bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding the genetic basis of blueberry postharvest traits to define better breeding strategies
Authors: Casorzo Gonzalo , Ferrão Luis Felipe , Adunola Paul , Tavares Flores Estefania , Azevedo Camila , Amadeu Rodrigo , Munoz Patricio R 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) is among the most-consumed soft fruit and has been recognized as an important source of health-promoting compounds. Highly perishable and susceptible to rapid spoilage due to fruit softening and decay during postharvest storage, modern breeding programs are looking to maximize the quality and extend the market life of fresh blueberries. However, it is uncertain how genetically controlled postharvest quality traits are in blueberries. This study aimed to investigate the prediction ability and the genetic basis of the main fruit quality traits affected during blueberry postharvest to create breeding strategies for developing cultivars with an extended shelf life. To achieve this goal, we carried out target genotyping in a breeding population of 588 individuals and evaluated several fruit quality traits after 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 7 weeks of postharvest storage at 1°C. Using longitudinal genome-based methods, we estimated genetic parameters and predicted unobserved phenotypes. Our results showed large diversity, moderate heritability, and consistent predictive accuracies along the postharvest storage for most of the traits. Regarding the fruit quality, firmness showed the largest variation during postharvest storage, with a surprising number of genotypes maintaining or increasing their firmness, even after 7 weeks of cold storage. Our results suggest that we can effectively improve the blueberry postharvest quality through breeding and use genomic prediction to maximize the genetic gains in the long term. We also emphasize the potential of using longitudinal genomic prediction models to predict the fruit quality at extended postharvest periods by integrating known phenotypic data from harvest.
Improvement of Immune Function and Redox State in Several Organs of Old and Prematurely Aging Female Mice After a Short Social Interaction With Adults
Authors: Félix Judith , Díaz-Del Cerro Estefanía , De la Fuente Mónica 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Aging is associated with chronic oxidative stress, which contributes to the deterioration of the immune system, increasing morbidity and mortality. A positive social environment permits health maintenance and a slower rate of aging. Improvements in immune function and oxidative stress were shown in peritoneal leukocytes and organs of old mice and adult prematurely aging mice (PAM) after cohabitation with adults or exceptional non-prematurely aging mice (ENPAM), respectively, for 2 months, but adults and ENPAM experienced deterioration. This was solved by shortening the cohabitation time to 15 minutes per day for 2 months, where old mice and PAM maintained immune and redox state improvements in their peritoneal leukocytes, as well as a greater longevity, and adults and ENPAM did not show deterioration. However, it is unknown whether the positive effects of this short cohabitation are reflected in the immunity and redox state of the organs. The aim of the present study was to test whether a cohabitation of 15 minutes per day for 2 months maintains these positive effects in the organs of retired breeder female old mice and PAM and avoids the negative ones in adults and ENPAM. After cohabitation the animals were sacrificed, and the thymus and spleen were extracted to evaluate the immune function. The oxidative state was also analyzed in the spleen, liver, heart, lung, and kidney. The results show that after cohabitation, old mice and PAM improved their immunity and redox state, and adults and ENPAM showed no deterioration. This cohabitation can be suggested to improve health and slow down aging.
Impact of Frailty, Early Vascular Decline, and Subclinical Cognitive Impairment in Midlife Adults: Study Protocol of the Toledo Study for Healthy Ageing in Middle Age
Authors: Alcazar Julian , Muñoz-Muñoz Miguel , Baltasar-Fernández Iván , Leal-Martín Javier , García-Aguirre Mikel , Sánchez-Martín Coral , Gutiérrez-Reguero Héctor , Sierra-Ramon Miguel , Alfaro-Acha Ana , Losa-Reyna José , Alegre Luis M , Ara Ignacio , García-García Francisco José 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Life expectancy has increased worldwide alongside a rise in disability prevalence during old age. The impact and interrelationship among the precursors of disability in midlife remain to be better understood. Furthermore, investigating whether lifestyle factors may potentially influence health outcomes and the prognosis of vascular disease could be especially relevant among the middle-aged population, which is a priority subpopulation when prevention is the goal. This is an observational, cross-sectional, and population-based study. Participants, between 50 and 55 years old, are randomly selected from the municipality of Toledo (Spain). There are 6 nonconsecutive days for the assessments, providing enough rest between evaluations. Participants perform the interview of the Toledo Study for Healthy Aging. Blood pressure monitoring and a resting electrocardiogram are also recorded. Then, resting peripheral and cerebral vascular measurements along with muscle size and architecture are assessed. Blood and urine samples and body composition data are collected after an overnight fasting. On a different visit, physical performance and muscle function tests are performed. Additionally, brain magnetic resonance imaging is conducted. And finally, an accelerometer is given to the participants for a week. Frailty is evaluated by the Frailty Trait Scale and Fried Frailty Phenotype. This project will shed light on the associations between frailty, early cognitive impairment, and vascular aging during midlife, and on the role that lifestyles play in their development. Lastly, this project will provide meaningful implications for public health strategies aimed at promoting healthy aging in later life.
ChatGPT’s Role in Gerontology Research
Authors: Kaufmann Christopher N , Bai Chen , Borgia Brianne , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan , Lin Yi , Mardini Mamoun T , McElroy Taylor , Swanson Clayton W , Wimberly Keon D , Zapata Ruben , Zeidan Rola S , Manini Todd M 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT) and other ChatBots have emerged as tools for interacting with information in manners resembling natural human speech. Consequently, the technology is used across various disciplines, including business, education, and even in biomedical sciences. There is a need to better understand how ChatGPT can be used to advance gerontology research. Therefore, we evaluated ChatGPT responses to questions on specific topics in gerontology research, and brainstormed recommendations for its use in the field.

