bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Risk of Steroid-Induced Ocular Hypertension/Glaucoma With Topical Prednisolone Acetate 1% After Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Price Marianne O. , Price David A. , Price Francis W. 
Published: May 2023

Purpose:
The aim of this study was to assess the long-term risk of steroid-induced ocular hypertension and the need for glaucoma treatment with long-term use of topical prednisolone acetate 1% in patients without preexisting glaucoma.

Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 211 patients without previous glaucoma, who underwent Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) and used topical prednisolone acetate long-term to prevent graft rejection. Dosing was 4 times daily for 4 months and tapered to once daily. The main outcomes were ocular hypertension (defined as intraocular pressure ≥24 mm Hg, or increase of ≥10 mm Hg over baseline) and initiation of glaucoma treatment.

Results:
The median patient age was 70 years (range: 34–94 years). The indications for DSEK were Fuchs dystrophy (88%), pseudophakic corneal edema (7%), failed DSEK (3%), and failed penetrating keratoplasty (2%). The median follow-up period was 7 years (range, 1–17 years). At 1, 5, and 10 years, the cumulative risks of steroid-induced ocular hypertension were 29%, 41%, and 49%, respectively, and the risks of requiring glaucoma treatment were 11%, 17%, and 25%, respectively. Among 35 eyes treated for glaucoma, 28 (80%) were managed medically and 7 (20%) had filtration surgery.

Conclusions:
Long-term use of potent topical corticosteroids, such as prednisolone acetate 1%, entails substantial risk of developing steroid-induced ocular hypertension, so frequent monitoring of intraocular pressure is required. With corneal transplantation, the risk can be mitigated by using techniques with a low inherent risk of rejection, such as Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty, whenever possible, to allow earlier reduction of steroid potency.
Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training Versus Moderate-Intensity Interval Training
Authors: Sánchez-Polo Andrés , De-Llano Elisa , Gómez-Conesa Antonia 
Published: May 2023

Background
Excess weight and obesity are related to cardiometabolic diseases and limit physical activity. Until now, the effects of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) compared with moderate-intensity interval training (MIIT) in Spanish obese adults have not been analyzed.

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the effect of MICT and MIIT together with a 1300-to-1400 caloric restrictive diet on cardiovascular disease risk factors in overweight and obese patients.

Methods
The MICT and MIIT groups trained during 4 sessions a week for 12 weeks while performing the diet. The MICT group trained for 32 minutes per session in a cycloergometer, initially at 60% maximal oxygen uptake during the first month and increasing by 10% every 4 weeks. The MIIT group performed 4 × 4 intervals (at 60% maximal oxygen uptake and active rest at 60% maximal oxygen uptake minus 20 W), with a 10% increase every 4 weeks. The control group neither trained nor followed the restrictive diet.

Results
One hundred fifty-nine obese adults participated in the study. The control group did not present any significant changes during the study. The MICT group significantly improved in all the variables (P < .05) except for high-density lipoproteins. The MIIT group improved in all the variables (P < .05) except for high-density lipoproteins and triglycerides. The MIIT group lost weight in less time than the MICT group.

Conclusions
Overweight and obese adults of both the MICT and MIIT groups decreased their risk for cardiovascular disease, although the MIIT group lost weight in a shorter amount of time.
Development and Evaluation of a Digital HIV Risk Assessment Tool Incorporated Within an App-Based Self-Testing Program
Authors: Leung Soo Cindy , Bhatnagar Sahir , Bartlett Susan J. , Esmail Aliasgar , Dheda Keertan , Pant Pai Nitika 
Published: May 2023

Background:
Low-risk perception is an important barrier to the utilization of HIV services. In this context, offering an online platform for people to assess their risk of HIV and inform their decision to test can be impactful in increasing testing uptake. Using secondary data from the HIVSmart! quasirandomized trial, we aimed to identify predictors of HIV, develop a risk staging model for South African township populations, and validate it in combination with the HIVSmart! digital self-testing program.

