bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bidirectional relationship between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and serum creatinine‐to‐body weight ratio as a proxy for skeletal muscle mass index
Authors: Tong Chao , Halengbieke Aheyeerke , Ni Xuetong , Han Yumei , Tao Lixin , Zheng Deqiang , Li Qiang , Yang Xinghua 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackground and AimAlthough an association between skeletal muscle mass index and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has previously been demonstrated, the causal direction remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the directional association between NAFLD and the serum creatinine‐to‐body weight ratio (sCr/bw), a surrogate marker of the muscle mass index, using longitudinal data.MethodsWe recruited 9662 participants in 2017 and performed follow‐up over 4 years. We evaluated whether sCr/bw was related to NAFLD development (Analysis I) and whether NAFLD was associated with a low sCr/bw incidence (Analysis II) using logistic regression models. Furthermore, a random intercept cross‐lagged panel model was applied to evaluate the bidirectional association between sCr/bw ratio and NAFLD (Analysis III).ResultsAnalysis I demonstrated an association between sCr/bw and incident NAFLD (odds ratio [OR] = 0.160, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.107–0.232). Analysis II indicated a relationship between NAFLD and subsequent low sCr/bw ratio (OR = 1.524, 95% CI: 1.258–1.846). Analysis III indicated that the standard regression coefficient from sCr/bw to subsequent hepatic steatosis (HS) was −0.053 for βsCr/bw2017 → HS2019 and −0.060 for βsCr/bw2019 → HS2021 and the coefficient from HS to subsequent sCr/bw was −0.093 for βHS2017 → sCr/bw2019 and −0.112 for βHS2019 → sCr/bw2021 (all P < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study indicated mutual causality between sCr/bw and NAFLD. Considering that sCr/bw is a surrogate marker of muscle mass index, the findings emphasize that NAFLD and low muscle mass form a vicious cycle, which should be taken seriously in clinical practice.
Sarcoma care in the era of precision medicine
Authors: Wallander Karin , Öfverholm Ingegerd , Boye Kjetil , Tsagkozis Panagiotis , Papakonstantinou Andri , Lin Yingbo , Haglund de Flon Felix 
Published: August 2023

AbstractSarcoma subtype classification is currently mainly based upon histopathological morphology. Molecular analyses have emerged as an efficient addition to the diagnostic workup and sarcoma care. Knowledge about the sarcoma genome increases, and genetic events that can either support a histopathological diagnosis or suggest a differential diagnosis are identified, as well as novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we present diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic molecular markers that are, or might soon be, used clinically. For sarcoma diagnostics, there are specific fusions highly supportive or pathognomonic for a diagnostic entity—for instance, SYT::SSX in synovial sarcoma. Complex karyotypes also give diagnostic information—for example, supporting dedifferentiation rather than low‐grade central osteosarcoma or well‐differentiated liposarcoma when detected in combination with MDM2/CDK4 amplification. Molecular treatment predictive sarcoma markers are available for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) and locally aggressive benign mesenchymal tumors. The molecular prognostic markers for sarcomas in clinical practice are few. For solitary fibrous tumor, the type of NAB2::STAT6 fusion is associated with the outcome, and the KIT/PDGFRA pathogenic variant in GISTs can give prognostic information. With the exploding availability of sequencing technologies, it becomes increasingly important to understand the strengths and limitations of those methods and their context in sarcoma diagnostics. It is reasonable to believe that most sarcoma treatment centers will increase the use of massive‐parallel sequencing soon. We conclude that the context in which the genetic findings are interpreted is of importance, and the interpretation of genomic findings requires considering tumor histomorphology.
