bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tolerability and efficacy of a medical device repairing emollient cream in adults with chronic hand dermatitis
Authors: Thouvenin Marie‐Dominique , Bacquey Adeline , Nocera Thérèse , Rossi Ana Beatris 
Published: September 2018

SummaryBackgroundEmollients are recommended for managing chronic hand dermatitis (CHD). Medical device repairing emollient creams (MDRECs) are suitable for treating CHD‐associated skin lesions, unlike most cosmetic emollient products that can only be used on healthy skin.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to examine the tolerability and benefit of a MDREC, Dexyane MeD®, in adults with CHD.MethodsIn an open‐label study, adults aged 18‐65 years with mild‐to‐moderate CHD were instructed to apply the MDREC on both hands twice daily for 3 weeks. Investigators assessed tolerability and CHD severity on days 1, 8, and 22. Subjects assessed CHD severity weekly and completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index on days 1, 8, and 22. Differences from baseline were compared by Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed‐rank test or paired t test. Satisfaction with the MDREC was assessed by subjects.ResultsForty subjects were included and completed the study. Tolerability was good to excellent for all subjects. Subjects and investigators reported decreased severity of CHD at days 8 and 22 compared with Day 1 (P < 0.001), and subjects reported decreased pain and pruritus (P < 0.001). Quality of life improved, and most subjects were satisfied with the MDREC's characteristics and application.ConclusionsThe MDREC was well tolerated and may help manage mild‐to‐moderate CHD.
An autologous protein gel for soft tissue augmentation: in vitro characterization and clinical evaluation
Authors: Fedyakova Elena , Pino Ander , Kogan Lidiya , Eganova Charusa , Troya María , Anitua Eduardo 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackgroundThe aging process affects all organs of the body, but the skin is the most visible indicator with a great psychosocial impact. As a consequence, many skin anti‐aging strategies have been developed to minimize, postpone, and even reverse the aging process. Growth factors have been widely studied in skin wound healing as these polypeptides play an essential role in the complex process of tissue regeneration. Recently, a novel 3D injectable gel based on the autologous technology platelet rich in growth factor has been described.ObjectivesIn this study, a comparison between hyaluronic acid (HA, the gold standard for skin rejuvenation), and this novel autologous formulation has been conducted.MethodsRheological and mechanical properties were determined. The in vitro biological capacity of both treatments on human dermal fibroblasts proliferation, migration, chemotaxis, and extracellular matrix synthesis was also assessed. Additionally, a clinical evaluation of the autologous platelet gel treatment was performed by macrophotographs, ultrasound analyses, and clinical and patient surveys.ResultsThe autologous gel outperformed the general biomechanical properties of HA and kept an optimal viscoelastic gel‐like behavior for soft tissue augmentation. Both formulations stimulated cell chemotaxis, migration, and type I collagen synthesis. The autologous gel induced a statistically higher cell proliferation. After the autologous formulation treatment, a soft tissue augmentation effect was also noticed along with an overall skin quality improvement in terms of hydration, elasticity, wrinkle reduction, and general satisfaction scores.ConclusionsThis novel injectable formulation has desirable mechanical and bioactive properties for 3D tissue regeneration and might offer a safe and effective treatment for depressed areas of the skin.
An Individual‐Differences Framework for Comparing Nonnative With Native Speakers: Perspectives From BLC Theory
Authors: Hulstijn Jan H. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThis article proposes basic (shared) and extended (nonshared) language cognition in native speakers as a function of two types of extralinguistic attributes: (a) degree of being multilingual and (b) variables related to amount and type of literacy experiences (e.g., level of education). This approach may throw new light on the question of whether bilinguals can attain complete or native proficiency in two (or more) languages and the question of whether both early and late second language (L2) learners can attain native levels of L2 proficiency. An adequate language acquisition theory should explain why some structures are and some other structures are not comprehended and produced by all native speakers and also describe the acquisition over time (development) of lexical‐grammatical structures comprehended or produced by all native speakers or only by some. It is argued that usage‐based linguistics stands a better chance of accomplishing this task than generative linguistics.
