bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intranodal thyroid inclusions revisited: a morphological analysis and application of BRAF VE1 immunohistochemistry
Authors: Chuang Yu‐Che , Kuo Ying‐Ju , Hang Jen‐Fan
Published: December 2024

Aims

The diagnosis of intranodal thyroid inclusions (ITIs) is controversial. We aim to investigate their clinicopathologic features and utilize immunohistochemistry (IHC) to support the diagnosis.

Methods and Results

Forty‐one cases of incidentally found ITIs between 2019 and 2023 were categorized into three groups, namely, Group A: thyroidectomy due to papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with regional lymph node dissection (n = 33), Group B: thyroidectomy due to benign thyroid disease with incidental perithyroid lymph node sampling (n = 4), and Group C: surgery due to other head and neck cancers with lateral neck lymph node dissection (n = 4). The overall incidence of ITIs was 4.17% (33/792) in Group A and 0.76% (4/524) in Group C. All ITIs sufficient for study were negative for BRAF VE1 IHC. HBME‐1 and galectin‐3 IHC were also negative in all analysed cases. Although various degrees of nuclear changes were present in ITIs, classical PTC nuclear features, i.e. pseudoinclusions, nuclear grooves, and chromatin alterations, were less commonly seen (0%, 29.3%, and 51.2%, respectively) than in metastatic PTC (90%, 95%, and 95%, respectively) (all P < 0.001). Interestingly, 77.3% (17/22) of cases with lymph node metastasis in Group A had coexistence of ITIs and metastasis in the same lymph node. During follow‐up, two cases in Group A had PTC recurrence without accompanying ITIs, while none in Group B or C had recurrent thyroid lesions.

Conclusion

We propose key diagnostic features for ITIs incorporating morphology and BRAF VE1, HBME‐1, and galectin‐3 IHC. The distinction between ITIs and metastatic PTC can be clinically relevant.
Study on the mechanical and low‐temperature degradation properties of 3Y‐TZP doped with nano‐MgO by microwave sintering
Authors: Yuan Tian , Zhang Jin , Xia Junwei , Zhang Heng , Yang Hongcheng , Yuan Haogui , Li Songxia
Published: December 2024

The effects of nano‐MgO content on the microstructure, phase composition, mechanical properties of 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal ceramics were studied by microwave sintering at 1300°C–1500°C for 15–120 min. The low‐temperature degradation resistance of the samples was evaluated by hydrothermal experiments. Samples direct microwave sintered at 1500°C for 1 h attained a relative density between 95.5% and 98.2%, with an average grain size of 0.32–0.48 µm, the phase composition was identified as tetragonal ZrO2, with a bending strength of up to 822.07 MPa and a microhardness of 1784.22 HV, with the average friction coefficient ranging from 0.132 to 0.432. Hybrid microwave sintering at 1500°C with 0.8 wt% MgO attained a relative density (94.1–95.4%) and grain size (0.25–0.29 µm) with holding time increases from 15 to 45 min. After hydrothermal treatment at 134°C/0.2 MPa for 60 h, the monoclinic phase content of the samples by direct microwave sintering held at 1500°C for 1 h decreased from 41.43 vol% to 17.85 vol% with the increase in the content of nano‐MgO, indicating that microwave sintering combined with nano‐MgO significantly inhibits the low‐temperature degradation of zirconia composite ceramics.
Tell Me More! Examining the Benefits of Adding Structured Probing in Asynchronous Video Interviews
Authors: Patel Rahul D. , Powell Deborah M. , Roulin Nicolas , Spence Jeffrey R.
Published: December 2024

The personnel selection field has observed the rising use of asynchronous video interviews (AVI). The current study investigates whether follow‐up questions (probes) can optimize the applicant experience in AVIs. Across two experimental studies with participants recruited from Prolific, we investigated whether AVIs with probing promote applicant reactions (e.g., the opportunity to perform perceptions) toward the AVI and how probing influences interview behaviors, applicant perceptions, and interview performance ratings. In Study 1, 404 participants were randomly assigned to either an AVI with probing or an AVI without probing. Results indicated that probing directly improved the opportunity to perform perceptions and interview performance ratings. In addition, probing positively impacted honest impression management and motivation to perform indirectly through participants' perceived opportunity to perform. However, mediation analyses suggested that the effect of probing on interview performance ratings was driven by response length. In Study 2 (n = 271), we teased apart the effects of the inherently added response time that probing affords applicants with an additional condition that matched the response time of probes. Relative to Study 1, probing only slightly improved the opportunity to perform perceptions, but the effect of probing on the opportunity to perform perceptions was greater when compared to an AVI with an equivalent response time. In addition, probing positively impacted interview performance ratings, above and beyond their increased response time. Implications, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Impact of Variants, Epidemiological Trends, and Comorbidities on Hospitalization Rates of Unvaccinated Children in Brazil: A Retrospective Study (2020–2022)
Authors: Conte Danielle Dias , Watanabe Raí André Silva , Chaves Ana Paula Cunha , Alberto‐Lei Felipe , Perosa Ana Helena Sita , Barbosa Gabriela , Bellei Nancy
Published: December 2024

