether patients with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) differ from patients with medically explained symptoms (MES) regarding their expectations and experiences on task‐oriented communication (ie, communication in which the primary focus is on exchanging medical content), affect‐oriented communication (ie, communication in which the primary focus is on the emotional aspects of the interaction) and therapy‐oriented communication (ie, communication in which the primary focus is on therapeutic aspects) of the consultation and the extent to which GPs meet their expectations.

Objective

This study aims to explore (a) differences in patients’ expectations and experiences in consultations with MUS patients and patients with MES and (b) the influence of patients’ experiences in these consultations on their post‐visit anxiety level.

Study design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

Eleven Dutch general practices.

Measurements

Patients completed the QUOTE‐COMM (Quality Of communication Through the patients’ Eyes) questionnaire before and after the consultation to assess their expectations and experiences and these were related to changes in patients’ state anxiety (abbreviated State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory; STAI).

Results

Expectations did not differ between patients with MUS and MES. Patients presenting with either MUS or MES rated their experiences for task‐related and affect‐oriented communication of their GP higher than their expectations. GPs met patients’ expectations less often on task‐oriented communication in MUS patients compared to MES patients (70.2% vs 80.9%; P = ˂0.001). Affect‐oriented communication seems to be most important in reducing the anxiety level of MUS patients (β −0.63, 95% Cl = −1.07 to −0.19).

Discussion

Although the expectations of MUS patients are less often met compared to those of MES patients, GPs often communicate according to patients’ expectations. Experiencing affect‐oriented communication is associated with a stronger reduction in anxiety in patients with MUS than in those with MES.

Conclusion

GPs communicate according to patients’ expectations. However, GPs met patients’ expectations on task‐oriented communication less often in patients with MUS compared to patients with MES. Experiencing affect‐oriented communication had a stronger association with the post‐consultation anxiety for patients with MUS than MES.
CD30‐positive cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma: clinicopathological features and survival outcomes
Authors: Lee Woo Jin , Moon Ik Jun , Shin Ho Jeong , Won Chong Hyun , Chang Sung Eun , Choi Jee Ho , Lee Mi Woo
Published: December 2018

Background

The prognostic value of CD30 expression in cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma is controversial.

Methods

Clinicopathological features, survival outcomes, and prognostic implications of CD30 were retrospectively analyzed in 55 patients with cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma. We classified patients into (i) primary cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma and (ii) cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma secondary to nasal disease depending on the primary tumor site.

Results

CD30+ cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma was more common in patients with cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma secondary to nasal disease than in those with primary cutaneous disease. CD30+ cases were more likely to present nodular lesions or cellulitis‐like swelling than CD30− cases. Histologically, CD30+ cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma predominantly comprised large tumor cells compared with CD30− cases. However, the clinical morphology and tumor cell size were not associated with survival outcomes. CD30 expression was associated with better survival outcomes in patients with cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma secondary to nasal disease.

Conclusion

CD30+ cutaneous extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma presented peculiar clinicopathological features and had more favorable disease course in patients with cutaneous dissemination from nasal disease.
Characterisation of peanut protein concentrates from industrial aqueous extraction processing prepared by spray and freeze drying methods
Authors: Liu Junjun , Li Pengfei , Jiang Zhumao , Yang Ruijin , Zhang Wenbin
Published: December 2018

Peanut protein concentrates (PPCs) were prepared by aqueous extraction processing (AEP), organic solvent extraction processing (SEP) and prepress‐organic solvent extraction processing (P‐SEP) and converted into powder by freeze and spray drying. The drying method showed an influence on the surface morphology and second structure of PPCs. Peanut protein concentrates of AEP were found to have lower protein contents, solubility and higher surface hydrophobicity, resulted in similar emulsion ability index (EAI) values and lower emulsion stability index (ESI) and water‐holding capacity (WHC) values compared to PPCs of SEP and P‐SEP. Foaming capacity was barely affected by oil extraction processing and drying methods, foaming stability was significantly influenced by oil extraction processing. Freeze‐dried PPCs had higher solubility, WHC and fat absorption capacity than spray‐dried PPCs, which was not the case for EAI and ESI. Hence, PPCs of AEP showed adequate functional properties, making AEP more appropriate for phytoprotein beverages.
TACI expression and plasma cell differentiation are impaired in the absence of functional IκBNS
Authors: Khoenkhoen Sharesta , Erikson Elina , Ádori Monika , Stark Julian M , Scholz Jean L , Cancro Michael P , Pedersen Gabriel K , Karlsson Hedestam Gunilla B
Published: December 2018

