bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the therapeutic effects of hysteroscopic polypectomy with and without doxycycline treatment on chronic endometritis with endometrial polyps
Authors: Kuroda Keiji , Takamizawa Satoru , Motoyama Hiroshi , Tsutsumi Ryo , Sugiyama Rie , Nakagawa Koji , Sugiyama Rikikazu , Kuribayashi Yasushi
Published: January 2021

Problem

We aimed to compare the therapeutic effects of hysteroscopic polypectomy with and without doxycycline treatment on chronic endometritis (CE) with endometrial polyps.

Method of study: Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted on 267 infertile patients, of whom 243 were recruited, who underwent hysteroscopic polypectomy between March 2019 and March 2020. During surgery, the endometrial specimens for the immunohistochemistry analysis of the plasma cell marker CD138 and for the intrauterine bacterial culture were obtained to diagnose CE, and the prevalence of CE was analyzed. Of the 222 women who were diagnosed with CE after polypectomy, we treated 62 women with doxycycline (antibiotic group) and did not provide antibiotics in 160 women (non‐antibiotic group).

Results

Most of the infertile patients with endometrial polyps had CE (92.6%). The recovery rate from CE by hysteroscopic polypectomy was significantly higher in the non‐antibiotic group than in the antibiotic group (88.8% and 58.1%, respectively, p < 0.0001). The duration of recovery from CE in the non‐antibiotic group was shorter than that in the antibiotic group (42.6 ± 41.0 and 56.5 ± 32.3 days, respectively, p < 0.0001). The clinical pregnancy rate within 6 months in non‐antibiotic group was higher than that in the antibiotic group (63.2% and 43.8%, respectively, p = 0.034).

Conclusion

Endometrial polyps are significantly associated with CE. Most CE patients with endometrial polyps had been cured by polypectomy without doxycycline. Inappropriate antibiotic therapy may delay recovery from CE and decrease the efficacy of polypectomy on CE and pregnancy rates.
Do endometrial natural killer and regulatory T cells differ in infertile and clinical pregnancy patients? An analysis in patients undergoing frozen embryo transfer cycles
Authors: Sauerbrun‐Cutler May‐Tal , Huber Warren J. , Krueger Paula M. , Sung C. James , Has Phinnara , Sharma Surendra
Published: January 2021

Problem

Clinical significance of endometrial and peripheral blood natural killer (NK) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles has not been well characterized.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Method of Study

Endometrial tissue was collected from infertility patients prior to a frozen embryo transfer cycle as part of an endometrial receptivity analysis (ERA®) biopsy or endometrial scratch test. Uterine NK (uNK) and Treg cell density was compared based on pregnancy status in the subsequent frozen embryo transfer cycle. Peripheral blood was also collected from a separate cohort of patients undergoing frozen embryo transfer. Treg cell density was compared by the presence or the absence of a clinical pregnancy in each phase of the cycle.

Results

In the 33 luteal phase biopsies there were more endometrial Tregs, similar uNK and a trend toward lower CD16+ uNK cells in women with a future ongoing clinical pregnancy compared to non‐pregnant women. There were no differences in uNK and Treg density in natural scratch cycles vs programmed cycles or in non‐receptive vs receptive endometrium (ERA® cycles). In the peripheral blood analysis, the pregnant group had higher peripheral blood Tregs on the day of serum β‐hCG time point when compared to the non‐pregnant group.

Conclusion

Higher levels of endometrial Tregs and lower levels of CD16+ uNK cells are positive prognostic factors for infertile women prior to frozen embryo transfer. Our work on phenotypic and proportional analyses of endometrial immune cells may complement the ERA® in predicting improved pregnancy rates in patients with implantation failure.
Density estimation for circular data observed with errors
Authors: Di Marzio Marco , Fensore Stefania , Panzera Agnese , Taylor Charles C.
Published: January 2021

Until now the problem of estimating circular densities when data are observed with errors has been mainly treated by Fourier series methods. We propose kernel‐based estimators exhibiting simple construction and easy implementation. Specifically, we consider three different approaches: the first one is based on the equivalence between kernel estimators using data corrupted with different levels of error. This proposal appears to be totally unexplored, despite its potential for application also in the Euclidean setting. The second approach relies on estimators whose weight functions are circular deconvolution kernels. Due to the periodicity of the involved densities, it requires ad hoc mathematical tools. Finally, the third one is based on the idea of correcting extra bias of kernel estimators which use contaminated data and is essentially an adaptation of the standard theory to the circular case. For all the proposed estimators, we derive asymptotic properties, provide some simulation results, and also discuss some possible generalizations and extensions. Real data case studies are also included.
The selection gap in teacher education: Adverse effects of ethnicity, gender, and socio‐economic status on situational judgement test performance
Authors: Bardach Lisa , Rushby Jade V. , Klassen Robert M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Situational judgement tests (SJTs) measure non‐cognitive attributes and have recently drawn attention as a selection method for initial teacher education programmes. To date, very little is known about adverse impact in teacher selection SJT performance.

Aims

This study aimed to shed light on adverse effects of gender, ethnicity, and socio‐economic status (SES) on SJT scores, by exploring both main effects and interactions, and considering both overall SJT performance and separate SJT domain scores (mindset, emotion regulation, and conscientiousness).

