bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PTN from Leydig cells activates SDC2 and modulates human spermatogonial stem cell proliferation and survival via GFRA1
Authors: Zhao Xueheng , Liu Lvjun , Huang Zenghui , Zhu Fang , Zhang Huan , Zhou Dai 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Background
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for the maintenance and initiation of male spermatogenesis. Despite the advances in understanding SSC biology in mouse models, the mechanisms underlying human SSC development remain elusive.

Results
Here, we analyzed the signaling pathways involved in SSC regulation by testicular somatic cells using single-cell sequencing data (GEO datasets: GSE149512 and GSE112013) and identified that Leydig cells communicate with SSCs through pleiotrophin (PTN) and its receptor syndecan-2 (SDC2). Immunofluorescence, STRING prediction, and protein immunoprecipitation assays confirmed the interaction between PTN and SDC2 in spermatogonia, but their co-localization was observed only in approximately 50% of the cells. The knockdown of SDC2 in human SSC lines impaired cell proliferation, DNA synthesis, and the expression of PLZF, a key marker for SSC self-renewal. Transcriptome analysis revealed that SDC2 knockdown downregulated the expression of GFRA1, a crucial factor for SSC proliferation and self-renewal, and inhibited the HIF-1 signaling pathway. Exogenous PTN rescued the proliferation and GFRA1 expression in SDC2 knockdown SSC lines. In addition, we found downregulation of PTN and SDC2 as well as altered localization in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients, suggesting that downregulation of PTN and SDC2 may be associated with impaired spermatogenesis.

Conclusions
Our results uncover a novel mechanism of human SSC regulation by the testicular microenvironment and suggest a potential therapeutic target for male infertility.
Analysis of moderate and severe traumatic brain injury associated with skull base fracture: a local tertiary center experience
Authors: Saad Mahmoud , Mowafy Ali A. , Naser Ahmed M. , Ismail Abdelaziz Abdalhamid , Zaher Ahmed , Serag Samer , Serag Ibrahim , Shahein Mostafa 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Background
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major medical and social concern in developing countries. TBI-related morbidity and mortality statistics in Egypt are lacking and do not reflect the actual magnitude of the problem.

Objectives
To overview the incidence of moderate and severe head trauma in a heavily populated developing country and document the outcome of moderate and severe TBI associated with skull base fracture (SBF).

Methodology
Data of patients admitted to our center with moderate and severe TBI associated with skull base fracture (SBF) were reviewed in the period between January 2019 and March 2023.

Results
The most common type of trauma was road traffic accidents in 54.2% of the patients; 91.2% had Single SBF (middle cranial fossa fracture was predominant 58.5%). 25.5% had an initial GCS of ≤ 8. Periorbital ecchymosis was the most common presenting sign in 36.3%. The most frequent complication (37.3%) was pneumocephalus. The presence of skull base fracture inversely affected the Glasgow outcome scale extended GOSE (P = 0.001, r = 0.674). Higher initial GCS scores were positively correlated with good GOSE (GOSE) (P = 0.001, r =− 0.222).

