bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The differential effects of ertugliflozin on glucosuria and natriuresis biomarkers: Prespecified analyses from VERTIS CV
Authors: Cherney David Z. I. , Cosentino Francesco , Pratley Richard E. , Dagogo‐Jack Samuel , Frederich Robert , Maldonado Mario , Liu Jie , Pong Annpey , Liu Chih‐Chin , Cannon Christopher P. ,   VERTIS CV Investigators
Published: March 2022

Aims

This prespecified exploratory analyses from VERTIS CV (NCT01986881) aimed to assess the effects of the sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor ertugliflozin on glucosuria‐related (glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c], uric acid, body weight) and natriuresis‐related (blood pressure, haemoglobin, haematocrit, serum albumin) biomarkers according to kidney function risk category.

Materials and methods

Patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease were randomized to placebo, ertugliflozin 5 mg, or ertugliflozin 15 mg (1:1:1). Analyses compared placebo (n = 2747) versus ertugliflozin (pooled; n = 5499) on glucosuria‐ and natriuresis‐related biomarkers according to baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) subgroup and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease (KDIGO CKD) risk category.

Results

Patients were classified according to KDIGO CKD low‐ (49%), moderate‐ (32%) and high‐/very‐high‐risk categories (19%), and eGFR groups 1 (25%), 2 (53%) and 3 (19%). At Week 18, the high‐/very‐high‐risk category had a smaller placebo‐subtracted least squares mean (LSM) change from baseline (95% confidence interval) in HbA1c (−0.34 [−0.43, −0.25]) compared with the low‐ and moderate‐risk categories (−0.54 [−0.60, −0.49] and − 0.47 [−0.54, −0.40], respectively). This pattern was maintained throughout the study (Pinteraction = 0.0001). Similar patterns based on baseline eGFR G stage were observed. Placebo‐subtracted LSM changes from baseline in uric acid were lowest in the high‐/very‐high‐risk category at Weeks 6 and 18, but the pattern was not maintained after Week 156 (Pinteraction = 0.15). Effects of ertugliflozin on body weight and natriuresis‐related biomarkers did not differ across KDIGO CKD categories.

Conclusions

In VERTIS CV, ertugliflozin was associated with physiologically favourable changes in glucosuria‐ and natriuresis‐related biomarkers. Glycaemic efficacy of ertugliflozin was attenuated in patients with higher chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk. Effects on other biomarkers were consistent, regardless of CKD risk stage.
Comparative reconstruction of the predatory feeding structures of the polyphenic nematodePristionchus pacificus
Authors: Harry Clayton J. , Messar Sonia M. , Ragsdale Erik J.
Published: March 2022

Pristionchus pacificusis a nematode model for the developmental genetics of morphological polyphenism, especially at the level of individual cells. Morphological polyphenism in this species includes an evolutionary novelty, moveable teeth, which have enabled predatory feeding in this species and others in its family (Diplogastridae). From transmission electron micrographs of serial thin sections through an adult hermaphrodite ofP. pacificus, we three‐dimensionally reconstructed all epithelial and myoepithelial cells and syncytia, corresponding to 74 nuclei, of its face, mouth, and pharynx. We found that the epithelia that produce the predatory morphology ofP. pacificusare identical toCaenorhabditis elegansin the number of cell classes and nuclei. However, differences in cell form, spatial relationships, and nucleus position correlate with gross morphological differences fromC. elegansand outgroups. Moreover, we identified fine‐structural features, especially in the anteriormost pharyngeal muscles, that underlie the conspicuous, left‐right asymmetry that characterizes theP. pacificusfeeding apparatus. Our reconstruction provides an anatomical map for studying the genetics of polyphenism, feeding behavior, and the development of novel form in a satellite model toC. elegans.
Sex‐specific evolution of a Drosophila sensory system via interacting cis‐ and trans‐regulatory changes
Authors: Luecke David , Rice Gavin , Kopp Artyom
Published: March 2022

The evolution of gene expression via cis‐regulatory changes is well established as a major driver of phenotypic evolution. However, relatively little is known about the influence of enhancer architecture and intergenic interactions on regulatory evolution. We address this question by examining chemosensory system evolution in Drosophila. Drosophila prolongata males show a massively increased number of chemosensory bristles compared to females and males of sibling species. This increase is driven by sex‐specific transformation of ancestrally mechanosensory organs. Consistent with this phenotype, the Pox neuro transcription factor (Poxn), which specifies chemosensory bristle identity, shows expanded expression in D. prolongata males. Poxn expression is controlled by nonadditive interactions among widely dispersed enhancers. Although some D. prolongata Poxn enhancers show increased activity, the additive component of this increase is slight, suggesting that most changes in Poxn expression are due to epistatic interactions between Poxn enhancers and trans‐regulatory factors. Indeed, the expansion of D. prolongata Poxn enhancer activity is only observed in cells that express doublesex (dsx), the gene that controls sexual differentiation in Drosophila and also shows increased expression in D. prolongata males due to cis‐regulatory changes. Although expanded dsx expression may contribute to increased activity of D. prolongata Poxn enhancers, this interaction is not sufficient to explain the full expansion of Poxn expression, suggesting that cis–trans interactions between Poxn, dsx, and additional unknown genes are necessary to produce the derived D. prolongata phenotype. Overall, our results demonstrate the importance of epistatic gene interactions for evolution, particularly when pivotal genes have complex regulatory architecture.
Proteomic dissimilarities of primary microglia and BV2 cells under stimuli
Authors: Luan Wenhui , Li Min , Wu Chunmei , Shen Xiaoqian , Sun Zhongwen
Published: March 2022

