bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A validated estimate of visceral adipose tissue volume in relation to cancer risk
Authors: Lu Yujia , Zhao Yu Chen , Liu Kuangyu , Bever Alaina , Zhou Ziyi , Wang Kai , Fang Zhe , Polychronidis Georgios , Liu Yuchen , Tao Liyuan , Dickerman Barbra A , Giovannucci Edward L , Song Mingyang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite the recognized role of visceral adipose tissue in carcinogenesis, its independent association with cancer risk beyond traditional obesity measures remains unknown because of limited availability of imaging data.

Methods
We developed an estimation equation for visceral adipose tissue volume using elastic net regression based on demographic and anthropometric data in a subcohort of participants in the UK Biobank (UKB; n = 23 148) with abdominal magnetic resonance imaging scans. This equation was externally validated in 2713 participants from the 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey according to sex, age, and race groups. We then applied the equation to the overall UKB cohort of 461 665 participants to evaluate the prospective association between estimated visceral adipose tissue and cancer risk using Cox proportional hazards models. We also calculated the population attributable risk of cancer associated with estimated visceral adipose tissue and body mass index (BMI).

Results
Estimated visceral adipose tissue showed a high correlation with measured visceral adipose tissue in internal and external validations (r = 0.81-0.86). During a median 12-year follow-up in the UKB, we documented 37 397 incident cancer cases; estimated visceral adipose tissue was statistically significantly associated with elevated risk of obesity-related and individual cancers, independent of BMI and waist circumference. Population attributable risk for total cancer associated with high (quartiles 2-4 vs 1) estimated visceral adipose tissue (9.0% for men, 11.6% for women) was higher than high BMI (quartiles 2-4 vs 1 = 5.0% for men, 8.2% for women).