Impaired classical NF‐κB pathway signaling causes reduced antibody responses to T‐independent (TI) antigens. We investigated the potential reasons for defective TI responses in mice lacking the atypical inhibitory kappa B (IκB) protein of the NF‐κB pathway, IκBNS. Analyses of the plasma cell compartment in vitro and in vivo after challenge with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) showed significant decreases in the frequencies of plasma cells in the absence of IκBNS. In vitro activation of B cells via the B cell receptor or via Toll‐like receptor 4 revealed that early activation events were unaffected in IκBNS‐deficient B cells, while proliferation was reduced compared to in similarly stimulated wildtype (wt) B cells. IκBNS‐deficient B cells also displayed impaired upregulation of the transmembrane activator and calcium modulator cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI), which is essential for TI responses, and decreased sensitivity to TACI ligands upon stimulation. Furthermore, IκBNS‐deficient B cells, in contrast to wt B cells, displayed altered expression of IRF4, Blimp‐1 and Pax5 upon LPS‐induced differentiation, indicating impaired transcriptional regulation of plasma cell generation.
First‐principles study, fabrication, and characterization of (Hf0.2Zr0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Ti0.2)C high‐entropy ceramic
Authors: Ye Beilin , Wen Tongqi , Huang Kehan , Wang Cai‐Zhuang , Chu Yanhui
Published: December 2018

The formation possibility of (Hf0.2Zr0.2Ta0.2Nb0.2Ti0.2)C high‐entropy ceramic (HHC‐1) was first analyzed by the first‐principles calculations, and then, it was successfully fabricated by hot‐pressing sintering technique at 2073 K under a pressure of 30 MPa. The first‐principles calculation results showed that the mixing enthalpy and mixing entropy of HHC‐1 were −0.869 ± 0.290 kJ/mol and 0.805R, respectively. The experimental results showed that the as‐prepared HHC‐1 not only had an interesting single rock‐salt crystal structure of metal carbides but also possessed high compositional uniformity from nanoscale to microscale. By taking advantage of these unique features, it exhibited extremely high nanohardness of 40.6 ± 0.6 GPa and elastic modulus in the range from 514 ± 10 to 522 ± 10 GPa and relatively high electrical resistivity of 91 ± 1.3 μΩ·cm, which could be due to the presence of solid solution effects.
MiR‐552 promotes the proliferation, migration and EMT of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by inhibiting AJAP1 expression
Authors: Qu Weiqing , Wen Xinyuan , Su Keli , Gou Wei
Published: December 2018

Our goal was to explore the function of miR‐552 and its potential target AJAP1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) oncogenesis and progression. In this study, bioinformatics analysis was performed to detect abnormally expressed miRNAs. The relationship between miR‐552 and AJAP1 was validated using luciferase reporter assays. RT‐qPCR and Western blot assays were applied to explore the expression level of miR‐552, AJAP1 and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers. HCC cell proliferation was examined using CCK8 assays, while migration and invasion were investigated using Transwell assays. Nude mouse tumourigenesis models were established to facilitate observation of HCC progression in vivo. Finally, prognostic analysis was performed to discover how the prognosis of HCC patients correlated with miR‐552 and AJAP1 expression. MiR‐552 overexpression in HCC cells promoted HCC cell migration, invasion and EMT by targeting/suppressing AJAP1. Poorer prognosis appeared in HCC patients with higher miR‐552 expression or lower AJAP1 levels. Our findings suggested that miR‐552 promotes HCC oncogenesis and progression by inhibiting AJAP1 expression.
A sex pheromone‐baited trapping system for management of sweetpotato weevil, Cylas formicarius (Coleoptera: Brentidae)
Authors: Dilipkumar Masilamany , Erwan‐Shah Shari , Anuar Abdullah , Sivapragasam Annamalai
Published: December 2018

A potent male attractant of sweetpotato weevil helps in monitoring and control of sweetpotato weevil in many production areas around the world. At present, it has not been used in Malaysia. Cost of the components of a trapping system is a major constraint in the adoption of male lure‐baited trapping by growers in Malaysia. Seven field trapping experiments were conducted from February 2013 to November 2015 as part of an effort to develop a simple, easy to construct, cost‐effective and efficient sex pheromone‐baited trap acceptable for use by farmers in Malaysia for monitoring and control of sweetpotato weevil (Cylas formicarius Fabricius). Overall, sweetpotato weevil trap catch was significantly affected by the number of windows in the trap, the killing agent used in the trap and the position of the trap relative to sweetpotato foliage, while trap size and trap colour did not significantly affect trap catch. Trap catch was best in plastic pole traps made from polyethylene terephthalate, with four window opening to facilitate weevil entry, with detergent solution as a killing agent and with the trap positioned from 0 to 40 cm above the crop canopy level. In a comparison study with commercial trap designs, sex pheromone‐baited plastic pole traps caught 60%–78% more weevils than were caught in sex pheromone‐baited delta traps, wing traps or unitraps. Optimization of trap characteristics is important for improving the performance of pheromone‐baited traps for use in population monitoring or mass‐trapping efforts to minimize crop damage by sweetpotato weevil infestation.
Peripherally acting μ‐opioid antagonist for the treatment of opioid‐induced constipation: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nishie Kenichi , Yamamoto Shuhei , Yamaga Takayoshi , Horigome Naoto , Hanaoka Masayuki
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

Opioid‐induced constipation (OIC) is a frequent adverse event (AE) that impairs patients' quality of life (QOL). Peripherally acting μ‐opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs) have been recognized as a treatment option for OIC, but the effect consistent across the studies has not been evaluated.

Methods

We conducted a quantitative meta‐analysis to explore the efficacy of PAMORA for OIC (registered with PROSPERO: CRD42018085298). We systematically searched randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Medline, Embase, and Central databases. Change from baseline in spontaneous bowel movements, pooled proportion of responders, QOL, and AEs were calculated and compared with results in placebo cases.

