bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rbm46, a novel germ cell-specific factor, modulates meiotic progression and spermatogenesis
Authors: Dai Xiangyan , Cheng Xinkai , Huang Jianfei , Gao Yanping , Wang Deshou , Feng Zhi , Zhai Gang , Lou Qiyong , He Jiangyan , Wang Zhijian , Yin Zhan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
It has been suggested that many novel RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are required for gametogenesis, but the necessity of few of these proteins has been functionally verified. Here, we identified one RBP, Rbm46, and investigated its expression pattern and role in zebrafish reproduction. We found that rbm46 is maternally provided and specifically expressed in the germ cells of gonadal tissues using in situ hybridization, reverse transcription-PCR, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Two independent rbm46 mutant zebrafish lines were generated via the transcription activator-like effector nuclease technique. Specific disruption of rbm46 resulted in masculinization and infertility in the mutants. Although the spermatogonia appeared grossly normal in the mutants, spermatogenesis was impaired, and meiosis events were not observed. The introduction of a tp53M214K mutation could not rescue the female-to-male sex-reversal phenotype, indicating that rbm46 acts independently of the p53-dependent apoptotic pathway. RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR subsequently indicated that Rbm46 might be involved in the posttranscriptional regulation of functional genes essential for germ cell development, such as nanos3, dazl, and sycp3, during gametogenesis. Together, our results reveal for the first time the crucial role of rbm46 in regulating germ cell development in vivo through promotion of germ cell progression through meiosis prophase I.
Connecting Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches in Environmental Observing
Authors: Eicken Hajo , Danielsen Finn , Sam Josephine-Mary , Fidel Maryann , Johnson Noor , Poulsen Michael K , Lee Olivia A , Spellman Katie V , Iversen Lisbeth , Pulsifer Peter , Enghoff Martin 
Published: February 2021

AbstractEffective responses to rapid environmental change rely on observations to inform planning and decision-making. Reviewing literature from 124 programs across the globe and analyzing survey data for 30 Arctic community-based monitoring programs, we compare top-down, large-scale program driven approaches with bottom-up approaches initiated and steered at the community level. Connecting these two approaches and linking to Indigenous and local knowledge yields benefits including improved information products and enhanced observing program efficiency and sustainability. We identify core principles central to such improved links: matching observing program aims, scales, and ability to act on information; matching observing program and community priorities; fostering compatibility in observing methodology and data management; respect of Indigenous intellectual property rights and the implementation of free, prior, and informed consent; creating sufficient organizational support structures; and ensuring sustained community members’ commitment. Interventions to overcome challenges in adhering to these principles are discussed.
Towards a Critical Pedagogy of Atmosphere in Social Work Education: Using Counter-Mapping to Examine the Emplaced Power Relations of Practice
Authors: Gutiérrez-Ujaque Daniel , Jeyasingham Dharman 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In recent years, neoliberal government policies relating to higher education have diminished universities as spaces of learning and encounter with difference. This article discusses a teaching project that occurred on social work qualifying programmes in two universities in Britain and Spain. The project aimed to produce new opportunities for students to encounter and critically reflect on how power relations are produced and maintained in social work practice, by engaging students in mapping the atmospheres of stigmatised urban spaces. Students used counter-mapping techniques, which aim to make visible power relations and inequalities, in order to critically reflect on their experiences of and practices in such spaces. The article evaluates data in the form of students’ cartographies and narratives, and educators’ photographs and reflections on teaching, arguing for the benefits of moving teaching outside of the classroom and engaging with the material, sensed realities of places where social workers work. The article builds on recent conceptualisations of atmosphere and space in social work literature, contributes to discussions of critical reflection and critical pedagogy in social work and provides examples of the use of counter-mapping as a pedagogical tool in higher education contexts.
Prolotherapy for chronic low back pain: a review of literature
Authors: Giordano Lorenzo , Murrell William D , Maffulli Nicola 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Introduction
Low back pain is common and imposes major societal burdens for patient suffering and costs. Prolotherapy injections are used for musculoskeletal conditions including tendinopathies, osteoarthritis and low back pain to enhance soft-tissue healing. This review aims to clarify the place of prolotherapy in chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Sources of data
Using multiple databases, a systematic search was performed to identify studies detailing the use of prolotherapy to manage CLBP. A total of 12 articles was included in the present work.

