bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curcumin reduces oxidative stress and fat deposition in longissimus dorsi muscle of intrauterine growth‐retarded finishing pigs
Authors: Zhang Jiaqi , Yan Enfa , Zhang Lili , Wang Tian , Wang Chao
Published: June 2022

Dietary curcumin possessing multiple biological activities may be an effective way to alleviate oxidative damage and fat deposition in intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) finishing pigs. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate effects of dietary curcumin on meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and fat deposition of longissimus dorsi muscle in IUGR finishing pigs. Twelve normal birth weight (NBW) and 24 IUGR female piglets at 26 days of age were divided into 3 dietary groups: NBW (basal diet), IUGR (basal diet), and IUGR + Cur (basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg curcumin). The trial lasted for 169 days. Results showed that IUGR increased concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyls (PC) and fat deposition in longissimus dorsi muscle. However, curcumin decreased the intramuscular fat content and the levels of MDA and PC and improved meat quality in IUGR pigs. Furthermore, curcumin inhibited the decrease of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) protein expression and decreased peroxisome pro liferator‐activated receptors γ (PPARγ) expression in IUGR pigs. These findings suggested that dietary addition of 200 mg/kg curcumin could improve meat quality, alleviate oxidative stress through activating Nrf2 signaling pathway, and reduce fat deposition via inhibiting PPARγ expression in longissimus dorsi muscle of IUGR finishing pigs.
Targeting the DNA repair enzymes MTH1 and OGG1 as a novel approach to treat inflammatory diseases
Authors: Karsten Stella
Published: June 2022

Autoimmune diseases and acute inflammation like sepsis cause significant morbidity and disability globally, and new targeted therapies are urgently needed. DNA repair and reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathways have long been investigated as targets for cancer treatment, but their role in immunological research has been limited. In this MiniReview, we discuss the DNA repair enzymes MTH1 and OGG1 as targets to treat both T cell‐driven diseases and acute inflammation. The MiniReview is based on a PhD thesis where both enzymes were investigated with cell and animal models. For MTH1, we found that its inhibition selectively kills activated T cells without being toxic to resting cells or other tissues. MTH1 inhibition also had an alleviating role in disease models of psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. We further identified a novel MTH1lowROSlow phenotype among activated T cells. Regarding OGG1, we demonstrated a mechanism of action of the OGG1 inhibitor TH5487, which prevents the assembly of pro‐inflammatory transcription factors and mitigates acute airway infection in mouse models of pneumonia. Hence, we propose both enzymes to be promising novel targets to treat inflammation and suggest that redox and DNA repair pathways could be useful targets for future immunomodulating therapies.
Students in out‐of‐home care: Their experiences of Transforming Educational Achievement for Children at Risk, an Australian education programme
Authors: Townsend Indra M. , Berger Emily P. , Reupert Andrea E.
Published: June 2022

Children living in out‐of‐home care are at greater risk of poor educational outcomes compared to other children. To address their educational needs, several programs have been developed. Within a qualitative paradigm, this study explored the experiences of students about their involvement in TEACHaR (Transforming Educational Achievement for Children at Risk), a specialized education programme. Eight students (aged 13 to 18 years) from the programme participated in individual, semi‐structured interviews. Responses were analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Participants indicated that the programme provided individualized and flexible academic support, reduced their shame and embarrassment and provided them with more than academic support. They highlighted the importance of the student–educator relationship, and the need for encouragement and motivation to pursue their educational goals. Finally, findings report on how COVID‐19 impacts on student experiences of the programme. Recommendations for the development and improvement of education programs for students in out‐of‐home care conclude this paper.
Elevated pulsatility index is associated with poor functional outcome in stroke patients treated with thrombectomy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Wenbo , Liu Ran , Yu Wantong , Wu Longfei , Wu Chuanjie , Li Chuanhui , Li Sijie , Chen Jian , Song Haiqing , Hua Yang , Ma Qingfeng , Ji Xunming
Published: June 2022

Aims

To evaluate pulsatility index (PI) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) who underwent endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).

Methods

Patients were retrospectively recruited if their stroke were secondary to middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion and achieved full recanalization after EVT. Transcranial Doppler was performed within 24‐hour post‐EVT. The primary outcome was correlation between the MCA‐PI on the affected side and 3‐month functional outcome, with modified Rankin scale (mRS) ≥5 indicated extremely poor functional outcomes.

Results

Totally, 170 patients were included. High MCA‐PI was positively related to the 3‐month mRS score (r = 0.288, p < 0.001). The highest quartile of the MCA‐PI was associated with a high incidence of extremely poor functional outcomes (adjusted OR, 13.33; 95% CI, 2.65–67.17; adjusted p = 0.002) after adjusting for confounding factors. The predictive capacity of the MCA‐PI for extremely poor functional outcomes was good (area under the curve, 0.755; 95% CI, 0.655–0.854; p < 0.001), and its cutoff value for predicting extremely poor outcomes was 1.04, with a sensitivity of 65.6% and specificity of 78.3%.

