bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functions and origins of cardiac fat
Authors: Lu Zhengkai , Jiang Zhen , Tang Juan , Lin Chao‐Po , Zhang Hui
Published: February 2022

Triglyceride droplets can be stored within cardiac adipocytes (CAs) and cardiomyocytes in the heart. Cardiac adipocytes reside in three distinct regions: pericardial, epicardial, and intramyocardial adipose tissues. In healthy individuals, cardiac adipose tissues modulate cardiovascular functions and energy partitioning, which are, thus, protective. However, ectopic deposition of cardiac adipose tissues turns them into adverse lipotoxic, prothrombotic, and pro‐inflammatory tissues with local and systemic contribution to the development of cardiovascular disorders. Accumulation of triglyceride droplets in cardiomyocytes may lead to lipotoxic injury of cardiomyocytes and contribute to the development of cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction. Here, we summarize the roles of CAs and myocardial triglyceride droplets under physiological and pathological conditions and review the cellular sources of CAs in heart development and diseases. Understanding the functions and cellular origins of cardiac fat will provide clues for future studies on pathophysiological processes and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Does growing atmospheric CO2 explain increasing carbon sink in a boreal coniferous forest?
Authors: Launiainen Samuli , Katul Gabriel G. , Leppä Kersti , Kolari Pasi , Aslan Toprak , Grönholm Tiia , Korhonen Lauri , Mammarella Ivan , Vesala Timo
Published: February 2022

The terrestrial net ecosystem productivity (NEP) has increased during the past three decades, but the mechanisms responsible are still unclear. We analyzed 17 years (2001–2017) of eddy‐covariance measurements of NEP, evapotranspiration (ET) and light and water use efficiency from a boreal coniferous forest in Southern Finland for trends and inter‐annual variability (IAV). The forest was a mean annual carbon sink (252 [42] gC ), and NEP increased at rate +6.4–7.0 gC (or ca. +2.5% ) during the period. This was attributed to the increasing gross‐primary productivity GPP and occurred without detectable change in ET. The start of annual carbon uptake period was advanced by 0.7 d , and increase in GPP and NEP outside the main growing season contributed ca. one‐third and one‐fourth of the annual trend, respectively. Meteorological factors were responsible for the IAV of fluxes but did not explain the long‐term trends. The growing season GPP trend was strongest in ample light during the peak growing season. Using a multi‐layer ecosystem model, we showed that direct fertilization effect diminishes when moving from leaf to ecosystem, and only 30–40% of the observed ecosystem GPP increase could be attributed to . The increasing trend in leaf‐area index (LAI), stimulated by forest thinning in 2002, was the main driver of the enhanced GPP and NEP of the mid‐rotation managed forest. It also compensated for the decrease of mean leaf stomatal conductance with increasing and LAI, explaining the apparent proportionality between observed GPP and trends. The results emphasize that attributing trends to their physical and physiological drivers is challenged by strong IAV, and uncertainty of LAI and species composition changes due to the dynamic flux footprint. The results enlighten the underlying mechanisms responsible for the increasing terrestrial carbon uptake in the boreal zone.
Push and pull factors in Tunisian internal migration: The role of human capital
Authors: Laajimi Rawaa , Le Gallo Julie
Published: February 2022

This paper examines the pull and push factors of interregional flows in Tunisia, focusing on the role of differences in human capital. Using data from the 2004 and 2014 Tunisian censuses, we estimate a gravity model augmented with proxies capturing high‐ and low‐skilled level human capital and an original nighttime light proxy for regional GPD. We consider both unemployment rate differential and road distance as multilateral resistance variables, and we add cultural and quality of life variables. We find that the macroeconomic variables are the main determinants of interregional flows. As for human capital, high skilled level acts as a pull factor while low skilled level acts as a restraining factor in the destination regions. Furthermore, non‐economic variables have a significant impact on migration flows: Tunisians leave their origin regions not only in search of job opportunities but also in search of better living conditions.
Effect of caffeine and caffeine cessation on cerebrovascular reactivity in patients with migraine
Authors: Gil Young‐Eun , Lee Mi Ji , Cho Soohyun , Chung Chin‐Sang
Published: February 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of chronic caffeine use and caffeine cessation on vasodilatory function in the posterior circulation in patients with migraine.

Background

Studies regarding cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) using vasodilatory stimuli in patients with migraine have yielded conflicting results. We postulated that CVR may not be static, and caffeine might negatively affect vasodilatory function via its vasoconstrictive effect.

Methods

In this prospective longitudinal observation study, we recruited patients with episodic migraine who were 18–50 years of age and free of vascular risk factors at the Samsung Medical Center between August 2015 and March 2020. Patients were classified into caffeine users and non‐users at baseline, and caffeine users were instructed to discontinue caffeine intake. We measured the mean breath‐holding index (BHI) of bilateral posterior cerebral arteries (PCA) using transcranial Doppler in all the included patients at baseline and followed up after 3 months. We compared breath‐holding indices cross‐sectionally between caffeine users and non‐users and analyzed BHI changes according to caffeine cessation.

