bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Robustness of five different visual assessment methods for the evaluation of hindlimb lameness based on tubera coxarum movement in horses at the trot on a straight line
Authors: Starke Sandra D. , May Stephen A. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe evaluation of hindlimb lameness remains a major challenge in everyday clinical practice. In the absence of clear guidelines, veterinarians use different visual assessment methods for this task whose robustness is unknown.ObjectivesDetermination of the robustness of five visual hindlimb lameness assessment methods based on the comparison of left and right tuber coxae movement.Study designValidated mathematical hindlimb lameness model based on experimental data from the literature.MethodsVertical movement of left (LTC) and right (RTC) tuber coxae was simulated for the range of common hindlimb lameness movement patterns that horses present within practice. Lameness severity ranged from sound to moderately lame (0% to 60% motion asymmetry). The scenarios of a pelvis held tilted and asymmetrical pelvic roll were included to reflect possible adaptations in pelvic rotation. Across all conditions, the outcomes for five different visual assessment methods based on comparative tubera coxarum movement were quantified, including hip hike, ‐drop and range of motion. The robustness of each assessment method was established through comparison to sacrum‐based overall motion asymmetry as the ground truth.ResultsTubera coxarum‐based lameness assessment was highly sensitive to all the unique lameness patterns and changes in pelvic rotation which a lame horse may adopt. None of the five visual lameness assessment methods was 100% robust across all conditions tested. For everyday clinical practice, comparing the upward movement amplitude of the RTC before right hind foot contact and of the LTC before left hind foot contact (Hip_hike_diff) would be the most robust single tubera coxarum‐based visual assessment method.Main limitationsIn the absence of published data regarding the frequency of different movement patterns and hip rotation adaptations in clinical practice, this study cannot indicate the proportion of assessments that would be incorrect for a given visual assessment method.ConclusionsUsing a single tubera coxarum‐based visual hindlimb lameness assessment method may lead to incorrect clinical judgement. Therefore, using multiple assessment methods would be beneficial to substantiate impressions.
The role of PI3'‐lipid signalling in melanoma initiation, progression and maintenance
Authors: Parkman Gennie L. , Foth Mona , Kircher David A. , Holmen Sheri L. , McMahon Martin 
Published: October 2021

AbstractPhosphatidylinositol‐3'‐kinases (PI3Ks) are a family of lipid kinases that phosphorylate the 3' hydroxyl (OH) of the inositol ring of phosphatidylinositides (PI). Through their downstream effectors, PI3K generated lipids (PI3K‐lipids hereafter) such as PI(3,4,5)P3 and PI(3,4)P2 regulate myriad biochemical and biological processes in both normal and cancer cells including responses to growth hormones and cytokines; the cell division cycle; cell death; cellular growth; angiogenesis; membrane dynamics; and autophagy and many aspects of cellular metabolism. Engagement of receptor tyrosine kinase by their cognate ligands leads to activation of members of the Class I family of PI3'‐kinases (PI3Kα, β, δ & γ) leading to accumulation of PI3K‐lipids. Importantly, PI3K‐lipid accumulation is antagonized by the hydrolytic action of a number of PI3K‐lipid phosphatases, most notably the melanoma suppressor PTEN (lipid phosphatase and tensin homologue). Downstream of PI3K‐lipid production, the protein kinases AKT1‐3 are believed to be key effectors of PI3'‐kinase signalling in cells. Indeed, in preclinical models, activation of the PI3K→AKT signalling axis cooperates with alterations such as expression of the BRAFV600E oncoprotein kinase to promote melanoma progression and metastasis. In this review, we describe the different classes of PI3K‐lipid effectors, and how they may promote melanomagenesis, influence the tumour microenvironment, melanoma maintenance and progression to metastatic disease. We also provide an update on both FDA‐approved or experimental inhibitors of the PI3K→AKT pathway that are currently being evaluated for the treatment of melanoma either in preclinical models or in clinical trials.
Erythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva due to a novel mutation in GJB4
Authors: Zhang Xilin , Xu Peng , Lu Jiajing , Ding Yangfeng , Gu Jun , Shi Yuling 
Published: October 2021

AbstractErythrokeratodermia variabilis et progressiva (EKVP) is a rare genodermatosis of clinical and genetic heterogeneity, characterized by the manifestations of localized or disseminated persistent hyperkeratotic plagues and stationary to migratory transient erythematous patches. The majority of EKVP cases display an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance with incomplete penetrance, although recessive transmission has also been described. Mutations associated with EKVP have been primarily detected in connexin (Cx) genes. We herein reported a Chinese sporadic case of late‐onset EKVP with a novel heterozygous missense mutation c.109G>A (p.V37M) in GJB4 (Cx30.3) gene, which resulted in a significant reduction of GJB4 expression in the epidermis of the patient. In accordance, while wild‐type GJB4 localized at the cell membrane of HeLa cells forming intercellular junctions and intracellular puncta, V37M mutant variant was diffusely expressed within HeLa cells at a considerably lower level. Our findings reveal an essential role of GJB4 in the pathogenesis of EKVP and provides insights into the therapeutic potential of the disease.
The combination of biochar and PGPBs stimulates the differentiation in rhizosphere soil microbiome and metabolites to suppress soil‐borne pathogens under consecutive monoculture regimes
Authors: Wu Hongmiao , Wu Huiming , Jiao Yanyang , Zhang Zhongyi , Rensing Christopher , Lin Wenxiong 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe application of biochar and plant‐growth‐promoting bacteria (PGPBs) in biocontrol soil‐borne pathogens has garnered worldwide interest recently. However, how agricultural replanting disease is alleviated by a combination of biochar and PGPBs treatment (SYBB) remains largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the beneficial effects of single biochar addition and the combination of biochar and PGPBs on alleviating replanting disease by altering the rhizosphere microbiome and metabolites. Our field experiment showed that the SYBB treatment had a better alleviating effect on replanting disease than the single biochar addition. The study indicated the dominant effect of deterministic processes on the bacterial community and of stochastic processes on the fungal community under biochar and PGPBs treatment. The combination of biochar and PGPBs tended to convert the stochastic processes of fungal community assembly into deterministic processes. We found SYBB treatment increased the abundance of potentially beneficial Pseudomonas, Lysobacter, Gemmatimonadetes and Nitrospira, and decreasing the abundance of potentially pathogenic Fusarium, Talaromyces and Fusarium oxysporum. Moreover, the SYBB treatment increased the abundances of carbohydrates, fatty acids and plant hormones, and decreased the abundances of amino acids in the rhizosphere soil. Co‐occurrence network analysis indicated that SYBB treatment increased the connections within the microbial communities and drove the alteration of co‐occurrence network among the microbial communities and metabolites, which increased positive correlations in bacteria‐metabolite networks and decreased positive correlations in fungi‐metabolite networks. Spearman correlation analysis showed the abundances of beneficial Streptomyces, Pseudomonas and Lysobacter were significantly and positively correlated to the metabolites most increased under SYBB treatment. The combination of biochar and PGPBs alleviated replanting disease by mediating the change of rhizosphere soil metabolites, and stimulating the proliferation of indigenous and beneficial soil microbes. The research results are intended to provide the basis for new strategies for green and sustainable remediation of soil‐borne pathogens.