Conclusions
RTA represents a significant cause for moderate and severe TBI in young male population. SBF is associated with poor outcome in moderate and severe TBI. Higher initial GCS score was positively correlated with good GOSE. It is important to have an overview of different types of TBI in Egypt.
Excimer laser coronary angioplasty: a mini-narrative review of clinical outcomes
Authors: Olatunji Gbolahan , Kokori Emmanuel , Aboje John , Mohammed Saad , Asifat Olamide , Isarinade David Timilehin , Yusuf Ismaila Ajayi , Olawade David B. , Aderinto Nicholas 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundExcimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA) has evolved as a pivotal element in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), significantly influencing procedural efficacy and safety. This mini-narrative review explores ELCA's applications, focusing on its efficacy and clinical outcomes.BodyA search of major databases identified studies from ELCA's inception. Inclusion criteria encompassed diverse study designs exploring ELCA in coronary interventions, with rigorous data extraction ensuring accuracy and completeness. A narrative synthesis presented key findings across studies. ELCA demonstrated promising outcomes compared to traditional PCI and stent placement. Reduced reperfusion time, enhanced microcirculation, and lower postoperative major adverse cardiac events (MACE) rates highlighted its efficacy. Improved vascular and lumen dynamics, plaque modification, and successful treatment of complex lesions showcased its versatility. Quality of life enhancements positively impacted long-term recovery, particularly in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) cases. ELCA's success in challenging scenarios and its role in refining in-stent restenosis (ISR) treatment indicated broader applications. Despite limitations in some studies, ELCA presented a favorable safety profile.ConclusionThe review underscores ELCA's dynamic role in coronary interventions, offering a promising tool for enhancing procedural outcomes. Clinical implications include improved reperfusion, adaptability in complex lesions, and potential long-term benefits for ACS patients. While integration into routine practice requires careful consideration, ELCA's positive outcomes encourage further exploration and innovation in interventional cardiology.
Risk of Venous Thromboembolism After Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Results from a National Cohort
Authors: Fowler Cosmo , Chawla Simar , Chism Lauren , Pastores Stephen M. , Auckley Dennis H 
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition associated with many comorbidities. However, establishing the independent impact of OSA on specific health outcomes can be challenging without access to a substantial patient cohort. This study aimed to investigate whether a diagnosis of OSA was independently associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS:
In this retrospective cohort study, we interrogated the TriNetX Analytics Research Network, a large database comprising the billing claims and electronic health record-derived data of >117 million patients. Using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes, we identified US adult patients who underwent TKA between January 1, 2013 and January 1, 2023, with and without preexisting OSA (and ≥2 OSA occurrences overall). We then analyzed the 1-month postoperative incidence of VTE as a composite outcome of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) incidence, as well as cerebrovascular accident (CVA), myocardial infarction (MI), and DVT and PE individually. Baseline demographic and comorbidity covariates were incorporated into a 1:1 propensity score-matched analysis to clarify the independent effect of OSA.

RESULTS:
During the 10-year study period, a total of 197,460 patients underwent TKA. Of these, 27,976 met the criteria for inclusion in the OSA cohort, while 150,830 had no documented history of OSA. In the initial analysis, OSA was significantly associated with the primary outcome (DVT/PE) as well as all secondary outcomes (CVA, MI, and individually with DVT and PE) at 1 month postsurgery. After generating propensity score matched cohorts, DVT/PE remained significantly associated with OSA, with an absolute risk difference of 0.7% (odds ratio [OR], 1.19, confidence interval [CI], 1.1–1.3, P < .001), as were the secondary outcomes of DVT (OR, 1.11, CI, 1.0–1.2, P = .030) and PE (OR, 1.41, CI, 1.2–1.6, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:
In this study encompassing a nationally representative sample of TKA patients, OSA was associated with increased incidence of VTE at 1 month postoperatively, an association that persisted after the generation of matched cohorts. While limitations related to the lack of patient-level data, disease severity, and therapy adherence should be acknowledged, our large sample size enabled us to factor many baseline characteristics into our analysis, reinforcing the association of these findings. Prospective work is needed on the impact of modulating factors such as anticoagulation regimen and positive airway pressure therapy on these outcomes.
Human developmental biology – a global perspective
Authors: Clark Amander T. , Goolam Mubeen , Hanna Jacob H. , Long Katie , Nicol Dianne , Petropoulos Sophie , Saitou Mitinori , Tam Patrick P. L. , Wang Hongmei 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
In the companion Perspective ‘Past and future of human developmental biology’ (Hopwood, 2024), historian Nick Hopwood proposes that the field of human developmental biology has gone through periods of attention and neglect. Development invited researchers from the field to respond to this idea. In this article, published to coincide with the 10th anniversary of Development's ‘From Stem Cells to Human Development’ meeting, researchers from eight countries comment on how they believe their local legal, political, regulatory, societal and technological frameworks are influencing the field's trajectory.
HbA1c and Liver Fat After 16 Weeks of Fasted versus Fed Exercise Training in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: REES JORDAN L. , WALESIAK DEVYN , THOMPSON RICHARD , MAGER DIANA , SENIOR PETER , BOULÉ NORMAND G. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Purpose
Exercise-nutrient timing is of interest for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) as a potential method to optimize glycemic control. However, the optimal nutritional environment for exercise is not well understood over the long term. The Fasted Exercise for Type 2 Diabetes (FED) Trial compared 16 wk of fasted versus postprandial morning exercise on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and liver proton density fat fraction (PDFF).

