bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic apical periodontitis exacerbates atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E‐deficient mice and leads to changes in the diversity of gut microbiota
Authors: Gan Guowu , Lu Beibei , Zhang Ren , Luo Yufang , Chen Shuai , Lei Huaxiang , Li Yijun , Cai Zhiyu , Huang Xiaojing
Published: October 2021

Aim

To investigate the impact of chronic apical periodontitis (CAP) on atherosclerosis and gut microbiota by establishing a Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis)‐induced CAP in an apolipoprotein E‐deficient (apoE−/−) mice model.

Methodology

Twenty‐eight male apoE−/− mice were divided into two groups with 14 in each: CAP group and control group. In the CAP group, sterile cotton wool containing 108 colony‐forming units of P. gingivalis was placed into the pulp chamber after pulp exposure followed by coronal resin filling in bilateral maxillary first and second molars. The mice were fed with a chow diet to induce atherosclerosis. Animals were euthanized 16 weeks after the operation, and the periapical lesions of bilateral maxillary first and second molars were assessed by micro‐CT. After collection of aortic arches, atherosclerotic lesions were measured by Oil Red O staining. Serum levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), total cholesterol (TC), and triglycerides (TG) were measured. Stools were collected to detect alterations in gut microbiota by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Independent samples t‐test was used to calculate the difference between the two groups.

Results

CAP was observed in 98.2% of molars. A significant increase in atherosclerotic plaque formation in the aortic arches was found in the CAP groups (CAP: 2.001% ± 0.27%, control: 0.927% ± 0.22%, p = .005). No significant difference was observed between sevum level of HDL‐C (CAP: 2.295 ± 0.31 mmol/L, Control: 3.037 ± 0.55 mmol/L, p = .264) or LDL‐C (CAP: 17.066 ± 3.95 mmol/L, Control: 10.948 ± 1.69 mmol/L, p = .177) in CAP group and Control group. There were no significant differences in TG (CAP: 1.076 ± 0.08 mmol/L, control: 1.034 ± 0.13 mmol/L, p = .794) or TC (CAP: 6.372 ± 0.98 mmol/L, control: 6.679 ± 0.75 mmol/L, p = .72) levels between the two groups (p > .05). The alpha diversity was elevated in the CAP group. In terms of beta diversity, the CAP and control groups were clearly distinguished by the microbial community.

Conclusion

In a mouse experimental model, pulp infection with P. gingivalis ‐induced CAP, thus aggravating the development of atherosclerosis. Meanwhile, CAP increased alpha diversity and altered the beta diversity of the gut microbiota.
A critical analysis of research methods and experimental models to study the root canal microbiome
Authors: Siqueira José F. , Rôças Isabela N.
Published: October 2021

Endodontic microbiology deals with the study of the microbial aetiology and pathogenesis of pulpal and periradicular inflammatory diseases. Research in endodontic microbiology started almost 130 years ago and since then has mostly focussed on establishing and confirming the infectious aetiology of apical periodontitis, identifying the microbial species associated with the different types of endodontic infections and determining the efficacy of treatment procedures in eradicating or controlling infection. Diverse analytical methods have been used over the years, each one with their own advantages and limitations. In this review, the main features and applications of the most used technologies are discussed, and advice is provided to improve study designs in order to properly address the scientific questions and avoid setbacks that can compromise the results. Finally, areas of future research are described.
Functional properties of hemp protein concentrate obtained by alkaline extraction and successive ultrafiltration and spray‐drying
Authors: Potin François , Goure Elisa , Lubbers Samuel , Husson Florence , Saurel Rémi
Published: October 2021

Hemp protein concentrates were obtained from hemp seed cake by extraction at high alkaline pH (10 and 12) followed by an ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF) purification step and spray‐drying. The composition, thermal, nutritional, and functional properties of the resulting protein samples were evaluated. The UF treatment increased protein purity of the protein extracts recovered at pH 10 and 12, from ˜61% and ˜70% to ˜85% and ˜88%, respectively. This protein enrichment did not change the polypeptide composition, as well as the protein solubility profile at each respective pH of extraction. However, the pH 12‐extracted proteins showed higher solubility (>85%) notably at alkaline pH (7–9) compared with the pH 10‐extracted samples (˜40–80%). The highest in vitro protein digestibility values were obtained for the crude protein sample resulting from the extraction at pH 10 (˜89%) and the pH 12‐extracted protein sample after heat treatment (˜96%). The pH 12‐extracted hemp proteins presented excellent emulsifying properties, producing submicromic emulsions with high stability even after protein heating, whereas the emulsions prepared from the pH 10‐extracted proteins tended to be easily destabilised by flocculation and coalescence. The particular properties of the former protein sample could be explained by the denaturing polymerisation of protein during the extraction at pH 12 involving complexation with polyphenols.
Potential of teff (Eragrostis tef) flour as an ingredient in gluten‐free cakes: chemical, technological and sensory quality
Authors: Haas Raquel Viviane , Homem Raísa Vieira , Farias Deise Vitória , Schmidt Helena de Oliveira , Rockett Fernanda Camboim , Venzke Janaína Guimarães , Jomori Manuela Mika , Kist Tarso Ledur , Rios Alessandro de Oliveira , Oliveira Viviani Ruffo de
Published: October 2021

