bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Media and Mediation in the Eighteenth Century
Authors: McDowell Paula
Published: March 2017

This article begins by discussing seventeenth- and eighteenth-century notions of media, mediation, and communication. How did early modern notions of the “medium” and of “mediation” overlap with and differ from common understandings of these terms today? The second section provides an overview of media and mediation in the eighteenth century, heeding recent calls for a new history of mediation that includes not only what we now identify as communications media (e.g., print, voice, and script) but also new genres, protocols, opportunities, and infrastructures for communication. The penultimate section addresses eighteenth-century histories of mediation. Enlightenment authors increasingly conceptualized their era as an age in history defined by a particular set of communication practices and tools. The concluding section addresses the challenges and opportunities of the “media turn” in literary and cultural studies and the future of the history of media and mediation.
Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin and Recurrent Placenta-Mediated Pregnancy Complications: A Meta-analysis of Individual Patient Data From Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Rodger Marc A. , Gris Jean-Christophe , de Vries Johanna I. P. , Martinelli Ida , Rey Évelyne , Schleussner Ekkehard , Middeldorp Saskia , Kaaja Risto , Langlois Nicole J. , Ramsay Timothy , Mallick Ranjeeta , Bates Shannon M. , Abheiden Carolien N. H. , Perna Annalisa , Petroff David , de Jong Paulien , van Hoorn Marion E. , Bezemer P. Dick , Mayhew Alain D.
Published: March 2017

(Abstracted from Lancet 2016;388:2629–2641)

Placenta-mediated pregnancy complications include pre-eclampsia, birth of a small-for-gestational-age neonate, placental abruption, or late pregnancy loss and lead to maternal and fetal or neonatal morbidity and mortality. These complications have a high risk of recurring in subsequent pregnancies, and effective preventive measures are lacking.
Increasing Bending Stiffness of Antibiotic-impregnated Cement-covered Rod Constructs: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Marmor Meir , Lee Moses , Friedberg David , McDonald Erik
Published: March 2017

Introduction:

The use of antibiotic-impregnated cement-covered rods (ACR) has been reported for the treatment of posttraumatic osteomyelitis and infection. Early reports of ACRs described using a 3-mm guidewire as the central core of the rod; however, certain clinical scenarios may require a more rigid construct. We describe the principals and technique of using a thicker metal core to increase stiffness of the ACR.

A 40-Fr chest tube was filled with polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cement. Metal central rods (3 and 5.8 mm) were inserted before the cement cured. Bending stiffness was measured and compared with a conventional intramedullary nail.

Increasing the core diameter of ACR constructs resulted in increased bending stiffness, but the ACR remained significantly weaker than conventional nails. Given the elution characteristics of antibiotic cement, and the relatively short duration of use of these rods, the relative decrease in volume of cement is unlikely to influence antibacterial effectiveness of the ACR.

Purpose:

The use of ACRs has been reported for the treatment of posttraumatic osteomyelitis and infection. Early reports of antibiotic rods described using a 3-mm guidewire as the central core of the rod; however, certain clinical scenarios may require a more rigid construct. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of a thicker metal core to increase stiffness of the ACR construct.

Methods:

A 40-Fr chest tube was filled with PMMA cement and metal central rods were inserted before the cement cured. Central cores utilized were a 3-mm intramedullary guidewire and a 5.8-mm fully threaded ring external fixator strut. Bending stiffness was then measured along multiple lengths of each specimen and compared with the bending stiffness of the bare metal inserts (without cement) and a conventional intramedullary nail (10.5-mm titanium).

Results:

The mean bending stiffness was 4.96±0.67 N m2 for the 5.8-mm-core cement rod and 3.07±0.28 N m2 for the 3-mm-core cement rod (P=0.0039). The bending stiffness for the 3-mm guidewire, 5.8-mm rod, and the intramedullary nail alone were 0.87, 3.1, and 31.7 N m2, respectively.

Conclusions:

Increasing core diameter of ACR constructs will predictably increase their bending stiffness; however, ACRs will remain significantly weaker than conventional intramedullary nails. Given the elution characteristics of antibiotic cement, and the relatively short duration of use of these rods, the relative decrease in volume of cement is unlikely to influence the antibacterial effectiveness of the ACR.
Low milk supply and the pediatrician
Authors: Riddle Sarah W. , Nommsen-Rivers Laurie A.
Published: March 2017

Purpose of review

Human milk is the optimal food for human infants, and provides many diverse and well described benefits for both mother and infant. Low milk supply, whether perceived or actual, is one of the most common reasons why mothers stop breastfeeding. Breastfeeding mothers often seek out the guidance and support of their pediatrician in evaluating and resolving milk production concerns.

Recent findings

Recent evidence supports the importance of breastfeeding for maternal and child health in both developing and developed countries. Lack of knowledge regarding optimal breastfeeding management accounts for the large majority of low milk supply concerns, but there is emerging evidence that impaired glucose tolerance may contribute to intrinsic low milk supply.

