bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
False Double Consciousness: Hermeneutical Resources from the Rush Limbaugh Show
Authors: Engelhardt Jeff , Campbell Sarah
Published: March 2018

This article is a study of the interpretive resources developed by Rush Limbaugh on his radio show. Interpretive resources – also called ‘hermeneutical resources’ – are concepts, narratives, conceptual frameworks, etc. that enable subjects to make sense of themselves and their world. Much recent scholarship has explored how a community's interpretive resources influence social interactions or character traits in the community. In Limbaugh's transcripts, we found a pattern of what we call ‘concept doubling’, wherein terms are characterised in a way suggesting that liberals and conservatives express different concepts by their utterances of the same word form. We propose that this promotes an interpretive resource that encourages in those who use it what we call ‘false double consciousness’. We contrast the effects of false double consciousness with those of double consciousness, and we consider the interpretive resources available within false double consciousness.
Reducing uncertainty to promote appropriate decisions when facing hazardous phenomena at an active volcano
Authors: Merlhiot Gaëtan , Mermillod Martial , Le Pennec Jean‐Luc , Hidalgo Silvana , Mondillon Laurie
Published: March 2018

This study investigated a new direction for improving the decision making of populations at risk in the context of uncertain environmental events, such as volcanic hazards. According to the risk as feelings theory and dual process models, situations with certain outcomes do not necessarily require the use of affect heuristics (e.g., experienced feelings, anticipated emotions) as valid information in the decision‐making process. In the case of difficult decisions with moral dilemmas, certainty could even improve decisions. Thus, using an ecological design with various scenarios depicting upcoming volcanic hazards, we examined whether reducing the uncertainty of lethal threat by conveying certainty in an information campaign could influence decision making and promote a better quality of choice (correct application of the recommendations from the competent authorities). We focused specifically on two populations composed of local people living in the vicinity of an active volcano (Tungurahua volcano, Ecuador) and local scientists. We also examined whether a difficult decision involving a moral dilemma (e.g., leaving people behind so as not to jeopardize one's own life) potentiated this effect, compared to a less difficult situation without a dilemma. We demonstrated that, for local people facing a moral dilemma (difficult decision), the reduction of uncertainty of lethal threat involved a better application of the actual recommendations. These outcomes provided perspectives on improving the applications of the recommendations among local populations at risk in the context of a real risk exposure.
Predictors of “the last acceptable racism”: Group threats and public attitudes toward Gypsies and Travellers
Authors: Hutchison Paul , Chihade Raluca , Puiu Andrei A.
Published: March 2018

Prejudice against Gypsies/Travellers is prevalent in the United Kingdom and elsewhere but there is a lack of research investigating the underlying factors. The present research examined the relationships between different types of intergroup threats and their antecedents and U.K. residents' attitudes toward Gypsies/Travellers. Regression analyses confirmed that negative stereotypes, symbolic threats, and intergroup anxiety predicted attitudes, whereas multicultural ideology endorsement, ingroup identification, realistic threats, and intergroup anxiety predicted support for Gypsy/Traveller group rights. Moreover, multicultural ideology endorsement predicted support for group rights indirectly through realistic threats, whereas negative stereotypes predicted attitudes indirectly through symbolic threats and intergroup anxiety and predicted support for group rights indirectly through realistic threats and intergroup anxiety. Discussion focuses on the implications for strategies aimed at reducing what is often defined as “the last acceptable racism.”
Resist, recover or both? Growth plasticity in response to drought is geographically structured and linked to intraspecific variability in Pinus pinaster
Authors: Sánchez‐Salguero Raúl , Camarero J. Julio , Rozas Vicente , Génova Mar , Olano José M. , Arzac Alberto , Gazol Antonio , Caminero Leocadia , Tejedor Ernesto , de Luis Martín , Linares Juan C.
Published: March 2018

Aim

We investigate the effects of the environmental and geographical processes driving growth resilience and recovery in response to drought in Mediterranean Pinus pinaster forests. We explicitly consider how intraspecific variability modulates growth resilience to drought.

Location

Western Mediterranean basin.

Methods

We analysed tree rings from a large network of 48 forests (836 trees) encompassing wide ecological and climatic gradients, including six provenances. To characterize the major constraints of P. pinaster growth under extremely dry conditions, we simulated growth responses to temperature and soil moisture using a process‐based growth model coupled with the quantification of climate–growth relationships. Then, we related growth–resilience indices to provenance and site variables considering different drought events.

Results

Pinus pinaster displayed strong variation in growth resilience across its distributional range, but common patterns were found within each provenance. Post‐drought resilience increased with elevation and drier conditions but decreased with spring precipitation. Trees from dry sites were less resistant to drought but recovered faster than trees from wet sites.

