bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lack of mTORC2 signaling in CD11c+ myeloid cells inhibits their migration and ameliorates experimental colitis
Authors: Ignacio Aline , Cipelli Marcella , Takiishi Tatiane , Favero Aguiar Cristhiane , Fernandes Terra Fernanda , Ghirotto Bruno , Martins Silva Eloisa , Castoldi Angela , Magalhães Yuli Thamires , Antonio Tiago , Nunes Padovani Barbara , Ioshie Hiyane Meire , Andrade-Oliveira Vinicius , Forti Fabio Luis , Olsen Saraiva Camara Niels 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a key role in determining immune cells function through modulation of their metabolic status. By specific deletion of Rictor in CD11c+ myeloid cells (referred to here as CD11cRicΔ/Δ), we investigated the role of mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2) signaling in dendritic cells (DCs) function in mice. We showed that upon dextran sulfate sodium–induced colitis, the lack of mTORC2 signaling CD11c+ cells diminishes the colitis score and abrogates DC migration to the mesenteric lymph nodes, thereby diminishing the infiltration of T helper 17 cells in the lamina propria and subsequent inflammation. These findings corroborate with the abrogation of cytoskeleton organization and the decreased activation of Rac1 and Cdc42 GTPases observed in CD11c+-mTORC2–deficient cells. Meta-analysis on colonic samples from ulcerative colitis patients revealed increased gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines, which coincided with augmented expression of the mTOR pathway, a positive correlation between the DC marker ITGAX and interleukin-6, the expression of RICTOR, and CDC42. Together, this work proposes that targeting mTORC2 on DCs offers a key to hamper inflammatory responses, and this way, ameliorates the progression and severity of intestinal inflammatory diseases.
The Narrow Footprint of Ancient Balancing Selection Revealed by Heterokaryon Incompatibility Genes in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Auxier Ben , Zhang Jianhua , Marquez Francisca Reyes , Senden Kira , van den Heuvel Joost , Aanen Duur K , Snelders Eveline , Debets Alfons J M 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
In fungi, fusion between individuals leads to localized cell death, a phenomenon termed heterokaryon incompatibility. Generally, the genes responsible for this incompatibility are observed to be under balancing selection resulting from negative frequency-dependent selection. Here, we assess this phenomenon in Aspergillus fumigatus, a human pathogenic fungus with a very low level of linkage disequilibrium as well as an extremely high crossover rate. Using complementation of auxotrophic mutations as an assay for hyphal compatibility, we screened sexual progeny for compatibility to identify genes involved in this process, called het genes. In total, 5/148 (3.4%) offspring were compatible with a parent and 166/2,142 (7.7%) sibling pairs were compatible, consistent with several segregating incompatibility loci. Genetic mapping identified five loci, four of which could be fine mapped to individual genes, of which we tested three through heterologous expression, confirming their causal relationship. Consistent with long-term balancing selection, trans-species polymorphisms were apparent across several sister species, as well as equal allele frequencies within A. fumigatus. Surprisingly, a sliding window genome-wide population-level analysis of an independent dataset did not show increased Tajima's D near these loci, in contrast to what is often found surrounding loci under balancing selection. Using available de novo assemblies, we show that these balanced polymorphisms are restricted to several hundred base pairs flanking the coding sequence. In addition to identifying the first het genes in an Aspergillus species, this work highlights the interaction of long-term balancing selection with rapid linkage disequilibrium decay.
The cancer caregiving burden trajectory over time: varying experiences of perceived versus objectively measured burden
Authors: Siminoff Laura A , Wilson-Genderson Maureen , Chwistek Marcin , Thomson Maria 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The objective of this study was to comprehensively understand the burden experienced by caregivers (CGs) providing home-based, end-of-life care to patients with cancer. We examined the relationship between objective and subjective burden including whether and how burden changes over time.

Methods
A case series of terminal cancer patient-caregiver dyads (n = 223) were recruited from oncology clinics and followed for 12 months or until patient death. Data were collected every other week and in-person from CGs in their homes using quantitative surveys, diaries, and monthly structured observations.