Methods
Twenty adults with T2D were recruited and randomized to complete exercise after an overnight fast versus after their morning meal. Participants walked three mornings per week, progressing to 180 min·wk−1 over 16 wk.

Results
Groups were balanced with five males and five females each. Sixteen participants completed the trial (8 in each group, 50% female). Age, HbA1c, and PDFF were 59.8 ± 9.0 yr, 7.2 ± 0.7%, and 9.3 ± 4.1%, respectively. On average, both groups completed 98% of their walking sessions but there was no change in HbA1c (−0.2%, P = 0.588). However, one participant from each group had changes in their glucose-lowering medication during the trial, and when excluded, the fasted training group had greater improvements in HbA1c compared with the postprandial group (−0.3% vs 0.0%, P = 0.033). There was no difference in changes in liver PDFF between groups (−1.6% vs 0.3%, P = 0.221) but visceral fat and intramuscular fat decreased to a greater extent after fasted exercise.

Conclusions
Although our study had a small sample size, it suggests that exercise after an overnight fast can have high adherence and represents an option for people with T2D to improve longer-term indicators of glycemia and ectopic fat depots.
Impact of Acute Dietary and Exercise Manipulation on Next-Day RMR Measurements and DXA Body Composition Estimates
Authors: KUIKMAN MEGAN A. , SMITH ELLA , MCKAY ALANNAH K. A. , MCCORMICK RACHEL , ACKERMAN KATHRYN E. , HARRIS RACHEL , ELLIOTT-SALE KIRSTY J. , STELLINGWERFF TRENT , BURKE LOUISE M. 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Purpose
The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of acute diet and exercise manipulation on resting metabolic rate (RMR) measurement variability and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) body composition estimates.

Methods
Ten male and 10 female endurance athletes (12 cyclists, 5 triathletes, 4 runners) of tier 2 (n = 18) to tier 3 (n = 2) caliber underwent five conditions using a Latin square counterbalance design. For 24 h, athletes consumed a diet providing excessive energy availability (EA) (75 kcal⋅kg fat-free mass (FFM)−1) without exercise (GEArest), high-EA (45 kcal⋅kg FFM−1) without (HEArest) or with exercise (HEAex), or low-EA (15 kcal⋅kg FFM−1) without (LEArest) or with exercise (LEAex). Exercise involved two bouts of cycling (morning bout: 149 ± 34 min at 55% of maximal aerobic capacity (V̇O2max); afternoon bout: 60 min at 65% of V̇O2max) that resulted in a cumulative exercise energy expenditure of 30 kcal⋅kg FFM−1. The following day, RMR and DXA measurements occurred after a 10-h fast and 12-h postexercise.

Results
There were neither sex differences in relative RMR (P = 0.158) nor effects of any of the five conditions on RMR (P = 0.358). For both male and female athletes, FFM estimates were decreased following the LEArest (−0.84 ± 0.66 kg; P = 0.001) and LEAex (−0.65 ± 0.86 kg; P = 0.016) conditions compared with the GEArest condition and following the LEArest (−0.73 ± 0.51 kg; P = 0.001) and LEAex (−0.54 ± 0.79 kg; P = 0.024) conditions compared with the HEAex condition. There was no effect of condition on fat mass estimates (P = 0.819).