Sample

A total of 2,808 prospective teachers from the United Kingdom completed the SJTs as part of the initial stage of selection into a teacher education programme.

Methods

In addition to SJT scores, the variables gender (female vs. male), ethnicity (majority group vs. minority group), and home SES background (higher SES status vs. lower SES status) were used in the analyses. Regression models and moderated regression models were employed.

Results and conclusions

Results from the regression models revealed that gender effects (females scoring higher than males) were restricted to emotion regulation, while ethnicity effects (ethnic majority group members scoring higher than ethnic minority group members) emerged for SJT overall scores and all three domains. Moderated regression modelling results furthermore showed significant interactions (gender and ethnicity) for SJT overall scores and two domains. Considering the importance of reducing subgroup differences in selection test scores to ensure equal access to teacher education, this study’s findings are a critical contribution. The partially differentiated results for overall vs. domain‐specific scores point towards the promise of applying a domain‐level perspective in research on teacher selection SJTs.
The influence of multiple salt layers on rift‐basin development; The Slyne and Erris basins, offshore NW Ireland
Authors: O’Sullivan Conor M. , Childs Conrad J. , Saqab Muhammad M. , Walsh John J. , Shannon Patrick M.
Published: January 2021

In contrast to much of the European Atlantic margin, the influence of salt on basin evolution has received little attention to date in the basins west of Ireland, despite salt being proven in several boreholes. Using an extensive seismic reflection database coupled with data from exploration wells and shallow boreholes, this study maps the distribution and composition of salt layers and investigates their role in the structural evolution of the Slyne and Erris basins offshore west of Ireland. Two salt‐prone intervals have been proven. The Upper Permian Zechstein Group is present throughout the Slyne and Erris basins, whereas the Upper Triassic Uilleann Halite Member is only developed in the Northern Slyne and Southern Erris sub‐basins. Both sedimentary units mechanically detach pre‐, post‐ and intra‐salt stratigraphy. Both salt layers underwent halokinesis during basin development, creating a variety of salt‐related structures. Salt pillows and salt rollers formed in the Zechstein Group, causing folding and rafting in the overlying Mesozoic section, driven by active faulting within the pre‐salt basement. Halokinesis in the Uilleann Halite Member caused thin‐skinned crestal collapse of the overlying Jurassic section above anticlines cored by Zechstein salt. Where both Triassic and Permian salt are present, unique structural geometries are formed when two stratigraphically discrete but kinematically linked halokinetic structures develop. The most common structural configuration consists of a Zechstein salt pillow and an Uilleann Halite salt wall separated by Lower Triassic sandstones. The fold axis of the salt pillow trends parallel to the strike of the salt wall. The results of this study provide a framework for the evolution of halokinetic structures in other basins on the Irish Atlantic margin, give a greater insight into the Permian and Triassic palaeogeography of the region and have more general implications for the evolution of salt‐related structures in rift basins with multiple stratigraphically discrete salt layers.
The users' perspective on how creativity techniques help in the idea generation process—A repertory grid study
Authors: Wöhler Julia , Reinhardt Ronny
Published: January 2021

Despite the large number of available creativity techniques such as Brainstorming and Six Thinking Hats and their widespread use in idea generation workshops, it remains unclear what specific aspects creativity technique users perceive as helpful. We conducted five large‐scale product development workshops with 216 inexperienced students in groups of four to six people and personally interviewed a subset of 87 participants using the repertory grid procedure. The results reveal a framework of facilitating and impeding factors users associate with the methodological frame, the process view and anticipated idea characteristics of creativity techniques. Particularly helpful and differentiating factors cover visual, cognitive and emotional processing systems. In addition, we evaluate 11 commonly used creativity techniques and present underlying reasons for why some of them are perceived as more helpful than others by inexperienced users. The results thus provide a stepping stone to understand the users' perspective on creativity techniques, improve existing techniques and develop better versions of them.
Compensated hypogonadism in men with sickle cell disease
Authors: Ribeiro Anna Paloma M. R. , Silva Caroline S. , Zambrano Jean Carlos C. , Miranda Juliana de Oliveira Freitas , Molina Carlos Augusto F. , Gomes Cristiano M. , Miranda Eduardo de Paula , de Bessa José
Published: January 2021

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of hypogonadism in a population of men with SCD and characterize its aetiology. Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with the development of hypogonadism, but there is still controversy regarding its aetiology and clinical implications.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study of 34 men with SCD aged > 18 years. Sociodemographic and clinical data, including anthropometric measurements (weight, height and BMI), were obtained. Early morning, blood samples were collected and total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), a complete blood count and haemoglobin electrophoresis were measured. Eugonadism was defined as T ≥300 ng/dL and LH ≤9.4 mUI/mL; primary hypogonadism as T < 300 ng/dL and LH > 9.4 mUI/mL; secondary hypogonadism as T < 300 ng/dL and LH ≤ 9.4 mUI/mL; and compensated hypogonadism as T ≥ 300 ng/dL and LH > 9.4 mUI/mL.