Results

In total, 84 patients completed the study protocol. Cross‐sectional analysis showed that the baseline BHI of PCA was lower in caffeine users (n = 56, 1.1 [interquartile range (IQR) 0.8–1.3]) than that in nonusers (n = 28, 1.3 [IQR 1.0–1.5], p = 0.030). In the longitudinal analysis, caffeine quitters showed a significant improvement in BHI in PCA (baseline 1.1 [IQR 0.8–1.2], follow‐up 1.3 [IQR 1.0–1.4], p = 0.034), whereas continuous users and non‐users did not. Multivariable analysis showed an independent effect of caffeine cessation on the changes in BHI of PCA (unstandardized β = 0.27, 95% confidence interval 0.01–0.53, p = 0.044).

Conclusion

In patients with migraine, caffeine use is associated with reduced CVR in the posterior circulation, and caffeine cessation might be beneficial in improving CVR.
Inhibition of endogenous protease activity and protection of histomorphical integrity during refrigerated storage of grass carp fillets by treatment with natural edible di‐ and tri‐carboxylic acids
Authors: Ge Lihong , Huang Yuli , Ma Qian , Wang Yu , Yang Rui , Yang Xinyu , Chen Yan , Miao Yuzhi , Zuo Yong
Published: February 2022

In this study, by dipping grass carp fillets with 10 mM di‐ and tri‐carboxylic acid solutions individually before storage at 4 °C for 10 days, the application potential of these acids in mitigating softening of fish was investigated through analysing shear force, pH, endogenous cathepsin activities, myofibrillar proteolysis and histomorphological characteristics. The results suggested that maleic acid, fumaric acid and tartaric acid were significantly effective against softening of grass carp muscle, as shown by shear force 26%–31% higher than that of control after storage. Acid treatments led to a decline in the pH of muscle. Besides, the inhibitory effect of these acids on cathepsins was demonstrated by activity reduction by 20%–90%. Further, sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and heat shock protein (HSP) analysis supported the protection of these acids against degradation and dissociation of myosin and actin through suppressing HSP loss. Moreover, histomorphological images with higher intensity of acridine orange fluorescence in muscle revealed the improvement of tissue integrity by acid treatments. The inhibitory potential of these acids in suppressing softening of fish muscle is particularly relevant to their capacity of mitigating cathepsin‐induced proteolysis and improving lysosome stability. Therefore, di‐ and tri‐carboxylic acids could play pleiotropic functions in the quality control of fish fillets.
Epidemiological study of multiple sclerosis in the Illawarra region
Authors: Dal Shoaib R. , Elphick Tiana‐Lee , Fuller Karen
Published: February 2022

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disease that causes significant disabilities. Latest MS epidemiological data in Australia reveal rising prevalence. No epidemiological study of MS has been conducted so far in the Illawarra region.

Aim

To calculate prevalence and incidence of MS in the Illawarra region and compare with data from other regions, states and the national prevalence.

Methods

Data of MS patients in the Illawarra region were collected from hospital medical records, ambulatory care units and hospital pharmacy. Prevalence was calculated for alive MS patients on 30 June 2018 expressed per 100 000 population. Yearly adjusted incidence rate was calculated for 10 years (2009–2019), expressed as cases per 100 000 population‐years.

Results

Estimated MS prevalence in the Illawarra region was 116.6 per 100 000 population with yearly incidence (2009–2019) of 5.06 cases per 100 000 population‐years (female to male, 3:1). Relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) was the most common type (277/397; 69.7%) with primary progressive MS (PPMS) in 52/397 (13%), and secondary progressive MS (SPMS) in 45/397 (11.3%; unknown in 23). The commonest age at diagnosis ranged between 30 and 39 years for all types with RRMS and PPMS between 30–39 years and 40–49 years respectively. The most common recorded treatment was natalizumab (103 patients), followed by fingolimod (82 patients) and interferon (58 patients).

Conclusion

The calculated MS prevalence in the Illawarra region is higher than New South Wales and the Australian average MS prevalence. Further epidemiological studies focussing on MS risk factors and other factors bearing on MS prevalence in the Illawarra region are required.
Midwives' experiences and perceptions in treating victims of sex trafficking: A qualitative study
Authors: Ruiz‐Gonzalez Cristofer , Roman Pablo , Benayas‐Perez Natalia , Rodriguez‐Arrastia Miguel , Ropero‐Padilla Carmen , Ruiz‐Gonzalez David , Sanchez‐Labraca Nuria
Published: February 2022

Aim

To explore the experiences and perceptions of midwives in the treatment of sex trafficking victims.

Design

The study was qualitative with a hermeneutic‐phenomenological approach, using semi‐structured interviews and focus groups.

Methods

Two focus groups and six interviews were carried out on 14 midwives in primary care, delivery and emergency rooms. Data were collected in three hospitals in Spain in June 2021. ATLAS.ti 9 software was used to conduct a content analysis of the focus group and interview data.

Results

The results revealed two primary themes and six subthemes. The two primary themes were (i) sex trafficking: a camouflaged reality on the invisible spectrum, and (ii) a thirst for attention in the aftermath of violence. Representative quotations were used to illustrate both the main themes and the subthemes.

Conclusions

This study provides new insight into midwives' experiences treating sex trafficking victims. Professionals view this type of violence as a silent issue that negatively impacts victims' health and livelihood. However, a number of different factors stand in the way of correctly identifying and treating victims. Therefore, healthcare workers must be provided with practical tools and continuous professional development on this topic.