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the impact of the emergence of new variants and the epidemiological scenario on hospitalization rates of unvaccinated children (0–12 years) in Brazil. The study included 1614 children admitted to a hospital between March 2020 and December 2022 but 101 (6.3%) of them testing positive for COVID‐19 via RT‐PCR. The frequency of COVID‐19 cases increased from 7.5% in 2020 to 9.3% in 2022 with the emergence of the Omicron variant. Children over 5 years old with comorbidities accounted for most cases (69% [70/101]). Sickle cell anemia was the most frequent comorbidity (20%), and influenza‐like illness (36% [36/101]) and decompensation of underlying disease (33% [33/101]) were the main reasons for hospitalization. Coinfection was detected in 11% of cases, with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being the most common viral pathogen (71%). Hospital readmission occurred in 26% of cases, with a higher frequency in children over 5 years old. The death rate was 1.9%, with comorbidities such as cystic fibrosis and congenital heart disease as risk factors. These findings emphasize the need to prioritize vaccination with monovalent Omicron XBB for high‐risk groups, including children over 5 years old with comorbidities, to mitigate the impact of new variants and reduce severe disease outcomes.
Clinical performance and cost‐effectiveness of a Silicone foam with 3DFit™ technology in chronic wounds compared with standard of care: An open randomised multicentre investigation
Authors: Voegeli David , Landauro Malene Hornbak , Sperup Trine , Ayoub Nayla , McRobert John William
Published: December 2024

The objective of the study was to show the clinical performance and cost‐effectiveness of a Silicone foam dressing with 3DFit™ Technology compared to current standard of care. This was an open‐labelled, two‐arm, randomised controlled multicentre study conducted from February to December 2023. One hundred and two participants with an exuding, non‐infected and chronic ulcer were randomised in a 1:1 fashion and treated with either a Silicone foam with 3DFit™ Technology or standard of care (a filler combined with a secondary dressing), stratified by venous leg ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers. After a 4‐week study period, wound size and total costs were evaluated. After 4 weeks of treatment, a comparable percentage in wound area reduction was observed in both treatment arms with mean and 95% confidence interval of 54.3% (37.1%; 71.5%) and 43.0% (26.5%; 59.6%) for the investigational and comparator dressing, respectively. This corresponded to a mean difference of 11.3% ([−10.22; 32.86], p = 0.299). Total mean estimated costs were significantly lower for the investigational dressing (£14.3, 95% confidence interval [£9.6; £19.0]) compared to the two‐dressing regime (£21.4 [£16.9; £26.0]), corresponding to a 33% price reduction (p = 0.033) after 4 weeks of treatment. With this RCT, a conforming Silicone foam dressing with 3DFit™ Technology was shown to be clinically comparable and a cost‐effective alternative to using a filler and a secondary dressing at a significantly lower cost in both venous leg ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers up to 2 cm in depth.
The object(s) of legality
Authors: CLOATRE EMILIE , COWAN DAVE , HAMMERSLEV OLE , NIELSEN STINE PIILGAARD PORNER
Published: December 2024

In this article, we argue for the relevance of studying the association between objects and people as co‐constituting legality in everyday life rather than solely focusing either on people or on ‘icons’. Indeed, we go further and argue that scholarship is in danger of producing an impoverished version of legal consciousness if it fails to look beyond the human actors, the people in society. Studying objects and associations, and their role in the making of legalities, is enriched by engaging with the insights of legal consciousness, and its close attention to the way in which everyday forms of engagement with legal orders are co‐constitutive of legality. We illustrate through two different case studies how associations between objects and people (in a homeless shelter for young people and among herbalists) mediate and shape legal consciousness.
Couples age discrepancies in a large‐scale European sample: Evolutionary and sociocultural perspectives
Authors: Gottfried Jaroslav , Ševčíková Anna , Blinka Lukas , Lambert South Andrea
Published: December 2024

This study examines age discrepancies in couples formed at various stages of life. Both evolutionary and sociocultural perspectives suggest that people's preferences for their partner's age gradually change throughout their lifespan. This study includes European couples (N = 35,996; 51% women and 49% men) surveyed in two waves of the panel study Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). A linear regression model was employed to analyze age differences in couples concerning when the relationship began. For men, the projected age of their partner decreased by nearly 1 year for every 5 years of their age. A similar but smaller effect was observed for women. These findings were consistent across 29 countries and indicated that men tended to be more inclined to start relationships with younger partners as they grew older. Conversely, women's initial tendency to partner with slightly older individuals shifted toward same‐aged partners as they aged. These results indirectly suggest that preferences in age‐related mate selection may systematically change as individuals grow older. An evolutionary and sociocultural rationale for age disparities seems plausible for men, regardless of their age, whereas sociocultural influences come into play for women as they age.
Evidence for clonal integration of clones contributing to unexpectedly higher benefits for interspecific neighbours
Authors: Zhou Quan , Chen Yujie , Zhang Hui , Wu Shengjun , Liu Ying
Published: December 2024