The influence of drug properties and host factors on delayed onset of symptoms in drug‐induced liver injury
Authors: Gonzalez‐Jimenez Andres , McEuen Kristin , Chen Minjun , Suzuki Ayako , Robles‐Diaz Mercedes , Medina‐Caliz Inmaculada , Bessone Fernando , Hernandez Nelia , Arrese Marco , Parana Raymundo , Lucena M. Isabel , Stephens Camilla , Andrade Raúl J. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackground & AimsMost patients with drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) manifest clinical symptoms while on therapy, while some patients manifest days or weeks after drug cessation (delayed onset). This challenges DILI causality assessment and diagnosis. Factors contributing to the delayed onset phenotype are currently unknown. We explored factors contributing to delayed onset of DILI by analysing culprit drug properties, host factors and their interactions in a large patient population from the Spanish DILI Registry.MethodsClinical information from 388 patients (69 presented delayed onset) and drug properties of 43 causative drugs (45 active ingredients) were analysed. A two‐tier regression‐based model was used to assess host/drug interactions affecting the probability of delayed onset.ResultsAntibacterial and anti‐inflammatory drugs accounted for the delayed onset cases. Drug property of <50% hepatic metabolism (odds ratio [OR] 11.06, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 4.4‐32.2, P = 0.0003), daily dose ≥1000 mg (OR: 2.77, 95% CI: 1.3‐6.1, P = 0.0063) and the absence of pre‐existing conditions in a patient (OR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.3‐4.9, P = 0.0043) were independently associated with delayed onset. The findings were consistent when externally validated using Latin American DILI Network cases (N = 131). Likewise, drug properties of mitochondrial liability and Pauling electronegativity were associated with delayed onset, but dependent on specific host factors such as age, sex and pre‐existing cardiac diseases.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that delayed onset, a specific DILI phenotype, is explained by complex interactions among drug properties and host factors and provided mechanistic hypotheses for future studies. These findings can help improve the diagnostic capability and causality assessment.
The World Health Organization Code and exclusive breastfeeding in China, India, and Vietnam
Authors: Robinson Holly , Buccini Gabriela , Curry Leslie , Perez‐Escamilla Rafael 
Published: September 2018

AbstractPromoting exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is a highly feasible and cost‐effective means of improving child health. Regulating the marketing of breastmilk substitutes is critical to protecting EBF. In 1981, the World Health Assembly adopted the World Health Organization International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the Code), prohibiting the unethical advertising and promotion of breastmilk substitutes. This comparative study aimed to (a) explore the relationships among Code enforcement and legislation, infant formula sales, and EBF in India, Vietnam, and China; (b) identify best practices for Code operationalization; and (c) identify pathways by which Code implementation may influence EBF. We conducted secondary descriptive analysis of available national‐level data and seven high level key informant interviews. Findings indicate that the implementation of the Code is a necessary but insufficient step alone to improve breastfeeding outcomes. Other enabling factors, such as adequate maternity leave, training on breastfeeding for health professionals, health systems strengthening through the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, and breastfeeding counselling for mothers, are needed. Several infant formula industry strategies with strong conflict of interest were identified as harmful to EBF. Transitioning breastfeeding programmes from donor‐led to government‐owned is essential for long‐term sustainability of Code implementation and enforcement. We conclude that the relationships among the Code, infant formula sales, and EBF in India, Vietnam, and China are dependent on countries' engagement with implementation strategies and the presence of other enabling factors.
