bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mice with epidermal filaggrin deficiency show increased immune reactivity to nickel
Authors: Petersen Trine H. , Jee Mia H. , Gadsbøll Anne‐Sofie Ø. , Schmidt Jonas D. , Sloth Jens J. , Sonnenberg Gregory F. , Geisler Carsten , Thyssen Jacob P. , Bonefeld Charlotte M. 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundNickel allergy and dermatitis have been associated with filaggrin gene mutations in epidemiological studies, but the mechanisms mediating these associations are unknown.ObjectivesTo investigate whether filaggrin‐deficient flaky tail (ft/ft) mice show increased immune reactivity to nickel and elucidate the mechanisms mediating this.MethodsThe immune responses to nickel, 2,4‐dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB), cinnamal and p‐phenylenediamine were assessed in ft/ft and wild‐type (WT) mice. The amounts of nickel in the skin of ft/ft and WT mice were determined 20 hours after nickel exposure. The effect of blocking either the interleukin (IL)‐17A pathway or the IL‐1 pathway on the response to nickel in ft/ft mice was evaluated.ResultsIncreased responsiveness to nickel, DNFB and cinnamal was observed in ft/ft mice as compared with controls. A reduced amount of nickel was found in the skin of ft/ft mice as compared with WT mice, suggesting increased nickel absorption by the skin of ft/ft mice. Blocking either the IL‐17A pathway or the IL‐1 pathway reduced nickel responsiveness in ft/ft mice.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that the increased nickel responsiveness associated with epidermal filaggrin deficiency is mediated by a combination of increased nickel penetration and the steady‐state inflammation found in the skin of filaggrin‐deficient mice.
The impact of blood pressure variability and pulse pressure on graft survival and mortality after kidney transplantation
Authors: Pagonas Nikolaos , Markakis Konstantinos , Bauer Frederic , Seibert Felix S. , Seidel Max , Zidek Walter , Kykalos Stylianos , Sasko Benjamin , Klein Thomas , Babel Nina , Viebahn Richard , Westhoff Timm H. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundBlood pressure variability and pulse pressure are strong and independent predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the general population. So far, there are no data on the impact of blood pressure variability on mortality and graft survival after renal transplantation.MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of 877 patients who underwent kidney transplantation between 1997 and 2011 in two transplant centers in Germany (Berlin and Bochum) with a follow‐up of 12‐266 months. Visit‐to‐visit blood pressure variability over the first 12 months after transplantation (3 visits) and during the first 120 months after transplantation (7 visits) was calculated as the coefficient of variation (CV = standard deviation (SD)/mean blood pressure). Patient and graft survival was defined as composite endpoint.ResultsCumulative survival was significantly higher for those patients with lower systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure within both the first 12 months and the 120 months posttransplant. After adjustment of data for gender, age, body mass index, and coronary artery disease, the cumulative incidence of the combined endpoint did not significantly differ between patients with lower vs higher CV (12 months CV hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) = 0.90 (0.66‐1.23), P = 0.51; 120 months CV HR (95% CI) = 0.92 (0.67‐1.26), P = 0.60). A lower systolic blood pressure remained highly predictive for better survival in adjusted analyses.ConclusionVisit‐to‐visit blood pressure variability is not associated with mortality or graft loss after kidney transplantation in this retrospective analysis. In analogy to the general population, however, there is an inverse relationship of survival and pulse pressure as a marker of arterial stiffness.
Renewable Energy: The Trillion Dollar Opportunity for Chinese Overseas Investment
Authors: Cabré Miquel Muñoz , Gallagher Kevin P. , Li Zhongshu 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis paper compares the global flows of Chinese overseas investment in power plants with renewable energy investment potential embodied in “Nationally Determined Contributions.” With over US$1tn (671 GW) in Nationally Determined Contributions renewable energy investment potential in developing countries, we estimate the total level of power plant investments from China's policy banks and commercial entities since the early 2000s at US$216bn (158 GW). Although past investment has mainly been directed at fossil fuels and hydroelectric power, we argue that China is uniquely poised to lead renewable energy global investments for three reasons: (i) China's solar and wind industries are globally competitive; (ii) Chinese policy banks can give domestic firms advantages in financing global expansion; and (iii) renewable energy investment opportunities still exist in developing countries with less sovereign risk than for traditional energy investments. The Chinese government should provide special incentives for the policy banks to capitalize on these investment opportunities by deploying Chinese solar and wind technologies to Belt and Road countries and beyond.