Main conclusions

Resilience strategies differed among tree provenances: wet forests showed higher growth resistance to drought, while dry forests presented faster growth recovery, suggesting different impacts of climate warming on forest productivity. We detected geographically structured resilience patterns corresponding to different provenances, confirming high intraspecific variability in response to drought. This information should be included in species distribution models to simulate forest responses to climate warming and forecasted aridification.
When knowing is believing: A multi‐trait analysis of self‐reported TPCK
Authors: Krauskopf K. , Forssell K.
Published: March 2018

In an effort to understand teachers' technology use, recent scholarship has explored the idea of technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPCK or TPACK). Many studies have used self‐reports to measure this knowledge (SR TPCK). Several studies have examined the construct validity of these assessments by analysing the internal relationships of the knowledge domains, but little attention has been paid to how SR TPCK relates to external criteria. We tackled this question of discriminant validity by reanalysing 2 data sets. We used correlation and multiple regression analyses to explore whether conceptually related constructs explain any variance in participants' SR TPCK. In Study 1, we applied this strategy to German pre‐service teachers using technology use, attitudinal variables, and objective measures of teachers' knowledge of technology and pedagogy as external criteria. In Study 2, we examined measures of technology knowledge, experience, and pro‐technology beliefs for in‐service teachers in the United States. Across both studies, a sizeable amount of the variance in SR TPCK is explained by teachers' prior technology use and pro‐technology attitudes. In contrast, fact‐based tests of technology and pedagogy are distinct from SR TPCK. We discuss implications for these findings and argue that researchers should gather complementary measures in concert.
The use of mobile messaging‐based case studies in a pharmacotherapy introduction class in China
Authors: Wang X. , Li M. , Wang M. , Cui S. , Shi L. , Duan L. , Wang T.
Published: March 2018

This study is to examine the attitudes of students towards the case studies based on mobile messaging in a pharmacotherapy introduction class. Case studies were divided into 4 groups, with 30 pharmacy students each group. Each group was required to share pharmaceutical care plans on WeChat by posting messages. A post‐activity survey was conducted: Over 70% of the students agreed that mobile messaging‐based case studies (MMBC) helped developing skills and knowledge and stimulating additional research and readings. Over 60% of the students felt that MMBC helped understanding others' viewpoints and sharing their experience and knowledge. More than half of the students agreed that MMBC was more convenient than traditional and internet‐based case study. Less than 30% of the students agreed that the interaction with other students was good.

The findings reflect the MMBC studies' popularity with students. Recommendations to use MMBC studies include (a) balance the merits, such as expressing opinions clearly and concisely, allowing for collaborative learning, with the drawbacks: distraction and the low quality of interactions; (b) use small groups for case discussion; (c) design a collaborative schedule dividing the discussion into different sections.
Utility of Doppler sonography for renal artery stenosis screening in obese children with hypertension
Authors: Makhija Pooja , Wilson Christopher , Garimella Sudha
Published: March 2018

Pediatric hypertension guidelines recommend Doppler renal ultrasonography as a screening study for the evaluation of possible renal artery stenosis (RAS) in normal‐weight children ≥ 8 years of age who are suspected of having RAS and who will cooperate with the procedure. Obese children are excluded because of technical and vascular concerns. There are no data on RI in obese children. This is a retrospective review of children aged 1.5‐18 who received Doppler imaging studies over a 10‐year period. A total of 174 patients were studied. There was no significant difference between the RI values based on BMI. Of the 174 individuals in the study 22 obtained follow‐up CT/MRA after abnormal Doppler ultrasounds. On advanced imaging 3 were confirmed to have RAS. Obesity does not seem to influence RI.RI alone should not be used as a screening tool for RAS. An approach toward diagnosis is suggested based on BMI, renin levels, and ultrasound.
Effect of the in vivo application of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor on NK cells in bone marrow and peripheral blood
Authors: Yu Xing‐Xing , Han Ting‐Ting , Xu Ling‐Ling , Chang Ying‐Jun , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Zhao Xiang‐Yu
Published: March 2018

Granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) has been widely used in the field of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) for priming donor stem cells from the bone marrow (BM) to peripheral blood (PB) to collect stem cells more conveniently. Donor‐derived natural killer (NK) cells have important antitumour functions and immune regulatory roles post‐allo‐HSCT. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of G‐CSF on donors' NK cells in BM and PB. The percentage of NK cells among nuclear cells and lymphocyte was significantly decreased and led to increased ratio of T and NK cells in BM and PB post‐G‐CSF in vivo application. Relative expansion of CD56bri NK cells led to a decreased ratio of CD56dim and CD56bri NK subsets in BM and PB post‐G‐CSF in vivo application. The expression of CD62L, CD54, CD94, NKP30 and CXCR4 on NK cells was significantly increased in PB after G‐CSF treatment. G‐CSF treatment decreased the IFN‐γ‐secreting NK population (NK1) dramatically in BM and PB, but increased the IL‐13‐secreting NK (NK2), TGF‐β‐secreting NK (NK3) and IL‐10‐secreting NK (NKr) populations significantly in BM. Clinical data demonstrated that higher doses of NK1 infused into the allograft correlated with an increased incidence of chronic graft‐vs‐host disease post‐transplantation. Taken together, our results show that the in vivo application of G‐CSF can modulate NK subpopulations, leading to an increased ratio of T and NK cells and decreased ratio of CD56dim and CD56bri NK cells as well as decreased NK1 populations in both PB and BM.
Smad7 deficiency decreases iron and haemoglobin through hepcidin up‐regulation by multilayer compensatory mechanisms
Authors: An Peng , Wang Hao , Wu Qian , Wang Jiaming , Xia Zhidan , He Xuyan , Wang Xinhui , Chen Yan , Min Junxia , Wang Fudi
Published: March 2018