Results

Median age was 33 (26‐41) years, and SS genotype was the most frequent (73.5%). The prevalence of eugonadism, compensated hypogonadism and secondary hypogonadism was 67.5%, 26.4% and 5.88%, respectively. No men with primary hypogonadism were identified in our sample. Those with compensated hypogonadism had also higher FSH levels (>7.8 mUI/mL, P < .0001).

Conclusion

In our study population of men with SCD, a high prevalence of compensated hypogonadism was identified, which is a controversial and distinct clinical entity that warrants monitoring and further research.
Surface characteristics on commercial dental implants differentially activate macrophages in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Abaricia Jefferson O. , Shah Arth H. , Ruzga Marissa N. , Olivares‐Navarrete Rene
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Biomaterial implantation provokes an inflammatory response that controls integrative fate. M2 macrophages regulate the response to implants by resolving the inflammatory phase and recruiting progenitor cells to aid healing. We have previously shown that modified titanium (Ti) disks directly induce M2 macrophage polarization. The aim of this study was to examine macrophage response to commercially available Ti or Ti alloy implants with comparable roughness and varying hydrophilicity.

Material and Methods

Eleven commercially available Ti (A‐F) or Ti alloy (G‐K) dental implants were examined in this study. Surface topography, chemistry, and hydrophilicity were characterized for each implant. To compare the immune response in vitro, human monocyte‐derived macrophages were seeded on implants and secreted pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory proteins measured. To evaluate the inflammatory response in vivo, mice were subcutaneously instrumented with clinical implants, and implant adherent macrophage populations were characterized by flow cytometry.

Results

Macrophages on hydrophobic Implant C produced the highest level of pro‐inflammatory proteins in vitro. In contrast, hydrophilic Implant E produced the second‐highest pro‐inflammatory response. Implants F and K, both hydrophilics, produced the highest anti‐inflammatory protein secretions. Likewise, pro‐inflammatory CD80hi macrophages predominated in vivo on implants C and E, and M2 CD206 + macrophages predominated on implants F and K.

Conclusions

These findings show that hydrophilicity alone is insufficient to predict the anti‐inflammatory effect on macrophage polarization and that other properties—surface composition or topography—determine immune modulation. This in vivo model may be a useful screening method to compare the immunomodulatory response to clinical implants of disparate geometry or size.
A novel scoring system for evaluating laryngopharyngeal reflux
Authors: Horvath Lukas , Hagmann Patricia , Burri Emanuel , Kraft Marcel
Published: January 2021

Objective

Although laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a common condition in daily practice, no gold standard exists for its diagnosis. The objective of this study was to establish a simple and reliable scoring system for evaluating LPR consisting of both subjective and objective criteria.

Methods

This retrospective study includes 124 patients presenting with symptoms of LPR. In all patients, reflux symptom index (RSI), reflux finding score (RFS), oropharyngeal pH monitoring (PHM) and transnasal oesophagoscopy (TNE) were performed and rated in a special scoring system.

Results

A Horvath Score of 4‐5 for severe LPR was found in 76 patients (61%), a score of 2‐3 for non‐severe LPR in 38 patients (31%) and a score of 0‐1 for non‐existing LPR in 10 patients (8%) by combining the 4 validated diagnostic methods.

Conclusion

The proposed scoring system qualifies as a simple and reliable tool for evaluating LPR in daily practice, directly impacting patient management.
Narrow‐band imaging for screening of oral premalignant or cancerous lesions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Do Hyun , Kim Sung Won , Lee Jaeyoon , Hwang Se Hwan
Published: January 2021

Background

It remains unclear whether the use of adjunctive diagnostic screening methods improves the diagnostic efficacies of oral premalignant and cancerous lesions.

Objective of review

We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of narrow‐band imaging used to detect oral cancer and precancerous lesions defined employing different narrow‐band imaging criteria.

Type of review

Systematic review and meta‐analyses.

Search strategy

We searched PubMed, Scopus, the Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to May 2020.

Evaluation methods

Three different criteria for oral mucosal vascular changes using narrow‐band imaging were compared: class I: well‐demarcated brownish areas with thick dark spots and/or winding vessels; class II: intraepithelial papillary capillary looping of grades 2, 3 and 4; and class III: intraepithelial papillary capillary looping of grades 3 and 4. Methodological quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (ver. 2) tool. We compared narrow‐band imaging to conventional white‐light imaging.

Results

We included 10 prospective or retrospective studies (1374 patients). To detect all dysplastic and cancerous lesions, the class I criteria afforded the optimal specificity and sensitivity; the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.918. To detect highly dysplastic and advanced cancerous lesions, the class III criteria afforded appropriate specificity and sensitivity. The summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.905. When using the class III criteria, narrow‐band imaging afforded better specificity (0.941 [range 0.920, 0.9572], P < .0001) compared to white‐light imaging (0.520 [range 0.409, 0.629]). However, the white‐light imaging data were inconsistent and the ranges were broad; narrow‐band imaging may be considerably more accurate than white‐light imaging when using the class III criteria.