Areas of agreement
Considering the level of evidence and the quality of the studies assessed using the modified Coleman Score, prolotherapy is an effective management modality for CLBP patients in whom conservative therapies failed.

Areas of controversy
The presence of co-interventions and the clinical heterogeneity of the work contributes to confound the overall conclusions.

Growing points and areas for research
The analysis of the studies included in the review, using appropriate tools, showed how their quality has decreased over the years, reflecting the need for appropriately powered well planned and performed randomized control trials.
Prevalence and severity of neurovascular compression in hemifacial spasm patients
Authors: Traylor Katie S , Sekula Raymond F , Eubanks Komal , Muthiah Nallammai , Chang Yue-Fang , Hughes Marion A 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Hemifacial spasm is typically caused by vascular compression of the proximal intracranial facial nerve. Although the prevalence of neurovascular compression has been investigated in a cohort of patients with classical trigeminal neuralgia, the prevalence and severity of neurovascular compression has not been well characterized in patients with hemifacial spasm. We aimed to investigate whether presence and severity of neurovascular compression are correlated to the symptomatic side in patients with hemifacial spasm. All patients in our study were evaluated by a physician who specializes in the management of cranial nerve disorders. Once hemifacial spasm was diagnosed on physical exam, the patient underwent a dedicated cranial nerve protocol magnetic resonance imaging study on a 3 T scanner. Exams were retrospectively reviewed by a neuroradiologist blinded to the symptomatic side. The presence, severity, vessel type, and location of neurovascular compression along the facial nerve was recorded. Neurovascular compression was graded as contact alone (vessel touching the facial nerve) versus deformity (indentation or deviation of the nerve by the culprit vessel). A total of 330 patients with hemifacial spasm were included. The majority (232) were female while the minority (98) were male. The average age was 55.7 years. Neurovascular compression (arterial) was identified on both the symptomatic (97.88%) and asymptomatic sides (38.79%) frequently. Neurovascular compression from an artery along the susceptible/proximal portion of the nerve was much more common on the symptomatic side (96.36%) than on the asymptomatic side (12.73%), odds ratio = 93.00, P &lt; 0.0001. When we assessed severity of arterial compression, the more severe form of neurovascular compression, deformity, was noted on the symptomatic side (70.3%) much more frequently than on the asymptomatic side (1.82%) (odds ratio = 114.00 P &lt; 0.0001). We conclude that neurovascular compression that results in deformity of the susceptible portion of the facial nerve is highly associated with the symptomatic side in hemifacial spasm.
Understanding Drivers of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Blacks
Authors: Momplaisir Florence , Haynes Norrisa , Nkwihoreze Hervette , Nelson Maria , Werner Rachel M , Jemmott John 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disproportionately affected communities of color, with black persons experiencing the highest rates of disease severity and mortality. A vaccine against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has the potential to reduce the race mortality gap from COVID-19; however, hesitancy toward the vaccine in the black community threatens vaccine uptake.

Methods
We conducted focus groups with black barbershop and salon owners living in zip codes of elevated COVID-19 prevalence to assess their attitudes, beliefs, and norms around a COVID-19 vaccine. We used a modified grounded theory approach to analyze the transcripts.

Results
We completed 4 focus groups (N = 24 participants) in July and August 2020. Participants were an average age of 46 years, and 89% were black non-Hispanic. Hesitancy against the COVID-19 vaccine was high due to mistrust in the medical establishment, concerns with the accelerated timeline for vaccine development, limited data on short- and long-term side effects, and the political environment promoting racial injustice. Some participants were willing to consider the vaccine once the safety profile is robust and reassuring. Receiving a recommendation to take the vaccine from a trusted healthcare provider served as a facilitator. Health beliefs identified were similar to concerns around other vaccines and included the fear of getting the infection with vaccination and preferring to improve one’s baseline physical health through alternative therapies.