Setting:
Townships in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods:
Using Bayesian predictive projection, we identified predictors of HIV and constructed a risk assessment model that we validated in external data.

Results:
Our analyses included 3095 participants from the HIVSmart! trial. We identified a model of 5 predictors (being unmarried, HIV testing history, having had sex with a partner living with HIV, dwelling situation, and education) that performed best during external validation (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 89% credible intervals: 0.71, 0.68 to 0.72). The sensitivity of our HIV risk staging model was 91.0% (89.1% to 92.7%) and the specificity was 13.2% (8.5% to 19.8%) but increased when combined with a digital HIV self-testing program, the specificity was 91.6% (95.9% to 96.4%) and sensitivity remained similar at 90.9% (89.1% to 92.6%).

Conclusions:
This is the first validated digital HIV risk assessment tool developed for South African township populations and the first study to evaluate the added value of a risk assessment tool with an app-based HIV self-testing program. Study findings are relevant for application of digital programs to improve utilization of HIV testing services.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 is a strong independent marker of worse cardiovascular outcomes after an acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Kallmeyer Andrea , Pello Ana , Cánovas Ester , Aceña Álvaro , González-Casaus María Luisa , Tarín Nieves , Cristóbal Carmen , Gutiérrez-Landaluce Carlos , Huelmos Ana , Rodríguez-Valer Aida , González-Lorenzo Óscar , Alonso Joaquín , López-Bescós Lorenzo , Egido Jesús , Mahillo Ignacio , Lorenzo Óscar , Tuñón José 
Published: May 2023

ABSTRACTBackground and aimsThis study aimed to assess the role of plasmatic fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) as a prognostic marker after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS).MethodsThis prospective and multicentric study included 1,190 patients with ACS. FGF23 plasma levels and other components of mineral metabolism (calcidiol, parathormone [PTH], klotho, and phosphate), lipids, troponin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were measured at discharge. The primary outcome was a combination of acute ischemic events, heart failure (HF) and death. Secondary outcomes were the separate components of the primary outcome.ResultsMedian follow-up was 5.44 (3.03-7.46) years. 294 patients developed the primary outcome. Patients with FGF23 levels below the median were predominantly males, younger, and with lower load of cardiovascular risk factors. Calcidiol and PTH levels were lower among them. Multivariable analysis showed that FGF23 (HR 1.18 [1.08-1.29], p<0.001), calcidiol (HR 0.86 [0.74-1.00], p=0.046), previous CAD or cerebrovascular accidents, and hypertension were independent predictors of the primary outcome. The predictive power of FGF23 was homogeneous across different subgroups of population. FGF23 resulted an independent predictor of HF (HR 1.38 [1.22-1.57], p<0.001), and death (HR 1.21 [1.07-1.37], p=0.002), but not of acute ischemic events. According to renal function, FGF-23 was an independent predictor for the primary outcome in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) above 60 ml/min/1.73m2.ConclusionsFGF23 is a strong, independent predictor of HF and death among patients with ACS. This effect is homogeneous across different subgroups of population and not limited to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
A Tape Spring Steerable Needle Capable of Sharp Turns
Authors: Abdoun Omar T. , Yim Mark 
Published: May 2023

