bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from mTORC2 Balances AKT Activation and eIF2α Serine 51 Phosphorylation to Promote Survival under Stress
Authors: Tenkerian Clara , Krishnamoorthy Jothilatha , Mounir Zineb , Kazimierczak Urszula , Khoutorsky Arkady , Staschke Kirk A. , Kristof Arnold S. , Wang Shuo , Hatzoglou Maria , Koromilas Antonis E.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The mTOR nucleates two complexes, namely mTOR complex 1 and 2 (mTORC1 and mTORC2), which are implicated in cell growth, survival, metabolism, and cancer. Phosphorylation of the α-subunit of translation initiation factor eIF2 at serine 51 (eIF2αS51P) is a key event of mRNA translation initiation and a master regulator of cell fate during cellular stress. Recent studies have implicated mTOR signaling in the stress response, but its connection to eIF2αS51P has remained unclear. Herein, we report that genetic as well as catalytic inhibition of mTORC2 induces eIF2αS51P. On the other hand, the allosteric inhibitor rapamycin induces eIF2αS51P through pathways that are independent of mTORC1 inactivation. Increased eIF2αS51P by impaired mTORC2 depends on the inactivation of AKT, which primes the activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident kinase PERK/PEK. The biologic function of eIF2αS51P was characterized in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)-mutant cells, which are defective in mTORC2 and AKT activity. TSC-mutant cells exhibit increased PERK activity, which is downregulated by the reconstitution of the cells with an activated form of AKT1. Also, TSC-mutant cells are increasingly susceptible to ER stress, which is reversed by AKT1 reconstitution. The susceptibility of TSC-mutant cells to ER stress is further enhanced by the pharmacologic inhibition of PERK or genetic inactivation of eIF2αS51P. Thus, the PERK/eIF2αS51P arm is an important compensatory prosurvival mechanism, which substitutes for the loss of AKT under ER stress.

Implications: A novel mechanistic link between mTOR function and protein synthesis is identified in TSC-null tumor cells under stress and reveals potential for the development of antitumor treatments with stress-inducing chemotherapeutics. Mol Cancer Res; 13(10); 1377–88. ©2015 AACR.
Data from HIF1α Regulates mTOR Signaling and Viability of Prostate Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Marhold Maximilian , Tomasich Erwin , El-Gazzar Ahmed , Heller Gerwin , Spittler Andreas , Horvat Reinhard , Krainer Michael , Horak Peter
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Tumor-initiating subpopulations of cancer cells, also known as cancer stem cells (CSC), were recently identified and characterized in prostate cancer. A well-characterized murine model of prostate cancer was used to investigate the regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1A/HIF1α) in CSCs and a basal stem cell subpopulation (Lin−/Sca-1+/CD49f+) was identified, in primary prostate tumors of mice, with elevated HIF1α expression. To further analyze the consequences of hypoxic upregulation on stem cell proliferation and HIF1α signaling, CSC subpopulations from murine TRAMP-C1 cells (Sca-1+/CD49f+) as well as from a human prostate cancer cell line (CD44+/CD49f+) were isolated and characterized. HIF1α levels and HIF target gene expression were elevated in hypoxic CSC-like cells, and upregulation of AKT occurred through a mechanism involving an mTOR/S6K/IRS-1 feedback loop. Interestingly, resistance of prostate CSCs to selective mTOR inhibitors was observed because of HIF1α upregulation. Thus, prostate CSCs show a hypoxic deactivation of a feedback inhibition of AKT signaling through IRS-1. In light of these results, we propose that deregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway through HIF1α is critical for CSC quiescence and maintenance by attenuating CSC metabolism and growth via mTOR and promoting survival by AKT signaling. We also propose that prostate CSCs can exhibit primary drug resistance to selective mTOR inhibitors.

Implications: This work contributes to a deeper understanding of hypoxic regulatory mechanisms in CSCs and will help devise novel therapies against prostate cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 13(3); 556–64. ©2014 AACR.
Data from DNA-Directed Polymerase Subunits Play a Vital Role in Human Telomeric Overhang Processing
Authors: Diotti Raffaella , Kalan Sampada , Matveyenko Anastasiya , Loayza Diego
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Telomeres consist of TTAGGG repeats bound by the shelterin complex and end with a 3′ overhang. In humans, telomeres shorten at each cell division, unless telomerase (TERT) is expressed and able to add telomeric repeats. For effective telomere maintenance, the DNA strand complementary to that made by telomerase must be synthesized. Recent studies have discovered a link between different activities necessary to process telomeres in the S phase of the cell cycle to reform a proper overhang. Notably, the human CST complex (CTC1/STN1/TEN1), known to interact functionally with the polymerase complex (POLA/primase), was shown to be important for telomere processing. Here, focus was paid to the catalytic (POLA1/p180) and accessory (POLA2/p68) subunits of the polymerase, and their mechanistic roles at telomeres. We were able to detect p68 and p180 at telomeres in S-phase using chromatin immunoprecipitation. We could also show that the CST, shelterin, and polymerase complexes interact, revealing contacts occurring at telomeres. We found that the polymerase complex could associate with telomerase activity. Finally, depletion of p180 by siRNA led to increased overhang amounts at telomeres. These data support a model in which the polymerase complex is important for proper telomeric overhang processing through fill-in synthesis, during S phase. These results shed light on important events necessary for efficient telomere maintenance and protection.

