bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The skin microbiome in the first year of life and its association with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Rapin Alexis , Rehbinder Eva Maria , Macowan Matthew , Pattaroni Céline , Lødrup Carlsen Karin C. , Harris Nicola L. , Jonassen Christine M. , Landrø Linn , Lossius Astrid H. , Nordlund Björn , Rudi Knut , Skjerven Håvard O. , Cathrine Staff Anne , Söderhäll Cilla , Ubags Niki , Vettukattil Riyas , Marsland Benjamin J.
Published: February 2023

Background

Early‐life microbial colonization of the skin may modulate the immune system and impact the development of atopic dermatitis (AD) and allergic diseases later in life. To address this question, we assessed the association between the skin microbiome and AD, skin barrier integrity and allergic diseases in the first year of life. We further explored the evolution of the skin microbiome with age and its possible determinants, including delivery mode.

Methods

Skin microbiome was sampled from the lateral upper arm on the first day of life, and at 3, 6, and 12 months of age. Bacterial communities were assessed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing in 346 infants from the PreventADALL population‐based birth cohort study, representing 970 samples. Clinical investigations included skin examination and skin barrier function measured as trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL) at the site and time of microbiome sampling at 3, 6, and 12 months. Parental background information was recorded in electronic questionnaires, and delivery mode (including vaginal delivery (VD), VD in water, elective caesarean section (CS) and emergency CS) was obtained from maternal hospital charts.

Results

Strong temporal variations in skin bacterial community composition were found in the first year of life, with distinct patterns associated with different ages. Confirming our hypothesis, skin bacterial community composition in the first year of life was associated with skin barrier integrity and later onsets of AD. Delivery mode had a strong impact on the microbiome composition at birth, with each mode leading to distinct patterns of colonization. Other possible determinants of the skin microbiome were identified, including environmental and parental factors as well as breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Skin microbiome composition during infancy is defined by age, transiently influenced by delivery mode as well as environmental, parental factors and breastfeeding. The microbiome is also associated with skin barrier integrity and the onset of AD.
The MAEL expression in mitochondria of human spermatozoa and the association with asthenozoospermia
Authors: Cheng Yu‐Sheng , Chen Hsing‐Yi , Lin Yu‐Chiao , Lin Yi‐Syuan , Yeh Yi‐Chun , Yeh Yi‐Hsuan , Cheng Yung‐Hsuan , Lin Yung‐Ming , Weng Han‐Yu , Lin Tsung‐Yen , Lin Shih‐Chieh
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The maelstrom spermatogenic transposon silencer (MAEL) function in postmeiotic germ cells remains unclear, and its protein localization in human testis and spermatozoa awaits determination. This study aims to clarify the MAEL expression in human spermatogenesis and to explore its role in sperm function.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐seven asthenozoospermic men, 40 normozoospermic controls, and three obstructive azoospermic men were enrolled. The transcripts of MAEL in the seminiferous epithelium and MAEL downstream targets were identified by bioinformatics analysis. MAEL protein expression in human testis and ejaculated sperms were examined by immunohistochemical and immunogold staining, respectively. The roles of MAEL in mitochondria function were investigated by siRNA knockdown in human H358 cells. The association between MAEL protein levels and clinical sperm features was evaluated.

Results

Abundant MAEL was expressed in spermatid and spermatozoa of the human testis. Remarkably, MAEL was located in the mitochondria of ejaculated sperm, and bioinformatics analysis identified GPX4 and UBL4B as MAEL's downstream targets. Knockdown of MAEL sabotaged mitochondria function and reduced adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in H358 cells. MAEL, GPX4, and UBL4B expression levels were significantly decreased in asthenozoospermic sperms than in controls. The MAEL protein levels were positively correlated with GPX4 and UBL4B in human sperm. Total motile sperm count (TMSC) was positively correlated with protein levels of MAEL, GPX4, and UBL4B in ejaculated sperms.

Conclusions

We highlight prominent MAEL expression in the intratesticular spermatid and the mitochondria of ejaculated spermatozoa. MAEL directly binds to GPX4 and UBL4B, and loss of MAEL induces mitochondrial dysfunction. MAEL‐mitochondrial function‐motility relationship might advance our understanding of the causes of asthenozoospermia.
Simulating peers: Can puppets simulate peer interactions in studies on children's socio‐cognitive development?
Authors: Stengelin Roman , Haun Daniel B. M. , Kanngiesser Patricia
Published: February 2023

Interactions with peers are fundamental to socio‐cognitive development, but assessing peer interactions in standardized experiments is challenging. Therefore, researchers commonly utilize puppetry to simulate peers. This Registered Report investigated urban German children's (AgeRange = 3.5–4.5 years; N = 144; 76♀) mind ascriptions and social cognition to test whether they treat puppets like peers, adults, or neither. Children attributed less mind properties to puppets than peers or adults. However, children's social cognition (i.e., normativity, prosociality, and theory of mind) varied little across partners. Puppetry relies on children's ability for pretense, but can provide valid insights into socio‐cognitive development. Implications for using puppets as stand‐ins for peers in developmental research are discussed.
Behavioural and cognitive‐behavioural theories in oral health research: Current state and future directions
Authors: McNeil Daniel W.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Behavioural and cognitive‐behavioural theories, models and frameworks have been incorporated for decades in behavioural and social oral health sciences, oral health care, and education of dentists, hygienists, and other oral healthcare professionals.