Breastfeeding mother–infant dyads should be followed closely until lactation is well established and the infant is gaining well. Further research is needed to understand the physiologic contributors to low milk supply and to guide evidence-based interventions to optimize maternal success in reaching breastfeeding goals, particularly for women of poorer metabolic health.
Effects of Coffee Consumption on Gut Recovery After Surgery of Gynecological Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Güngördük Kemal , Özdemir İsa Aykut , Güngördük Özgü , Gülseren Varol , Gokçü Mehmet , Sanci Muzaffer
Published: March 2017

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017;216:145.e1–145.e7)

Postoperative paralytic ileus is a common and uncomfortable complication after elective abdominal surgery and is considered inevitable. The incidence of postoperative paralytic ileus among patients who undergo pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy (PPL) as treatment for gynecologic malignancies has been estimated to be 10.6% to 50%.
International Standards for Symphysis-Fundal Height Based on Serial Measurements From the Fetal Growth Longitudinal Study of the INTERGROWTH-21st Project: Prospective Cohort Study in Eight Countries
Authors: Papageorghiou Aris T. , Ohuma Eric O. , Gravett Michael G. , Hirst Jane , da Silveira Mariangela F. , Lambert Ann , Carvalho Maria , Jaffer Yasmin A. , Altman Douglas G. , Noble Julia A. , Bertino Enrico , Purwar Manorama , Pang Ruyan , Ismail Leila Cheikh , Victora Cesar , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Kennedy Stephen H. , Villar José
Published: March 2017

(Abstracted from BMJ 2016;355:i5662)

Fetal growth assessment is important to identify fetuses with abnormal fetal growth that are at increased risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Serial measurement of symphysis-fundal height (SFH) is the recommended, inexpensive, and first-level screening tool in both low- and high-risk pregnancies.
Modelling turbulent boundary layer flow over fractal-like multiscale terrain using large-eddy simulations and analytical tools
Authors: Yang X. I. A. , Meneveau C.
Published: March 2017

In recent years, there has been growing interest in large-eddy simulation (LES) modelling of atmospheric boundary layers interacting with arrays of wind turbines on complex terrain. However, such terrain typically contains geometric features and roughness elements reaching down to small scales that typically cannot be resolved numerically. Thus subgrid-scale models for the unresolved features of the bottom roughness are needed for LES. Such knowledge is also required to model the effects of the ground surface ‘underneath’ a wind farm. Here we adapt a dynamic approach to determine subgrid-scale roughness parametrizations and apply it for the case of rough surfaces composed of cuboidal elements with broad size distributions, containing many scales. We first investigate the flow response to ground roughness of a few scales. LES with the dynamic roughness model which accounts for the drag of unresolved roughness is shown to provide resolution-independent results for the mean velocity distribution. Moreover, we develop an analytical roughness model that accounts for the sheltering effects of large-scale on small-scale roughness elements. Taking into account the shading effect, constraints from fundamental conservation laws, and assumptions of geometric self-similarity, the analytical roughness model is shown to provide analytical predictions that agree well with roughness parameters determined from LES.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Wind energy in complex terrains’.
Dipolar extracellular potentials generated by axonal projections
Authors: McColgan Thomas , Liu Ji , Kuokkanen Paula T , Carr Catherine E , Wagner Hermann , Kempter Richard
Published: March 2017

Extracellular field potentials (EFPs) are an important source of information in neuroscience, but their physiological basis is in many cases still a matter of debate. Axonal sources are typically discounted in modeling and data analysis because their contributions are assumed to be negligible. Here, we show experimentally and theoretically that contributions of axons to EFPs can be significant. Modeling action potentials propagating along axons, we showed that EFPs were prominent in the presence of a terminal zone where axons branch and terminate in close succession, as found in many brain regions. Our models predicted a dipolar far field and a polarity reversal at the center of the terminal zone. We confirmed these predictions using EFPs from the barn owl auditory brainstem where we recorded in nucleus laminaris using a multielectrode array. These results demonstrate that axonal terminal zones produce EFPs with considerable amplitude and spatial reach.
Conducting the finale of DNA replication
Authors: Akopian David , Rape Michael
Published: March 2017

Anomalies in dismantling the machinery of DNA replication can compromise genome integrity and contribute to tumorigenesis and aging. In this issue of Genes & Development, Dewar and colleagues (pp. 275–290) identified an E3 ubiquitin ligase, CUL2LRR2, that modifies a subunit of the replicative CMG (Cdc45, minichromosome maintenance [MCM] subunits 2–7, and the GINS complex) helicase and triggers disassembly of the replication machinery. Their study offers critical insight into the mechanism of DNA replication termination while at the same time raising important questions for future research.
First principle analysis of Coandă Micro Air Vehicle aerodynamic forces for preliminary sizing
Authors: Djojodihardjo Harijono , Ahmed Riyadh Ibraheem , Abu Talib Abd Rahim , Mohd Rafie Azmin Shakrine
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reformulate the governing equations incorporating major variables and parameters for the design a Micro Air Vehicle (MAV), to meet the desired mission and design requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

Mathematical models for various spherical and cylindrical Coandă MAV configurations were rederived from first principles, and the performance measures were defined. To verify the theoretical prediction to a certain extent, a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulation for a Coandă MAV generic models was performed.