To maintain iron homoeostasis, the iron regulatory hormone hepcidin is tightly controlled by BMP‐Smad signalling pathway, but the physiological role of Smad7 in hepcidin regulation remains elusive. We generated and characterized hepatocyte‐specific Smad7 knockout mice (Smad7Alb/Alb), which showed decreased serum iron, tissue iron, haemoglobin concentration, up‐regulated hepcidin and increased phosphor‐Smad1/5/8 levels in both isolated primary hepatocytes and liver tissues. Increased levels of hepcidin lead to reduced expression of intestinal ferroportin and mild iron deficiency anaemia. Interestingly, we found no difference in hepcidin expression or phosphor‐Smad1/5/8 levels between iron‐challenged Smad7Alb/Alb and Smad7flox/flox, suggesting other factors assume the role of iron‐induced hepcidin regulation in Smad7 deletion. We performed RNA‐seq to identify differentially expressed genes in the liver. Significantly up‐regulated genes were then mapped to pathways, revealing TGF‐β signalling as one of the most relevant pathways, including the up‐regulated genes Smad6, Bambi and Fst (Follistatin). We found that Smad6 and Bambi—but not Follistatin—are controlled by the iron‐BMP–Smad pathway. Overexpressing Smad6, Bambi or Follistatin in cells significantly reduced hepcidin expression. Smad7 functions as a key regulator of iron homoeostasis by negatively controlling hepcidin expression, and Smad6 and Smad7 have non‐redundant roles. Smad6, Bambi and Follistatin serve as additional inhibitors of hepcidin in the liver.
Humanization of fibroblast growth factor 1 single‐chain antibody and validation for its antitumorigenic efficacy in breast cancer and glioma cells
Authors: He Xiao‐Xiao , Du Shuang , Gao Shi‐Qian , Chen Jing‐Ying , Cao Ran‐Juan , Xing Zhen‐Kai , Kazim Alia Rizvi Syeda , Yu Hua‐Li , Zheng Qing‐Chuan , Zhu Xiao‐Juan
Published: March 2018

Single‐chain variable fragment (scFv) antibodies are the smallest immunoglobulins with high antigen‐binding affinity. We have previously reported that fibroblast growth factor 1 played pivotal roles in cancer development and generated a mouse scFv (mscFv1C9) could effectively prohibit cancer cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Here, we further humanized this scFv (hscFv1C9) using a structure‐guided complementarity determining region grafting strategy. The purified hscFv1C9 maintained similar antigen‐binding affinity and specificity as mscFv1C9, and it was capable of inhibiting growth of different tumours in vitro and in vivo. These data strongly suggested that hscFv1C9 has antitumour potentials.
Inhibition of yes‐associated protein suppresses brain metastasis of human lung adenocarcinoma in a murine model
Authors: Hsu Ping‐Chih , Miao Jinbai , Huang Zhen , Yang Yi‐Lin , Xu Zhidong , You Joanna , Dai Yuyuan , Yeh Che‐Chung , Chan Geraldine , Liu Shu , Urisman Anatoly , Yang Cheng‐Ta , Jablons David M. , You Liang
Published: March 2018

Yes‐associated protein (YAP) is a main mediator of the Hippo pathway and promotes cancer development and progression in human lung cancer. We sought to determine whether inhibition of YAP suppresses metastasis of human lung adenocarcinoma in a murine model. We found that metastatic NSCLC cell lines H2030‐BrM3(K‐rasG12C mutation) and PC9‐BrM3 (EGFRΔexon19 mutation) had a significantly decreased p‐YAP(S127)/YAP ratio compared to parental H2030 (K‐rasG12C mutation) and PC9 (EGFRΔexon19 mutation) cells (P < .05). H2030‐BrM3 cells had significantly increased YAP mRNA and expression of Hippo downstream genes CTGF and CYR61 compared to parental H2030 cells (P < .05). Inhibition of YAP by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA) significantly decreased mRNA expression in downstream genes CTGF and CYR61 in H2030‐BrM3 cells (P < .05). In addition, inhibiting YAP by YAP shRNA significantly decreased migration and invasion abilities of H2030‐BrM3 cells (P < .05). We are first to show that mice inoculated with YAP shRNA‐transfected H2030‐BrM3 cells had significantly decreased metastatic tumour burden and survived longer than control mice (P < .05). Collectively, our results suggest that YAP plays an important role in promoting lung adenocarcinoma brain metastasis and that direct inhibition of YAP by shRNA suppresses H2030‐BrM3 cell brain metastasis in a murine model.
Inhibition of yes‐associated protein down‐regulates PD‐L1 (CD274) expression in human malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Hsu Ping‐Chih , Miao Jinbai , Wang Yu‐Cheng , Zhang Wen‐Qian , Yang Yi‐Lin , Wang Chih‐Wei , Yang Cheng‐Ta , Huang Zhen , You Joanna , Xu Zhidong , Jablons David M. , You Liang
Published: March 2018