Methods

While a myriad of these conceptualizations have been incorporated in this work, there are six of them that have had the greatest impact in the oral health arena: (a) Health Belief Model; (b) Theory of Reasoned Action, Theory of Planned Behavior and Integrated Behavioral Model, which are considered in unison; (c) Social Learning Theory and Social Cognitive Theory which are considered together; (d) Transtheoretical Model/Stages of Change Model; (e) Salutogenesis Model/Theory and Sense of Coherence Framework; and the (f) Behavior Change Wheel, Capability‐Opportunity‐Motivation‐Behavior Model and Theoretical Domains Framework, which are categorized together.

Results

An analysis of nomenclature (i.e. theories, models, frameworks and conceptualizations) is provided in the context of a description of each of these theories and models, with discussion about their aspects that particularly relate to oral health. Additionally, a quantitative, longitudinal view is provided of the frequency of use of these theories and models in the oral health arena. Given the benefits of theory‐based intervention development, dissemination and implementation, it is important to consider these theories and models in a collective context.

Conclusions

At a basic level, these theories and models help in identifying and acting on mechanisms, both of behaviour itself and behaviour change. Future directions are discussed in terms of need for theory evolution and development.
The hybrid protein BTH2 suppresses allergic airway inflammation in a murine model of HDM‐specific immunotherapy
Authors: da Silva Eduardo Santos , de Santana Marina Borges Rabelo , Silveira Elisânia Fontes , Torres Rogério Tanan , Silva Raphael Chagas , Fernandes Antônio Márcio Santana , Belitardo Emília Maria Medeiros de Andrade , Garcés Luis Fabián Salazar , Santiago Leonardo Freire , Urrego Juan Ricardo , Vilas‐Bôas Deise Souza , de Freitas Luiz Antônio Rodrigues , Zakzuk Josefina , Pacheco Luis Gustavo Carvalho , Cruz Álvaro Augusto , Ferreira Fatima , Cooper Philip , Caraballo Luis , Pinheiro Carina da Silva , Alcantara‐Neves Neuza Maria
Published: February 2023

Background

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease‐modifying treatment approach to change disease‐causing allergens. Hypoallergenic derivatives show promise as potential therapeutics, amongst which BTH2 was designed to induce tolerance against Blomia tropicalis allergy. Our aim was to investigate the hypoallergenicity and immunoregulatory activity of BTH2 in vitro and its therapeutic potential in a mouse model of AIT.

Methods

Recombinant Blo t 5 and Blo t 21 allergens and their hybrid derivatives (BTH1 and BTH2) were expressed and purified. IgE binding capacity was tested by ELISA using sera from Brazilian, Colombian, and Ecuadorian subjects. Secretion of cytokines in supernatants from human cell cultures was measured following stimulation with the four recombinants and controls. The capacity of BTH2 to ameliorate allergic airway inflammation induced by B. tropicalis extract was evaluated in a murine model of AIT.

Results

rBlo t 5 and rBlo t 21 were identified as major allergens in Latin American patients, and BTH2 had the lowest IgE binding. In vitro stimulation of human cells induced greater levels of IL‐10 and IFN‐γ and reduced the secretion of Th2 cytokines. BTH2 ameliorated allergic airway inflammation in B. tropicalis‐challenged A/J mice, as evidenced by the histopathological and humoral biomarkers: decreased Th2 cytokines and cellular infiltration (especially eosinophils), lower activity of eosinophil peroxidase, an increase in IgG blocking antibodies and strong reduction of mucus production by goblet cells.

Conclusions

Our study shows that BTH2 represents a promising candidate for the treatment of B. tropicalis allergy with hypoallergenic, immune regulatory and therapeutic properties. Further pre‐clinical studies are required in murine models of chronic asthma to further address the efficacy and safety of BTH2 as a vaccine against B. tropicalis‐induced allergy.
Peracetic acid bleaching of banana fibre: Process optimisation
Authors: Chattopadhyay S. N. , Samanta Kartick K. , Ammayappan L. , Ghosh R. K.
Published: February 2023

Banana is an important commercially available natural fibre, suitable for making coarse yarns. It has also potential for making fine home and apparel textiles after requisite chemical intervention or blending with other fine fibres. For making such products, chemical processing, namely bleaching, coloration and finishing, play an important role. Bleaching of fibre is generally carried out in highly alkaline condition and at high temperature of 85°C using hydrogen peroxide to achieve whiteness index of > 70 with about 25% loss in tensile strength. To achieve a similar whiteness index, while addressing strength loss, a fibre friendly low‐temperature low‐alkali based peracetic acid (PAA) bleaching of banana fibre has been proposed in the present article. Important bleaching process parameters, namely PAA concentration (10–30 g/L), time (60–180 min) and temperature (60–80°C), have been varied for optimisation of the bleaching process. Banana fibre bleaching using PAA concentration of 20 g/L at 70°C for 2 h can produce fibre with whiteness index of > 70, which is suitable for subsequent coloration. The PAA bleached banana fibre can retain 84% of its bundle strength and 95.6% of its weight. Physical (strength, fineness), chemical (attenuated total reflectance Fourier‐transform infrared [ATR‐FTIR], energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy [EDX]), optical (colour) and morphological (scanning electron microscopy [SEM]) properties of banana fibres before and after bleaching were evaluated to study the efficacy of the process.
Phase 2 trial in acetylcholine receptor antibody‐positive myasthenia gravis of transition from intravenous to subcutaneous immunoglobulin: The MGSCIg study
Authors: Pasnoor Mamatha , Bril Vera , Levine Todd , Trivedi Jaya , Silvestri Nicholas J. , Phadnis Milind , Katzberg Hans D. , Saperstein David S. , Wolfe Gil I. , Herbelin Laura , Higgs Kiley , Heim Andrew J. , Statland Jeffrey M. , Barohn Richard J. , Dimachkie Mazen M.
Published: February 2023

Background and purpose

Data on maintenance therapy with subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) in myasthenia gravis (MG) are limited. We report on transitioning acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody‐positive (Ab+) MG patients on stable intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) regimens as part of routine clinical care to SCIg 1:1.2.