Findings

The major variables and parameters of Coandă MAV have been formulated into practical guidelines, which relate the lift (or thrust) produced for certain input variables, particularly the Coandă MAV jet momentum coefficient. The influences of the geometrical parameters are elaborated.

Research limitations/implications

The present analysis on Coandă jet-configured MAV is focused on the lift generation due to the Coandă jet effect through a meticulous analysis. The effects of viscosity, the Coandă jet thickness, the radius of curvature of the surface and the stability of Coandă jet are not considered and will be the subject of the following work.

Practical implications

The results obtained can be used for sizing in the preliminary design of Coandă MAVs.

Originality/value

Physical and mathematical models were developed which can describe the physical phenomena of the flow field near the Coandă MAV surfaces influenced by Coandă jet sheets and for obtaining a relationship between relevant variables and parameters to the lift of practical interest.
Experimental facilities for modal testing
Authors: de Barros Everaldo , Juliani Fernando , de Camargo Leandro Ribeiro
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The experimental modal analysis requires good knowledge of various engineering fields, such as mechanical vibrations, transducers used in vibration measurement, transducers and system calibration methods, data acquisition systems, digital signal processing and system identification. Test facilities constitute a key factor for improving the quality of the estimated modal model. This paper aims to describe the experimental facilities at the Institute of Aeronautics and Space (IAE) Modal Testing Laboratory in terms of associated instrumentation and data acquisition system, metrological aspects and computational resources. The discussion is completed with a practical application showing a ground vibration testing (GVT) of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

Design/methodology/approach

The experimental facilities were evaluated in a typical GVT, using three shakers in both vertical and horizontal excitations and 88 response measurement points. The global excitation method was used to excite all desired modes. The reliability of the experimental modal model was validated by an auto modal assurance criterion matrix for the measured modes of the structure.

Findings

The experimental facilities were successfully used for validating the dynamical characteristics of the UAV under testing.

Originality/value

The modal test facilities of the Modal Testing Laboratory at the IAE, the main research center of the Brazilian Air Force, are described in this paper.
Imperfect maintenance model for estimating aircraft fleet availability
Authors: Knezevic Aleksandar , Vasov Ljubisa , Vlacic Slavisa , Kostic Cedomir
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to define conditions under which improved availability of fleet of G-4 jet trainers is obtained, and optimization of intermediate-level maintenance through imperfect maintenance model application. This research has been conducted based on available knowledge, and experience gained by performing intermediate-level maintenance of Serbian Air Force aircrafts.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of the data collected from daily maintenance reports, and the analysis of maintenance technology and organization, was performed. Based on research results, a reliability study was performed. Implementation of imperfect maintenance with its models of maintenance policies (especially a quasi-renewal process and its treating of reliability and optimal maintenance) was proposed to define new maintenance parameters so that the greater level of availability could be achieved.

Findings

The proposed methodology can potentially be applied as a simple tool to estimate the present maintenance parameters and to quickly point out some deficiencies in the analyzed maintenance organization. Validation of this process was done by conducting a reliability case study of G-4 jet trainer fleet, and numerical computations of optimal maintenance policy.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology of the availability estimation when reliability parameters were not tracked by the maintenance organization, and optimization of intermediate-level maintenance, has so far been applied on G-4 jet trainers. Moreover, it can be potentially applied to other aircraft types.

Originality/value

Availability estimation and proposed optimization of intermediate maintenance is based on a survey of data for three years of aircraft fleet maintenance. It enables greater operational readiness (due to a military rationale) with possible cost reduction as a consequence but not as a goal.
“Don’t judge me”: narratives of living with FGM
Authors: Recchia Natasha , McGarry Julie
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to facilitate a participant led arts-based workshop for survivors of female genital mutilation (FGM) in order to explore their experiences and impact of FGM on health and wellbeing, and to use the artefacts to inform development of an e-learning resource.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilised a creative narrative approach which included the sharing of personal stories, the creation of pottery models and the sharing of artefacts. A narrative approach was chosen as the methodology for the study as narratives are now well established within qualitative research as a meaningful way in which the voices of participants take precedence over those of the researcher. Six women who are living with FGM agreed to take part.

Findings

The composition of the workshop essentially encompassed two main strands: the creation of a persona and sharing artefacts. These are described in detail with supplementary images included wherever appropriate. The authors have not attempted to present the findings of the workshop from the perspective of the researcher but have rather enabled the findings to speak for themselves.

Research limitations/implications

There is a paucity of studies which have explored women’s experiences of living with FGM and the impact on health and well-being. The findings suggest that there is further scope for research and practice development which examines the impact of education on professional’s approaches to FGM.