Conclusions
Acute periods of diet and exercise manipulation did not create artifacts in next-day RMR measurements. However, as changes in estimates of FFM were seen, diet and exercise should be controlled in the 24-h before DXA scans.
Modelos de Fluxos de Carbono em uma Área de Floresta Tropical Zonalmente Seca (Caatinga)
Authors: Silva Joélia Natália Bezerra da , Miranda Rodrigo de Queiroga , Soares Gabriel Antonio Silva , Moura Magna Soelma Beserra de , Galvíncio Josiclêda Domiciano 
Published: September 2024

Estudos sobre trocas de energia em ecossistemas desempenham um papel importante na compreensão dos fluxos de carbono diante dos diferentes padrões da vegetação. No contexto das áreas semiáridas, entender a variabilidade na absorção de carbono é fundamental para quantificar e antecipar os impactos das alterações do ecossistema de caatinga. O objetivo deste estudo é calibrar e avaliar modelos para a Produção Primária Bruta (GPP), o Fluxo Líquido do Ecossistema (NEE) e a Respiração do Ecossistema (Reco) no bioma de caatinga. Foram obtidas medições da NEE, calculado em intervalos de 30 minutos usando o software EddyPro 3.6, a partir de dados brutos medidos a 10 Hz. A GPP foi estimada pela partição do NEE e Reco, todos medidos em micromoles de CO2 por metro quadrado por segundo (μmolCO2 m-2 s-1) na torre de covariância de vórtices turbulentos (EC), instalada em uma reserva legal, na Embrapa Semiárido, em Petrolina - Pernambuco, em um recorte do dossel da caatinga. Após as medições dos fluxos de carbono e da respiração do ecossistema foram realizadas medidas de campo com espectrorradiômetro portátil FieldSpec HandHeld para obter a reflectância do dossel em torno da torre de covariância de vórtices turbulentos, as medições foram realizadas no ano de 2015 em uma área de caatinga preservada. Os modelos de regressão linear múltipla foram desenvolvidos, para estimar os fluxos de carbono, a partir de imagens orbitais, permitindo estimar com precisão GPP, NEE e Reco, utilizando-se o produto MODIS/Terra Reflectância Superficial Diária (MOD09GA). Os principais resultados mostram a eficácia dos modelos desenvolvidos, destacando-se o modelo de GPP com melhores índices estatísticos (R=0,97; R2=0,95; Erro Padrão da Estimativa=0,20). As medições observadas na torre EC apontaram que os modelos desenvolvidos para estimar a NEE, GPP e Reco, com dados da reflectância do visível e do infravermelho próximo, os modelos representaram adequadamente o período seco e capturaram com precisão os aspectos fenológicos do ecossistema da caatinga.
On-demand mitral valve morphometrics during surgical repair
Authors: Grizelj Andela , Sharan Lalith , Karck Matthias , De Simone Raffaele , Romano Gabriele , Engelhardt Sandy 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Mitral valve regurgitation is one of the most common heart valve diseases that can occur when the structural composition of the mitral valve is affected. Mitral valve repair, typically performed in a minimally invasive setting, is a complex surgery that aims to reinstate the structural integrity of the valve and thereby restore normal valve function. The current practice lacks quantification of geometrical changes and interactive 3D visualization that could enhance the understanding of pathomorphological changes and impact of surgical correction. This work presents functionalities from smartMVR, a quantitative tool to measure, compare, and analyse changes in mitral valve geometry from data captured on-demand using an RGB-D camera. The feasibility of the approach is demonstrated on a silicone replica of a pathological mitral valve that is iteratively corrected using common surgical techniques.
Unnecessary repetitions of C-reactive protein and leukocyte count at the emergency department observation unit contribute to higher hospital admission rates
Authors: Gornik Ivan , Lapić Ivana , Franić Hana , Radulović Bojana , Miklić Lea , Rogić Dunja 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of repeated laboratory measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocyte count on the decision whether to admit or dicharge the patient with localized infections who received antibiotics at the Emergency Department (ED) observation unit.