This article aimed to evaluate the chemical, technological and sensory characteristics of gluten‐free cakes made with teff (Eragrostis tef). Four cakes were evaluated: T1, 100% teff flour; T2, 75% teff flour, 12.5% rice flour, 12.5% cassava starch; T3, 50% teff flour, 25% rice flour, 25% cassava starch and T4, 25% teff flour, 37.5% rice flour, 37.5% cassava starch. Higher percentages of teff increased total ash. For apparent and specific volumes, T4 was the one with the highest mean. In sensory analysis, the attributes of appearance, colour and odour did not have significant difference among treatments. T1 received the lowest overall average for flavour (5.03). Regarding the purchase intention, the cakes did not show significant difference between T3 and T2 (3.25 and 3.08). T2, T3 and T4 obtained acceptance index higher than 70%. The use of teff flour in cakes can be promising in gluten free diet.
Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis: case series and clinical review
Authors: Nguyen Matthew H. , Molland Janice G. , Kennedy Suellyn , Gray Timothy J. , Limaye Sandhya
Published: October 2021

Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is a chronic inflammatory breast disorder that typically affects young, parous women, often following lactation. Patients present with tender, erythematous breast lesions with histological evidence of non‐caseating granulomata and an inflammatory cell infiltrate. An immune‐mediated pathophysiology is hypothesised and an association with lipophilic Corynebacterium species is observed. Initial diagnosis is often delayed due to lack of awareness of the condition and management of refractory disease can be challenging. We present an extensive case series of patients collaboratively managed by subspecialty physicians and surgeons at a single centre in Sydney, Australia. The accompanying review expands on features of this condition and supports the utility of a multidisciplinary approach.
Corporate lobbying and the value of firms: The case of defense firms and the 9/11 terrorist attacks
Authors: Blau Benjamin M. , Griffith Todd G. , Larsen Derek , Whitby Ryan J.
Published: October 2021

We examine the stock prices of defense firms surrounding the reopening of markets after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The cumulative abnormal returns for defense firms increased dramatically in response to the attacks, which is arguably explained by the expectation of impending military conflict and the possibility of new defense spending. Perhaps more interestingly, a substantial amount of the variation in the price response across defense firms is driven by whether or not the firm had established political connections through lobbying activities or political action committee contributions before the attacks. These findings seem to support the notion that market participants perceived that defense firms with political connections were more likely to secure future military contracts.
Mining a photo library: Eggs and egg sacs in a major spider family
Authors: Huber Bernhard A. , Eberle Jonas
Published: October 2021

This study explores the potential use of photos for extracting basic data on spider eggs and presents a first rough but comprehensive overview of egg sizes, egg numbers per egg sac, and egg sac shapes in 468 species of pholcid spiders representing 73 genera. Egg diameters ranged 0.29–1.73 mm; egg numbers ranged 3–110. Egg sacs were mostly round or oval, but tended to be elongated in species with elongated abdomens, and flattened in very short‐legged species. Potential effects of female body size, abdomen shape, and microhabitat on egg size and number were evaluated by phylogenetic generalized linear models across all investigated species. Our analyses showed that both egg size and egg number are strongly determined by female body size. We found a clear trend for small species to have relatively larger eggs. Ecology and body shape also played a role, albeit at a considerably lower level and with complex interactions among variables: Relative to body size, ground‐dwelling species had smaller eggs than space and leaf dwellers; species with a long abdomen had larger eggs than species with a short abdomen. The effect of body size on clutch size depended on body shape and microhabitat: It was slightly weaker in space‐dwelling than in other species; species with long abdomens had more eggs in ground and leaf microhabitats, whereas space dwellers carried more eggs when having short abdomens.
Misdiagnosis of diabetic foot ulcer in patients with undiagnosed skin malignancies
Authors: Lyundup Alexey V. , Balyasin Maxim V. , Maksimova Nadezhda V. , Kovina Marina V. , Krasheninnikov Mikhail E. , Dyuzheva Tatiana G. , Yakovenko Sergey A. , Appolonova Svetlana A. , Schiöth Helgi B. , Klabukov Ilya D.
Published: October 2021

A growing number of studies report dermal malignancies mimicking diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). We reviewed clinical cases reporting malignant tumours misdiagnosed to be DFU aiming to identify factors contributing to misdiagnosis. We systematically searched in PubMed for clinical cases reporting on misdiagnosis of DFU in patients with cancer. A chi‐square analysis was conducted to show the link between the incidence of initial DFU misdiagnosis and patient age, gender and wound duration. Lesions misdiagnosed to be DFU were subsequently diagnosed as melanoma (68% of the cases), Kaposi's sarcoma (14%), squamous cell carcinoma (11%), mantle cell lymphoma, and diffuse B‐cell lymphoma (both by 4%). Older age (≥65 years) was associated with a significantly increased risk of malignancy masked as DFU (OR: 2.452; 95% CI: 1.132 to 5.312; P value = .019). The risk of such suspicion in older patients (age ≥ 65 years) was 145% higher than in younger patients (age < 65 years). Clinicians should maintain a high level of awareness towards potentially malignant foot lesions in elderly patients with diabetes (age ≥ 65).
Finite element analysis of fracture behavior in ceramics: Prediction of strength distribution using microstructural features
Authors: Ozaki Shingo , Yamagata Kazuki , Ito Chihiro , Kohata Takuma , Osada Toshio
Published: October 2021