Originality/value

This study and the wider focus towards the impact of FGM beyond the physical or procedural aspects of FGM offer a contribution to the evolving evidence base in this field.
Information and reformation in KM systems: big data and strategic decision-making
Authors: Intezari Ali , Gressel Simone
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical framework of how knowledge management (KM) systems can facilitate the incorporation of big data into strategic decisions. Advanced analytics are becoming increasingly critical in making strategic decisions in any organization from the private to public sectors and from for-profit companies to not-for-profit organizations. Despite the growing importance of capturing, sharing and implementing people’s knowledge in organizations, it is still unclear how big data and the need for advanced analytics can inform and, if necessary, reform the design and implementation of KM systems.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this gap, a combined approach has been applied. The KM and data analysis systems implemented by companies were analyzed, and the analysis was complemented by a review of the extant literature.

Findings

Four types of data-based decisions and a set of ground rules are identified toward enabling KM systems to handle big data and advanced analytics.

Practical implications

The paper proposes a practical framework that takes into account the diverse combinations of data-based decisions. Suggestions are provided about how KM systems can be reformed to facilitate the incorporation of big data and advanced analytics into organizations’ strategic decision-making.

Originality/value

This is the first typology of data-based decision-making considering advanced analytics.
User entrepreneur business models in 3D printing
Authors: Holzmann Patrick , Breitenecker Robert J. , Soomro Aqeel A. , Schwarz Erich J.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

3D printing possesses certain characteristics that are beneficial for user entrepreneurship. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the business models of user entrepreneurs in the 3D printing industry. In addition, various business opportunities in 3D printing open to user entrepreneurs are classified according to their attractiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors review the literatures on user entrepreneurship and on business models. Data from eight user entrepreneurs in Europe and North America are analyzed, applying qualitative content analysis. Multiple correspondence analysis is used to analyze their respective business models.

Findings

User entrepreneurs in the 3D printing utilize a number of different business models, which show similarities in particular business model components. User entrepreneurs focus primarily on the combination of low opportunity exploitation cost and a large number of potential customers.

Research limitations/implications

Online business seems to be beneficial for user entrepreneurship in 3D printing. Policy makers can foster user entrepreneurship by expanding entrepreneurship education and lowering administrative barriers of business foundation. The results of this study are based on a small European and North American sample. Thus, they might not be applicable to other markets.

Originality/value

This is the first study of user entrepreneur business models in 3D printing and, thus, contributes to the literature on business models and on user entrepreneurship. In view of the novelty of the field, the business models identified in the study could serve as blueprints for prospective user entrepreneurs in 3D printing.
Detrimental effects of post-IPO corporate governance changes
Authors: Atinc Guclu , Kroll Mark , Walters Bruce
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The authors contend that immediately following the initial public offering (IPO), the new owners that replace the original ones are likely to request changes in two corporate governance mechanisms, board of directors and top management teams (TMTs). Following these alterations, the purpose of this paper is to propose that such changes will be detrimental for the performance of young entrepreneurial firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the post-IPO governance changes in young entrepreneurial firms. The sample consists of 185 companies that went public between 2001 and 2005. A hierarchical linear regression approach with the appropriate control variables is adopted to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results revealed that, following the changes in ownership structure post-IPO, changes are observed in one of the corporate governance mechanisms the authors considered, boards of directors, but not TMTs. Consistent with the general theme of this study, the authors also observed a negative impact of changes in boards of directors on subsequent firm performance; this was not the case with TMTs.

Research limitations/implications

Contrary to the fundamental contentions of agency theory, the results highlight the need for adopting a different approach for young entrepreneurial firms.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the importance of preserving the entrepreneurial efficacy of young entrepreneurial firms.

Originality/value

This paper challenges the fundamental contentions of agency theory in the case of young entrepreneurial firms. The results demonstrate that post-IPO shareholders’ interference with the governance mechanisms results in lower performance.
Returns to acquirers of listed and unlisted targets: an empirical study of Australian bidders
Authors: Nguyen Pascal , Rahman Nahid , Zhao Ruoyun
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the robustness of the listing effect in Australia, that is whether acquisitions of private firms create more value to the bidding firm’s shareholders than acquisitions of publicly listed firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyze the market reaction to the announcement of takeover bids initiated by Australian public firms on private and public targets over the period 1990-2011. The analysis controls for a wide range of bidder, deal and target country characteristics that are likely to correlate with the target’s listing status and acquirer abnormal returns. The authors also use a selection model to address the endogenous choice of the target’s listing status.

Findings

The results indicate that bidders experience significantly higher abnormal returns of about 1.7 per cent in the 11-day event window when the target is a private firm. The authors show that this result is broad-based and persistent. It does not appear to depend on whether the target is small or large; whether it is related or unrelated to the bidder’s industry; whether it is in the resources sector; and whether the transaction is domestic or cross-border. They find some evidence that bidder returns might be stronger for larger acquisitions, for unrelated targets, and in poor market conditions such as in the wake of the recent global financial crisis.

Research limitations/implications

The research would benefit from the inclusion of the bidding firm’s ownership and governance characteristics.