Implications: This study describes the interplay between DNA replication components with proteins that associate with chromosome ends, and telomerase. These interactions are proposed to be important for the processing and protection of chromosome ends. Mol Cancer Res; 13(3); 402–10. ©2014 AACR.
Data from p53 Mutation Directs AURKA Overexpression via miR-25 and FBXW7 in Prostatic Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma
Authors: Li Zhen , Sun Yin , Chen Xufeng , Squires Jill , Nowroozizadeh Behdokht , Liang Chaozhao , Huang Jiaoti
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Prostatic small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNC) is a rare but aggressive form of prostate cancer that is negative for androgen receptor (AR) and not responsive to hormonal therapy. The molecular etiology of this prostate cancer variant is not well understood; however, mutation of the p53 (TP53) tumor suppressor in prostate neuroendocrine cells inactivates the IL8–CXCR2–p53 pathway that normally inhibits cellular proliferation, leading to the development of SCNC. SCNC also overexpresses Aurora kinase A (AURKA) which is considered to be a viable therapeutic target. Therefore, the relationship of these two molecular events was studied, and we show that p53 mutation leads to increased expression of miR-25 and downregulation of the E3 ubiquitin ligase FBXW7, resulting in elevated levels of Aurora kinase A. This study demonstrates an intracellular pathway by which p53 mutation leads to Aurora kinase A expression, which is critically important for the rapid proliferation and aggressive behavior of prostatic SCNC.

Implications: The pathogenesis of prostatic SCNC involves a p53 and Aurora Kinase A signaling mechanism, both potentially targetable pathways. Mol Cancer Res; 13(3); 584–91. ©2014 AACR.
Table S5 from Time-Dependent Prognostic Value of Serological and Measurable Residual Disease Assessments after Idecabtagene Vicleucel
Authors: Paiva Bruno , Manrique Irene , Rytlewski Julie , Campbell Timothy , Kazanecki Christian C. , Martin Nathan , Anderson Larry D. , Berdeja Jesús G. , Lonial Sagar , Raje Noopur S. , Lin Yi , Moreau Philippe , San-Miguel Jesús F. , Munshi Nikhil C. , Kaiser Shari M.
Published: January 2024

number samples with inferior limit of MRD
Supplementary Data 3 from ETV4-Dependent Transcriptional Plasticity Maintains MYC Expression and Results in IMiD Resistance in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Neri Paola , Barwick Benjamin G. , Jung David , Patton Jonathan C. , Maity Ranjan , Tagoug Ines , Stein Caleb K. , Tilmont Remi , Leblay Noemie , Ahn Sungwoo , Lee Holly , Welsh Seth J. , Riggs Daniel L. , Stong Nicholas , Flynt Erin , Thakurta Anjan , Keats Jonathan J. , Lonial Sagar , Bergsagel P. Leif , Boise Lawrence H. , Bahlis Nizar J.
Published: January 2024

KZF1 ChIP-seq peaks as determined with MACS2 relative to MM1S cells input.
Supplementary Data 2 from ETV4-Dependent Transcriptional Plasticity Maintains MYC Expression and Results in IMiD Resistance in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Neri Paola , Barwick Benjamin G. , Jung David , Patton Jonathan C. , Maity Ranjan , Tagoug Ines , Stein Caleb K. , Tilmont Remi , Leblay Noemie , Ahn Sungwoo , Lee Holly , Welsh Seth J. , Riggs Daniel L. , Stong Nicholas , Flynt Erin , Thakurta Anjan , Keats Jonathan J. , Lonial Sagar , Bergsagel P. Leif , Boise Lawrence H. , Bahlis Nizar J.
Published: January 2024

Differentially expressed genes and GSEA in OPM2 cells following shRNA knockdown of IKZF3.
Supplementary Data 1 from Transcriptional Heterogeneity Overcomes Super-Enhancer Disrupting Drug Combinations in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Welsh Seth J. , Barwick Benjamin G. , Meermeier Erin W. , Riggs Daniel L. , Shi Chang-Xin , Zhu Yuan Xiao , Sharik Meaghen E. , Du Megan T. , Abrego Rocha Leslie D. , Garbitt Victoria M. , Stein Caleb K. , Petit Joachim L. , Meurice Nathalie , Tafoya Alvarado Yuliza , Fonseca Rodrigo , Todd Kennedi T. , Brown Sochilt , Hammond Zachery J. , Cuc Nicklus H. , Wittenberg Courtney , Herzog Camille , Roschke Anna V. , Demchenko Yulia N. , Chen Wei-dong D. , Li Peng , Liao Wei , Leonard Warren J. , Lonial Sagar , Bahlis Nizar J. , Neri Paola , Boise Lawrence H. , Chesi Marta , Bergsagel P. Leif
Published: January 2024