Microglia are the static resident cells possessing the phagocytic properties in the central nervous system (CNS). In many relevant studies, the immortalized murine microglial cell line BV2 has been used as a tool in primary microglia (PM) relevant studies. Microglia participate in neuroinflammation by converting into M1‐ and M2‐like phenotypes. In this study, we established M1‐ and M2‐like phenotype response models by exposing PM and BV2 cells to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and interlukin‐4 (IL‐4), respectively, and discovered the proteomic differences between the two types of microglia. It turned out that the BV2 cell responses to LPS and IL‐4 were narrower and weaker than that of PM. In addition, irradiation, which has been shown to activate microglia and induces neuroinflammation, was also used as a treatment in this study. The results showed that BV2 cells have stronger capacity of DNA damage repair. Besides, irradiation had a negative effect on the regulation of KEGG pathways such as proteasome, ribosome, oxidative phosphorylation and TCA cycle in both cells. Furthermore, the KEGG pathways including cell cycle and DNA replication (significantly downregulated), and antigen processing and presentation and FC γ R mediated phagocytosis (significantly up‐regulated) were only found in irradiated PM. These data demonstrate that PM is more fragile to irradiation. Results in this study indicate that BV2 cells only partially model PM, and thus, using BV2 in microglia related studies should be carefully considered.
The Airbus bribery scandal: A collective myopia perspective
Authors: Boakye Derrick , Siaw Daniel , Sarpong David
Published: March 2022

Drawing on collective myopia as a lens, we explore the infamous Airbus bribery scandal to show how the executives of the global aircraft manufacturer, through their actions and behaviours, institutionalised the payment of bribes to secure contracts. Data for the inquiry consist of publicly available court‐approved documents, company website and internal emails, and newspaper articles on the scandal. Unpacking the bribery scheme operated by Airbus, we found that bribing of foreign government officials and airline executives to secure contracts was part and parcel of the firm's organising strategy. In this regard, the organising practices of Airbus actively encouraged employees to break its own bribery compliance policies which they employed as smokescreens to cover their illegal activities. Building on our findings, we developed a collective myopic‐bribery framework outlining how the collective myopia in organising drove the bribery activities at Airbus. The implications of the findings for theory and practice are outlined.
Chronic vestibular syndromes in the elderly: Presbyvestibulopathy—an isolated clinical entity?
Authors: Müller Katharina Johanna , Becker‐Bense Sandra , Strobl Ralf , Grill Eva , Dieterich Marianne
Published: March 2022

Background and purpose

Recently, the Classification Committee of the Bárány Society defined the new syndrome of "presbyvestibulopathy" for elderly patients with chronic vestibular symptoms due to a mild bilateral peripheral vestibular hypofunction. However, control of stance and gait requires multiple functioning systems, for example, the somatosensory, visual, auditory, musculoskeletal, and cardio‐ and cerebrovascular systems. The aim of this cross‐sectional database‐driven study was to evaluate the frequency and characteristics of presbyvestibulopathy and additional gait‐relevant comorbidities.

Methods

In total, 707 patients aged ≥60 years with chronic vertigo/dizziness were admitted to our tertiary hospital and received detailed neurological, neuro‐orthoptic, and laboratory audiovestibular examination. Medical history, comorbidities, functional impairment, and quality of life (Dizziness Handicap Inventory [DHI], European Quality of Life Scale, Vestibular Activities and Participation) were compared between presbyvestibulopathy and bilateral vestibulopathy in a matched‐paired study.

Results

In 95.5% of patients, complaints were better accounted for by another vestibular, neurological, cardiac, or psychiatric disease, and 32 patients (4.5%) met the diagnostic criteria for presbyvestibulopathy. Of these 32 patients, the majority showed further relevant comorbidities in other sensorimotor systems. Only one patient of 707 had “isolated” presbyvestibulopathy (0.14%). The mean total DHI scores indicated lower moderate impairment in presbyvestibulopathy than in bilateral vestibulopathy (40.6 vs. 49.0), which was confirmed by significant differences in the matched‐paired analysis (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Isolated presbyvestibulopathy is a very rare entity. It is regularly accompanied by other multisensory dysfunctions. These results indicate a potential role of mild vestibular hypofunction as a cofactor in multifactorial impairment. Thus, patients should be treated in an interdisciplinary setting with an awareness of diverse comorbidities.
Linking AI supply chain strength to sustainable development and innovation: A country‐level analysis
Authors: Wang Hao
Published: March 2022