Results

We included 31 RCTs with 7849 patients. A meta‐analysis revealed that patients under PAMORA therapy had considerably improved spontaneous bowel movement from baseline compared with those given placebo (20 RCTs; mean difference, 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18–1.68; n = 5622) and more responded (21 RCTs; risk ratio [RR], 1.81; 95% CI, 1.55–2.12; n = 4821). Moreover, QOL of patients receiving PAMORA was significantly better (8 RCTs; mean difference, −0.22; 95% CI, −0.28 to −0.17; n = 2884). AEs were increased significantly in the PAMORA group (26 RCTs; RR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.06–1.15; n = 7715), especially in gastrointestinal disorders, whereas serious AEs were not significant (17 RCTs; RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.85–1.28; n = 5890).

Conclusion

Peripherally acting μ‐opioid receptor antagonist has been shown to be effective and durable for patients with OIC and is the only drug with confirmed evidence in meta‐analysis. The possibility of publication bias was the limitation of this study.
Control of grain size by G protein signaling in rice
Authors: Xu Ran , Li Na , Li Yunhai
Published: December 2018

Heterotrimeric G proteins are involved in multiple cellular processes in eukaryotes by sensing and transducing various signals. G protein signaling in plants is quite different from that in animals, and the mechanisms of plant G protein signaling are still largely unknown. Several recent studies have provided new insights into the mechanisms of G protein signaling in rice grain size and yield control. In this review, we summarize recent advances on the function of G proteins in rice grain size control and discuss the potential genetic and molecular mechanisms of plant G protein signaling.
Sex‐specific contribution of DHEA‐cortisol ratio to prefrontal‐hippocampal structural development, cognitive abilities and personality traits
Authors: Farooqi Nasr A. I. , Scotti Martina , Yu Ally , Lew Jimin , Monnier Patricia , Botteron Kelly N. , Campbell Benjamin C. , Booij Linda , Herba Catherine M. , Séguin Jean R. , Castellanos‐Ryan Natalie , McCracken James T , Nguyen Tuong‐Vi
Published: December 2018

Although dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may exert neuroprotective effects in the developing brain, prolonged or excessive elevations in cortisol may exert neurotoxic effects. The ratio between DHEA and cortisol (DC ratio) has been linked to internalising and externalising disorders, as well as cognitive performance, supporting the clinical relevance of this hormonal ratio during development. However, the brain mechanisms by which these effects may be mediated have not yet been identified. Furthermore, although there is evidence that the effects of cortisol in the central nervous system may be sexually dimorphic in humans, the opposite is true for DHEA, with human studies showing no sex‐specific associations in cortical thickness, cortico‐amygdalar or cortico‐hippocampal structural covariance. Therefore, it remains unclear whether sex moderates the developmental associations between DC ratio, brain structure, cognition and behaviour. In the present study, we examined the associations between DC ratio, structural covariance of the hippocampus with whole‐brain cortical thickness, and measures of personality, behaviour and cognition in a longitudinal sample of typically developing children, adolescents and young adults aged 6‐22 years (N = 225 participants [F = 128]; 355 scans [F = 208]), using mixed effects models that accounted for both within‐ and between‐subject variances. We found sex‐specific interactions between DC ratio and anterior cingulate cortex‐hippocampal structural covariance, with higher DC ratios being associated with a more negative covariance between these structures in girls, and a more positive covariance in boys. Furthermore, the negative prefrontal‐hippocampal structural covariance found in girls was associated with higher verbal memory and mathematical ability, whereas the positive covariance found in boys was associated with lower cooperativeness and reward dependence personality traits. These findings support the notion that the ratio between DHEA and cortisol levels may contribute, at least in part, to the development of sex differences in cognitive abilities, as well as risk for internalising/externalising disorders, via an alteration in prefrontal‐hippocampal structure during the transition from childhood to adulthood.
1927‐nm fiber‐optic diode laser: A novel therapeutic option for facial steatocystoma multiplex
Authors: Cheon Dong Uk , Ko Joo Yeon
Published: December 2018

Steatocystoma multiplex (SM) is a cutaneous disorder that presents with multiple yellowish intradermal cysts originating from the pilosebaceous ducts. Although various treatments have been attempted to improve cosmetic outcomes, no optimal treatment strategy has been established to date. A 41‐year‐old man presented with a 10‐year history of multiple skin‐colored papulonodules over his entire body. He was diagnosed with SM, and we treated his facial SM with a 1927‐nm diode laser. Two treatment sessions at a 5‐week interval led to cosmetically excellent outcomes. There was no recurrence at the 8‐month follow‐up. Herein, we present a case of SM that was successfully treated with a 1927‐nm fiber‐optic diode laser.
Elevated leptin levels in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis promote proinflammatory cytokine IL‐6 expression in synovial fibroblasts
Authors: Xiong Haofei , Li Wei , Li Jiajie , Fang Wei , Ke Jin , Li Bo , Cheng Yong , Wei Lili
Published: December 2018

Background

Leptin, through binding to its special receptor (Ob‐Rb), has potent effects on immunity and inflammation. This study measured the levels of leptin in the synovial fluid of patients with temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ‐OA) and healthy controls, determined the expression of Ob‐Rb and explored the effects and signalling pathways involved in leptin‐induced proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐6 production in TMJ synovial fibroblasts (TMJ‐SFs).