Conclusions
Estimated visceral adipose tissue showed robust performance in UKB and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and was associated with cancer risk independent of BMI and waist circumference. This study provides a potential clinical tool for visceral adipose tissue estimation and underscores that visceral adipose tissue can be an important target for cancer prevention.
Neuro-protective effects of increased O-GlcNAcylation by glucosamine in an optic tectum traumatic brain injury model of adult zebrafish
Authors: Sung Hyun Jae , Kim Dong Yeol , Bui Ngan An , Han Inn-Oc 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This study investigated the behavioral and molecular changes in the telencephalon following needle stab-induced injury in the optic tectum of adult zebrafish. At 3 days post-injury (dpi), there was noticeable structural damage to brain tissue and reduced neuronal proliferation in the telencephalon that persisted until 30 dpi. Neurobehavioral deficits observed at 3 dpi included decreased exploratory and social activities and impaired learning and memory (L/M) functions; all of these resolved by 7 dpi. The injury led to a reduction in telencephalic phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein and O-GlcNAcylation, both of which were restored by 30 dpi. There was an increase in GFAP expression and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 at 3 dpi, which were not restored by 30 dpi. The injury caused decreased O-GlcNAc transferase and increased O-GlcNAcase levels at 3 dpi, normalizing by 30 dpi. Glucosamine (GlcN) treatment at 3 dpi significantly restored O-GlcNAcylation levels and L/M function, also reducing GFAP activation. Glucose treatment recovered L/M function by 7 dpi, but inhibition of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway by 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine blocked this recovery. These findings suggest that the O-GlcNAc pathway is a potential therapeutic target for addressing L/M impairment following traumatic brain injury in zebrafish.
A morphological analysis of the galaxy cluster XLSSC 122 at z = 1.98
Authors: Leste O K , Willis J P , Canning R E A , Rennehan D 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT
We present a morphological analysis of 29 spectroscopically confirmed members of XLSSC 122, a massive galaxy cluster at $z=1.98$. We perform photometry using statmorph on images of the cluster members from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Wide Field Camera (WFC3) in the F140W band. We visually assess the images and compute non-parametric morphological measures, namely the concentration C, asymmetry A, Gini, and $M_{20}$ values and use them to classify cluster members as either being bulge-dominated, disc-dominated or presenting possible merger features. The morphological properties of the XLSSC 122 members show clear evidence of bimodality. The bulge-dominated galaxies are redder, older, and are found in the denser regions of the cluster, while the galaxies showing disturbed features are bluer, younger and are found towards the outskirts of the cluster. XLSSC 122 is also found to be deficient in blue and disturbed galaxies compared to field galaxy populations from the Cosmic Assembly Near-IR Extragalactic Legacy Survey (CANDELS)/3D-HST surveys. An analysis of merger events occurring in numerical simulations suggest that galaxy interactions generating a population of morphologically disturbed galaxies in XLSSC 122 may have occurred over the interval $2\lt z\lt 3$, that is, prior to their infall into the virial core of the cluster.
Star-forming and quiescent central galaxies cluster similarly: implications for the galaxy–halo connection
Authors: Kakos James , Rodríguez-Puebla Aldo , Primack Joel R , Faber Sandra M , Koo David C , Behroozi Peter , Avila-Reese Vladimir 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT
We measure the clustering of low-redshift Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) galaxies as a function of stellar mass ($10.0\lt \log (M_*/\mathrm{M}_\odot)\lt 11.5$) and specific star formation rate (sSFR) and compare the results to models of the galaxy–halo connection. We find that the autocorrelation functions of central galaxies exhibit little dependence on sSFR, with the well-known stronger clustering of quiescent galaxies mainly attributable to satellites. Because halo assembly history is known to affect distinct halo clustering, this result implies that there is little net correlation between halo assembly history and central galaxy sSFR. However, cross-correlations with satellites are stronger for quiescent centrals than star-forming centrals, consistent with quiescent centrals having more satellites in their haloes at fixed $M_*$, as found in SDSS group catalogues. We model the galaxy–halo connection in an N-body simulation by assigning sSFRs to central galaxies in three different ways. Two of the models depend on halo assembly history (being based on halo accretion rate or concentration), while the third is independent of halo assembly history (being based on peak halo circular velocity, $V_\text{peak}$, a proxy for halo mass). All three models replicate the observed autocorrelations of central galaxies, while only the $V_\text{peak}$ model reproduces the observed cross-correlations with satellites. This further suggests that the effects of halo assembly history may not be easily seen in autocorrelations of centrals and implies that a more complete understanding of central galaxy clustering may require more than autocorrelations of centrals alone. Additionally, the good agreement with the $V_\text{peak}$ model supports the idea that quiescent central galaxies reside in more massive haloes than star-forming central galaxies at fixed $M_*$.
Comparative genomics supports ecologically induced selection as a putative driver of banded penguin diversification
Authors: León Fabiola , Pizarro Eduardo , Noll Daly , Pertierra Luis R , Parker Patricia , Espinaze Marcela P A , Luna-Jorquera Guillermo , Simeone Alejandro , Frere Esteban , Dantas Gisele , Cristofari Robin , Cornejo Omar E , Bowie Rauri C K , Vianna Juliana A 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The relative importance of genetic drift and local adaptation in facilitating speciation remains unclear. This is particularly true for seabirds, who can disperse over large geographic distances, providing opportunities for intermittent gene flow among distant colonies that span the temperature and salinity gradients of the oceans. Here, we delve into the genomic basis of adaptation and speciation of banded penguins, Galápagos (Spheniscus mendiculus), Humboldt (S. humboldti), Magellanic (S. magellanicus) and African penguins (S. demersus), by analyzing 114 genomes from the main 16 breeding colonies. We aim to identify the molecular mechanism and genomic adaptive traits that have facilitated their diversifications. Through positive selection and gene family expansion analyses, we identified candidate genes that may be related to reproductive isolation processes mediated by ecological thermal niche divergence. We recover signals of positive selection on key loci associated with spermatogenesis, especially during the recent peripatric divergence of the Galápagos penguin from the Humboldt penguin. High temperatures in tropical habitats may have favored selection on loci associated with spermatogenesis to maintain sperm viability, leading to reproductive isolation among young species. Our results suggest that genome-wide selection on loci associated with molecular pathways that underpin thermoregulation, osmoregulation, hypoxia, and social behavior appear to have been crucial in local adaptation of banded penguins. Overall, these results contribute to our understanding of how the complexity of biotic, but especially abiotic, factors, along with the high dispersal capabilities of these marine species, may promote both neutral and adaptive lineage divergence even in the presence of gene flow.