Methods

This multicenter North American open‐label prospective investigator‐initiated study had two components: the IVIg Stabilization Period (ISP) enrolling patients already on IVIg as part of routine clinical care (Weeks −10 to −1), followed by transition of stable MG subjects to SCIg in the Experimental Treatment Period (ETP; Weeks 0 to 12). We hypothesized that >65% of patients entering the ETP would have a stable Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) score from Week 0 to Week 12. Secondary outcome measures included other efficacy measures, safety, tolerability, IgG levels, and treatment satisfaction.

Results

We recruited 23 patients in the ISP, and 22 entered the ETP. A total of 12 subjects (54.5%) were female, and 18 (81.8%) were White, with mean age 51.4 ± 17 years. We obtained Week 12 ETP QMG data on 19 of 22; one subject withdrew from ETP owing to clinical deterioration, and two subjects withdrew due to dislike of needles. On primary analysis, 19 of 22 participants (86.4%, 95% confidence interval = 0.72–1.00) were treatment successes using last observation carried forward (p = 0.018). Secondary efficacy measures supported MG stability. SCIg was safe and well tolerated, and IgG levels were stable. Treatment satisfaction was comparable between ISP and ETP.

Conclusions

MG patients on IVIg as part of their routine clinical care remained stable on monthly IVIg dosage, and most maintained similar disease stability on SCIg.
WWOXdevelopmental and epileptic encephalopathy: Understanding the epileptology and the mortality risk
Authors: Oliver Karen L. , Trivisano Marina , Mandelstam Simone A. , De Dominicis Angela , Francis David I. , Green Timothy E. , Muir Alison M. , Chowdhary Apoorva , Hertzberg Christoph , Goldhahn Klaus , Metreau Julia , Prager Christine , Pinner Jason , Cardamone Michael , Myers Kenneth A. , Leventer Richard J. , Lesca Gaetan , Bahlo Melanie , Hildebrand Michael S. , Mefford Heather C. , Kaindl Angela M. , Specchio Nicola , Scheffer Ingrid E.
Published: February 2023

Objective

WWOXis an autosomal recessive cause of early infantile developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (WWOX‐DEE), also known as WOREE (WWOX‐related epileptic encephalopathy). We analyzed the epileptology and imaging features ofWWOX‐DEE, and investigated genotype–phenotype correlations, particularly with regard to survival.

Methods

We studied 13 patients from 12 families withWWOX‐DEE. Information regarding seizure semiology, comorbidities, facial dysmorphisms, and disease outcome were collected. Electroencephalographic (EEG) and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were analyzed. PathogenicWWOXvariants from our cohort and the literature were coded as either null or missense, allowing individuals to be classified into one of three genotype classes: (1) null/null, (2) null/missense, (3) missense/missense. Differences in survival outcome were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

All patients experienced multiple seizure types (median onset = 5 weeks, range = 1 day–10 months), the most frequent being focal (85%), epileptic spasms (77%), and tonic seizures (69%). Ictal EEG recordings in six of 13 patients showed tonic (n = 5), myoclonic (n = 2), epileptic spasms (n = 2), focal (n = 1), and migrating focal (n = 1) seizures. Interictal EEGs demonstrated slow background activity with multifocal discharges, predominantly over frontal or temporo‐occipital regions. Eleven of 13 patients had a movement disorder, most frequently dystonia. Brain MRIs revealed severe frontotemporal, hippocampal, and optic atrophy, thin corpus callosum, and white matter signal abnormalities. Pathogenic variants were located throughoutWWOXand comprised both missense and null changes including five copy number variants (four deletions, one duplication). Survival analyses showed that patients with two null variants are at higher mortality risk (p‐value = .0085, log‐rank test).

Significance

BiallelicWWOXpathogenic variants cause an early infantile developmental and epileptic encephalopathy syndrome. The most common seizure types are focal seizures and epileptic spasms. Mortality risk is associated with mutation type; patients with biallelic nullWWOXpathogenic variants have significantly lower survival probability compared to those carrying at least one presumed hypomorphic missense pathogenic variant.
Oral self‐care among dependent older New Zealanders
Authors: Xue Cindy , Al‐Jassasi Noor , Thomson William M. , Adam Lee , Smith Moira B.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

The objective of the study was to describe the occurrence and associations of oral self‐care by dependent older New Zealanders.

Background

Dependent older adults who require some level of assisted daily care have been shown to have poorer oral health than their independent counterparts, yet national estimates are lacking.