Methods
We conducted semistructured brainstorming sessions to identify uses of ChatGPT in gerontology research. We divided a team of multidisciplinary researchers into 4 topical groups: (a) gero-clinical science, (b) basic geroscience, (c) informatics as it relates to electronic health records, and (d) gero-technology. Each group prompted ChatGPT on a theory-, methods-, and interpretation-based question and rated responses for accuracy and completeness based on standardized scales.

Results
ChatGPT responses were rated by all groups as generally accurate. However, the completeness of responses was rated lower, except by members of the informatics group, who rated responses as highly comprehensive.

Conclusions
ChatGPT accurately depicts some major concepts in gerontological research. However, researchers have an important role in critically appraising the completeness of its responses. Having a single generalized resource like ChatGPT may help summarize the preponderance of evidence in the field to identify gaps in knowledge and promote cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Impairment of Renal and Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cell Compartments in Frailty Syndrome: Link With Oxidative Stress, Plasma Cytokine Profiles, and Nuclear DNA Damage
Authors: Bombelli Silvia , Grasselli Chiara , Mazzola Paolo , Veronesi Valentina , Morabito Ivana , Zucchini Nicola , Scollo Chiara M , Blanco Salvatore I , De Marco Sofia , Torsello Barbara , Vitarelli Federica , Antolini Laura , Bianchi Cristina , Leoni Valerio , Bellelli Giuseppe , Perego Roberto A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Frailty is an age-related syndrome that drives multiple physiological system impairments in some older adults, and its pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. We evaluated whether frailty-related biological processes could impair stem cell compartments, specifically the renal stem compartment, given that kidney dysfunctions are frequent in frailty. A well-characterized in vitro nephrosphere model of human adult renal stem/progenitor cells has been instrumental to and was appropriate for verifying this hypothesis in our current research. Evaluating the effects of plasma from older individuals with frailty (frail plasma) on allogeneic renal stem/progenitor cells, we showed significant functional impairment and nuclear DNA damage in the treated cells of the renal stem compartment. The analysis of the frail plasma revealed mitochondrial functional impairment associated with the activation of oxidative stress and a unique inflammatory mediator profile in frail individuals. In addition, the plasma of frail subjects also contained the highest percentage of DNA-damaged autologous circulating hematopoietic progenitor/stem cells. The integration of both molecular and functional data obtained allowed us to discern patterns associated with frailty status, irrespective of the comorbidities present in the frail individuals. The data obtained converged toward biological conditions that in frailty caused renal and hematopoietic impairment of stem cells, highlighting the possibility of concomitant exhaustion of several stem compartments.
Integration of CTCF loops, methylome, and transcriptome in differentiating LUHMES as a model for imprinting dynamics of the 15q11-q13 locus in human neurons