Results
Bivariate correlations revealed a significant association between subjective burden and activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), high-intensity tasks, and time spent on ADLs; these correlations varied over time. Models examining the slope of subjective burden revealed little systematic change; spouse caregiver and patient functional limitations were positively, and Black caregiver was negatively associated with subjective burden. Generally, the slopes for measures of objective burden were significant and positive. Models showed subjective burden was positively associated with most measures of objective burden both within caregiver (concurrent measures were positively associated) and between CGs (those with higher subjective also had higher objective).

Conclusions
Cancer caregiving is dynamic; CGs must adjust to the progression of the patient’s disease. We found an association between subjective and objective burden both within and between CGs. Black CGs were more likely to report lower subjective burden compared to their White counterparts. More detailed investigation of the sociocultural components that affect caregiver experience of burden is needed to better understand how and where to best intervene with targeted supportive care services.
Nonpecuniary Benefits: Evidence from the Location of Private Company Sales
Authors: Jansen Mark , Winegar Adam 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This paper investigates whether acquisition prices reflect a specific set of nonpecuniary benefits preferred by entrepreneurs: the quality of life (QOL) associated with the business location. Using data on private firm acquisitions, we find that target firms in high-QOL cities sell for a 14% to 20% premium. Traditional financial factors do not explain this premium, which dissipates when the buyer is unlikely to have preferences for high-QOL locations. Using wage-to-housing cost differentials to decompose local amenities and data on migration patterns, we find that QOL amenities have a greater impact on entrepreneurs’ location decisions relative to wage workers. (JEL G02, G32, G34, J32, L26, R39)
Received: 27 February 2022; Editorial decision: 29 January 2024 Editor: Camelia Kuhnen Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Efficacy of gonadal shielding in dose reduction for female pelvic radiography
Authors: Nozoe Saki , Terazaki Kei , Sasaki Makoto , Nakata Manabu 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the dose reduction using gonad shielding (GS) during pelvic imaging. Three types of pelvic images (radiography, magnetic resonance and computed tomography) were fused to elucidate the three-dimensional relationship between the position of ovaries and GS. To estimate the dose received by the ovaries, the off-axis dose at any given depth was measured under two different imaging conditions using thermoluminescence dosemeters and a polymethyl methacrylate phantom. The mean ovarian depth was 8.4 cm. The mean estimated ovarian dose without an additional filter was 0.36 mGy without GS and 0.14 mGy with GS. The mean estimated ovarian dose with an additional filter was 0.24 mGy without GS and 0.10 mGy with GS. The efficacy of ovarian dose reduction should be evaluated based on the achieved ovarian dose, considering the ovarian depth and use of additional filtration, rather than the ovarian protection rate of GS.
Analysis of spatial and demographic factors associated with chikungunya in Espírito Santo state, Brazil
Authors: Clipes Marcus Vinicius Salvador , Vicente Creuza Rachel , Cardoso da Silva Theresa Cristina , Resende Lilyan Correia , Cerutti Junior Crispim 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Chikungunya (CHIK) emerged in Brazil in 2014 and since then several epidemics have been observed. This study aims to describe the spatial, social and demographic characteristics of individuals affected by CHIK in Espírito Santo state.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed using data from individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of CHIK in Espírito Santo state, Brazil, from 2018 to 2020. Monthly incidence was calculated and annual spatial distribution maps were constructed. Statistical analysis using the χ2 test identified associations between disease occurrence and sociodemographic variables.

Results
In the period and area analysed, a CHIK epidemic occurred in 2020, with an incidence of 219.8 cases per 100 000 inhabitants. The southern and central regions of Espirito Santo state harboured a risk five times greater than the others in the epidemic region. Females (odds ratio [OR] 1.65 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.58 to 1.72]), black people (OR 1.22 [95% CI 1.13 to 1.33]), individuals with ≤11 y of education (OR 1.48 [95% CI 1.37 to 1.61]) and the elderly (OR 7.49 [95% CI 6.53 to 8.59]) had a greater risk for the disease.

