bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluoride export is required for the competitive fitness of pathogenic microorganisms in dental biofilm models
Authors: Banerjee Aditya , Kang Chia-Yu , An Minjun , Koff B. Ben , Sunder Sham , Kumar Anuj , Tenuta Livia M. A. , Stockbridge Randy B.
Published: April 2024

Microorganisms resist fluoride toxicity using fluoride export proteins from one of several different molecular families. Cariogenic species
Streptococcus mutans
and
Candida albicans
extrude intracellular fluoride using a CLC
F
F
-
/H
+
antiporter and FEX fluoride channel, respectively, whereas oral commensal eubacteria, such as
Streptococcus gordonii,
export fluoride using a Fluc fluoride channel. In this work, we examine how genetic knockout of fluoride export impacts pathogen fitness in single-species and three-species dental biofilm models. For biofilms generated using
S. mutans
with the genetic knockout of the CLC
F
transporter, exposure to low fluoride concentrations decreased
S. mutans
counts, synergistically reduced the populations of
C. albicans
, increased the relative proportion of oral commensal
S. gordonii
, and reduced properties associated with biofilm pathogenicity, including acid production and hydroxyapatite dissolution. Biofilms prepared with
C. albicans
with genetic knockout of the FEX channel also exhibited reduced fitness in the presence of fluoride but to a lesser degree. Imaging studies indicate that
S. mutans
is highly sensitive to fluoride, with the knockout strain undergoing complete lysis when exposed to low fluoride for a moderate amount of time. Biochemical purification of the
S. mutans
CLC
F
transporter and functional reconstitution establishes that the functional protein is a dimer encoded by a single gene. Together, these findings suggest that fluoride export by oral pathogens can be targeted by specific inhibitors to restore biofilm symbiosis in dental biofilms and that
S. mutans
is especially susceptible to fluoride toxicity.

IMPORTANCE

Dental caries is a globally prevalent condition that occurs when pathogenic species, including
Streptococcus mutans
and
Candida albicans
, outcompete beneficial species, such as
Streptococcus gordonii
, in the dental biofilm. Fluoride is routinely used in oral hygiene to prevent dental caries. Fluoride also has antimicrobial properties, although most microbes possess fluoride exporters to resist its toxicity. This work shows that sensitization of cariogenic species
S. mutans
and
C. albicans
to fluoride by genetic knockout of fluoride exporters alters the microbial composition and pathogenic properties of dental biofilms. These results suggest that the development of drugs that inhibit fluoride exporters could potentiate the anticaries effect of fluoride in over-the-counter products like toothpaste and mouth rinses. This is a novel strategy to treat dental caries.
HPV oncogenes expressed from only one of multiple integrated HPV DNA copies drive clonal cell expansion in cervical cancer
Authors: Yu Lulu , Majerciak Vladimir , Lobanov Alexei , Mirza Sameer , Band Vimla , Liu Haibin , Cam Maggie , Hughes Stephen H. , Lowy Douglas R. , Zheng Zhi-Ming
Published: April 2024

The integration of HPV DNA into human chromosomes plays a pivotal role in the onset of papillomavirus-related cancers. HPV DNA integration often occurs by linearizing the viral DNA in the E1/E2 region, resulting in the loss of a critical viral early polyadenylation signal (PAS), which is essential for the polyadenylation of the E6E7 bicistronic transcripts and for the expression of the viral E6 and E7 oncogenes. Here, we provide compelling evidence that, despite the presence of numerous integrated viral DNA copies, virus-host fusion transcripts originate from only a single integrated HPV DNA in HPV16 and HPV18 cervical cancers and cervical cancer-derived cell lines. The host genomic elements neighboring the integrated HPV DNA are critical for the efficient expression of the viral oncogenes that leads to clonal cell expansion. The fusion RNAs that are produced use a host RNA polyadenylation signal downstream of the integration site, and almost all involve splicing to host sequences. In cell culture, siRNAs specifically targeting the host portion of the virus-host fusion transcripts effectively silenced viral E6 and E7 expression. This, in turn, inhibited cell growth and promoted cell senescence in HPV16+ CaSki and HPV18+ HeLa cells. Showing that HPV E6 and E7 expression from a single integration site is instrumental in clonal cell expansion sheds new light on the mechanisms of HPV-induced carcinogenesis and could be used for the development of precision medicine tailored to combat HPV-related malignancies.