The estimation of the strength scatter caused by internal defects is necessary in analyzing a reliable design of advanced ceramic components. In this study, we proposed a finite element analysis methodology to predict the stochastic fracture behavior of ceramics based on the microstructural features obtained by the scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray computed tomography. Here, the two‐ and three‐dimensional distribution microstructural data are approximated by various probability density functions and are reflected in the dispersion of parameters of the damage model via a fracture mechanics model. We then applied the proposed method to alumina fine ceramics sintered at three different temperatures, and performed the three‐point bending test. Furthermore, the numerically created Weibull distributions were compared with those obtained experimentally. Our analysis results confirm that the proposed method can reasonably predict the strength scatter in ceramics.
Black Counterpublic Philosophy? Some Comments on George Yancy's Across Black Spaces
Authors: Mills Charles W.
Published: October 2021

The publication of George Yancy's latest book, Across Black Spaces: Essays and Interviews from an American Philosopher (2020), provides a welcome opportunity to reflect not just on the book itself but on ‘Black’ public philosophy and how it should be conceptualised. In the first part of the essay, I look at public philosophy as a recent self‐conscious exercise in the profession and then – citing Critical Theory's coinage from decades ago of the idea of a ‘counterpublic’ – raise the question of whether the concept of a ‘Black counterpublic philosophy’ might not be a better designation. The second part defends this claim by enumerating some of the key obstacles facing Black philosophers in the field: a minuscule population, a stigmatising identity shaped by the legacy of racial slavery in modernity, the denial of a recognised philosophical tradition, and a racial research focus at odds with the discipline's self‐conception as removed from the corporeal. Finally, the third part situates Yancy's work and achievement against this background, while warning (as illustrated by the virulent backlash he has encountered) of the dangers of such an enterprise.
Clinical effectiveness and safety of amlodipine/losartan‐based single‐pill combination therapy in patients with hypertension: Findings from real‐world, multicenter observational databases
Authors: Lee Jieun , Choi Jaeyun , Yum Yunjin , Joo Hyung Joon , Kim Yong‐Hyun , An Hyonggin , Kim Eung Ju
Published: October 2021

Various single‐pill combinations (SPCs) have been introduced to improve drug compliance and clinical efficacy. However, there is a lack of real‐world evidence regarding the effectiveness of these SPCs for hypertension. This study evaluated the real‐world clinical efficacy and safety of amlodipine/losartan‐based SPC therapies in patients with hypertension in a real‐world setting. A total of 15 538 patients treated with amlodipine/losartan‐based SPCs [amlodipine + losartan (AL), amlodipine + losartan + rosuvastatin (ALR), and amlodipine + losartan + chlorthalidone (ALC)] were selected from the database of three tertiary hospitals in Korea. The efficacy endpoints were target blood pressure (BP) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) achievement rates. Safety was evaluated based on laboratory parameters. Drug adherence was defined as the proportion of medication days covered (PDC). The target BP attainment rate was above 90% and was similar among the three groups. Although many patients in the AL and ALC groups took statins, the target LDL‐C attainment rate was significantly higher in the ALR group than in the AL and ALC groups. Safety endpoints were not significantly different among the groups, except serum uric acid level and incidence rate of new‐onset hyperuricemia, which were significantly lower in the AL and ALR groups than in the ALC group. The PDC was > 90% in all groups. In the real‐world hypertensive patients, amlodipine/losartan‐based SPC therapy demonstrated good target BP achievement rates. Especially, rosuvastatin‐combination SPC showed better target LDL‐C goal achievement rate compared to the other SPCs. All three amlodipine/losartan‐based SPC had excellent drug adherence.
Adjunctive benefits of systemic metronidazole on non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis. A randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Blanco Carlota , Pico Alex , Dopico Jose , Gándara Pilar , Blanco Juan , Liñares Antonio
Published: October 2021

Aim

To study clinical, radiographic, and microbiological outcomes after non‐surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis with or without adjunctive systemic metronidazole.

Materials and Methods

A randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trial was carried out in 32 subjects (62 implants) diagnosed with peri‐implantitis. Implants received a mechanical non‐surgical debridement session and systemic metronidazole or placebo. Clinical, radiographic, and microbiological outcomes were evaluated at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

After 12 months, the test treatment resulted in significantly greater PPD reduction (2.53 vs. 1.02 mm) and CAL gain (2.14 vs. 0.53 mm) (pvalue <.05) in comparison with placebo. The test treatment also resulted in additional radiographic bone gain (2.33 vs. 1.13 mm) compared with placebo (pvalue <.05). There was a significantly greater decrease inPorphyromonas gingivalis,Tannerella forsythia, andCampylobacter rectuscounts compared with the control group (pvalue <.05). At the end of follow‐up, 56.3% of patients met the success criteria in the test group and 25% in the control group.

Conclusions

The use of systemic metronidazole as an adjunct to non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis resulted in significant additional improvements in clinical, radiographic, and microbiological parameters after 12 months of follow‐up.