Clonal plants benefit from the ability to translocate resources among interconnected ramets to colonize stress habitats. Despite the fact that the physiological integration of clones may influence their general performance and competitiveness, we still lack an understanding of how integration alters the ability of clones to compete with their neighbours. In a greenhouse experiment, we investigated how clonal integration of a perennial herbaceous Cynodon dactylon, which originated from two flooding stress ecotypes, influenced the growth, functional traits, biomass allocation and relative competitiveness of their intraspecific and interspecific neighbours. We also used a greenhouse reciprocal transplant experiment to assess the plasticity and adaptation of clonal integration and test the ‘home‐field’ advantage of clonal integration on the neighbours. The findings showed that, for clones of low‐stress ecotypes, clonal integration significantly enhanced the specific root length, biomass storage, root‐shoot ratio, and relative competitive ability of the interspecific neighbours, but it had little effect on the overall performance of the intraspecific neighbours across two stress ecotypes. Interestingly, such encouragement also helped the clones expand, suggesting that the clones and their physiologically independent interspecific neighbours can benefit from one another. The home‐field advantages of clonal integration were demonstrated by the fact that the clonal ramets from the home site showed more benefit for interspecific neighbours than ramets from the away site. This study provides novel evidence for facilitation and home‐field advantage between clones and interspecific neighbours and has implications for understanding stress environments where both high levels of clonality and interspecific facilitation are expected to occur.
Computed tomographic features and temporal evolution of the magnetic resonance imaging features of a resolving intracranial intraventricular hematoma in a dog
Authors: Kallis Giorgio , Guo Shanshan , Saulnier‐Troff François , Hughes Jonathan
Published: December 2024

An 11‐year‐old miniature pinscher presented for acute onset, seizure‐like or syncopal episodes. Computed tomography of the head revealed a hyperattenuating, nonenhancing right lateral ventricular mass. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a right lateral ventricular hemorrhagic mass associated with the choroid plexus and disseminated intraventricular and subarachnoid space hemorrhage. Subsequent MRI after 2 months was consistent with a resolving hematoma and residual abnormal choroid plexus conformation. Clinical signs resolved within 1 month on levetiracetam. To the author's knowledge, this is the first reported canine case of a resolving, intracranial, intraventricular hematoma on CT and repeat MRI.
American College of Veterinary Radiology and European College of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging consensus statement on imaging report foundations
Authors: Scrivani Peter V. , Watson Elizabeth , Joostens Zoë , Yanchik Ashley , Specchi Swan , Skogmo Hege Kippenes
Published: December 2024

Imaging reports are official medicolegal documents, detailing the conduct and interpretation of imaging studies in patient care. They serve as the primary means of communication for radiologists and significantly influence clinical decisions. This consensus statement, produced by a panel of the American College of Veterinary Radiology and European College of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging board‐certified veterinary radiologists through a modified Delphi method, addressed three key competency domains: basic patient care documentation, crafting meaningful reports, and ethical practice within legal boundaries. Meaningful reports move beyond documenting findings and providing impressions having qualities that foster effective communication for the betterment of patient care.
Prácticas letradas académicas en posgrado en salud: análisis desde la justicia epistémica
Authors: Narváez-Cardona Elizabeth , Chois-Lenis Pilar Mirely
Published: December 2024

La democratización de la oferta académica universitaria ha permitido el ingreso de estudiantes diversos, quienes habitualmente han sido caracterizados como escritores desde el discurso del déficit, aunque desde los enfoques de la literacidad y de la justicia epistémica hay aproximaciones diferentes. Con el ánimo de aportar a la discusión, presentamos un estudio cualitativo sobre exigencias y aprendizajes en torno a prácticas letradas académicas en dos posgrados en salud. Analizamos documentos oficiales, realizamos entrevistas y una caracterización autorreportada de los perfiles de los estudiantes participantes, que procesamos con análisis de contenido y teoría fundamentada. El análisis muestra que: i) la diversidad de experiencias y trayectorias de los estudiantes siempre exigirá a los programas de posgrado mantener pedagogías culturalmente receptivas a la experiencia estudiantil; y ii) los aprendizajes asociados a prácticas letradas académicas identificadas por los estudiantes, y que pueden considerarse hegemónicas, deben ser reconocidos como parte de complejas negociaciones epistémicas, que no necesariamente deben desterrarse de la formación posgraduada.
Development of a Scaled-Down Test Rig for Wheel–Rail Contact Thermal Experiments Using Optical Sensors
Authors: Nagaraju Deepa , Sharan Preeta , Sharma Sneha
Published: December 2024