Conclusion

Narrow‐band imaging diagnosed oral premalignant or cancerous lesions much more reliably than white‐light imaging.
Effects of learning and adaptation on population viability
Authors: Indigo Naomi L. , Jolly Chris J. , Kelly Ella , Smith James , Webb Jonathan K. , Phillips Ben L.
Published: January 2021

Cultural adaptation is one means by which conservationists may help populations adapt to threats. A learned behavior may protect an individual from a threat, and the behavior can be transmitted horizontally (within generations) and vertically (between generations), rapidly conferring population‐level protection. Although possible in theory, it remains unclear whether such manipulations work in a conservation setting; what conditions are required for them to work; and how they might affect the evolutionary process. We examined models in which a population can adapt through both genetic and cultural mechanisms. Our work was motivated by the invasion of highly toxic cane toads (Rhinella marina) across northern Australia and the resultant declines of endangered northern quolls (Dasyurus hallucatus), which attack and are fatally poisoned by the toxic toads. We examined whether a novel management strategy in which wild quolls are trained to avoid toads can reduce extinction probability. We used a simulation model tailored to quoll life history. Within simulations, individuals were trained and a continuous evolving trait determined innate tendency to attack toads. We applied this model in a population viability setting. The strategy reduced extinction probability only when heritability of innate aversion was low (<20%) and when trained mothers trained >70% of their young to avoid toads. When these conditions were met, genetic adaptation was slower, but rapid cultural adaptation kept the population extant while genetic adaptation was completed. To gain insight into the evolutionary dynamics (in which we saw a transitory peak in cultural adaptation over time), we also developed a simple analytical model of evolutionary dynamics. This model showed that the strength of natural selection declined as the cultural transmission rate increased and that adaptation proceeded only when the rate of cultural transmission was below a critical value determined by the relative levels of protection conferred by genetic versus cultural mechanisms. Together, our models showed that cultural adaptation can play a powerful role in preventing extinction, but that rates of cultural transmission need to be high for this to occur.
Pharmacokinetic equivalence of CT‐P17 to high‐concentration (100 mg/ml) reference adalimumab: A randomized phase I study in healthy subjects
Authors: Yu Kyung‐Sang , Jang In‐Jin , Lim Hyeong‐Seok , Hong Jang Hee , Kim Min‐Gul , Park Min Kyu , Cho Doo‐Yeoun , Park Min Soo , Chung Jae Yong , Ghim Jong‐Lyul , Lee SeungHwan , Yoon Seok Kyu , Kwon In Sun , Lee Sang Joon , Kim Sung Hyun , Bae Yun Ju , Cha Jung Bin , Furst Daniel E. , Keystone Edward , Kay Jonathan
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to demonstrate pharmacokinetic (PK) equivalence of a single dose of the proposed adalimumab biosimilar CT‐P17 to United States‐licensed adalimumab (US‐adalimumab) and European Union‐approved adalimumab (EU‐adalimumab). This double‐blind, parallel‐group, phase I trial (clinicaltrials.gov NCT03970824) was conducted at 10 hospitals (Republic of Korea), in which healthy subjects (1:1:1) were randomized to receive a single 40 mg (100 mg/ml) subcutaneous injection of CT‐P17, US‐adalimumab, or EU‐adalimumab. Primary end points were PK equivalence in terms of: area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to infinity (AUC0–inf); AUC from time zero to the last quantifiable concentration (AUC0–last); and maximum serum concentration (Cmax). PK equivalence was concluded if 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for percent ratios of geometric least squares means (GLSMs) for pairwise comparisons were within the equivalence margin of 80–125%. Additional PK end points, safety, and immunogenicity were evaluated. Of the 312 subjects who were randomized (103 CT‐P17; 103 US‐adalimumab; 106 EU‐adalimumab), 308 subjects received study drug. AUC0–inf, AUC0–last, and Cmax were equivalent among CT‐P17, US‐adalimumab, and EU‐adalimumab, because 90% CIs for the ratios of GLSMs were within the 80–125% equivalence margin for each pairwise comparison. Secondary PK end points, safety, and immunogenicity were similar between treatment groups. In conclusion, PK equivalence for single‐dose administration of CT‐P17, EU‐adalimumab, and US‐adalimumab was demonstrated in healthy adults. Safety and immunogenicity profiles were comparable between treatment groups and consistent with previous reports for adalimumab biosimilars.
Body mass index, estimated glucose disposal rate and vascular complications in type 1 diabetes: Beyond glycated haemoglobin
Authors: Helliwell Rebecca , Warnes Harriet , Kietsiriroje Noppadol , Campbell Matthew , Birch Rebecca , Pearson Sam M. , Ajjan Ramzi A.
Published: January 2021

Aims

To understand the relationship between insulin resistance (IR), assessed as estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), and microvascular/macrovascular complications in people with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and methods

Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of type 1 diabetes were included in this cross‐sectional study. BMI was categorised into normal weight (18.0–24.9 kg m−2), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg m−2) and obese groups (≥30.0 kg m−2). We categorised eGDR into four groups: eGDR >8, 6–7.9, 4–5.9 and <4 mg kg−1 min−1. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify associations with vascular complications, after adjusting for relevant confounders.

