bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In vitro evaluation of the influence of titanium nitride coating on the retention force between components of two-part abutments
Authors: Freifrau von Maltzahn Nadine , Holstermann Jan , Stiesch Meike , Kohorst Philipp 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background
Two-part abutments are typically made up of a base composed of titanium and a ceramic build-up. The long-term outcomes are affected by the mechanical durability. The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate and compare the retention force of two-part abutment systems with titanium or titanium nitride bases—as fixed with zirconia components and with various surface treatments.

Methods
A total of 60 two-part abutments were investigated—with a titanium base (n = 30) or titanium nitride coated bases (n = 30) and bonded with zirconia ceramic build-ups. The bonding surfaces were treated with aluminium oxide blasting, with an average particle size of 110 µm. The titanium bases were then pretreated with Alloy Primer or Clearfil Ceramic Primer. The ceramic build-ups were only treated with Clearfil Ceramic Primer. For twenty test specimens, no chemical pretreatment was performed. Test specimens were classified into six groups in accordance with the pretreatment (A–F; n = 10). A resin-based luting agent was employed to attach the two parts. Specimens were then subjected to artificial thermal aging (104 cycles with 5 °C/55 °C). The retention force between the two parts was then investigated with a pull-off test. The findings were analyzed by ANOVA statistics. Fracture patterns were examined by electron microscopy.

Results
In the absence of primer, titanium nitride coated bases gave significantly greater retention forces than other samples (p < 0.05). Chemical preconditioning with silane coupling agents did not effect on the retention force of coated bases.

Conclusions
The results of the current study suggested that modifying metal surfaces by coating the base with titanium nitride not only has esthetic and biological advantages, but also enhances the mechanical properties of the adhesive bond of two-part abutments.
Effects, barriers and facilitators in predischarge home assessments to improve the transition of care from the inpatient care to home in adult patients: an integrative review
Authors: Kirchner-Heklau Uta , Krause Kai , Saal Susanne 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background
Predischarge home assessments (PDHA) aim to support safe discharge from hospital or rehabilitation. There is insufficient evidence on the effectiveness of PDHA. For adults with any diagnosis, we aimed to determine (1) the effects of PDHA on outcomes associated with the successful return to community living (e.g., Activities of Daily Living, falls) and (2) the associated barriers and facilitators in order to derive recommendations for clinical practice.

Methods
We searched Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, five additional databases and other sources. We included individual and cluster randomized (RCT/cRCT) and controlled clinical trials comparing PDHA versus usual care/other intervention, as well as qualitative/mixed methods studies dealing with PDHA. Critical appraisal was performed according to the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool in quantitative studies and the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) as well as the McMaster University Guidelines for Critical Review Form for qualitative studies and data extraction. Meta-analysis, thematic synthesis and integrative synthesis were performed.

Results
Eight RCTs (n = 1072) and ten qualitative studies (n = 336) met the inclusion criteria. RCTs reported a variety of outcomes (n = 17). We are uncertain if PDHA has any effect on patient outcomes in Activities of Daily Living, quality of life, mobility and fear of falling, falls and hospital readmissions (with moderate to very low quality of the evidence). The qualitative studies revealed facilitators and barriers which should be considered by therapists when conducting PDHA. These were related to the following topics: patient safety education, patient information, patients’ acceptance of modifications and aids, functional assessment, standardization of procedures as well as the consideration of relevant patient conditions and contextual factors in PDHA.

Conclusion
There is no evidence from the meta-analysis for the effectiveness of PDHA. Further robust studies are needed to adapt and evaluate PDHA interventions, taking the identified stakeholders’ views on PDHA into account and following the current recommendations for the development and evaluation of complex interventions.