Global analysis of the RNA–RNA interactome inAcinetobacter baumanniiAB5075 uncovers a small regulatory RNA repressing the virulence-related outer membrane protein CarO
Authors: Hamrock Fergal J , Ryan Daniel , Shaibah Ali , Ershova Anna S , Mogre Aalap , Sulimani Maha M , Ben Taarit Safa , Reichardt Sarah , Hokamp Karsten , Westermann Alexander J , Kröger Carsten 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAcinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic Gram-negative pathogen that infects critically ill patients. The emergence of antimicrobial resistant A. baumannii has exacerbated the need to characterize environmental adaptation, antibiotic resistance and pathogenicity and their genetic regulators to inform intervention strategies. Critical to adaptation to changing environments in bacteria are small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs), however, the role that sRNAs play in the biology of A. baumannii is poorly understood. To assess the regulatory function of sRNAs and to uncover their RNA interaction partners, we employed an RNA proximity ligation and sequencing method (Hi-GRIL-seq) in three different environmental conditions. Forty sRNAs were ligated to sRNA–RNA chimeric sequencing reads, suggesting that sRNA-mediated gene regulation is pervasive in A. baumannii. In-depth characterization uncovered the sRNA Aar to be a post-transcriptional regulator of four mRNA targets including the transcript encoding outer membrane protein CarO. Aar initiates base-pairing with these mRNAs using a conserved seed region of nine nucleotides, sequestering the ribosome binding sites and inhibiting translation. Aar is differentially expressed in multiple stress conditions suggesting a role in fine-tuning translation of the Aar-target molecules. Our study provides mechanistic insights into sRNA-mediated gene regulation in A. baumannii and represents a valuable resource for future RNA-centric research endeavours.
Template-independent synthesis and 3′-end labelling of 2′-modified oligonucleotides with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferases
Authors: Sun Leping , Xiang Yuming , Du Yuhui , Wang Yangming , Ma Jiezhao , Wang Yaxin , Wang Xueting , Wang Guangyuan , Chen Tingjian 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Xenobiotic nucleic acids (XNAs) are artificial genetic polymers with altered structural moieties and useful features, such as enhanced biological and chemical stability. Enzymatic synthesis and efficient labelling of XNAs are crucial for their broader application. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferases (TdTs) have been exploited for the de novo synthesis and labelling of DNA and demonstrated the capability of recognizing various substrates. However, the activities of TdTs for the synthesis and labelling of commonly used XNAs with 2′ modifications have not been systematically explored. In this work, we explored and demonstrated the varied activities of three TdTs (bovine TdT, MTdT-evo and murine TdT) for the template-independent incorporation of 2′-methoxy NTPs, 2′-fluoro NTPs and 2′-fluoroarabino NTPs into the 3′ ends of single- and double-stranded DNAs and the extension of 2′-modified XNAs with (d)NTPs containing a natural or unnatural nucleobase. Taking advantages of these activities, we established a strategy for protecting single-stranded DNAs from exonuclease I degradation by TdT-synthesized 2′-modified XNA tails and methods for 3′-end labelling of 2′-modified XNAs by TdT-mediated synthesis of G-quadruplex-containing tails or incorporation of nucleotides with a functionalized nucleobase. A DNA-2′-fluoroarabino nucleic acid (FANA) chimeric hydrogel was also successfully constructed based on the extraordinary activity of MTdT-evo for template-independent FANA synthesis.
The emerging field of viroimmunotherapy for pediatric brain tumors
Authors: Garcia-Moure Marc , Laspidea Virginia , Gupta Sumit , Gillard Andrew G , Khatua Soumen , Parthasarathy Akhila , He Jiasen , Lang Frederick F , Fueyo Juan , Alonso Marta M , Gomez-Manzano Candelaria 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Pediatric brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children. Even to date, with the advances in multimodality therapeutic management, survival outcomes remain dismal in some types of tumors, such as pediatric-type diffuse high-grade gliomas or central nervous system embryonal tumors. Failure to understand the complex molecular heterogeneity and the elusive tumor and microenvironment interplay continues to undermine therapeutic efficacy. Developing a strategy that would improve survival for these fatal tumors remains unmet in pediatric neuro-oncology. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are emerging as a feasible, safe, and promising therapy for brain tumors. The new paradigm in virotherapy implies that the direct cytopathic effect is followed, under certain circumstances, by an antitumor immune response responsible for the partial or complete debulking of the tumor mass. OVs alone or combined with other therapeutic modalities have been primarily used in adult neuro-oncology. A surge in encouraging preclinical studies in pediatric brain tumor models recently led to the clinical translation of OVs with encouraging results in these tumors. In this review, we summarize the different virotherapy tested in preclinical and clinical studies in pediatric brain tumors, and we discuss the limitations and future avenues necessary to improve the response of these tumors to this type of therapy.
Exploring Perceptions of Anti-vaping Message Themes: A Qualitative Study of Australian Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Brierley Mary-Ellen E , Kirley Isabella , Jongenelis Michelle I 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Minimizing electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) uptake and encouraging vaping cessation have become important components of public health agendas. Given the success of well-designed anti-smoking campaigns, attention has turned to developing health communications that target vaping. Although prior work has identified a range of potentially effective campaign messages, several gaps in the literature remain. We aimed to (1) identify message themes perceived to be effective at minimizing e-cigarette use and (2) elicit opinions on how these message themes could be optimized in terms of message execution and delivery.