Conclusions
CHIK stands as an emerging public health problem in Brazil since its introduction in 2014. Espírito Santo suffered a substantial epidemic in 2020, possibly due to outbreaks in neighbouring states. The population at risk should be prioritized in healthcare, considering the morbidity potential of the disease.
Repeated sprint training in hypoxia induces specific skeletal muscle adaptations through S100A protein signaling
Authors: Lanfranchi Clément , Willis Sarah J. , Laramée Louis , Conde Alonso Sonia , Pialoux Vincent , Kayser Bengt , Place Nicolas , Millet Grégoire P. , Zanou Nadège 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAthletes increasingly engage in repeated sprint training consisting in repeated short all‐out efforts interspersed by short recoveries. When performed in hypoxia (RSH), it may lead to greater training effects than in normoxia (RSN); however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed at elucidating the effects of RSH on skeletal muscle metabolic adaptations as compared to RSN. Sixteen healthy young men performed nine repeated sprint training sessions in either normoxia (FIO2 = 0.209, RSN, n = 7) or normobaric hypoxia (FIO2 = 0.136, RSH, n = 9). Before and after the training period, exercise performance was assessed by using repeated sprint ability (RSA) and Wingate tests. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were performed to investigate muscle metabolic adaptations using proteomics combined with western blot analysis. Similar improvements were observed in RSA and Wingate tests in both RSN and RSH groups. At the muscle level, RSN and RSH reduced oxidative phosphorylation protein content but triggered an increase in mitochondrial biogenesis proteins. Proteomics showed an increase in several S100A family proteins in the RSH group, among which S100A13 most strongly. We confirmed a significant increase in S100A13 protein by western blot in RSH, which was associated with increased Akt phosphorylation and its downstream targets regulating protein synthesis. Altogether our data indicate that RSH may activate an S100A/Akt pathway to trigger specific adaptations as compared to RSN.
The effects of resistance training on denervated myofibers, senescent cells, and associated protein markers in middle‐aged adults
Authors: Ruple Bradley A. , Mattingly Madison L. , Godwin Joshua S. , McIntosh Mason C. , Kontos Nicholas J. , Agyin‐Birikorang Anthony , Michel J. Max , Plotkin Daniel L. , Chen Shao‐Yung , Ziegenfuss Tim N. , Fruge Andrew D. , Gladden L. Bruce , Robinson Austin T. , Mobley C. Brooks , Mackey Abigail L. , Roberts Michael D. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractDenervated myofibers and senescent cells are hallmarks of skeletal muscle aging. However, sparse research has examined how resistance training affects these outcomes. We investigated the effects of unilateral leg extensor resistance training (2 days/week for 8 weeks) on denervated myofibers, senescent cells, and associated protein markers in apparently healthy middle‐aged participants (MA, 55 ± 8 years old, 17 females, 9 males). We obtained dual‐leg vastus lateralis (VL) muscle cross‐sectional area (mCSA), VL biopsies, and strength assessments before and after training. Fiber cross‐sectional area (fCSA), satellite cells (Pax7+), denervated myofibers (NCAM+), senescent cells (p16+ or p21+), proteins associated with denervation and senescence, and senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) proteins were analyzed from biopsy specimens. Leg extensor peak torque increased after training (p < .001), while VL mCSA trended upward (interaction p = .082). No significant changes were observed for Type I/II fCSAs, NCAM+ myofibers, or senescent (p16+ or p21+) cells, albeit satellite cells increased after training (p = .037). While >90% satellite cells were not p16+ or p21+, most p16+ and p21+ cells were Pax7+ (>90% on average). Training altered 13 out of 46 proteins related to muscle–nerve communication (all upregulated, p < .05) and 10 out of 19 proteins related to cellular senescence (9 upregulated, p < .05). Only 1 out of 17 SASP protein increased with training (IGFBP‐3, p = .031). In conclusion, resistance training upregulates proteins associated with muscle–nerve communication in MA participants but does not alter NCAM+ myofibers. Moreover, while training increased senescence‐related proteins, this coincided with an increase in satellite cells but not alterations in senescent cell content or SASP proteins. These latter findings suggest shorter term resistance training is an unlikely inducer of cellular senescence in apparently healthy middle‐aged participants. However, similar study designs are needed in older and diseased populations before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
A Comparison of 2 Cage Sizes in Biportal Endoscopic Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Kim Ju-Eun , Kim Hyunwoo , Park Eugene J. , Park Daniel K. 
Published: April 2024

Study Design:
Retrospective study.

