bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context-based modulations of 3D vision are expertise dependent
Authors: Li Zhen , Chang Dorita H F
Published: February 2023

An object’s identity can influence depth-position judgments. The mechanistic underpinnings underlying this phenomenon are largely unknown. Here, we asked whether context-dependent modulations of stereoscopic depth perception are expertise dependent. In 2 experiments, we tested whether training that attaches meaning (i.e. classification labels) to otherwise novel, stereoscopically presented objects changes observers’ sensitivity for judging their depth position. In Experiment 1, observers were randomly assigned to 3 groups: a Greeble-classification training group, an orientation-discrimination training group, or a no-training group, and were tested on their stereoscopic depth sensitivity before and after training. In Experiment 2, participants were tested before and after training while fMRI responses were concurrently imaged. Behaviorally, stereoscopic performance was significantly better following Greeble-classification (but not orientation-discrimination, or no-) training. Using the fMRI data, we trained support vector machines to predict whether the data were from the pre- or post-training sessions. Results indicated that classification accuracies in V4 were higher for the Greeble-classification group as compared with the orientation-discrimination group for which accuracies were at chance level. Furthermore, classification accuracies in V4 were negatively correlated with response times for Greeble identification. We speculate that V4 is implicated in an expertise-dependent, object-tuning manner that allows it to better guide stereoscopic depth retrieval.
Alcohol septal ablation versus surgical septal myectomy of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yokoyama Yujiro , Shimoda Tomonari , Shimada Yuichi J , Shimamura Junichi , Akita Keitaro , Yasuda Risako , Takayama Hiroo , Kuno Toshiki
Published: February 2023

OBJECTIVES

To elucidate the optimal septal reduction therapy for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, we conducted a meta-analysis comparing alcohol septal ablation (ASA) and septal myectomy.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched to identify studies investigating the outcomes of ASA and septal myectomy in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in January 2023. The primary outcome of interest was all-cause mortality in studies with ≥1 year of follow-up. The secondary outcomes of interest comprised left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) pressure gradient reduction and reoperations of LVOT. A subgroup analysis of all-cause mortality including studies with follow-up ≥5 years was performed.

RESULTS

27 observational studies were included (15 968 patients). Analysis demonstrated similar all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval) (CI) 1.24 (0.88–1.76); P = 0.21; I2 = 56%]. In contrast, ASA was associated with less reduction of LVOT pressure gradient and a reoperation rate [weighted mean difference (95% CI) 11.04 mmHg (5.60–16.48); P < 0.01; I2 = 64%, HR (95% CI) 9.14 (6.55–12.75); P < 0.001; I2 = 0%, respectively]. The subgroup analysis with follow-up ≥5 years revealed higher long-term mortality with ASA [HR (95% CI) 1.50 (1.04–2.15); P = 0.03; I2 = 52%].

CONCLUSIONS

Although both septal reduction therapies were associated with similar all-cause mortality, ASA was associated with a higher rate of reoperation and less reduction of LVOT pressure gradient. Furthermore, all-cause mortality with follow-up ≥5 years showed favourable outcomes with septal myectomy, although the result is only hypothesis-generating given a subgroup analysis.
Upstream innovation leakage in Uganda’s coffee planting material pipeline
Authors: Diiro Gracious , Kawooya Dick , Lybbert Travis J , Wunsch-Vincent Sacha
Published: February 2023

Policies and institutions shape the incentives that influence innovation, technology adoption and productivity. We characterise the robusta coffee planting material pipeline in Uganda that connects upstream innovation in improved germplasm to downstream coffee producers. A nationally representative survey of coffee nursery operators reveals poor and heterogeneous production practices, potentially reflecting shifting policy priorities. The majority of smallholder coffee farmers consequently get inferior, disease-prone seedlings—thereby locking in decades of continued low productivity. Given Uganda’s ambition to drastically increase coffee production, detecting, understanding and addressing these problems should be a top priority as a prerequisite to effective agricultural policy and enhanced productivity.
A recent experience on the role of influenza vaccination on cardiovascular events
Authors: Sosa-Liprandi María Inés , Zaidel Ezequiel José , Sosa-Liprandi Álvaro
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this review is to update the recent information regarding the role of influenza vaccination (IV) as a strategy to reduce cardiovascular (CV) events. During the last 2 years, new meta-analysis, guidelines, and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were published. The IAMI trial added information regarding the safety and efficacy of IV right after an acute myocardial infarction hospitalization. A significant reduction in the primary endpoint—including mortality—was observed. More recently, the influenza vaccine to prevent vascular events trial (IVVE) trial did not meet the primary CV endpoint in patients with heart failure (HF). However, a significant reduction was observed during the seasonal peaks of Influenza circulation. COVID-19 pandemic provoked recruitment difficulties in these trials, as well as an altered influenza seasonality and incidence. Further analysis of IVVE trial is needed to clarify the precise role of IV in patients with HF. A recent meta-analysis of RCTs and observational studies indicated that IV was safe and effective to reduce CV events, and it was included in the most updated guideline. Despite these benefits, and the recommendations for its prescription by scientific societies and health regulatory agencies, the vaccination rate remains below than expected globally. The correct understanding of implementation barriers, which involve doctors, patients, and their context, is essential when continuous improvement strategies are planned, in order to improve the IV rate in at-risk subjects.
Influenza and cardiovascular disease pathophysiology: strings attached
Authors: Skaarup Kristoffer Grundtvig , Modin Daniel , Nielsen Lene , Jensen Jens Ulrik Stæhr , Biering-Sørensen Tor
Published: February 2023