Aims and Methods
Focus groups (FG; n = 16) were conducted with adolescents (14- to 15- and 16- to 17-year-olds), young adults (18- to 24-year-olds), and adults (25- to 39-year-olds). The groups reported on message themes they believed would assist with minimizing e-cigarette use. They then provided feedback on 14 message themes developed by the research team. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results
Groups discussed a range of message themes they believed would be effective. These included themes focused on the health harms associated with vaping, the chemical ingredients in e-cigarettes, use dependence, and social attitudes to use. Groups discussed the importance of using evidence-based personal testimonies and reported that messages would be most effectively communicated via social media, in public places, and at point of sale.

Conclusions
Results build on existing research by identifying message themes perceived to be most effective, and how these could best be executed. Results have the potential to inform the development of co-designed health communication campaigns addressing youth vaping.

Implications
Using a stratified FG methodology, we collected rich and detailed qualitative data on Australians’ perceptions of anti-vaping message themes. The themes considered most effective were those that addressed the health harms of vaping, the chemical ingredients in e-cigarettes, the social consequences of use, and the impacts of dependence. We recommend further work to develop and trial a range of specific anti-vaping messages based on the themes identified as having the most potential. This process should include iterative co-design with the target audience to optimize future health communication campaigns.
Associations of Co-Occurring Chronic Conditions With Use of Rehabilitation Services in Older Adults With Back Pain: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Rundell Sean D , Karmarkar Amol , Patel Kushang V 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective was to examine the associations of number and type of chronic conditions with the use of rehabilitation services among older adults with bothersome back pain.

Methods
We conducted a cohort study using the National Health and Aging Trends Study, a longitudinal survey of Medicare beneficiaries ≥65 years. We included community-dwelling older adults with bothersome back pain in 2015. We assessed 12 self-reported chronic conditions, including arthritis, depression, and anxiety. We used 2016 data to ascertain self-reported use of any rehabilitation services in the prior year. We used weighted, logistic regression to examine the association of conditions with rehabilitation use.