Rail–wheel contact measurement is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it directly affects the safety of passengers, crew, and the general public. Accurate measurements help identify irregularities in wheel–rail contact, such as wheel defects, wear, or track anomalies, which can lead to derailments or accidents if left unaddressed. An inventive technique for measuring the temperatures at rail–wheel contact at various speeds is presented in this research. The novel approach uses a 1:5 scaled-down test rig model of a wheel and rail with a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor to combine the experimental and finite element analysis simulation to determine the rail–wheel contact temperature. By employing the various data acquisition and data analysis techniques, rail–wheel contact temperature at different speeds ranging between 10 kmph and 40 kmph was determined 1538.735–1538.831 nm with a center wavelength of 1538.438 nm. The results illustrate the possibilities of the downsized test rig with experimental observations at varying speeds by examining the benefits of FBG sensors over traditional sensors. The experimental results are used to determine the equivalent wavelength shift. FBG sensor design and simulation are done with the grating modulation depth (MOD) optical tool. For this temperature range and Bragg's wavelength of 1538.438 nm, the sensitivity of fiber Bragg grating is observed to be 13.6 pm/°C.
Acoustic Modes in an Open Box Cavity With Variable Depth Using Two Distinct Wind Tunnels
Authors: Hammer Steffen , Twaddle James , Fridh Jens , Paniagua Guillermo
Published: December 2024

Cavity resonances in ducts are a classical problem that has involved researchers from very different fields over time. More recently, the aerospace community became engaged again due to resonances found within the flow path of aero-engines, for example, in bleed cavities in the low-pressure compressor section. These resonances can lead to problems with the structural integrity of upstream components and thus warrant investigation. This study expands the previous dataset of an open box cavity with variable depth (D) and a rectangular opening with length (L), effectively testing L/D=[4,2,1/2]ratios. This parameter was indicated by Rossiter to be a strong predictive parameter in frequency generation. This article compares the results of the same cavity geometry within two wind tunnels of different dimensions and operational setups. The intention of the study is to isolate the Rossiter modes from any other geometric modes that are due to the wind tunnel’s test section geometry. This isolation allows the modification of the model of Rossiter and the cavity depth model of East to improve the predictive capability over a larger range of Mach numbers and for deeper cavities. One wind tunnel has an open loop continuous flow operation where the Mach number is set by changing the outlet static pressure. The second wind tunnel has a blowdown operation where both Mach and Reynolds numbers can be set independently by pulling a downstream vacuum and setting the upstream total pressure. The experiments were performed for an operating range from low subsonic to transonic Mach numbers. The analysis focuses on modifying the constants in both the Rossiter model and the cavity depth model proposed by East along with investigating the phenomenon of mode switching for Rossiter modes. The analyses show a good repeatability of the dataset between the two wind tunnels displaying strong resonances at similar operating points. The new proposed constants for the Rossiter model when using an L/D=2 are γ=0.15 and κ=0.58. For the deeper cavity with L/D=0.5, the constants proposed are γ=0.15 and κ=0.9. The modification of the cavity depth model by East to better predict the mode above Mach 0.3 is proposed by adjusting the constant B=2.5 and leaving A=0.65. An independence from Reynolds number of the acoustic frequency generation is demonstrated within the operating range. A mode-switching behavior is identified with the shallowest and deepest cavity showing multiple mode transitions within the operating range and a near constant Rossiter mode 1 for L/D=2.
Analysis of the Instantaneous Film Cooling Effectiveness on Showerhead Film Cooling Using Fast Response Pressure Sensitive Paint
Authors: Sounik Jeremy L. , Wright Lesley M.
Published: December 2024

The instantaneous effect of unsteady wakes on film cooling effectiveness using a fast response pressure sensitive paint was studied. Testing was performed in a five-passage, low-speed wind tunnel using five times scaled versions of typical high-pressure blades (axial chord of 17 cm). The blowing ratios studied include 0.8 and 1.2, with density ratios of 1.0 and 1.5 at each blowing ratio. Upstream unsteady wakes were produced by a spoked wheel-type wake generator. The wake generator, utilizing a varying number of rods and rotational speeds, produced Strouhal numbers of 0.1 and 0.3 while the wind tunnel inlet mainstream Reynolds number was held at a constant value of 300,000 (mainstream velocity of 21 m/s) for every test case. For each Strouhal number, blowing ratio and density ratio studied, several positions within the period between rods, and the resulting wakes, were recorded. Results show that the location of the wake along a blade's surface had a significant impact on the film cooling effectiveness in the immediate location of the wake. An overall fluctuation of up to 69% in film cooling effectiveness was observed within the wake period. Conclusions also show that while mainstream flows with higher Strouhal numbers tend to decrease film cooling effectiveness, the fluctuation of film cooling effectiveness at higher Strouhal numbers was reduced when compared to results utilizing lower Strouhal numbers. A comparison of results from tests at different density ratios showed a much smaller change in the instantaneous film cooling effectiveness between test cases.
Effect of Leading Edge Erosion on the Tip Leakage Flow in a Compressor Cascade
Authors: Stein Thomas , Leitner Markus W. , Staudacher Stephan
Published: December 2024