To help enterprises improve their sustainable development as well as the competition ability in their supply chain, a research is conducted on the efficiency of the supply chain embedded with artificial intelligence (AI) and issues in sustainable development. At first, the present work determines the connection between efficiency of the supply chain with the environmental performance. Then, it illustrates how the efficiency of the AI supply chain influences the environment of enterprises. Next, an evaluation is made on the influence of AI supply chain efficiency on the social sustainable development. In the empirical analysis, the data of Global Competitiveness Report and Environmental Performance Index Report from 2008 to 2017 are collected. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis are used to determine the relationship between AI supply chain efficiency and sustainable development and innovation. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMCC) has been computed to ascertain if there are significant bivariate relationships between the variables of interest. There are two components of reducing waste and consumption pressures that are significantly and positively correlated with AI supply chain efficiency. These are ecological footprint per capita (r = .662, p = .000) and waste recycling rates (r = .631, p = .000). The present work identifies the connection between AI supply chain efficiency and sustainable development and innovation. Moreover, the AI supply chain promotes technological innovation among enterprises and the sustainable development of enterprises themselves.
Development of a general bioluminescent activity assay for peptide ligases
Authors: Zhang Cong‐Hui , Shao Xiao‐Xia , Wang Xin‐Bo , Shou Li‐Li , Liu Ya‐Li , Xu Zeng‐Guang , Guo Zhan‐Yun
Published: March 2022

In recent years, some peptide ligases have been identified, such as bacterial sortases and certain plant asparaginyl or prolyl endopeptidases. Peptide ligases have wide applications in protein labelling and cyclic peptide synthesis. To characterize various known peptide ligases or identify new ones, we propose a general bioluminescent activity assay via the genetic fusion of a recognition motif of peptide ligase(s) to the C‐terminus of an inactive large NanoLuc fragment (LgBiT) and the chemical introduction of a nucleophilic motif preferred by the peptide ligase(s) to the N‐terminus of the low‐affinity SmBiT complementation tag. After the inactive ligation version LgBiT protein was ligated with the low‐affinity ligation version SmBiT tag by the expected peptide ligase(s), its luciferase activity would be restored and could be quantified sensitively according to the measured bioluminescence. In the present study, we first validated the bioluminescent activity assay using bacterial sortase A and plant‐derived butelase‐1. Subsequently, we screened novel peptide ligases from crude extracts of selected plants using two LgBiT‐SmBiT ligation pairs. Among 80 common higher plants, we identified that five of them likely express asparaginyl endopeptidase‐type peptide ligase and four of them likely express prolyl endopeptidase‐type peptide ligase, suggesting that peptide ligases are not so rare in higher plants and more of them await discovery. The present bioluminescent activity assay is ultrasensitive, convenient for use, and resistant to protease interference, and thus would have wide applications for characterizing known peptide ligases or screening new ones from various sources in future studies.
Price asymmetries in the US airline industry
Authors: Jiang Yi , Que Tingting , Yu Miaomiao
Published: March 2022

We document price asymmetries in the US airline industry. We find evidence that the average airfare increases in response to rising fuel cost but does not decrease in response to declining fuel cost. In searching for the cause of price asymmetries, we find that common ownership, measured by overlapping institutional investors, is associated with greater price asymmetry in the airline industry. To mitigate endogeneity concerns, we exploit the variation in common ownership induced by the financial institution mergers and conduct a difference‐in‐differences test to establish the causal effects of common ownership on price asymmetry in the airline industry. In addition, airlines in highly concentrated markets exhibit more price asymmetries than those in low concentration markets. Our results support focal price tacit collusion as an important determinant of asymmetric pricing. Furthermore, first‐class airfares are shown to decrease more slowly than economy‐class airfares in response to fuel cost decreases, which supports consumer search as the mechanism driving asymmetric pricing.
Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure of the genus Vicia (Vicia L.) using simple sequence repeat markers
Authors: Sun Wei‐Hong , Wu Fei‐Fei , Cong Lili , Jin Mei‐Yan , Wang Xian‐Guo
Published: March 2022

The genetic diversity of the Vicia (Vicia L.) genus was analyzed using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. A total of 201 sampled individuals from 12 Vicia were assayed to study the genetic diversity and polymorphisms using 12 simple sequence repeat markers; 115 alleles were identified. The average observed heterozygosity (Ho) and the average expected heterozygosity (He) were 0.4283 and 0.6941, respectively. The polymorphic information content (PIC) varied from 0.8739 (V81) to 0.9579 (V97), with a mean of 0.9033, indicating that the markers were highly informative. Moreover, cluster and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) divided the 12 species into three main clusters. Structure analysis and PCoA of Vicia narbonensis and Vicia tibetica agreed well with the cluster analysis results, and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) results revealed that 89% genetic variation was observed within the population and 11% was among the population. These results clarify the genetic diversity and population structure of the Vicia, providing useful information for understanding genetic variability and establishing a foundation for future breeding programs and genetic improvement.
Impact of first COVID‐19 lockdown on paediatric and adult haemophilia patients treated in a French Haemophilia Comprehensive Care Centre
Authors: Volot Fabienne , Soudry‐Faure Agnes , Callegarin Anamaria , Ksiazek Eléa , Delienne Stephanie , Cottin Yves , Maynadié Marc , Boulin Mathieu
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has created an unprecedented global health crisis.