Impact

This study indicates the importance of the midwives' key role in identifying and assisting victims of sex. Not only do measures in the healthcare setting, such as on‐going specific‐related content training or up‐to‐date protocols, need to be implemented to ensure proper care for those affected by sexual exploitation, but also focusing on suspicious characteristics and reducing obstacles to patient communication will help bring the true situation to light and better respond to patients' priority needs.
What Is Wrong with ‘All Lives Matter’? What and How ‘Black Lives Matter’ Means
Authors: Clapp Lenny
Published: February 2022

I use a simplified version of Stalnaker's model of conversation to provide an explanation of what and how speakers who utter ‘Black lives matter’ mean. My explanation reveals that such utterances prompt an under‐appreciated form of presupposition accommodation, which I dub negative accommodation. I demonstrate with an analogous example how by exploiting an interpreter's ability to negatively accommodate an otherwise infelicitous utterance, a speaker can express a criticism of her addressee's actions. This analysis explains how an activist who pronounces ‘Black lives matter’ expresses a charge of moral hypocrisy: despite our collective presupposition that all lives matter, we act as if we do not believe that Black lives matter. I then use this account to explain why using ‘All lives matter’ to repudiate such a pronouncement of ‘Black lives matter’ is plausibly characterized as racist.
Reparations to the Privileged?
Authors: Kogelmann Brian
Published: February 2022

Many believe that we owe reparations to groups who suffered significant injustice in the past. Oftentimes, groups who suffered historical injustice are not very well off today, especially when compared to the groups who imposed the injustice on them. However, in some cases, groups who suffered historical injustice are better off today than the groups who imposed the injustice on them. Under these circumstances, ought the now‐better‐off group who suffered historical injustice receive reparations from the now‐worse‐off group who were historical oppressors? Many will think not. Problematically, most of our current theories of reparations, I demonstrate, imply that worse‐off groups must pay reparations to better‐off groups, if the worse‐off group committed a serious injustice against the better‐off group in the past. Those theories that avoid this conclusion do so only by severely limiting when reparations are owed generally, leading them to counterintuitive results in more ordinary cases.
Periodontal disease and incident prediabetes and diabetes: The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Laniado Nadia , Khambaty Tasneem , Hua Simin , Kaplan Robert , Llabre Maria M. , Schneiderman Neil , Singer Richard H. , Qi Qibin , Cai Jianwen , Finlayson Tracy L. , Whalen Adam M. , Isasi Carmen R.
Published: February 2022

Aim

To examine whether baseline periodontal disease is independently associated with incident prediabetes and incident diabetes in Hispanics/Latinos in the United States.

Materials and Methods

This study examined 7827 individuals, 18–74 years of age without diabetes, from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. Participants received a full‐mouth periodontal examination at baseline (2008–2011), and the disease was classified using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/American Academy of Periodontology case definitions. At Visit 2 (2014–2017), incident prediabetes and diabetes were assessed using multiple standard procedures including blood tests. Multivariable survey Poisson regressions estimated the rate ratio (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of incident prediabetes and incident diabetes associated with periodontal disease severity.

Results

Among the individuals without prediabetes or diabetes at baseline, 38.8% (n = 1553) had developed prediabetes and 2.2% (n = 87) had developed diabetes after 6 years. Nineteen percent (n = 727) of individuals with prediabetes at baseline developed diabetes after 6 years. Adjusting for all potential confounders, no significant association was found between periodontal disease severity and either incident prediabetes (RR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.82–1.06) or incident diabetes (RR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.80–1.22).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that among a diverse cohort of Hispanic/Latino individuals living in the United States, there was no association between periodontal disease severity and the development of either prediabetes or diabetes during a 6‐year follow‐up period.
Efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: A subgroup analysis by baseline variables in the PIONEER 9 and PIONEER 10 trials
Authors: Yabe Daisuke , Deenadayalan Srikanth , Horio Hiroshi , Kaneto Hideaki , Jensen Thomas Bo , Terauchi Yasuo , Yamada Yuichiro , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: February 2022

Aims/Introduction

To assess the impact of baseline characteristics on the efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

In the Peptide InnOvatioN for Early diabEtes tReatment (PIONEER) 9 and 10 trials, Japanese patients were randomized to once‐daily oral semaglutide (3, 7, or 14 mg) or a comparator (placebo or once‐daily subcutaneous liraglutide 0.9 mg in PIONEER 9; once‐weekly subcutaneous dulaglutide 0.75 mg in PIONEER 10) for 52 weeks, with 5 weeks of follow up. An exploratory analysis grouped patients in each trial according to baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c; ≤8.0, >8.0–≤9.0, or >9.0%), body mass index (<25, ≥25–<30, or ≥30 kg/m2) and, for PIONEER 10 only, by background medication (sulfonylurea, glinide, thiazolidinedione, α‐glucosidase inhibitor, sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor). Efficacy (changes from baseline to week 26 in HbA1c and bodyweight) and safety were assessed.

Results

Seven hundred and one patients were included (PIONEER 9: N = 243; PIONEER 10: N = 458). In both trials, HbA1c reductions increased as baseline HbA1c increased; there were no other apparent patterns between the variables investigated and HbA1c or bodyweight changes. There was one statistically significant subgroup interaction between baseline HbA1c and estimated treatment differences in bodyweight change for oral semaglutide 14 mg versus placebo in PIONEER 9 (P = 0.0286). Baseline HbA1c, baseline body mass index and background medication did not appear to affect the proportions of patients reporting adverse events.