Proliferative effect of cannabidiol in human gingival fibroblasts via the mitogen‐activated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (MEK) 1/2
Authors: Montreekachon Pattanin , Chaichana Nopphanai , Makeudom Anupong , Kerdvongbundit Varunee , Krisanaprakornkit Warisara , Krisanaprakornkit Suttichai 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesCannabidiol exerts its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant activities in various human cells. However, its proliferative effect has not been extrapolated to human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). This study aimed to determine the proliferative and promigratory effects of cannabidiol in HGFs and to elucidate the signaling mechanism(s).Materials and MethodsHGFs, characterized by their CD73, CD90, and CD105 expressions by flow cytometry, were treated with cannabidiol at 0.01–30 μM. The cytotoxicity was determined by the MTT assay, while the proliferative effect was examined by the BrdU assay, immunoblot and immunofluorescence for cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 expressions, respectively, and cell cycle analysis. The promigratory effect of cannabidiol was investigated by a wound healing assay. Phosphorylation of the p38 MAPK, JNK, and ERK upon treatment with cannabidiol was explored, and their involvement in cell proliferation and cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 expressions was studied using pharmacological inhibitors.ResultsNo toxicity was found in HGFs treated with any doses of cannabidiol up to 30 μM. The mean percentage of cell proliferation was significantly enhanced by treatment with cannabidiol at 3 or 10 μM (p < .001), consistent with upregulated expressions of cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 and increased percentages of HGFs in the S and G2/M phases. Moreover, treatment with cannabidiol significantly induced cell migration (p < .05). The p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 were significantly activated by cannabidiol (p < .05), but only pretreatment with UO126, a MEK1/2 inhibitor, significantly inhibited cell proliferation and cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 expressions (p < .05).ConclusionTreatment with cannabidiol at non‐toxic doses promotes HGFs' proliferation and migration.
Bsep/Abcb11 knockout ameliorates Schistosoma mansoni liver pathology by reducing parasite fecundity
Authors: Macháček Tomáš , Fuchs Claudia D. , Winkelmann Franziska , Frank Marcus , Scharnagl Hubert , Stojakovic Tatjana , Sombetzki Martina , Trauner Michael 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackground and AimsSchistosoma mansoni infection is one of the worldwide leading causes of liver fibrosis and portal hypertension. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether polyhydroxylated bile acids (BAs), known to protect mice from the development of acquired cholestatic liver injury, counteract S. mansoni‐induced inflammation and fibrosis.MethodsAdult FVB/N wild type (WT) and Abcb11/Bsep−/− mice were infected with either 25 or 50 S. mansoni cercariae. Eight weeks post infection, effects on liver histology, serum biochemistry, gene expression profile of proinflammatory cytokines and fibrotic markers, hepatic hydroxyproline content and FACS analysis were performed.ResultsBsep−/− mice infected with S. mansoni showed significantly less hepatic inflammation and tendentially less fibrosis compared to infected WT mice. Despite elevated alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels in infected Bsep−/− mice, inflammatory cells such as M2 macrophages and Mac‐2/galectin‐3+ cells were reduced in these animals. Accordingly, mRNA‐expression levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐4 and IL‐13) were increased in Bsep−/− mice upon infection. Furthermore, infected Bsep−/− mice exhibited decreased hepatic egg load and parasite fecundity, consequently affecting the worm reproduction rate. This outcome could arise from elevated serum BA levels and lower blood pH in Bsep−/− mice.ConclusionsThe loss of Bsep and the resulting changes in bile acid composition and blood pH are associated with the reduction of parasite fecundity, thus attenuating the development of S. mansoni‐induced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis.
Metabolic control and quality of life in type 1 diabetes: Do adherence, family support, and school support matter?
Authors: Almeida Ana C. , Tavares Fabiana , Pereira M. Graça 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThis study analyzed the relationship between clinical and demographic variables, family support, school support, and adherence on adolescents' metabolic control and quality of life (QoL) based on Adaptation to Chronic Disease in Childhood's model. The sample included 100 adolescents and 100 parents. Adolescents were assessed on adherence, family support, school support, and QoL. Parents were assessed on family functioning and parental coping. A path analysis was performed to assess the adequacy of the theoretical model to the sample. Daily glycemic monitoring was associated with better metabolic control and diabetes hospitalizations with worse metabolic control. The final model showed adherence, family support, school support, and family functioning having an indirect effect on the relationship between adolescence stage, number of daily glycemic monitorings, number of hospitalizations, and metabolic control/QoL. Adherence had an indirect effect on the relationship between glycemic monitoring and family and school support, suggesting that adolescents need both types of support to perform diabetes self‐care tasks. QoL showed a direct effect on metabolic control revealing the importance of QoL in the design of interventions to promote metabolic control in adolescents.