This study is registered inClinicalTrials.gov(NCT03564301).
Application of convolutional neural networks for evaluating the depth of invasion of early gastric cancer based on endoscopic images
Authors: Hamada Kenta , Kawahara Yoshiro , Tanimoto Takayoshi , Ohto Akimitsu , Toda Akira , Aida Toshiaki , Yamasaki Yasushi , Gotoda Tatsuhiro , Ogawa Taiji , Abe Makoto , Okanoue Shotaro , Takei Kensuke , Kikuchi Satoru , Kuroda Shinji , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: October 2021

Background and Aim

Recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has been used in endoscopic examination and is expected to help in endoscopic diagnosis. We evaluated the feasibility of AI using convolutional neural network (CNN) systems for evaluating the depth of invasion of early gastric cancer (EGC), based on endoscopic images.

Methods

This study used a deep CNN model, ResNet152. From patients who underwent treatment for EGC at our hospital between January 2012 and December 2016, we selected 100 consecutive patients with mucosal (M) cancers and 100 consecutive patients with cancers invading the submucosa (SM cancers). A total of 3508 non‐magnifying endoscopic images of EGCs, including white‐light imaging, linked color imaging, blue laser imaging‐bright, and indigo‐carmine dye contrast imaging, were included in this study. A total of 2288 images from 132 patients served as the development dataset, and 1220 images from 68 patients served as the testing dataset. Invasion depth was evaluated for each image and lesion. The majority vote was applied to lesion‐based evaluation.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for diagnosing M cancer were 84.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 82.3%–87.5%), 70.7% (95% CI 66.8%–74.6%), and 78.9% (95% CI 76.6%–81.2%), respectively, for image‐based evaluation, and 85.3% (95% CI 73.4%–97.2%), 82.4% (95% CI 69.5%–95.2%), and 83.8% (95% CI 75.1%–92.6%), respectively, for lesion‐based evaluation.

Conclusions

The application of AI using CNN to evaluate the depth of invasion of EGCs based on endoscopic images is feasible, and it is worth investing more effort to put this new technology into practical use.
Río‐Hortega's drawings revisited with fluorescent protein defines a cytoplasm‐filled channel system of CNS myelin
Authors: Edgar Julia M. , McGowan Eleanor , Chapple Katie J. , Möbius Wiebke , Lemgruber Leandro , Insall Robert H. , Nave Klaus‐Armin , Boullerne Anne
Published: October 2021

A century ago this year, Pío del Río‐Hortega (1921) coined the term ‘oligodendroglia’ for the ‘interfascicular glia’ with very few processes, launching an extensive discovery effort on his new cell type. One hundred years later, we review his original contributions to our understanding of the system of cytoplasmic channels within myelin in the context of what we observe today using light and electron microscopy of genetically encoded fluorescent reporters and immunostaining. We use the term myelinic channel system to describe the cytoplasm‐delimited spaces associated with myelin; being the paranodal loops, inner and outer tongues, cytoplasm‐filled spaces through compact myelin and further complex motifs associated to the sheath. Using a central nervous system myelinating cell culture model that contains all major neural cell types and produces compact myelin, we find that td‐tomato fluorescent protein delineates the myelinic channel system in a manner reminiscent of the drawings of adult white matter by Río‐Hortega, despite that he questioned whether some cytoplasmic figures he observed represented artefact. Together, these data lead us to propose a slightly revised model of the ‘unrolled’ sheath. Further, we show that the myelinic channel system, while relatively stable, can undergo subtle dynamic shape changes over days. Importantly, we capture an under‐appreciated complexity of the myelinic channel system in mature myelin sheaths.
Microneedling for Hair Loss
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Quinlan Emma M. , Venkataraman Maanasa , Bamimore Mary A.
Published: October 2021

Background

Microneedling is a relatively novel therapeutic modality introduced in the 1990s where small, fine needles are used to create micro punctures in the skin. It is a minimally invasive procedure used for various dermatological conditions, including androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

Objective and Methods

We comprehensively summarize the literature regarding microneedling in dermatology. We performed linear multivariable regressions to synthesize evidence from the clinical trials that investigated the efficacy of microneedling for AGA. Studies eligible for quantitative analyses were assessed for evidence quality.

Results

The exact mechanism of microneedling action is yet to be determined, with theories that include the wound‐healing cascade. Microneedling monotherapy significantly increased total hair count more than topical minoxidil 5% (β = 12.29; p < 0.001). The combination treatment of microneedling with topical 5% minoxidil increased total hair count significantly compared to monotherapy with microneedling (β = 7.63, p < 0.05). Increasing the overall treatment duration of microneedling and reducing the frequency of microneedling sessions may positively influence an increase in total hair count.

