A PI3Kδ-Foxo1-FasL signaling amplification loop rewires CD4 T helper cell signaling, differentiation and epigenetic remodeling.

While inputs regulating CD4 T helper cell (Th) differentiation are well-defined, the integration of downstream signaling with transcriptional and epigenetic programs that define Th-lineage identity remain unresolved. PI3K signaling is a critical regulator of T cell function; activating mutations affecting PI3Kδ result in an immunodeficiency with multiple T cell defects. Using mice expressing activated-PI3Kδ, we found aberrant expression of proinflammatory Th1-signature genes under Th2-inducing conditions, both and .

Anti-M2-pyruvate kinase autoantibodies are correlated with digestive damage in human Chagas disease.

Background: Determining esophageal and colon involvement in patients with Chagas disease occurs through invasive and uncomfortable examinations, which in most cases are not performed. The objective of this study was to assess the involvement of anti-M2-pyruvate kinase (M2-PK) autoantibodies in the development of digestive alterations and/or in the diagnosis of the digestive form of human Chagas disease.

Methods: The total IgG and isotype (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4) production was quantified using the antigen of Trypanosoma cruzi and the human M2-PK recombinant protein via the ELISA technique.

Iniencephaly: A Challenging Prenatal Diagnosis of a Neural Tube Defect.

Iniencephaly is a rare malformation of the base of the cranium, with an almost always fatal prognosis. This condition is part of the category of defects related to neural tube closure. Prenatal diagnosis can now be performed through ultrasound evaluation, allowing timely counseling.

Aerodigestive Approach in Evaluating Pediatric Patients With Recurrent Croup.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of coordinated endoscopy with otolaryngology, pulmonology, and gastroenterology in diagnosing and managing recurrent croup in pediatric patients.

Methods: We reviewed our REDCap Pediatric Aerodigestive Database for patients with recurrent croup who underwent coordinated endoscopy between January 2013 and July 2023. We reviewed patient demographics, comorbidities, surgical findings, treatments, and outcomes.

Bona fide diminished ovarian reserve or profound ovarian suppression by long-term oral contraceptive use?

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are widely used by reproductive-aged women. Current data suggest that long-term use of COCs can suppress ovarian reserve markers, including anti-mullerian hormone and antral follicle count, which may negatively impact ovarian response and oocyte yield in patients undergoing planned oocyte cryopreservation to preserve future reproductive potential. Discontinuation of COCs can improve ovarian stimulation outcomes, though the ideal duration of cessation is unknown.