Results

A total of 2151 individuals with type 1 diabetes were studied. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] age was 41.0 [29.0, 55.0] with diabetes duration of 20.0 [11, 31] years. Odds ratio (OR) for retinopathy and nephropathy in obese compared with normal weight individuals was 1.64 (95% CI: 1.24–2.19; p = 0.001) and 1.62 (95% CI: 1.10–2.39; p = 0.015), while the association with cardiovascular disease just failed to reach statistical significance (OR 1.66 [95% CI: 0.97–2.86; p = 0.066]). Comparing individuals with eGDR ≥8 mg kg−1 min−1 and <4 mg kg−1 min−1 showed OR for retinopathy, nephropathy and macrovascular disease of 4.84 (95% CI: 3.36–6.97; p < 0.001), 8.35 (95% CI: 4.86–14.34; p < 0.001) and 13.22 (95% CI: 3.10–56.38; p < 0.001), respectively. Individuals with the highest eGDR category (≥8 mg kg−1 min−1) had the lowest complication rates irrespective of HbA1c levels.

Conclusions

Obesity is prevalent in type 1 diabetes and diabetes complications are not only related to glucose control. IR, assessed as eGDR, is strongly associated with both microvascular and macrovascular complications, regardless of HbA1c levels.
The poor quality of diabetes care in a cluster randomized community survey from Delhi (DEDICOM‐II): A crisis, an opportunity
Authors: Nagpal Jitender , Rawat Swapnil , Goyal Siddhi , Lata Anthikad S.
Published: January 2021

Aims

To evaluate the quality of care in known diabetes patients of Delhi.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted using a two‐stage cluster design. In all, 30 of 150 wards were chosen in Stage 1 (using a random computer‐generated seed value and then selecting wards at a predefined sampling interval; Probability Proportionate to Size—Systematic) and one colony from each ward was selected randomly in Stage 2. The selected areas were surveyed house‐to‐house in one‐of‐four random directions to recruit a minimum of 25 subjects (known diabetes ≥1 year; 35–65 years of age) per area. Data were collected by interview, blood sampling and from medical records by specifically trained research staff.

Results

A total of 843 subjects (of 1315 eligible) were enrolled from 11,490 houses. For the intermediate outcome measures, an estimated 33.5% (95% CI 27.3–40.2) had an HbA1cvalue >10%, 67.2% (95% CI 62.8–71.4) had an LDL cholesterol level >100 mg/dl and 57.3% (95% CI 50.4–63.9) had BP levels >140/90 mmHg. For the processes of care in the last 1 year, 25.6% (95% CI 19.7–32.6) of the patients had an HbA1c(A1c) estimation and 2.4% (95% CI 1.1–4.9) had a dilated eye examination and 4.1% (95% CI 2.6–6.2) had foot examination. Diabetes self‐management education was provided to only 11.3% (95% CI 8.6–14.7) while nutrition counselling was provided to 56.0% (95% CI 51.7–60.2).

Conclusions

The glycaemic control, lipid control and BP management of known diabetes patients in Delhi are unacceptably poor and a wide gap exists between practice recommendations and delivery of diabetes care in Delhi.
Radiographic assessment of the response of teeth following trauma during screw placement for maxillo‐mandibular fixation
Authors: Burgaz İlker , Zengin Mustafa , Uckan Sina
Published: January 2021

Background/Aim

Maxillo‐mandibular fixation (MMF) screws have gained popularity in recent years for inter‐maxillary fixation. MMF screw application involves the risk of dental injury. However, knowledge about the healing responses after root damage in humans is limited, thereby warranting the need to classify the radiographic assessment of healing to enable better prediction of the healing response and effective management of the potential complications. The aim of this study was to assess and classify the radiographic assessment of the responses after root damage to evaluate the long‐term outcomes.

Material and Methods

The dental records of patients who underwent orthognathic surgery or trauma management during 2014–2016 at an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department were retrospectively analyzed. The data regarding dental injuries resulting from MMF screw application were evaluated. In total, 16 patients with 34 roots damaged from MMF screw application were enrolled. Post‐operative orthopantomographs were analyzed by visual inspection of the affected areas to clarify the extent of root healing. The inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability assessments were subsequently performed.

Results

The results indicated substantial inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability of the responses. Most cases of root damage that were not radiographically related to the pulp (Schulte‐Geers Class III defects) had complete or partial healing responses. In addition, 20% of the defects related to the pulp had additional resorption of the bone/dental tissues during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

Three different radiographic responses of root damage following MMF screw trauma were identified. Understanding these different responses is important to guide the management of the potential complications. This proposed radiographic assessment can be used to present root healing data in a more standardized and reliable manner.
Predatory mites protect own eggs against predators
Authors: Saitoh Fumiaki , Janssen Arne , Choh Yasuyuki
Published: January 2021