Prevalence and predictors of exclusive breastfeeding among immigrant and Canadian‐born Chinese women
Authors: Dennis Cindy‐Lee , Brown Hilary K. , Chung‐Lee Leinic , Abbass‐Dick Jennifer , Shorey Shefaly , Marini Flavia , Brennenstuhl Sarah 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBreastfeeding is the optimal method for infant feeding, yet migrant women may be at risk for suboptimal exclusivity rates. In a cohort of immigrant and Canadian‐born Chinese women, our objectives were to (a) describe patterns and prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum; (b) identify risk and protective factors associated with exclusivity; and (c) examine potentially differential importance of these factors across this 6‐month period. This was a prospective study of 565 immigrants and Canadian‐born Chinese women (Toronto, Canada). Exclusive breastfeeding was measured at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum. Predictors comprised fixed (demographics, history of depression, immigrant status, prenatal breastfeeding classes, in‐hospital formula supplementation, baseline social support, and baseline acculturative stress) and time‐dependent (depression, anxiety, fatigue, and breastfeeding problems) variables. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and generalized linear mixed models, respectively, were undertaken to address the objectives. Patterns of breastfeeding practices included exclusive breastfeeding in all time points (26.8%) or none (32.9%) and moving from exclusive to nonexclusive (20.3%) or nonexclusive to exclusive breastfeeding (15.2%). Women less likely to breastfeed exclusively at 1, 3, or 6 months were those whose infants received in‐hospital formula supplementation. Exclusivity attrition was higher between 3 and 6 months than 1–3 months. Immigrant status and in‐hospital formula supplementation had a significant impact on exclusivity earlier in the postpartum period while breastfeeding problems were associated with decreased exclusivity across time. Proactive preventive efforts are need to maintain breastfeeding exclusivity especially between 3 and 6 months if women are to meet international breastfeeding recommendations.
A MADS‐box transcription factor regulates a central step in sporulation of the oomycete Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Leesutthiphonchai Wiphawee , Judelson Howard S. 
Published: September 2018

SummaryMADS‐box transcription factors play significant roles in eukaryotes, but have not yet been characterized in oomycetes. Here, we describe a MADS‐box protein from Phytophthora infestans, which causes late blight of potato. P. infestans and most other oomycetes express a single MADS‐box gene. PiMADS is not transcribed during vegetative growth, but is induced early during asexual sporulation. Its mRNA levels oscillate in response to light, which suppresses sporulation. The protein was not detected in nonsporulating mycelia, but was found in sporulating mycelia and spores. Both mRNA and protein levels decline upon spore germination. A similar expression pattern as well as nuclear localization was observed when the protein was expressed with a fluorescent tag from the native promoter. Gene silencing triggered by a construct expressing 478 nt of MADS sequences indicated that PiMADS is required for sporulation but not hyphal growth or plant colonization. A comparison of wild type to a silenced strain by RNA‐seq indicated that PiMADS regulates about 3000 sporulation‐associated genes, and acts before other genes previously shown to regulate sporulation. Analysis of the silenced strain also indicated that the native gene was not transcribed while the transgene was still expressed, which contradicts current models for homology‐dependent silencing in oomycetes.
Has the red sheep tick, Haemaphysalis punctata, recently expanded its range in England?
Authors: Medlock J. M. , Hansford K. M. , Vaux A. G. C. , Cull B. , Pietzsch M. E. , Gillingham E. L. , Johnson N. , Phipps L. P. 
Published: September 2018

Abstract.The red sheep tick, Haemaphysalis punctata (Ixodida: Ixodidae), has been reported as present in the U.K. for more than a century; however, very little has been written about its distribution. In recent years, numbers of detections of this tick species reported to the Public Health England (PHE) Tick Surveillance Scheme have increased. This rise in the number of records may be attributable to increased tick surveillance activities or to the increased distribution of this species of tick in parts of England. This paper reviews published reports of H. punctata and all data held by the Biological Records Centre and PHE, and summarizes a number of field studies conducted by PHE and the Animal and Plant Health Agency over the past 8 years. It would appear from the evidence presented here that H. punctata may be expanding its range across the eastern part of the South Downs National Park, where there have also been reports of this tick species biting humans. It is possible that the movement of sheep between grassland sites is facilitating this spread. Further studies that better elucidate the ecology of this tick and its possible role as a vector of human and veterinary diseases are now warranted.
Low‐carbohydrate diets for overweight and obesity: a systematic review of the systematic reviews
Authors: Churuangsuk C. , Kherouf M. , Combet E. , Lean M. 