A link between influenza infection and cardiovascular morbidity has been known for almost a century. This narrative review examined the cardiovascular complications associated with influenza and the potential mechanisms behind this relationship. The most common reported cardiovascular complications are cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and heart failure hospitalization. There are multiple proposed mechanisms driving the increased risk of cardiovascular complications. These mechanics involve influenza-specific effects such as direct cardiac infection and endothelial dysfunction leading to plaque destabilization and rupture, but also hypoxaemia and systemic inflammatory responses including increased metabolic demand, biomechanical stress, and hypercoagulability. The significance of the individual effects is unclear, and thus whether influenza directly or indirectly causes cardiovascular events is unknown. In conclusion, the risk of acute cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is elevated during influenza infection. The proposed underlying pathophysiological mechanisms support this association, but systemic responses to infection may drive this relationship.
Cultural transmission of reproductive success impacts genomic diversity, coalescent tree topologies, and demographic inferences
Authors: Guez Jérémy , Achaz Guillaume , Bienvenu François , Cury Jean , Toupance Bruno , Heyer Évelyne , Jay Flora , Austerlitz Frédéric
Published: February 2023

Cultural transmission of reproductive success has been observed in many human populations as well as other animals. Cultural transmission of reproductive success consists of a positive correlation of nongenetic origin between the progeny size of parents and children. This correlation can result from various factors, such as the social influence of parents on their children, the increase of children’s survival through allocare from uncles and aunts, or the transmission of resources. Here, we study the evolution of genomic diversity over time under cultural transmission of reproductive success. Cultural transmission of reproductive success has a threefold impact on population genetics: (1) the effective population size decreases when cultural transmission of reproductive success starts, mimicking a population contraction, and increases back to its original value when cultural transmission of reproductive success stops; (2) coalescent tree topologies are distorted under cultural transmission of reproductive success, with higher imbalance and a higher number of polytomies; and (3) branch lengths are reduced nonhomogenously, with a higher impact on older branches. Under long-lasting cultural transmission of reproductive success, the effective population size stabilizes but the distortion of tree topology and the nonhomogenous branch length reduction remain, yielding U-shaped site frequency spectra under a constant population size. We show that this yields a bias in site frequency spectra-based demographic inference. Considering that cultural transmission of reproductive success was detected in numerous human and animal populations worldwide, one should be cautious because inferring population past histories from genomic data can be biased by this cultural process.
Weather model based atmospheric corrections of Sentinel-1 InSAR deformation data at Turkish volcanoes
Authors: Dogru Fikret , Albino Fabien , Biggs Juliet
Published: February 2023

One of the main constraints on the use of satellite radar data for monitoring natural hazards is the existence of atmospheric signals. In particular, volcanic deformation can be difficult to identify because atmospheric phase delays can mask or even mimic ground deformation signals. Eliminating atmospheric signals is particularly crucial for high-relief volcanoes such as Ağrı, Tendürek, Acigöl, Göllüdağ and Hasandağ in the Eastern and Central Anatolia. To overcome the atmospheric effects, we use high-resolution ECMWF weather models coupled with an empirical phase-elevation approach for correcting Sentinel-1 interferograms. We apply these methods to two areas of Turkey, the first of which covers three volcanoes in Central Anatolia (Acigöl, Göllüdağ, Hasandağ) between January 2016 and December 2018 and the second covers two volcanoes in Eastern Anatolia (Ağrı, Tendürek) between September 2016 and December 2018. The reduction in standard deviation (quality factor) is calculated for both ascending and descending tracks and the atmospheric corrections are found to perform better on descending interferograms in both cases. Then, we use a least-squares approach to produce a time-series. For Central Anatolia, we used 416 ascending and 415 descending interferograms to create 144 and 145 cumulative displacement maps, respectively, and for Eastern Anatolia, we used 390 ascending and 380 descending interferograms to produce 137 and 130 cumulative displacement maps, respectively. We find that the temporal standard deviation before atmospheric corrections ranges between 0.9 and 3.7 cm for the five volcanoes in the region and is consistently higher on ascending track data, which is acquired at the end of the day when solar heating is greatest. Atmospheric correction reduces the standard deviation to 0.5–2.5 cm. Residual signals might be due to the ice-cap at Ağrı and agriculture near Acigöl. We conclude that these volcanoes did not experience significant magmatic deformation during this time period, despite the apparent signals visible in individual uncorrected interferograms. We demonstrate that atmospheric corrections are vital when using InSAR for monitoring the deformation of high-relief volcanoes in arid continental climates such as Turkey.
Generating colorful carrot germplasm through metabolic engineering of betalains pigments
Authors: Deng Yuan-Jie , Duan Ao-Qi , Liu Hui , Wang Ya-Hui , Zhang Rong-Rong , Xu Zhi-Sheng , Xiong Ai-Sheng
Published: February 2023