Conclusion

There are limited studies that investigate microneedling as a monotherapy for hair loss since majority of the trials combine it with other therapies such as topical minoxidil or platelet‐rich plasma. While preliminary results look promising, further investigation of microneedling as a monotherapy in larger, randomized controlled trials will help determine its safety and efficacy, and place in treating AGA.
Comparative performance of various human papillomavirus assays available in Korea for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Ouh Yung‐Taek , Park Ji Jeong , Kang Minjoo , Kim Miseon , Song Jae Yun , Shin So Jin , Shim Seung‐Hyuk , Yoo Heon Jong , Lee Maria , Lee Sung‐Jong , Shin Whan , Chong Gun Oh. , Choi Min Chul , Choi Chel Hun , Min Kyung‐Jin
Published: October 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2 or higher lesions among available human papillomavirus infection (HPV) genotyping tests in Korea.

Methods

Eligible patients visited 13 tertiary hospitals for colposcopic biopsy following cervical cytology and HPV genotyping test between January and December 2018. Baseline characteristics including age, body mass index (BMI), and parity were collected from 3798 patients. The performance of the Roche Cobas HPV 4800 was evaluated against other domestic HPV assays to detect CIN2 or higher.

Results

A total of seven types of HPV genotyping tests were analyzed in the research institutes. A total of 1358 patients (35.8%) tested Anyplex II HPV 28 and 701 patients (18.5%) tested Cobas 4800 HPV. The overall sensitivity in the detection of CIN2 or higher was 41.5% (38.9–44.1) in patients positive for HPV 16/18.

The Cobas test for HPV 16/18 was concordant with other assays evaluated for detection of CIN2 or higher and showed sensitivity of 46.6%, which was not significantly different from other assays. Although Anyplex II HPV28 (Seegene) showed slightly decreased sensitivity for detecting CIN2 or higher lesion with HPV 16/18 positive (39.8%, p < 0.05) compared to Cobas 4800, in aspect of high‐risk HPV positive, Anyplex II HPV28 showed increased sensitivity (96.9%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The performance of the HPV genotype test that were commonly used in Korea was concordant with Cobas HPV test. Further studies are needed to evaluate the safety, efficiency, and cost‐effectiveness of the various commercially available domestic HPV assays.
A Synthesis on the Impact of Self‐Regulated Instruction on Motivation Outcomes for Students with or at Risk for Learning Disabilities
Authors: Butler Cameron M. , De La Paz Susan
Published: October 2021

In this synthesis, we examined and assessed the impact of self‐regulated instructional components on the motivation of students with or at risk for learning disabilities (LD) in reading, writing, or mathematics intervention studies. Elements such as goal setting, self‐monitoring for task completion, self‐monitoring for emotions, self‐talk for task completion, self‐talk for emotions, and self‐talk for progress monitoring were identified as relevant constructs, and were further examined to determine their effect on students’ motivation for learning and academic functioning. Results indicated major differences in the application of these self‐regulated instructional components across academic domains. Quantitative analyses also revealed that interventions with self‐regulated instructional components resulted in positive effects on motivation measures such as self‐efficacy, self‐esteem, attributions, value for task, affect, expectancy for success, and intrinsic motivation. Finally, our findings have practical implications for struggling learners, as goal setting and self‐talk, for task completion or for progress monitoring, seem especially likely to improve the likelihood that struggling learners will demonstrate positive gains in motivation.
Efficacy of vibegron in patients with overactive bladder: Multicenter prospective study of real‐world clinical practice in Japan, SCCOP study 19‐01
Authors: Tachikawa Kimihito , Kyoda Yuki , Fukuta Fumimasa , Kobayashi Ko , Masumori Naoya
Published: October 2021

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of vibegron in patients with overactive bladder (OAB) in real‐world clinical practice in Japan.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective, non‐controlled study consecutively enrolled patients with OAB determined by an OAB symptom score (OABSS) of three points or more and a question 3 (urgency) score of two points or more. A total of 212 patients from 43 institutions were recruited from January 2019 through March 2020. Vibegron, 50 mg, was administrated daily for 8 weeks as first‐line monotherapy (first‐line group, FL), monotherapy switching from antimuscarinics (post‐antimuscarinic group, PA) or mirabegron (post‐mirabegron group, PM) and combination therapy with antimuscarinics (add‐on group). The OABSS was collected at baseline and every 2 weeks. Adverse events were recorded at every visit.

Results

Of the 212 patients registered, 188 (male 76, female 112) were eligible for analysis (124 in the FL group, 27 in PA, 29 in PM, and eight in the add‐on group). The add‐on group was excluded from further analysis due to its small number. The OABSS (mean ± SD) showed significant improvement in all groups (FL; 8.8 ± 2.5, 3.8 ± 2.8, PM; 9.4 ± 2.2, 4.5 ± 4.0, PM; 8.9 ± 2.5, 4.7 ± 3.3 at 0 and 8 weeks, respectively). The overall incidence of adverse events was 25%. No grade 3 or higher adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

In the real‐world clinical setting, vibegron is effective and well‐tolerated by OAB patients, including those switching therapy from antimuscarinics and mirabegron.
A consistent second‐order hydrodynamic model in the time domain for floating structures with large horizontal motions
Authors: Shao Yanlin , Zheng Zhiping , Liang Hui , Chen Jikang
Published: October 2021