The interaction between tip leakage flow and passage flow in axial compressor blade rows creates complex flow mechanisms that impair flow stability. Caused by erosion of the compressor blades, these flow mechanisms become time-dependent. Especially, the compressor tip regions experience erosion-related surface loss owing to the particle-laden flow inside the engine. The corresponding reduction in chord length varies in height and leads to varying shapes of eroded compressor blades. It is likely that these impact the engine’s operability. The optical accessibility of flow structures in water was exploited by analyzing four blade tip geometries at different angles of incidence in a linear compressor cascade. The impact of these geometries on the tip flow structures is analyzed by observing the movement of inked fluid elements in space and time. Particle tracking velocimetry is used to obtain 3D trajectories of both stable and unstable flows. Whilst the non-eroded blade geometry shows stable vortex formation, a notable change in the flow characteristics is observed for particular erosion patterns. In these cases, the tip leakage flow exhibits unsteadiness, featuring fluctuations and unstable flow phenomena. A large blockage of the flow passage occurs due to a vortex breakdown.
Wake–Separation Bubble Interaction Over an Experimentally Simulated Axial Compressor Blade Under Low Reynolds Number Flow
Authors: Irps Thomas , Kanjirakkad Vasudevan
Published: December 2024

For the most part, the flow over an axial compressor blade is subjected to adverse pressure gradients. Under low Reynolds number conditions, the flow could separate off the blade surface especially on the suction side, where it first accelerates to a peak velocity and then decelerates to a higher-pressure condition at the blade exit. The “separation bubble” thus formed could, in many cases, trigger flow transition from laminar to turbulent conditions on reattachment further downstream of the point of separation. Since blade profile losses depend on the transition location, modifying the separation bubble due to any upstream generated disturbances is of great interest. In this article, the interaction between incoming wakes, which are generated periodically, and the separation bubble that exists on the blade surface is investigated. Results are presented from wind tunnel experiments conducted over a flat plate that is imposed with a surface pressure profile similar to that over a highly loaded compressor blade. The periodic wakes are introduced using an upstream bar passing mechanism that produces representative unsteady parameters. The spatial and temporal development of the flow along the mid-span region is described with the help of particle image velocimetry-based flow mapping at a relatively low Reynolds number of 210,000. Several interesting observations were made, but the most important one is the existence of a slow-moving thickened boundary layer feature that convects immediately behind the wake. While the calmed region that forms behind this feature can suppress the bubble, the thickened boundary layer itself is seen to have high unsteadiness and it contributes to a large momentum deficit.
Endoscope-assisted manipulator for precooling and deposition in low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope systems
Authors: Ham Ungdon , Yoon Ji-Soo , Kim Hyeonjung , Lee Jinho , Kim Tae-Hwan
Published: December 2024

We present the design and implementation of an advanced manipulator system for use in low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM) setups, specifically in an ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) chamber equipped with a bottom-loading cryostat and a superconducting magnet. This system integrates UHV-compatible endoscope assemblies, providing visual assistance for the precise alignment and transfer of the STM scanner shuttle to its receptacle. Additionally, the manipulator features an 85 K precooling stage, enabling molecule deposition on metallic substrates and STM imaging to verify surface conditions before transferring the shuttle to its receptacle at 4.2 K. This new approach enhances the operational efficiency of STM systems, particularly for low-temperature measurements in high magnetic fields, and addresses the challenges of sample contamination and thermal shock during the transfer process.
Inversion for water column sound speed profile from acoustic travel times using empirical orthogonal functions
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sreeram , K Anilkumar
Published: December 2024

An acoustic propagation experiment was conducted in the western continental shelf of India (off Kollam, Kerala) in water depth of ∼71 m with seafloor consisting of hard sandy sediments. The multipath arrival times are obtained from peaks in acoustic impulse response measurements made on a single hydrophone for two source-receiver ranges of 245 m and 320 m. The arrival times are used for inverting the water column sound speed profile (SSP) utilizing the empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs), which can completely describe large datasets. The EOFs are generated from a seasonal dataset consisting of 12 SSPs collected once every month of the year at the same location. Inversion is formulated as an optimization problem and solved by employing the method of Differential Evolution Algorithm. A ray-theory based forward propagation model is implemented to model multipath arrival times with candidate SSPs, reconstructed from the EOFs as input for the two source receiver ranges. The objective function measures mismatch between the observed and modeled travel time estimates. The SSP estimated from modeled arrival times with EOFs as search space is found to agree reasonably well with in situ SSP for the two ranges.
Bile acid–induced metabolic changes in the colon promote Enterobacteriaceae expansion and associate with dysbiosis in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Holani Ravi , Bar-Yoseph Haggai , Krekhno Zakhar , Serapio-Palacios Antonio , Moon Kyung-Mee , Stacey Richard G. , Donald Katherine A. , Deng Wanyin , Bressler Brian , Magaña Armando A. , Foster Leonard J. , Atser Michael G. , Johnson James D. , Finlay Barton
Published: December 2024