Betalains are tyrosine-derived plant pigments exclusively found in the Caryophyllales order and some higher fungi and generally classified into two groups: red-violet betacyanins and yellow-orange betaxanthins. Betalains attract great scientific and economic interest because of their relatively simple biosynthesis pathway, attractive colors and health-promoting properties. Co-expressing two core genes BvCYP76AD1 and BvDODA1 with or without a glycosyltransferase gene MjcDOPA5GT allowed the engineering of carrot (an important taproot vegetable) to produce a palette of unique colors. The highest total betalains content, 943.2 μg·g−1 DW, was obtained in carrot taproot transformed with p35S:RUBY which produces all of the necessary enzymes for betalains synthesis. Root-specific production of betalains slightly relieved tyrosine consumption revealing the possible bottleneck in betalains production. Furthermore, a unique volcano-like phenotype in carrot taproot cross-section was created by vascular cambium-specific production of betalains. The betalains-fortified carrot in this study is thus anticipated to be used as functional vegetable and colorful carrot germplasm in breeding to promote health.
A Constrained Mean Curvature Flow and Alexandrov–Fenchel Inequalities
Authors: Mei Xinqun , Wang Guofang , Weng Liangjun
Published: February 2023

In this article, we study a locally constrained mean curvature flow for star-shaped hypersurfaces with capillary boundary in the half-space. We prove its long-time existence and the global convergence to a spherical cap. Furthermore, the capillary quermassintegrals defined in [29] evolve monotonically along the flow, and hence we establish a class of new Alexandrov–Fenchel inequalities for convex hypersurfaces with capillary boundary in the half-space.
Lost Daughters: Affective Framings of Women Embracing Islam
Authors: van den Brandt Nella
Published: February 2023

This article draws upon and contributes to current discussions in the study of conversion, Muslims in Europe, and gender and emotion by taking media productions as an ethnographic starting point for analyzing the subject position of women who converted to Islam. In contemporary Western European contexts, the phenomenon of conversion to Islam evokes various affective responses, including bewilderment, concern, and fear. This article assesses the frames through which female converts to Islam are represented in the media and particularly explores the existing focus on mother and daughter relationships. Based upon an analysis of the emotions named and generated, this article argues that such affective framings contribute to the shaping of the subject position of female converts to Islam. It moreover demonstrates that emotions such as concern, sadness, grief, and fear are the result of, as well as constructively infuse, contemporary debates on religious and cultural diversity in the Netherlands in which Islam and Muslims are considered to pose a “problem” for Europe.
Increase of PEth after Single Consumption of Alcohol and Evaluation of a Volumetric DBS Filter Paper Device
Authors: Stöth Frederike , Koch Kevin , Bantle Matthias , Pütz Philipp , Wortmann Felix , Weinmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2023

Direct alcohol biomarkers are of growing interest for the assessment of alcohol consumption, with particular interest in phosphatidylethanol (PEth) in recent years. PEth is only formed when alcohol is present in the body. However, there is no statement about how much the PEth concentration increases after single moderate alcohol consumption. This study was conducted to determine the increase in PEth concentrations after a single drinking event. Additionally, a new volumetric sampling device (volumetric dried blood spot cards (DBSV)) was evaluated, which was designed to simplify further sampling processes and to allow for easy self-sampling. Dried blood samples from 31 volunteers were collected before and after single alcohol consumption with a mean maximum breath alcohol concentration of 0.4 mg/L (range: 0.30–0.55 mg/L). PEth concentrations were determined after automated extraction by liquid chromatography--tandem mass spectrometry. PEth 16:0/18:1 and PEth 16:0/18:2 concentrations increased to an average of 45 ng/mL each in patients starting below 20 ng/mL (range: 25.0–57.0 ng/mL for PEth 16:0/18:1; range 26.8–62.3 ng/mL for PEth 16:0/18:2). PEth concentrations in patients starting above 20 ng/mL increased by a mean of 30 ng/mL (range: 6.2–71.3 ng/mL for PEth 16:0/18:1; range 8.8–65.3 ng/mL for PEth 16:0/18:2). In addition, the comparison of the new sampling device DBSV with a standard filter paper card (with volumetrically applied 20 µL of blood samples) yielded a close agreement for the determined PEth concentrations in 24 forensic samples and three external controls. Therefore, the sampling device DBSV proved to be suitable for the determination of PEth concentrations in blood.
Beyond Numbers: An Ambiguity–Accessibility–Applicability Framework to Explain the Attraction Effect
Authors: He Sharlene , Sternthal Brian
Published: February 2023