Trends of endodontic and periapical status in adult Danish populations from 1997 to 2009: A repeated cross‐sectional study
Authors: Razdan Ankur , Jungnickel Luise , Schropp Lars , Væth Michael , Kirkevang Lise‐Lotte 
Published: October 2021

AbstractAimTo compare the endodontic and periapical status of two similar adult Danish populations examined in 1997–1998 and 2007–2009, respectively.MethodologyTwo populations from Aarhus County, Denmark (age range: 20–64 years) were randomly selected using the Danish Civil Registration System. Full‐mouth intraoral radiographs (14 periapical, 2 bitewing) of 616 individuals in 1997–1998 (C1: 16 018 teeth) and 398 individuals in 2007–2009 (C2: 10 668 teeth) were taken to ascertain the number of teeth, presence of root fillings (RFs) and apical periodontitis (AP) using the periapical index (PAI). T‐tests with unequal variances were used to assess differences between C1 and C2 with respect to age and the number of teeth. Multivariable and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to assess the effect of cohort, age and tooth type on the prevalence and relative frequency of RFs and AP.ResultsMean age and mean number of teeth were higher in C2 than C1 (age; C1: 42.3 years, C2: 44.6 years; p = .003), (teeth; C1: 26.0, C2: 26.8; p < .001). The prevalence of root filled teeth was lower in C2 than C1 (C1: 51.8%, C2: 45.0%; p = .03); however, the prevalence of AP was similar (C1: 42.0%, C2: 45.0%). The relative frequency of root filled teeth was lower in C2 than C1 (C1: 4.8%, C2: 3.6%; p = .004), although the individuals were older in C2. The relative frequency of AP was similar in the two cohorts (C1: 3.3%, C2: 3.6%; p = .42). The relative frequency of AP in non‐root filled teeth doubled from 0.9% in C1 to 1.8% in C2. C2 had higher PAI scores than C1 for root filled and non‐root filled teeth, despite age correction (p ≤ .0007).ConclusionsTwo similar general Danish populations examined, respectively, in 1997–1998 and 2007–2009, were associated with a decreasing trend in the prevalence and relative frequency of RFs over the decade. There was no difference in relative frequency of AP in root filled teeth, but an increase in relative frequency of AP in non‐root filled teeth. Further population‐based studies including analysis of non‐root filled teeth using the full‐scale PAI and quality assessment of restorations are recommended.
A comprehensive review of IL‐26 to pave a new way for a profound understanding of the pathobiology of cancer, inflammatory diseases and infections
Authors: Gowhari Shabgah Arezoo , Abdelbasset Walid Kamal , Sulaiman Rahman Heshu , Bokov Dmitry O. , Suksatan Wanich , Thangavelu Lakshmi , Ahmadi Majid , Malekahmadi Mahsa , Gheibihayat Seyed Mohammad , Gholizadeh Navashenaq Jamshid 
Published: October 2021

AbstractCytokines are considered vital mediators of the immune system. Down‐ or upregulation of these mediators is linked to several inflammatory and pathologic situations. IL‐26 is referred to as an identified member of the IL‐10 family and IL‐20 subfamily. Due to having a unique cationic structure, IL‐26 exerts diverse functions in several diseases. Since IL‐26 is mainly secreted from Th17, it is primarily considered a pro‐inflammatory cytokine. Upon binding to its receptor complex (IL‐10R1/IL‐20R2), IL‐26 activates multiple signalling mediators, especially STAT1/STAT3. In cancer, IL‐26 induces IL‐22‐producing cells, which consequently decrease cytotoxic T‐cell functions and promote tumour growth through activating anti‐apoptotic proteins. In hypersensitivity conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis and allergic disease, this cytokine functions primarily as the disease‐promoting mediator and might be considered a biomarker for disease prognosis. Although IL‐26 exerts antimicrobial function in infections such as hepatitis, tuberculosis and leprosy, it has also been shown that IL‐26 might be involved in the pathogenesis and exacerbation of sepsis. Besides, the involvement of IL‐26 has been confirmed in other conditions, including graft‐versus‐host disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Therefore, due to the multifarious function of this cytokine, it is proposed that the underlying mechanism regarding IL‐26 function should be elucidated. Collectively, it is hoped that the examination of IL‐26 in several contexts might be promising in predicting disease prognosis and might introduce novel approaches in the treatment of various diseases.