Practical implications

The results support the view that market frictions contribute to make private firms attractive targets.

Originality/value

The analysis confirms the pervasiveness of the listing effect in a market characterized by a lesser degree of competition, higher search costs and the significance of the natural resources sector.
Assessment of 2012 EULAR/ACR new classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica in Japanese patients diagnosed using Bird's criteria
Authors: Matsui Kiyoshi , Maruoka Momo , Yoshikawa Takahiro , Hashimoto Naoaki , Nogami Mika , Sekiguchi Masahiro , Azuma Naoto , Kitano Masayasu , Tsunoda Shinichiro , Sano Hajime
Published: March 2017

Aim

The 2012 European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR)/American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) were published in 2012. The present study aimed to assess the 2012 EULAR/ACR classification criteria for PMR in Japanese patients diagnosed with PMR using Bird's criteria.

Methods

The study included 75 patients diagnosed using Bird's criteria. The patients were divided into fulfilled and not‐fulfilled groups according to whether they met the 2012 EULAR/ACR classification criteria for PMR. The factors in the new criteria were morning stiffness duration > 45 min, hip pain or limited range of motion, absence of rheumatoid factor or anti‐citrullinated protein antibody, and absence of other joint involvement.

Results

Thirty‐two of the patients diagnosed with PMR using Bird's criteria met the new EULAR/ACR classification criteria, while the remaining 43 patients did not meet the new criteria. Among the factors, only morning stiffness duration > 45 min was an independent predictive factor.

Conclusions

A morning stiffness duration > 45 min is the only independent predictive factor for differentiating patients diagnosed according to the new 2012 EULAR/ACR classification criteria for PMR.
Characteristics of symptomatic men with testicular microlithiasis – A Danish cross‐sectional questionnaire study
Authors: Pedersen M. R. , Møller H. , Rafaelsen S. R. , Jørgensen M. M. B. , Osther P. J. , Vedsted P.
Published: March 2017

Testicular microlithiasis (TML) is an incidental finding at ultrasonography of the scrotum. A link between testicular microlithiasis and testicular cancer has been suggested. However, the majority of studies are retrospective using ultrasonography with minor data on health status and life style characteristics. Our objective was to investigate if lifestyle and health are associated with TML. In 2014, we conducted a self‐administered questionnaire survey including 1538 men, who all due to testicular/scrotal symptoms had an ultrasound investigation of the scrotum during 2004–2013. The men were divided into men with TML and men without. The 23‐items questionnaire included items on age, height, weight, lifestyle (alcohol consumptions, smoking habits, workload, exercise and food), previous diseases in the testicles, pain and consumption of analgesics. The prevalence of TML was 12.8%. Overall, lifestyle factors did not vary between men with or without TML. However, men with TML did consume more crisp than men without. Development of TML was not associated to classic life style factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking habits, or mothers smoking during pregnancy. Also, age and height could not be linked to presence of TML. We did find, however, that men with TML experienced less physical activity and consumed more crisp than men without TML. Since ingestion of crisps has potential carcinogenic effect (acrylamide), this finding needs confirmation in a separate study.
The Role of Children's Health in the Intergenerational Transmission of Economic Status
Authors: Aizer Anna
Published: March 2017

Intergenerational mobility is relatively low in the United States. Children who grow up in poverty are eight times more likely to live in poverty in adulthood than their counterparts who do not live in poverty. What is it about growing up in poverty that reduces the probability of economic success later in life? On average, children whose families live in poverty have lower levels of cognitive skills, noncognitive skills (e.g., behavior including perseverance and adaptability), and health, all of which contribute to earnings in adulthood. In this article, I examine the role children's health plays in intergenerational transmission of economic status from an economic perspective and in the context of a developed, high‐income country (the United States). Evidence suggests that the mechanisms by which parents’ income affects children's health include, but are not limited to, reduced access to health insurance and medical care, greater exposure to environmental toxins, inadequate nutrition, and greater family violence and stress. I conclude with evidence suggesting that public investments in children's health can reduce the intergenerational transmission of economic status and the inequality of the next generation in the United States, as well as in other less developed nations.
Effect of vonoprazan on the treatment of artificial gastric ulcers after endoscopic submucosal dissection: Prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tsuchiya Izumi , Kato Yuri , Tanida Emiko , Masui Yoshifumi , Kato Shingo , Nakajima Atsushi , Izumi Motoyoshi
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim

Proton pump inhibitors are effective for the treatment of gastric ulcers after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). However, the most excellent therapy is controversial. Vonoprazan, an active potassium‐competitive acid blocker, has a strong gastric acid secretion inhibitory effect, but its efficacy for the treatment of post‐ESD gastric ulcers is unclear. Herein, we aimed to determine the healing effect of vonoprazan on post‐ESD gastric ulcers.