The attraction effect (AE) occurs when the addition of an inferior alternative (i.e., a decoy) to a choice set increases the choice share of the alternative to which it is most similar (i.e., a target), a phenomenon that violates the regularity principle. The AE occurs reliably when the attribute values are represented numerically, but not when the stimuli are perceptual. Such conceptual replication failures indicate a lack of clarity about the mechanisms that produce the AE. The present research develops a framework—the 3A framework—that specifies the distinct functions of ambiguity, accessibility, and applicability in the choice process. These factors, and their attendant mechanisms, explain when and why the AE emerges. They also specify conditions under which the AE is attenuated. Seven main experiments and four supplementary experiments examine when and why the AE emerges with perceptual stimuli, provide support for the 3A framework, and offer insights about how to produce the AE in choice contexts involving perceptual stimuli.
Exploring Influencing Factors of Anxiety Improvement Following Mindfulness-Based Music Therapy in Young Adults with Cancer
Authors: Knoerl Robert , Mazzola Emanuele , Woods Heather , Buchbinder Elizabeth , Frazier Lindsay , LaCasce Ann , Luskin Marlise R , Phillips Carolyn S , Thornton Katherine , Berry Donna L , Ligibel Jennifer
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this secondary analysis was to explore physiological, psychological, and situational influencing factors that may affect the impact of a mindfulness-music therapy intervention on anxiety severity in young adults receiving cancer treatment. Young adults receiving cancer treatment for ≥ eight weeks were recruited from adult and pediatric oncology outpatient centers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Participants were asked to attend up to four, in-person (offered virtually via Zoom video conference after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic) 45-min mindfulness-based music therapy sessions over twelve weeks with a board-certified music therapist. Participants completed questionnaires about anxiety, stress, and other cancer treatment-related outcomes before and after participating in the intervention. Changes in anxiety (i.e., PROMIS Anxiety 4a) over time were compared among baseline physiological (e.g., age or sex), psychological (e.g., stress), and situational influencing (i.e., intervention delivery format) factors using Wilcoxon-rank sum tests. Thirty-one of the 37 enrolled participants completed the baseline and post-intervention measures and were eligible for inclusion in the secondary analysis. Results revealed that higher baseline physical functioning (median change = −6.65), anxiety (median change=-5.65), fatigue (median change = −5.6), sleep disturbance (median change = −5.6), female sex (median change = −5.15), or virtual intervention delivery (median change = −4.65) were potential physiological, psychological, or situational influencing factors associated with anxiety improvement following mindfulness-based music therapy. Additional investigation into physiological, psychological, or situational influencing factors associated with anxiety response will help to tailor the design of future mindfulness-music therapy interventions to decrease psychological distress and address the unique psychosocial concerns among young adults receiving cancer treatment.

Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03709225
Atrioventricular groove patch plasty in an infant with pulmonary stenosis after arterial switch operation: a case report
Authors: Nishiori Hironobu , Hagino Ikuo , Koshiyama Hiroshi , Ito Takahiro , Kumae Masaru , Aoki Mitsuru
Published: February 2023

A 9-month-old infant developed pulmonary stenosis (PS) after an arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries, accompanied by a Shaher Type 4 coronary anatomy. As the right coronary artery (RCA) ran across the anterior side of the right ventricle (RV), atrioventricular (AV) groove patch plasty was performed to relieve PS. The distance between the RCA and tricuspid valve was confirmed by preoperative-computed tomography. The AV groove was carefully incised, ensuring the position of the tricuspid valve, and maintaining a distance of 3 mm from the tricuspid annulus to avoid approaching the RCA. While suturing the monocuspid valve patch, only the endocardial side of the RV was sutured, and RCA injury was prevented. Thus, especially in patients < 1 year of age, careful incision of the AV groove and suturing only the endocardial side is important to avoid injuring the RCA in AV groove patch plasty.
Ascorbic acid-mediated reactive oxygen species homeostasis modulates the switch from tapetal cell division to cell differentiation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wu Si-Yuan , Hou Ling-Li , Zhu Jun , Wang Yi-Chen , Zheng Yu-Ling , Hou Jian-Qiao , Yang Zhong-Nan , Lou Yue
Published: February 2023

The major antioxidant L-ascorbic acid (AsA) plays important roles in plant growth, development, and stress responses. However, the importance of AsA concentration and the regulation of AsA metabolism in plant reproduction remain unclear. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) anthers, the tapetum monolayer undergoes cell differentiation to support pollen development. Here, we report that a transcription factor, DEFECTIVE IN TAPETAL DEVELOPMENT AND FUNCTION 1 (TDF1), inhibits tapetal cell division leading to cell differentiation. We identified SKEWED5-SIMILAR 18 (SKS18) as a downstream target of TDF1. Enzymatic assays showed that SKS18, annotated as a multicopper oxidase-like protein, has ascorbate oxidase activity, leading to AsA oxidation. We also show that VITAMIN C DEFECTIVE1 (VTC1), an AsA biosynthetic enzyme, is negatively controlled by TDF1 to maintain proper AsA contents. Consistently, either knockout of SKS18 or VTC1 overexpression raised AsA concentrations, resulting in extra tapetal cells, while SKS18 overexpression in tdf1 or the vtc1-3 tdf1 double mutant mitigated their defective tapetum. We observed that high AsA concentrations caused lower accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in tapetal cells. Overexpression of ROS scavenging genes in tapetum restored excess cell divisions. Thus, our findings demonstrate that TDF1-regulated AsA balances cell division and cell differentiation in the tapetum through governing ROS homeostasis.
The Other Insiders: Personal Trading by Brokers, Analysts, and Fund Managers
Authors: Berkman Henk , Koch Paul , Westerholm P Joakim
Published: February 2023