Depletion of m6A reader protein YTHDC1 induces dilated cardiomyopathy by abnormal splicing of Titin
Authors: Gao Siyun , Sun Haifeng , Chen Kejing , Gu Xueying , Chen Hongyu , Jiang Liudan , Chen Lei , Zhang Shengqi , Liu Yi , Shi Dan , Liang Dandan , Xu Liang , Yang Jian , Ruan Yanjiao , Chen Hao , Shen Bin , Ma Honghui , Chen Yi‐Han 
Published: October 2021

AbstractN6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent modification in mRNA and engages in multiple biological processes. Previous studies indicated that m6A methyltransferase METTL3 (‘writer’) and demethylase FTO (‘eraser’) play critical roles in heart‐related disease. However, in the heart, the function of m6A ‘reader’, such as YTH (YT521‐B homology) domain‐containing proteins remains unclear. Here, we report that the defect in YTHDC1 but not other YTH family members contributes to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in mice. Cardiac‐specific conditional Ythdc1 knockout led to obvious left ventricular chamber enlargement and severe systolic dysfunction. YTHDC1 deficiency also resulted in the decrease of cardiomyocyte contractility and disordered sarcomere arrangement. By means of integrating multiple high‐throughput sequence technologies, including m6A‐MeRIP, RIP‐seq and mRNA‐seq, we identified 42 transcripts as potential downstream targets of YTHDC1. Amongst them, we found that Titin mRNA was decorated with m6A modification and depletion of YTHDC1 resulted in aberrant splicing of Titin. Our study suggests that Ythdc1 plays crucial role in regulating the normal contractile function and the development of DCM. These findings clarify the essential role of m6A reader in cardiac biofunction and provide a novel potential target for the treatment of DCM.
In vitro mastication of cooked rice: How it influences the bolus characteristics
Authors: Asimi Sailimuhan , Ren Xin , Zhang Min , Zhongyan Xie , Amjad Sohail , Liu Dongxiao , Qixin Lv , Wang Zhenhua , Liang Shan , Wang Ziyuan 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBy the in vitro simulation of mastication, we studied the variation of cooked rice in terms of mastication parameters. However, because there is no in vitro model for cooked rice, it was impossible to specifically study the effect of mastication parameters on the properties of the rice bolus. Therefore, first we established an in vitro model, and then, we explored the effects of saliva addition, α‐amylase, and blending time on the physical properties of cooked Japonica rice in an in vitro simulation of mastication. The results showed that with the increasing saliva addition, the degree of lubrication, transverse relaxation time of free water (T23), and proportion of free water (A23) significantly increased, and the degree of structure, the elastic modulus (G′), and the viscous modulus (G″) of the bolus significantly decreased. With the increase of α‐amylase, the A23 significantly increased, and the degree of structure, G′, and G″ of the bolus significantly decreased. Increased blending times decreased the particle size of rice, resulting in the decrease of G′ and G″, while, A23 significantly increased, and the microstructure of the bolus became looser. Overall, the trends observed with different blending and different saliva addition models for simulated saliva fluid with 75 U/mL of α‐amylase were similar to those of an in vivo mastication model.Practical ApplicationsIn vitro simulation of oral processing depends on saliva composition, saliva addition, and the effect of salivary enzymes on food and food type. Therefore, through the in vitro simulating oral processing, we have been better studied the changes of sensory characteristics of rice with oral processing parameters. Thus, this study provides a simple, fast, and reproducible method for studying mastication's dynamic changes in rice's flavor, taste, and texture. Furthermore, this study provides a method for the in vitro mastication of rice and other foods. In addition, it offers scientific basis and theoretical reference for the variety improvement of Japonica rice and the quality improvement of instant rice.
Effectiveness of combined microfocused ultrasound with visualization and subdermal calcium hydroxyapatite injections for the management of brachial skin laxity
Authors: Ramirez Sylvia , Puah Ivan Boon Kwang 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere is no publication to date on the combined use of microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU‐V) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) for brachial skin laxity.AimTo assess the effectiveness of combining MFU‐V with diluted/hyperdiluted CaHA in a single session for treating brachial skin laxity.Subjects/MethodsFemale subjects who had skin laxity in the brachial regions and who desired non‐surgical intervention were enrolled into this prospective, single‐arm pilot study. MFU‐V (Ultherapy®, Merz North America, Inc. Raleigh, N.C.) was applied using the 4.0 MHz‐4.5 mm and 7.0 MHz‐3.0 mm depth transducers, followed by subdermal injections of diluted (1:1)/hyperdiluted (1:2) CaHA (Radiesse®, Merz North America, Inc). Subjects were followed for six months after treatment. Objective biophysical skin assessments were conducted using a cutometer (Cutometer® Dual 580 MPA; Courage & Khazaka, Cologne, Germany). Subjective assessments included the arm visual analogue scale (VAS), global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS), and subject global satisfaction scale.ResultsTwelve subjects participated in the study. The mean R0 reading (measure of skin firmness) progressively improved from 0.515 mm at baseline to 0.433 mm at 24 weeks (p < 0.05 for 12 and 24 weeks). The mean R2 reading (measure of skin elasticity) and mean arm VAS improved significantly from baseline at all visits (p < 0.05 for all). The majority of subjects at each visit showed improved arm appearance and were satisfied with their treatment. Both procedures were well‐tolerated.ConclusionsCombined use of MFU‐V with diluted/hyperdiluted CaHA demonstrates significant improvements in both objective and subjective measures of brachial skin laxity.