Bile acids (BAs) affect the growth of potentially pathogenic commensals, including those from the Enterobacteriaceae family, which are frequently overrepresented in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). BAs are normally reabsorbed in the ileum for recycling and are often increased in the colonic lumina of patients with IBD, including those with Crohn’s disease (CD). Here, we investigated the influence of BAs on gut colonization by Enterobacteriaceae. We found increased abundance of Enterobacteriaceae in the colonic mucosae of patients with CD with a concomitant decrease in the transporters that resorb BAs in the ileum. The increase in Enterobacteriaceae colonization was greater in the colons of patients who had undergone terminal ileum resection compared with those with intact ileum, leading us to hypothesize that BAs promote intestinal colonization by Enterobacteriaceae. Exposure of human colonic epithelial cell lines to BAs reduced mitochondrial respiration, increased oxygen availability, and enhanced the epithelial adherence of several Enterobacteriaceae members. In a publicly available human dataset, mucosal Enterobacteriaceae was negatively associated with the expression of genes related to mitochondrial function. In a murine model, increased intestinal BA availability enhanced colonization by
Escherichia coli
in a manner that depended on bacterial respiration. Together, our findings demonstrate that BAs reduce mitochondrial respiration in the colon, leading to an increase in oxygen availability that facilitates Enterobacteriaceae colonization. This identification of BAs as facilitators of host-commensal interactions may be relevant to multiple intestinal diseases.
Regulation of human papillomavirus E6 oncoprotein function via a novel ubiquitin ligase FBXO4
Authors: Vats Arushi , Braga Luca , Kavcic Nezka , Massimi Paola , Schneider Edoardo , Giacca Mauro , Laimins Laimonis A. , Banks Lawrence
Published: December 2024

Previous studies have shown that E6 interacts with the E6-associated protein (E6AP) ubiquitin-protein ligase and directs its ubiquitylation activity toward several specific cellular proteins, one of the most important of which is p53. Interestingly, E6AP not only aids in the E6-directed degradation of cellular substrates but also stabilizes the E6 protein by protecting it from proteasome-mediated degradation. However, there is no information available about the ubiquitin ligases that regulate the stability and activity of the human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 oncoprotein in the absence of E6AP. Therefore, to identify these novel ubiquitin ligases, we performed high-throughput human siRNA library screen against ubiquitin ligases in clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-edited E6AP-knockout human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells, stably expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged HPV-18E6. We found a number of ubiquitin ligases that increase the expression of GFP-tagged 18E6 upon their knockdown in the absence of E6AP. Upon validation of the interaction of 18E6 with these ubiquitin ligases in cervical cancer-derived cell lines, we found that the knockdown of ubiquitin ligase F-box protein 4 (FBXO4), together with E6AP knockdown, leads to a dramatic increase in the levels of endogenous HPV-18E6 oncoprotein. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that the combined knockdown of FBXO4 and E6AP not only rescues the protein levels of E6 but also induces high levels of cell death in a p53-dependent manner in the HPV-positive cervical cancer cell line, HeLa. These results indicate a close interplay between FBXO4, E6AP, and p53 in the regulation of cell survival in HPV-positive cervical tumor-derived cells.

IMPORTANCE

E6-associated protein (E6AP)-mediated stabilization of human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 plays a crucial role in the development and progression of cervical and other HPV-associated cancers. This study, for the first time, identifies a novel ubiquitin ligase, FBXO4 that targets the degradation of HPV E6 oncoprotein in the absence of E6AP in cervical cancer-derived cell lines. This may have significant implications for our understanding of HPV-associated cancers by providing deeper insights into the intricate interplay between viral proteins and host cellular machinery and the development of targeted therapies.
The pneumococcal bacteriocin streptococcin B is produced as part of the early competence cascade and promotes intraspecies competition
Authors: Richardson J. D. , Guo Emily , Wyllie Ryan M. , Jensen Paul , Dawid Suzanne
Published: December 2024

Streptococcus pneumoniae
is an important human pathogen that normally resides in the human nasopharynx. Competence-mediated bacteriocin expression by
S. pneumoniae
plays a major role in both the establishment and persistence of colonization on this polymicrobial surface. Over 20 distinct bacteriocin loci have been identified in pneumococcal genomes, but only a small number have been characterized phenotypically. In this work, we demonstrate that three-fourths of
S. pneumoniae
strains contain a highly conserved
scb
locus that encodes an active lactococcin 972-like bacteriocin called streptococcin B. In these backgrounds, the
scbABC
locus is part of the early competence cascade due to a ComE binding site in the promoter region. Streptococcin B producing strains target both members of the population that have failed to activate competence and the 25% of the population that carry a naturally occurring deletion of the ComE binding site and the functional bacteriocin gene. The ComR-type regulator found directly upstream of the
scb
locus in
S. pneumoniae
strains can activate
scb
expression independent of the presence of the ComE binding site but only when stimulated by a peptide that is encoded in the
scb
locus of
Streptococcus pseudopneumoniae
, a closely related bacterium that also inhabits the human nasopharynx. Given the co-regulation with competence and the phenotypic confirmation of activity, streptococcin B represents a previously unrecognized fratricide effector that gives producing strains an additional advantage over the naturally occurring deleted strains during colonization.