Conclusion

The MCA‐PI on the affected side is a prognostic biomarker in patients who have undergone stroke thrombectomy. An elevated MCA‐PI may be prognostically valuable for predicting extremely poor functional outcomes.
Consolation and medicine in Luther's “Whether One May Flee from a Deadly Plague”
Authors: Schiefelbein‐Guerrero Kyle
Published: June 2022

This article analyzes Luther’s 1529 letter “Whether One May Flee from a Deadly Plague” through the lenses of Reformation consolation literature and the prevailing medical theories at the time to highlight Luther’s concerns about sickness, holding together theological and practical medical advice. Luther’s letter addresses key theological concerns about God and neighbor that are central to today’s engagement with the world, including his Christology, his relational view of the person, the vocation of care, and the two‐kingdoms way of describing how God operates.
A large‐scale assessment of ant diversity across the Brazilian Amazon Basin: integrating geographic, ecological and morphological drivers of sampling bias
Authors: Andrade‐Silva Joudellys , Baccaro Fabrício B. , Prado Lívia P. , Guénard Benoit , Warren Dan L. , Kass Jamie M. , Economo Evan P. , Silva Rogério R.
Published: June 2022

Tropical ecosystems are often biodiversity hotspots, and invertebrates represent the main underrepresented component of diversity in large‐scale analyses. This problem is partly related to the scarcity of data widely available to conduct these studies and the lack of systematic organization of knowledge about invertebrates' distributions in biodiversity hotspots. Here, we introduce and analyze a comprehensive data compilation of Amazonian ant diversity. Using records from 1817 to 2020 from both published and unpublished sources, we describe the diversity and distribution of ant species in the Brazilian Amazon Basin. Further, using high‐definition images and data from taxonomic publications, we build a comprehensive database of morphological traits for the ant species that occur in the region. In total, we recorded 1067 nominal species in the Brazilian Amazon Basin, with sampling locations strongly biased by access routes, urban centers, research institutions and major infrastructure projects. Large areas where ant sampling is non‐existent represent about 52% of the basin and are concentrated mainly in the northern, southeastern and western Brazilian Amazon. We found that distance to roads is the main driver of ant sampling in the Amazon. Contrary to our expectations, morphological traits had lower predictive power in predicting sampling bias than purely geographic variables. However, when geographic predictors were controlled, habitat stratum and traits contribute to explain the remaining variance. More species were recorded in better‐sampled areas, but species richness estimation models suggest that areas in southern Amazonian edge forests are associated with especially high species richness. Our results represent the first trait‐based, large‐scale study for insects in Amazonian forests and a starting point for macroecological studies focusing on insect diversity in the Amazon Basin.
Daydreaming and psychopathology in adolescence: An exploratory study
Authors: Conte Giulia , Arigliani Elena , Martinelli Martina , Di Noia Sofia , Chiarotti Flavia , Cardona Francesco
Published: June 2022

Aim: Daydreaming is a cognitive phenomenon characterized by the redirection of attention from the external world to inner representations. Although serving several adaptive functions, excessive daydreaming has been related to emotional problems and poor psychosocial adjustment. During adolescence, this phenomenon has been scarcely explored as potential psychopathological correlate.

This study aims to explore daydreaming frequency and association with psychopathological symptoms in a non‐referred population.

Methods: Participants were adolescents from a community sample (N = 251). Daydreaming was assessed through the Daydreaming Frequency Scale (DDFS). Youth Self‐Report (YSR) and Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were used as self‐reports to evaluate psychopathological problems and adaptive functioning.

Results: Excessive daydreaming was present in 12.7% of participants. DDFS scores were significantly elevated in respondents with clinical scores for internalizing, depressive, obsessive–compulsive, and post‐traumatic stress problems. Symptom severity correlated positively with the DDFS. Higher daydreaming was also associated with emotional symptoms, conduct problems and total difficulties on the SDQ.

Conclusions: Adolescents who daydream show increased depressive, obsessive–compulsive, and post‐traumatic stress symptoms. Possible cognitive processes at play in the relationship between daydreaming and psychopathology are discussed. Daydreaming may represent a silent psychopathological index that deserves better recognition in the clinical practice and in mental health initiatives for adolescents.
The dark side of meaningful work‐from‐home: A nonlinear approach
Authors: Magrizos Solon , Roumpi Dorothea , Georgiadou Andri , Kostopoulos Ioannis , Vrontis Demetris
Published: June 2022

Changes in the technological environment of work already in motion over the last few years, but accelerated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, place individuals' search for meaningfulness in their work under a new light. In this context, we draw on enrichment theory and the ego‐depletion perspective and challenge the prevailing notion that meaningfulness is always positive and hypothesize that, under certain conditions, there can be such a thing as “too much meaningfulness.” A two‐wave study of 243 full‐time employees working from home during the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United States offers support for a nonlinear effect of meaningfulness of work for workaholics, such that it has a positive effect on individuals up to a certain point, but a negative effect if there are excessive amounts of meaningfulness. We discuss these findings in light of the debate around the moral duty of managers and firms to offer meaningful jobs to employees and offer practical suggestions for firms.
Validation of a comprehensive diagnostic algorithm for patients with acute vertigo and dizziness
Authors: Filippopulos Filipp M. , Strobl Ralf , Belanovic Bozidar , Dunker Konstanze , Grill Eva , Brandt Thomas , Zwergal Andreas , Huppert Doreen
Published: June 2022

Background and purpose

Vertigo and dizziness are common complaints in emergency departments and primary care, and pose major diagnostic challenges due to their various underlying etiologies. Most supportive diagnostic algorithms concentrate on either identifying cerebrovascular events (CVEs) or diagnosing specific vestibular disorders or are restricted to specific patient subgroups. The aim of the present study was to develop and validate a comprehenisve algorithm for identifying patients with CVE and classifying the most common vestibular disorders.