When brokers, analysts, and fund managers buy or sell stocks for their own accounts, these “access employees” of financial institutions outperform retail investors over short windows up to a month. They earn particularly high abnormal returns when they trade before earnings announcements, revisions of analyst recommendations, and large stock price changes. We also find evidence consistent with profitable front-running and information leakage around the execution of corporate insider trades and block trades by mutual funds, as well as the release of revised recommendations by analysts who work at the same brokerage firm. (JEL G12, G14, G18)

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
A viscoelastic alginate-based hydrogel network coordinated with spermidine for periodontal ligament regeneration
Authors: Zhang Songbai , Jia Yuanbo , Liu Jingyi , Feng Fan , Wei Zhao , Zhang Min , Xu Feng
Published: February 2023

Periodontitis can cause irreversible defects in the periodontal ligament (PDL), the regeneration of which is the major obstacle to the clinical treatment of periodontitis. Implanting hydrogel for releasing anti-inflammatory drugs is a promising treatment to promote PDL regeneration. However, existing hydrogel systems fail to mimic the typical viscoelastic feature of native periodontium, which may have been shown as an important role in tissue regeneration. Meanwhile, the synergistic benefits of mechanical cues and biochemical agents for PDL regeneration remain elusive. In this study, we developed a bi-crosslinking viscoelastic hydrogel (Alg-PBA/Spd) by integrating phenylboronic acid-modified alginate with anti-inflammatory agent (spermidine) through borate ester and B–N coordination bonds, where spermidine will be released with the degradation of the hydrogel. Alg-PBA/Spd hydrogel is biocompatible, injectable and can quickly adapt to complex periodontal structures due to the dynamic crosslinking. We demonstrated in rat models that the viscoelastic Alg-PBA/Spd hydrogel significantly promotes the deposition of periodontal collagen and accelerates the repair of periodontal damage. Our results suggest that the viscoelastic Alg-PBA/Spd hydrogel would be a promising mechano-biochemically synergistic treatment for periodontal regeneration.
FACTORS INFLUENCING FLUOROSCOPY TIME IN ENDOVASCULAR TREATMENT OF ABDOMINAL ANEURYSMS: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Efthymiou Fotios O , Kakkos Stavros K , Metaxas Vasileios I , Dimitroukas Christos P , Moulakakis Konstantinos G , Papadoulas Spyros I , Kouri Natasa K , Tsimpoukis Andreas L , Nikolakopoulos Konstantinos M , Papageorgopoulou Chrysanthi P , Panayiotakis George S
Published: February 2023

Patients who undergo endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) may require prolonged radiation exposure affected by several factors. The objectives of this study were to document fluoroscopy time (FT) during EVAR and identify possible factors that influence it. A retrospective analysis of a 180 patients’ database with abdominal infrarenal aortic aneurysms submitted to EVAR during a 7-y period was performed. The FT is evaluated regarding risk factors and comorbidities, graft type and patient-related, clinical and technical parameters. FT’s median (interquartile range) was 1011 (698–1500) s. Excluder and C3 Excluder were associated with significantly lower FT values when compared with other grafts. Hypertension, dyslipidemia, age ≥ 70 y, maximum aneurysm diameter ≥ 6 cm and procedure duration ≥2 h resulted in higher FT values. A significantly lower FT was found for the operations performed in the 7th y of the study’s period compared with the previous 6 y, mainly because of the use of Excluder or C3 Excluder grafts. However, these grafts did not show any significant difference in FT values during the 7 y. A significant correlation between FT with age and procedure duration was found. Nevertheless, procedure duration is a poor FT predictor in linear and logistic regressions, although is significantly correlated with FT. Dyslipidemia, procedure duration and graft type are independent predictors of FT larger than the median, whereas only the procedure duration is a predictor for FT larger than the 75th percentile value. The identified factors regarding radiation protection issues should be considered when contemplating abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, however, without compromising the procedure’s efficacy. Further work is necessary to identify more potential anatomical, clinical and technical factors affecting procedures’ complexity and FT and patient radiation dose during EVAR interventions.
Annexin A1 induces oxaliplatin resistance of gastric cancer through autophagy by targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR
Authors: Ren Jun , Hu Zhiqing , Niu Gengming , Xia Jie , Wang Xing , Hong Runqi , Gu Jiawei , Wang Daorong , Ke Chongwei
Published: February 2023