IMPORTANCE

Streptococcus pneumoniae
is a common cause of pneumonia, meningitis, sinusitis, and otitis media. In order to successfully colonize humans, a prerequisite to the development of invasive disease,
S. pneumoniae
must compete with other bacterial inhabitants of the nasal surface for space and nutrients. Bacteriocins are small antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria that typically target neighboring bacteria by disruption of the cell surface.
S. pnuemoniae
encodes a large number of potential bacteriocin, but, for most, their role in competitive interactions has not been defined. This work demonstrates that isolates that produce the bacteriocin streptococcin B have an advantage over non-producers. These observations contribute to our understanding of the competitive interactions that precede the development of
S. pneumoniae
disease.
Split-Cre-mediated GFP expression as a permanent marker for flagellar fusion of
Trypanosoma brucei
in its tsetse fly host
Authors: Etzensperger Ruth , Benninger Mattias , Pozzi Berta , Rehmann Ruth , Naguleswaran Arunasalam , Schumann Gabriela , Van Den Abbeele Jan , Roditi Isabel
Published: December 2024

Trypanosomes have different ways of communicating with each other. While communication via quorum sensing, or by the release and uptake of extracellular vesicles, is widespread in nature, the phenomenon of flagellar fusion has only been observed in
Trypanosoma brucei
. We showed previously that a small proportion of procyclic culture forms (corresponding to insect midgut forms) can fuse their flagella and exchange cytosolic and membrane proteins. This happens reproducibly in cell culture. It was not known, however, if flagellar fusion also occurs in the tsetse fly host, and at what stage of the life cycle. We have developed a split-Cre-Lox system to permanently label trypanosomes that undergo flagellar fusion. Specifically, we engineered trypanosomes to contain a GFP gene flanked by Lox sites in the reverse orientation to the promoter. In addition, the cells expressed inactive halves of the Cre recombinase, either N-terminal Cre residues 1–244 (N-Cre) or C-terminal Cre residues 245–343 (C-Cre). Upon flagellar fusion, these Cre halves were exchanged between trypanosomes, forming functional full Cre and flipping reverse-GFP into its forward orientation. We showed that cells that acquired the second half Cre through flagellar fusion were permanently modified and that the cells and their progeny constitutively expressed GFP. When tsetse flies were co-infected with N-Cre and C-Cre cells, GFP-positive trypanosomes were observed in the midgut and proventriculus 28–34 days post-infection. These results show that flagellar fusion not only happens in culture but also during the natural life cycle of trypanosomes in their tsetse fly host.

IMPORTANCE

We have established a procedure to permanently label pairs of trypanosomes that transiently fuse their flagella and exchange proteins. When this occurs, a reporter gene is permanently flipped from the “off” to the “on” position, resulting in the production of green fluorescent protein. Crucially, green trypanosomes can be detected in tsetse flies co-infected with the two cell lines, proving that flagellar fusion occurs in the host. To our knowledge, we are the first to describe a split-Cre-Lox system for lineage tracing and selection in trypanosomes. In addition to its use in trypanosomes, this system could be adapted for other parasites and in other contexts. For example, it could be used to determine whether flagellar fusion occurs in related parasites such as Leishmania and
Trypanosoma cruzi
or to monitor whether intracellular parasites and their hosts exchange proteins.
Genome sequences of two
Klebsiella
phages isolated from wastewater treatment samples that infect a clinical
Klebsiella
isolate
Authors: Lewis Jessica M. , Arens Daniel K. , Quaye Abraham , Calvopina-Chavez Diana G. , Jensen Kyson T. , Miller Ashley K. , Moss Melinda M. , Warren M. Elizabeth , Tavana Justina P. , Johnson Steven M. , Grose Julianne H.
Published: December 2024

We announce the complete genomes of
Klebsiella
phages ValerieMcCarty03 and ValerieMcCarty04 isolated from wastewater treatment plant samples that infect a multidrug-resistant
Klebsiella oxytoca
clinical isolate. These phages belong to the T4-like cluster and fall within the
Jiaodavirus
genus.
Draft genome of
Talaromyces
sp. UPCC 4333, from
Senna alata
flowers, displayed a remarkable diversity of potentially novel biosynthetic gene clusters
Authors: Eugenio Rafael B. , Gloria Paul Christian T. , Relucio-San Diego Mary Ann Cielo V.
Published: December 2024

Here, we report the draft genome of
Talaromyces
sp. UPCC 4333, isolated from
Senna alata
flowers, with a size of 31.3 Mb and 92.9% BUSCO completeness. The genome contains at least 39 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters which merit further investigation in the future.
Draft genome sequence of endophyte
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
strain Apn01R, isolated from the roots of
Alhagi pseudalhagi
(Bieb.) Fisch
Authors: Chebotar Vladimir K. , Myskova Anna V. , Khudyaeva Margarita , Keleinikova Oksana V. , Baganova Maria E. , Zaplatkin Alexander N. , Pishchik Veronika N. , Chizhevskaya Elena P.
Published: December 2024

In this article, we announce the sequence and draft analysis of the genome of endophyte
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
strain Apn01R, isolated from the roots of
Alhagi pseudalhagi
(Bieb.) Fisch. Our results show genes that may be crucial to defy abiotic stress and repel bacterial and fungal pathogens.
Draft genome sequence and analysis of endophyte
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
strain Can02R isolated from the roots of
Chenopodium album
L.
Authors: Chebotar Vladimir K. , Myskova Anna V. , Khudyaeva Margarita , Keleinikova Oksana V. , Baganova Maria E. , Zaplatkin Alexander N. , Pishchik Veronika N. , Chizhevskaya Elena P.
Published: December 2024