Materials and methods

A secondary analysis was conducted of data from New Zealand's 2012 Older People's Oral Health Survey, a national survey that interviewed and examined a representative sample of 2,218 dependent older adults living in aged residential care or receiving home‐based care. Survey data were weighted for statistical analyses, and modelling was carried out using a modified Poisson approach.

Results

Overall, 59.5% (95% CI: 55.1, 63.7) of participants brushed their teeth twice a day, with this rate higher among women, Asians and those without cognitive or physical impairment. Cleaning interdentally at least once a week was less common than brushing, at 25.9% (95% CI: 21.5, 30.9), and that proportion was significantly lower among those with higher dependency or who were cognitively or physically impaired. Almost 9 in 10 (87.8%; 95% CI 83.1, 91.4) used fluoride toothpaste, and adults of high socio‐economic status had lower rates of fluoride toothpaste use. Only 15.0% (95% CI 12.4, 18.0) used mouthwash, with this being most prevalent in Pasifika. More than half of those who wore dentures also wore them at night.

Conclusion

Oral self‐care was sub‐optimal among dependent older New Zealanders. Improving the situation should be a high priority.
When the chickens come home to roost: The short‐ versus long‐term performance implications of government contracting and supplier network structure
Authors: Falcone Ellie C. , Carnovale Steven , Fugate Brian S. , Williams Brent D.
Published: February 2023

The old adage “it is not what you know, but who you know” suggests that in connection(s) lies the key(s) to success. But what does success mean, and for how long will it last? What does the choice of partner, and network connections say about the performance implications of contracting, particularly in the case of a public–private partnership? With countries such as the United States accounting for the world's largest buyer (of any and everything), several suppliers eagerly await their opportunity to contract with large government entities, but is it always a wise decision? Such questions remain largely unexplored and require answers. This research provides answers to these questions by integrating congruence, and network theory to investigate how government contracting impacts private suppliers' financial performance and how suppliers' supply chain network connections moderate this relationship. Results using panel data over several years suggest that while contracting with government bolsters' short‐term financial performance (ROA), it negatively affects long‐term supplier performance (Tobin's Q). In addition, the prominence of a firm's connections (i.e., who they know) and the composition of these connections enhances the performance gains, highlighting the critical role of a firm's network structure on their performance within the contracting relationship. We therefore find that the power of supply chain network connections enhances the short‐term positive effects and mitigates the long‐term adverse effects when contracting with government buyers, as the relationship is not always universally positive.
Health‐related quality of life in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis: A longitudinal population‐based cohort study
Authors: Mol Bregje , van Munster Kim N. , Bogaards Johannes A. , Weersma Rinse K. , Inderson Akin , de Groof E. Joline , Rossen Noortje G. M. , Ponsioen Willemijn , Turkenburg Maud , van Erpecum Karel J. , Poen Alexander C. , Spanier B. W. Marcel , Beuers Ulrich H. W. , Ponsioen Cyriel Y. ,   the EpiPSC2 study group
Published: February 2023

Background & Aims

Data regarding health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are sparse and have only been studied cross‐sectionally in a disease which runs a fluctuating and unpredictable course. We aim to describe HRQoL longitudinally by using repeated measurements in a population‐based cohort.

Methods

Every 3 months from May 2017 up to August 2020, patients received digital questionnaires at home. These included the EQ‐5D, 5‐D Itch, patient‐based SCCAI and patient‐based HBI. The SF‐36, measuring HRQoL over eight dimensions as well as a physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) score, was sent annually. Data were compared with Dutch reference data and a matched IBD disease control from the population‐based POBASIC cohort. Mixed‐effects modelling was performed to identify factors associated with HRQoL.

Results

Three hundred twenty‐eight patients completed 2576 questionnaires. A significant reduction of small clinical relevance in several mean HRQoL scores was found compared with the Dutch reference population: 46.4 versus 48.0, p = .018 for PCS and 47.5 versus 50.5, p = .004 for MCS scores. HRQoL outcomes were significantly negatively associated with coexisting active IBD (PCS −12.2, p < .001 and MCS −12.0, p < .001), which was not the case in case of quiescent IBD. Decreasing HRQoL scores were also negatively associated with increasing age (PCS −0.1 per 10 years, p = .002), female sex (PCS ‐2.8, p < .001), diagnosis of AIH overlap (PCS ‐3.7, p = .059), end‐stage liver disease (PCS ‐3.7, p = .015) and presence of itch (PCS ‐9.2, p < .001 and MCS −3.1, p = .078). The odds of reporting a clinically relevant reduction in EQ‐5D scores showed seasonal variation, being lowest in summer (OR = 0.48 relative to spring, p = .037). In patients with liver transplant, HRQoL outcomes were comparable to the Dutch general population.

Conclusions

PSC patients report impaired HRQoL of small clinical relevance compared with the general population. After liver transplantation, HRQoL scores are at comparable levels to the general population. HRQoL scores are associated with potentially modifiable factors such as itch and IBD activity.
Clues for inflammatory diseases in the differential diagnosis of a child with sacroiliitis
Authors: Karagöl Cüneyt , Güngörer Vildan , Ekici Tekin Zahide , Çelikel Elif , Aydın Fatma , Kurt Tuba , Tekgöz Nilüfer , Sezer Müge , Coşkun Serkan , Kaplan Melike Mehveş , Öner Nimet , Polat Merve Guler , Tiftik Mehmet , Tıgrak Sefa , Dereci Selim , Hızlı Şamil , Acar Banu Çelikel
Published: February 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients with enthesitis‐related arthritis (ERA), familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which are inflammatory diseases that may develop sacroiliitis. Thus, it was aimed to reveal various findings that may indicate primary disease in patients with sacroiliitis.