Objective:
This study compared the fusion and subsidence rate and clinical outcomes when using different-sized static PEEK cages in BE-TLIF.

Summary of Background Data:
Biportal endoscopic techniques for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (BE-TLIF) have been shown to have similar clinical and fusion outcomes with faster clinical recovery in comparison to tubular surgery. Subsidence of the interbody, however, could be a complication.

Methods:
Patients who underwent 1 or 2 level BE-TLIF for degenerative and isthmic spondylolisthesis between January 2019 and January 2022 were included. A 32×10 mm cage (group A) and a 40×15 mm cage (group B) were compared. The visual analog scale (VAS) for back and leg symptoms, and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were collected. Plain radiographs and computed tomography assessed fusion and subsidence at a minimum of 12 months.

Results:
Of the 69 enrolled patients, 39 group A patients (51 levels) and 30 group B patients (32 levels) were compared. The operation time per level was 123 ± 15.8 and 138 ± 10.5 minutes per fusion level in groups A and B, respectively (P < 0.05). ODI improved from 64.8 ± 6.2 to 15.7 ± 7.1 in group A and from 65.3 ± 5.6 to 15.1 ± 6.3 in group B at the final follow-up (P < 0.05). VAS leg and back score improvement between the groups did not differ; however, the 3-month postoperative VAS back improvement was significantly higher in group B. The final fusion rate at the final follow-up did not significantly differ; however, the fusion ratio at 1 year was higher in group B (P < 0.05). Subsidence occurred in 5 cases (9.8%) in group A and none in group B (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
BE-TLIF using a larger cage can be performed safely with similar patient-reported outcome measures with a faster fusion rate with less subsidence risk.

Level of Study:
III
Genetic aortopathies: a case-based approach to multidisciplinary program development
Authors: Jordan Christopher P. , Berthold Akos , Bonomo Jason 
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review
The incorporation of genetic counseling and testing is essential to evaluation and management of thoracic aortic disease in patients under 60 years of age and those with family histories suspicious for heritable thoracic aortic disease and disorders associated with increased risk for acute type-A aortic dissection.

Recent findings
As many as 20% of individuals with thoracic aortic disease under the age of 60 years have autosomal dominant patterns of inheritance. A considerable number of heritability factors remain undefined for these families.

Summary
Genetic aortopathy programs require a collaborative approach including cardiovascular specialists and surgeons, medical geneticists, genetic counselors, and allied healthcare professionals. Comprehensive evaluation and management of these patients includes collection of detailed phenotypic data to inform the broader community and identify new associated and causative genes of interest, genetic modifiers, and other risk factors. These programs optimize outcomes and reduce the overall burden in the population of acute aortic dissection and related comorbidities.
Effect of Corneal and Lens Eccentricity Difference on Rigid Corneal Lens Treatment in Patients With Keratoconus
Authors: Kwon Younga , Han Sang Beom , Che Song-A , Koh Kyungmin , Han So Young , Choi Chul Young , Lee Yong Woo 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To evaluate the effects of rigid corneal lenses (RCL) in patients with keratoconus, based on eccentricity.

Methods:
Eighty-four eyes from 84 patients were included in this retrospective comparative study. Based on the median value of eccentricity difference between the cornea and back surface of the RCL, the patients were divided into groups 1 (<0.08) and 2 (≥0.08). Visual acuity, refractive index, and corneal topography indices were compared before and three months after lens use.