Although tumour PD‐L1 (CD274) expression had been used as a predictive biomarker in checkpoint immunotherapy targeting the PD1/PD‐L1 axis in various cancers, the regulation of PD‐L1 (CD274) expression is unclear. Yes‐associated protein (YAP), an important oncogenic protein in Hippo signalling pathway, reportedly promotes cancer development. We investigated whether inhibition of YAP down‐regulates PD‐L1 (CD274) in human malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Western blotting showed that 2 human MPM cell lines (H2052 and 211H) had increased PD‐L1 protein expression compared to H290, MS‐1 and H28 cells. In H2052 and 211H cells, PD‐L1 mRNA expression was significantly increased compared to other MPM cell lines; YAP knockdown by small interfering RNA decreased PD‐L1 protein and mRNA expression. Forced overexpression of the YAP gene increased PD‐L1 protein expression in H2452 cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay showed the precipitation of PD‐L1 enhancer region encompassing 2 putative YAP‐TEAD‐binding sites in H2052 cells. We found that, in human MPM tissue microarray samples, YAP and PD‐L1 concurrently expressed in immunohistochemistry stain (n = 70, P < .05, chi‐square). We conclude that PD‐L1 is correlated with YAP expression, and inhibition of YAP down‐regulates PD‐L1 expression in human MPM. Further study of how YAP regulates PD‐L1 in MPM is warranted.
The European Commission's Fight against Cartels (1962–2014): A Retrospective and Forensic Analysis
Authors: Ordóñez‐De‐Haro José Manuel , Borrell Joan‐Ramon , Jiménez Juan Luis
Published: March 2018

On the basis of information collected from all the published European Commission's decisions in cartel cases between 1962 and 2014, this paper identifies different stages in the supra‐nationalization of cartel policy at the European Union (EU) level. It analyzes major competition policy reforms, strategies and initiatives taken by the European Commission (EC), and its relationship and interaction with Member States’ resistance and other policy players’ positions, which offers a new in‐depth study on the history and political economy of a key pillar of EU integration. It also provides a forensic analysis of the sanctioned cartels at each stage. This study shows that the introduction of the leniency programme was a critical juncture that allowed cartel authorities to identify cartels more effectively and to provide evidence for sanctioning collusion much more easily than before. This success was a key determinant for deepening the EU integration in competition policy. The intended drivers and the paradoxically unexpected shifters of such growing integration in cartel policy enforcement at the EU are discussed.
Gender and the EU's Support for Security Sector Reform in Fragile Contexts
Authors: Ansorg Nadine , Haastrup Toni
Published: March 2018

How does the European Union (EU) include ‘gender’ within its support to security sector reform (SSR) programmes? The EU has committed to include gender perspectives by implementing the Women, Peace and Security agenda (WPS) within its foreign security practices. While researchers and practitioners recognise the importance of integrating gender issues into SSR operational effectiveness, there is limited knowledge about how this functions within the EU's security architecture. This article uses Feminist Institutionalism (FI) to understand the process of gender mainstreaming within the EU's support to SSR programmes. It does this by using two crucial theory‐testing cases of SSR programmes – Ukraine and Afghanistan. It finds that the EU's ability to promote gender inclusive approaches to SSR is limited by the structure of the EU's own assumptions and capabilities, and institutional constraints in third countries. At the same time, the cases underscore the importance of individuals as agents of change.
Early and late implant failure of submerged versus non‐submerged implant healing: A systematic review, meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Troiano Giuseppe , Lo Russo Lucio , Canullo Luigi , Ciavarella Domenico , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Laino Luigi
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The aim of this systematic review was to analyse current evidence regarding differences in early and late implant failure as well as in marginal bone level (MBL) changes between submerged and non‐submerged healed dental implants.

Methods

PUBMED, SCOPUS, EMBASE and Web of Science databases were searched for prospective randomized and non‐randomized controlled studies addressing direct comparison between submerged and non‐submerged implant healing, without performing immediate loading. Early and late implant failure (before or after 6 months from implant placement, respectively) together with MBL were the investigated outcomes. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane Collaboration Tool for Randomized clinical trials. Meta‐analysis was performed and the power of the meta‐analytic findings determined by trial sequential analysis (TSA).

Results

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Results of this systematic review revealed a small higher rate (2%) of early implant failure when a non‐submerged healing approach is performed. Late implant failure appears not to be different in submerged or non‐submerged healing, but the power of evidence, as determined by TSA, is not high. If we consider MBL changes at 1 year from implant load, it seems that non‐submerged healing may better preserve marginal bone, although with a small effect size (0.13 mm).

Conclusions

Implants placed with a non‐submerged technique have a higher risk (2%) of early failure. The power of the evidence about the effects on MBL is low, but present results seem to favour non‐submerged healing, although with a very small effect size.
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ plays dual roles on experimental periodontitis in rats
Authors: Qiao Weiwei , Wang Changning , Huang Wushuang , Hu Yingying , Song Yaling
Published: March 2018

Aim

To investigate the effects of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) on inflammation control and bone remodelling in experimental periodontitis in rats.

Materials and methods

Experimental periodontitis was induced in rats by thread ligation around cervixes of mandibular first molars. PPARγ agonist, antagonist and vehicle were intraperitoneally administrated, respectively, into rats. Ninety‐six male SD rats were randomly divided into control, ligation + vehicle, ligation + agonist and ligation + antagonist groups. After 1, 4 and 8 weeks, alveolar bone loss was assessed by Micro‐CT and HE staining. Inflammation and bone metabolism factors were evaluated by ELISA and immunohistochemical examination. Osteoclasts were quantified by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining.