Methods

Synovial fluid samples were obtained from 16 patients with TMJ‐OA and seven healthy controls. Leptin levels were measured in synovial fluid using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Ob‐Rb expression was determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and Western blot in cultured TMJ‐SFs. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was transfected into the TMJ‐SFs to down‐regulate the expression of Ob‐Rb. qRT‐PCR and ELISA were used to determine the levels of proinflammatory cytokine IL‐6 in leptin‐stimulated TMJ‐SFs. The involved signalling pathways that mediate the leptin‐stimulated production of IL‐6 were investigated using specific signalling inhibitor analyses.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, patients with TMJ‐OA had significantly higher concentrations of leptin in their synovial fluid. The expression levels of Ob‐Rb mRNA and proteins were detected in the TMJ‐SFs. Leptin can stimulate the mRNA and protein expression of IL‐6 in TMJ‐SFs by binding with Ob‐Rb. The leptin‐induced production of IL‐6 by the TMJ‐SFs significantly decreased after exposure to siRNA targeting Ob‐Rb. Inhibiting JAK2/STAT3, p38 MAPK or PI3K/Akt substantially decreased leptin‐induced IL‐6 production.

Conclusion

Leptin may up‐regulate IL‐6 production in vitro by binding with Ob‐Rb in TMJ‐SFs via the activation of the JAK2/STAT3, p38 MAPK or PI3K/Akt signalling pathways.
Fatty acid synthase and Ki‐67 immunoexpression can be useful for the identification of malignant component in carcinoma ex‐pleomorphic adenoma
Authors: Díaz Katya Pulido , Gondak Rogério , Martins Leandro Liporoni , de Almeida Oslei Paes , León Jorge Esquiche , Mariano Fernanda Viviane , Altemani Albina , Vargas Pablo Agustin
Published: December 2018

Background

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is the key molecule for catalyzing fatty acid synthesis and have been associated with several malignant tumors.

Methods

We analyzed the expression of FASN and Ki‐67, by immunohistochemistry on 29 carcinomas ex‐pleomorphic adenoma (CXPAs) and 25 pleomorphic adenomas (PAs).

Results

Ki‐67 proliferation index and FASN expression were significantly higher in patients with CXPA than patients with PA (P < 0.001). We found intense immunoreactivity for FASN in the malignant component of CXPAs, and these malignant areas also had intense nuclear immunoreactivity for Ki‐67.

Conclusions

The present results suggest that overexpression of FASN in CXPAs might be associated with malignant transformation of ductal epithelial cells and/or myoepithelial cells from PA. FASN associated with Ki‐67 may be useful diagnostic markers for CXPA.
Melatonin: Another avenue for treating osteoporosis?
Authors: Li Tian , Jiang Shuai , Lu Chenxi , Yang Wenwen , Yang Zhi , Hu Wei , Xin Zhenlong , Yang Yang
Published: December 2018

Melatonin is a signal molecule that modulates the biological circadian rhythms of vertebrates. Melatonin deficiency is thought to be associated with several disorders, including insomnia, cancer, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Accumulating evidence has also indicated that melatonin may be involved in the homeostasis of bone metabolism. Age‐related reductions in melatonin are considered to be critical factors in bone loss and osteoporosis with aging. Thus, serum melatonin levels might serve as a biomarker for the early detection and prevention of osteoporosis. Compared to conventional antiosteoporosis medicines, which primarily inhibit bone loss, melatonin both suppresses bone loss and promotes new bone formation. Mechanistically, by activating melatonin receptor 2 (MT2), melatonin upregulates the gene expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), BMP6, osteocalcin, and osteoprotegerin to promote osteogenesis while inhibiting the receptor activator of NF‐kB ligand (RANKL) pathway to suppress osteolysis. In view of the distinct actions of melatonin on bone metabolism, we hypothesize that melatonin may be a novel remedy for the prevention and clinical treatment of osteoporosis.
The effects of dietary tomato powder (Solanum lycopersicum L.) supplementation on the haematological, immunological, serum biochemical and antioxidant parameters of growing rabbits
Authors: Elwan Hamada A. M. , Elnesr Shaaban Saad , Mohany Mohamed , Al-Rejaie Salim S.
Published: December 2018

Using nutritional antioxidants in livestock systems is considered the key in improving animal production. The current study assumes that dietary tomato powder (TP) supplementation positively affects haemato‐immunological, biochemical, and antioxidant parameters for New Zealand rabbits. A total of 30 rabbits (45 days old) were assigned to three groups, including a diet with no additives (control), and two dietary treatments with the providing of 1% or 2% TP. Mass spectrometric study for TP methanolic extract showed some phenolic compounds. Consumption of TP supplemented diets significantly (p < 0.001) affected body weight gain and feed efficiency. Red blood cells and white blood cells count exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.001) in both TP groups compared with the control. In addition to, feeding rabbits on TP enhanced cell‐mediated and humoral immune responses through a significant increase in phagocytosis, chemotaxis, and levels of immunoglobulins (TIg, IgG, IgM and IgA). Supplementation of TP significantly (p < 0.01) reduced lipid profile induces except high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol values. A remarkable significant (p < 0.001) effect on serum and hepatic oxidative stress responses were observed with TP addition. Ultimately, TP supplementation could play a potential role as a growth and health enhancer for fattening rabbits.
Upregulation of free fatty acid receptors in periodontal tissues of patients with metabolic syndrome and periodontitis
Authors: Li Guang , Robles Samantha , Lu Zhongyang , Li Yanchun , Krayer Joe W. , Leite Renata S. , Huang Yan
Published: December 2018