Authors: Gutierrez Fugón Orangel J , Sharifi Osman , Heath Nicholas , Soto Daniela C , Gomez J Antonio , Yasui Dag H , Mendiola Aron Judd P , O’Geen Henriette , Beitnere Ulrika , Tomkova Marketa , Haghani Viktoria , Dillon Greg , Segal David J , LaSalle Janine M 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Human cell line models, including the neuronal precursor line LUHMES, are important for investigating developmental transcriptional dynamics within imprinted regions, particularly the 15q11-q13 Angelman (AS) and Prader-Willi (PWS) syndrome locus. AS results from loss of maternal UBE3A in neurons, where the paternal allele is silenced by a convergent antisense transcript UBE3A-ATS, a lncRNA that terminates at PWAR1 in non-neurons. qRT-PCR analysis confirmed the exclusive and progressive increase in UBE3A-ATS in differentiating LUHMES neurons, validating their use for studying UBE3A silencing. Genome-wide transcriptome analyses revealed changes to 11 834 genes during neuronal differentiation, including the upregulation of most genes within the 15q11-q13 locus. To identify dynamic changes in chromatin loops linked to transcriptional activity, we performed a HiChIP validated by 4C, which identified two neuron-specific CTCF loops between MAGEL2-SNRPN and PWAR1-UBE3A. To determine if allele-specific differentially methylated regions (DMR) may be associated with CTCF loop anchors, whole genome long-read nanopore sequencing was performed. We identified a paternally hypomethylated DMR near the SNRPN upstream loop anchor exclusive to neurons and a paternally hypermethylated DMR near the PWAR1 CTCF anchor exclusive to undifferentiated cells, consistent with increases in neuronal transcription. Additionally, DMRs near CTCF loop anchors were observed in both cell types, indicative of allele-specific differences in chromatin loops regulating imprinted transcription. These results provide an integrated view of the 15q11-q13 epigenetic landscape during LUHMES neuronal differentiation, underscoring the complex interplay of transcription, chromatin looping, and DNA methylation. They also provide insights for future therapeutic approaches for AS and PWS.
Engagement with health research summaries via digital communication to All of Us participants
Authors: Ter Meer Janna , Kamyar Royan , Orlovsky Christina , Hung Ting-Yang , Benrey Tamara , Dinh-Luong Ethan , Quer Giorgio , Moore Vogel Julia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
Summaries of health research can be a complementary way to return value to participants. We assess how research participants engage with summaries via email communication and how this can be improved.

Materials and Methods
We look at correlations between demographic subgroups and engagement in a longitudinal dataset of 305 626 participants (77% are classified as underrepresented in biomedical research) from the All of Us Research Program. We compare this against engagement with other program communications and use impact evaluations (N = 421 510) to measure the effect of tailoring communication by (1) eliciting content preferences, (2) Spanish focused content, (3) informational videos, and (4) article content in the email subject line.

Results
Between March 2020 and October 2021, research summaries reached 67% of enrolled participants, outperforming other program communication (60%) and return of results (31%), which have a high uptake rate but have been extended to a subset of eligible participants. While all demographic subgroups engage with research summaries, participants with higher income, educational attainment, White, and older than 45 years open and click content most often. Surfacing article content in the email subject line and Spanish focused content had negative effects on engagement. Video and social media content and eliciting preferences led to a small directional increase in clicks.