Differentially expressed genes between POM (200 nM), GNE781 (40nM) or both (Combo) in JJN3 and KMS11 control (eGFP) and BATF overexpressing cells
Data from Immune Surveillance of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Is Mediated by HLA-Presented Antigens on Leukemia Progenitor Cells
Authors: Nelde Annika , Schuster Heiko , Heitmann Jonas S. , Bauer Jens , Maringer Yacine , Zwick Melissa , Volkmer Jens-Peter , Chen James Y. , Stanger Anna M. Paczulla , Lehmann Ariane , Appiah Bismark , Märklin Melanie , Rücker-Braun Elke , Salih Helmut R. , Roerden Malte , Schroeder Sarah M. , Häring Max-Felix , Schlosser Andreas , Schetelig Johannes , Schmitz Marc , Boerries Melanie , Köhler Natalie , Lengerke Claudia , Majeti Ravindra , Weissman Irving L. , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Walz Juliane S.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Therapy-resistant leukemia stem and progenitor cells (LSC) are a main cause of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) relapse. LSC-targeting therapies may thus improve outcome of patients with AML. Here we demonstrate that LSCs present HLA-restricted antigens that induce T-cell responses allowing for immune surveillance of AML. Using a mass spectrometry–based immunopeptidomics approach, we characterized the antigenic landscape of patient LSCs and identified AML- and AML/LSC-associated HLA-presented antigens absent from normal tissues comprising nonmutated peptides, cryptic neoepitopes, and neoepitopes of common AML driver mutations of NPM1 and IDH2. Functional relevance of shared AML/LSC antigens is illustrated by presence of their cognizant memory T cells in patients. Antigen-specific T-cell recognition and HLA class II immunopeptidome diversity correlated with clinical outcome. Together, these antigens shared among AML and LSCs represent prime targets for T cell–based therapies with potential of eliminating residual LSCs in patients with AML.
Significance:
The elimination of therapy-resistant leukemia stem and progenitor cells (LSC) remains a major challenge in the treatment of AML. This study identifies and functionally validates LSC-associated HLA class I and HLA class II–presented antigens, paving the way to the development of LSC-directed T cell–based immunotherapeutic approaches for patients with AML.

See related commentary by Ritz, p. 430.

This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 419
Supplementary Table 3 from Neoadjuvant CD40 Agonism Remodels the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Locally Advanced Esophageal/Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Authors: Soto Maira , Filbert Erin L. , Yang Hai , Starzinski Stephanie , Starzinski Alec , Gin Marissa , Chen Brandon , Le Phi , Li Tony , Bol Brandon , Cheung Alexander , Zhang Li , Hsu Frank J. , Ko Andrew , Fong Lawrence , Keenan Bridget P.
Published: January 2024

Total-Seq antibody targets and barcodes.
FIGURE 3 from Neoadjuvant CD40 Agonism Remodels the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Locally Advanced Esophageal/Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Authors: Soto Maira , Filbert Erin L. , Yang Hai , Starzinski Stephanie , Starzinski Alec , Gin Marissa , Chen Brandon , Le Phi , Li Tony , Bol Brandon , Cheung Alexander , Zhang Li , Hsu Frank J. , Ko Andrew , Fong Lawrence , Keenan Bridget P.
Published: January 2024

Sotigalimab induces an activated T cell infiltrate and reduces Tregs in tumors. A, Characterization of T cell subsets in the TME was done by MIBI analysis using markers for DNA, keratin, CD4, CD8, CD45RO, Foxp3, and Granzyme B (GZMB; representative image: patient 04). B, Percentage of each T cell subsets are shown for samples pre- and post-treatment, out of total intratumoral T cells, as analyzed by MIBI (pre n = 5, post n = 4). C, Ki67 expression in all CD8+ T cell subsets was quantified using MIBI analysis (pre n = 5, post n = 4). D, scRNAseq analysis was used to identify the top pathways either up- or downregulated in T cells (pre n = 3, post n = 4). The text inside boxes of the heat map is the proportion of genes enriched in the pathway; gray color indicates no enriched genes. E, Individual cells were scored for genes related to oxidative phosphorylation (y-axis) and T cell effector function (x-axis) for CD8+ and non-Treg CD4+ T cells (pre n = 3, post n = 4). F, Quantification of T cell clones as preexisting, newly induced, or persistent for each T cell type in the tumor (pre n = 3, post n = 4). G and H, More granular subtypes of T cells plotted in UMAP space (G) and labeled by subtype, and quantified to show distribution of preexisting, induced, or persistent clones (H). I, Network plot of T cell clones (paired alpha and beta chain) with cluster details (newly induced, persistent, or pre-existing clones; blood or tumor compartment; T cell type) or patient identity overlaid (tumor: pre n = 3, post n = 4; blood: pre n = 6, post n = 6). All statistical changes for MIBI data were measured by t test using Prism GraphPad. *, P ≤ 0.05; **, P ≤ 0.01; ***, P ≤ 0.001. For scRNAseq data, comparisons denoted as significant have adjusted P < 0.05.
FIGURE 2 from Neoadjuvant CD40 Agonism Remodels the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Locally Advanced Esophageal/Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer
Authors: Soto Maira , Filbert Erin L. , Yang Hai , Starzinski Stephanie , Starzinski Alec , Gin Marissa , Chen Brandon , Le Phi , Li Tony , Bol Brandon , Cheung Alexander , Zhang Li , Hsu Frank J. , Ko Andrew , Fong Lawrence , Keenan Bridget P.
Published: January 2024

Tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells are activated post-sotigalimab with alterations in antigen processing and metabolic pathways. A, MIBI analysis depicts changes in cell density and upregulation of activation markers for DCs in the TME (representative image: patient 04). B, Quantification of DC density in the tumor pre- and post-sotigalimab by total DCs and specific subset (pre n = 5, post n = 4). C, Quantification of activation markers CD86, HLA-II, and CD40 expression pre- and post-sotigalimab by MIBI for all DCs pre- and post-treatment (pre n = 5, post n = 4). D and E, Visualization (D) and quantification (E) of monocyte, macrophage, and MDSC subsets using MIBI (representative image: patient 04; pre n = 5, post n = 4). F, The top pathways either up or downregulated post-sotigalimab in monocytes/macrophages and DCs, from scRNAseq analysis, are shown as a heat map (pre n = 3, post n = 4). The proportion of enriched genes within the pathway is shown within each box. Gray color corresponds to no enriched genes within the pathway. G, Individual cells were scored for genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation (y-axis) and genes related to antigen processing and presentation for monocytes/macrophages and DCs pre- and post-sotigalimab (x-axis) (pre n = 3, post n = 4). All statistical changes for MIBI data were measured by t test. *, P ≤ 0.05; **, P ≤ 0.01.
TCF7L2 and FTO Polymorphisms Are Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Risk in Kuwait
Authors: Chaudhary Nawal , Alawadhi Faye , Al-Serri Ahmad , Al-Temaimi Rabeah
Published: January 2024

Objective: Despite the high prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity in the region, reports are limited on genetic risk factors associated with T2DM risk in Kuwait. Our aim was to investigate the association of reported FTO and TCF7L2 T2DM genetic risk variants in Kuwaiti T2DM patients. Subjects and Methods: FTO rs9939609 and TCF7L2 rs7903146 variants were genotyped in 203 T2DM patients and 162 healthy controls. Data analysis included Fisher’s exact test, χ2 test, and linear and logistic regression analyses. Results: FTO rs9939609 (AA) and TCF7L2 rs7903146 (TT) genotypes associated with T2DM risk among Kuwaitis (p = 0.0016 and p < 0.0001; respectively). Both variants had the strongest association with T2DM risk in an autosomal recessive inheritance model (FTO rs9939609A: odds ratio (OR) 2.136, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21–3.67, p = 0.0075; TCF7L2 rs7903146T: OR 3.283, 95% CI: 1.92–5.76, p < 0.0001). Moreover, rs7903146T associated with risk of peripheral neuropathy (β = 0.735, 95% CI: 0.514–0.96, p < 0.001) and risk of myocardial infarction (β = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.024–0.7, p = 0.036) in T2DM patients. Conclusion: The increased susceptibility of Kuwaitis to T2DM is influenced by the same common genetic factors found in other T2DM populations. Further investigations of other T2DM genetic risk factors in Kuwait should refine and further support the clinical utility of a genetic risk score in predicting T2DM risk in a high-risk population such as Kuwait.
Metastasiertes Plattenepithelkarzinom: Nomogramme eines Populations-basierten Vorhersagemodells
Authors: Maschke Jan
Published: January 2024

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is one of the most common skin malignancies. Patients with metastatic cSCC (mcSCC) tended to have unfavorable prognosis. However, there is no available models to evaluate the survival outcomes for these patients. This study retrospectively collected mcSCC cases identified from The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2000 to 2018. All patients were randomly divided into the training and validation cohorts. The independent factors which predicted the cancer-specific survival (CSS) were identified by Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, and were used to build nomogram. he discrimination ability of nomograms was evaluated using the concordance index (C-index). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the corresponding area under the curve (AUC) at 1, 3, and 5 years were calculated to estimate the predictive accuracy. The performance of this nomogram was evaluated by the calibration curves. The decision curve analyses (DCAs) were conducted to assess the clinical usefulness of the models. Based on the novel nomograms, all patients were classified into low- and high-risk groups. Kaplan-Meier curves were plotted to compare the survival outcomes of two groups. All analyses were conducted by R software (Version 4.1.3). A total of 916 patients were included. Age, marital status, location of the primary sites, number of metastases, T stage, N stage, surgical resection of the primary sites, radiotherapy of the primary sites, and chemotherapy were significantly associated with CSS. A nomogram predicting CSS was built based on these parameters. C-index and ROC curves of nomogram showed promising discriminating and predicting ability for CSS. Survival analysis showed that patients in the low-risk group had significant superior CSS time than those in the high-risk group (median CSS time: 15.0 vs. 5.0 months, p < 0.001). In conclusion, we developed and validated a novel nomogram predicting the CSS in metastatic cSCC patients. This nomogram could be used to assess the prognosis of metastatic cSCC patients, and help clinicians evaluating optimal treatment options for individual patient.
Prostanoids in Cardiac and Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Ricciotti Emanuela , Haines Philip G. , Chai William , FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: January 2024

Prostanoids are biologically active lipids generated from arachidonic acid by the action of the COX (cyclooxygenase) isozymes. NSAIDs, which reduce the biosynthesis of prostanoids by inhibiting COX activity, are effective anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic drugs. However, their use is limited by cardiovascular adverse effects, including myocardial infarction, stroke, hypertension, and heart failure. While it is well established that NSAIDs increase the risk of atherothrombotic events and hypertension by suppressing vasoprotective prostanoids, less is known about the link between NSAIDs and heart failure risk. Current evidence indicates that NSAIDs may increase the risk for heart failure by promoting adverse myocardial and vascular remodeling. Indeed, prostanoids play an important role in modulating structural and functional changes occurring in the myocardium and in the vasculature in response to physiological and pathological stimuli.