Methods

Pediatric patients aged 6–18 years, who were being followed with a diagnosis of ERA (n = 62), FMF (n = 590), and IBD (n = 56) over the period 2013–2021 were included in the study. Sacroiliitis (n = 55) was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging of the sacroiliac joint, obtained from clinically suspected patients.

Results

Sacroiliitis was detected in 54.8% of ERA patients, 2.3% of FMF patients, and 12.5% of IBD patients. The mean follow‐up period was 4.1 ± 2.8 years (10 months‐8 years) for the entire study group. The most common MRI finding for sacroiliitis was bone marrow edema. Peripheral joint involvement (73.5%) and HLA B27 positivity (64.7%) was significantly higher in ERA patients, and ERA was diagnosed more frequently in patients presenting with sacroiliitis. Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were the first choice of treatment agent when sacroiliitis developed in all three patient groups.

Conclusions

The clinical and laboratory findings of ERA, FMF and IBD can sometimes be intertwined or can even coexist. Treatment may differ depending on the disease associated with sacroiliitis, although NSAIDs may be used in the first‐line treatment of all three diseases. Sacroiliitis patients with HLA B27 positivity and peripheral arthritis may need to be addressed as ERA.
Circ_0068631 sponges miR‐139‐5p to promote the growth and metastasis of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by upregulating HOXB7
Authors: Ji Jun , Xiong Chengcheng , Peng Jing , Zhang Niannian , Zhang Yan , Yang Honghong , Zhu Wenwen
Published: February 2023

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are often dysregulated in cancers and closely related to cancer progression, including cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). However, the role and mechanism of circ_0068631 in CSCC progression have not been reported.

Methods

The expression of circ_0068631, microRNA‐139‐5p (miR‐139‐5p), and homeobox B7 (HOXB7) was measured by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, and colony formation assay were used to measure cell proliferation. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Cell migration was detected by transwell assay. The interaction between miR‐139‐5p and circ_0068631 or HOXB7 was confirmed by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. A xenograft tumor model was established to confirm the function of circ_0068631 in vivo.

Results

Circ_0068631 was upregulated in CSCC tissues and cells, and its silencing could inhibit CSCC cell proliferation and metastasis while promoting apoptosis in vitro, as well as restrain CSCC tumor growth in vivo. Circ_0068631 acted as a sponge of miR‐139‐5p, and miR‐139‐5p inhibition reversed the repressive effect of circ_0068631 knockdown on CSCC cell progression. Furthermore, HOXB7 was a target of miR‐139‐5p, and miR‐139‐5p inhibited the malignant behaviors by downregulating HOXB7 expression in CSCC cells. Further, circ_0068631 sponged miR‐139‐5p to regulate HOXB7 expression.

Conclusion

Circ_0068631 functioned as a novel oncogene in CSCC progression by regulating miR‐139‐5p/HOXB7 axis, suggesting that circ_0068631 may be a potential target for CSCC treatment.

Highlights

Circ_0068631 was overexpressed in CSCC tissues and cells.

Circ_0068631 downregulation suppressed CSCC progression via miR‐139‐5p.

Circ_0068631 regulated HOXB7 via sponging miR‐139‐5p.
Roll-to-roll reactive ion etching of large-area nanostructure arrays in Si: Process development, characterization, and optimization
Authors: Ghaznavi Ziam , Butcher Nicholas , Djurdjanovic Dragan , Sreenivasan S. V.
Published: February 2023

Roll-to-roll (R2R) nanofabrication processes are recognized as key enabling-technologies for many next-generation applications in flexible electronics, displays, energy generation, storage, as well as healthcare. However, R2R processing techniques reported in the literature currently lack a scalable method of performing high-throughput nanoscale pattern transfer of geometry requiring a high degree of fidelity in terms of critical dimension resolution, etch uniformity, and aspect ratio. Reactive ion etching (RIE) addresses the need for sub-10 nm pattern transfer with large-area uniformity in wafer-scale semiconductor manufacturing, but adapting plasma etch systems for use in R2R nanopatterning has proven to be nontrivial. Moreover, robust models for simulating R2R RIE do not exist, which is an obstacle to the creation of computational approaches to design, control, and scale-up of nanoscale R2R equipment and processes. To address these challenges, we demonstrate a process flow for fabricating Si nanopillar arrays utilizing a combination of nanoimprint lithography and RIE with all pattern transfer steps performed using a R2R plasma reactor system. Specifically discussed are process development details for etching imprint resist and Si including etch rates, cross-web etch uniformity, etch directionality, and etch selectivity at varying gas chemistries, powers, and pressures. 2k full-factorial Design of Experiments (DoEs) and ordinary least-squares regression analysis are also employed to study influence of process parameters on multiple outgoing etch quality characteristics and generate stochastic models of the R2R RIE pattern transfer process into Si. Utilizing these DOE-based models and desired targets for etch quality characteristics, we describe a bounded multivariate inverse-optimization scheme for automated etch process parameter tuning. The culmination of these efforts, to the best of the authors' knowledge, is the first reported RIE-based pattern transfer of 100 nm-scale features performed in continuous R2R fashion with control of feature geometry over large area. The methodology employed herein may be applied similarly to additional materials and geometries for future applications.
African Swine Fever Virus L83L Negatively Regulates the cGAS-STING-Mediated IFN-I Pathway by Recruiting Tollip To Promote STING Autophagic Degradation
Authors: Cheng Mingyang , Kanyema Makoye Mhozya , Sun Yu , Zhao Wenhui , Lu Yiyuan , Wang Junhong , Li Xiaoxu , Shi Chunwei , Wang Jianzhong , Wang Nan , Yang Wentao , Jiang Yanlong , Huang Haibin , Yang Guilian , Zeng Yan , Wang Chunfeng , Cao Xin
Published: February 2023