Predators frequently compete with other species for prey but can also interact by preying on each other’s vulnerable stages. Because eggs and juveniles are more vulnerable to this intraguild predation than adults, their survival will depend on maternal strategies to reduce predation risk. Recently, we reported that adult female predatory mites Gynaeseius liturivorus Ehara (Acari: Phytoseiidae) reduce intraguild predation on their eggs by remaining at oviposition sites, thus deterring the egg predators. In addition, they avoid oviposition close to eggs laid by conspecific females. We therefore expected that adult female G. liturivorus protect their own eggs better against these egg predators than eggs of other females. This was tested using juveniles of the predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus McGregor (Acari: Phytoseiidae) as egg predators and the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), as the shared prey. When G. liturivorus eggs were kept with their mothers, the presence of juvenile egg predators did not affect the survival of eggs. However, when G. liturivorus eggs were kept with females that were not their mothers, the mortality of eggs in the presence of juvenile egg predators increased. When adult female G. liturivorus were guarding their eggs, they killed a similar number of juvenile egg predators as females that were not kept with their eggs. Hence, adult female G. liturivorus protect their eggs by remaining close to their eggs.
Characterization of cuticular compounds of the cerambycid beetles Monochamus galloprovincialis, Arhopalus syriacus, and Pogonocherus perroudi, potential vectors of pinewood nematode
Authors: Gonçalves Elsa , Figueiredo Ana Cristina , Barroso José G. , Millar Jocelyn G. , Henriques Joana , Sousa Edmundo , Bonifácio Luís
Published: January 2021

In Portugal, dozens of bark and wood‐boring beetle species have been recorded colonizing Pinus pinaster Aiton (Pinaceae), the main conifer species affected by pine wilt disease (PWD). However, its causal agent, the pinewood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) Nickle (Parasitaphelenchidae), has been recovered only from the black pine sawyer, Monochamus galloprovincialis (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). To understand the mechanisms underlying this specific relationship, our goal was to characterize the cuticular compounds (CCs) of three of the most abundant wood‐boring cerambycids, M. galloprovincialis, Arhopalus syriacus (Reiter), and Pogonocherus perroudi (Mulsant) Villiers, colonizing infested P. pinaster. Three methods of extracting CCs were assessed: (1) headspace solid phase microextraction (SPME), (2) extraction with organic solvent (pentane or ethanol), and (3) hydrodistillation. Pentane extraction was most effective, using pooled samples of each of the insects’ developmental stages. Extracts were analysed by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) to identify compounds, and by GC for quantification. The pentane extracts contained predominantly straight‐chain (n‐C) and methyl‐branched hydrocarbons (meC). Cluster analysis defined two main clusters, with cluster A comprising A. syriacus samples dominated by n‐C23 (7‐39%), n‐C25 (9‐31%), and n‐C27 (5‐11%). Pogonocherus perroudi and the larvae from M. galloprovincialis grouped in sub‐cluster B1, characterized by high proportions of n‐C27 (20‐52%), n‐C29 (4‐18%), and 3‐meC27 (8‐18%). Sub‐cluster B2 included the remaining M. galloprovincialis samples, dominated by n‐C27 (10‐14%), n‐C25 (8‐10%), 5‐meC25 (9‐16%), 2‐meC26 (6‐12%), and 3‐meC27 (6‐10%). The CC profiles of the various species may play a key role in triggering the movement of PWN from the tree to callow adults of the specific insect vector, among all insects colonizing infested host trees. Identification of key components would potentially allow the development of valuable tools to manage PWD, for example, in a lure to quickly detect PWN in a tree, or conversely, by treatment of felled wood with PWN repellents to disrupt PWN transfer to its insect vector, breaking the transmission cycle.
STtech: sampling and transport techniques for Aedes eggs during a sampling campaign in a low‐resource setting
Authors: Kramer Isabelle Marie , Baral Sunita , Gautam Ishan , Braun Markus , Magdeburg Axel , Phuyal Parbati , Kadel Indira , Dhimal Meghnath , Ahrens Bodo , Groneberg David Alexander , Müller Ruth
Published: January 2021

Container‐breeding Aedes spp. (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes can be surveilled at low cost using ovitraps. Hence, this method is a preferred monitoring approach of dengue vectors in low‐resource settings. The ovitraps consist of a cup filled with water and an oviposition substrate for female mosquitoes. The attractiveness of the substrates for female mosquitoes can greatly differ due to differences in texture, color, and smell of the materials used. We compare four oviposition substrates, which are all low priced, easy to transport, and easy to purchase, to maximize the success of Aedes egg sampling. Sampled egg material is often reared to adulthood for further taxonomic identification and transported to (international) laboratories for specialized vector research. Here we introduce a transport technique for sampled eggs. In addition, we explored the impact of international transport by means of a bilateral hatching experiment in Nepal, the country of origin, and in Germany, in a laboratory specialized in ecophysiological research. The best low‐cost oviposition substrate for the dengue vectors Aedes albopictus (Skuse) and Aedes aegypti (L.) was found to be a white cotton sheet. The introduced transport technique of sampled eggs is easy to build from laboratory and household materials and ensures good transport conditions (i.e., temperature and relative humidity). Even under good temperature (17.4–31.0 °C) and humidity conditions (58.9–94.2%), hatching success of eggs was found to be reduced after international transport to Germany when compared to the hatching success of eggs in Nepal. We postulate that air pressure during international transport may have reduced the hatching success and strongly recommend pressure‐regulated transport boxes for egg transport via airplane. As the proposed operation procedure is useful in assisting the monitoring of Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti in low‐resource settings, Aedes researchers are encouraged to follow it for the sampling and transport of Aedes eggs.
Interictal electroencephalographic functional network topology in drug‐resistant and well‐controlled idiopathic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Pegg Emily J. , Taylor Jason R. , Laiou Petroula , Richardson Mark , Mohanraj Rajiv
Published: January 2021

Objective

The study aim was to compare interictal encephalographic (EEG) functional network topology between people with well‐controlled idiopathic generalized epilepsy (WC‐IGE) and drug‐resistant IGE (DR‐IGE).