This review will summarize current knowledge of the role of the different prostanoids in myocardial and vascular remodeling and explore how maladaptive remodeling can be counteracted by targeting specific prostanoids.
Detection of respiration-induced field modulations in fMRI: A concurrent and navigator-free approach
Authors: Jaffray Alexander , Kames Christian , Medina Michelle , Graf Christina , Clansey Adam , Rauscher Alexander
Published: January 2024

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is typically acquired using gradient-echo sequences with a long echo time at high temporal resolution. Gradient-echo sequences inherently encode information about the magnetic field in the often discarded image phase. We demonstrate a method for processing the phase of reconstructed fMRI data to isolate temporal fluctuations in the harmonic fields associated with respiration by solving a blind source separation problem. The fMRI-derived field fluctuations are shown to be in strong agreement with breathing belt data acquired during the same scan. This work presents a concurrent, hardware-free measurement of respiration-induced field fluctuations, providing a respiratory regressor for fMRI analysis which is independent of local contrast changes, and with potential applications in image reconstruction and fMRI analysis.
Taxonomy and feeding of Forcipomyia (Microhelea) fuliginosa Meigen and Forcipomyia (Microhelea) esakiana Tokunaga (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) on Antheraea mylitta Drury (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae)
Authors: MAZUMDAR SHUDDHASATTWA MAITRA , BANERJEE NABANITA , REDDY BOMMIREDDY THIRUPAM , KAR SURAJIT , SATHYANARAYANA KUTALA , MAZUMDAR ABHIJIT
Published: January 2024

Taxonomic equivocality and complexity exist in the two species of Ceratopogonids, Forcipomyia (Microhelea) fuliginosa Meigen and Forcipomyia (Microhelea) esakiana Tokunaga. Incongruencies and inaccuracies in species identification restrict further biological and ecological studies on the host-ectoparasite association. Preferential landing and hemolymphophagy of F. fuliginosa and F. esakiana on Antheraea mylitta Drury larva were studied under field conditions. The silkworm A. mylitta is reared in the tasar sericulture industry, contributing 1466 metric tons (2021–22) of indigenous raw silk in India. Ectoparasitic behavior of the biting midges, F. fuliginosa, and F. esakiana is an increasing threat to the silkworm, necessitating proper identification. Intra and inter-variations of these two closely related species have been stated. Morphological-based identification of these species has been substantiated with COX1 molecular data. A Bayesian-modeled approach to reconstruct the dendrogram of the two species based on the COX1 sequences generated has been presented along with the referred sequences of F. fuliginosa from Genebank. The species F. esakiana is being reported for the first time from India, along with its ectoparasitic hemolymphophagous nature. The role of these insectivorous species in transmitting pathogens to the larvae of tasar silk needs further investigation.
Report of three centrohelid heliozoan species (Centroplasthelida Febre-Chevalier et Febre) from new localities in Europe with notes on their distribution
Authors: GAPONOVA LIUDMYLA , SUZAKI TOSHINOBU
Published: January 2024

Raphidocystis marginata (Siemensma, 1981), Raineriophrys echinata (Rainer, 1968), and Pterocystis fortesca (Nicholls, 1983) are heliozoan protists, have been recorded only in a few localities in Europe, and considered to be rare species. These centrohelid heliozoans have been reported for the first time in Ukrainian Polissia, and we provide their morphological descriptions with new morphometric data of exoskeleton (periplast) based on Ukrainian material. The diagnostic morphological characters are illustrated by light and scanning electron microscope photographs. Their geographical distribution in Europe and biotope preference are discussed.
Social partnership, company-level collective bargaining and union revitalization in Ireland
Authors: Paolucci Valentina , Roche William K
Published: January 2024

This article explores recent trade union efforts in Ireland to re-engage activists and members and promote revitalization following the termination of a 22-year period of tripartite social partnership. It analyses four case studies of major unions’ strategies to involve activists and members in a workplace-anchored model of firm-level collective bargaining. The findings indicate that decentralized bargaining has become the preferred model of pay determination for Irish unions, and they express little interest in returning to national-level centralized bargaining. Union leaders are enthusiastic about company-level bargaining primarily for three reasons. First, it revitalizes unions by sustaining and expanding union membership at the workplace. Second, it supports local bargaining arrangements that produce tangible benefits for workers, showcasing the effectiveness of unions in advocating for their members. Third, workplace arrangements enhance union influence over management decision-making, both directly through firm-level collective bargaining and indirectly by fostering incentives for continuous dialogue and information exchange.
Exploring the changes in cultural identity of primary school students in a Chinese orchestra
Authors: Guan Tao , Liu Jin , Luo Ning
Published: January 2024