AbstractObjectiveTo make steerable needles more effective, researchers have been trying to minimize turning radius, develop mechanics-based models, and simplify control. This paper introduces a novel cable-driven steerable needle that has a 3mm turning radius based on tape spring mechanics, which sets a new minimum turn radius in stiffness-matched tissue models. Methods: We characterize the turn radius and the forces that affect control and performance and create predictive models to estimate required insertion forces and maximum insertion depth. Finally, we demonstrate the performance of a task outside the capabilities of a conventional needle. Results: Minimal force is required to maintain bends, allowing surrounding tissue to fix them in place, and minimal energy is required to propagate bends, allowing the device to navigate easily through various tissue phantoms. The turn radius of the device is independent of surrounding tissue stiffness, making for simple and precise control. We show that all aspects of performance depend on minimizing the tip cutting force. Under ultrasound guidance, we successfully navigate into and then follow a deep blood vessel model at a steep angle of approach. Conclusion: This design allows the system to accurately control the direction of the device while maintaining a smaller turn radius than other steerable needles, providing the potential to broaden access to challenging targets in patients.
Reduced frequency of clonal hematopoiesis in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Sun Shixiang , Sproviero Daisy , Payán-Gómez César , Huang Zhenqiu , Hoeijmakers Jan H.J. , Maslov Alexander Y. , Mastroberardino Pier G. , Vijg Jan 
Published: May 2023

AbstractTo test if clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is associated with the incidence of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), we analyzed blood whole exome sequencing data from 181 healthy controls and 391 PD subjects in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative. We observed an age-related increase of CHIP carriers in the healthy controls. Surprisingly, the percentage of CHIP carriers was significantly lower in PD patients than in age-matched controls.
Evolutionary graph theory on rugged fitness landscapes
Authors: Kuo Yang Ping , Carja Oana 
Published: May 2023

AbstractSpatially-resolved datasets are revolutionizing knowledge in molecular biology, yet are under-utilized for questions in evolutionary biology. To gain insight from these large-scale datasets of spatial organization, we need mathematical representations and modeling techniques that can both capture their complexity, but also allow for mathematical tractability. Specifically, it is hard to link previous deme-based or lattice-based models with datasets exhibiting complex patterns of spatial organization and the role of heterogeneous population structure in shaping evolutionary dynamics is still poorly understood. Evolutionary graph theory utilizes the mathematical representation of networks as a proxy for population structure and has started to reshape our understanding of how spatial structure can direct evolutionary dynamics. However, previous results are derived for the case of a single mutation appearing in the population. Complex traits arise from interactions among multiple genes and these interaction can result in rugged fitness landscapes, where evolutionary dynamics can vastly differ from the dynamics of stepwise fixation. Here, we develop a unifying theory of how heterogenous population structure shapes evolutionary dynamics on rugged fitness landscapes. We show that even a simple extension to a two- mutational landscape can exhibit evolutionary dynamics not observed in deme-based models and that cannot be predicted using previous single-mutation results. We also show how to link these models to spatially-resolved datasets and build the networks of the stem cell niches of the bone marrow. We show that these cellular spatial architectures reduce the probability of neoplasm initiation across biologically relevant mutation rate and fitness distributions.
Association between Prevalent Flagellated Bacteria in Gut Microbiota and Cardiovascular Benefits in Humans
Authors: Yiu Jensen H. C. , Cai Jieling , Cheung Samson W. M. , Chin Karie Tsz-Ching , Chan Chi Fai , Ma Edward S.C. , Sharma Rakesh , Dorweiler Bernhard , Woo Connie W. 
Published: May 2023