Aim

To investigate the impact of the 1st COVID‐19 lockdown on haemophilia patients in terms of symptoms, management, medication adherence, mental health and lifestyle behaviours.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional phone survey using a two‐part questionnaire was conducted in haemophilia patients (adults and children) followed‐up in a French Haemophilia Comprehensive Care Centre between May 5, 2020 and June 2, 2020 (CLEO CD study: NCT04390126).

Results

Among 284 haemophilia A or B patients with FVIII or FIX < 40% contacted for the study, 239 (84%) including 183 adults and 56 children participated to the survey. In 81% of children and 78% of adults, bleeding episodes remained unchanged or decreased. Medication adherence was 82.0% in adults and 98.2% in children. Non‐adherence concerned haemostatic agents in six patients and analgesics in three. Overall, 67% of adults and 71% of children felt as good as before lockdown. In both adults and children, the three major changes in lifestyle behaviours were: increase in screen time (49% and 57%), decrease in physical activity (43% and 48%), and weight gain (32% and 27%), respectively.

Conclusions

Encouraging results were observed in terms of haemophilia symptoms, medication adherence, and mental health. Conversely, a negative impact was observed on lifestyle behaviours in a cohort of French haemophilia patients during the 1st lockdown.
A feeling for history
Authors: Lipartito Kenneth
Published: March 2022

Thomas Piketty argues that economists need to more seriously engage with history to understand inequality. In his two books on capitalism, Piketty does just that. But what type of history? This essay argues that Piketty, following the example of the Annales School and Braudel's The Mediterranean, has produced a powerful “descriptive” history, a still underappreciated form of work that is often incorrectly contrasted with analytical history. Piketty's insights stem from the power of description in telling us “what was the case,” as Allan Megill argues, and thus precedes causal explanation. When it comes to change over time, Piketty follows the model of eventful temporality that William Sewell has proposed. In contrast to positivist social science, which is built around deep constants over time, Piketty understands that the forces of history subject even seemingly stable structures to change. For this reason, he also believes it is possible to overcome the deep inequalities that have long existed in capitalism.
Potential correlation of the hardness of CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 glasses with melting behavior
Authors: Lee Hyojin , Carty William M.
Published: March 2022

It is proposed that the hardness of aluminosilicate glasses correlates with the melting temperature as predicted by the phase diagram. To evaluate this hypothesis, a broad range of CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 compositions was evaluated, verifying the glass formation region, and allowing for a systematic comparison of Vickers indentation hardness with melting temperature. Candidate glass forming compositions were restricted to the normal glass formation region (SiO2 > CaO) and ranging from SiO2:CaO ratios of 1:1 to 9:1 and Al2O3:CaO ratios ranging from .2:1.0 to 1.3:1.0. Glass forming compositions were X‐ray amorphous. The correlation of hardness was nonlinear but showed reasonable correlation with the melting behavior, with the lowest hardness glass obtained for the eutectic composition. The maximum hardness was obtained in the narrow glass chemistry range of 1.0:1.0:1.5 to 1.0:1.2:1.5 (CaO:Al2O3:SiO2) in the vicinity of anorthite (CaO·Al2O3·2SiO2).
A novel polysaccharide prepared from Chrysanthemum morifolium cv. Fubaiju tea and its emulsifying properties
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Kexin , Chen Maobin , Fang Shangling , Zhen Da , Cao Jinghua , Wu Zhengqi , Zhang Ke
Published: March 2022

In this study, a novel chrysanthemum polysaccharide (CP) was obtained and investigated from Chrysanthemum morifolium tea in Hubei province, China. Molecular characterisation and emulsifying properties of the CP were elucidated. The effects of different factors, including storage time, metal ions, pH value and heat treatment, were studied on the stability of emulsion. Results showed that the mean particle diameter (MPD) (d32) varied from 5.54 to 0.49 μm with the polysaccharide concentration ranging from 0.5wt% to 3.0wt%. The MPD (d32) of emulsions stabilised by chrysanthemum tea polysaccharide (ECP) was smaller than that of GA at 2wt%, and the MPD (d32) of ECP remained stable with no stratification occurred at 25 °C for 10 days. ECP also showed good stability under acidic conditions (3.0–7.0). With increase of Na+ and Ca2+ concentration, MPD(d32) and zeta potential values raised significantly, from 2.24 to 7.24 μm and from −40.52 to −35.35 mV respectively. After high‐temperature heat treatment, MPD (d32) and zeta potential showed no significant change, indicating ECP presented good storage stability. In conclusion, CP helped stabilised emulsions that could be used as a natural emulsifier for future application.
Sourdough on quinoa and buckwheat gluten‐free breads: Evaluation of autochthonous starter fermentation on bread nutritional and technological properties
Authors: Lancetti Romina Paola , Salvucci Emiliano , Paesani Candela , Pérez Gabriela Teresa , Sciarini Lorena Susana
Published: March 2022