Conclusions

Oral semaglutide is effective across a range of baseline subgroups of Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes, with no unexpected safety findings.
Effect of phenolic compounds and cold shock on survival and virulence of Escherichia coli pathotypes
Authors: Ríos‐López Ana L. , Heredia Norma , García Santos , Merino‐Mascorro José Á. , Solís‐Soto Luisa Y. , Dávila‐Aviña Jorge E.
Published: February 2022

Phenolic compounds (PC) affect many metabolic processes of microbes; however, there is no information about their effectiveness when these act in combination with low temperatures for the control of Escherichia coli pathotypes. In this study, four PC, (tannic acid [TA], gallic acid [GA], methyl gallate [MG], and epigallocatechin gallate [EG]) in combination with cold shock (CS, 10°C) were evaluated for their effect on growth, swarming motility, biofilm formation, and expression of selected virulence‐related genes of E. coli pathotypes [enteropathogenic (EPEC), enterohemorrhagic (EHEC), and enterotoxigenic (ETEC)]. Subinhibitory concentrations of the PC were used alone (37°C) or in combination with CS. For CS assays, E. coli strains were grown at 37°C until mid‐log phase and then subjected to 10°C for 4 hr. Membrane damage was determined by flow cytometry; swarming motility was measured on soft‐LB agar, biofilm formation was analyzed by crystal violet staining, and gene expression of CS, biofilm, and swarming motility related‐genes was determined by qPCR. Subinhibitory concentrations of the PC did not affect the viability of the strains. The combination of CS + TA provoked the highest (p ≤ .05) mortality in all pathotypes. CS + GA inhibited (100%) the motility of EHEC and ETEC. PC and CS + PC reduced (p ≤ .05) biofilm formation. The combination of PC and CS affected virulence factors and their gene expression of pathogenic E. coli presenting a novel alternative for its control in foods.
Effectiveness of aromatherapy for intrapartum and postpartum emotional problems among parturient women: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hu Tsung‐Ming , Lee Szu‐Han , Loh El‐Wui
Published: February 2022

Aim

Perinatal negative emotions are common in parturient women, but the problems are often ignored. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effectiveness of aromatherapy for intrapartum anxiety (IPA) and postpartum emotional symptoms (PES).

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify suitable RCTs for analysis, and the study was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses.

Results

Nine RCTs were included. The meta‐analysis showed aromatherapy reduced IPA during the early to active phase (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −1.56 [−2.55, −0.61]) and during the transition phase (SMD: −3.30 [−4.97, −1.63]) when compared with controls. For the postpartum period, the meta‐analyses showed a reduction of postpartum depression (PPD) at week 2 (SMD: −0.43 [−0.82, −0.03]), and a non‐significant trend toward the reduction of PPD at weeks 4–6 (SMD: −0.70 [−1.40, 0.01]).

Conclusion

Our study found some evidence supporting the effectiveness of aromatherapy in reducing intrapartum anxiety and PES. We recommend the optional use of aromatherapy for intrapartum and postpartum care.
Ultrahigh temperature metamorphism and isobaric cooling of Neoarchean ultramafic‐mafic granulites in the southern granulite terrain, India: Phase equilibrium modelling and SHRIMP zircon U–Pb dating
Authors: Gou Long‐Long , Zhai Ming‐Guo , Zhang Cheng‐Li , George Paul Mathews , Lu Jun‐Sheng , Zhao Yan , Ao Wen‐Hao , Hu Yu‐Hua , Zi Jian‐Wei , Zhou Feng
Published: February 2022

This study presents the results of petrology, SHRIMP zircon U–Pb analysis, conventional Fe–Mg geothermobarometry, REE (rare earth element)‐based geothermobarometry, and phase equilibrium modelling, for newly discovered ultramafic‐mafic granulites (garnet pyroxenite with minor plagioclase and garnet‐bearing granulite) in the Namakkal Block of the southern granulite terrain (SGT), India. Results from this study shed light on the growth, evolution, and thermal state of lower continental crust during the Neoarchean, as a cross‐section of the Archean lower continental crust is well‐exposed in the SGT. SHRIMP zircon U–Pb dating of a garnet pyroxenite sample (18ID‐41) yielded a weighted mean 207Pb/206Pb age of 2531 ± 6 Ma, which is the same within uncertainty as one weighted mean SHRIMP metamorphic zircon 207Pb/206Pb age of 2519 ± 9 Ma from mafic granulite sample (18ID‐43). In addition, zircon U–Pb analyses also yielded an apparent 207Pb/206Pb age of 2474 ± 3 Ma (1σ) for the garnet pyroxenite, and a weighted mean 207Pb/206Pb age of 2489 ± 8 Ma for the mafic granulite. Thus, the timing of metamorphism of the ultramafic‐mafic granulites was constrained to be ca. 2530–2470 Ma. The peak metamorphic phase assemblage of the garnet pyroxenite is grt–cpx–pl–ilm–liq, which was modelled to be stable at 1058–1172°C/7.8–11.6 kbar, whereas the retrograde mineral assemblage of grt–cpx–hbl–pl–qz–ilm–liq occurred at 877–888°C/9.9–11 kbar. The mafic granulite was demonstrated to record similar peak and retrograde metamorphic P–T conditions to those of the garnet pyroxenite but have a relatively small P–T range of the peak mineral assemblage. The ultrahigh temperature metamorphism of these ultramafic‐mafic granulites was further confirmed by the temperature results (1057–1087°C) from the REE‐in‐two‐pyroxene thermometer. As a result, a retrograde metamorphic P–T path characterized by near‐isobaric cooling from ~1080°C at ~10 kbar to ~900°C at ~10 kbar was constructed for these rocks, which is consistent with an extremely high thermal state that persisted for ca. 60 Ma in the lower crust.
PCSK9 inhibition with alirocumab decreases plasma lipoprotein(a) concentration by a dual mechanism of action in statin‐treated patients with very high apolipoprotein(a) concentration
Authors: Ying Qidi , Chan Dick C. , Pang Jing , Marcovina Santica M. , Barrett Peter Hugh R. , Watts Gerald F.
Published: February 2022