Exemplarity and reflexivity in literature: Towards an elucidation of the knowledge embedded in the literary text
Authors: Jensen Julio 
Published: August 2023

AbstractThe question of the relation between philosophy and literature is, in the present contribution, approached from the notion of reflexivity as it appears in the thinking of Herder and Gadamer. Following up on Gadamer's critique of the Kantian and post‐Kantian idea of the autonomy of art, literature is considered a reflective discourse that at an existential level harvests insights that can be used in a fruitful exchange with philosophy. As an example of the reflexivity of literature, an analysis of Julio Cortázar's short story ‘The Continuity of Parks’ appears at the end of the article.
Gaze behaviour during multiple object tracking is dependent on binocular vision integrity
Authors: Zwierko Teresa , Redondo Beatríz , Jedziniak Wojciech , Molina Ruben , Jiménez Raimundo , Vera Jesús 
Published: August 2023

AbstractIntroductionDespite the critical importance of binocular vision integrity in daily activities, there exists limited understanding of how alterations in binocular vision integrity impact gaze behaviour during dynamic, complex psychomotor skills. This study aimed to measure how alterations in binocular vision integrity, created by Bangerter filters (BF), affect gaze behaviour during multiple object tracking (MOT).MethodsDuring the experiment, 22 volunteers completed the MOT task under three different visual conditions. The first condition involved natural binocular viewing, while the second and third conditions used 0.4 and 0.2 neutral density BF, respectively, resulting in monocular blur in the sensorially dominant eye. During the MOT task, participants were instructed to track three of eight balls for 10 s, and the speed was adjusted using a staircase procedure. Throughout the task, the following gaze parameters were recorded: fixation duration, saccade duration, amplitude and frequency as well as blink rate.ResultsDuring MOT execution, participants employed three gaze strategies regardless of viewing conditions: saccadic movements were predominant, followed by maintaining fixation on a central location throughout the trial and to a lesser extent, smooth pursuit eye movements. There was a significant effect of manipulating viewing conditions on the MOT scores (p = 0.046, η2 = 0.09). As the viewing conditions became more difficult, we observed a decrease in fixation duration (p = 0.004, η2 = 0.16) and blink rate (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.20) and an increase in saccadic amplitude (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.29).ConclusionsThe results support the notion that perceptual‐cognitive skills depend on the integrity of binocular vision, underscoring the sensitivity of gaze behaviours to any impairment of binocular function.
Proteomics analysis to investigate the potential mechanism of theacrine against UV‐induced skin photodamage
Authors: He Yong , Zheng Xinkai , Hu Yunfeng , Deng Liehua , Xu Jin , Wu Shi 
Published: August 2023

AbstractAimThis study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of theacrine treatment of UV‐induced skin photodamage.Materials and MethodsTandem Mass Tag (TMT) relative quantitative proteomics analysis was used to characterize the proteins and pathways associated with the ability of theacrine to combat photodamage in mouse skin by modeling UV irradiation of the backs of ICR mice.ResultsApoptosis‐related proteins and signaling pathways play a key role in the ability of theacrine to protect against skin photodamage, according to proteomic and bioinformatics analysis; molecular docking and Western blotting further revealed that theacrine was associated with apoptosis‐related proteins (p53, Bcl‐2, Bax, caspase‐3, and cleaved‐caspase‐3) with strong binding affinity, which can significantly reduce skin cell apoptosis induced by UV exposure.ConclusionThe findings revealed that theacrine can reduce UVB‐induced epidermal damage by controlling the apoptosis signaling pathway, implying that theacrine could be a useful anti‐UVB damage agent.
Intergovernmental cooperation and joint purchasing agreements: Do governments free‐ride?