Published: September 2018

SummaryLow‐carbohydrate diets are being widely recommended, but with apparently conflicting evidence. We have conducted a formal systematic review of the published systematic reviews of RCTs between low‐carbohydrate vs. control (low‐fat/energy‐restricted) diets in adults with overweight and obesity. In MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Knowledge and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, searched from inception to September 2017, we identified 12 systematic reviews, 10 with meta‐analyses. Differences in methods, study quality, weight change and citations of published systematic reviews were assessed by AMSTAR‐2. Review methods varied in definitions of low‐carbohydrate diet, databases searched and bias assessment. Overall review quality was high in two, moderate in three, critically low in seven. Among meta‐analyses, 4/5 with critically low quality showed low‐carbohydrate diet superiority for weight loss (0.7–4.0 kg), while high quality meta‐analyses reported little or no difference between diets. Greater numbers of participants correlated with smaller differences in weight loss (r = 0.73, p = 0.03). More citations correlated with lower review quality (rho = −0.9, p = 0.037), with larger differences in weight loss (rho = −0.9, p = 0.037), and with journal impact factor (rho = 1.0, p = 0.01). In conclusion, publication acceptance and citations appear to favour apparently larger effect sizes above methodological quality. Better quality reviews and RCTs are needed, before recommending low‐carbohydrate diets as preferred to other approaches for energy restriction.
IL4 gene VNTR polymorphism in chronic periodontitis in end‐stage renal disease patients
Authors: Ksiazek Katarzyna , Blaszczak Jerzy , Buraczynska Monika 
Published: September 2018

AbstractObjectiveInterleukin‐4 gene polymorphisms were found to be associated with periodontitis. The purpose of this case–control study was to evaluate association of IL4 VNTR polymorphism with periodontitis in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD).Subjects and methodsWe examined 180 ESRD patients with chronic periodontitis, 82 without CP and 180 healthy controls. Genomic DNA from all subjects was genotyped for the IL4 VNTR polymorphism by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).ResultsGenotype distribution in all groups followed Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies were observed between groups. The patient group had higher frequency of P1 allele than controls, with odds ratio for P1 allele 1.6 (95% CI 1.1–2.3) and P1P1 genotype 2.73 (95% CI 1.06–7.5). There were no differences in polymorphism distribution between ESRD patients without CP and controls. Periodontal disease was more severe in older patients (≥50 years). Similarly, patients with T2DM had more severe manifestation of CP than patients without diabetes (p = 0.01 for plaque index, p = 0.004 for bleeding index and p = 0.03 for gingival index).ConclusionOur findings suggest that VNTR polymorphism in IL4 gene might be a risk factor for chronic periodontitis in patients with ESRD.
Novel rare variations in IRF6 in subjects with non‐syndromic cleft lip and palate and dental agenesis
Authors: Neves Lucimara T. , Dionísio Thiago J. , Garbieri Thais F. , Parisi Viviane A. , Oliveira Fernanda V. , Oliveira Thais M. , Santos Carlos F. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractObjectiveSubjects with cleft lip and palate (CLP) present high prevalence of dental agenesis. Among candidate genes for these phenotypes is IRF6. However, genetic studies do not analyze dental agenesis as a phenotype associated with cleft. Therefore, we investigated the frequency of rare and novel variations in IRF6 in subjects with non‐syndromic unilateral cleft lip and palate (NSUCLP), with and without dental agenesis.Subjects and MethodsGenomic DNA samples of 100 subjects with NSUCLP with and without dental agenesis and 50 controls were sequenced. IRF6 mutational screening was conducted by direct sequencing.ResultsTen new and rare missense variations were identified, two in the group cleft with agenesis and eight in the group cleft without agenesis, and none were found in control group. In silico analysis revealed four variations as potentially deleterious, being two in the group with cleft and agenesis and two in the group with cleft without agenesis.ConclusionThe study identified novel IFR6 variations in subjects with NSUCLP with or without associated dental agenesis. The hypothesis of a higher frequency of deleterious variations in the subjects with cleft associated with dental agenesis, when compared to the group of cleft without agenesis and control without cleft, was not supported.