Resistance to oxaliplatin (OXA) is a major cause of recurrence in gastric cancer (GC) patients. Autophagy is an important factor ensuring the survival of cancer cells under chemotherapeutic stress. We aimed to investigate the role of OXA‐related genes in autophagy and chemoresistance of gastric cancer cells. We established OXA‐resistant gastric cancer cells and used RNA‐seq to profile gene expression within OXA‐resistant GC and corresponding parental cells. Immunohistochemistry and RT‐qPCR was performed to detect gene expression in tissues of two cohorts of GC patients who received OXA‐based chemotherapy. The chemoresistant effects of the gene were assessed by cell viability, apoptosis, and autophagy assays. The effects of the gene on autophagy were assessed with mRFP‐GFP‐LC3 and Western blotting (WB). Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and WB were performed to detect the activity of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling under the regulation of the gene. The OXA‐resistant property of GC cells is related to their enhanced autophagic activity. Based on RNA‐seq profiling, ANXA1 was selected as a candidate, as it was upregulated significantly in OXA‐resistant cells. Furthermore, we found that higher ANXA1 expression before chemotherapy was associated with subsequent development of resistance to oxaliplatin, and overexpression of ANXA1 promoted the resistance of gastric cancer cells to oxaliplatin. So, it may serve as a key regulator in GC chemo‐resistance knockdown of ANXA1, via inhibiting autophagy, enhancing the sensitivity of OXA‐resistant GC cells to OXA in vitro and in vivo. Mechanically, we identified that PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway was activated in the ANXA1 stable knockdown AGS/OXA cells, which leads to the suppression of autophagy. ANXA1 functions as a chemoresistant gene in GC cells by targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and might be a prognostic predictor for GC patients who receive OXA‐based chemotherapy.
Transcriptome‐wide high‐throughput m6A sequencing of differential m6A methylation patterns in the decidual tissues from RSA patients
Authors: Luo Yong , Chen Jin , Cui Ying , Fang Fang , Zhang Ziyu , Hu Lili , Chen Xiaoyong , Li Zengming , Li Liping , Chen Lina
Published: February 2023

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is characterized by two or more consecutive pregnancy losses in the first trimester of pregnancy, experienced by 5% of women during their reproductive age. As a complex pathological process, the etiology of RSA remains poorly understood. Recent studies have established that gene expression changes dramatically in human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) during decidualization. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most prevalent epigenetic modification of mRNA in eukaryotic cells and it is closely related to the occurrence and development of many pathophysiological phenomena. In this study, we first confirmed that high levels of m6A mRNA methylation in decidual tissues are associated with RSA. Then, we used m6A‐modified RNA immunoprecipitation sequence (m6A‐seq) and RNA sequence (RNA‐seq) to identify the differentially expressed m6A methylation in decidual tissues from RSA patients and identified the key genes involved in abnormal decidualization by bioinformatics analysis. Using m6A‐seq, we identified a total of 2169 genes with differentially expressed m6A methylation, of which 735 m6A hypermethylated genes and 1434 m6A hypomethylated genes were identified. Further joint analysis of m6A‐seq and RNA‐seq revealed that 133 genes were m6A modified with mRNA expression. GO and KEGG analyses indicated that these unique genes were mainly enriched in environmental information processing pathways, including the cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction and PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway. In summary, this study uncovered the transcriptome‐wide m6A modification pattern in decidual tissue of RSA, which provides a theoretical basis for further research into m6A modification and new therapeutic strategies for RSA.
Heterogeneity of macrophages in atherosclerosis revealed by single‐cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Yu Liwen , Zhang Yujie , Liu Changhao , Wu Xiao , Wang Shasha , Sui Wenhai , Zhang Yun , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Meng
Published: February 2023

Technology at the single‐cell level has advanced dramatically in characterizing molecular heterogeneity. These technologies have enabled cell subtype diversity to be seen in all tissues, including atherosclerotic plaques. Critical in atherosclerosis pathogenesis and progression are macrophages. Previous studies have only determined macrophage phenotypes within the plaque, mainly by bulk analysis. However, recent progress in single‐cell technologies now enables the comprehensive mapping of macrophage subsets and phenotypes present in plaques. In this review, we have updated and discussed the definition and classification of macrophage subsets in mice and humans using single‐cell RNA sequencing. We summarized the different classification methods and perspectives: traditional classification with an updated scoring system, inflammatory macrophages, foamy macrophages, and atherosclerotic‐resident macrophages. In addition, some special types of macrophages were identified by specific markers, including IFN‐inducible and cavity macrophages. Furthermore, we discussed macrophage subset‐specific markers and their functions. In the future, these novel insights into the characteristics and phenotypes of these macrophage subsets within atherosclerotic plaques can provide additional therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases.
Acute hypoxia attenuates resistance exercise‐induced ribosome signaling but does not impact satellite cell pool expansion in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Horwath Oscar , Nordström Fabian , von Walden Ferdinand , Apró William , Moberg Marcus
Published: February 2023

Cumulative evidence supports the hypothesis that hypoxia acts as a regulator of muscle mass. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood, particularly in human muscle. Here we examined the effect of hypoxia on signaling pathways related to ribosome biogenesis and myogenic activity following an acute bout of resistance exercise. We also investigated whether hypoxia influenced the satellite cell response to resistance exercise. Employing a randomized, crossover design, eight men performed resistance exercise in normoxia (FiO2 21%) or normobaric hypoxia (FiO2 12%). Muscle biopsies were collected in a time‐course manner (before, 0, 90, 180 min and 24 h after exercise) and were analyzed with respect to cell signaling, gene expression and satellite cell content using immunoblotting, RT‐qPCR and immunofluorescence, respectively. In normoxia, resistance exercise increased the phosphorylation of RPS6, TIF‐1A and UBF above resting levels. Hypoxia reduced the phosphorylation of these targets by ~37%, ~43% and ~ 67% throughout the recovery period, respectively (p < .05 vs. normoxia). Resistance exercise also increased 45 S pre‐rRNA expression and mRNA expression of c‐Myc, Pol I and TAF‐1A above resting levels, but no differences were observed between conditions. Similarly, resistance exercise increased mRNA expression of myogenic regulatory factors throughout the recovery period and Pax7+ cells were elevated 24 h following exercise in mixed and type II muscle fibers, with no differences observed between normoxia and hypoxia. In conclusion, acute hypoxia attenuates ribosome signaling, but does not impact satellite cell pool expansion and myogenic gene expression following a bout of resistance exercise in human skeletal muscle.
Psychometric evaluation of the German Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging questionnaire using data from two intervention studies
Authors: Gabes Michaela , Donhauser Theresa , Harder Anastasia , Masur Clarissa , Apfelbacher Christian J.
Published: February 2023