In this study, we sequence, assemble, and analyze the genome of endophyte
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
Can02R isolated from the roots of the resurrection plant host,
Chenopodium album
. The assembly of the strain’s genome amounts to 3,965,760 bp and contains 3,989 coding sequences, among which synthetic antibiotic clusters and multidrug resistance transporters can be found.
Alternative organic nutrients for soybean and their comparison with fertilizer
Authors: Mukungu Laetitia V. , Entz Martin H. , Tenuta Mario
Published: December 2024

Novel manures (rabbit and black soldier fly) were compared with traditional amendments on soybean ( Glycine max L.) grown in low P soil in greenhouse experiments. Ground rabbit manure (GRM) had higher aboveground biomass and tissue P concentration than composted beef manure, anaerobic digestate, and monoammonium phosphate but similar to insect frass. Compared to the control, GRM and insect frass had higher arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) colonization, 17% and 29% increase, respectively, in one experiment. GRM and insect frass demonstrated advantages in P supply associated with higher AMF.
Experimental search potential for sbottom via χ̃1± decays at the LHC Run-3 and HL-LHC, in final states with same-sign leptons and multiple jets
Authors: Ducu Otilia
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the experimental search potential for sbottom pair production in an R-parity conserving scenario at the LHC Run-3 and HL-LHC. The sbottom decays with a 100% BR via a chargino, [Formula: see text], which subsequently decays to a W boson and a neutralino, [Formula: see text], also with a 100% BR. The study follows the ATLAS object definitions and event selection criteria from [ATLAS Collab., J. High Energy Phys. 06, 046 (2020), arXiv:1909.08457 [hep-ex]], focusing on Rpc2L1b and Rpc2L2b signal regions defined with same-sign leptons and at least one b-tagged jet. Projected exclusion limits are presented in the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] mass plane for three center-of-mass energies (13, 13.6 and 14[Formula: see text]TeV) and three integrated luminosity scenarios (139, 300 and 3000[Formula: see text]fb[Formula: see text]).
A nonstandard Standard Model
Authors: LaChapelle J.
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the Standard Model under the strong–electroweak symmetry group [Formula: see text] subject to the Lie algebra condition [Formula: see text]. Physically, the condition ensures that all electroweak gauge bosons interact with each other prior to symmetry breaking — as one might expect from [Formula: see text] invariance. This represents a crucial shift in the identification of physical gauge bosons: Unlike the Standard Model which posits a change of Lie algebra basis induced by spontaneous symmetry breaking, here the basis is unaltered and A, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] represent the physical bosons both before and after spontaneous symmetry breaking.

Our choice of [Formula: see text] requires some modification of the matter field representation of the Standard Model. The group [Formula: see text] admits two pertinent defining representations, [Formula: see text] and its [Formula: see text]-conjugate [Formula: see text], related by a large gauge transformation. Accordingly, the product group structure calls for strong–electroweak degrees of freedom in the [Formula: see text] and the [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] that possess integer electric charge just like leptons. These degrees of freedom play the role of quarks, and they lead to a modified Lagrangian that nevertheless reproduces transition rates and cross-sections equivalent to the Standard Model. In particular, they reproduce the fractional electric charge of quark currents.

The close resemblance between quark and lepton electroweak doublets in this picture suggests a mechanism for a speculative phase transition between quarks and leptons that stems from the product structure of the symmetry group. Our hypothesis is that the strong and electroweak bosons see each other as a source of decoherence. In effect, lepton representations get identified with the [Formula: see text]-trace-reduced quark representations. This mechanism allows for possible extensions of the Standard Model that do not require large inclusive multiplets of matter fields and might explain the Higgs as a pseudo Nambu–Goldstone boson.
Analysis of Student Learning Behavior on Online Education Platforms Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Sheng , Zhao Jiabi
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning (DL) techniques are increasingly used in education because of advancements in online learning platforms and their ongoing implementation. The existing methods suffer from low-processing efficiency, high prediction error, and increased memory requirements when faced with vast learning and student behavior data. Thus, based on DL, this research suggests a way to analyze student behavior in e-learning. Data on student behavior are gathered, and a learning behavior model for online learning is created. The proposed optimal DL approach aims to screen the collected behavior data using data preparation, analysis, and statistics. Additionally, the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) approach is employed to determine the degree of data similarity. The novelty of the research is followed by utilizing an optimized DL network, known as a deep neural network with red deer optimization (ODNN-RDO), to mine students’ behavior data in e-learning programs. Two datasets, metrics including accuracy, precision, and recall, together with error measures like relative error, the root mean square error (RMSE), and absolute error, are utilized to test the created models. The improved generated models achieved 98.15% accuracy and 0–0.04% error compared to the current methods. The optimization procedure subsequently optimizes the components to acquire the best outcomes regarding faculty and parent performance monitoring of students. With effective monitoring, this model maximizes the e-learning platform for planning student growth.