Methods

The study was conducted within the scope of the “PoiSe” project (Prevention, Online feedback, and Interdisciplinary Therapy of Acute Vestibular Syndromes by e‐health). A three‐level algorithm was developed according to international guidelines and scientific evidence, addressing both the detection of CVEs and the classification of non‐vascular vestibular disorders (unilateral vestibulopathy, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, vestibular paroxysmia, Menière's disease, vestibular migraine, functional dizziness). The algorithm was validated in a prospectively collected dataset of 407 patients with acute vertigo and dizziness presenting to the Emergency Department at the Ludwig‐Maximilian University of Munich.

Results

The algorithm assigned 287 of 407 patients to the correct diagnosis, corresponding to an overall accuracy of 71%. CVEs were identified with high sensitivity of 94%. The six most common vestibular disorders were classified with high specificity, above 95%. Random forest identified presence of a paresis, sensory loss, central ocular motor and vestibular signs (HINTS [head impulse test, nystagmus assessment, and test of skew deviation]), and older age as the most important variables indicating a cerebrovascular event.

Conclusions

The proposed diagnostic algorithm can correctly classify the most common vestibular disorders based on a comprehensive set of key questions and clinical examinations. It is easily applied, not limited to subgroups, and might therefore be transferred to broad clinical settings such as primary healthcare.
Detection of changes in synaptic density in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients using 18F‐SynVesT‐1 positron emission tomography
Authors: Tang Yongxiang , Liu Pan , Li Wanzhen , Liu Zhen , Zhou Ming , Li Jian , Yuan Yanchun , Fang Liangjuan , Wang Mengli , Shen Lu , Huang Yiyun , Tang Beisha , Wang Junling , Hu Shuo
Published: June 2022

Background and purpose

Synaptic loss is well established as the major correlate of characteristic and consistent pathology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We aimed to assess the possible discriminant diagnostic value of 18F‐SynVesT‐1 positron emission tomography (PET) as a marker of ALS pathology and investigate whether specific synaptic density signatures are present in ALS with different subtypes.

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with ALS and 25 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. All participants underwent 18F‐SynVesT‐1‐PET. Synaptic density between ALS and HCs and between different ALS subgroups were compared. Correlation between synaptic density and clinical features in ALS was also analyzed.

Results

Low uptake distribution was found in the group comprising 21 ALS patients as compared with HCs in the right temporal lobe and the bilateral inferior frontal gyrus, anterior cingulate, and hippocampus–insula region. We also found low uptake in the bilateral superior temporal gyrus, hippocampus–insula, anterior cingulate, and left inferior frontal gyrus in ALS patients with cognitive impairment compared to HCs. Furthermore, compared to spinal onset ALS, bulbar onset ALS showed low uptake in the bilateral cingulate gyrus and high uptake in the bilateral superior temporal gyrus and left occipital lobe. No significant result was found in correlation analysis.

Conclusions

This approach may provide a direct measure of synaptic density, and it therefore might represent a potentially useful biomarker for ALS diagnosis, as well as for estimating the cognitive decline and site of onset in ALS. 18F‐SynVesT‐1‐PET is presently not justified as a routine investigation to detect evidence of brain dysfunction leading to progression in ALS.
The ILAE consensus classification of focal cortical dysplasia: An update proposed by an ad hoc task force of the ILAE diagnostic methods commission
Authors: Najm Imad , Lal Dennis , Alonso Vanegas Mario , Cendes Fernando , Lopes‐Cendes Iscia , Palmini Andre , Paglioli Eliseu , Sarnat Harvey B. , Walsh Christopher A. , Wiebe Samuel , Aronica Eleonora , Baulac Stéphanie , Coras Roland , Kobow Katja , Cross J. Helen , Garbelli Rita , Holthausen Hans , Rössler Karl , Thom Maria , El‐Osta Assam , Lee Jeong Ho , Miyata Hajime , Guerrini Renzo , Piao Yue‐Shan , Zhou Dong , Blümcke Ingmar
Published: June 2022