Outcomes of 200 consecutive, fluoroless atrial fibrillation ablations using a new technique
Authors: Liu Xiaoke , Palmer James 
Published: September 2018

AbstractIntroductionA technique was developed to eliminate radiation exposure for routine atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, to simplify the procedure and to achieve cost effectiveness. We here report the outcomes of this approach.MethodsTwo hundred consecutive AF ablations (55% paroxysmal) were performed by a single operator. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was achieved by antral ablation without left atrial anatomic mapping, guided by contact force sensing and intracardiac echocardiogram (ICE). All ablations were performed using three ipsilateral 8 French catheters (ICE, Lasso, and ablation). Eighty‐two percent of the patients underwent ablation of atrial flutter or non‐pulmonary vein triggers. All patients underwent provocative testing after PVI.ResultsNo fluoroscopy was used for the entire study. Two ablations were performed without x‐ray available due to unexpected equipment failure. The mean procedure time was 90.3 ± 17.7 (minutes) in patients who only required PVI and 106.2 ± 23.2 (minutes) for the entire cohort, with a success rate of 76% (mean follow‐up of 11 months). In contrast, the procedure time and success rate were 127.9 ± 38.2 (minutes) (P < 0.01) and 74%, respectively, for the last 50 standard ablations guided by fluoroscopy (without contact force sensing). Complications included one case of partial right phrenic nerve palsy and one case of right femoral artery pesudoaneurysm. Compared to our previous ablation approaches, the new method resulted in catheter savings of $2,168–$4,568/case.ConclusionThe new technique eliminated radiation exposure and shortened the procedure time without significant negative impact on safety or success rate. Substantial cost savings were also achieved by using a minimal number of mostly reprocessed catheters.
Characteristics of NSAID‐induced hypersensitivity reactions in childhood
Authors: Cavkaytar Ozlem , du Toit George , Caimmi Davide 
Published: September 2018

AbstractNon‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available as over‐the‐counter drugs, and they are commonly used in children for their antipyretic, analgesic, and anti‐inflammatory effects. NSAIDs are among the most frequently reported drugs associated with hypersensitivity reactions and even with anaphylaxis. A complete evaluation of the patients based on reported clinical manifestations, timing of the reaction, the presence of underlying disease, and reactions to other NSAIDs allows clinicians to stratify children with a history of reaction to NSAIDs. Although NSAID‐induced hypersensitivity reactions have mainly been investigated in adults, recent studies have aimed to explore their epidemiology in the pediatric population. This review will cover the current understanding of clinical manifestations, the risk factors, and the different phenotypes of NSAID‐induced hypersensitivity reactions with a comprehensive overview of the epidemiologic data from past to present and the practical approach to the management of NSAID hypersensitivity in children and adolescents.
Foliar water uptake: Processes, pathways, and integration into plant water budgets
Authors: Berry Z. Carter , Emery Nathan C. , Gotsch Sybil G. , Goldsmith Gregory R. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractNearly all plant families, represented across most major biomes, absorb water directly through their leaves. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as foliar water uptake. Recent studies have suggested that foliar water uptake provides a significant water subsidy that can influence both plant water and carbon balance across multiple spatial and temporal scales. Despite this, our mechanistic understanding of when, where, how, and to what end water is absorbed through leaf surfaces remains limited. We first review the evidence for the biophysical conditions necessary for foliar water uptake to occur, focusing on the plant and atmospheric water potentials necessary to create a gradient for water flow. We then consider the different pathways for uptake, as well as the potential fates of the water once inside the leaf. Given that one fate of water from foliar uptake is to increase leaf water potentials and contribute to the demands of transpiration, we also provide a quantitative synthesis of observed rates of change in leaf water potential and total fluxes of water into the leaf. Finally, we identify critical research themes that should be addressed to effectively incorporate foliar water uptake into traditional frameworks of plant water movement.