AbstractBackgroundIncreasing evidence has shown associations between gut microbiota and cardiovascular risks. However, whether sex influences the cardiovascular outcome of gut microbiota remains elusive.MethodsThe gut microbiota metagenomic data from two previous population-based cohorts and the proteomics data from human liver samples were analyzed.ResultsThrough a sex-based analysis of 500 Functional Genomics Project (500FG) cohort, we found that the capacity of producing flagellin inEubacterium rectale, Roseburia IntestinalisandRoseburia inulinivoranspartially explained the levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and apolipoprotein A1 in female participants. By comparing the bacterial species showing positive correlations with HDL-C and the flagellin species found in human liver samples, we found thatE. rectaleandR. inulinivoransappeared to be the major prevalent flagellated species in gut microbiota contributed to the host’s HDL-C level. The analysis of the Chinese-based cohort in which the male participants had relatively higher abundance of these two bacteria, the abovementioned positive correlation was also observed.ConclusionsThe flagellin-producing function ofE. rectaleandR. inulinivoransin the gut microbiota partially explained the HDL-C level in the host, and there is a sex-specific difference in the sensitivity of this beneficial interaction. Our findings suggest a potential interaction between commensal bacteria and the host that yields a cardiovascular benefit.Clinical PerspectiveWhat is new?The flagellin-producing capacity of certain species in gut microbiota is positively associated with the HDL-C and ApoA1 levels in human.By comparing the flagellated bacteria in the gut and flagellin species in the liver,Eubacterium rectaleandRoseburia inulinivoransare shown to be the most prevalent species contributing to such cardiovascular benefits.The sensitivity of such beneficial interaction with the gut flagellated bacteria is different between male and female.What are the clinical implications? (maximum 100 words, formatted as 2-3 bullets)Beside the role in metabolic inflammation, gut microbiota can be beneficial against cardiovascular risk by modulating HDL-C level through certain flagellated species.The interaction between flagellated bacteria in the gut and the host provide a different insight in exploring potential therapeutic targets to increase HDL-C level.
BAG6 is a novel player in controlling nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: result from a comprehensivein-silicostudy
Authors: Sarmah Dipanka Tanu , Paul Abhijit , Berry Umang , Surjit Milan , Bairagi Nandadulal , Chatterjee Samrat 
Published: May 2023

SummaryNonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH, is a multifactorial disease characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammation, cell death, and fibrosis, and an efficacious pharmaceutical intervention for this is yet to be discovered. The present study aims to identify potential targets capable of reversing the disease-specific molecular alterations and elucidate their possible action mechanism. Our study uses combinations of different methods, such as genome-scale metabolic modelling, directional protein-protein interaction network, connectivity map, and network controllability, to identify potential targets in NASH. Our approach yielded three promising targets, BAG6, CASP3, and CYCS, and captured their effects on inflammation, fibrosis, steatosis, and apoptosis. The association of CASP3 and CYCS with NASH are already reported in the literature. So BAG6 was selected as a novel target. In the Huh-7 cell-line, its ablation reduced fatty acid accumulation and decreased levels of NASH-signature transcripts, supporting our hypothesis on BAG6 as a potential NASH target.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARTICIPATION IN DAILY LIFE ACTIVITIES AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN STROKE SURVIVORS: A PROTOCOL FOR A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSES-BASED DATA SYNTHESIS
Authors: de Diego-Alonso Cristina , Blasco-Abadía Julia , Estellez Almudena Buesa , Giner-Nicolás Rafael , López-Royo María Pilar , Roldán-Pérez Patricia , Doménech-García Víctor , Bellosta-López Pablo , Fini Natalie A 
Published: May 2023

ABSTRACTBackgroundStroke survivors undertake low levels of physical activity and participation in daily life activities, but there are no reviews on the relationship between physical activity and participation. This systematic review and meta-analyses-based data synthesis will aim to cross-sectionally and longitudinally describe and estimate the relationship between participation in daily life activities and physical activity in stroke survivors.Methods and analysisThis protocol follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Six databases (PudMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, and Rehabilitation & Sport Medicine Source) will be searched using terms grouped into three categories: stroke, physical activity, and participation in daily life activities. Observational and experimental studies assessing participation and physical activity levels in adult stroke survivors in English or Spanish will be included. The methodological quality of the studies will be assessed independently by 2 investigators, with the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Study and sample characteristics, and physical activity and participation outcome data will be extracted. Additionally, if available, repeated measures and correlation values between physical activity and participation outcomes will be extracted. The Hedges-Olkin method will be used for pooling correlation values and a random-effects meta-analysis following restricted maximum likelihood estimation for pooling effect sizes of those studies prospectively assessing the same measures of participation and physical activity. Subgroup analyses will be performed if a sufficient number of studies are found. Heterogeneity between studies results will be analyzed using I2statistics, and publication bias will be examined using funnel plots and Egger’s tests.DiscussionThis will be the first systematic review with meta-analysis-based data synthesis to provide information on the relationship between physical activity and participation in stroke survivors. Findings are likely to inform, the design of health prevention protocols and the development of healthy behavior change interventions.
Bilateral retinofugal pathfinding impairments limit behavioral compensation in near-congenital one-eyedXenopus laevis
Authors: Forsthofer Michael , Gordy Clayton , Kolluri Meghna , Straka Hans 
Published: May 2023