Trial registration
The review was registered and methods were reported on PROSPERO on 18th July 2018 (CRD42018100636).
Boundaries potentiate polycomb response element-mediated silencing
Authors: Erokhin Maksim , Gorbenko Fedor , Lomaev Dmitry , Mazina Marina Yu , Mikhailova Anna , Garaev Azat K. , Parshikov Aleksander , Vorobyeva Nadezhda E. , Georgiev Pavel , Schedl Paul , Chetverina Darya 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackgroundEpigenetic memory plays a critical role in the establishment and maintenance of cell identities in multicellular organisms. Polycomb and trithorax group (PcG and TrxG) proteins are responsible for epigenetic memory, and in flies, they are recruited to specialized DNA regulatory elements termed polycomb response elements (PREs). Previous transgene studies have shown that PREs can silence reporter genes outside of their normal context, often by pairing sensitive (PSS) mechanism; however, their silencing activity is non-autonomous and depends upon the surrounding chromatin context. It is not known why PRE activity depends on the local environment or what outside factors can induce silencing.ResultsUsing an attP system inDrosophila, we find that the so-called neutral chromatin environments vary substantially in their ability to support the silencing activity of the well-characterizedbxdPRE. In refractory chromosomal contexts, factors required for PcG-silencing are unable to gain access to the PRE. Silencing activity can be rescued by linking thebxdPRE to a boundary element (insulator). When placed next to the PRE, the boundaries induce an alteration in chromatin structure enabling factors critical for PcG silencing to gain access to thebxdPRE. When placed at a distance from thebxdPRE, boundaries induce PSS by bringing thebxdPREs on each homolog in close proximity.ConclusionThis proof-of-concept study demonstrates that the repressing activity of PREs can be induced or enhanced by nearby boundary elements.Graphical abstract
Sexual conflict drives micro- and macroevolution of sexual dimorphism in immunity
Authors: Bagchi Basabi , Corbel Quentin , Khan Imroze , Payne Ellen , Banerji Devshuvam , Liljestrand-Rönn Johanna , Martinossi-Allibert Ivain , Baur Julian , Sayadi Ahmed , Immonen Elina , Arnqvist Göran , Söderhäll Irene , Berger David 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background
Sexual dimorphism in immunity is believed to reflect sex differences in reproductive strategies and trade-offs between competing life history demands. Sexual selection can have major effects on mating rates and sex-specific costs of mating and may thereby influence sex differences in immunity as well as associated host–pathogen dynamics. Yet, experimental evidence linking the mating system to evolved sexual dimorphism in immunity are scarce and the direct effects of mating rate on immunity are not well established. Here, we use transcriptomic analyses, experimental evolution and phylogenetic comparative methods to study the association between the mating system and sexual dimorphism in immunity in seed beetles, where mating causes internal injuries in females.

Results
We demonstrate that female phenoloxidase (PO) activity, involved in wound healing and defence against parasitic infections, is elevated relative to males. This difference is accompanied by concomitant sex differences in the expression of genes in the prophenoloxidase activating cascade. We document substantial phenotypic plasticity in female PO activity in response to mating and show that experimental evolution under enforced monogamy (resulting in low remating rates and reduced sexual conflict relative to natural polygamy) rapidly decreases female (but not male) PO activity. Moreover, monogamous females had evolved increased tolerance to bacterial infection unrelated to mating, implying that female responses to costly mating may trade off with other aspects of immune defence, an hypothesis which broadly accords with the documented sex differences in gene expression. Finally, female (but not male) PO activity shows correlated evolution with the perceived harmfulness of male genitalia across 12 species of seed beetles, suggesting that sexual conflict has a significant influence on sexual dimorphisms in immunity in this group of insects.