Methods
Adult patients with respiratory, urinary tract and abdominal infections, observed at the ED after antibiotic administration, in whom repeated measurements of CRP and leukocyte count were performed within 24 h, were included. They were initially grouped as planned discharge, planned admission and unclear attitude towards admission. Initial and repeated CRP and leukocyte count results, clinical dynamics (improvement, worsening, unchanged) and clinical decision about discharge or admission, were recorded.

Results
A total of 1,038 patients were eligible for inclusion. No significant differences in initial CRP and leukocyte count values were observed, nor any association of CRP and leukocyte count changes with clinical dynamics. Among 504 patients eligible for discharge at second laboratory sampling according to clinical dynamics, 54.4 % were further observed or admitted. Discharged patients had an average negative absolute (p<0.001) and relative CRP change (p=0.002). Clinical dynamics, first and second CRP results and absolute CRP change were independently associated with the decision to discharge or further observe/admit.

Conclusions
Schematic repetitions of CRP and leukocyte count at the ED observation unit are common, regardless of patients’ clinical condition. Clinical judgment remains the main guiding factor to admit or discharge the patient, but repeated CRP testing influences the final decision, contributing to higher admission rates.
Second-harmonic radiation by on-chip integrable mirror-symmetric nanodimers with sub-nanometric plasmonic gap
Authors: Hu Junzheng , Ye Xiaofei , Huang Hui , Su Guangxu , Lv Zhekai , Qin Zhaofu , Hu Pan , Liu Fanxin , Wu Wei , Zhan Peng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Second-harmonic generation (SHG) facilitated by plasmonic nanostructures has drawn considerable attention, owing to its efficient frequency up-conversion at the nanoscale and potential applications in on-chip integration and nanophotonic devices. Herein, we present a nanodimer array fabricated by nanoimprinting, composed of nanofinger-pair symmetrically leaning at an off-angle with a well-defined sub-nanometric gap. Commonly, geometric symmetry would suppress the far-field SHG due to the near-field cancelling of symmetric surface SH polarization. However, we find that the light-induced surface SH polarization distribution along the wave-vector of incidence could be influenced by the off-angle, which is consistent to the requirement of SH polarization symmetry-breaking in symmetric metallic nanocavity. A dramatic enhancement of far-field SHG is achieved by tuning the off-angle of nanofinger-pair, even approaching up to over 4 orders of magnitude for an optimal value. The demonstration of SHG enhancement on our well-defined plasmonic nanodimer provides a new way of on-chip integration to activate high-efficient SH radiation, which might be potential for applications in novel nonlinear optical nanodevices with remarkable efficiency and sensitivity.
Navigating platform work through solidarity and hustling: the case of ride-hailing drivers in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Ekdale Brian , Aidoo Ebenezer 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Scholarship about worker precarity, economic insecurity, and individualized risk in platform work tends to ignore that these trends are common features of informal economies in countries like Kenya, which has a culture of hustling rooted in economic opportunism and political resistance. Recognizing the parallels between the platform economy and Kenya’s informal economy, we examine individual and collective strategies ride-haling drivers in Kenya use to navigate the precarity of platform work.

Methodology
This study draws primarily from interviews with 30 ride-hailing drivers working in Nairobi, Kenya. Interview data is supplemented by two rounds of in-person fieldwork conducted by the first author who solicited rides, engaged in unstructured conversations with drivers, and kept detailed notes.

Findings
Although ride-hailing companies severely limit opportunities for driver autonomy and labor power, drivers engaged in several individual and collective acts of resistance to increase their income and wrestle back control from their employers. These acts of resistance include extending rides, adding customers outside of the app, asking riders to cancel requests, and striking.

Implications
While ride-hailing platforms exert significant control over drivers’ working conditions and income, drivers can exercise labor power through acts of resistance based on hustling and solidarity. These acts of resistance rely heavily on solidarities among drivers as well as between drivers and riders.

Value
This study answers calls to de-Westernize platform studies by asking what Kenyan ride-hailing drivers can teach the rest of the world about navigating the precarity of global platform work. Our findings extend previous research on platform worker resistance in the Global South by introducing the importance of solidarities between platform workers and clients.