Background and objective

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) exacerbates periodontitis. Since saturated fatty acid (SFA) is increased in MetS and enhances lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced proinflammatory cytokine expression in macrophages, it has been considered to play a role in MetS‐exacerbated periodontitis. However, it remains unknown how fatty acid receptors, which mediate the interaction of cells with SFA and uptake of SFA, are expressed and regulated in the periodontal tissue. In this study, we tested our hypothesis that the periodontal expression of fatty acid receptors GPR40 and CD36 is increased in patients with both MetS and periodontitis. We also determined the effect of SFA and LPS on GPR40 and CD36 expression in vitro.

Material and methods

Periodontal tissue specimens were collected from 11 participants without MetS and periodontitis, 12 participants with MetS, 11 participants with periodontitis, and 14 participants with both MetS and periodontitis after surgeries. The tissues were processed, and GPR40 and CD36 were detected by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, cultured macrophages and gingival fibroblasts were treated with LPS, palmitate, a major SFA, or LPS plus palmitate and the expression of GPR40 and CD36 was then quantified.

Results

Analysis of clinical data showed that age, smoker, gender, and race/ethnicity were not significantly different among 4 groups. Immunohistochemistry showed that GPR40 and CD36 were expressed by epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells. Quantitative data showed that GPR40 expression is increased in patients with periodontitis, MetS, or both periodontitis and MetS while CD36 expression is increased only in patients with both periodontitis and MetS. The in vitro studies showed that the expression of GPR40 and CD36 in macrophages and fibroblasts was upregulated by the combination of LPS and palmitate.

Conclusion

Periodontal expression of GPR40 and CD36 was upregulated in patients with both MetS and periodontitis, and GPR40 and CD36 in macrophages and fibroblasts were upregulated in vitro by the combination of LPS and palmitate, suggesting that GPR40 and CD36 may be involved in MetS‐exacerbated periodontitis.
The immunity‐related GTPase M rs13361189 variant does not increase the risk for prevalent or incident steatosis; results from the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Simon Tracey G. , Deng Xuan , Liu Ching‐Ti , Chung Raymond T. , Long Michelle T.
Published: December 2018

Background & Aims

Emerging data from paediatric populations suggest that variants in the autophagy‐governing immunity‐related GTPase M (IRGM) gene may contribute to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) susceptibility. We examined the relationship between IRGM rs13361189 variants and NAFLD in a community‐based cohort of adults.

Methods

We included all Framingham Heart Study participants with available data on the IRGM rs13361189 variant, undergoing study‐directed computed tomography (CT) scans of the abdomen (2002‐2005). Using multivariable linear and logistic regression modelling, we evaluated cross‐sectional associations between rs13361189 genotype and hepatic steatosis (HS). Among the subset of participants without baseline HS and who underwent follow‐up CT scan between 2008 and 2011, we used multivariable logistic regression modelling to assess the longitudinal relationship between IRGM rs13361189 genotype and risk for incident HS.

Results

Among 2070 participants (50% women; mean age 51 ± 11 years), 332 (16%) had one copy of the variant rs13361189 variant C allele, while 19 (1%) had the CC genotype. Compared to the TT genotype, there was no increased odds of prevalent HS with the CT or CC genotype (multivariable‐adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.93 [95% CI 0.68‐128] and 0.86 [95% CI 0.46‐1.63], respectively). Among individuals without baseline HS (n = 1052), 19.3% developed incident HS over median 6.1 years. Compared to the TT genotype, neither the CT nor the CC genotype were significantly associated with incident HS (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

In our community‐based, longitudinal cohort of Caucasian adults, variants in the autophagy‐governing IRGM gene at the rs13361189 locus were not associated with increased prevalent or incident HS.
Developmental onset of cardiovascular disease—Could the proof be in the placenta?
Authors: D'Errico Jeanine N. , Stapleton Phoebe A.
Published: December 2018

The Barker Hypothesis states change to the maternal environment may have significant impacts on fetal development, setting the stage for adult disease to occur. The development of the maternofetal vasculature during implantation and maintenance during pregnancy is extremely precise, yet dynamic. Delays or dysfunction in the orchestration of anatomical remodeling, maintenance of blood pressure, or responsiveness to metabolic demand may have severe consequences to the developing fetus. While these intermissions may not be fatal to the developing fetus, an interruption, reduction, or an inability to meet fetal demand of blood flow during crucial stages of development may predispose young to disease later in life. Maternal inability to meet fetal demand can be attributed to improper placental development and vascular support through morphological change or physiological function will significantly limit nutrient delivery and waste exchange to the developing fetus. Therefore, we present an overview of the uteroplacental vascular network, maternal cardiovascular adaptations that occur during pregnancy, placental blood flow, and common maternal comorbidities and/or exposures that may perturb maternal homeostasis and affect fetal development. Overall, we examine uterine microvasculature pathophysiology contributing to a hostile gestational environment and fetal predisposition to disease as it relates to the Barker Hypothesis.
Morphological and pharmacological characterization of the porcine popliteal artery: A novel model for study of lower limb arterial disease
Authors: Frederick Norman E. , Mitchell Ray , Hein Travis W. , Bagher Pooneh
Published: December 2018