Results

Alveolar bone loss was significantly reduced after 1 week, while significantly increased after 8 weeks in agonist group, but antagonist group showed the opposite trend. Agonist decreased some inflammatory cytokines expression after 1 and 4 weeks, downregulated OPG, RUNX2, BMP‐2 and upregulated RANKL after 8 weeks, but antagonist brought the opposite effect. PPARγ agonist significantly reduced osteoclast counting after 1 week, while increased it after 8 weeks.

Conclusions

During periodontitis progression, PPARγ could inhibit inflammation, prevent bone resorption within a short time, while the long‐term PPARγ activation would lead to increased bone resorption, and PPARγ repression by antagonist would enhance alveolar bone formation.
Appraisal of systematic reviews on the management of peri‐implant diseases with two methodological tools
Authors: Faggion Clovis Mariano , Monje Alberto , Wasiak Jason
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the performance of two methodological instruments to appraise systematic reviews and to identify potential disagreements of systematic review authors regarding risk of bias (RoB) evaluation of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in systematic reviews on peri‐implant diseases.

Material/methods

We searched Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar for systematic reviews on peri‐implant diseases published before July 11, 2017. Two authors independently evaluated the RoB and methodological quality of the systematic reviews by applying the Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) tool and Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) checklist, respectively. We assessed the RoB scores of the same RCTs published in different systematic reviews.

Results

Of the 32 systematic reviews identified, 23 reviews addressed the clinical topic of peri‐implantitis. A high RoB was detected for most systematic reviews (n=25) using ROBIS, whilst five systematic reviews displayed low methodological quality by AMSTAR. Almost 30% of the RoB comparisons (for the same RCTs) had different RoB ratings across systematic reviews.

Conclusions

The ROBIS tool appears to provide more conservative results than AMSTAR checklist. Considerable disagreement was found among systematic review authors rating the same RCT included in different systematic reviews.
Surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis using enamel matrix derivative, an RCT: 3‐ and 5‐year follow‐up
Authors: Isehed Catrine , Svenson Björn , Lundberg Pernilla , Holmlund Anders
Published: March 2018

Objective

To assess the clinical and radiographic outcomes 3 and 5 years after the surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis per se or in combination with an enamel matrix derivative (EMD).

Materials and Methods

At baseline, 29 patients were randomized to surgical treatment with adjunctive EMD or no EMD. One year after the surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis, 25 patients remained eligible for survival analyses at the 3‐ and 5‐year follow‐up. The primary outcomes were implant loss and bone level (BL) change measured on radiographs, and the secondary outcomes, bleeding on probing, pus and plaque at each implant were analysed in 18 and 14 patients at the 3‐ and 5‐year follow‐up, respectively.

Results

After exclusion of four patients who discontinued the study, at the 3‐year follow‐up, 13 (100%) implants survived in the EMD group, and 10 of 12 (83%) in the non‐EMD group. At the 5‐year follow‐up, 11 of 13 (85%) implants in the EMD group and nine of 12 (75%) in the non‐EMD group survived. In multivariate modelling, BL changes and EMD treatment were positively associated with implant survival. Similarly, the same trend was seen in univariate analysis.

Conclusions

An exploratory analysis suggests that adjunctive EMD is positively associated with implant survival up to 5 years, but larger studies are needed.
Lactation and progression to type 2 diabetes in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Feng Lijun , Xu Qunli , Hu Zhefang , Pan Hongying
Published: March 2018

Aims/Introduction

To explore the association between lactation and type 2 diabetes incidence in women with prior gestational diabetes.

Materials and Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library for cohort studies published through 12 June 2017 that evaluated the effect of lactation on the development of type 2 diabetes in women with prior gestational diabetes. A random effects model was used to estimate relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 13 cohort studies were included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled result suggested that compared with no lactation, lactation was significantly associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.48–0.90, I2 = 72.8%, P < 0.001). This relationship was prominent in a study carried out in the USA (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.43–0.99), regardless of study design (prospective design RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.41–0.76; retrospective design RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.40–0.99), smaller sample size (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.30–0.92, P = 0.024) and follow‐up duration >1 years (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.56–1.00), and the study used adjusted data (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.50–0.94). Finally, by pooling data from three studies, we failed to show that compared with no lactation, long‐term lactation (>1 to 3 months postpartum) was associated with the type 2 diabetes risk (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.41–1.17).

Conclusions

The present meta‐analysis showed that lactation was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes in women with prior gestational diabetes. Furthermore, no significant relationship between long‐term lactation and type 2 diabetes risk was detected. The impact of long‐term lactation and the risk of type 2 diabetes should be verified in further large‐scale studies.
(Pro)renin receptor: Involvement in diabetic retinopathy and development of molecular targeted therapy
Authors: Kanda Atsuhiro , Ishida Susumu
Published: March 2018