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of two autochthonous strains of lactic acid bacteria as sourdough (SD) starters on gluten‐free bread technological quality and in vitro starch hydrolysis and antioxidant activity. Two strains of Limosilactobacillus fermentum isolated from buckwheat (BW) and quinoa flours were used. SDs were prepared from wholegrain quinoa or BW flours. Bread technological properties, total polyphenol content and in vitro antioxidant activity and starch hydrolysis and dialysability were assessed. Specific bread volumes were between 2.61 and 2.76 cm3 g−1. Breads with quinoa‐based SD had overall higher technological quality than breads made with BW SDs, shown by a softer, well‐aerated crumb, with an opener crumb structure and larger air area. Crumb firming during storage was reduced up to 29% when quinoa SD was used, and up to 42% when BW SD was added. Quinoa breads showed higher polyphenols and FRAP values, whereas BW breads had significantly higher ABTS values. Total starch hydrolysis and dialysability were significantly reduced when SD was used. Starch hydrolysis was reduced up to 42% and 25% when quinoa and BW SD were used, respectively. SD application produced breads with higher technological quality and modified in vitro starch hydrolysis and antioxidant capacity. Even though these effects seemed to be influenced by pH, a biological effect was also observed.
Improving gelling properties of myofibrillar proteins incorporating with cellulose micro/nanofibres
Authors: Wang Peng , Li Yan , Qu Yujiao , Wang Baowei , Sun Jingxin , Miao Chunwei , Huang Ming , Huang He , Zhang Congxiang
Published: March 2022

The effects of cellulose microfibres (CMFs, Average size: 100 ± 5 μm) and cellulose nanofibres (CNFs, Average size: 60 ± 3 nm) on the properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) gels from duck breast meat were studied. The results demonstrated that CMFs and CNFs were mostly connected to MP by non‐covalent bonds, the diffusion and cross‐linking of MP molecules was promoted, and a denser and more complete gel network was formed. With the increases of CMFs and CNFs concentration (0–10%), the hardness was increased by 13.15% and 19.78% for CMFs10% and CNFs10% gels, respectively, and the elasticity was increased by 40% and 80%, respectively. At the same concentration (0–10%), the increase in gel hardness, viscoelasticity and immobilised water content was greater in the CNFs‐MP group than in the CMFs‐MP group. The CNFs‐MP group had a tighter gel network, and CNFs had a better potential to improve the gelation performance of MP.
Prediction of significant renal function decline after open, laparoscopic, and robotic partial nephrectomy: External validation of the Martini’s nomogram on the RECORD2 project cohort
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Mari Andrea , Tafuri Alessandro , Tellini Riccardo , Capitanio Umberto , Gontero Paolo , Grosso Antonio Andrea , Li Marzi Vincenzo , Longo Nicola , Porpiglia Francesco , Porreca Angelo , Rocco Bernardo , Simeone Claudio , Schiavina Riccardo , Schips Luigi , Siracusano Salvatore , Terrone Carlo , Ficarra Vincenzo , Carini Marco , Minervini Andrea
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Martini et al. developed a nomogram to predict significant (>25%) renal function loss after robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy and identified four risk categories. We aimed to externally validate Martini’s nomogram on a large, national, multi‐institutional data set including open, laparoscopic, and robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy.

Methods

Data of 2584 patients treated with partial nephrectomy for renal masses at 26 urological Italian centers (RECORD2 project) were collected. Renal function was assessed at baseline, on third postoperative day, and then at 6, 12, 24, and 48 months postoperatively. Multivariable models accounting for variables included in the Martini’s nomogram were applied to each approach predicting renal function loss at all the specific timeframes.

Results

Multivariable models showed high area under the curve for robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy at 6‐ and 12‐month (87.3% and 83.6%) and for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (83.2% and 75.4%), whereas area under the curves were lower in open partial nephrectomy (78.4% and 75.2%). The predictive ability of the model decreased in all the surgical approaches at 48 months from surgery. Each Martini risk group showed an increasing percentage of patients developing a significant renal function reduction in the open, laparoscopic and robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy group, as well as an increased probability to develop a significant estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction in the considered time cutoffs, although the predictive ability of the classes was <70% at 48 months of follow‐up.

Conclusions

Martini's nomogram is a valid tool for predicting the decline in renal function at 6 and 12 months after robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy, whereas it showed a lower performance at longer follow‐up and in patients treated with open approach at all these time cutoffs.
Erectile dysfunction in young patients and elderly patients by sexual encounter profile: A comparative study
Authors: Yamagishi Motoki , Ogushi Yuta , Niikura Ayana , Ohta Tomoka , Ichimura Yuki , Hashimoto Yu , Kurokawa Ippei , Sugishita Hiroo , Tanifuji Satoru , Imamura Yuichiro , Shimoyama Hideaki , Hayashi Keiichiro , Ishikawa Kimiyasu , Ohta Michiya , Sasaki Haruaki , Fukagai Takashi
Published: March 2022

Objective

Demand for erectile dysfunction treatments has increased not only in elderly patients but also in young patients. Reports indicate that frequent causes of erectile dysfunction in Japan are organic disorders in elderly patients and psychogenetic disorders in young patients.

Methods

We defined patients under the age of 40 as young erectile dysfunction patients, and those over 65 as elderly erectile dysfunction patients. We divided these two groups and conducted a retrospective comparative study based on medical questionnaires. We selected 215 cases of patients under the age of 40, and 176 cases of patients over the age of 65, and created a group of young patients and a group of elderly patients. We implemented the erectile hardness score, Sexual Health Inventory for Men, and sexual encounter profile questions 2 and 3 as the patient’s daily clinical journal.