Methods

We carried out a prospective randomized controlled trial examining 92 patients who had undergone ESD for the treatment of gastric neoplasms between April 2015 and June 2016 at Machida Municipal Hospital. Patients were treated with 20 mg/day vonoprazan (V group) or 20 mg/day esomeprazole (E group) for 8 weeks. We evaluated the 8‐week cure rate for artificial ulcers and any complications after ESD.

Results

A total of 80 patients (median age, 73.5 years; 71.3% male) were analyzed. Cure rate for the V group was significantly higher than that for the E group (94.9% [37/39] vs 78.0% [32/41], respectively; P = 0.049). In a multivariate analysis, only vonoprazan was correlated with ulcer healing (odds ratio = 6.33; 95% CI = 1.21–33.20; P = 0.029). Delayed bleeding was experienced only in the E group (7.3% [3/41]), but no significant difference compared with the V group was observed (P = 0.241).

Conclusion

Vonoprazan was significantly superior to esomeprazole for the healing of post‐ESD gastric ulcers and should be considered as a treatment of first choice.
Effects of once‐weekly semaglutide on appetite, energy intake, control of eating, food preference and body weight in subjects with obesity
Authors: Blundell John , Finlayson Graham , Axelsen Mads , Flint Anne , Gibbons Catherine , Kvist Trine , Hjerpsted Julie B.
Published: March 2017

Aim

The aim of this trial was to investigate the mechanism of action for body weight loss with semaglutide.

Materials and methods

This randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, two‐period crossover trial investigated the effects of 12 weeks of treatment with once‐weekly subcutaneous semaglutide, dose‐escalated to 1.0 mg, in 30 subjects with obesity. Ad libitum energy intake, ratings of appetite, thirst, nausea and well‐being, control of eating, food preference, resting metabolic rate, body weight and body composition were assessed.

Results

After a standardised breakfast, semaglutide, compared with placebo, led to a lower ad libitum energy intake during lunch (−1255 kJ;
P
 < .0001) and during the subsequent evening meal (
P
 = .0401) and snacks (
P
 = .0034), resulting in a 24% reduction in total energy intake across all ad libitum meals throughout the day (−3036 kJ;
P
 < .0001). Fasting overall appetite suppression scores were improved with semaglutide vs placebo, while nausea ratings were similar. Semaglutide was associated with less hunger and food cravings, better control of eating and a lower preference for high‐fat foods. Resting metabolic rate, adjusted for lean body mass, did not differ between treatments. Semaglutide led to a reduction from baseline in mean body weight of 5.0 kg, predominantly from body fat mass.

Conclusion

After 12 weeks of treatment, ad libitum energy intake was substantially lower with semaglutide vs placebo with a corresponding loss of body weight observed with semaglutide. In addition to reduced energy intake, likely mechanisms for semaglutide‐induced weight loss included less appetite and food cravings, better control of eating and lower relative preference for fatty, energy‐dense foods.

Video Abstract

A free Video Abstract to accompany this article is available at: https://player.vimeo.com/video/218478638.
Effect of historical land‐use and climate change on tree‐climate relationships in the upper Midwestern United States
Authors: Goring Simon J. , Williams John W.
Published: March 2017

Contemporary forest inventory data are widely used to understand environmental controls on tree species distributions and to construct models to project forest responses to climate change, but the stability and representativeness of contemporary tree‐climate relationships are poorly understood. We show that tree‐climate relationships for 15 tree genera in the upper MidwesternUShave significantly altered over the last two centuries due to historical land‐use and climate change. Realised niches have shifted towards higher minimum temperatures and higher rainfall. A new attribution method implicates both historical climate change and land‐use in these shifts, with the relative importance varying among genera and climate variables. Most climate/land‐use interactions are compounding, in which historical land‐use reinforces shifts in species‐climate relationships toward wetter distributions, or confounding, in which land‐use complicates shifts towards warmer distributions. Compounding interactions imply that contemporary‐based models of species distributions may underestimate species resilience to climate change.
Infundibular protein and RNA microarray analyses from affected and clinically non‐affected scalp in male androgenetic alopecia patients
Authors: Vogt Annika , Pfannes Eva K. B. , Fimmel Sabine , Hadam Sabrina , Andruck Annette , Kottner Jan , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike
Published: March 2017

Non‐invasive sample collection methods could facilitate clinical research on hair diseases. In an exploratory experimental study on six male volunteers with untreated androgenetic alopecia (AGA), Hamilton‐Norwood stage IIIv‐IV, skin surface and infundibular protein as well as RNA extracts from plucked hair follicles were analyzed from frontal skin, vertex and clinically unaffected occiput. Slightly increased levels of inflammatory markers were only found in AGA‐affected scalp skin and infundibulum, not in RNA from plucked hair follicles. RNA expression profiles point towards differential expression of genes involved in hair cycle regulation, hair keratin production, but also RNA methylation and ion channel regulation.
Autoantibodies of non‐inflammatory bullous pemphigoid hardly deplete type XVII collagen of keratinocytes
Authors: Imafuku Keisuke , Iwata Hiroaki , Kamaguchi Mayumi , Izumi Kentaro , Natsuga Ken , Ujiie Hideyuki , Nishie Wataru , Shimizu Hiroshi
Published: March 2017