Authors: Madsen Morten Skov 
Published: August 2023

AbstractPublic management scholars argue that collective action problems (e.g., incentives to free‐ride on the efforts of others or shirk agreements) threaten the feasibility of intergovernmental cooperation. Drawing on collective action theory, this article examines factors associated with overcoming free‐riding incentives and provides evidence challenging the idea that governments are prone to such strategic behavior. The empirical analysis of a national Danish purchasing group demonstrates how coercion is not necessary to induce subnational governments to incur private costs to join the group and, despite opportunity and incentive to free‐ride, contribute to its production of joint purchasing agreements—collective goods whose quality depends on the staff resources and expertise the participating governments contribute to their production. Further, multivariate analyses find that governments are more likely to help produce these collective goods when they receive more of their benefits, face lower contribution costs, and receive stronger social norm pressures from peers.
Effect of red light on epidermal proliferation and mitochondrial activity
Authors: Umino Yuki , Denda Mitsuhiro 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackground/PurposeWe previously demonstrated that irradiation with red light accelerates recovery of the epidermal water‐impermeable barrier, whereas blue light delays it, and white and green light have no effect. Here, we aimed to examine in detail the effects of red and blue light in a human epidermal‐equivalent model and in human skin.MethodsWe used light‐emitting diodes (red light, 630 nm, 6.2 mW/cm2; blue light, 463 nm, 6.2 mW/cm2) for irradiation of an epidermal‐equivalent model and human skin. Cell proliferation was evaluated by means of BrdU and Ki‐67 staining, and mitochondrial activity was quantified with an extracellular flux analyzer.ResultsIrradiation of the epidermal‐equivalent model with red light for 2 h (44.64 J/cm2) increased both epidermal proliferation in the basal layer and mitochondrial activity. Blue light had no effect on epidermal proliferation. Furthermore, irradiation with red light for 2 h on three consecutive days increased epidermal proliferation in human skin tissue in culture.ConclusionThese results suggest that red light accelerates epidermal proliferation in both an epidermal‐equivalent model and human skin, and may promote epidermal homeostasis.
How do we… direct a transfusion service/blood bank with limited laboratory staff
Authors: Lu Wen , Bakhtary Sara , Oliver Louige , Stephens Laura , Tanhehco Yvette , O'Brien Kerry 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundTransfusion services and blood banks in the United States have struggled with staffing shortages for decades. Unfortunately, the COVID‐19 pandemic and other factors have exacerbated these challenges to the point of crisis for many. Meanwhile, providing quality patient care continues to demand accurate test results and safe blood products delivered in a timely fashion.Materials and MethodsA group of academic Transfusion Medicine Physicians and a Medical Laboratory Scientist from five academic medical centers in the United States met and discussed the steps we explored and took during the staffing crisis that hit during the pandemic. Our goal was to assist our colleagues and the community by detailing the strategies that helped keep us operational during the most extreme staffing shortage we have experienced to date.Results and ConclusionsWe provide both short‐term solutions to include hiring temporary and per diem technologists, consolidating testing, and sending out non–time‐sensitive testing; and long‐term strategies such as recruiting and hiring laboratory assistants, providing retention and referral bonuses, and increasing compensation. The objective is to address the staffing shortage on multiple fronts (e.g., personnel management, testing, and organization) with the objective of not compromising safety, quality, or patient care. The ultimate long‐term goal is to advocate for and build a stronger laboratory workforce for tomorrow.