Background

Inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 with alirocumab decreases plasma lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels. The kinetic mechanism for lowering Lp(a) by alirocumab may differ according to pre‐treatment apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] levels.

Methods

The effect of 12‐week alirocumab (150 mg subcutaneously fortnightly) on the kinetics of apo(a) was compared in statin‐treated patients with high (n = 10) and very high Lp(a) concentrations (n = 11).

Results

In patients with high apo(a) concentrations, alirocumab lowered plasma apo(a) pool size (–17%, p < 0.01) chiefly by increasing the fractional catabolic rate (FCR) of apo(a) (+27%, p < 0.001). By contrast in patients with very high apo(a) concentrations, alirocumab significantly lowered plasma apo(a) pool size (–32%, p < 0.001) by both increasing apo(a) FCR (+30%, p < 0.001) and lowering production rate (–11%, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In statin‐treated patients with very high apo(a) concentrations, alirocumab lowers plasma Lp(a) concentration by a dual mode of action that increases the clearance and decreases the production of Lp(a) particles.
Scoring of medial arterial calcification predicts cardiovascular events and mortality after kidney transplantation
Authors: Erlandsson Helen , Qureshi Abdul Rashid , Ripsweden Jonaz , Haugen Löfman Ida , Söderberg Magnus , Wennberg Lars , Lundgren Torbjörn , Bruchfeld Annette , Brismar Torkel B. , Stenvinkel Peter
Published: February 2022

Background

Progression of vascular calcification causes cardiovascular disease, which is the most common cause of death in chronic kidney failure and after kidney transplantation (KT). The prognostic impact of the extent of medial vascular calcification at KT is unknown.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, we investigated the impact of medial calcification compared to a mix of intimal and medial calcification represented by coronary artery calcification (CAC score) and aortic valve calcification in 342 patients starting on kidney failure replacement therapy. The primary outcomes were cardiovascular events (CVE) and death. The median follow‐up time was 6.4 years (interquartile range 3.7–9.6 years). Exposure was CAC score and arteria epigastrica medial calcification scored as none, mild, moderate, or severe by a pathologist at time of KT (n = 200). We divided the patients according to kidney failure replacement therapy during follow‐up, that is, living donor KT, deceased donor KT, or dialysis.

Results

Moderate to severe medial calcification in the arteria epigastrica was associated with higher mortality (p = 0.001), and the hazard ratio for CVE was 3.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–9.02, p < 0.05) compared to no or mild medial calcification. The hazard ratio for 10‐year mortality in the dialysis group was 33.6 (95% CI, 10.0–113.0, p < 0.001) compared to living donor recipients, independent of Framingham risk score and prevalent CAC.

Conclusion

Scoring of medial calcification in the arteria epigastrica identified living donor recipients as having 3.1 times higher risk of CVE, independent of traditional risk factors. The medial calcification score could be a reliable method to identify patients with high and low risk of CVE and mortality following KT.
Consumers better explained drivers of liking for products containing complex flavor with subtle differences than trained panelists: Comparison between consumer‐driven free‐comment analysis and descriptive analysis of tomato sauce with added garlic flavorings
Authors: Park Sang‐Hee , Lee Soo‐Hyun , Seo Won‐Ho , Shin Woojin , Hong Jae‐Hee
Published: February 2022

Owing to difficulties associated with profiling and differentiation, it is challenging to identify drivers of liking of samples that contain complex flavor but have subtle differences. This study compared the efficacy of free‐comment (FC) analysis with descriptive analysis (DA) for profiling the sensory characteristics of tomato sauce with added garlic flavoring to identify the drivers of liking. Seven garlic tomato sauce samples were prepared by the addition of different garlic flavorings or crushed garlic. FC was conducted using 82 consumer panelists and DA was performed using eight trained panelists. Compared with the DA, the FC revealed the differences between samples better by using the concepts relevant to consumers and the descriptors with hedonic connotations. FC better identified the drivers of liking for the products with subtle differences, particularly in odor and flavor, but the standardized descriptors of DA could not sufficiently explain them due to a poor correlation with liking.