Type XVII collagen (COL17) and the non‐collagenous 16A (NC16A) domain is regarded as the major pathogenic domains for bullous pemphigoid (BP). Some patients with BP have autoantibodies against parts of COL17 outside the NC16A domain (hereinafter the non‐NC16A domain) and show less inflammatory manifestations. There were no significant differences in titres and IgG subclasses between NC16A‐BP and non‐NC16A‐BP as determined by indirect immunofluorescent microscopy. The neutrophil activation capacities determined by ROS release did not differ between NC16A‐BP and non‐NC16A‐BP. However, NC16A‐BP IgG depleted COL17 in a dose‐dependent manner. Treatment with NC16A‐BP IgG, but not with non‐NC16A‐BP IgG, significantly decreased the adhesion strength. We speculate that the differences in clinical severity between NC16A‐BP and non‐NC16A‐BP relate to the degree of COL17 depletion.
UV adaptation: Pigmentation and protection against overexposure
Authors: de Gruijl Frank R.
Published: March 2017

The skin is known to adapt to UV exposures, that is become less sensitive to sunburn. Reported decreases in sensitivity vary widely from well over 10‐fold down to a negligible 10%. This appears to depend importantly on the UV irradiation spectrum to which the skin adapts and on the UV irradiation spectrum that is used to test the sensitivity. The sensitivity is conventionally and generally assessed by the reciprocal of the minimal erythema dose (MED): the UV dose causing a just perceptible reddening of the skin after 8‐24 hours. However, MED is much too subtle for everyday life: people will not notice a minimal reddening and commonly consider themselves sunburnt at considerably higher UV doses causing an intense reddening. Levels of adaptation of a well‐tanned skin may be substantially higher at these more intense levels of reddening than MED levels. This expectation is based on the fact that people with a constitutively coloured skin may show moderate differences in MED compared with fair‐skinned people but far less steep increases in reddening with overexposures to solar‐simulated radiation (SSR). UVA exposure is known to enhance pigmentation and may thus be important in protection against overexposure to SSR.
Genetic 3′UTR variation is associated with human pigmentation characteristics and sensitivity to sunlight
Authors: Hernando Barbara , Peña‐Chilet Maria , Ibarrola‐Villava Maider , Martin‐Gonzalez Manuel , Gomez‐Fernandez Cristina , Ribas Gloria , Martinez‐Cadenas Conrado
Published: March 2017

Sunlight exposure induces signalling pathways leading to the activation of melanin synthesis and tanning response. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can regulate the expression of genes involved in pigmentation pathways by binding to the complementary sequence in their 3′untranslated regions (3′UTRs). Therefore, 3′UTR SNPs are predicted to modify the ability of miRNAs to target genes, resulting in differential gene expression. In this study, we investigated the role in pigmentation and sun‐sensitivity traits, as well as in melanoma susceptibility, of 38 different 3′UTR SNPs from 38 pigmentation‐related genes. A total of 869 individuals of Spanish origin (526 melanoma cases and 343 controls) were analysed. The association of genotypic data with pigmentation traits was analysed via logistic regression. Web‐based tools for predicting the effect of genetic variants in microRNA‐binding sites in 3′UTR gene regions were also used. Seven 3′UTR SNPs showed a potential implication in melanoma risk phenotypes. This association is especially noticeable for two of them, rs2325813 in the MLPH gene and rs752107 in the WNT3A gene. These two SNPs were predicted to disrupt a miRNA‐binding site and to impact on miRNA‐mRNA interaction. To our knowledge, this is the first time that these two 3′UTR SNPs have been associated with sun‐sensitivity traits. We state the potential implication of these SNPs in human pigmentation and sensitivity to sunlight, possibly as a result of changes in the level of gene expression through the disruption of putative miRNA‐binding sites.
Haematoxylin and eosin staining identifies medium to large bacterial aggregates with a reliable specificity: A comparative analysis of follicular bacterial aggregates in axillary biopsies using peptide nucleic acid‐fluorescence in situ hybridization and haematoxylin and eosin staining
Authors: Ring Hans Christian , Theut Riis Peter , Bay Lene , Kallenbach Klaus , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Jemec Gregor B. E.
Published: March 2017

Although peptide nucleic acid (PNA), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) are the reference tools in the study of bacterial aggregates/biofilms, it may also be rather time‐consuming. This study aimed to investigate the sensitivity and specificity between bacterial aggregates identified by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining vs bacterial aggregates in corresponding PNA‐FISH samples. Axillary biopsies were obtained in 24 healthy controls. HE‐stained and PNA‐FISH samples were investigated using traditional light microscopy and CLSM, respectively. The data demonstrate that HE staining identifies large bacterial aggregates (>10 μm) with a sensitivity of 0.43 and specificity of 1. The methods, however, are not equivalent as demonstrated by a McNemar's test (P=.04). Where bacterial aggregates >10 μm in diameter, HE staining may offer a rapid and practical low‐cost tool to evaluate bacterial aggregates.
Periphyton density is similar on native and non‐native plant species
Authors: Grutters Bart M. C. , Gross Elisabeth M. , van Donk Ellen , Bakker Elisabeth S.
Published: March 2017