The promotion of cultural sustainability and cultural identity through the transmission of traditional music has become a prevalent theme in global music education. This instrumental case study, conducted in a capital city in south China (1) investigated the ways in which Chinese orchestra learning influences primary school students’ cultural identity; (2) explored the developmental process of students’ cultural identity in the Chinese orchestra. The research tools included observational field notes, reflective journals and semi-structured interviews. The participants were 32 primary school students and 5 music teachers. The findings suggested that the influences of the Chinese orchestra on the students’ cultural identity were primarily due to the orchestra’s cultural atmosphere and the elements of traditional instrumental music. Based on the four dimensions of cultural identity from a developmental perspective, this study further revealed the developmental trajectory of primary school students’ cultural identity from behaviour to cognition to emotion and finally to evaluation during the period of Chinese orchestra learning. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the role of music in shaping cultural identity and provide pedagogical implications for the effective promotion of cultural identity through traditional instrument learning.
‘Floating things’ and methodological drift: Accounting for haunted materialities in the North Pacific Ocean
Authors: De Wolff Kim
Published: January 2024

In this article I follow the mystery of millions of tons of materials washed out to sea by the March 2011 Japan tsunami: a massive wave of lost materials expected to reach North American shores that never seems to officially arrive. I bring Gordon’s conceptualization of haunting together with STS conversations about absence and invisibility to build on feminist approaches that do not take as given what is missing or what should be done. I begin by situating efforts to respectfully distinguish materials survivors call ‘floating things’ amidst a sea of concern for ocean plastic pollution. These efforts are then contrasted with what I initially perceived as the institutional erasure of floating things at sea, re-counting how some practices work to ensure materials can be ignored, cleaned-up, or used for other kinds of ocean science research. Yet, floating things refuse to disappear completely, as potential traces wash up on beaches, trajectories are modeled back into existence, and individual practices exceed institutional obligations. I argue that attending to hauntings by listening to ghosts and drifting with them is necessary for justice-oriented forms of care for absences. In the case of floating things, this means honoring survivor relations while resisting the perpetuation of Pacific narratives of danger from the outside.
Selective recovery of lithium from spent lithium iron phosphate batteries
Authors: Wu Yuanzhong , Li Guangming , Zhao Siqi , Yin Yanwei , Wang Beng , He Wenzhi
Published: January 2024

The recovery of lithium from spent lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries is of great significance to prevent resource depletion and environmental pollution. In this study, through active ingredient separation, selective leaching and stepwise chemical precipitation develop a new method for the selective recovery of lithium from spent LiFePO4 batteries by using sodium persulphate (Na2S2O8) to oxidize LiFePO4 to FePO4. The impact of various variables on the efficiency of lithium leaching was investigated. Moreover, a combination of thermodynamic analysis and characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was employed to elucidate the leaching mechanism. It was found that 98.65% of lithium could be selectively leached in just 35 minutes at 60°C with only 0.2 times excess of Na2S2O8. This high leaching efficiency can be attributed to the stability and lack of structural damage during the oxidation leaching process. The proposed process is economically viable and environmentally friendly, thus showing great potential for the large-scale recycling of spent LiFePO4 batteries.
The role of the state in shaping the internationalization of firms in the twenty-first century
Authors: Ricz Judit , Sallai Dorottya , Sass Magdolna
Published: January 2024

The year 2020, with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent crises, highlighted the significance of state intervention in shaping firm competitiveness. However, unprecedented government support for businesses has left us puzzled about the state’s role in firm internationalization, especially in emerging markets and the Global South, where government involvement has been accompanied by democratic backsliding and rising authoritarianism. Our Special Issue moves the current debate forward by exploring how the state’s changing role affects firm internationalization. The objective of this editorial is twofold: stimulating theory development by scrutinizing state intervention in emerging markets in recent decades and introducing the Special Issue articles. Contributions investigate how governments support the internationalization of their domestic businesses by focusing on firms’ institutional embeddedness and the impact of institutions as both resources and constraints to their internationalization. By linking the discourse on state capitalism with business internationalization, our empirical studies advance research on political economy and the state’s role in innovative ways, reflecting on recent geopolitical developments. Our introductory article situates the Special Issue papers in the state capitalism and firm internationalization literatures and discusses their implications for future research.
Challenges and Coping Strategies of Families With Young Children Amid Hurricanes: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Choi Shinwoo , Choi Mi Jin , Shamrova Daria P. , Hong Joo Young , Kim Yong Je , Mullan Sierra N.
Published: January 2024

Climate-induced disasters have immediate and lasting effects disrupting the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Children are among the most vulnerable during disasters due to their physical, psychological, and developmental capacities that render them reliant on their parents and/or caregivers to maintain safety and ensure their basic needs are met. This study explored barriers experienced by parents and caregivers during and after Hurricanes Irma and Michael struck Florida in 2017 and 2018. We conducted 41 semi-structured interviews with hurricane-affected parents of children aged 0 to 14. Interviews explored challenges in caring for young children during response and recovery, resource usage/availability, and awareness and willingness to seek formal support in future disasters. Parents reported experiencing stress due to financial constraints and limited resources, which affected their ability to evacuate and make post-disaster decisions.
How do women feel cold water swimming affects their menstrual and perimenopausal symptoms?
Authors: Pound Megan , Massey Heather , Roseneil Sasha , Williamson Ruth , Harper C Mark , Tipton Mike , Shawe Jill , Felton Malika , Harper Joyce C
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to determine how women felt cold water swimming affected their menstrual and perimenopausal symptoms.