Ongoing challenges in diagnosing focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) mandate continuous research and consensus agreement to improve disease definition and classification. An International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Task Force (TF) reviewed the FCD classification of 2011 to identify existing gaps and provide a timely update. The following methodology was applied to achieve this goal: a survey of published literature indexed with ((Focal Cortical Dysplasia) AND (epilepsy)) between 01/01/2012 and 06/30/2021 (n = 1349) in PubMed identified the knowledge gained since 2012 and new developments in the field. An online survey consulted the ILAE community about the current use of the FCD classification scheme with 367 people answering. The TF performed an iterative clinico‐pathological and genetic agreement study to objectively measure the diagnostic gap in blood/brain samples from 22 patients suspicious for FCD and submitted to epilepsy surgery. The literature confirmed new molecular‐genetic characterizations involving the mechanistic Target Of Rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in FCD type II (FCDII), and SLC35A2 in mild malformations of cortical development (mMCDs) with oligodendroglial hyperplasia (MOGHE). The electro‐clinical‐imaging phenotypes and surgical outcomes were better defined and validated for FCDII. Little new information was acquired on clinical, histopathological, or genetic characteristics of FCD type I (FCDI) and FCD type III (FCDIII). The survey identified mMCDs, FCDI, and genetic characterization as fields for improvement in an updated classification. Our iterative clinico‐pathological and genetic agreement study confirmed the importance of immunohistochemical staining, neuroimaging, and genetic tests to improve the diagnostic yield. The TF proposes to include mMCDs, MOGHE, and “no definite FCD on histopathology” as new categories in the updated FCD classification. The histopathological classification can be further augmented by advanced neuroimaging and genetic studies to comprehensively diagnose FCD subtypes; these different levels should then be integrated into a multi‐layered diagnostic scheme. This update may help to foster multidisciplinary efforts toward a better understanding of FCD and the development of novel targeted treatment options.
Superficial and deep white matter diffusion abnormalities in focal epilepsies
Authors: Urquia‐Osorio Hebel , Pimentel‐Silva Luciana R. , Rezende Thiago Junqueira Ribeiro , Almendares‐Bonilla Eimy , Yasuda Clarissa L. , Concha Luis , Cendes Fernando
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study was undertaken to evaluate superficial‐white matter (WM) and deep‐WM magnetic resonance imaging diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics and identify distinctive patterns of microstructural abnormalities in focal epilepsies of diverse etiology, localization, and response to antiseizure medication (ASM).

Methods

We examined DTI data for 113 healthy controls and 113 patients with focal epilepsies: 51 patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and hippocampal sclerosis (HS) refractory to ASM, 27 with pharmacoresponsive TLE‐HS, 15 with temporal lobe focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), and 20 with frontal lobe FCD. To assess WM microstructure, we used a multicontrast multiatlas parcellation of DTI. We evaluated fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), and axial diffusivity (AD), and assessed within‐group differences ipsilateral and contralateral to the epileptogenic lesion, as well as between‐group differences, in regions of interest (ROIs).

Results

The TLE‐HS groups presented more widespread superficial‐ and deep‐WM diffusion abnormalities than both FCD groups. Concerning superficial WM, TLE‐HS groups showed multilobar ipsilateral and contralateral abnormalities, with less extensive distribution in pharmacoresponsive patients. Both the refractory TLE‐HS and pharmacoresponsive TLE‐HS groups also presented pronounced changes in ipsilateral frontotemporal ROIs (decreased FA and increased MD, RD, and AD). Conversely, FCD patients showed diffusion changes almost exclusively adjacent to epileptogenic areas.

Significance

Our findings add further evidence of widespread abnormalities in WM diffusion metrics in patients with TLE‐HS compared to other focal epilepsies. Notably, superficial‐WM microstructural damage in patients with FCD is more restricted around the epileptogenic lesion, whereas TLE‐HS groups showed diffuse WM damage with ipsilateral frontotemporal predominance. These findings suggest the potential of superficial‐WM analysis for better understanding the biological mechanisms of focal epilepsies, and identifying dysfunctional networks and their relationship with the clinical–pathological phenotype. In addition, lobar superficial‐WM abnormalities may aid in the diagnosis of subtle FCDs.
Temporal lobe interictal spikes disrupt encoding and retrieval of verbal memory: A subregion analysis
Authors: Camarillo‐Rodriguez Liliana , Leenen Iwin , Waldman Zachary , Serruya Mijail , Wanda Paul A. , Herweg Nora A. , Kahana Michael J. , Rubinstein Daniel , Orosz Iren , Lega Bradley , Podkorytova Irina , Gross Robert E. , Worrell Gregory , Davis Kathryn A. , Jobst Barbara C. , Sheth Sameer A. , Weiss Shennan A. , Sperling Michael R.
Published: June 2022

Objective

The medial temporal lobe (MTL) encodes and recalls memories and can be a predominant site for interictal spikes (IS) in patients with focal epilepsy. It is unclear whether memory deficits are due to IS in the MTL producing a transient decline. Here, we investigated whether IS in the MTL subregions and lateral temporal cortex impact episodic memory encoding and recall.

Methods

Seventy‐eight participants undergoing presurgical evaluation for medically refractory focal epilepsy with depth electrodes placed in the temporal lobe participated in a verbal free recall task. IS were manually annotated during the pre‐encoding, encoding, and recall epochs. We examined the effect of IS on word recall using mixed‐effects logistic regression.

Results

IS in the left hippocampus (odds ratio [OR] = .73, 95% confidence interval [CI] = .63–.84, p < .001) and left middle temporal gyrus (OR = .46, 95% CI = .27–.78, p < .05) during word encoding decreased subsequent recall performance. Within the left hippocampus, this effect was specific for area CA1 (OR = .76, 95% CI = .66–.88, p < .01) and dentate gyrus (OR = .74, 95% CI = .62–.89, p < .05). IS in other MTL subregions or inferior and superior temporal gyrus and IS occurring during the prestimulus window did not affect word encoding (p > .05). IS during retrieval in right hippocampal (OR = .22, 95% CI = .08–.63, p = .01) and parahippocampal regions (OR = .24, 95% CI = .07–.8, p < .05) reduced the probability of recalling a word.