Objective

We aimed to further validate the German version of the Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging (DIVA) questionnaire.

Methods

Data were collected in the context of two intervention studies. Forty-two women participated in clinical trial VMP-03/2018 (NCT04222647) and 79 women in clinical trial VFCrC-01/2021 (NCT05211505). Internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach α. Correlations with other outcome measures such as a subjective assessment of symptoms and dyspareunia, the Vaginal Health Index, and the Vaginal Maturation Index were calculated regarding construct validity. A priori hypotheses were formulated for construct validity. Responsiveness was assessed after 43 (±3) and after 38 (±1) days in the two clinical trials.

Results

Strong internal consistency in all of the DIVA domains was found (α ≥ 0.80). Regarding construct validity (at baseline and over time), many hypotheses were confirmed. Furthermore, all of the DIVA domains were able to detect changes over time (P ≤ 0.006). Moderate to strong effect sizes were found (≥0.460). The data supported the responsiveness of the DIVA.

Conclusions

Our findings from two independent intervention studies support internal consistency, construct validity, and responsiveness of the German version of the DIVA (domains).
Treating where it hurts—a randomized comparative trial of vestibule estradiol for postmenopausal dyspareunia
Authors: Goetsch Martha F. , Garg Bharti , Lillemon Jen , Clark Amanda L.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To compare efficacies of two strengths of estradiol cream applied to the vulvar vestibule and use of silicone lubricant to reduce intercourse pain scores in postmenopausal women with moderate/severe dyspareunia.

Methods

This pilot randomized comparative trial assigned 50 women to nightly applications of estradiol cream, 50 or 100 μg, for 12 weeks. We asked women to have lubricated penetration twice weekly, with intercourse or performing a tampon test. Pain, recorded in dairies, was rated using the 0-10 Numerical Rating Scale. We assessed biopsychosocial outcomes, urinary symptoms, and measured serum estradiol levels and endometrial stripe thicknesses. We performed physical examinations to determine tenderness levels of the vestibule, vagina, pelvic floor muscles, bladder, uterus, and adnexa. Comparisons were made using two-sample t test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, or χ
2/Fisher's exact test.

Results

Forty-seven women (94%), with a mean age of 59.7 years, completed the trial. The baseline median intercourse pain score was 8/10 (interquartile range, 6, 8). After 12 weeks, we measured no statistically significant difference between groups in the primary outcome, intercourse pain score, or any secondary outcome measure. For both groups together, the median intercourse pain score diminished by 50% after 4 weeks and 75% after 12 weeks (P < 0.001). The most tender anatomic area, the vulvar vestibule, improved by 82% to 100% (P < 0.001) with therapy. We did not measure a statistically significant difference in serum estradiol levels or endometrial stripe thickness between groups.

Conclusion

Estradiol cream applied to the vulvar vestibule, paired with precoital silicone lubricant, is a promising alternative to vaginal therapy for dyspareunia.
Natural history and malignant potential of simple ovarian cysts in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Ya-Na , Tan Xin , Xiong Wei , Dong Xue , Liu Jie , Wang Zhi-Lin , Chen Heng-Xi
Published: February 2023

Importance

Postmenopausal ovarian masses are not uncommon, and the incidence of ovarian cancer rises sharply after menopause.

Objective

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the natural history and malignant potential of postmenopausal simple ovarian cysts.

Evidence Review

PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), ClinicalTrials.gov, and ISRCTN (International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Register) were searched from inception to January 31, 2022. Meta-analyses were conducted using R software.

Findings

Twelve cohort studies with 1,672 participants and 1,513 ovarian cysts were included. The rates of simple cysts remaining unchanged (38.90%; 95% CI, 19.79%-59.85%; P < 0.01) or disappearing (34.17%; 95% CI, 19.13%-50.93%; P < 0.01) were the highest during conservative observation. The surgery rate for the simple cyst was 19.04% (95% CI, 8.19%-32.92%; P < 0.01). The malignancy rate (including borderline tumors) was very low, approximately 1/10,000 (95% CI, 0% to 0.23%; P = 0.79).