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a large double-stranded DNA virus that primarily infects porcine macrophages. The ASFV genome encodes a large number of immunosuppressive proteins.
Weevil Carbohydrate Intake Triggers Endosymbiont Proliferation: A Trade-Off between Host Benefit and Endosymbiont Burden
Authors: Dell’Aglio Elisa , Lacotte Virginie , Peignier Sergio , Rahioui Isabelle , Benzaoui Fadéla , Vallier Agnès , Da Silva Pedro , Desouhant Emmanuel , Heddi Abdelaziz , Rebollo Rita
Published: February 2023

Beetles thriving on tyrosine-poor diet sources often develop mutualistic associations with endosymbionts able to synthesize aromatic amino acids. This surplus of aromatic amino acids is used to reinforce the insect’s protective cuticle.
Genome Sequences of
Comamonadaceae
Bacteria OS-1 and OS-4, Two Highly H
2
O
2
-Sensitive Strains Isolated from Pond Water
Authors: Watanabe Motoyuki , Igarashi Kensuke , Kato Souichiro , Kamagata Yoichi , Kitagawa Wataru
Published: February 2023

The
Comamonadaceae
bacterial strains OS-1 and OS-4 were isolated from pond water and were found to be highly sensitive to hydrogen peroxide in the agar plates. Here, we report the nearly complete and complete genome sequences, respectively, of these two strains.
Differences in Immune Responses in Individuals of Indian and European Origin: Relevance for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Geckin Büsra , Zoodsma Martijn , Kilic Gizem , Debisarun Priya A. , Rakshit Srabanti , Adiga Vasista , Ahmed Asma , Parthiban Chaitra , Kumar Nirutha Chetan , D’Souza George , Baltissen Marijke P. , Martens Joost H. A. , Domínguez-Andrés Jorge , Li Yang , Vyakarnam Annapurna , Netea Mihai G.
Published: February 2023

In this study, we assessed the differences in immune responses in individuals from India and Europe. This aspect is of great relevance, because of the described differences in morbidity and mortality between India and Europe during the pandemic.
Supplemental Material: Metasediments from the lower crust reveal the history of the Picuris orogeny, southwest USA
Authors: Ringwood Mary , et al.
Published: February 2023

Supplemental Data: LASS, EPMA, and XRF data. Supplemental Text: Additional information and figures.
Generation of Terahertz Radiation under the Femtosecond Laser Excitation of a Multilayer Structure Based on a-Si:H/a-SiC:H/c-Si
Authors: Andrianov A. V. , Aleshin A. N. , Abolmasov S. N. , Terukov E. I. , Beregulin E. V.
Published: February 2023

Coherent terahertz radiation has been generated in p–n heterostructures based on a-Si:H/a-SiC:H/c-Si excited by 800-nm femtosecond laser pulses at room temperature. Terahertz radiation is generated when a reverse bias voltage is applied to heterostructures. The properties of the generated terahertz radiation strongly depend on the bias voltage, which reflects the dynamics of nonequilibrium charge carriers produced by femtosecond laser pump in the heterostructure.
Creating PublicSpaces: Centering Public Values in Digital Infrastructures
Authors: Bogaerts Geert-Jan , van Dijck José , Zuckerman Ethan
Published: February 2023

Institutions like public and universities face conflicts of values when using surveillant digital tools: organizations bound to protect the privacy and respect their autonomy of their constituents - which we term “values-led organizations” - find those values undermined by tools they must use to conduct business online. A Dutch nonprofit, Public Spaces, has developed a self-audit method for documenting dependencies on such tools and working to find values-consistent alternatives. The Public Spaces Digital Power Wash is a method applicable to other tensions between organizational values and values embedded in digital tools. We expand from this specific case study to consider the larger challenge of tensions between organizational values and the behavior of digital tools and examine the possibility that values-led organizations could take the lead in building digital public infrastructures that value the autonomy and privacy of citizens.
Electrochemical Conversion of Cu Nanowire Arrays into Metal-Organic Frameworks HKUST-1
Authors: Luo Jia , Lan Mu , Wagner Michael , Ulrich Nils , Kopold Peter , Tzifas Ioannis , Wang Hongyan , Trautmann Christina , Toimil-Molares Maria Eugenia
Published: February 2023