Significance

IS in medial and lateral temporal cortex contribute to transient memory decline during verbal episodic memory.
Biomass yield improvement in switchgrass through genomic prediction of flowering time
Authors: Tilhou Neal W. , Casler Michael D.
Published: June 2022

The seasonal timing of the transition from vegetative to reproductive growth has a major impact on biomass accumulation in switchgrass. Late‐flowering switchgrass cultivars produce greater biomass, a critical trait for sustainable bioenergy production. Genomic prediction (GP) may allow rapid selection of late‐flowering individuals with reduced time and expense for field evaluations. To evaluate GP, two flowering time traits (heading date and anthesis date) were collected on 1532 genotypes from four breeding populations: Midwest, Gulf, Atlantic, and Hybrid. These were sequenced using genotype‐by‐sequencing (530,792 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms). Predictive ability of single‐trait and multi‐trait models were evaluated by cross‐validation, by prediction of a progeny trial (n = 122), and through prediction of yield performance in a parallel experiment (n = 52). Predictive ability was not improved by sharing information among breeding groups. Overall, multi‐trait models provided an advantage during cross‐validation, but a smaller advantage during progeny prediction. Within populations, GP resulted in lower per‐cycle progress than previously reported field evaluations (3.1 vs. 5.0 day−1 cycle−1). However, GP cycles are potentially much faster than field evaluations. When directly predicting biomass yield, the Hybrid training population had a predictive ability of 0.54–0.63. This reinforces the strong linkage between biomass yields in swards and flowering time. These results highlight the value of GP for rapid yield improvement in switchgrass, particularly in a breeding program designed to share information between biomass yield trials and low‐cost flowering time evaluations.
An analysis of ALA‐accredited MLS curricula indicates deficiencies in the initial training provided for public librarians
Authors: Pandolfelli Gabriella , Koos Jessica A. , Benz Scott Lisa
Published: June 2022

Background

Public librarians often address patron inquiries regarding health concerns. However, prior research indicates that public librarians may be unprepared to meet the health information requests of patrons.

Objective

This study examined the availability of health‐themed courses in American Library Association (ALA) accredited Master of Library and Information Studies/Science (MLIS) programs.

Methods

Accredited MLIS programs were identified using the ALA directory. Curricula were reviewed for health content and public librarianship, children's, and young adult concentrations. Descriptive and bivariate analyses assessed the percent of programs that offered various health‐related course content and the differences in availability of such content.

Results

Of the 59 accredited MLIS programs, only 35 (59.32%) listed at least one health elective and none listed a required health course. No MLIS programs that had a public library concentration (n = 21) listed a required or elective health course, two programs with a children's concentration (n = 25) listed health course electives, and one program with a young adult concentration (n = 25) listed a health course elective.

Conclusion

ALA‐accredited MLIS programs should consider increasing their offerings or requiring health‐related courses to improve the training of public librarians to meet the health information needs of communities.
The impact of apical periodontitis, non‐surgical root canal retreatment and periapical surgery on serum inflammatory biomarkers
Authors: Bakhsh Abdulaziz , Moyes David , Proctor Gordon , Mannocci Francesco , Niazi Sadia Ambreen
Published: June 2022

Aim

The aim of the study was to measure serum levels of molecular markers of inflammation in patients undergoing non‐surgical root canal retreatment (Re‐RCT) and periapical surgery (PS) for the treatment of apical periodontitis and to establish if such levels are influenced by the size of apical radiolucencies at baseline and by the treatment outcome.

Methodology

A total of 115 participants were recruited (n = 50 Controls, n = 35 Re‐RCT, n = 30 PS). Preoperative periapical radiographs and cone beam CT (CBCT) scans of teeth were taken. Blood was collected from treatment groups at baseline, 3‐, 6‐, and 12‐month post‐treatment and from controls at baseline and 12 months. Serum levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, Pentraxin 3, ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, hs‐CRP, FGF‐23, MMP‐2, MMP‐8, MMP‐9, C3 and ADMA were analysed using multiplex immunoassay and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Different time points within the same group were compared using Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, and differences between groups were analysed using the Mann–Whitney test. Non‐linear association between different factors was assessed using Spearman's correlation.

Results

Preoperative serum levels of FGF‐23, IL‐1β, hs‐CRP and ADMA were significantly higher in the diseased groups compared with controls (p < .001; p = .008; p < .001; p = .013, respectively). The preoperative size of the radiolucency was associated with increased levels of FGF‐23, IL‐1β and IL‐6. At 3‐months following treatment, IL‐1β, IL‐8, hs‐CRP, C3, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 levels increased compared with baseline in treatment groups. IL‐1β and IL‐8 further increased at 6 months, whereas FGF‐23, hs‐CRP, C3, MMP2 and MMP‐9 decreased. One‐year post‐treatment, FGF‐23, pentraxin‐3 and ADMA were significantly reduced below baseline levels. At the 1‐year review, CBCT revealed that 25.9% of treated cases completely healed, while 63% were healing, and 11.1% failed. Treatment outcome was found to be influenced by preoperative levels of ADMA and IL‐8 levels at 6 months.