The renin–angiotensin system (RAS), a crucial regulator of systemic blood pressure (circulatory RAS), plays distinct roles in pathological angiogenesis and inflammation in various organs (tissue RAS), such as diabetic microvascular complications. Using ocular clinical samples and animal disease models, we elucidated molecular mechanisms in which tissue RAS excites the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐A responsible for retinal inflammation and angiogenesis, the two major pathological events in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Furthermore, we showed the involvement of (pro)renin receptor [(P)RR] in retinal RAS activation and its concurrent intracellular signal transduction (e.g., extracellular signal‐regulated kinase); namely, the (P)RR‐induced dual pathogenic bioactivity referred to as the receptor‐associated prorenin system. Indeed, neovascular endothelial cells in the fibrovascular tissue collected from eyes with proliferative DR were immunoreactive for the receptor‐associated prorenin system components including prorenin, (P)RR, phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and VEGF‐A. Protein levels of soluble (P)RR increased with its positive correlations with prorenin, renin enzymatic activity and VEGF in the vitreous of proliferative DR eyes, suggesting a close link between (P)RR and VEGF‐A‐driven angiogenic activity. Furthermore, we revealed an unsuspected, PAPS‐independent role of (P)RR in glucose‐induced oxidative stress. Recently, we developed an innovative single‐strand ribonucleic acid interference molecule selectively targeting human and mouse (P)RR, and confirmed its efficacy in suppressing diabetes‐induced retinal inflammation in mice. Our data using clinical samples and animal models suggested the significant implication of (P)RR in the pathogenesis of DR, and the potential usefulness of the ribonucleic acid interference molecule as a therapeutic agent to attenuate ocular inflammation and angiogenesis.
Google search trends in psoriasis: a pilot evaluation of global population interests
Authors: Martinez‐Lopez A. , Ruiz‐Villaverde R. , Molina‐Leyva A.
Published: March 2018

Linked article: This article is commented on by C. Hsu, p. 1628 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.15237
RASopathic comedone‐like or cystic lesions induced by vemurafenib: a model of skin lesions similar but not identical to those induced by dioxins MADISH
Authors: Kaya G. , Saxer‐Sekulic N. , Kaya A. , Sorg O. , Boespflug A. , Thomas L. , Saurat J.H.
Published: March 2018

Background

Patients treated with vemurafenib for metastatic melanoma often develop skin lesions similar to those observed after exposure to dioxin‐like compounds. We previously called these lesions MADISH (metabolizing acquired dioxin‐induced skin hamartoma) when analysing a case of acute dioxin poisoning.

Objective

We performed a clinical trial aimed at comparing the skin lesions observed under vemurafenib treatment with MADISH in order to bring to light a possible crosstalk between vemurafenib and dioxin pathways.

Methods

In this case series study, we explored the histological aspect of skin lesions in 10 cases treated with vemurafenib for malignant melanoma. We also analysed the ability of vemurafenib and tyrosine kinase inhibitors to induce dioxin–AhR pathway.

Results

All patients had skin lesions diagnosed as ‘non‐inflammatory acneiform eruption’ by dermatologists. These were predominantly facial with notable retroauricular involvement and clinically compatible with chloracne/MADISH when assessed by dioxin expert. Histological analysis showed mostly comedone‐like lesions and dermal cysts containing epithelial wall with basal or lateral epithelial projections and lamellar keratinization and alterations of remaining sebaceous glands. The expression of CYP1A1, a gene highly induced following dioxin exposure, was not observed in these lesions. Vemurafenib and the tyrosine kinase inhibitors erlotinib and gefitinib did not induce CYP1A1 activity.

Discussion

Although the skin lesions under vemurafenib treatment were morphologically similar to MADISH, the absence of CYP1A1 expression in dermal cysts of patients and the absence of CYP1A1 activation by vemurafenib led us consider that these skin lesions were different from true MADISH and not mediated by a crosstalk of AhR signalling, but rather to a hyperactivation of PI3K‐Akt pathway as a consequence of vemurafenib treatment. A strong expression of CYP1A1 in the epithelial wall of dermal cysts must be required, parallel to the morphology of the lesions, to make the diagnosis of MADISH, the hallmark of an exposure to dioxin‐like/chloracnegen compounds.
Association of serious infections with pemphigus and pemphigoid: analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample
Authors: Ren Z. , Narla S. , Hsu D.Y. , Silverberg J.I.
Published: March 2018

Background

Pemphigus and pemphigoid are blistering disorders associated with barrier disruption, immune dysregulation and use of immunosuppressing systemic therapy, all of which may predispose towards serious infections.

Objectives

To determine whether pemphigus and pemphigoid are associated with increased likelihood of serious infections and the impact of such infections on mortality and cost of care.

Methods

We analysed data from the 2002 to 2012 Nationwide Inpatient Sample, including a representative 20% sample of all hospitalizations in the US (total n = 72 108 077 adults).

Results

Overall, 54.6% (95% CI: 53.6–55.6%) and 50.4% (49.0–51.8%) of inpatients with either pemphigoid or pemphigus had a diagnosis of serious infection, respectively, compared with 25.4% (25.2–25.6%) in those without either diagnosis. In multivariable logistic regression models controlling for gender, age, race/ethnicity and insurance status, pemphigoid or pemphigus was associated with 26 or 21 of 48 infections examined, respectively. In particular, both pemphigoid and pemphigus were associated with higher odds of infections of the skin, bones, respiratory, gastrointestinal, genitourinary and central nervous system, septicaemia and antibiotic‐resistant infections. Pemphigus was also associated with aspergillus, pharyngitis and Pneumocystis Carinii pneumonia. Associations of any serious infection in both pemphigoid and pemphigus patients were older age, non‐White race, lower median household income, government or no insurance, higher number of chronic conditions, and those with a diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome, diabetes, cancer or autoimmune disease. The diagnosis of any serious infection vs. no infection was associated with increased inpatient mortality and costs in both pemphigoid (mortality: 7.85% vs. 2.84%; cost: $16 115 vs. $10 653) and pemphigus (mortality: 6.78% vs. 1.88%; cost: $17 707 vs. $11 545) inpatients (P < 0.0001 for all).