Floating offshore structures often exhibit low‐frequency oscillatory motions in the horizontal plane, with amplitudes in the same order as their characteristic dimensions and larger than the corresponding wave‐frequency responses, making the traditional formulations in an inertial coordinate system inconsistent and less applicable. To address this issue, we extend and explore an alternative formulation completely based on a non‐inertial body‐fixed coordinate system. Unlike the traditional seakeeping models, this formulation consistently allows for large‐amplitude horizontal motions. A numerical model based on a higher‐order boundary element is applied to solve the resulting boundary‐value problems in the time domain. A recently developed new set of explicit time‐integration methods, which do not necessitate the use of upwind schemes for spatial derivatives, are adopted to deal with the convective‐type free‐surface conditions. To suppress the weak saw‐tooth instabilities on the free surface in time marching, we also present novel low‐pass filters based on optimized weighted least squares, which are in principle applicable for both structured and unstructured meshes. The presented schemes for the convection equation and the low‐pass filter are also relevant for other engineering fields dealing with similar mathematical problems. For ship seakeeping and added resistance analyses, we show that the present computational model does not need to use soft‐springs for surge and sway, in contrast to the traditional models. For a floating monopile, the importance of consistently taking into account the effects of large horizontal motions is demonstrated considering the bichromatic incident waves. The present model is considered as a complete second‐order wave‐load model, as all the second‐order wave loads, including the sum‐frequency and difference‐frequency components, are solved simultaneously.
The incretin/glucagon system as a target for pharmacotherapy of obesity
Authors: Del Prato Stefano , Gallwitz Baptist , Holst Jens Juul , Meier Juris J.
Published: October 2021

Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial, relapsing disease. Despite multicomponent lifestyle interventions, including pharmacotherapy, maintaining bodyweight loss is challenging for many people. The pathophysiology of obesity is complex, and currently approved pharmacotherapies only target a few of the many pathways involved; thus, single‐targeting agents have limited efficacy. Proglucagon‐derived peptides, glucagon, and the incretin hormones glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), represent attractive targets for managing obesity and metabolic disorders because they may have direct roles in multiple mechanisms including satiety, energy homeostasis, and lipolytic activity. Unimolecular dual and triple agonists targeting glucagon and incretin hormone receptors have been shown to promote bodyweight loss, lower glucose levels, and reduce food intake in animal models of obesity. Multiple dual receptor agonists are in clinical development for the treatment of obesity, including GLP‐1/GIP and GLP‐1/glucagon receptor agonists. The extent to which glucagon contributes to treatment effects remains to be understood, but it may promote bodyweight loss by reducing food intake, while concomitant GLP‐1 receptor agonism ensures normal glucose control. Further research is required to fully understand the molecular mechanisms of action and metabolic effects of both dual and triple receptor agonists.
Epidemic progress of beet necrotic yellow vein virus: Evidence from an investigation in Japan spanning half a century
Authors: Nakagami Ryo , Chiba Sotaro , Yoshida Naoto , Senoo Yoshiteru , Iketani‐Saito Minako , Iketani Satoru , Kondo Hideki , Tamada Tetsuo
Published: October 2021

Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) is the causal agent of rhizomania, the most serious sugar beet disease worldwide. Since the first finding in Japan in 1969, BNYVV became widespread throughout Hokkaido in a few decades and led to the introduction of Rz1‐resistant sugar beet cultivars in the 1990s. Here, we report the historical progress of the BNYVV epidemic in Hokkaido from 1969 to 2019. Previous analysis on samples from 1991 showed that BNYVV isolates were classified into three strains (named O, D, and T) based on the RNA3‐encoded p25 gene. The O‐type viruses were widely detected in Hokkaido, while the D‐ and T‐type viruses were detected in limited areas. The RNA5, encoding the p26 gene, was initially contained in some D‐ and O‐type isolates but not in any T‐type isolates. Interestingly, recent sample analysis revealed that RNA5‐containing T‐type viruses, seemingly more virulent than the other two strains, were widely detected in Hokkaido. Additionally, a small group of virus isolates harbouring a new p25 gene (named C) was found in limited areas. These results suggest that the T‐type viruses, which accompanied RNA5, have been preferentially spread from a limited area to other districts over the last few decades and that this spread might be strongly associated with the recent introduction of Rz1‐resistant sugar beet cultivars. BNYVV‐positive samples also contained mainly beet soil‐borne virus and traces of beet virus Q, both of which are the first to be recorded in Japan.
Diatom (Bacillariophyceae) assemblages in tidal environments of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Sawai Yuki , Tanigawa Koichiro , Shinozaki Tetsuya , Bobrowsky Peter , Huntley David , Goff James
Published: October 2021

To understand distributions of coastal diatoms along Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, this paper describes diatom assemblages observed in 47 surface sediment samples from intertidal environments. One hundred and eighty‐four diatom taxa were identified from five transects crossing tidal flats, salt marshes, and freshwater forests in Tofino, Ucluelet, and Port Alberni. Distributions of the diatom assemblages were consistent with those reported elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest, but a few diatom taxa show different trends in their distributions. For example, one benthic speciesDenticula subtilisshows widespread distributions along the transect in Tofino. An ordination shown by Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) using a combined dataset indicated overlapped scatter plots of diatom assemblages, suggesting that assemblages with similar species compositions are observed in more than one location. Hierarchical and k‐means clustering analyses using Euclidean distance recognized unique small groups along each transect. Rank abundance curves show different trends for richness and evenness of diatom assemblages among the five transects.
Bayesian modeling can facilitate adaptive management in restoration
Authors: Applestein Cara , Caughlin T. Trevor , Germino Matthew J.
Published: October 2021