Conclusions

Both symptomatic and asymptomatic apical periodontitis (AP) can contribute to increased levels of molecular markers of inflammation. A further transient inflammatory markers rise after root canal retreatment and apical surgery were demonstrated. Successful endodontic treatment and periapical surgery result in a long‐term reduction in inflammatory marker levels.
Opportunity cost in consumer behavior: Definitions, operationalizations, and ambiguities
Authors: Haghpour Babak , Sahabeh Easa , Halvari Hallgeir
Published: June 2022

Human beings have countless desires but bounded resources, and this limitation makes them choose between alternatives. Consumers are encouraged to be aware of the best alternative use of a resource (e.g., money and time), which is known as the opportunity cost of their choice. The current systematic review addresses existing debates and ambiguities surrounding opportunity cost consideration by consumers. We review the origins, different definitions, antecedents, associated decisions, and outcomes of opportunity costs consideration through a detailed examination of the relevant literature from multiple disciplines such as marketing, psychology, and economics. The SPAR‐4‐SLR protocol is used to conduct the review and the ADO (Antecedents, Decisions, Outcomes) framework is used to organize our findings. We highlight and reconcile two different perspectives on the conceptualization of opportunity cost as the forgone value (by considering willingness to pay) versus the physical market value of the second‐best alternative. Different antecedents of opportunity cost consideration are categorized into three categories: individual differences, situational variables, and information processing method. We discuss when and why consumers tend to neglect the opportunity cost, in which situations they are more likely to overestimate the opportunity cost, and what is the difference between consideration of opportunity cost of time and money. Results show that despite what the economics literature suggests, opportunity cost consideration does not always lead to positive outcomes. Based on the literature of regret theory, and differences between maximizers and satisficers, we discuss how opportunity cost considerations might lead to choice discomfort, regret, and dissatisfaction.
Robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy with minimum follow‐up of 5 years: A multi‐center prospective study in Japan
Authors: Furukawa Junya , Hinata Nobuyuki , Teisima Jun , Takenaka Atsushi , Shiroki Ryoichi , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Kanayama Hiro‐omi , Hattori Kazunori , Horie Shigeo , Tozawa Keiichi , Kato Masashi , Ohyama Chikara , Habuchi Tomonori , Kawamorita Naoki , Eto Masatoshi , Fujisawa Masato
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy is widely performed for small renal masses, achieving excellent perioperative and intermediate oncological outcomes. However, long‐term oncological, functional, and quality of life outcomes after robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate quality of life at 1 year and oncological and functional outcomes of robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy after a minimum follow‐up of 5 years.

Methods

Personal, perioperative, postoperative, functional, oncological, and quality of life data were evaluated. The EQ‐5D‐5L tool, which incorporates health profiles and a EuroQol Visual Analog Scale, was used to assess quality of life preoperatively and 365 days postoperatively. Regarding oncological and functional outcomes, overall survival, recurrence‐free survival, and changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate were calculated.

Results

There were few changes in levels between the two time points for all EQ‐5D dimensions. The mean change in EQ‐5D‐5L was 0.020 (95% confidence interval 0.006–0.033, P = 0.006), and in EuroQol Visual Analog Scale score 4.60 (95% confidence interval 2.17–7.02, P = 0.0003). Overall and recurrence‐free survival 5 years after robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy were 97.9% and 92.8%, respectively. After an early postoperative decrease, the estimated glomerular filtration rate remained stable over time.

Conclusions

Robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy in patients with a T1 renal tumor is safe, feasible, and effective from the perspective of quality of life and survival, even after 5 years. When making treatment decisions, perioperative and quality of life outcomes should be considered together with long‐term oncological outcomes.
Circulating tissue factor‐positive extracellular vesicles and their association with thrombosis in different diseases
Authors: Hisada Yohei , Sachetto Ana Teresa Azevedo , Mackman Nigel
Published: June 2022

Tissue factor (TF) is a procoagulant protein released from activated host cells, such as monocytes, and tumor cells on extracellular vesicles (EVs). TF + EVs are observed in the circulation of patients with various types of diseases. In this review, we will summarize the association between TF + EVs and activation of coagulation and survival in different types of diseases, including cancer, sepsis, and infections with different viruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), influenza A virus (IAV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). We will also discuss the source of TF + EVs in various diseases. EVTF activity is associated with thrombosis in pancreatic cancer patients and coronavirus disease 2019 patients (COVID‐19) and with disseminated intravascular coagulation in cancer patients. EVTF activity is also associated with worse survival in patients with cancer and COVID‐19. Monocytes are the major sources of TF + EVs in sepsis, and viral infections, such as HIV, Ebola virus, and SARS‐CoV‐2. In contrast, alveolar epithelial cells are the major source of TF + EVs in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in COVID‐19 and influenza A patients. These studies indicate that EVTF activity could be used as a biomarker to identify patients that have an increased risk of coagulopathy and mortality.
CO2 elevation and nutrient patchiness interactively affect morphology, nitrogen uptake, partitioning and use efficiency of Nicotiana tabacum L. (tobacco) during anthesis
Authors: Zhang Lin , Li Guitong , Li Caibin , Liu Fulai
Published: June 2022