Conclusions

Adults with pemphigus or pemphigoid had increased cutaneous, respiratory, multi‐organ and systemic infections, which were associated with considerable inpatient mortality and cost burden. Moreover, there were significant clinical and healthcare disparities with respect to infections in patients with pemphigus or pemphigoid.
Enhanced mortality of Bemisia tabaci nymphs by Isaria javanica combined with sublethal doses of chemical insecticides
Authors: Santos Tássia Tuane M. dos , Quintela Eliane D. , Mascarin Gabriel M. , Santana Marcus Vinícius
Published: March 2018

The aim of this current study was to evaluate the mortality of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) nymphs by the combination between the entomopathogenic fungus Isaria javanica (Friedrichs & Bally) Samson & Hywel‐Jones and synthetic chemical insecticides. The bioefficacy of I. javanica and the insect growth regulators named spiromesifen and buprofezin was tested alone and in combination against B. tabaci nymphs under screenhouse conditions. The in vitro compatibility between these two control agents was previously assessed under laboratory conditions. The sublethal concentration (LC25) of these insecticides towards second‐instar nymphs was determined and then mixed with the fungal treatments to investigate the type of interaction. All I. javanica isolates at 5 × 107 conidia/ml inflicted nymphal mortality by up to 62.4%. The insecticides did not influence the germination and mycelial growth of the selected I. javanica isolate CG1282. In general, the insecticide–fungus combinations increased nymphal mortalities in comparison with their single counterparts. Combinations with the fungus and buprofezin or spiromesifen augmented nymphal mortality by 10% and 24%, respectively, in comparison with the fungus alone. Additive interaction was found with the combination of the I. javanica CG1282 at 1 × 106 conidia/ml and spiromesifen at 1.56 ppm, and additive and synergistic interactions were achieved with the fungus at 5 × 106 conidia/ml and spiromesifen at 3.12, 6.25 and 12.5 ppm. Additive interactions were also observed from mixtures of fungus at 5 × 106 and buprofezin at 3.12 and 6.25 ppm. Only combinations of I. javanica with spiromesifen reduced to some extent the mycosis on dead nymphs. The joint action of I. javanica with sublethal doses of these insecticides may be a promising tool to assist in the integrated management system for B. tabaci.
Rapid molecular methods for in‐field and laboratory identification of the yellow‐legged Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax)
Authors: Stainton K. , Hall J. , Budge G. E. , Boonham N. , Hodgetts J.
Published: March 2018

The yellow‐legged Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) is an invasive species that presents a threat to apiculture in Europe; first introduced into France in 2004, it has subsequently spread into neighbouring European countries. There is a risk of invasion and establishment in the UK, and in 2016, nests were found and destroyed in Alderney in the Channel Islands, and in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, illustrating a need for screening of suspect specimens so that invading hornets can be rapidly identified, and their nests destroyed. In this study, loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and real‐time PCR assays were developed to enable both in‐field and laboratory testing. Species‐specific identification assays and generic invertebrate control assays were developed. All the assays were validated according to the European Plant Protection Organisation standard PM 7/98. The assays were tested successfully against V. velutina nigrithorax obtained from France, Asia and the UK. Eight non‐target species, that were closely related or morphologically similar to the Asian hornet, gave negative results with the species‐specific assays, and positive results with the control assays. The assays could be used to detect target DNA at concentrations as low as 5 pg per reaction. LAMP was rapid, and cable of generating positive results within 10 min. Using simplified sample homogenization protocols that could be performed in the field, the LAMP assay was successful when tested against all developmental stages and nest samples, assisting with identification of samples that cannot be determined morphologically and allowing detection away from the laboratory. These assays provide a valuable tool for fast and reliable detection of this invasive species, offering the ability to identify damaged/incomplete specimens and immature life‐stages.
Islandinium minutum subsp. barbatum subsp. nov. (Dinoflagellata), a New Organic‐Walled Dinoflagellate Cyst from the Western Arctic: Morphology, Phylogenetic Position Based on SSU rDNA and LSU rDNA, and Distribution
Authors: Potvin Éric , Kim So‐Young , Yang Eun Jin , Head Martin J. , Kim Hyun‐cheol , Nam Seung‐Il , Yim Joung Han , Kang Sung‐Ho
Published: March 2018