Objective

This study was undertaken to characterize structural and pharmacological properties of the pig popliteal artery in order to develop a novel system for the examination of lower limb blood flow regulation in a variety of cardiovascular pathologies, such as diabetes‐induced peripheral artery disease.

Methods

Popliteal arteries were isolated from streptozocin‐induced diabetic pigs or age‐matched saline‐injected control pigs for morphological study using transmission electron microscopy and for examination of vasoreactivity to pharmacological agents using wire myography.

Results

Transmission electron microscopy of the porcine popliteal artery wall revealed the presence of endothelial cell‐smooth muscle cell interactions (myoendothelial junctions) and smooth muscle cell‐smooth muscle cell interactions, for which we have coined the term “myo‐myo junctions.” These myo‐myo junctions were shown to feature plaques indicative of connexin expression. Further, the pig popliteal artery was highly responsive to a variety of vasoconstrictors including norepinephrine, phenylephrine, and U46619, and vasodilators including acetylcholine, adenosine 5′‐[β‐thio] diphosphate, and bradykinin. Finally, 2 weeks after streptozocin‐induced diabetes, the normalized vasoconstriction of the pig popliteal artery to norepinephrine was unaltered compared to control.

Conclusions

The pig popliteal artery displays structural and pharmacological properties that might prove useful in future studies of diabetes‐associated peripheral artery disease and other lower limb cardiovascular diseases.
Clinical characteristics, rapid identification, molecular epidemiology and antifungal susceptibilities of Talaromyces marneffei infections in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Lau Susanna K. P. , Xing Fanfan , Tsang Chi‐Ching , Tang James Y. M. , Tan Yen‐Pei , Ye Haiyan , Lau Ricky W. T. , Chen Jonathan H. K. , Lo Simon K. F. , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: December 2018

Although case series of talaromycosis have been reported in China, their detailed clinical and microbiological characteristics have never been systematically profiled. In this study, we report the clinical characteristics, molecular epidemiology, rapid identification and antifungal susceptibilities of talaromycosis in The University of Hong Kong‐Shenzhen Hospital in Shenzhen. Seven cases of talaromycosis were observed since commencement of hospital service in 2012. Three patients were local Shenzhen residents, whereas the other four were immigrants from other parts of China. Two patients were HIV‐negative, but with underlying diseases requiring immunosuppressive therapy. Two of the seven patients succumbed. All the seven isolates were successfully identified as T. marneffei by MALDI–TOF MS using Bruker database expanded with in‐house generated T. marneffei mass spectra. MLST showed that the seven strains belonged to six different, novel sequences types. Phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated five‐locus sequence revealed that the seven strains were scattered amongst other T. marneffei strains. The MICs of itraconazole, isavuconazole, posaconazole and voriconazole against the seven clinical isolates were low but MICs of anidulafungin were high. Underlying diseases other than HIV infection are increasingly important risk factors of talaromycosis. MALDI–TOF MS is useful for rapid identification. Highly diverse T. marneffei sequence types were observed.
Reactive oxygen species‐mediatedBIN2 activity revealed by single‐molecule analysis
Authors: Song Song , Wang Haijiao , Sun Mengyuan , Tang Jie , Zheng Binglian , Wang Xuelu , Tan Yan‐Wen
Published: December 2018

Much evidence has shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS) regulate several plant hormone signaling cascades, but little is known about the real‐time kinetics and the underlying molecular mechanisms of the target proteins in the brassinosteroid (BR) signaling pathway.

In this study, we used single‐molecule techniques to investigate the true signaling timescales of the majorBRsignaling componentsBRI1‐EMS‐SUPPRESSOR1 (BES1) andBRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE2 (BIN2) ofArabidopsis thaliana.

The rate constants ofBIN2 associating withATPand phosphorylatingBES1 were determined to be 0.7 ± 0.4 mM−1 s−1and 2.3 ± 1.4 s−1, respectively. Interestingly, we found that the interaction ofBIN2 andBES1 was oxygen‐dependent, and oxygen can directly modifyBIN2. The activity ofBIN2 was switched on via modification of specific cysteine (Cys) residues, including C59, C95, C99 and C162. The mutation of these Cys residues inhibited theBRsignaling outputs.