Evaluation of safety and efficacy of a new device for muscle toning and body shaping
Authors: Leone Alessandro , Piccolo Domenico , Conforti Claudio , Pieri Laura , Fusco Irene 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe spread of non‐invasive procedures for fat deposits removal has increased rapidly in recent years. In the field of esthetic medicine, high‐intensity focused electromagnetic field (HIFEM) technology has recently been introduced, as a tool for toning and strengthening muscles, which goes far beyond normal physical exercise.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new device for body remodeling.MethodsA set of 15 patients (7 males and 8 females, BMI 24.05 ± 2.01 kg m−2, age 32–57) participated in this study. Patients were enrolled at Dermatos center, Montesilvano, Abruzzo, Italy. The technology used is FMS (Flat Magnetic Stimulation): 6–8 treatment sessions were performed. The sessions must be repeated twice a week, with a minimum of 2 days between each session. Treatment duration varies from 20 to 45 min, depending on patients.ResultsDuring 1‐month follow‐up after the last treatment evaluations, the results showed tonification, the strengthening of muscles, and the reduction of localized adiposity. There is a significant reduction in waist circumference (80.7 ± 4.3 cm vs 77.3 ± 5.6 cm, p < 0.001). All patients showed relatively high satisfaction immediately after the last treatment.ConclusionsOur data show that intense muscle activity is generated by FMS treatments, suggesting that this technology could be used as a convenient and effective muscle toning tool.
Does couple communication predict later relationship quality and dissolution? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Kanter Jeremy B. , Lavner Justin A. , Lannin Daniel G. , Hilgard Joseph , Monk J. Kale 
Published: October 2021

AbstractObjectiveTo estimate the overall effect between positive and negative communication behaviors and later relationship quality and dissolution.BackgroundBehavioral models of relationship development argue that the quality of couples' communication is key to understanding later relational outcomes. However, longitudinal studies have yielded inconsistent associations between communication behaviors and subsequent relationship functioning, leaving questions about the robustness of these effects.MethodTo explore these potential associations, we conducted a meta‐analysis of 64 dyadic studies and 1784 parameter estimates to generate a weighted average effect of positive and negative communication behaviors predicting later relationship quality and dissolution. We conducted multiple‐regression moderation analyses to identify key study‐level moderators.ResultsPositive (rwithin‐partner = .15, p < .001; rcross‐partner = .09, p = .017) and negative (rwithin‐partner = −.17, p < .001; rcross‐partner = −.16, p < .001) communication behaviors had a small and significant effect on later relationship quality. Positive communication behaviors had a small but not statistically significant effect on relationship dissolution (d = 0.24, p = .105), whereas negative communication behaviors had a small‐to‐moderate statistically significant effect on relationship dissolution (d = −0.41, p < .001). Few study‐level characteristics consistently moderated these associations.ConclusionsThis meta‐analysis indicates that couples' positive and negative communication behaviors are reliably associated with their later relationship quality, and couples' negative communication is associated with later dissolution. However, these effects are small, suggesting single, early assessments of positive and negative communication behaviors may be only modestly predictive of later relationship functioning. Greater attention to other factors that interact with communication to predict couples' outcomes over time is needed.