There is an urgent need for near‐term predictions of ecological restoration outcomes despite imperfect knowledge of ecosystems. Restoration outcomes are always uncertain but integrating Bayesian modeling into the process of adaptive management allows researchers and practitioners to explicitly incorporate prior knowledge of ecosystems into future predictions. Although barriers exist, employing qualitative expert knowledge and previous case studies can help narrow the range of uncertainty in forecasts. Software and processes that allow for repeatable methodologies can help bridge the existing gap between theory and application of Bayesian methods in adaptive management.
Academic‐conservation partnership reveals trade‐offs in treatment method and frequency needed to restore invaded floodplain
Authors: Smith Rachel S. , Alley Heather , Klement Diane , Haram Linsey E.
Published: October 2021

Invasive species disrupt native ecosystems by restructuring communities and altering ecosystem functions. To restore invaded plant communities, conservation practitioners eradicate invasive species, and re‐establish natives, but a lack of empirical understanding about how restoration methods and herbicide application frequencies affect native and invasive species limits restoration effectiveness. We developed a partnership between scientists and practitioners to evaluate conservation practices used to remove invasive stiltgrass Microstegium vimineum in an ongoing restoration of a Piedmont floodplain forest in Georgia, U.S.A. We examined the effects of the practitioners' existing large‐scale field application methods (herbicide, herbicide + native perennial seeding, herbicide + native perennial planting, and native perennial seeding) and frequencies (single, annual) using a smaller‐scale, controlled experiment. Both herbicide and planting native perennial seedlings reduced the invasive stiltgrass, but the methods varied in their optimal application frequency. Specifically, herbicide required annual application to maintain its potency, but planting natives was most effective following a single herbicide application. Our work highlights the benefits of planting native perennials as an effective alternative to herbicide in restoration plans. Furthermore, unlike the broad‐spectrum herbicide, native plantings did not reduce nearby non‐target taxa density. Our study illustrates trade‐offs in choosing restoration methods; although planting natives reduced the invasive species and provided associated benefits to the native community, this method took multiple growing seasons to establish and could require more up‐front costs than herbicide alone.
Pandemic Policy and Life Satisfaction in Europe
Authors: Clark Andrew E. , Lepinteur Anthony
Published: October 2021

We use data from the COME‐HERE longitudinal survey collected by the University of Luxembourg to assess the effects of the policy responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic on life satisfaction in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Sweden over the course of 2020. Policy responses are measured by the Stringency Index and the Economic Support Index from the Blavatnik School of Government. Stringency is systematically associated with lower life satisfaction, controlling for the intensity of the pandemic itself. This stringency effect is larger for women, those with weak ties to the labor market, and in richer households. The effect of the Economic Support is never statistically different from zero.
Scientists, presidents, and pandemics—comparing the science–politics nexus during the Zika virus and COVID‐19 outbreaks
Authors: Safford Thomas G. , Whitmore Emily H. , Hamilton Lawrence C.
Published: October 2021

Objective

We investigate how beliefs about scientists and presidents affect views about two pandemics, Zika virus (2016) and COVID‐19 (2020).

Methods

Three New Hampshire surveys in 2016 and 2020 provide data to test how beliefs about scientists’ practices and presidential approval relate to pandemic views.

Results

Support for presidents consistently predicts perceptions of scientists’ integrity and trust in science agencies for information, but the directionality changes from 2016 to 2020—increased trust among Obama‐supporters; decreased trust among Trump‐supporters. Respondents who believe scientists lack objectivity are also less likely to trust science agencies during both Zika and COVID‐19 and are less apt to be confident in the government's response in 2016. Assessments of pandemic responses become increasingly political during 2020; most notably, support for President Trump strongly predicts confidence in the government's efforts.

Conclusion

Results highlight how beliefs about scientists’ practices and presidents are central to the science–politics nexus during pandemics.
Interaction effects on support for climate‐change mitigation
Authors: Brown Adrienne R. , Hamilton Lawrence C.
Published: October 2021

Background

Research on the social bases of environmental concern has established robust findings across various sociodemographic characteristics. This includes interaction effects between education and political identity, as well as particularly low concern among supporters of President Trump.

Objectives

Using 2016 survey data, we extend such research to examine U.S. public support for four climate‐change mitigation strategies: investment in renewable energy, lifestyle changes, a revenue‐neutral carbon tax, and cap‐and‐trade.

Methods

We perform ordered logit regression of belief in anthropogenic climate change and support for these strategies on several key independent variables.

Results

Support follows some of the patterns expected for environmental concern generally but with new details. Trump support is a dominant predictor, and education × party interactions show significant variations in levels of support.