These findings demonstrate the power of using single‐molecule techniques to study the dynamic interactions of signaling components, which is difficult to be discovered by conventional physiological and biochemical methods.
Political and Institutional Determinants of Credit Booms
Authors: Castro Vítor , Martins Rodrigo
Published: December 2018

The literature that investigates credit booms has essentially focused on their economic determinants. This paper explores the importance of political conditionings and central bank independence and provides some striking findings on this matter. Estimating a fixed effects logit model over a panel of developed and developing countries for the period 1975q1–2016q4, we find that credit booms are less likely when right‐wing parties are in office, especially in developing countries, and when there is political instability. However, they have not proven to depend on the electoral cycle. More independent Central Banks are also found to reduce the probability of credit booms. Moreover, they seem to be more likely to occur and spread within a monetary union.
Dynamic thiol/disulfide homeostasis in children with community‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: Temel Münevver Tugba , Demiryürek Seniz , Temel Levent , Saracaloglu Ahmet , Eke Necmi , Baysalman Elif , Mammadov Azad , Coskun Mehmet E , Demiryürek Abdullah T
Published: December 2018

Background

Alteration in thiol level under oxidative stress may contribute to community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). The goal of this study was to determine whether there are changes in thiol/disulfide homeostasis and nitric oxide (NO) in children with CAP.

Methods

In total, 130 participants were involved in the study. Of these, 65 had been diagnosed with CAP on admission, and the remaining 65 were healthy individuals. Serum total thiol and native thiol were measured in each participant using a novel automated spectrophotometric method. The amount of dynamic disulfide bonds and related ratios were calculated from these values. Serum NO was measured on chemiluminescence assay.

Results

Average native thiol, total thiol, and disulfide in the CAP group were significantly lower than in the healthy individuals (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, P = 0.0126, respectively). In addition, disulfide/native thiol (P = 0.0002), and disulfide/total thiol ratios (P = 0.0004) were significantly higher, whereas the native thiol/total thiol ratio (P = 0.0004) was lower in the CAP group. High serum NO was noted in the CAP group (P = 0.0003), but there was no marked correlation between thiol/disulfide and NO.

Conclusion

The changes in endogenous thiol levels under oxidative stress may be associated with the pathogenesis of CAP in pediatric patients.
Deep‐sequencing of Solanum commersonii small RNA libraries reveals riboregulators involved in cold stress response
Authors: Esposito S. , Aversano R. , Bradeen J. M. , Di Matteo A. , Villano C. , Carputo D.
Published: December 2018

Among wild species used in potato breeding, Solanum commersonii displays the highest tolerance to low temperatures under both acclimated (ACC) and non‐acclimated (NACC) conditions. It is also the first wild potato relative with a known whole genome sequence. Recent studies have shown that abiotic stresses induce changes in the expression of many small non‐coding RNA (sncRNA).

We determined the small non‐coding RNA (sncRNAome) of two clones of S. commersonii contrasting in their cold response phenotypes via smRNAseq.

Differential analysis provided evidence that expression of several miRNAs changed in response to cold stress conditions. Conserved miR408a and miR408b changed their expression under NACC conditions, whereas miR156 and miR169 were differentially expressed only under ACC conditions. We also report changes in tasiRNA and secondary siRNA expression under both stress conditions.

Our results reveal possible roles of sncRNA in the regulatory networks associated with tolerance to low temperatures and provide useful information for a more strategic use of genomic resources in potato breeding.
Multi‐stakeholder perspectives on spatial planning processes for mariculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea
Authors: Corner Richard A. , Aguilar‐Manjarrez José , Massa Fabio , Fezzardi Davide
Published: December 2018

Aquaculture provides more than half of the fish used for human consumption, contributing to food security and nutrition, economic growth and improved livelihoods. Aquaculture production in countries bordering the Mediterranean and Black Sea has grown steadily, though not homogenously, mainly based on marine species. To boost development, there is a need to support governance to establish activities within a coordinated spatial planning process. Knowledge of aquaculture spatial planning processes are assessed through consultations with stakeholders from 21 countries using a structured questionnaire, internal review and a workshop to determine major barriers to the implementation in the region. Results suggest different levels of knowledge of regulatory systems in the countries surveyed. Aquaculture zoning is widespread. Site selection is a long and inefficient process, a barrier to investment, exacerbated by an apparent lack of a clear distribution of power and responsibilities. Area management is the least implemented part of the spatial planning process, with few examples of an integrated approach. Poor social acceptance of aquaculture, low technical knowledge and understanding of spatial planning concepts, and a lack of meaningful communication are among the problems highlighted by stakeholders. Although recent advances are evident, the integration of aquaculture with other users of marine space remains a work in progress that requires a specific regulatory framework, capacity building, transparency, good communication and participatory processes. Application of spatial planning following an ecosystem approach to aquaculture can contribute to improvements that have the potential to counter the negative externalities of unplanned or uncoordinated development.
Effectiveness of a novel oral health education technique in maintenance of gingival health and plaque removal efficacy among institutionalized visually impaired children of Bhubaneswar city: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Das Diptajit , Suresan Vinay , Jnaneswar Avinash , Pathi Jayashree , Bala Subramaniam Goutham
Published: December 2018

Aim

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a novel health education method—Audio Tactile Performance (ATP) technique—in maintenance of gingival health and plaque removal efficacy among institutionalized visually impaired children of Bhubaneswar city.