Conclusions
Our study provides insights into the links between sexual conflict and sexual dimorphism in immunity and suggests that selection pressures moulded by mating interactions can lead to a sex-specific mosaic of immune responses with important implications for host–pathogen dynamics in sexually reproducing organisms.
Evaluation of the effect of vitamin D supplementation on spermatogram, seminal and serum levels of oxidative stress indices in asthenospermia infertile men: a study protocol for a triple-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Maghsoumi-Norouzabad Leila , Zare Javid Ahmad , Mansoori Anahita , Dadfar Mohammadreza , Serajian Amirarsalan 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackgroundIt is suggested that vitamin D may have a beneficial role in male reproduction. The male reproductive system is a target tissue for vitamin D. This study will aim to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on sperm parameters, seminal and serum levels of oxidative stress and serum endocrine factors in asthenospermia infertile men.Methods/designThis randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial will be conducted on 86 infertile men with idiopathic asthenozoospermia (the mobility of sperm < 40% and rapid progressive sperm motility < 32%), with serum levels of vitamin D less than 30 ng / ml in the “Infertility Clinic of Ahvaz Jahad daneshgahi”, Iran.Main outcomes measure (s)Demographic data, dietary intake, physical activity, sun exposure, anthropometric indices, serum and seminal levels of MDA (Malondialdehyde), 8-hydroxy-2- Dioxy Guanosine (8-OHDG), Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) and calcium, sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), serum 25-OHD, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), free androgen index (FAI = T/SHBG. 100), T/LH and T/E2 ratios, prolactin (PRO), parathyroid hormone (PTH), osteocalcin (OCN), phosphorus and sperm parameters.DiscussionThe deficiency of vitamin D as an antioxidant is common all over the world. Numerous observational studies have shown a positive association between vitamin D levels and semen quality. However, few clinical studies have been conducted in this area. So considering with the high prevalence of this antioxidant deficiency specifically in infertile men, it seems that the supplementation of vitamin D in infertile men with insufficient levels or deficiency may improve the status of oxidative stress and thereby may affect sperm parameters and endocrine factors involved in male fertility.Trial registrationIran Clinical Trials Registry, ID:IRCT20151128025274N4, registered on 28 March 2018.
Comprehensive analysis of LncRNAs expression profiles in an in vitro model of steatosis treated with Exendin-4
Authors: Errafii Khaoula , Al-Akl Neyla S. , Khalifa Olfa , Arredouani Abdelilah 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackground and aimsThe hallmark of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the excessive hepatic lipid accumulation. Currently, no pharmacotherapy exists for NAFLD. However, the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists have recently emerged as potential therapeutics. Here, we sought to identify the long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) associated with the steatosis improvement induced by the GLP-1R agonist Exendin-4 (Ex-4) in vitro.MethodsSteatosis was induced in HepG2 cells with oleic acid. The transcriptomic profiling was performed using total RNA extracted from untreated, steatotic, and Ex-4-treated steatotic cells. We validated a subset of differentially expressed LncRNAs with qRT-PCR and identified the most significantly enriched cellular functions associated with the relevant LncRNAs.ResultsWe confirm that Ex-4 improves steatosis in HepG2 cells. We found 379 and 180 differentially expressed LncRNAs between untreated and steatotic cells and between steatotic and Ex-4-treated steatotic cells, respectively. Interestingly, 22 upregulated LncRNAs in steatotic cells became downregulated with Ex-4 exposure, while 50 downregulated LncRNAs in steatotic cells became upregulated in the presence of Ex-4. Although some LncRNAs, such as MALAT1, H19, and NEAT1, were previously associated with NAFLD, the association of others with steatosis and the positive effect of Ex-4 is being reported for the first time. Functional enrichment analysis identified many critical pathways, including fatty acid and pyruvate metabolism, and insulin, PPAR, Wnt, TGF-β, mTOR, VEGF, NOD-like, and Toll-like receptors signaling pathways.ConclusionOur results suggest that LncRNAs may play essential roles in the mechanisms underlying steatosis improvement in response to GLP-1R agonists and warrant further functional studies.
First report of X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia with a hemizygous c.1142G > C in the EDA gene: variant of uncertain significance or new pathogenic variant?
Authors: Tumminello Mario , Gangemi Antonella , Matina Federico , Guardino Melania , Giuffrè Bianca Lea , Corsello Giovanni 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackgroundHypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia (HED) is a genetic disorder which affects structures of ectodermal origin. X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (XLHED) is the most common form of disease. XLHED is characterized by hypotrichosis, hypohydrosis and hypodontia. The cardinal features of classic HED become obvious during childhood.Identification of a hemizygous EDA pathogenic variant in an affected male confirms the diagnosis.Case presentationWe report on a male newborn with the main clinical characteristics of the X-linked HED including hypotrichosis, hypodontia and hypohidrosis. Gene panel sequencing identified a new hemizygous missense variant of uncertain significance (VUS) c.1142G > C (p.Gly381Ala) in the EDA gene, located on the X chromosome and inherited from the healthy mother.ConclusionDespite the potential functional impact of VUS remains uncharacterized, our goal is to evaluate the clinical potential consequences of missense VUS on EDA gene. Even if the proband’s phenotype is characteristic for classic HED, further reports of patients with same clinical phenotype and the same genomic variant are needed to consider this novel VUS as responsible for the development of HED.
The impact of National Containment Measures on a Pediatric Italian regional Hub for COVID-19, an observational study
Authors: Crea Francesca , Panfili Filippo Maria , Amodeo Maria Elisa , Fintini Danilo , Rossi Francesco Paolo , Trenta Italo , Menichella Alessandra , Ossella Chiara , Deidda Andrea , Lidano Roberta , Macchiarulo Giulia , Lambiase Caterina , Barbieri Maria Antonietta , Raponi Massimiliano 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Background
Numerous studies described the epidemiological link and main clinical features of pediatric COVID-19, during the first pandemic period. Our study encompasses several different phases since the National Lockdown in Italy. The primary outcome is (I) to analyze the prevalence of positive NST (Nasopharyngeal Swab Test) among the largest Italian Pediatric cohort admitted to a single regional PED Hub for COVID-19 during an eight-month period. Secondary outcomes are: (II) the description of trend of admissions in our PED and (III) the categorization of the positive patients according to clinical manifestations and epidemiological link.