Results

The median age of young patients was 36 years, and that of elderly patients was 70 years. With respect to Sexual Health Inventory for Men, the average score was a significantly higher score in the young patients (9.26 vs 7.10, P < 0.001). Concerning erectile hardness score, young patients showed significantly higher scores in erectile hardness score (3.15 vs 2.06, P < 0.001). In terms of sexual encounter profile question 2, 50.9% of young patients responded “yes,” but 24.3% of elderly patients responded, thus indicating a significantly higher score in young patients. In terms of sexual encounter profile question 3, 6.1% of young patients responded “yes,” and 0.7% of elderly patients responded “yes,” indicating a significantly higher in young patients.

Conclusions

The results showed that many young patients with erectile dysfunction were able to perform insertion, but were unable to maintain erection.
A real‐world experience of atrioventricular synchronous pacing with leadless ventricular pacemakers
Authors: Kowlgi Gurukripa N. , Tseng Andrew S. , Tempel Nathan D. , Henrich Mark J. , Venkatachalam Kalpathi L. , Scott Luis , Shen Win‐Kuang , Deshmukh Abhishek J. , Madhavan Malini , Lee Hon‐Chi , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Friedman Paul A. , Cha Yong‐Mei , Mulpuru Siva K.
Published: March 2022

Aims

The MicraTM transcatheter pacing system (TPS) (Medtronic) is the only leadless pacemaker that promotes atrioventricular (AV) synchrony via accelerometer‐based atrial sensing. Data regarding the real‐world experience with this novel system are scarce. We sought to characterize patients undergoing MicraTM‐AV implants, describe percentage AV synchrony achieved, and analyze the causes for suboptimal AV synchrony.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, electronic medical records from 56 consecutive patients undergoing MicraTM‐AV implants at the Mayo Clinic sites in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona with a minimum follow‐up of 3 months were reviewed. Demographic data, comorbidities, echocardiographic data, and clinical outcomes were compared among patients with and without atrial synchronous ventricular pacing (AsVP) ≥ 70%.

Results

Sixty‐five percent of patients achieved AsVP ≥ 70%. Patients with adequate AsVP had smaller body mass indices, a lower proportion of congestive heart failure, and prior cardiac surgery. Echocardiographic parameters and procedural characteristics were similar across the two groups. Active device troubleshooting was associated with higher AsVP. The likely reasons for low AsVP were small A4‐wave amplitude, high ventricular pacing burden, and inadequate device reprogramming. Importantly, in patients with low AsVP, subjective clinical worsening was not noted during follow‐up.

Conclusion

With the increasing popularity of leadless pacemakers, it is paramount for device implanting teams to be familiar with common predictors of AV synchrony and troubleshooting with MicraTM‐AV devices.
Assessment and prediction of flood hazards using standardized precipitation index—A case study of eThekwini metropolitan area
Authors: Olanrewaju Caroline C. , Reddy Maliga
Published: March 2022

Flood is known to be the leading cause of natural disasters globally leaving disastrous and devastating damages in its wake. Flood risk and their time of occurrence is usually difficult to monitor and predict without appropriate tools for continuous monitoring. Extreme and frequent rainfall is one of the major causes of flood disasters. Assessment of flood hazards and its subsequent analysis using the standardized precipitation index (SPI) is very effective in the prediction of flood risk with the strength of the SPI being the use of rainfall as the only input variable. The SPI is found to be valuable in prediction of meteorological and hydrological floods such as flash floods, groundwater floods and dam burst. The knowledge of the occurrence of these flooding events can be very beneficial in preventing extensive damages to property, infrastructure, agriculture, and loss of life. The aim of this study is to assess flood hazard in eThekwini metropolitan area by examining the trend of flood events from 1985 to 2016 by the use of the SPI and its potential to predict flood risk in the study area. The results show that SPI properly explains the development of the conditions leading up to the occurrence of floods events in the analyzed period. Thus, is indispensable in the assessment of flood risk leading to an accurate prediction. The knowledge of the pattern and trends obtained from the SPI analysis is valuable to decision‐makers for efficient flood risk management plans in the promotion of preventive actions for mitigating the impacts of floods.
Potential impacts of failure of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on downstream countries
Authors: Mahmoud Mohamed Rami , Fahmy Hussam , Garcia Luis A.
Published: March 2022

This study assesses the potential downstream impacts in the event of a flood due to failure, either structural or operational, of the Grand Ethiopian renaissance dam (GERD). The following two failure scenarios were modeled as part of this study: Dam Break (DB) and MisGuided Dam Operation (MGDO) as a result of a false flood signature. The DB scenario shows that 40% of the intensively cultivated Gezira Plain would be inundated with average water depths of more than 10 m, resulting in catastrophic loss of highly productive farmlands, livestock, inhabitants, and infrastructure. This scenario did not model damage further downstream since for this magnitude flood it will require another flood routing model given the more complex geometry downstream of the Gezira Plain. In the MGDO scenario flood flows are lower and would have no impact on the Gezira Plain but would reach the High Aswan Dam (HAD) and fill it to its maximum allowable capacity for two and a half months and it would require emergency releases for more than 5 months. The required emergency releases from the HAD are expected to create significant flooding downstream. To accommodate the potential of extra releases from the GERD during flood events the operational rules for the HAD should be modified. However, providing more flood buffer at the HAD will limit the live capacity that is currently used for securing downstream flow requirements during drought periods. One of the expected impacts of increasing the flood buffer would be a reduction of the HAD's contribution to Egypt's GDP. Based on the results of this study the operational rules for the GERD and the HAD should be evaluated and possibly modified.
Acro‐ischemic lesions in COVID‐19 patients: A case series
Authors: Ozbey Rafet , Algan Mehmet Fatih
Published: March 2022