Does “Internet Plus” Promote New Export Space for Firms? Evidence from China
Authors: Huang Xianhai , Song Xueyin , Hu Xinyue 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBased on data from the Chinese Industrial Enterprises Database, this paper investigates the effect of “Internet Plus” on the trade destination mix at the enterprise level. The analysis extends the classic dual margins to three dimensions: destination extensive, destination intensive and destination structural margins. The paper suggests that connecting to the internet not only raises Chinese firms' propensity to export, but also extends the destination extensive margin. In addition, Internet Plus could create a synergistic effect for internet‐enabled enterprises, that is, the development of the destination country's internet access benefits domestic firms' export participation. Finally, the paper finds that Internet Plus, rather than increasing the intensive or structural margins, leads to the transfer of exports to lower‐middle‐income countries and helps firms achieve competitiveness and thus increases their profit. The paper provides an explanatory mechanism and empirical evidence for firms' use of the internet to optimize export space.
The Ebb and Flow of Indigenous Rights Recognitions in Conservation Policy
Authors: Witter Rebecca , Satterfield Terre 
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACTAt the 2003 World Parks Congress, diverse conservation actors called for the end of exclusionary approaches to conservation; recognition of customary forms of environmental protection; and restoration of losses to indigenous peoples whose lands were incorporated into protected areas without meaningful consent. A primary means to achieving such reforms has been the development of rights‐based approaches to conservation, expressed at the time as the better integration of human rights into the planning and management of protected areas. This article reviews the suite of publications that followed the 2003 Congress, each identifying the need for rights‐based approaches in conservation. All reviewed materials seek to operationalize human rights into conservation planning, but the review indicates a pattern of support for, then retreat from, and even a possible ‘backlash’ against, indigenous rights. The review also finds important differences in organizations’ ideas about who is responsible for protecting the environment versus who is responsible for protecting human rights. The authors draw from these findings a caution against the subversion of the original intention of rights‐based conservation to definitions that more fully serve conservation organizations’ own ends, based on the presumption that benefits (including rights) from environmental protection will eventually trickle down to people.
Influences of visual attributes of food packaging on consumer preference and associations with taste and healthiness
Authors: Marques da Rosa Valentina , Spence Charles , Miletto Tonetto Leandro 
Published: November 2018

AbstractTwo experiments designed to investigate how the shape and colour of packaging, and product category, conjointly impact consumers’ product and packaging expectations are reported. In Experiment 1, the shape (rounded vs. angular) and visual appearance (greyscale, red‐to‐yellow and blue‐to‐green colour schemes) of the packaging were manipulated. Dependent measures were preference (willingness to purchase the product, how attention‐capturing the packaging is, and the pleasantness of the design) and any taste associations. In Experiment 2, shape (rounded vs. angular), colour (red‐to‐yellow vs. blue‐to‐green colour schemes), and product category (buttery vs. cereal cookies) were manipulated. In this case, the dependent measures were the perceived product healthiness and the preference of consumers. The results of Experiment 1 revealed that packaging colour influenced product preference. Red‐to‐yellow and blue‐to‐green colour schemes and angular packaging were preferred over greyscale and round packaging. Colour also influenced taste associations, while shape only influenced ratings of expected sweetness. In Experiment 2, packaging shape and product category influenced product preference. In particular, rounded packaging and the packaging of buttery cookies were preferred over angular packaging and the cereal cookies packaging. The healthiness of the product was rated higher for the rounded and red‐to‐yellow packaging containing a buttery product. Taken together, these results highlight the important role played by colour, shape, and category on the expectations and associations elicited by viewing product packaging.