Discussion
Further individualization of tailoring efforts may be needed to drive larger engagement effects (eg, delivering multiple articles in line with stated preferences, expanding preference options). Our findings are likely a conservative representation of engagement effects, given the coarseness of our click rate measure.

Conclusions
Health research summaries show promise as a way to return value to research participants, especially if individual-level results cannot be returned. Personalization of communication requires testing to determine whether efforts are having the expected effect.
Privacy preserving record linkage for public health action: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Pathak Aditi , Serrer Laina , Zapata Daniela , King Raymond , Mirel Lisa B , Sukalac Thomas , Srinivasan Arunkumar , Baier Patrick , Bhalla Meera , David-Ferdon Corinne , Luxenberg Steven , Gundlapalli Adi V 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To understand the landscape of privacy preserving record linkage (PPRL) applications in public health, assess estimates of PPRL accuracy and privacy, and evaluate factors for PPRL adoption.

Materials and Methods
A literature scan examined the accuracy, data privacy, and scalability of PPRL in public health. Twelve interviews with subject matter experts were conducted and coded using an inductive approach to identify factors related to PPRL adoption.

Results
PPRL has a high level of linkage quality and accuracy. PPRL linkage quality was comparable to that of clear text linkage methods (requiring direct personally identifiable information [PII]) for linkage across various settings and research questions. Accuracy of PPRL depended on several components, such as PPRL technique, and the proportion of missingness and errors in underlying data. Strategies to increase adoption include increasing understanding of PPRL, improving data owner buy-in, establishing governance structure and oversight, and developing a public health implementation strategy for PPRL.

Discussion
PPRL protects privacy by eliminating the need to share PII for linkage, but the accuracy and linkage quality depend on factors including the choice of PPRL technique and specific PII used to create encrypted identifiers. Large-scale implementations of PPRL linking millions of observations—including PCORnet, National Institutes for Health N3C, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 project have demonstrated the scalability of PPRL for public health applications.

Conclusions
Applications of PPRL in public health have demonstrated their value for the public health community. Although gaps must be addressed before wide implementation, PPRL is a promising solution to data linkage challenges faced by the public health ecosystem.
Case study: cremophor EL-based liquid formulations as simple substitutes for amorphous solid dispersions in early preclinical in vivo studies
Authors: Sigfridsson Kalle , Zhang Xiang , Llinas Antonio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The objective of the present case study was to increase the exposure of the poorly soluble crystalline compound A.

Methods
Mice received 10 mg/kg of crystalline compound A formulated in eight different cosolvent, oil, and cyclodextrin mixtures.

Key findings
In all cases, AUC0–24h and maximum blood/plasma concentration (Cmax) were in the range of 6–16 µM × h and &lt;1.4 µm, respectively, with a bioavailability below 18%. When 6% cremophor (CrEL) was added to three selected vehicles, AUC0–24h and Cmax increased ~5–10 times. The obtained pharmacokinetic profile of the most improved formulation using CrEL was possible to superimpose on the one obtained after administration of a CrEL-free amorphous solid dispersion (ASD, HPMC-AS:drug, 80:20) suspension of compound A.