COVID‐19 is a systemic disease characterized by vascular damage, increased inflammation, and hypercoagulability. Acral ischemic lesions occur as a result of increased inflammation and cutaneous thrombosis. Skin lesions can sometimes be the only symptom of COVID‐19. In this respect, recognizing acro‐ischemic lesions, which are skin lesions, may help in the early diagnosis of the disease and in predicting the prognosis. In patients with skin lesions without typical symptoms, the diagnosis of COVID‐19 should be kept in mind. Herein, we describe five patients affected by COVID‐19 which developed acro‐ischemic lesions.
A Simple Rule is Born: How CEOs Distill Heuristics
Authors: Atanasiu Radu , Ruotsalainen Riku , N. Khapova Svetlana
Published: March 2022

Managerial heuristics play an important role in decision‐making and positively contribute to strategy, innovation, organizational learning, and even the survival of a firm. Little is known, though, about the process through which heuristics emerge. Following a grounded theory approach, we develop a process model of how managers create and develop heuristics from experience. The 4‐step model – dissonancing, realizing, crystallizing, and organizing – captures the sequence of cognitive schemata that start with a flawed assumption, give rise to heuristics that tend to be born in pairs, and end with mature and shared heuristics. With these findings, we contribute to the literature on heuristics by offering a model for the process of their emergence, a view on how feelings initiate, guide, and strengthen this process, and a description of the role played by the environment, enriching the ecological rationality perspective.
Effect of product properties and context on the perception of sweetness and liking: A case study with butter cookies
Authors: Romeo‐Arroyo Elena , Mora María , Pazos Nahuel , Deba‐Rementeria Shuyana , Vázquez‐Araújo Laura
Published: March 2022

Consumption context has been shown to significantly contribute to food acceptance, probably because of affecting food attributes' perception. The present study investigated the influence of multisensory reformulation on the acceptance and perceived sweetness of butter cookies in two contexts (Central Location Test, CLT vs. Home Use Test, HUT). The objective was to determine whether the use of some natural aromas could trigger a sweet‐taste‐like emotional response in a confectionery product, and if consumption in a real context could aid in masking the reformulation. Results showed that a 40% reduction in sugar content did not affect overall liking in the at‐home‐context (HUT), unless a “low in sugar” message was shown in the sample. Reformulation was perceived in the CLT: the “sugar‐reduced” sample was less liked, but the “Sugar‐reduced+vanilla” sample was as liked as the original sample. These results demonstrated that a multisensory approach could contribute to reformulation even when perceived by consumers.

Practical Applications

The insights collected during this research sum to the understanding of the relationship among sweet stimuli‐context‐perception and could be used for industry to reformulate and reduce sugar content in specific bakery products. A multisensory approach could be a useful approach to reformulate sweet products, because acceptance has been shown to be kept even in controlled and focused contexts. Labeling with a “low in sugar” message would not be recommended unless other messages related to taste or flavor are included. In addition, results contribute to the general understanding of sweet products perception and consumption, useful information for the design of healthy food eating environments and to promote healthy food choices among for the general population.
Incidence of hepatopathies in dogs administered zonisamide orally: A retrospective study of 384 cases
Authors: Smith Tess K. , Cameron Starr , Trepanier Lauren A.
Published: March 2022

Background

Acute hepatopathy secondary to administration of zonisamide has been reported in 2 dogs, but overall incidence of hepatopathy is unknown.

Objective

To characterize the incidence of hepatopathy in dogs administered zonisamide PO.

Animals

Three hundred eighty‐four dogs administered zonisamide PO.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective study. Medical records were searched for dogs prescribed zonisamide PO and which had follow‐up for at least 3 months (acute exposure) and >3 months (chronic exposure). Reported clinical signs, physical examination findings, and serum biochemical panels were reviewed for possible hepatotoxicosis. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and albumin concentration were documented for all available cases.

Results

Acute clinical hepatopathy was found in 2 of 384 treated dogs (0.52%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06‐1.9) after 13‐16 days of zonisamide treatment. One additional dog had elevated serum ALT activity with no clinical signs. Of these 3 dogs, 2 recovered after administration of zonisamide was stopped, and 1 was euthanized because of liver failure. Of the 117 cases chronically administered zonisamide, 10 had an increase in ALP, 6 had an increase in ALT, and 1 had hypoalbuminemia. No clinical signs of liver disease were noted in dogs chronically treated with zonisamide (median, 20 months; range, 5‐94 months).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Acute, potentially life‐threatening hepatopathy associated with oral administration of zonisamide to dogs is estimated to occur in less than 1% of dogs and was observed in the first 3 weeks of treatment. Subclinical abnormalities in ALT and ALP activity were noted in <10% of dogs during chronic administration of zonisamide, with no clinical signs of liver disease noted.
Aligning small indigenous fish species (SIS) in policy and management for enhanced food security and nutrition: The case of the Kenyan Lake Victoria Omena fishery
Authors: Aura Christopher Mulanda , Owiti Horace , Nyamweya Chrisphine , Odoli Cyprian O. , Obuya Julia Akinyi , Ogari Zachary , Njiru James M. , Van der Knaap Martin
Published: March 2022