Conclusions
We found that hesitancy of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine was high; however, provider recommendation and transparency around the safety profile might help reduce this hesitancy.
Impact of nutritional vitamin D supplementation on parathyroid hormone and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in non-dialysis chronic kidney disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Bover Jordi , Gunnarsson Joel , Csomor Philipp , Kaiser Edelgard , Cianciolo Giuseppe , Lauppe Rosa 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is a common and major complication in chronic kidney disease (CKD), reflecting the increase of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in response to reduced vitamin D signalling and hypocalcaemia. This meta-analysis evaluated the impact of nutritional vitamin D (NVD) (cholecalciferol or ergocalciferol) on SHPT-related biomarkers.

Methods
A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed to identify relevant randomized control trials to be included in the meta-analysis. Fixed- and random-effects models were used to pool study-level results. Effects were studied within NVD study arms and relative to control groups (placebo/no treatment); the former in order to identify the effect of actively altering biomarkers levels.

Results
Reductions in PTH from supplementation with NVD were small when observed within the NVD study arms (pooled reduction: 10.5 pg/mL) and larger when compared with placebo/no treatment (pooled reduction: 49.7 pg/mL). NVD supplementation increased levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in both analyses (increase within NVD study arm: 20.6 ng/mL, increase versus placebo/no treatment: 26.9 ng/mL). While small and statistically non-significant changes in phosphate and fibroblast growth factor 23 were observed, NVD supplementation caused calcium levels to increase when compared with placebo/no treatment (increase: 0.23 mg/dL).

Conclusions
Our results suggest that supplementation with NVD can be used to increase 25(OH)D to a certain extent, while the potential of NVD to actively reduce PTH in non-dialysis-CKD patients with SHPT is limited.
TREM-1+ Macrophages Define a Pathogenic Cell Subset in the Intestine of Crohn’s Disease Patients
Authors: Caër Charles , Gorreja Frida , Forsskåhl Sophia K , Brynjolfsson Siggeir F , Szeponik Louis , Magnusson Maria K , Börjesson Lars G , Block Mattias , Bexe-Lindskog Elinor , Wick Mary Jo 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background and Aims
Uncontrolled activation of intestinal mononuclear phagocytes [MNPs] drives chronic inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 [TREM-1] has been implicated in the pathogenesis of IBD. However, the role of TREM-1+ cell subsets in driving IBD pathology and the link with clinical parameters are not understood. We investigated TREM-1 expression in human intestinal MNP subsets and examined blocking TREM-1 as a potential IBD therapy.

Methods
TREM-1 gene expression was analysed in intestinal mucosa, enriched epithelial and lamina propria [LP] layers, and purified cells from controls and IBD patients. TREM-1 protein on immune cells was assessed by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy. Blood monocyte activation was examined by large-scale gene expression using a TREM-1 agonist or LP conditioned media [LP-CM] from patients in the presence or absence of TREM-1 and tumour necrosis factor [TNF] antagonist antibodies.

Results
TREM-1 gene expression increases in intestinal mucosa from IBD patients and correlates with disease score. TREM-1+ cells, which are mainly immature macrophages and CD11b+ granulocytes, increase among LP cells from Crohn’s disease patients and their frequency correlates with inflammatory molecules in LP-CM. LP-CM from Crohn’s disease patients induces an inflammatory transcriptome in blood monocytes, including increased IL-6 expression, which is reduced by simultaneous blocking of TREM-1 and TNF.

Conclusions
High intestinal TREM-1 expression, reflecting a high frequency of TREM-1+ immature macrophages and TREM-1+CD11b+ granulocytes, is linked to the deleterious inflammatory microenvironment in IBD patients. Therefore, blocking the TREM-1 pathway, especially simultaneously with anti-TNF therapy, has potential as a new IBD therapy.
Prevalence and extent of mitral annular disjunction in structurally normal hearts: comprehensive 3D analysis using cardiac computed tomography
Authors: Toh Hiroyuki , Mori Shumpei , Izawa Yu , Fujita Hiroshi , Miwa Keisuke , Suzuki Masataka , Takahashi Yu , Toba Takayoshi , Watanabe Yoshiaki , Kono Atsushi K , Tretter Justin T , Hirata Ken-Ichi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Aims
Mitral annular disjunction is fibrous separation between the attachment of the posterior mitral leaflet and the basal left ventricular myocardium initially described in dissected hearts. Currently, it is commonly evaluated by echocardiography, and potential relationships with mitral valve prolapse and ventricular arrhythmia have been suggested. However, controversy remains as its prevalence and extent have not been fully elucidated in normal living subjects.