Conclusions
It is crucial to find an optimal screen vehicle as early as possible for a poorly water-soluble lead series and then avoid time and resource-consuming vehicle testing of multiple compounds in vivo. An ASD approach is more suited for clinical development when more time and resources are allocated to the project. In this case study, some preclinical formulations were used to maximize exposure but also as preindicators for ASDs later in the development chain.
Paediatric colorectal surgery
Authors: Blood Alyssa G. , Merianos Demetri J. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Paediatric colorectal surgery encompasses a wide variety of disease processes, both congenital and acquired, that affect the colon and rectum. Many of these conditions require surgical intervention during infancy or childhood, with the subsequent need for long-term follow-up by adult colorectal surgeons. The intention of this chapter is to familiarize the reader with the common colorectal conditions encountered and treated by paediatric surgeons. There is particular emphasis on those that may need follow-up later in life by an adult colorectal surgeon. This chapter will also attempt to emphasize the medical and surgical management of each condition, as well as the potential long-term sequelae.
Rectovaginal and rectovesical fistulae
Authors: Sonoda Toyooki 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Rectovaginal fistulae are abnormal connections between the vagina and the lower gastrointestinal tract, that often lead to debilitating, uncontrolled passage of gas and faecal matter through the vagina. Obstetric injury is the most common cause of an acquired rectovaginal fistula. Despite several options for repair, none has been demonstrated to be superior to the others. When choosing the optimal procedure, we must consider the location of the fistula, its aetiology, and whether there is a concomitant anal sphincter defect. All types of repair are prone to failure and many will require repeat intervention. Options of tissue interposition and faecal diversion should be considered for complex and refractory cases. Rectovesical fistulae are false connections between the rectum and bladder. As in rectovaginal fistulae, various methods of repair have been described. The aetiology of the fistula, its height and size, and local tissue conditions will help to determine the best surgical approach.
Colon cancer surgery
Authors: Ochiai Hiroki , Ishii Yoshiyuki , Watanabe Masahiko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third most frequent cause of all deaths from malignant neoplasms—there are about 56,000 deaths, and 150,000 patients are affected every year. Various chemotherapeutic drugs and molecular targeted medicines have emerged, and the medical treatment is developing rapidly in recent years. However, the first choice of curative treatment is still the surgical approach. In particular, the advent of laparoscopy has drastically changed the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer, and it has changed colorectal cancer surgery from being invisible surgery to visible surgery. Many innovative surgical instruments have been and will be developed in the future. A combination of great knowledge and skilled techniques with the new devices will lead to excellent outcomes in colon cancer patients.
Ulcerative colitis
Authors: Gordon Benjamin L. , Smith Emily S. , Tricarico Christopher , Wan David W. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The prevalence of ulcerative colitis (UC) continues to increase, particularly in newly industrialized countries, and UC is associated with significant morbidity and healthcare costs. UC is thought to arise from an exaggerated immune response to gut flora in genetically susceptible individuals. The diagnosis of UC involves assessment of serum and stool inflammatory markers, endoscopic evaluation, and histologic review. Patients are classified by disease extent and severity by a number of instruments, including the Montreal classification and Mayo score. Treatment goals in UC are both clinical and endoscopic remission. The mainstay of therapy in mild-to-moderate UC is topical 5-aminosalicylates with or without oral 5-aminosalicylates, depending on disease extent. Biologic agents, including anti-tumour necrosis factor and anti-integrin therapies, are first-line treatment options for moderate-to-severe UC. Many UC patients will not achieve remission with medical therapy alone, and will require surgical intervention.
Intestinal stomas
Authors: Pappou Emmanouil P. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The creation of an abdominal stoma is a common procedure performed by surgeons as part of treatment for both benign and malignant conditions. Stoma formation can be either permanent or temporary and can be created in an elective or an emergency operation. The most common abdominal stomas are an ileostomy or colostomy. Often stoma creation is performed at the conclusion of a complex and challenging operation. The rate of complications following stoma creation is not insignificant, and care must be taken to adhere to sound surgical techniques. Individuals scheduled for ostomy surgery and those with a new or established stoma can benefit from the services of a certified wound, ostomy, and continence nurse at an ostomy clinic.
Endocrinology
Authors: Karavadra Babu , Haines Richard A. , Sule Medha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This chapter focuses on single best answer questions that test knowledge on the endocrinology that is relevant for the MRCOG part 1 examination. A good understanding of the endocrinology that underpins the specialty is important. The endocrinology that underpins the hypothalamic-pituitary-axis is absolutely vital when trying to understand the menstrual cycle and its related pathology. In order to request the appropriate investigations in patients presenting with menstrual disturbance, a fundamental understanding of basic endocrinological processes will help with this. Applied endocrinology is also seen in the antenatal clinic either preconceptionally or during pregnancy; with diabetes being extremely common within this context.