Fisheries governance uses policy and statutory documents to improve governance on fish ecology, harvesting, trade and consumption by identifying and addressing gaps regarding inefficiencies, inequity and post‐harvest losses. The current study examines existing policies and institutional documents on fisheries, health and trade to assess the level of inclusion of small indigenous fish species (SIS), especially Omena, as a means of guiding governance interventions for sustained livelihoods of fishing communities in Lake Victoria. A content‐analysis review was conducted on all the fisheries and nutritional policy documents related to Lake Victoria fishery to ascertain the need for their integration into fisheries governance. From the scoring scale, where zero (0) implies no integration and three (3) implies high integration, the study results indicated very low levels of integration across health, fisheries and trade relating to small fish species. Further, the management plans and regulations/guidelines exhibited a relatively higher level of integration than did policies and laws. There is need for a more targeted approach for streamlining the existing policy documents to realize the untapped potential contribution of SIS towards food and nutritional security.
U‐Pb dating of zircon and monazite from the uplifted Variscan crystalline basement of the Ries impact crater
Authors: Tartèse Romain , Endley Stanley , Joy Katherine H.
Published: March 2022

Impact crater central peaks and peak ring complexes are important exploration targets for future missions to other planetary bodies, because they provide access to material uplifted from lower crustal levels. Material exposed there could also provide chronological constraints on crater formation events. Therefore, it is essential to understand if uplifted peak material preserves the chronological records of igneous and metamorphic protolith crustal rocks, or if such records are reset during impact events. To investigate this issue, we collected shocked gneiss and granite samples from uplifted crystalline basement megablocks in the 24 km diameter Ries impact crater in Germany, which is dated at ~14.8 Ma. Petrographic observations, electron beam imaging, and Raman spectroscopy suggest that these samples record the peak pressures of ~10–15 GPa. In situ U‐Pb dating shows that monazite U‐Pb systematics have not been affected by the Ries impact, as gneisses and granites yielded monazite U‐Pb dates of ~370 and 330 Ma, consistent with known Variscan metamorphic and magmatic events. The U‐Pb systematics of some zircon grains yielded U‐Pb dates of approximately 5–10 Ma, which is younger than the age of the Ries impact event. These young dates correspond to U‐rich metamict domains and may reflect recent Pb loss and/or U‐gain during postimpact hydrothermal alteration or weathering. These observations indicate that dating uplifted crystalline material in impact craters on other bodies might provide useful petrological and chronological constraints on the underlying target rocks rather than directly dating impact events, for which sampling impact melt and impact melt‐bearing lithologies should remain the primary target.
First report of signature whistles in an oceanic common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) population from Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico
Authors: Rio Raul , Rosales‐Nanduca Hiram , Piuma Lucia A. , Piuma João F. , Piuma Manuela , Redecker Guilherme S. , Hoffmann Lilian S.
Published: March 2022

This study is the first baseline acoustic description of common bottlenose dolphin populations (Tursiops truncatus) from Revillagigedo Archipelago and the first identification of signature whistles (SWs) in an oceanic population of T. truncatus. A total of 85% (199/233) of the recorded whistles were classified as stereotyped whistles and subsequently (bout analysis/SIGID) categorized into one of five SW types. External observers were in perfect agreement in classifying whistles into the adopted SW categorization. SWs represented 42% (98/233) of the repertoire. Overall, most whistle types were categorized as sine (80%; SW1, SW2, SW4, and SW5) with one downsweep (20%, SW3). Roca Partida Island had the highest number of SW types. Principal component analysis explained 77% of the total SWs variance, highlighting the importance of shape/contour variables to the SWs variance. The combined mean SWs acoustic parameters from Revillagigedo Archipelago were higher than that recorded in coastal regions, which may indicate there are differences between SWs of pelagic and coastal populations. However, further acoustic and ecological studies in the Archipelago are needed to clarify and expand our findings, to identify its members (Photo ID and SW Revillagigedo Catalog), and to investigate this topic at other oceanic islands.
The Scholar‐Entrepreneurial Organization: Lessons in Building an Academic Startup
Authors: Bell Arvid , Bollfrass Alexander , Giannone Monica , Nehrbass Alexander , Valley Taylor , Wolf Dana
Published: March 2022

This article introduces the concept of a scholar‐entrepreneurial organization (SEO), defined as an entrepreneurial venture within an academic institution. We explore the case of the Negotiation Task Force (NTF), an SEO hosted at Harvard University’s Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies. Equipped with university seed funding, the NTF is intended to be self‐funded at the end of its 36‐month incubation period. We explain the NTF’s mission, minimum viable products, history, and now established flagship programs; explore the challenges and opportunities that a scholarly startup confronts; and conclude with recommendations for others seeking to launch an SEO.