Results:
Visual acuity, astigmatism, refractive error, corneal curvature, and corneal thickness improved significantly in both groups. Apical power and anterior elevation improved significantly in group 1, with small differences in eccentricity, but not in group 2. Changes in apical power before and after lens use were significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion:
The RCL was effective for the cornea of keratoconus, especially when the prescription was made with a small difference in eccentricity.
Outcomes of Referrals in Pediatric Patients With Peripheral Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Six Kathryn A. , Aban Inmaculada B. , Daniels Gabriel M. , Wolfson Julie , Beierle Elizabeth A. , Kutny Matthew A. , Lebensburger Jeffrey , Xavier Ana C. 
Published: April 2024

Lymphadenopathy is a common reason for referral to a subspecialist, which may result in significant anxiety for parents. Understanding which patients require a subspecialty referral for lymphadenopathy is key to streamlining health care utilization for this common clinical entity. This is an IRB-approved retrospective study examining pediatric patients consecutively referred to pediatric hematology oncology, otolaryngology, or surgery for lymphadenopathy from 2012 to 2021 at a free-standing tertiary-care children’s hospital. Logistic regression was fitted to examine the association between the maximum size of the lymph nodes (LN) and a diagnosis of malignancy. The odds ratio, area under the receiver operator curve, sensitivity, and specificity were estimated. We found a significant association between LN size and cancer diagnosis. For every centimeter increase in the maximal dimension of LN, there was an estimated 2.3 times increase in the odds of malignancy (OR=2.3, 95% CI: 1.65-3.11; P<0.0001). The estimated area under the curve (0.84, 95% CI: 0.78-0.90) indicated that LN size correlated well with cancer diagnosis. A LN cut-off size of 2 cm resulted in an estimated sensitivity of 1.0 (95% CI: 0.87-1.00) and specificity of 0.54 (95% CI: 0.46-0.61). Maximum LN size may be a predictor of malignancy among pediatric patients with lymphadenopathy.
Pilot evaluation of a digital approach to occupational therapy home assessments: acceptability and efficiency compared with usual practice in a hospital
Authors: Spalding Kaitlyn , Watson Kylie , Tornatore Giovanna , Laracy Sue , Doig Emmah 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Pre-discharge home assessments by occupational therapists facilitate safe and timely discharge from hospital and are associated with better health outcomes. Digital technology offers the potential to reduce duplication of documentation and improve communication and sharing of home assessment findings.

Objective:
This quality improvement project evaluated time-cost; clinician satisfaction and confidence; and acceptability of the use of a digital approach to home assessments.

Methods:
A prospective, cross-sectional design was used to compare usual practice with the digital approach across two sub-acute wards in a large metropolitan hospital in Queensland, Australia. Time to document and conduct home assessments as well as clinician satisfaction and confidence were compared using descriptive statistics. Clinician perspectives about the home assessment approaches were collected through a survey and analyzed using content analysis.

Results:
Home assessment and documentation time were significantly lower for the home assessments conducted using the digital approach compared with usual practice assessments. Clinician satisfaction with using digital technology was higher.

Conclusions:
The introduction of this simple technology reduced clinicians’ time to conduct home assessments and document home assessment reports. The project was well received by occupational therapy clinicians.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A187
Comprehensive analysis across mammalian tissues and cells decipher the underlying mechanism of m6A specificity
Authors: Chai Guo-Shi , Chen Hong-Xuan , Ma Dong-Zhao , Ren Ze-Hui , Liu Xue-Hong , Luo Guan-Zheng 
Published: April 2024

AbstractN6-methyladenine (m6A) stands out as the most prevalent internal chemical modification on mammalian mRNA, playing a vital role in diverse biological processes. Despite considerable advancements in individual cell line studies, the characteristics of m6A sites across distinct cell lines or tissues remain elusive. In this study, we have successfully identified approximately 1.5 million high-confidence m6A sites in human and mouse cell lines or tissues using published m6A-seq data. By categorizing m6A sites into different consistency levels, we observe that those of high consistency are notably enriched near the stop codon. Furthermore, they exhibit a higher likelihood of interaction with known m6A binding proteins such as YTHDF1-3, RBM15, YTHDC1, and IGF2BP1, thereby influencing gene expression homeostasis. Additionally, these sites display a higher CpG density in the promoter region of the genes they mark, with METTL3 demonstrating a preference for binding to the promoter region of its marked genes. m6A sites of low consistency levels, including unique m6A sites, show a significant enrichment near the start codon. These sites are more prone to binding by newly discovered m6A-binding proteins such as DDX3X, PRPF8, and EIF3G. The identification of these distinct features of m6A sites lays a foundational understanding for unraveling the functional roles of m6A.