Efferocytosis capacities of blood monocyte‐derived macrophages in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ballerie Alice , Lescoat Alain , Augagneur Yu , Lelong Marie , Morzadec Claudie , Cazalets Claire , Jouneau Stéphane , Fardel Olivier , Vernhet Laurent , Jégo Patrick , Lecureur Valérie 
Published: November 2018

AbstractA defect in the apoptotic cell clearance (efferocytosis) by phagocytic cells may participate in autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. The mechanisms leading to the emergence of autoimmunity in systemic sclerosis (SSc) are still to be determined. In this study, the efferocytosis capacities of blood monocyte‐derived macrophages (MDM) from patients with SSc were evaluated. Blood monocytes obtained from patients with SSc and healthy donors (HD) were differentiated in vitro into macrophages. The capacities of MDM to engulf CFSE+ apoptotic Jurkat human T lymphocytes were compared between SSc MDM and HD using flow cytometry. The expression of classical engulfing receptors in SSc MDM and HD MDM was also evaluated and their involvement in the modulation of efferocytosis was confirmed using a siRNA approach. The mean phagocytic index (PI) reflecting efferocytosis capacities of SSc MDM (PI = 19.3 ± 3.0; n = 21) was significantly decreased in comparison with the PI of HD MDM (PI = 35.9 ± 3.0; n = 31; P < 0.001). In comparison with HD, SSc MDM exhibited a downregulated expression of scavenger receptor (SR)‐B1, SR‐A1 and integrin β5 (ITGβ5). In HD MDM, the extinction of these receptors was followed by a reduction of efferocytosis only for the repression of ITGβ5, suggesting a possible selective role of this integrin in the impaired efferocytosis observed in SSc. As efferocytosis may be at the crossroads of inflammation, autoimmunity and fibrosis, in showing impaired efferocytosis capacities of blood MDM in SSc, our study offers new pathogenesis considerations for the involvement of macrophages in the autoimmune processes driving this disorder.
Influenza epidemics observed in primary care from 1984 to 2017 in France: A decrease in epidemic size over time
Authors: Souty Cécile , Amoros Philippe , Falchi Alessandra , Capai Lisandru , Bonmarin Isabelle , van der Werf Sylvie , Masse Shirley , Turbelin Clément , Rossignol Louise , Vilcu Ana‐Maria , Lévy‐Bruhl Daniel , Lina Bruno , Minodier Laëtitia , Dorléans Yves , Guerrisi Caroline , Hanslik Thomas , Blanchon Thierry 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundEpidemiological analysis of past influenza epidemics remains essential to understand the evolution of the disease and optimize control and prevention strategies. Here, we aimed to use data collected by a primary care surveillance system over the last three decades to study trends in influenza epidemics and describe epidemic profiles according to circulating influenza viruses.MethodsInfluenza‐like illness (ILI) weekly incidences were estimated using cases reported by general practitioners participating in the French Sentinelles network, between 1984 and 2017. Influenza epidemics were detected by applying a periodic regression to this time series. Epidemic (co‐)dominant influenza virus (sub)types were determined using French virology data.ResultsDuring the study period, 297 607 ILI cases were reported allowing the detection of 33 influenza epidemics. On average, seasonal epidemics lasted 9 weeks and affected 4.1% of the population (95% CI 3.5; 4.7). Mean age of cases was 29 years. Epidemic size decreased over time by ‐66 cases per 100 000 population per season on average (95% CI −132; −0.2, P value = 0.049) and epidemic height decreased by ‐15 cases per 100 000 (95% CI −28; −2, P value = 0.022). Epidemic duration appeared stable over time. Epidemics were mostly dominated by A(H3N2) (n = 17, 52%), associated with larger epidemic size, higher epidemic peak and older age of cases.ConclusionsThe declining trend in influenza epidemic size and height over the last 33 years might be related to several factors like increased vaccine coverage, hygiene improvements or changing in influenza viruses. However, further researches are needed to assess the impact of potential contributing factors to adapt influenza plans.
Antihypertensive therapy prescribing patterns and correlates of blood pressure control among hypertensive patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Magvanjav Oyunbileg , Cooper‐DeHoff Rhonda M. , McDonough Caitrin W. , Gong Yan , Segal Mark S. , Hogan William R. , Johnson Julie A. 