Practical applications

As the consumer demand for healthful yet flavorful foods increases, the flavors of foods need to be finely adjusted using flavorings to meet consumer expectation. This can cause subtle changes in flavors that may be recognized but are not easy to verbalize or to distinguish, even by trained panelists. In such cases, it is difficult to derive the sensory determinants of liking that may be critical to guide product development. This study compared FC and DA to examine if the more spontaneous and richer descriptions obtained from FC could efficiently profile sample sets with subtle flavor differences. This study will aid the selection of efficient profiling methods for products with complex flavors.
Evaluation of the nutrients supplied by veterinary diets commercialized in Brazil for obese dogs undergoing a weight loss program
Authors: Olivindo Rodrigo F. G. , Zafalon Rafael V. A. , Teixeira Fabio Alves , Vendramini Thiago Henrique Annibale , Pedrinelli Vivian , Brunetto Marcio Antonio
Published: February 2022

During a weight loss program, energy restriction is performed, which can result in nutrient intake below the minimum recommendations if a proper diet is not offered. A common recommendation for dogs undergoing energy restriction is to use a veterinary diet formulated for the management of obesity to potentially reduce the likelihood of nutritional deficiencies. The objective of this study was to perform bromatological and essential mineral analysis in veterinary diets for the management of canine obesity available in the Brazilian market and to analyse whether these diets provide the recommended amount of nutrients per kg of metabolic body weight (kg BW0.75) for animals undergoing energy restriction. Samples of all veterinary diets for the management of canine obesity available in the Brazilian pet food market were analysed (n = 8). The nutrient supply per kg BW0.75was calculated and compared with the NRC recommended allowance and FEDIAF recommendations by descriptive statistics. For this purpose, the weight loss energy requirement equations of 70 kcal/target body weight0.75and 63 kcal/target body weight0.75were used, in which target body weight corresponds to 10%–40% of the initial body weight according to the body condition score. The manufacturers’ intake recommendations were also evaluated and compared to the NRC and FEDIAF recommendations. Almost all of the diets (n = 7/8) had at least one nutrient below the NRC and FEDIAF recommendations when target weight of minus 10%, 20% or 30% was considered, and all diets had at least one nutrient deficiency when the target weight was minus 40%. When the energy intake was restricted a further 10%, all diets had at least one nutrient below recommendations at the minus 30% target weight. The nutrients for which the recommendations were not met were as follows: calcium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, sodium, protein and fat. When compared to the manufacturers’ recommendations, nutrient deficiencies were observed in all of the diets when compared to the NRC and in 7/8 when compared to FEDIAF, and all diets had at least one deficiency when compared to both NRC and FEDIAF after an extra 10% calorie restriction. It was concluded that the majority of veterinary diets formulated for weight loss/obesity management in Brazil did not meet all the recommendations of the analysed nutrients, which reinforces that diets for weight loss should be used according to veterinary prescription and should ideally be prescribed by nutrition specialists that can better understand the limitations of the diet's composition.
An autopsy case of Alzheimer's disease with amygdala‐predominant Lewy pathology presenting with frontotemporal dementia‐like psychiatric symptoms
Authors: Beck Goichi , Shigenobu Kazue , Ukon Koto , Yamashita Rika , Yonenobu Yuki , Morii Eiichi , Hasegawa Masato , Ikeda Manabu , Murayama Shigeo , Mochizuki Hideki
Published: February 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are progressive neurodegenerative diseases associated with several cognitive and behavioral symptoms. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish AD from FTD in a patient because both of them can exhibit clinical overlap. In the present study, we report a case of a patient who showed sychiatric symptoms mimicking the behavioral variant of FTD (bvFTD) and combined AD amygdala‐predominant Lewy pathologies on autopsy. The patient was a Japanese man who developed personality changes in his late 50s, presenting with obsessive‐compulsive stereotypical behavior, stereotypy of speech, behavioral disinhibition, inertia, loss of empathy or sympathy, change in eating habits, and stimulus‐bound behavior. He also frequently left during medical examinations. Eventually, he was clinically diagnosed as having possible bvFTD, according to the International Consensus Criteria for bvFTD. The patient died of systemic metastasis of gastric cancer at 69 years of age. Postmortem neuropathological examination revealed severe AD pathology (Braak Amyloid stage C, Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease [CERAD] stage C, Thal phase 5, and Braak AT8 stage IV) along with Lewy pathology and argyrophilic grains, predominantly in the amygdala. Furthermore, no transactivation response DNA‐binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43) pathology was observed. Our results suggest that a combination of these pathologies causes bvFTD‐like cognitive and behavioral symptoms. This case is very insightful when considering the lesions responsible for the psychiatric symptoms characteristic of bvFTD.
Degradation of de‐esterified pctin/homogalacturonan by the polygalacturonase GhNSP is necessary for pollen exine formation and male fertility in cotton
Authors: Wu Yuanlong , Li Xiao , Li Yanlong , Ma Huanhuan , Chi Huabin , Ma Yizan , Yang Jing , Xie Sai , Zhang Rui , Liu Linying , Su Xiaojun , Lv Rongjie , Khan Aamir Hamid , Kong Jie , Guo Xiaoping , Lindsey Keith , Min Ling , Zhang Xianlong
Published: February 2022