Results
The sample size was 2443. A majority were age ≥75 years (59%); female (62%); and White, non-Hispanic (71%). The median number of chronic conditions was 3 (interquartile range, 2–4). Arthritis was the most common chronic condition (73%); 14% had anxiety; and 16% had depression. For every additional chronic condition, adjusted odds of any rehabilitation use increased 21% (Odds Ratio = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.11–1.31). Those with ≥4 chronic conditions had 2.13 times higher odds (95% CI = 1.36–3.34) of any rehabilitation use in the next year versus those with 0–1 condition. Participants with arthritis had 1.96 times higher odds (95% CI = 1.41–2.72) of any rehabilitation use versus those without arthritis. Anxiety and depression were not significantly associated with rehabilitation use.

Conclusions
Among older adults with back pain, a greater number of chronic conditions and arthritis were associated with higher use of rehabilitation services. Those with anxiety or depression had no difference in their use of rehabilitation care versus those without these conditions.

Impact
This pattern suggests appropriate use of rehabilitation for patients with back pain and multiple chronic conditions based on greater need, but there may be potential underuse for those with back pain and psychological conditions.
Higher Purpose, Employees, and the Firm
Authors: Thakor Anjan V 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
I present a theory of organizational higher purpose in which, in addition to profits, the firms’ owners and employees care about a purpose that guides decisions but transcends business goals. This purpose sacrifices profits but serves a greater good that generates positive utility for the owners and employees. Some purpose-driven firms insure employees against layoffs and may pay employees more or less than firms not offering such insurance. Whether purpose-driven firms offering layoff insurance pay employees more or less than purpose-driven firms not offering this insurance depends on the owner’s purpose-linked utility relative to the employee’s. (JEL D01, D21, D24, G03, G32)
Treatment of giant cell arteritis with ultra-short glucocorticoids and tocilizumab: results from the extension of the TOPAZIO study
Authors: Muratore Francesco , Marvisi Chiara , Cassone Giulia , Ricordi Caterina , Boiardi Luigi , Mancuso Pamela , Besutti Giulia , Spaggiari Lucia , Casali Massimiliano , Croci Stefania , Durmo Rexhep , Versari Annibale , Di Tommaso Gabriella , Catanoso Mariagrazia , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Salvarani Carlo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To assess the maintenance of efficacy of one year of tocilizumab (TCZ) monotherapy after its discontinuation in large vessel-GCA (LV-GCA).

Methods
17 patients with active LV-GCA were previously treated with 3 boluses of intravenous methylprednisone and weekly subcutaneous TCZ in monotherapy for 52 weeks. Patients in relapse-free clinical remission at week 52 discontinued TCZ and entered part two, which was a 26-week observational follow-up period. PET/CT was performed in all patients at the end of the 26-week observational period (week 78). End points were the variation in PET vascular activity score (PETVAS) at week 78 compared with baseline and with week 52, and the proportion of patients with relapse-free clinical remission at week 78 and at the end of the follow-up.

Results
Compared with baseline, a significant reduction in PETVAS was observed at week 78, mean (95% CI) change −6.6 (−9.5 to −3.7). However, compared with week 52, PETVAS significantly increase 6 months after TCZ discontinuation (week 78), mean (95% CI) change 4.6 (0.7–8.5). The proportion of patients with relapse-free clinical remission at weeks 78 and at the end of the follow-up (median time from TCZ discontinuation 148 weeks) was 11/17 (65%, 95% CI 38–86) and 8/17 (47%, 95% CI 23–72), respectively. Age and sex-adjusted HR (95% CI) for each unit increase of PETVAS indicating subsequent relapse was 1.36 (0.92–2.00).

Conclusions
One year of TCZ monotherapy was effective in maintaining drug-free clinical remission in LV-GCA. Changes in PETVAS early after TCZ discontinuation may predict subsequent relapses.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, http://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05394909.