Methods

Nineteen participants with WC‐IGE, 18 with DR‐IGE, and 20 controls underwent a resting state, 64‐channel EEG. An artifact‐free epoch was bandpass filtered into the frequency range of high and low extended alpha. Weighted functional connectivity matrices were calculated. Mean degree, degree distribution variance, characteristic path length (L), clustering coefficient, small world index (SWI), and betweenness centrality were measured. A Kruskal–Wallis H‐test assessed effects across groups. Where significant differences were found, Bonferroni‐corrected Mann–Whitney pairwise comparisons were calculated.

Results

In the low alpha band (6–9 Hz), there was a significant difference in L at the three‐group level (p < .0001). This was lower in controls than both WC‐IGE and DR‐IGE (p < .0001 for both), with no difference in L between WC‐IGE and DR‐IGE. Mean degree (p = .031), degree distribution variance (p = .032), and SWI (p = .023) differed across the three groups in the high alpha band (10–12 Hz). Mean degree and degree distribution variance were lower in WC‐IGE than controls (p = .029 for both), and SWI was higher in WC‐IGE compared with controls (p = .038), with no differences in other pairwise comparisons.

Significance

IGE network topology is more regular in the low alpha frequency band, potentially reflecting a more vulnerable structure. WC‐IGE network topology is different from controls in the high alpha band. This may reflect drug‐induced network changes that have stabilized the WC‐IGE network by rendering it less likely to synchronize. These results are of potential importance in advancing the understanding of mechanisms of epilepsy drug resistance and as a possible basis for a biomarker of DR‐IGE.
Climate‐driven range shifts of montane species vary with elevation
Authors: Mamantov Margaret A. , Gibson‐Reinemer Daniel K. , Linck Ethan B. , Sheldon Kimberly S.
Published: January 2021

Aim

In response to warming, species are shifting their ranges towards higher elevations. These elevational range shifts have been documented in a variety of taxonomic groups across latitude. However, the rate and direction of species range shifts in response to warming vary, potentially as a consequence of variation in species traits across elevation. Specifically, diurnal and seasonal climates are often more variable at higher elevations, which results in high‐elevation species that have broader thermal physiologies relative to low‐elevation species. High‐elevation species that are thermal generalists might not need to move as far to track their thermal niche as low‐elevation thermal specialists. We investigated whether rates of range shifts varied systematically with increasing elevation across taxa and regions.

Location

Sixteen montane regions world‐wide.

Time period

1850–2013.

Taxon

Nine hundred and eighty‐seven species of plants and animals.

Methods

We gathered published data on elevational range shifts from 20 transect studies comparing historical and recent distributions and examined how rates of range shifts changed across elevation. Specifically, we performed a meta‐analysis to calculate the pooled effect of elevation on species range shifts.

Results

We found that rates of range shifts show a negative relationship with elevation such that low‐elevation species have moved upslope farther than high‐elevation species on the same transect. This finding was primarily a result of shifts in the upper range limits. We also found that 28% of species shifted downslope against predictions, but elevation did not show a relationship with downslope range shifts.

Main conclusions

Idiosyncratic range shifts will significantly alter montane ecological communities, which are home to some of the greatest biodiversity on Earth. Our results demonstrate that species range shifts vary with elevation and might be a consequence of differences in species traits that also vary along montane gradients.
“You will eat shoe polish if you think it would help”—Familiar and lesser‐known themes identified from mixed‐methods analysis of a cluster headache survey
Authors: Schindler Emmanuelle A. D. , Cooper Vanessa , Quine Douglas B. , Fenton Brenda T. , Wright Douglas A. , Weil Marsha J. , Sico Jason J.
Published: January 2021

Objective

To characterize patient‐reported ideas and concerns about cluster headache, treatment options, and management strategies.

Background

Cluster headache patients experience severe pain and often suffer additional consequences from their disease. Patients have identified methods to cope with and combat cluster headache that are not widely known.

Methods

Secondary analysis was performed using deidentified data from the online Clusterbusters Medication Use survey, wherein 10 questions allowed for freely written comments. Using mixed‐methods techniques, neurologists with expertise in headache medicine identified themes from these comments. Subgroup analysis sought to identify variables associated with specific themes.

Results

Among 2274 free‐text responses from 493 adult participants, 23 themes were identified. Themes commonly discussed in the literature included such topics as “nothing worked” (24.7%, 122/493), “side effects” (12.8%, 63/493), and difficulties with “access/cost” (2.4%, 12/493). Less widely recognized themes included the use of “illicit substances” (35.5%, 175/493) and “vitamins/supplements” (12.2%, 60/493) in disease management. Lesser‐known themes included “coffee” (5.3%, 26/493) and “exercise/physical activity” (4.7%, 23/493). Using strict significance criteria, no subgroup was associated with any theme. Several poignant quotes highlighted patient thoughts and experiences.