The pollen wall exine provides a protective layer for the male gametophyte and is largely composed of sporopollenin, which comprises fatty acid derivatives and phenolics. However, the biochemical nature of the external exine is poorly understood. Here, we show that the male sterile line 1355A of cotton mutated in NO SPINE POLLEN (GhNSP) leads to defective exine formation. The GhNSP locus was identified through map‐based cloning and confirmed by genetic analysis (co‐segregation test and allele prediction using the CRISPR/Cas9 system). In situ hybridization showed that GhNSP is highly expressed in tapetum. GhNSP encodes a polygalacturonase protein homologous to AtQRT3, which suggests a function for polygalacturonase in pollen exine formation. These results indicate that GhNSP is functionally different from AtQRT3, the latter has the function of microspore separation. Biochemical analysis showed that the percentage of de‐esterified pectin was significantly increased in the 1355A anthers at developmental stage 8. Furthermore, immunofluorescence studies using antibodies to the de‐esterified and esterified homogalacturonan (JIM5 and JIM7) showed that the Ghnsp mutant exhibits abundant of de‐esterified homogalacturonan in the tapetum and exine, coupled with defective exine formation. The characterization of GhNSP provides new understanding of the role of polygalacturonase and de‐esterified homogalacturonan in pollen exine formation.
Artificial microRNA guide strand selection from duplexes with no mismatches shows a purine‐rich preference for virus‐ and non‐virus‐based expression vectors in plants
Authors: Kuo Yen‐Wen , Falk Bryce W.
Published: February 2022

Artificial microRNA (amiRNA) technology has allowed researchers to direct efficient silencing of specific transcripts using as few as 21 nucleotides (nt). However, not all the artificially designed amiRNA constructs result in selection of the intended ~21‐nt guide strand amiRNA. Selection of the miRNA guide strand from the mature miRNA duplex has been studied in detail in human and insect systems, but not so much for plants. Here, we compared a nuclear‐replicating DNA viral vector (tomato mottle virus, ToMoV, based), a cytoplasmic‐replicating RNA viral vector (tobacco mosaic virus, TMV, based), and a non‐viral binary vector to express amiRNAs in plants. We then used deep sequencing and mutational analysis and show that when the structural factors caused by base mismatches in the mature amiRNA duplex were excluded, the nucleotide composition of the mature amiRNA region determined the guide strand selection. We found that the strand with excess purines was preferentially selected as the guide strand and the artificial miRNAs that had no mismatches in the amiRNA duplex were predominantly loaded into AGO2 instead of loading into AGO1 like the majority of the plant endogenous miRNAs. By performing assays for target effects, we also showed that only when the intended strand was selected as the guide strand and showed AGO loading, the amiRNA could provide the expected RNAi effects. Thus, by removing mismatches in the mature amiRNA duplex and designing the intended guide strand to contain excess purines provide better control of the guide strand selection of amiRNAs for functional RNAi effects.
When does self‐interest distort moral belief?
Authors: Smyth Nicholas
Published: February 2022

In this paper, I critically analyze the notion that self‐interest distorts moral belief‐formation. This belief is widely shared among modern moral epistemologists, and in this paper, I seek to undermine this near consensus. I then offer a principle which can help us to sort cases in which self‐interest distorts moral belief from cases in which it does not. As it turns out, we cannot determine whether such distortion has occurred from the armchair; rather, we must inquire into mechanisms of social power and advantage before declaring that some moral position is distorted by self‐interest.
Relational coupling of multiple streams: The case of COVID‐19 infections in German abattoirs
Authors: Möck Malte , Vogeler Colette S. , Bandelow Nils C. , Hornung Johanna
Published: February 2022

After a series of COVID‐19 outbreaks among employees in the German meat‐processing industry, the Work Safety Control Act protecting these workers made it on the government's agenda in July 2020. From a Multiple Streams perspective, local corona hotspots may be understood as policy windows for introducing respective measures. However, this alone is not sufficient to explain agenda setting. This study investigates the coupling of streams within policy windows. Introducing the notion of relational coupling to the MSF research agenda, discourse network analysis provides a new methodology to reveal entrepreneurial activities. Studying the German mass media discourse on the issue identifies two stages: (1) An initial problem brokerage without coupling of core policies, followed by (2) a coupling across all streams based on a focusing event. We argue that relational coupling allows for an enhanced understanding of agenda setting.
Establishing new grasslands on crop fields: short‐term development of plant and arthropod communities
Authors: Hussain Raja I. , Brandl Manuela , Maas Bea , Krautzer Bernhard , Frank Thomas , Moser Dietmar
Published: February 2022

Establishment of semi‐natural grasslands offers a valuable approach to the conservation of threatened grassland biodiversity. We established new grassland strips on former crop fields adjacent to old semi‐natural grasslands and monitored the development of plant, carabid, spider, and wild bee communities over 3 years. The studied plant and arthropods communities were significantly different between newly established grassland strips and old grassland. Our results suggest that restoring plant and arthropod communities takes longer than 3 years to become similar to old semi‐natural grasslands.
Is it time to use HFNC oxygen therapy during exercise in IPF patients?
Authors: Ruggeri Paolo , Esquinas Antonio
Published: February 2022

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Conundrums in the breathless athlete; exercise‐induced laryngeal obstruction or asthma?
Authors: Jansrud Hammer Ida , Halvorsen Thomas , Vollsæter Maria , Hilland Magnus , Heimdal John‐Helge , Røksund Ola Drange , Clemm Hege Havstad
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) and exercise‐induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) are the two disorders commonly considered when athletes complain of exertional dyspnea. They are highly different but often confused. We aimed to address this diagnostic challenge and its consequences in elite athletes.

Methods

We included all athletes competing at national or international level, referred to our institution for workup for EILO during 2013–2016. We diagnosed EILO from video‐recorded laryngoscopy performed during maximal cardiopulmonary treadmill exercise (CLE test). Symptoms and previous diagnostic evaluations were obtained from referral letters and chart reviews.