AbstractTo generate a coherent visual percept, information from both eyes must be appropriately transmitted into the brain, where binocular integration forms the substrate for visuomotor behaviors. To establish the anatomical substrate for binocular integration, the presence of bilateral eyes and interaction of both optic nerves during retinotectal development play a key role. However, the extent to which embryonic monocularly derived visual circuits can convey visuomotor behaviors is unknown. In this study, we assessed the retinotectal anatomy and visuomotor performance of embryonically generated one-eyed tadpoles. In one-eyed animals, the axons of retinal ganglion cells from the singular remaining eye exhibited striking irregularities in their central projections in the brain, generating a non-canonical ipsilateral retinotectal projection. This data is indicative of impaired pathfinding abilities. We further show that these novel projections are correlated with an impairment of behavioral compensation for the loss of one eye.
A digital twin of bacterial metabolism during cheese production
Authors: Lecomte Maxime , Cao Wenfan , Aubert Julie , Sherman David James , Falentin Hélène , Frioux Clémence , Labarthe Simon 
Published: May 2023

AbstractCheese organoleptic properties result from complex metabolic processes occurring in microbial communities. A deeper understanding of such mechanisms makes it possible to improve both industrial production processes and end-product quality through the design of microbial consortia. In this work, we caracterise the metabolism of a three-species community consisting ofLactococcus lactis,Lactobacillus plantarumandPropionibacterium freudenreichiiduring a seven-week cheese production process. Using genome-scale metabolic models and omics data integration, we modeled and calibrated individual dynamics using monoculture experiments, and coupled these models to capture the metabolism of the community. This digital twin accurately predicted the dynamics of the community, enlightening the contribution of each microbial species to organoleptic compound production. Further metabolic exploration raised additional possible interactions between the bacterial species. This work provides a methodological framework for the prediction of community-wide metabolism and highlights the added-value of dynamic metabolic modeling for the comprehension of fermented food processes.
An Excitatory Projection from the Basal Forebrain to the Ventral Tegmental Area Underlying Anorexia-like Phenotypes
Authors: Cai Jing , Xu Yuanzhong , Jiang Zhiying , Jiang Yanyan , Young Claire , Li Hongli , Otiz-Guzman Joshua , Zhuo Yizhou , Li Yulong , Xu Yong , Arenkiel Benjamin R. , Tong Qingchun 
Published: May 2023

AbstractAdaptation to potential threat cues in feeding regulation is key for animal survival. Maladaptation in balancing internal energy needs and external threat cues may result in eating disorders. However, brain mechanisms underlying such maladaptation remain elusive. Here, we identified that the basal forebrain (BF) sends glutamatergic projections to glutamatergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Glutamatergic neurons in both the BF and the VTA displayed correlated responses to various external stressors. Notably,in vivomanipulation of BF terminals in the VTA revealed that the glutamatergic BF➔VTA circuit reduces appetite, increases locomotion, and elicits avoidance. In consistence, activation of VTA glutamatergic neurons reduced body weight, blunted food motivation, and caused hyperactivity with behavioral signs of anxiety, all hallmarks of typical anorexia phenotypes. Importantly, activation of BF glutamatergic terminals in the VTA reduced dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Collectively, our results point to overactivation of the glutamatergic BF➔VTA circuit as a potential cause of anorexia-like phenotypes involving reduced dopamine release.