The stimulation effect of elevated [CO2] (e[CO2]) on plant growth is modulated by nitrogen (N) availability, yet the mechanisms of this modulation under patchy N supply remain largely elusive. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which patchy nutrient supply in the root‐zone influence on N uptake, partitioning and use efficiency of tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum L.) grown under e[CO2]. A split‐root pot experiment was conducted on tobacco plants grown at ambient (a[CO2], 400 μmol L−1) and e[CO2] (800 μmol L−1) conditions during anthesis. Plants were subjected to two fertilizer levels [0 and 113‐29‐214 (N‐P‐K) mg kg−1 soil] and three fertilization regimes (partial root‐zone fertilization, PRN, couple root‐zone fertilization, CRN and no fertilization, CK). Elevated [CO2] significantly decreased N concentrations in all tobacco organs, with the greatest reduction in leaves. Positive responses of tobacco biomass and NUE to e[CO2] were recorded, and a large amount of 15N labelled fertilizer‐N was partitioned to stems at the expense to leaves. Compared to the partially fertilized root, an equal N concentration was observed in the non‐fertilized root. In addition, compared with CRN, PRN increased the root exudates of sugar and organic acid; however, the increased root biomass by nutrient patchiness did not enhance plant total N uptake. Collectively, e[CO2] could sustain N assimilation and distribution of tobacco plants in response to natural heterogeneous nutrient available in the soil caused by patchy fertilization.
Masturbation, Deception, and Rape
Authors: Sparrow Robert
Published: June 2022

‘Rape by deception’ occurs when the victim ‘consents’ to sexual penetration as a result of certain sorts of deception by the perpetrator. The legal and philosophical literature on rape by deception has almost exclusively concentrated on cases wherein victims are brought to ‘consent’ to sexual intercourse by deception. Broadening our focus to consider sexual penetration in other contexts reveals a puzzle: if penetration in the context of sexual intercourse premised on deception is rape, is sexual penetration in the context of masturbation as a result of deception rape?
A new method based on surface‐sample pollen data for reconstructing palaeovegetation patterns
Authors: Cruz‐Silva Esmeralda , Harrison Sandy P. , Marinova Elena , Prentice I. Colin
Published: June 2022

Aim

Biomisation has been the most widely used technique to reconstruct past regional vegetation patterns because it does not require an extensive modern pollen dataset. However, it has well‐known limitations including its dependence on expert judgement for the assignment of pollen taxa to plant functional types (PFTs) and PFTs to biomes. Here we present a new method that combines the strengths of biomisation with those of the alternative dissimilarity‐based techniques.

Location

The Eastern Mediterranean‐Black Sea Caspian Corridor (EMBSeCBIO).

Taxon

Plants

Methods

Modern pollen samples, assigned to biomes based on potential natural vegetation data, are used to characterize the within‐biome means and standard deviations of the abundances of each taxon. These values are used to calculate a dissimilarity index between any pollen sample and every biome, and thus assign the sample to the most likely biome. We calculate a threshold value for each modern biome; fossil samples with scores below the threshold for all modern biomes are thus identified as non‐analogue vegetation. We applied the new method to the EMBSeCBIO region to compare its performance with existing reconstructions.

Results

The method captured changes in the importance of individual taxa along environmental gradients. The balanced accuracy obtained for the EMBSeCBIO region using the new method was better than obtained using biomisation (77% vs. 65%). When the method was applied to high‐resolution fossil records, 70% of the entities showed more temporally stable biome assignments than obtained using biomisation. The technique also identified likely non‐analogue assemblages in a synthetic modern dataset and in fossil records.

Main conclusions

The new method yields more accurate and stable reconstructions of vegetation than biomisation. It requires an extensive modern pollen dataset, but is conceptually simple, and avoids subjective choices about taxon allocations to PFTs and PFTs to biomes.
Analysis and pharmacological modulation of senescence in human epithelial stem cells
Authors: Barbaro Vanessa , Orvieto Antonio , Alvisi Gualtiero , Bertolin Marina , Bonelli Filippo , Liehr Thomas , Harutyunyan Tigran , Kankel Stefanie , Joksic Gordana , Ferrari Stefano , Daniele Elena , Ponzin Diego , Bettio Daniela , Salviati Leonardo , Di Iorio Enzo
Published: June 2022

Human epithelial stem cells (ESCs) are characterized by long‐term regenerative properties, much dependent on the tissue of origin and varying during their lifespan. We analysed such variables in cultures of ESCs isolated from the skin, conjunctiva, limbus and oral mucosa of healthy donors and patients affected by ectrodactyly‐ectodermal dysplasia‐clefting syndrome, a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the p63 gene. We cultured cells until exhaustion in the presence or in the absence of DAPT (γ‐secretase inhibitor; N‐[N‐(3, 5‐difluorophenacetyl)‐L‐alanyl]‐S‐phenylglycine T‐butyl ester). All cells were able to differentiate in vitro but exhibited variable self‐renewal potential. In particular, cells carrying p63 mutations stopped prematurely, compared with controls. Importantly, administration of DAPT significantly extended the replicative properties of all stem cells under examination. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that distinct sets of genes were up‐ or down‐regulated during their lifetime, thus allowing to identify druggable gene networks and off‐the‐shelf compounds potentially dealing with epithelial stem cell senescence. These data will expand our knowledge on the genetic bases of senescence and potentially pave the way to the pharmacological modulation of ageing in epithelial stem cells.
Uncertainty before and during COVID‐19: A survey
Authors: Castelnuovo Efrem
Published: June 2022