Results

Exercise‐induced laryngeal obstruction was diagnosed in 73/101 referred athletes, of whom 70/73 had moderate/severe supraglottic obstruction and 3/73 had primarily glottic obstruction with only minor supraglottic involvement. Of the 73 athletes with EILO, we were able to identify objective tests for asthma in 55 participants, of whom 22 had findings supporting asthma. However, 58/73 had used asthma therapy at some time previously, with current use in 28. Only three reported that asthma medication had improved their exercise‐related breathing problems, two of whom with tests confirming asthma. Treatment for EILO improved breathing problems in all but four.

Conclusions

Objective testing verified EILO in most of the referred athletes. EILO coexisting with asthma was common, and large proportions had used asthma medication; however, few reported effect on exercise‐related breathing problems. Unexplained persistent exertional dyspnea must not lead to indiscriminate escalation of asthma treatment, but instead incite investigation for EILO, either as a co‐morbidity or as a differential diagnosis.
Women, work, and opportunities: From neoliberal to feminist mentoring
Authors: Harris Deborah A.
Published: February 2022

Women‐focused mentoring programs are often cited as an important tool to help address gender inequality at work. Despite their popularity, there remain questions about how useful they are at improving women’s career trajectories or transforming gender demographics at the organizational or industry level. A frequent critique of current women‐focused mentoring efforts is that they reflect and uphold neoliberal feminism and have shifted from collective support to an individualized focus on competition and accruing human and social capital. These programs encourage women to internalize neoliberal subjectivities and prescribe individual change while shoring up ideas about meritocracy that are utterly divorced from gender. I discuss how feminist mentoring, which takes central tenets of feminism including focusing on collective action and organizational change, can serve as a countermeasure to neoliberal feminism and how this form of mentorship can help address gender inequality at work.
A critical review of cost‐effectiveness research in children's social care: What have we learnt so far?
Authors: Suh Ellie , Holmes Lisa
Published: February 2022

This article presents the findings from a critical review of cost‐effectiveness research in children's social care. With a focus on the past 20 years (since 2000), the review aims to assess the use and consistency of definitions relevant to evaluating cost‐effectiveness such as financial input (costs) and outcomes, and to review and summarise learnings from cost‐effectiveness studies in the English children's social care system. We included both academic and grey literature and identified 61 relevant publications for inclusion. The results are organised according to three themes: costs, outcomes and cost‐effectiveness. We identified that a large proportion of studies contained a discussion on cost, spend or unit cost, and an equal proportion of articles concerned outcomes of service, benefit to children or quality of service provided. The number of studies discussing cost‐effectiveness, cost–benefit or economic evaluation was considerably smaller. The findings highlight substantial gaps in the literature, with a disproportionate focus on stating the problem in terms of cost pressures, and very little robust evidence about cost‐effectiveness. Furthermore, the article sets out methodological limitations and indicates a lack of transparency in many of the report studies. We conclude that as a result of the gaps and limitations it is difficult for policymakers and other stakeholders in children's services to make evidence‐informed decisions about the best use of their limited resources.
Detrital apatite Lu–Hf and U–Pb geochronology applied to the southwestern Siberian margin
Authors: Glorie Stijn , Gillespie Jack , Simpson Alexander , Gilbert Sarah , Khudoley Andrei , Priyatkina Nadezhda , Hand Martin , Kirkland Christopher L.
Published: February 2022

Apatite is increasingly used in sedimentary provenance studies. However, detrital apatite U–Pb geochronology can be challenging due to the presence of non‐radiogenic Pb, its intermediate closure temperature (~350–550°C) and/or age‐resetting by metamorphic/metasomatic processes. The Lu–Hf system in apatite has a higher closure temperature (~675–750°C) and is, therefore, more robust to thermal resetting. Here we present the first detrital apatite Lu–Hf age spectra. We have developed a laser‐ablation Lu–Hf dating technique, using reaction‐cell mass spectrometry, that allows rapid cost‐effective analysis, required for detrital apatite studies. The method is best suited to Precambrian detritus, permitting greater radiogenic Hf ingrowth. Using samples from Siberia, we demonstrate: (1) excellent correlations between U–Pb and Lu–Hf dates for apatites from igneous protoliths; and (2) that Lu–Hf dating can detect primary age information in metamorphic grains. Hence, when used in tandem with U–Pb zircon and apatite geochronology, Lu–Hf apatite dating provides a powerful new tool for provenance studies.
Producer service foreign direct investment and pollution in China
Authors: Chen Bo , Wang Han , Zhou Jishun
Published: February 2022

The impacts of services, especially the producer services, on pollution have received little attention so far. In this paper, we propose the hypotheses that producer service foreign direct investment (PS FDI) would have direct impact on pollution, in a way that is similar to manufacturing activities. We test our hypotheses using Chinese provincial data from 2008 to 2018. Our findings show that PS FDI does affect pollution in a significant way, and the results remain robust under various tests. We also identify significant mediating effect, whereby PS FDI not only directly affects pollution levels, but also indirectly does so via its impacts on manufacturing activities. Besides localised effect, we show that PS FDI exhibits spatial spillover effect by influencing pollution levels in neighbouring provinces. Finally, we find that manufacturing activities magnify the impact of PS FDI on pollution locally, but mitigate its spatial spillover effect.