Conclusions

This mixed‐methods analysis identified challenges endured by cluster headache patients, as well as a variety of patient‐directed disease management approaches. The volunteered information spotlights pharmacological, physiological, and psychological aspects of cluster headache that warrant further exploratory and interventional investigation.
Dietary magnesium and migraine in adults: A cross‐sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2004
Authors: Slavin Margaret , Li Huilun , Khatri Manisha , Frankenfeld Cara
Published: January 2021

Background

Clinical trials have demonstrated magnesium supplements to be effective for prophylactic treatment of migraine. Dietary magnesium intake of many Americans is known to be below nutritional recommendations, but typical magnesium intake from dietary sources in adults with migraine has not previously been evaluated.

Objective

This study aimed to quantify dietary and total (diet + supplement) magnesium consumption of adults with migraine or severe headache in the United States, and to investigate the relationship between magnesium consumption levels and prevalence of migraine or severe headache.

Methods

This analysis included cross‐sectional data from 3626 participants, 20‐ to 50‐years old in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2001 and 2004. Presence of migraine or severe headache in the past 3 months was determined by questionnaire. Individuals responding affirmatively were classified as having migraine, and individuals reporting not experiencing migraine or severe headache were classified as controls. Dietary magnesium intake was determined from a 24‐hour recall interview, supplemental magnesium intake was determined from the dietary supplements interview, and total magnesium intake was the sum of dietary and supplement intake.

Results

Mean dietary consumption of magnesium was below the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for both migraine (n = 905) and control groups (n = 2721). Attainment of the RDA through a combination of diet and supplements was associated with lower adjusted odds of migraine (odds ratio [OR] = 0.83, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] = 0.70, 0.99, p = 0.035). Magnesium consumption in the highest quartile (Q) was associated with lower odds of migraine than in the lowest Q for both dietary (OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.63, 0.92, p = 0.006) and total (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.62, 0.99, p = 0.042) magnesium intake in adjusted models.

Conclusion

These results suggest inadequate consumption of magnesium intake is associated with migraine in U.S. adults ages 20–50. Further prospective investigations are warranted to evaluate the role of dietary magnesium intake on migraine.
European Society of Endodontology position statement: Surgical extrusion, intentional replantation and tooth autotransplantation
Authors: Plotino G. , Abella Sans F. , Duggal M. S. , Grande N. M. , Krastl G. , Nagendrababu V. , Gambarini G.
Published: January 2021

This European Society of Endodontology (ESE) position statement on surgical extrusion, intentional replantation and tooth autotransplantation represents the consensus of an expert committee, convened by the ESE. A narrative review in the International Endodontic Journal (Plotino et al. 2020, international Endodontic Journal, 53, 1636–52) formed the basis for the position statement. The review provided detailed information on the background, clinical procedures and the outcome of surgical extrusion, intentional replantation and tooth autotransplantation techniques. The aim of the current statement is to summarize the best available evidence on these clinical techniques to provide appropriate clinical guidance to undergraduate and postgraduate students, dental practitioners, clinical teachers and researchers. The current position statement will be updated by the ESE periodically to reflect new evidence as it becomes available to provide the most current treatment guidance for clinical practice.
Odontoblast cell death induces NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent sterile inflammation and regulates dental pulp cell migration, proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Al Natour B. , Lundy F. T. , Moynah P. N. , About I. , Jeanneau C. , Irwin C.R. , Dombrowski Y. , El Karim I. A.
Published: January 2021

Aim

To investigate the ability of dead odontoblasts to initiate NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent sterile inflammation and to explore the effect on dental pulp cell (DPCs) migration, proliferation and odontogenic differentiation.

Methods

Odontoblast‐like cells were subjected to freezing‐thawing cycles to produce odontoblast necrotic cell lysate (ONCL). DPCs were treated with ONCL to assess proliferation and migration. THP‐1 differentiated macrophages stimulated with ONCL and live cell imaging and western blotting were used to assess NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Cytokines were measured with multiplex arrays and ELISA. qPCR, alkaline phosphatase and Alizarin red assays were used to assess odontogenic differentiation of DPCs. Data were analysed using the t‐test or anova followed by a Bonferroni post hoc test with the level of significance set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

ONCL induced migration and proliferation of DPCs. Treatment of THP‐1 macrophages with ONCL resulted in the release of the inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, TNFα, IFN‐γ, CCL2 and angiogenic growth factors, angiogenin and angiopoietin. This inflammatory response was associated with activation of NFκB, p38MAPK and NLRP3 inflammasome. To confirm that ONCL induced inflammatory response is NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent, treatment with a caspase‐1 inhibitor and a specific NLRP3 inhibitor significantly reduced IL‐1β release in THP‐1 macrophages (P = 0.01 and 0.001). Inflammasome activation product, IL‐1β, induced odontogenic differentiation of DPCS as evident by the increase in odontogenic genes expression DMP‐1, RUNX‐2, DSPP and SPP, alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization.

Conclusion

Dead odontoblasts induced NLRP3 inflammasome‐dependent sterile inflammation and activated the migration, proliferation and differentiation of DPCs.