We explore the conversion of free-standing Cu nanowire arrays produced by electrodeposition in polymer etched ion-track membranes into metal-organic frameworks KHUST-1 by electrochemical oxidation. HKUST-1 particles are built up when the as-formed Cu2+ ions bind to the benzene tricarboxylic acid ligands (BTC3−) in the electrolyte solution. The morphology and crystallinity of the samples at different transformation stages are investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. X-ray diffraction data taken at different conversion times confirm the formation of HKUST-1 particles. The conversion process resulted in octahedral structures of several μm in size. Comparison of the Raman spectra with the band positions derived from density functional theory (DFT) calculations, suggests that vibrations involving Cu atoms appear only below 490 cm−1 wavenumbers and involve the entire HKUST-1 lattice rather than vibrations of single bonds.
Xanthogranulomatous Cholecystitis Mimicking Carcinoma Gallbladder
Authors: Poddar Elisha , Mainali Prakash , Shrestha Suraj , Gautam Pratima , Twayana Anuradha , Pathak Niharika , Tiwari Ashish , Bhattarai Abhishek , Awale Laligen , Kansakar Prasan Singh
Published: February 2023

Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis (XGC) is a rare benign chronic inflammatory disease of the gallbladder that often presents as cholecystitis and can mimic gallbladder carcinoma. Distinguishing XGC from gallbladder cancer preoperatively is challenging. We present a case of a 62-year-old male who presented with features of carcinoma gallbladder in the CECT abdomen and MRCP. Intraoperatively, there was a mass in the gallbladder and extension into the adjacent structures with involvement of the hepatic artery, 1st part of the duodenum, portal vein, and hepatic flexure of the colon, and thus a palliative cholecystectomy was done. The histopathological report came out as XCG. The case aims to outline the clinical presentation of XGC and differentiate it from carcinoma gallbladder.
Risk Factors of Clonally Related, Multi, and Extensively Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in Severely Ill COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Ahmed Meqdad Saleh , Abdulrahman Zirak Faqe Ahmed , Taha Zanan Mohammed Ameen
Published: February 2023

Background. The secondary infection of multi and extensively drug-resistant “Acinetobacter baumannii” in severely ill COVID-19 individuals is usually associated with extended hospitalisation and a high mortality rate. The current study aimed to assess the exact incidence rate of A. baumannii coinfection in severely ill COVID-19 patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICUs), to identify the possible mechanism of A. baumannii transfer to COVID-19 patients and to find out their resistance rate against different antibiotics. Methods. Fifty severely ill “COVID-19” individuals on respiratory support were selected with samples being collected from the pharynx. In addition, another 60 samples were collected from the surrounding environment. Bacterial isolates were diagnosed by microbiological cultures and confirmed by “Vitek 2 system” and real-time PCR. The “Vitek 2 Compact system” was used to evaluate these isolates for antimicrobial susceptibility. The recovered isolates’ DNA fingerprints and genetic similarities were performed using ERIC-PCR. Results.Twenty-six samples were tested positive for A. baumannii (20 out of 50 samples taken from patients, 40%; 6 out of 60 swabs from a nosocomial setting, 10%). All A. baumannii strains isolated from the nosocomial sites were clonally related (have the same genetic lineage) to some strains isolated from patients. However, the majority of the patients’ strains were categorised as belonging to the same genetic lineage. Furthermore, “the multi and extensively drug” resistance patterns were seen in all isolates. In addition, total isolates showed resistance to the most commonly tested antibiotics, while none of them was found to be resistant to tigecycline. Conclusion. Secondary “A. baumannii” infection in severely ill “COVID-19” patients is a serious matter, especially when it has one spot of transmission in the ICU as well as when it is extensively drug-resistant, necessitating an immediate and tactical response to secure the issue.
Quasilinear Hyperbolic Systems Applied to Describe the Magnetohydrodynamic Nanofluid Flow
Authors: Nie Dayong
Published: February 2023

This study examines the flow of hyperbolic nanofluid over a stretching sheet in three dimensions. The influence of velocity slip on the flow and heat transfer properties of a hyperbolic nanofluid has been investigated. The partial differential equations for nanoparticle solid concentration, energy, and motion were turned into ordinary differential equations. Nanoparticle mass fluxes at boundaries are assumed to be zero, unlike surface concentrations. The influence of the main parameters on flow characteristics, surface friction coefficients, and the Nusselt number has been visualized. The results suggest that Brownian motion has a negligible impact on the heat transfer rate. The ratio of the elastic force to the viscosity force was found to decrease the fluid velocity. The resulting thermophysical properties of nanofluids are in agreement with previous research. The present findings can be used to expand the potential for using nanofluids as a coolant in critical thermophysical and industrial installations.
Clustered Associations between Musculoskeletal Fitness Tests and Functional Movement Screen in Physically Active Men
Authors: Domaradzki Jarosław , Koźlenia Dawid
Published: February 2023

Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a tool used to assess fundamental movement patterns. There are relationships between musculoskeletal fitness (MSF) and a FMS. However, there is limited data regarding the multidimensional associations between these two constructs. This study is aimed at investigating the associations and detailed structures of FMS components and MSF components and identifying a deeper detailed structure of their relations to physical fitness. The study sample included 114 physically active men with an average body height of 1.81 ± 0.07 (cm), body weight of 80.61 ± 9.49 (kg), and a BMI of 24.65 ± 2.46 (kg/m2). Each participant performed a FMS test, sit‐and‐reach (S&R) test, sit‐ups (ABS) evaluation, balance evaluation on an AMTI platform, handgrip strength (HG) testing, and standing broad jump (SBJ) ability. The Kendall’s Tau correlation was performed to identify simple associations between FMS and MSF. Cluster analysis was used to determine the multidimensional nature of the relationships. In the vast majority, a positive correlation was observed suggesting that a high level of MSF improved FMS test results. A cluster analysis revealed 4 separate clusters. Shoulder mobility (SM) was identified as a single cluster. A strong similarity was observed between SBJ and trunk stability push‐up (TSPU) forming a second cluster. This cluster joined to another consisting of the S&R test and active straight leg raise (ASLR) test. The last cluster consisted of HG and hurdle step (HS). These results confirmed that FMS and MSF tests measure the same constructs—a foundation for an individual’s motor coordination, muscle strength, postural stability, and dynamic balance. This knowledge could be helpful in effectively enhancing physical performance based on combining similar constructs to accelerate the achievement of established goals.
Interleukin‐6 and Hypoxia Synergistically Promote EMT‐Mediated Invasion in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer via the IL‐6/STAT3/HIF‐1α Feedback Loop
Authors: Zhang Tongshuo , Yang Jing , Sun Yang , Song Jiangnan , Gao Dandan , Huang Suhui , Pang Aibo , Zhang Jianhui , Wang Junhong , Wang Yue , Li Yanqiu
Published: February 2023