Conclusions

Simple ovarian cysts in postmenopausal women were most likely to remain unchanged or disappear during follow-up. The malignancy rate was approximately 1 in 10,000. Personal preference is the most common reason for surgery.
Fear of COVID-19 Among Japanese Workers and Exacerbation of Chronic Pain
Authors: Yoshida Tamami , Koyama Teruhide , Ishimaru Tomohiro , Minoura Akira , Mutoh Michihiro , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: February 2023

Objective

To evaluate the association between fear of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and exacerbated chronic pain among workers during the pandemic, as well as productivity loss.

Methods

We collected data using Internet-based self-reported questionnaires, on fear of COVID-19, work productivity status, exacerbation of chronic pain during the pandemic, and several confounding factors.

Results

The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a high level of fear of COVID-19 was associated with an increased exacerbation of chronic pain (adjusted odds ratio, 2.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.21–4.44). Meanwhile, the presence of fear of COVID-19 and exacerbated chronic pain were associated with productivity impairment (adjusted odds ratio, 2.03; 95% confidence interval, 1.44–2.85).

Conclusions

Our study shows that workers' fear of COVID-19 is correlated with exacerbated chronic pain and risk of presenteeism.
Occupational Years of Service and Leukocyte Epigenetic Aging
Authors: Nwanaji-Enwerem Jamaji C. , Cardenas Andres , Goodrich Jaclyn M. , Furlong Melissa A. , Jung Alesia M. , Collender Philip A. , Caban-Martinez Alberto J. , Grant Casey , Beitel Shawn C. , Littau Sally , Urwin Derek J. , Gabriel Jamie J. , Hughes Jeff , Gulotta John , Wallentine Darin , Burgess Jefferey L.
Published: February 2023

Objective

The aim of the study is to examine associations between years of firefighting service and eight chronological age-adjusted measures of blood leukocyte epigenetic age acceleration: Horvath, Hannum, SkinBloodClock, Intrinsic, Extrinsic, PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DNAm telomere length.

Methods

The study used a repeated measures analysis of data from 379 incumbent firefighters from eight career departments and 100 recruit firefighters from two of the departments, across the United States.

Results

Incumbent firefighters had on average greater epigenetic age acceleration compared with recruit firefighters, potentially due to the cumulative effect of occupational exposures. However, among incumbent firefighters, additional years of service were associated with epigenetic age deceleration, particularly for GrimAge, a strong predictor of mortality.

Conclusions

Long-term studies with more specific occupational exposure classification are needed to better understand the relationship between years of service and aging biomarkers.
Methods for Replicating a Skater-Style Shoe Lift for People with Limb-Length Discrepancy: A Technical Note
Authors: Dutton Haley L. , Kearns Nathan , Spragg Rebecca
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The objective of this study was to reproduce a skater-style shoe lift.

Methods

Tracings and measurements taken from the previous skater shoe lift were used to make a reproduction of a new skater shoe lift.

Results

A successful reproduction of the skater sole lift was completed.

Clinical Relevance

This is clinically relevant due to allowing patients an additional option for large leg-length discrepancies to avoid surgery while still providing a strong, stable base and reducing overall weight.
Evaluation of the Effect of Knee Unloader Orthoses, Lateral Wedge Insoles, and Ankle Foot Orthoses on Pain, Function, and Knee Adduction Moment in Subjects with Medial Compartment Knee Osteoarthritis: A Literature Review
Authors: Mahmoodi Maede , Arazpour Mokhtar , Mousavi Mohammad Ebrahim
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a destructive joint disease and a major cause of pain in the elderly. The use of supportive orthoses including valgus knee brace, lateral wedged insole, and ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a common treatment for these people. The purpose of this review of the literature is to evaluate the effect of orthoses on pain, function, and adduction moment (AM) of individuals with medial knee OA.

Method

The search was conducted among articles published from 2010 to 2021 in bibliographic online databases including ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The potential titles and abstracts were reviewed based on the study inclusion criteria. All randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies on the effectiveness of valgus knee brace, AFO, and lateral wedged insoles in subjects with medial knee OA were reviewed. The search terms were OA, medial knee osteoarthritis, medial joint arthritis, unloader knee brace, valgus knee brace, knee sleeve, lateral wedge insole, AFO, ankle-foot orthosis, function, pain, alignment, kinetic, kinematic, and AM.

Result

Forty-two articles were reviewed to determine the current research process. Thirteen studies evaluated the effect of lateral wedge insole on pain, function, and AM in subjects with medial compartment knee OA. Ten studies evaluated unloader knee braces. Nine studies evaluated unloader knee brace compared with lateral wedge insole, three studies evaluated AFO, and seven studies examined the combination of knee braces and lateral wedge insoles on pain, function, and AM.

Conclusion

All three orthoses in short-term follow-up reduced the AM in subjects with medial knee OA. Lateral wedge insoles did not support pain reduction in studies. The results of this study showed that knee braces may have a more lasting effect on the knee joint in the long run than lateral wedge insoles. Although the number of studies that evaluated the effect of AFOs on outcomes of subjects with knee OA is low, this intervention was found to be effective in relieving pain and reducing AM.

Clinical Relevance

In clinical studies, clinical relevance in patients with medial knee OA, orthoses effectively reduced external knee AM and pain sensation during daily activities. Thus, use of orthoses effectively supports conservative treatment in medial knee OA.