Study design

An online survey that asked women who regularly swim in cold water about their experiences. The survey was advertised for 2 months on social media. Questions related to cold water swimming habits and menstrual and perimenopausal symptoms were analysed.

Main outcome measures

Quantitative and qualitative data including; frequency of menstrual and menopause symptoms, the effect of cold water swimming on these symptoms.

Results

1114 women completed the survey. Women reported that cold water swimming reduced their menstrual symptoms, notably psychological symptoms such as anxiety (46.7%), mood swings (37.7%) and irritability (37.6%). Perimenopausal women reported a significant improvement in anxiety (46.9%), mood swings (34.5%), low mood (31.1%) and hot flushes (30.3%). The majority of women with symptoms swam specifically to reduce these symptoms (56.4% for period and 63.3% for perimenopause symptoms). Women said they felt it was the physical and mental effects of the cold water that helped their symptoms. For the free text question, five themes were identified: the calming and mood-boosting effect of the water, companionship and community, period improvements, an improvement in hot flushes and an overall health improvement.

Conclusion

Women felt that cold water swimming had a positive overall effect on menstrual and perimenopause symptoms. Studies on other forms of exercise to relieve menstrual and perimenopause symptoms may show similar findings.
Reinforcement-Learning-Informed Queries Guide Behavioral Change
Authors: Brown Vanessa M. , Lee Jacob , Wang John , Casas Brooks , Chiu Pearl H.
Published: January 2024

Algorithmically defined aspects of reinforcement learning correlate with psychopathology symptoms and change with symptom improvement following cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Separate work in nonclinical samples has shown that varying the structure and statistics of task environments can change learning. Here, we combine these literatures, drawing on CBT-based guided restructuring of thought processes and computationally defined mechanistic targets identified by reinforcement-learning models in depression, to test whether and how verbal queries affect learning processes. Using a parallel-arm design, we tested 1,299 online participants completing a probabilistic reward-learning task while receiving repeated queries about the task environment (11 learning-query arms and one active control arm). Querying participants about reinforcement-learning-related task components altered computational-model-defined learning parameters in directions specific to the target of the query. These effects on learning parameters were consistent across depression-symptom severity, suggesting new learning-based strategies and therapeutic targets for evoking symptom change in mood psychopathology.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Tumor microenvironment and immune system preservation in early-stage breast cancer: routes for early recurrence after mastectomy and treatment for lobular and ductal forms of disease
Authors: Saad Hassan A. , Baz Azza , Riad Mohamed , Eraky Mohamed E. , El-Taher Ahmed , Farid Mohamed I. , Sharaf Khaled , Said Huda E. M. , Ibrahim Lotfy A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Intra-ductal cancer (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer, with intra-lobular cancer (ILC) coming in second. Surgery is the primary treatment for early stage breast cancer. There are now irrefutable data demonstrating that the immune context of breast tumors can influence growth and metastasis. Adjuvant chemotherapy may be administered in patients who are at a high risk of recurrence. Our goal was to identify the processes underlying both types of early local recurrences.

Methods

This was a case-control observational study. Within 2 years of receiving adjuvant taxan and anthracycline-based chemotherapy, as well as modified radical mastectomy (MRM), early stage IDC and ILC recurred. Vimentin, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP1), and clustered differentiation (CD95) were investigated.

Results

Of the samples in the ductal type group, 25 showed local recurrence, and 25 did not. Six individuals in the lobular-type group did not experience recurrence, whereas seven did. Vimentin (p = 0.000 and 0.021), PDGF (p = 0.000 and 0.002), and CD95 (p = 0.000 and 0.045) expressions were significantly different in ductal and lobular carcinoma types, respectively. Measurement of ductal type was the sole significant difference found in MMP1 (p = 0.000) and α-SMA (p = 0.000). α-SMA and CD95 were two variables that helped the recurrence mechanism in the ductal type according to the pathway analysis. In contrast, the CD95 route is a recurrent mechanism for the lobular form.

Conclusions

While the immune system plays a larger role in ILC, the tumor microenvironment and immune system both influence the recurrence of IDC. According to this study, improving the immune system may be a viable cancer treatment option.
Genomic and cytogenetic analyses reveal satellite repeat signature in allotetraploid okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Authors: Liu Jiarui , Lin Xinyi , Wang Xiaojie , Feng Liqing , Zhu Shixin , Tian Runmeng , Fang Jingping , Tao Aifen , Fang Pingping , Qi Jianmin , Zhang Liwu , Huang Yongji , Xu Jiantang
Published: January 2024

Background

Satellite repeats are one of the most rapidly evolving components in eukaryotic genomes and play vital roles in genome regulation, genome evolution, and speciation. As a consequence, the composition, abundance and chromosome distribution of satellite repeats often exhibit variability across various species, genome, and even individual chromosomes. However, we know little about the satellite repeat evolution in allopolyploid genomes.