Methods and results
Systolic datasets of cardiac computed tomography obtained from 98 patients (mean age, 69.1 ± 12.6 years; 81% men) with structurally normal hearts were assessed retrospectively. Circumferential extent of both mitral leaflets and disjunction was determined by rotating orthogonal multiplanar reconstruction images around the central axis of the mitral valvar orifice. Distribution angle within the circumference of the mitral valvar attachment and maximal height of disjunction were quantified. In total, 96.0% of patients demonstrated disjunction. Average distribution angles of the anterior and posterior mitral leaflets were 91.3 ± 9.4° and 269.8 ± 9.7°, respectively. Average distribution angle of the disjunction was 105.1 ± 49.2°, corresponding to 39.0 ± 18.2% of the entire posterior mitral valvar attachment. Median value of the maximal height of disjunction was 3.0 (1.5–7.0) mm. Distribution prevalence map of the disjunction revealed characteristic double peaks, with frequent sites of the disjunction located at the anterior to antero-lateral and inferior to infero-septal regions.

Conclusion
Mitral annular disjunction is a rather common finding in the normal adult heart with bimodal distribution predominantly observed involving the P1 and P3 scallops of the posterior mitral leaflet.
Soft tissue evaluation of functional therapy in growing patients with Class II malocclusion: a long-term study
Authors: Gazzani Francesca , Franchi Lorenzo , Lione Roberta , Cozza Paola , Pavoni Chiara 
Published: February 2021

Summary

Objective
The objective of this study was to analyse the soft tissue changes produced by the functional treatment of mandibular advancement in growing Class II patients.

Materials
The treated group consisted of 25 Caucasian patients (12 females and 13 males) with dento-skeletal Class II malocclusion treated with functional therapy (Activator). All patients were evaluated before treatment (T1; mean age, 9.9 years), at the end of functional treatment phase (T2; mean age, 11.9 years), and at a post-pubertal follow-up observation (T3; mean age, 18.5 years). The treated group was compared with a matched control group of 25 untreated subjects (13 females, 12 males) with untreated Class II division 1 malocclusion. Statistical comparisons between the two groups were performed with independent samples t-tests (P &lt; 0.05).

Results
Significant improvements were found during the long-term interval for mandibular sulcus (9.9°) and the profile facial angle (9.8°) in the treated group. No significant effects were found in terms of lower face percentage between the two groups.

Conclusion
Removable functional appliances induced positive effects on the soft tissue profile in Class II growing subjects with good stability in the long-term.
Global, regional, and national burden of aortic aneurysm, 1990–2017: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017
Authors: Tyrovolas Stefanos , Tyrovola Dimitra , Giné-Vázquez Iago , Koyanagi Ai , Bernabe-Ortiz Antonio , Rodriguez-Artalejo Fernando , Haro Josep Maria , Pan William K , Miranda J Jaime , Panagiotakos Demosthenes 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Aims
This study aimed at evaluating the age, sex, and country-income patterns in aortic aneurysm disease burden, analysing trends in mortality and years of life lost (YLLs), as well as their causal drivers and risk factors, using the 2017 Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD 2017).