HIV risk behavior profiles among men who have sex with men interested in donating blood: Findings from the Assessing Donor Variability and New Concepts in Eligibility study
Authors: Custer Brian , Whitaker Barbee I. , Pollack Lance M. , Buccheri Renata , Bruhn Roberta L. , Crowder Lauren A. , Stramer Susan L. , Reik Rita A. , Pandey Suchitra , Stone Mars , Di Germanio Clara , Buchacz Kate , Eder Anne F. , Lu Yun , Forshee Richard A. , Anderson Steven A. , Marks Peter W. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundIndividual risk assessment allows donors to be evaluated based on their own behaviors. Study objectives were to assess human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk behaviors in men who have sex with men (MSM) and estimate the proportion of the study population who would not be deferred for higher risk HIV sexual behaviors.Study Design and MethodsCross‐sectional survey and biomarker assessment were conducted in eight U.S. cities. Participants were sexually active MSM interested in blood donation aged 18–39 years, assigned male sex at birth. Participants completed surveys during two study visits to define eligibility, and self‐reported sexual and HIV prevention behaviors. Blood was drawn at study visit 1 and tested for HIV and the presence of tenofovir, one of the drugs in oral HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Associations were assessed between HIV infection status or HIV PrEP use and behaviors, including sex partners, new partners, and anal sex.ResultsA total of 1566 MSM completed the visit 1 questionnaire and blood draw and 1197 completed the visit 2 questionnaire. Among 1562 persons without HIV, 789 (50.4%) were not taking PrEP. Of those not taking PrEP, 66.2% reported one sexual partner or no anal sex and 69% reported no new sexual partners or no anal sex with a new partner in the past 3 months.ConclusionThe study found that questions were able to identify sexually active, HIV‐negative MSM who report lower risk sexual behaviors. About a quarter of enrolled study participants would be potentially eligible blood donors using individual risk assessment questions.
Is polycystic ovary syndrome associated with elevated muscle sympathetic nerve activity?
Authors: Duval Alicia , Huckins Will , Berbrier Danielle E. , Usselman Charlotte W. 
Published: August 2023

AbstractPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder characterized by reproductive abnormalities, cardiometabolic disturbances and a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease. A small but compelling body of research demonstrates that females with PCOS present with elevated muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) at rest. Heightened MSNA is present in lean, overweight and obese females with PCOS, but limited evidence suggests that androgens may be more strongly linked to elevated MSNA in lean females with PCOS than in obese females with PCOS. Although the specific mechanisms underlying elevated MSNA in PCOS remain elusive, sympathetic activation is implicated in the progression of several cardiovascular diseases and may contribute to the cardiovascular pathophysiology of PCOS. Encouragingly, MSNA appears responsive to non‐pharmacological intervention, making the sympathetic nervous system a promising therapeutic target to mitigate cardiovascular risk in PCOS. This brief review summarizes the existing evidence regarding elevated MSNA, cardiovascular risk profile and vascular function, as well as the potential for clinical intervention and future research directions in females with PCOS.
Gestational intermittent hypoxia increases FosB‐immunoreactive perikaryas in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus of adult male (but not female) rats
Authors: Ambrozio‐Marques Danuzia , Gagnon Marianne , Radcliff Abigail B. , Meza Armand L. , Baker Tracy L. , Watters Jyoti J. , Kinkead Richard 
Published: August 2023

AbstractSleep‐disordered breathing is a respiratory disorder commonly experienced by pregnant women. The recurrent hypoxaemic events associated with sleep‐disordered breathing have deleterious consequences for the mother and fetus. Adult male (but not female) rats born to dams subjected to gestational intermittent hypoxia (GIH) have a higher resting blood pressure than control animals and show behavioural/neurodevelopmental disorders. The origin of this persistent, sex‐specific effect of GIH in offspring is unknown, but disruption of the neuroendocrine stress pathways is a key mechanism by which gestational stress increases disease risk in progeny. Using FosB immunolabelling as a chronic marker of neuronal activation, we determined whether GIH augments basal expression of FosB in the perikaryas of cells in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), a key structure in the regulation of the stress response and blood pressure. From gestational day 10, female rats were subjected to GIH for 8 h/day (light phase) until the day before delivery (gestational day 21); GIH consisted of 2 min hypoxic bouts (10.5% O2) alternating with normoxia. Control rats were exposed to intermittent normoxia over the same period (GNX). At adulthood (10–15 weeks), the brains of male and female rats were harvested for FosB immunohistochemistry. In males, GIH augmented PVN FosB labelling density by 30%. Conversely, PVN FosB density in GIH females was 28% lower than that of GNX females. We conclude that GIH has persistent and sex‐specific impacts on the development of stress pathways, thereby offering a plausible mechanism by which GIH can disturb neural development and blood pressure homeostasis in adulthood.