Results

In this study, we investigated the satellite repeat signature in five okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) accessions using genomic and cytogenetic methods. In each of the five accessions, we identified eight satellite repeats, which exhibited a significant level of intraspecific conservation. Through fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) experiments, we observed that the satellite repeats generated multiple signals and exhibited variations in copy number across chromosomes. Intriguingly, we found that five satellite repeats were interspersed with centromeric retrotransposons, signifying their involvement in centromeric satellite repeat identity. We confirmed subgenome-biased amplification patterns of these satellite repeats through existing genome assemblies or dual-color FISH, indicating their distinct dynamic evolution in the allotetraploid okra subgenome. Moreover, we observed the presence of multiple chromosomes harboring the 35 S rDNA loci, alongside another chromosomal pair carrying the 5 S rDNA loci in okra using FISH assay. Remarkably, the intensity of 35 S rDNA hybridization signals varied among chromosomes, with the signals predominantly localized within regions of relatively weak DAPI staining, associated with GC-rich heterochromatin regions. Finally, we observed a similar localization pattern between 35 S rDNA and three satellite repeats with high GC content and confirmed their origin in the intergenic spacer region of the 35 S rDNA.

Conclusions

Our findings uncover a unique satellite repeat signature in the allotetraploid okra, contributing to our understanding of the composition, abundance, and chromosomal distribution of satellite repeats in allopolyploid genomes, further enriching our understanding of their evolutionary dynamics in complex allopolyploid genomes.
Factors associated with serious abdominal conditions in geriatric patients visiting the emergency department
Authors: Dadeh Ar-aishah , Uppakarnnuntakul Wasitthee
Published: January 2024

Background

Abdominal pain occurs in 20% of geriatric patients who visit the emergency department (ED). Geriatric patients usually have more severe conditions and a higher mortality rate. We aimed to determine the factors associated with serious abdominal conditions in geriatric patients who visit the ED with abdominal pain.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 1, 2017 to June 30, 2021. The inclusion criteria were patients aged ≥ 65 years and presented at the ED with acute abdominal pain. Significantly associated factors for serious abdominal conditions were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

A total of 1221 patients were included in this study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the significant factors associated with serious abdominal conditions were male (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.29, 95% CI:1.3–4.04; p = 0.004), anorexia (AOR 2.16, 95% CI:1.08–4.32; p = 0.03), NEWS 5–6 (AOR 2.96, 95% CI:1.35–6.49; p = 0.007), SBP 100–125 mmHg (AOR 1.5, 95% CI:0.75–2.99; p ≤ 0.001), guarding (AOR 6.92, 95% CI:3.39–14.12; p ≤ 0.001), WBC ≥ 14,000 cells/mm3 (AOR 2.08, 95% CI:1.06–4.09; p = 0.034), ED length of stay (EDLOS) 4–8 h (AOR 2.17, 95% CI:1.08–4.36; p = 0.03), and EDLOS ≥ 8 h (AOR 3.22, 95% CI:1.15–9; p = 0.025).

Conclusions

The statistically significant factors associated with serious abdominal conditions in geriatric patients were male, anorexia, NEWS 5–6, SBP 100–125 mmHg, guarding, WBC ≥ 14,000 cells/mm3, EDLOS 4–8 h, and EDLOS ≥ 8 h.
Place of care in the last three years of life for Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Lin Haiqun , Grafova Irina B. , Zafar Anum , Setoguchi Soko , Roy Jason , Kobylarz Fred A. , Halm Ethan A. , Jarrín Olga F.
Published: January 2024

Background

Most older adults prefer aging in place; however, patients with advanced illness often need institutional care. Understanding place of care trajectory patterns may inform patient-centered care planning and health policy decisions. The purpose of this study was to characterize place of care trajectories during the last three years of life.

Methods

Linked administrative, claims, and assessment data were analyzed for a 10% random sample cohort of US Medicare beneficiaries who died in 2018, aged fifty or older, and continuously enrolled in Medicare during their last five years of life. A group-based trajectory modeling approach was used to classify beneficiaries based on the proportion of days of institutional care (hospital inpatient or skilled nursing facility) and skilled home care (home health care and home hospice) used in each quarter of the last three years of life. Associations between group membership and sociodemographic and clinical predictors were evaluated.

Results

The analytic cohort included 199,828 Medicare beneficiaries. Nine place of care trajectory groups were identified, which were categorized into three clusters: home, skilled home care, and institutional care. Over half (59%) of the beneficiaries were in the home cluster, spending their last three years mostly at home, with skilled home care and institutional care use concentrated in the final quarter of life. One-quarter (27%) of beneficiaries were in the skilled home care cluster, with heavy use of skilled home health care and home hospice; the remaining 14% were in the institutional cluster, with heavy use of nursing home and inpatient care. Factors associated with both the skilled home care and institutional care clusters were female sex, Black race, a diagnosis of dementia, and Medicaid insurance. Extended use of skilled home care was more prevalent in southern states, and extended institutional care was more prevalent in midwestern states.

Conclusions

This study identified distinct patterns of place of care trajectories that varied in the timing and duration of institutional and skilled home care use during the last three years of life. Clinical, socioregional, and health policy factors influenced where patients received care. Our findings can help to inform personal and societal care planning.