Extensive peritoneal spread and capacity for distant metastasis account for the majority of mortality from epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Accumulating evidence shows that interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) promotes tumor invasion and migration in EOC, although the molecular mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Meanwhile, the hypoxic microenvironment has been recognized to cause metastasis by triggering epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in several types of cancers. Here, we studied the synergy between IL‐6 and hypoxia in inducing EMT in two EOC cell lines, A2780 cells and SKOV3 cells. Exogenous recombination of IL‐6 and autocrine production of IL‐6 regulated by plasmids both induced EMT phenotype in EOC cells characterized by downregulated E‐cadherin as well as upregulated expression of vimentin and EMT‐related transcription factors. The combined effects of IL‐6 and hypoxia were more significant than those of either one treatment on EMT. Suppression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) before IL‐6 treatment inhibited the EMT phenotype and invasion ability of EOC cells, indicating that HIF‐1α occupies a key position in the regulatory pathway of EMT associated with IL‐6. EMT score was found positively correlated with mRNA levels of IL‐6, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and HIF‐1α, respectively, in 489 ovarian samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. Next, blockade of the abovementioned molecules by chemical inhibitors reversed the alteration in the protein levels of EMT markers induced by either exogenous or endogenous IL‐6. These findings indicate a positive feedback loop between IL‐6 and HIF‐1α, and induce and maintain EMT phenotype through STAT3 signaling, which might provide a novel rationale for prognostic prediction and therapeutic targets in EOC.
Distributed

H

∞

Consensus Filtering for Parabolic Distributed Parameter Systems with Multiple Missing Measurements: A Mobile Sensing Approach
Authors: Qian Xueming , Cui Baotong
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the distributed

H

∞

consensus filtering issue for a class of distributed parameter systems with bounded disturbance. In a framework of optimizing performance, a new approach to improving filter performance is proposed by employing mobile sensor networks. Moreover, the information missing in mobile sensor networks is modeled as a conditional probability distribution. The aim of the filtering challenge is to construct a distributed consensus filter such that the filtering error system is globally asymptotically stable in the mean square, and what disturbances do to the estimation accuracy is attenuated at the

H

∞

consensus performance level. Utilizing the Lyapunov direct approach and the spatial operator technique, several sufficient criteria are given for the proposed filter to satisfy the

H

∞

consensus performance constraint. Finally, a numerical simulation is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the design scheme of the proposed filter.
Bayesian Machine Learning Enables Identification of Transcriptional Network Disruptions Associated with Drug-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Blatti Charles , de la Fuente Jesús , Gao Huanyao , Marín-Goñi Irene , Chen Zikun , Zhao Sihai D. , Tan Winston , Weinshilboum Richard , Kalari Krishna R. , Wang Liewei , Hernaez Mikel
Published: February 2023

Survival rates of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) are low due to lack of response or acquired resistance to available therapies, such as abiraterone (Abi). A better understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms is needed to identify effective targets to overcome resistance. Given the complexity of the transcriptional dynamics in cells, differential gene expression analysis of bulk transcriptomics data cannot provide sufficient detailed insights into resistance mechanisms. Incorporating network structures could overcome this limitation to provide a global and functional perspective of Abi resistance in mCRPC. Here, we developed TraRe, a computational method using sparse Bayesian models to examine phenotypically driven transcriptional mechanistic differences at three distinct levels: transcriptional networks, specific regulons, and individual transcription factors (TF). TraRe was applied to transcriptomic data from 46 patients with mCRPC with Abi-response clinical data and uncovered abrogated immune response transcriptional modules that showed strong differential regulation in Abi-responsive compared with Abi-resistant patients. These modules were replicated in an independent mCRPC study. Furthermore, key rewiring predictions and their associated TFs were experimentally validated in two prostate cancer cell lines with different Abi-resistance features. Among them, ELK3, MXD1, and MYB played a differential role in cell survival in Abi-sensitive and Abi-resistant cells. Moreover, ELK3 regulated cell migration capacity, which could have a direct impact on mCRPC. Collectively, these findings shed light on the underlying transcriptional mechanisms driving Abi response, demonstrating that TraRe is a promising tool for generating novel hypotheses based on identified transcriptional network disruptions.

Significance:

The computational method TraRe built on Bayesian machine learning models for investigating transcriptional network structures shows that disruption of ELK3, MXD1, and MYB signaling cascades impacts abiraterone resistance in prostate cancer.