Methods
We described 316 patients with a positive NST for SARS-CoV2, on a total of 5001 nasopharyngeal swabs performed among 13,171 admissions at our PED, over a period starting from March 17th, 2020 to December 1st, 2020. Age, epidemiological link, clinical features and hospitalizations were analyzed according to different lockdown phases. Data were collected anonymously from electronic records and analyzed using SPSS 22.00 statistics software (Chicago, IL).

Results
Thirty-six percent of total admissions have been tested. During the post lockdown period, we performed the highest percentage of NST (Nasopharyngeal Swab Test) 49.7%, and among them 7.9% were positive. The prevalence of infection during a 10-month period was 2.3%. Mean age was 6.5 years old. Familial Link accounted for the 67.7% of infection, while Extrafamilial and Unknown link accounted for 17 and 14.9%, respectively. Familial link is predominant during all phases. Seventeen patients showed an intra-scholastic link, and the highest prevalence was observed in the 7–10 years age group, with a prevalence of 12.8% (5 patients). Fever was the most frequent symptom (66%), in particular among preschooler children aged 0–6 years (71.9%). Older children were more frequently symptomatic. Seven patients were admitted with MIS-C diagnosis.

Conclusions
Different levels of containment measures caused important changes in number of positive NST for SARS-CoV2. Familial link was predominant in our cohort, during all phases of Lockdown. The risk of being infected at home is four time greater than the risk of being infected from an extra familial individual. Further studies are needed to evaluate the clear impact of intra-scholastic link. The constant improvement in knowledge on onset symptoms and risk factor for SARS-CoV2 infection and its complications (e.g. MIS-C), can impact on number of hospitalizations, ICU admissions and early management.
State of the art on lung organoids in mammals
Authors: Archer Fabienne , Bobet-Erny Alexandra , Gomes Maryline 
Published: June 2021

AbstractThe number and severity of diseases affecting lung development and adult respiratory function have stimulated great interest in developing new in vitro models to study lung in different species. Recent breakthroughs in 3-dimensional (3D) organoid cultures have led to new physiological in vitro models that better mimic the lung than conventional 2D cultures. Lung organoids simulate multiple aspects of the real organ, making them promising and useful models for studying organ development, function and disease (infection, cancer, genetic disease). Due to their dynamics in culture, they can serve as a sustainable source of functional cells (biobanking) and be manipulated genetically. Given the differences between species regarding developmental kinetics, the maturation of the lung at birth, the distribution of the different cell populations along the respiratory tract and species barriers for infectious diseases, there is a need for species-specific lung models capable of mimicking mammal lungs as they are of great interest for animal health and production, following the One Health approach. This paper reviews the latest developments in the growing field of lung organoids.
Potential applications of aptamers in veterinary science
Authors: Niederlender Solène , Fontaine Jean-Jacques , Karadjian Grégory 
Published: June 2021