A study of modern sediment from the Western Arctic has revealed the presence of a distinctive brown‐colored cyst with a spherical central body bearing unbranched processes that are usually solid with a small basal pericoel. Distinctive barbs project from some processes, and process tips are usually minutely expanded into conjoined barbs. The archeopyle is apical and saphopylic. This cyst corresponds to Islandinium? cezare morphotype 2 of Head et al. (2001, J. Quat. Sci., 16:621). Phylogenetic analyses based on the small and large subunit rRNA genes infer close relationship with Islandinium minutum, the type of which is that of the genus. Re‐examination of specimens of I. minutum reveals the presence of minute barbs on its processes, but differences with Islandinium? cezare morphotype 2 remain based on size, process distribution, and barb development. Furthermore, the internal transcribed spacer shows I. minutum to be distinct from this morphotype. On the basis of these small but discrete differences, we propose the new subspecies Islandinium minutum subsp. barbatum subsp. nov. Molecular sequencing of other cysts encountered, namely Echinidinium karaense, an unidentified flattened cyst, and “Polykrikos quadratus”, places them in the Monovela clade, the latter showing greater morphological variability than previously thought.
A QR code based tracing method for fresh pork quality in cold chain
Authors: Peng Yaoqi , Zhang Lingxian , Song Zhixing , Yan Jin , Li Xinxing , Li Zhenbo
Published: March 2018

Fresh pork is a meat that many people choose to eat in daily lives, and it is becoming more important to devise a method for ensuring the quality and safety of fresh pork. Combined with the meat quality of the cold chain and the environmental information collection program, this study presents a QR code based tracing method for a quality tracing system. This method includes a correction recognition test for the final design of the QR code. The results show that QR code can store large amounts of traceability information, with strong error correction capability, and can provide a great advantage in scanning recognition. In the process of consumption, consumers can easily obtain fresh pork quality information by scanning the QR code with a mobile phone, rather than having to choose a piece of meat to purchase based only on a visual observation of the meat.

Practical applications

In this study, the design of the temperature acquisition scheme was verified in SMEs (small and medium enterprises), the results show that the data transmission is stable. The generated QR codes were tested in some supermarkets, have strong error correction capability, and can meet the retroactive requirements. According to this research, when the damage to the traceability barcode is beyond the range of 30% before the barcode enters circulation, the barcode needs to be reprinted.
Effect of Gum Arabic‐polyvinyl alcohol films containing seed cover extract of Zanthoxylum rhetsa on shelf life of refrigerated ground chicken meat
Authors: Muppalla Shobita R. , Chawla S. P.
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to improve shelf life of ground chicken meat in chilled storage by employing active packaging incorporating seed cover extract (SCE) of Zanthoxylum rhetsa. The total phenolic and flavonoid content in SCE was estimated to be 194 and 44.5 mg/g, respectively, in terms of catechin equivalents. SCE scavenged free radicals, exhibited good reducing power, and high antioxidant activity coefficient. SCE was effective against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. The major phenolics compounds identified in SCE were catechin, vanillin, gallic acid, and ferulic acid. SCE was incorporated to get active films of Gum Arabic, polyvinyl alcohol, and sorbitol. Films had good mechanical and barrier properties. Ground chicken meat packed in normal films spoiled in less than 6 days whereas active packaging led to reduction in lipid peroxidation and improvement in shelf life up to 12 days at chilled condition.

Practical applications

Globally, tonnes of food get wasted annually at retail and consumer level due to lack of proper packaging and storage facilities. Meat is a highly perishable commodity and various strategies are used to preserve it for long time. Packaging and freezing are two important techniques used for this purpose. Freezing is energy intensive and conventional packaging using petroleum‐based polymers leads to burden on environment. Active packaging with the use of biodegradable polymers and natural preservatives is an emerging area of research in food industry. Zanthoxylum rhetsa is low cost spice and is rich in bioactive compounds. This can be used as the active component in biodegradable films that can extend the shelf life of the meat packed in it at chilled temperatures. Thus the burden on energy as well as petroleum resources can be minimized.
Empirical treatment of outpatients with gastroesophageal reflux disease with proton pump inhibitors: A survey of Chinese patients (the ENLIGHT Study)
Authors: Lu Bin , Zhang Ling , Wang Jiangbin , Wang Bangmao , Zou Xiaoping , Fei Guijun , Chen Dongfeng , Wang Xuehong , Wu Bin , Zou Duowu
Published: March 2018

Background and Aim

Empirical proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment is recommended as a diagnostic indicator for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and as a therapy for symptomatic control, with responses generally seen within 4 weeks. However, there are no real‐world data assessing the effectiveness of short‐term empirical treatment with PPIs in patients with GERD in China.

Methods

The ENLIGHT study was a multicenter, prospective, observational study conducted in China. The primary outcome was the overall response rate after 4 weeks' empirical treatment with PPIs. Adult patients aged between 18 and 65 years of age, with a gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire score of ≥ 8, prescribed empirical PPI treatment by their physicians and with no planned endoscopy were eligible to participate. Statistical analyses were primarily descriptive.

Results

Overall, 987 patients were eligible to participate and were included in the full analysis set (FAS); 707 patients were included in the per protocol set. In the FAS, esomeprazole was received by 57.1% of patients and was the most commonly used PPI. After 4‐week treatment, 71.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 67.9% to 74.2%) of patients were considered responders to PPI. The response rate at the end of 2‐week PPI treatment reached 57.0% (95% CI, 52.5% to 61.7%). The median time to response was 13 days (95% CI, 12 to 15). Response rates at 2 and 4 weeks of the per protocol set were similar to those of the FAS.

Conclusions

Short‐term empirical PPI treatment can provide an effective relief of GERD symptoms in most Chinese patients in real‐world practice.