Conclusion

This provides important insights for public policy decision making related to climate change by considering which characteristics are most predictive of support for specific strategies.
Gene targeting in polymerase theta‐deficient Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: van Tol Niels , van Schendel Robin , Bos Alex , van Kregten Maartje , de Pater Sylvia , Hooykaas Paul J.J. , Tijsterman Marcel
Published: October 2021

Agrobacterium tumefaciens‐mediated transformation has been for decades the preferred tool to generate transgenic plants. During this process, a T‐DNA carrying transgenes is transferred from the bacterium to plant cells, where it randomly integrates into the genome via polymerase theta (Polθ)‐mediated end joining (TMEJ). Targeting of the T‐DNA to a specific genomic locus via homologous recombination (HR) is also possible, but such gene targeting (GT) events occur at low frequency and are almost invariably accompanied by random integration events. An additional complexity is that the product of recombination between T‐DNA and target locus may not only map to the target locus (true GT), but also to random positions in the genome (ectopic GT). In this study, we have investigated how TMEJ functionality affects the biology of GT in plants, by using Arabidopsis thaliana mutated for the TEBICHI gene, which encodes for Polθ. Whereas in TMEJ‐proficient plants we predominantly found GT events accompanied by random T‐DNA integrations, GT events obtained in the teb mutant background lacked additional T‐DNA copies, corroborating the essential role of Polθ in T‐DNA integration. Polθ deficiency also prevented ectopic GT events, suggesting that the sequence of events leading up to this outcome requires TMEJ. Our findings provide insights that can be used for the development of strategies to obtain high‐quality GT events in crop plants.
Infections by trypanosomatid (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) in triatomines (Hemiptera: Triatominae): A spatiotemporal assessment in an endemic area for Chagas disease
Authors: Silva Tatiene Rossana Móta , Ferrer‐Miranda Edyniesky , de Oliveira Jéssica Cardoso Pessoa , Santoro Kleber Régis , Alves Leucio Câmara , de Barros Lílian Silva Sampaio , Ramos Rafael Antonio Nascimento , de Carvalho Gílcia Aparecida
Published: October 2021

This research analysed the spatiotemporal distribution of triatomines infected by trypanosomatid parasites in an endemic region for Chagas disease, in the state of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil. The database included the total number of triatomines captured from intradomicile and peridomicile areas, as well as the infection rate (IR) by trypanosomatid. The by Getis–Ord method was used to statistically identify significant concentration clusters and the IR of triatomines by trypanosomatids. A generalized linear regression model with a binomial distribution was used to evaluate the probability of finding an IR by trypanosomatids. Overall, of 4,800 triatomines examined, trypanosomatid forms similar to Trypanosoma cruzi were detected in 10.29% of them, and the majority of positive specimens (98.17%) were collected at intradomicile. The geospatial analyses identified triatomines clusters in intradomicile and peridomicile environments. According to the logistic regression data for species (Panstrongylus lutzi, P. megistus, Triatoma brasiliensis and T. pseudomaculata), the probability of detection of T. cruzi infection remains constant in up to 50 specimens examined or more. The findings of this research revealed a scenario never studied in this area through this type of spatiotemporal analysis, which is essential to identify areas of vulnerability for the occurrence of these vectors and consequently for Chagas disease.
LncRNA MIAT promotes hypoxia‐induced H9C2 cell pyroptosis via binding to SF1 to inhibit CGRP transcription
Authors: Zhou Jingli
Published: October 2021

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

How does long non‐coding RNA myocardial infarction‐associated transcript (lncRNA MIAT) function in hypoxia‐induced H9C2 cells?

What is the main finding and its importance?

LncRNA MIAT inhibited transcription of calcitonin gene‐related peptide by binding to splicing factor 1, thereby promoting hypoxia‐induced H9C2 cell pyroptosis. This study provides a new theoretical basis for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction by using lncRNA MIAT as a molecular target to mediate cardiomyocyte pyrodeath.

Hypoxia induces severe cardiomyocyte pyroptosis, contributing to acute myocardial infarction. The aim of this study was to analyse the molecular mechanism of long non‐coding RNA myocardial infarction‐associated transcript (lncRNA MIAT) in hypoxia‐induced H9C2 cell pyroptosis. A hypoxic H9C2 cell model was established. Cell viability was detected via the Cell Counting Kit‐8 method. Levels of lactate dehydrogenase, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase and expressions of pyroptotic markers, lncRNA MIAT, splicing factor 1 (SF1) and calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) were detected via qRT‐PCR. The subcellular localization of lncRNA MIAT was predicted and confirmed via LncATLAS and nuclear/cytosol fractionation assay. The binding relationships between lncRNA MIAT and SF1 and between SF1 and the CGRP promotor were verified via RNA immunoprecipitation. Rescue experiments were designed to confirm the role of lncRNA MIAT/SF1/CGRP in H9C2 cell pyroptosis. LncRNA MIAT was overexpressed in hypoxia‐induced H9C2 cells. Hypoxia induced pyroptosis in H9C2 cells. Silencing of lncRNA MIAT enhanced cell viability and alleviated pyroptosis. LncRNA MIAT inhibited CGRP transcription via binding to SF1. Overexpression of SF1 promoted CGRP transcription and relieved H9C2 cell pyroptosis. Downregulation of CGRP reversed the role of silencing lncRNA MIAT in H9C2 cell pyroptosis. Overall, lncRNA MIAT inhibited CGRP transcription via binding to SF1, thereby promoting hypoxia‐induced H9C2 cell pyroptosis.