AbstractAptamers are small nucleic acids that fold in a three-dimensional conformation allowing them to bind specifically to a target. This target can be an organic molecule, free or carried in cells or tissues, or inorganic components, such as metal ions. Analogous to monoclonal antibodies, aptamers however have certain advantages over the latter: e.g., high specificity for their target, no to low immunogenicity and easy in vitro selection. Since their discovery more than 30 years ago, aptamers have led to various applications, although mainly restricted to basic research. This work reviews the applications of aptamers in veterinary science to date. First, we present aptamers, how they are selected and their properties, then we give examples of applications in food and environmental safety, as well as in diagnosis and medical treatment in the field of veterinary medicine. Because examples of applications in veterinary medicine are scarce, we explore the potential avenues for future applications based on discoveries made in human medicine. Aptamers may offer new possibilities for veterinarians to diagnose certain diseases—particularly infectious diseases—more rapidly or “at the patient’s bedside”. All the examples highlight the growing interest in aptamers and the premises of a potential market. Aptamers may benefit animals as well as their owners, breeders and even public health in a “One Health” approach.
Exercise and QUality diet After Leukemia (The EQUAL Study): An intervention trial in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS).
Authors: Tonorezos Emily S. , Clark Jeanne M. , Moskowitz Chaya S. , Ford Jennifer S. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Chou Joanne F. , Mubdi Nidha Z. , McDonald Aaron , Sklar Charles A. , Ramanathan Lakshmi , Robison Leslie L. , Oeffinger Kevin C. 
Published: June 2021

10015 Background: Survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are at risk for obesity and cardiovascular (CV) disease. Exposure to cranial radiotherapy (CRT) increases risks. We tested whether a weight loss intervention that was successful in the general population could result in weight loss or improvements CV risk factors for ALL survivors. Methods: Obese and overweight 5-year ALL survivors diagnosed < age 21 from CCSS were randomized to a 24-month remotely delivered diet/physical activity intervention or self-directed weight loss (control), stratified by CRT. The intervention emphasized a low calorie DASH diet and physical activity via an app, a website, and weekly coach calls. The primary endpoint was difference in weight loss after 24 months, using an intent-to-treat analysis. Secondary endpoints: differences in changes in blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Analyses were performed using linear mixed effects; the study was designed to detect a difference of 2.75 kg. Results: Of 358 survivors (59% female, 91% White non-Hispanic, median age 37, IQR: 33-43), 181 were randomized to the intervention and 177 to control. Baseline mean (SD) weight was 98.6 kg (24.0) for intervention and 94.9 kg (20.3) for controls. 55 (30%) of intervention participants were adherent beyond one year. At 12 months, after controlling for CRT, sex, race/ethnicity, and age, the adjusted mean (SE) change in weight from baseline was -1.83kg (0.7) for intervention and -0.16kg (0.64) for control participants. At 24 months, the adjusted mean (SE) change in weight was -0.36kg (0.78) for intervention and +0.18kg (0.66) for control participants with the average difference of -0.54 kg (95%CI: -2.5,1.5, p=0.59) between the arms. A small proportion had at least 5% weight loss at 24 months (intervention 24%; control 17%). No significant differences in CV risk factors were observed. Conclusions: A 24-month phone and app/web-based diet and physical activity intervention that was successful for weight loss in the general population did not result in greater weight loss or improvement in CV risk factors among adult survivors of childhood ALL. Reduced adherence to the intervention beyond 12 months, or lack of ALL survivor-specific tailoring, may account for these findings. Clinical trial information: NCT02244411. [Table: see text]