Published: November 2018

We used electronic health records (EHRs) data from 5658 ambulatory chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with hypertension and prescribed antihypertensive therapy to examine antihypertensive drug prescribing patterns, blood pressure (BP) control, and risk factors for resistant hypertension (RHTN) in a real‐world setting. Two‐thirds of CKD patients and three‐fourths of those with proteinuria were prescribed guideline‐recommended renoprotective agents including an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB); however, one‐third were not prescribed an ACEI or ARB. CKD patients, particularly those with stages 1‐2 CKD, who were prescribed regimens including beta‐blocker (BB) + diuretic or ACEI/ARB + BB + diuretic were more likely to have controlled BP (<140/90 mm Hg) compared to those prescribed other combinations. Risk factors for RHTN included African American race and major comorbidities. Clinicians may use these findings to tailor antihypertensive therapy to the needs of each patient, including providing CKD stage‐specific treatment, and better identify CKD patients at risk of RHTN.
Effect of intrauterine device insertion on Candida species in cervicovaginal specimen identified by polymerase chain reaction technic: A longitudinal study on Iranian women
Authors: Moradi Raheleh , Shariat Mamak , Moghaddam‐Banaem Lida 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAimTo assess the effects of copper T‐380‐A intrauterine device (IUD) insertion on Candida species in cervicovaginal specimen by a molecular method, polymerase chain reaction.MethodsThis is a longitudinal prospective study performed on 95 women attending Health Centers of Tehran, Iran in 2012, who selected copper T‐380‐A IUD for contraception and had no history of local or systemic antibiotics or antifungals use during the previous 2 weeks. Cervicovaginal specimens were twice collected and cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and CHROMagar Candida, before and 3 months after IUD insertion. Finally, a molecular method, PCR‐RFLP was performed for identification of Candida species. P‐values <0.05 were considered significant.ResultsThe mean age of participants was 28 ± 7.44 years. Positive Candida cultures were significantly increased 3 months after IUD insertion (25.3% vs 11.6%, P = 0.007). The most common identified species before and after IUD insertion, were Albicans, Glabrata and then both ‘Albicans & Glabrata’, respectively. The prevalence of Albicans and Glabrata decreased, while both ‘Albicans & Glabrata’ increased insignificantly.ConclusionThere was more than about fourfold increase in positive Candida cultures after IUD insertion. As the prevalence of simultaneous infection with both ‘Albicans & Glabrata’ species which are resistant to usual treatment, increased, it seems necessary to provide more intensive follow‐up care for IUD users.
Social Distance toward Syrian Refugees: The Role of Intergroup Anxiety in Facilitating Positive Relations
Authors: Koc Yasin , Anderson Joel R. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe number of asylum seekers and refugees across the world is rapidly increasing. Negative attitudes toward these groups are globally prevalent and typically hostile because most receiving country citizens perceive them to be a security threat and an economic burden. This paper aims to understand the antecedents of negative attitudes toward a large refugee group currently garnering a great deal of attention—Syrian refugees, and experimentally test ways to ameliorate negative attitudes. In Study 1 (N = 122), we investigated predictors of social distance—as a proxy for prejudice—and found right‐wing authoritarianism and intergroup anxiety to be significant predictors. In Study 2 (N = 162), we tested whether perceived acculturation orientation would predict social distance and found that Americans were less prejudiced toward Syrians who preferred to assimilate rather than integrate. Finally, in Study 3 (N = 153), we tested if a form of vicarious contact could reduce social distance via reduced intergroup anxiety; we found initial evidence for this mediation link. We discussed the potential for the vicarious contact intervention to foster positive intergroup relations and contribute to refugee wellbeing.
Ms1 RNA increases the amount of RNA polymerase in Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Šiková Michaela , Janoušková Martina , Ramaniuk Olga , Páleníková Petra , Pospíšil Jiří , Bartl Pavel , Suder Agnieszka , Pajer Petr , Kubičková Pavla , Pavliš Ota , Hradilová Miluše , Vítovská Dragana , Šanderová Hana , Převorovský Martin , Hnilicová Jarmila , Krásný Libor 
Published: November 2018

SummaryMs1 is a sRNA recently found in mycobacteria and several other actinobacterial species. Ms1 interacts with the RNA polymerase (RNAP) core devoid of sigma factors, which differs from 6S RNA that binds to RNAP holoenzymes containing the primary sigma factor. Here we show that Ms1 is the most abundant non‐rRNA transcript in stationary phase in Mycobacterium smegmatis. The accumulation of Ms1 stems from its high‐level synthesis combined with decreased degradation. We identify the Ms1 promoter, PMs1, and cis‐acting elements important for its activity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that PNPase (an RNase) contributes to the differential accumulation of Ms1 during growth. Then, by comparing the transcriptomes of wt and ΔMs1 strains from stationary phase, we reveal that Ms1 affects the intracellular level of RNAP. The absence of Ms1 results in decreased levels of the mRNAs encoding β and β′ subunits of RNAP, which is also reflected at the protein level. Thus, the ΔMs1 strain has a smaller pool of RNAPs available when the transcriptional demand increases. This contributes to the inability of the ΔMs1 strain to rapidly react to environmental changes during outgrowth from stationary phase.