This survey features three parts. The first one reviews the most recent literature on the relationship between domestic (i.e., country‐specific) uncertainty and the business cycle, and offers ten main takeaways. The second part surveys contributions to the fast‐growing strand of the literature that focuses on the macroeconomic effects of uncertainty spillovers and global uncertainty. The last part presents contributions on the role played by uncertainty during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
The role of interparental relationship variability in parent–child interactions: Results from a sample of mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder and mothers with neurotypical children
Authors: Don Brian P. , Roubinov Danielle S. , Puterman Eli , Epel Elissa S.
Published: June 2022

Objective

The goal of this study was to examine how variability in interparental relationship functioning predicts the quality of parent–child interactions in daily life among families in which a child had autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and families of neurotypical children.

Background

Parent–child interactions predict a host of key outcomes for children, and one contributor to the health of parent–child interactions is the quality of the relationship between the parent couple. Yet, prior research has exclusively focused on how average levels of parental relationship functioning predicts parent–child interactions, which neglects the importance of variability in the interparental relationship.

Method

Drawing on a sample of 167 mothers, one group with a child with ASD (n = 85), and the other group with a neurotypical child (n = 82), we examined how weekly variability in mothers' relational experiences with their partner predicted their interactions with their children in daily life using multilevel modeling.

Results

The association between interparental relational variability and mother child‐interactions depended on mean levels of interparental relational functioning. Specifically, when mothers reported poor average relational functioning across a particular week, greater variability in their relationship across this same period was associated with benefits for mother–child interactions. This pattern was not seen in those with healthy interparental functioning. Moreover, moderation analyses suggested relational variability may be especially relevant for parent–child interactions of mothers of neurotypical children.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the association between variability in parents' relational experiences and parent–child interactions depends upon mean levels.
Can diarrhea affect the pharmacokinetics of racecadotril in neonatal calves?
Authors: Tras Bunyamin , Ok Mahmut , Parlak Tugba Melike , Ider Merve , Yildiz Ramazan , Eser Faki Hatice , Ozdemir Kutahya Zeynep , Uney Kamil
Published: June 2022

This study was aimed to determine the pharmacokinetics of antisecretory‐acting racecadotril, used in the treatment of diarrhea in humans and dogs, following oral administration in both neonatal calves with healthy and neonatal calves with infectious diarrhea. The study was carried out on a total of 24 Holstein calves (2–20 days), of which 6 were healthy and 18 were infectious diarrhea. Calves with infectious diarrhea were divided into 3 groups according to the infectious agent (Escherichia coli, Cryptosporidium parvum, and rotavirus/coronavirus). Racecadotril was administered orally at 2.5 mg/kg dose to calves. The plasma concentrations of racecadotril and its main active metabolite (thiorphan) were determined using HPLC‐UV. The pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed using the non‐compartmental method. In healthy calves, the t1/2ʎz, Cmax, Tmax, and AUC0‐12 of racecadotril were determined 4.70 h, 377 ng/ml, 0.75 h, and 1674 h × ng/ml, respectively. In the plasma of calves with infectious diarrhea, racecadotril and thiorphan were only detected at the sampling time from 0.25 to 1.5 h. As in calves with infectious diarrhea, thiorphan in plasma was only detected in healthy calves from 0.25 to 1.5 h. Racecadotril showed a large distribution volume, rapid elimination, and low metabolism to thiorphan in healthy calves.
The GENOMES UNCOUPLED1 protein has an ancient, highly conserved role but not in retrograde signalling
Authors: Honkanen Suvi , Small Ian
Published: June 2022

The pentatricopeptide repeat protein GENOMES UNCOUPLED1 (GUN1) is required for chloroplast‐to‐nucleus signalling when plastid translation becomes inhibited during chloroplast development in Arabidopsis thaliana, but its exact molecular function remains unknown.

We analysed GUN1 sequences in land plants and streptophyte algae. We tested functional conservation by complementation of the Arabidopsis gun1 mutant with GUN1 genes from the streptophyte alga Coleochate orbicularis or the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha. We also analysed the transcriptomes of M. polymorpha gun1 knockout mutant lines during chloroplast development.

GUN1 evolved within the streptophyte algal ancestors of land plants and is highly conserved among land plants but missing from the Rafflesiaceae that lack chloroplast genomes. GUN1 genes from C. orbicularis and M. polymorpha suppress the cold‐sensitive phenotype of the Arabidopsis gun1 mutant and restore typical retrograde responses to treatments with inhibitors of plastid translation, even though M. polymorpha responds very differently to such treatments.

Our findings suggest that GUN1 is an ancient protein that evolved within the streptophyte algal ancestors of land plants before the first plants colonized land more than 470 million years ago. Its primary role is likely to be in chloroplast gene expression and its role in chloroplast retrograde signalling probably evolved more recently.