Methods and results

A parallel arm, single blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted among 10‐ to 15‐year‐old visually impaired children. Clinical examinations were done by the examiner blinded to group allocations. Oral health education materials (Braille and audio) were given to control group and ATP technique was given to test group. Clinical examinations for plaque and gingival scores were assessed at baseline, 30 days interval, and 90 days interval. The trial was registered with the Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2017/05/008551). In control group, a greater plaque reduction was observed at 30 days interval (3.58 ± 1.3) when compared to baseline (2.63 ± 2.02) and 90 days interval (3.14 ± 0.88), and this difference was statistically significant. For whole mouth, in test group, a greater reduction in gingival scores was observed at 90 days interval (2.65 ± 1.64) when compared to baseline (4.58 ± 1.63) and 30 days interval (1.23 ± 2.43), and this difference was statistically significant.

Conclusion

ATP was found to be at par with the control group (Braille and audio aids).
Physiological contagion in parent–child dyads during an emotional challenge
Authors: Shih Emily W. , Quiñones‐Camacho Laura E. , Karan Alexander , Davis Elizabeth L.
Published: December 2018

Parents and children mutually influence each other’s behavior, but little work has examined how parent–child dyads influence one another’s physiological responding under conditions of emotional challenge. This is important to examine because physiological substrates underlie the development of self‐regulation. We examined this in 97 parent–child dyads who participated in a frustrating laboratory challenge that first perturbed the affective state of the dyad and then allowed recalibration. Children were between 3 and 7 years of age (M = 5.80 years, SD = 1.25 years; 41 boys). Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and pre‐ejection period (PEP) were assessed continuously as measures of parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system activity, respectively. Actor–partner interdependence models were used to quantify the extent of physiological contagion between partners. The expected actor effects were found for RSA and PEP, and a partner effect was found for RSA only. Specifically, parents’ RSA reactivity to perturbation influenced children’s RSA reactivity during recalibration. This provides additional evidence for parent–child coregulation, during which parents support their children’s regulatory efforts. We found no partner effects for PEP. Taken together, our results suggest that the two ANS branches may serve different regulatory functions, with parasympathetic functioning relating more strongly to social interactions and dyadic challenges like those in the current study. This study provides the first evidence of physiological contagion in an emotionally challenging context between parents and children.
The association of caregivers’ and children’s characteristics with children’s social preference and being a class leader in China
Authors: Liu Lisha , Xu Liangyuan , He Xiaoli , Li Yanfang
Published: December 2018

Children’s social status in China includes both informal (e.g., social preference) and formal (e.g., class leader) statuses. This study examines the associations among caregivers’ characteristics, children’s characteristics, children’s social preference, and being a class leader by using multiple sources of information (caregiver reports, self‐ratings, sociometric methods, and achievement data). The participants were 1,926 fourth‐ to ninth‐ graders (Mage = 12.7; 49.7% males) and their primary caregivers. The caregivers’ characteristics were found to be related more closely to class leader than to social preference. Both higher children’s interpersonal character and academic achievement were associated with higher social preference and class leader; however, academic achievement showed stronger relationships with both types of status than interpersonal character. The children’s characteristics mediated the associations between caregivers’ characteristics and children’s social statuses. The grade difference test showed that interpersonal character had a stronger association with social preference, and academic achievement had a stronger association with class leader in secondary school than in primary school. The results suggest that children’s characteristics (especially academic achievement) are strongly related to Chinese children’s social preference and being a class leader. In addition, the potential role of caregivers’ characteristics and the influence of child age are noteworthy.
Ideological Orientations, LGBT Contact, and Formation of LGBT Policy Position*
Authors: Kordsmeier Briana , Tumlison Creed , Song Geoboo
Published: December 2018

Objective

We seek to understand how political ideology and LGBT contact experiences exert influence on an individual's level of LGBT policy support.

Methods

We apply multivariate regression and posterior simulation‐based conditional process analysis using data collected from a recent national survey of 1,500 American adults.

Results

We find that LGBT contact moderates the effects of individuals’ political ideology on the formation of their LGBT policy preference in distinctive ways. Furthermore, such analytical results hold nuanced differences depending on the specific topic of LGBT policy in consideration.

Conclusion

These findings are significant in terms of previous understandings of the contact theory of attitude change. Regarding the formation of policy positions, it is not simply contact, ideology, or the combination of the two that is influential. Instead, there appears to be a distinction in attitudinal valence toward what a specific policy represents, and thus the support for LGBT equality in that domain.
Successful lung transplantation for chronic Mycobacterium abscessus infection in advanced cystic fibrosis, a case series
Authors: Raats Daan , Lorent Natalie , Saegeman Veroniek , Vos Robin , van Ingen Jakko , Verleden Geert , Van Raemdonck Dirk , Dupont Lieven
Published: December 2018

Pulmonary Mycobacterium abscessus infection in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is difficult to treat and considered a contra‐indication for lung transplantation in most centers. We present four CF patients with chronic pulmonary M abscessus infection, in whom lung transplantation was performed. Through intensive treatment before transplantation, we achieved control of the infection in all but one patient. After a mean of 16 months of follow up, 3 patients are doing well, without evidence of local or disseminated recurrence. One patient died early post‐transplant due to an unrelated cause. These findings support the possibility of lung transplantation with favorable outcome in CF patients with M abscessus infection.