Contribution of cell wall peroxidase‐ and NADPH oxidase‐derived reactive oxygen species to Alternaria brassicicola‐induced oxidative burst in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kámán‐Tóth Evelin , Dankó Tamás , Gullner Gábor , Bozsó Zoltán , Palkovics László , Pogány Miklós 
Published: November 2018

SummaryCell wall peroxidases and plasma membrane‐localized NADPH oxidases are considered to be the main sources of the apoplastic oxidative burst in plants attacked by microbial pathogens. In spite of this established doctrine, approaches attempting a comparative, side‐by‐side analysis of the functions of extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by the two enzymatic sources are scarce. Previously, we have reported the role of Arabidopsis NADPH oxidase RBOHD (respiratory burst oxidase homologue D) in plants challenged with the necrotrophic fungus Alternaria brassicicola. Here, we present results on the activity of apoplastic class III peroxidases PRX33 (At3g49110) and PRX34 (At3g49120) investigated in the same Arabidopsis–Alternaria pathosystem. ROS generated by Arabidopsis peroxidases PRX33 and PRX34 increase the necrotic symptoms and colonization success of A. brassicicola. In addition, the knockdown of PRX33 and PRX34 transcript levels leads to a reduced number of host cells showing an extracellular burst of ROS after inoculation with A. brassicicola. Our results also reveal an age‐dependent transcript distribution of ROS‐producing peroxidase and NADPH oxidase enzymes, and some potential new components of the RBOHD, PRX33 and PRX34 signalling networks.
High‐resolution impedance manometry parameters in the evaluation of esophageal function of non‐obstructive dysphagia patients
Authors: Singendonk Maartje J. , Lin Zhiyue , Scheerens Charlotte , Tack Jan , Carlson Dustin A. , Omari Taher I. , Pandolfino John E. , Rommel Nathalie 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundHigh‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) allows evaluation of esophageal bolus retention, flow, and pressurization. We explored novel HRIM measures and assessed their temporal relationship to dysphagia symptoms for boluses of different volume and consistency in non‐obstructive dysphagia (NOD) patients.MethodsThirty‐three NOD patients (n = 19 minor or no disorder of peristalsis (“Normal”) and n = 14 esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (“EGJOO”)) were evaluated with HRIM. Patients were administered 5 and 10 mL liquid, semisolid, and 2 and 4 cm solid boluses and indicated bolus perception during individual swallows using a 5‐point Likert scale. HRIM was analyzed to assess Chicago Classification and pressure flow metrics, esophageal impedance integral (EII) ratio, and bolus flow time (BFT).Key ResultsOverall, bolus perception increased with increasing bolus consistency (P < 0.001), but did not differ significantly between EGJOO and Normal patients. EGJOO patients had higher IRP4, higher levels of bolus residual (ie, EII ratio and IR), and restricted esophageal emptying. The results for linking semisolid bolus perception to semisolid‐derived measures revealed more biomechanically plausible and consistent patterns when compared to those derived for liquid boluses. In Normal patients, perception of boluses of heavier viscosity was related to higher bolus flow resistance during transport, whilst in EGJOO, perception was related to restriction of esophageal emptying.Conclusion & InferencesThese novel pressure‐impedance measures may aid in the evaluation of NOD patients by revealing abnormal motor patterns, which may explain symptom generation. Future studies are needed to evaluate which of these measures are worthy of calculation and to establish protocol settings that allow for their meaningful interpretation.