Methods and results
We described the temporal, global, and regional (195 countries) patterns of aortic aneurysm (thoracic and abdominal) mortality, YLLs, their drivers [sociodemographic index (SDI), healthcare access and quality index (HAQ index)] and risk factors using the GBD 1990–2017. Correlation and mixed multilevel modelling between aortic aneurysm mortality, YLLs, HAQ index and other variables were applied. From 1990 to 2017, a global declining trend in age-standardized aortic aneurysm mortality was found [2.88 deaths/100 000 (95% uncertainty intervals, UI 2.79 to 3.03) in 1990 and 2.19 deaths/100 000 (95% UI 2.09 to 2.28) in 2017]. Among high-income countries (HICs) a consistent declining Spearman’s correlation between age-standardised aortic aneurysm mortality, SDI (HICs; 1990 rho: 0.57, P ≤ 0.001; 2017 rho: 0.41, P = 0.001) and HAQ index was observed (HICs; 1990 rho: 0.50, P &lt;0.001; 2016 rho: 0.35, P = 0.006); in comparison with low- and middle-income countries where correlation trends were weak and mixed. At a global level, higher HAQ index was related with lower aortic aneurysm mortality and YLLs [mortality, coef: −0.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.06, −0.04; YLLs, coef: −0.94, 95% CI: −1.17, −0.71].

Conclusions
Age-standardized aortic aneurysm mortality declined globally between 1990 and 2017. Globally, age-standardized aortic aneurysm mortality and YLLs were related to changes in SDI and HAQ index levels, while country-level income-related variations were also observed.
Women’s Health Initiative Strong and Healthy Pragmatic Physical Activity Intervention Trial for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: Design and Baseline Characteristics
Authors: Stefanick Marcia L , King Abby C , Mackey Sally , Tinker Lesley F , Hlatky Mark A , LaMonte Michael J , Bellettiere John , Larson Joseph C , Anderson Garnet , Kooperberg Charles L , LaCroix Andrea Z 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
National guidelines promote physical activity to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD), yet no randomized controlled trial has tested whether physical activity reduces CVD.

Methods
The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Strong and Healthy (WHISH) pragmatic trial used a randomized consent design to assign women for whom cardiovascular outcomes were available through WHI data collection (N = 18 985) or linkage to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (N30 346), to a physical activity intervention or “usual activity” comparison, stratified by ages 68–99 years (in tertiles), U.S. geographic region, and outcomes data source. Women assigned to the intervention could “opt out” after receiving initial physical activity materials. Intervention materials applied evidence-based behavioral science principles to promote current national recommendations for older Americans. The intervention was adapted to participant input regarding preferences, resources, barriers, and motivational drivers and was targeted for 3 categories of women at lower, middle, or higher levels of self-reported physical functioning and physical activity. Physical activity was assessed in both arms through annual questionnaires. The primary outcome is major cardiovascular events, specifically myocardial infarction, stroke, or CVD death; primary safety outcomes are hip fracture and non-CVD death. The trial is monitored annually by an independent Data Safety and Monitoring Board. Final analyses will be based on intention to treat in all randomized participants, regardless of intervention engagement.

Results
The 49 331 randomized participants had a mean baseline age of 79.7 years; 84.3% were White, 9.2% Black, 3.3% Hispanic, 1.9% Asian/Pacific Islander, 0.3% Native American, and 1% were of unknown race/ethnicity. The mean baseline RAND-36 physical function score was 71.6 (± 25.2 SD). There were no differences between Intervention (N = 24 657) and Control (N = 24 674) at baseline for age, race/ethnicity, current smoking (2.5%), use of blood pressure or lipid-lowering medications, body mass index, physical function, physical activity, or prior CVD (10.1%).

Conclusion
The WHISH trial is rigorously testing whether a physical activity intervention reduces major CV events in a large, diverse cohort of older women.
Clinical Trials Registration Number: NCT02425345
The COVID-19 Pandemic, Biogerontology, and the Ageing of Humanity
Authors: Farrelly Colin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The World Health Organization designated the decade 2020–2030 as the “decade of healthy ageing.” It is a tragic irony that the year 2020 should begin with a pandemic that is so lethal for older persons. Not only are older persons the most vulnerable to COVID-19 mortality, but many of the mitigation efforts to slow the spread of the virus have imposed yet further emotional and mental health burdens on the most vulnerable among those older than 70 years. To help prevent future infectious disease mortality and suffering, as well as the profound health burdens from the chronic diseases associated with ageing, insights from biogerontology must become an integral part of global public health priorities. The timing is ripe for making the public health aspiration of developing an applied gerontological intervention a reality.