Non‐native plants increasingly dominate the vegetation in aquatic ecosystems and thrive in eutrophic conditions. In eutrophic conditions, submerged plants risk being overgrown by epiphytic algae; however, if non‐native plants are less susceptible to periphyton than natives, this would contribute to their dominance. Non‐native plants may differ from natives in their susceptibility to periphyton growth due to differences in nutrient release, allelopathy and architecture. Yet, there is mixed evidence for whether plants interact with periphyton growth through nutrient release and allelopathy, or whether plants are neutral so that only their architecture matters for periphyton growth.

We hypothesised that (1) non‐native submerged vascular plants support lower periphyton density than native species, (2) native and non‐native species are not neutral substrate for periphyton and interact with periphyton and (3) periphyton density increases with the plant structural complexity of plant species.

We conducted an experiment in a controlled climate chamber where we grew 11 aquatic plant species and an artificial plant analogue in monocultures in buckets. These buckets were inoculated with periphyton that was collected locally from plants and hard substrate. Of the 11 living species, seven are native to Europe and four are non‐native. The periphyton density on these plants was quantified after five weeks.

We found that the periphyton density did not differ between non‐native and native plants and was not related to plant complexity. Three living plant species supported lower periphyton densities than the artificial plant, one supported a higher periphyton density and the other plants supported similar densities. However, there was a strong negative correlation between plant growth and periphyton density.

We conclude that the periphyton density varies greatly among plant species, even when these were grown under similar conditions, but there was no indication that the interaction with periphyton differs between native and non‐native plant species. Hence, non‐native plants do not seem to benefit from reduced periphyton colonisation compared to native species. Instead, certain native and non‐native species tolerate eutrophic conditions well and as a consequence, they seem to host less periphyton than less tolerant species.
Reigniting compassion in healthcare: Manaakitia Reflective Rounds
Authors: Shah Shamsul , Lambrecht Ingo , O'Callaghan Anne
Published: March 2017

Background

The reported levels of staff stress and burnout at all levels of training and disciplines is significant and recognised to impact on the care of patients and families. We present an initiative to support staff at Auckland City Hospital based on the Schwartz Center Rounds.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of monthly case‐based, staff support reflective rounds to discuss complex emotional and psychosocial issues that arise in caring for patients and families.

Methods

At Auckland City Hospital, a pilot programme called Manaakitia Reflective Rounds was conducted between April 2014 and September 2015. These were facilitated 1‐h, monthly, case‐based, staff support groups to discuss complex emotional and psychosocial issues in caring for patients. Staff evaluations and feedback were collated.

Results

A total of 12 rounds was conducted exploring a range of challenging issues, from difficulty in achieving a patient's wish to die at home to coping with the ‘heart sink’ patient. There were 276 attendees in total, with an average attendance of 23 participants per round. A total of 218 evaluations was returned (79%) with rounds being rated as either exceptional or excellent by 87.5% of participants. Attendees reported positive benefits, such as gaining knowledge to help them care for patients (94%), working better with colleagues (87%) and gaining insight into how others think and feel in caring for patients (97%).

Attendees reported a sense of having a ‘shared experience’ with better understanding of each other's professional perspectives and acknowledgement of the limitations (practical and human) in caring for patients and families.

Conclusion

Evaluations of the rounds indicate a need for staff to have a safe and supportive space to explore the emotional aspects of their work. Staff particularly appeared to value having a ‘shared understanding’ with the recognition that they are ‘not alone’ when managing challenging situations.
Distinctive role of efferocytosis in dendritic cell maturation and migration in sterile or infectious conditions
Authors: Penteado Letícia de Aquino , Dejani Naiara Naiana , Verdan Felipe Fortino , Orlando Allan Botinhon , Niño Victoria Eugenia , Dias Fernanda De Nuzzi , Salina Ana Carolina Guerta , Medeiros Alexandra Ivo
Published: March 2017

Efferocytosis, or clearance of apoptotic cells (ACs), by dendritic cells (DCs) leads to immune response suppression and tolerance to self‐antigens. However, efferocytosis of infected apoptotic cells (IACs) leads to the production of a mixed pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokine milieu. We examined the DC phenotype and ability to migrate after phagocytosis of ACs or IACs and observed higher levels of CD86 and CCR7 expression in DCs, as well as enhanced migration capacity following efferocytosis of IACs. Interestingly, higher levels of interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐10 and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were also produced in this context. Blockage of IAC recognition led to an impaired maturation profile and PGE2 production, which may have contributed to reduced CD86 and CCR7 expression and migration capacity. These data contribute to the understanding of how efferocytosis of sterile or infected cells may regulate the adaptive immune response, although the precise role of PGE2 in this process requires further investigation.