IMPORTANCE

Persistent oncogenic HPV infections lead to viral DNA integration into the human genome and the development of cervical, anogenital, and oropharyngeal cancers. The expression of the viral E6 and E7 oncogenes plays a key role in cell transformation and tumorigenesis. However, how E6 and E7 could be expressed from the integrated viral DNA which often lacks a viral polyadenylation signal in the cancer cells remains unknown. By analyzing the integrated HPV DNA sites and expressed HPV RNAs in cervical cancer tissues and cell lines, we show that HPV oncogenes are expressed from only one of multiple chromosomal HPV DNA integrated copies. A host polyadenylation signal downstream of the integrated viral DNA is used for polyadenylation and stabilization of the virus-host chimeric RNAs, making the oncogenic transcripts targetable by siRNAs. This observation provides further understanding of the tumorigenic mechanism of HPV integration and suggests possible therapeutic strategies for the development of precision medicine for HPV cancers.
Whole-genome sequence and annotation of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
strain QazSL-4
Authors: Barmak Sabyrkhan M. , Mendenhall Ian H. , Sinyavskiy Yuriy A. , Berdygaliev Aidar B. , Sharmanov Turegeldy Sh. , Sultankulova Gulmira T. , Tuigunov Dilyar N. , Zholdybayeva Elena V.
Published: April 2024

Here, we present the whole-genome sequence of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
strain QazSL-4 isolated from a chicken fillet in 2018, Almaty, Kazakhstan. The genome obtained using Illumina MiSeq technology consists of 49 contigs with a total length of 4,711,816 bp with a GC content of 52.1%.
Supplemental Material: Alkenone-derived estimates of Cretaceous pCO2
Authors: Si Weimin , al. et
Published: April 2024

Sample chronology, detailed analytical and pCO2 estimate methods, fossil taxon descriptions, supporting data tables, and supplementary figures showing alkenone distributions and mass spectra. 
Supplemental Material: Origin of the Site U1504 alkaline basalts in the South China Sea continental margin: Insights on deep mantle diversity and subduction dynamics under continental arcs
Authors: Sun Liheng , Zhang Yunying , et al.
Published: April 2024

Supplemental figures and supplemental tables.
Supplemental Material: Transport and deposition of the 39.8 ka Campanian Ignimbrite large-scale pyroclastic density currents (Italy)
Authors: Silleni Aurora , al. et
Published: April 2024

Detailed information about methods and sample location and detailed results of the topological aspect ratio and the competence ratio. 
Gram-negative sepsis caused by a rare pathogenPhytobacter ursingii
Authors: Choice Samuel , Sherman Ashten , Holder Katherine , Harrington Elaine
Published: April 2024

This case reviews the clinical course of an elderly woman on chronic total parenteral nutrition who developed sepsis secondary to a rare, newly described gram-negative rod known asPhytobacter ursingii. The patient noticed a leak in her Hickman catheter when infusing her nutrition. 24 hours after a new catheter was replaced, the patient developed fevers, chills and weakness. She presented to the hospital with hypotension and tachycardia, meeting shock criteria. Blood cultures grewP. ursingii,and the diagnosis of septic shock was confirmed. Susceptibilities informed antibiotic coverage, and she ultimately improved within the next 48 hours.
Breast cryoablation for the palliative treatment of indolent subtype of multicentric triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Huang Monica L , Lane Deanna L , Bomar Hannah , Kuerer Henry
Published: April 2024

Breast cryoablation for palliative and curative treatment of breast cancer has been performed for decades. Although there is a recent resurgence of interest in breast cryoablation with curative intent for unifocal, hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative breast cancer, this report highlights the essential role that cryoablation can play in the palliative treatment of multicentric oestrogen and progesterone receptor-negative and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (triple-negative) breast cancer, meeting the select pretreatment objectives such as breast or nipple pain relief and prevention of tumour erosion through the skin or nipple in patients who have failed or cannot tolerate the standard of care treatment.
Missing in action: a scoping review of gender as the overlooked component
in decolonial discourses
Authors: Nassiri-Ansari Tiffany , Rhule Emma Louise Margaret
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Race and gender were intimately intertwined aspects of the colonial
project, used as key categories of hierarchisation within both colonial
and modern societies. As such, true decolonisation is only possible when
both are addressed equally; failure to address the colonial root causes
of gender-based inequalities will allow for the perpetuation of
racialised notions of gender to persist across the global health
ecosystem. However, the authors note with concern the relative
sidelining of gender within the decolonising global health discourse,
especially as it navigates the critical transition from rhetoric to
action.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to locate where gender does, or does
not, appear within the decolonising global health literature. The
authors reviewed the decolonising global health literature available on
Scopus and PubMed online databases to identify peer-reviewed papers with
the search terms "(decoloni* or de-coloni*) OR (neocolonial or
neo-colonial) AND ‘global health’" in their title, abstract or keywords
published by December 2022.

Results

Out of 167 papers on decolonising global health, only 53 (32%) had
any reference to gender and only 26 (16%) explicitly engaged with gender
as it intersects with (de)coloniality. Four key themes emerged from
these 26 papers: an examination of coloniality’s racialised and gendered
nature; how this shaped and continues to shape hierarchies of knowledge;
how these intertwining forces drive gendered impacts on health
programmes and policies; and how a decolonial gender analysis can inform
action for change.

Conclusion

Historical legacies of colonisation continue to shape contemporary
global health practice. The authors call for the integration of a
decolonial gender analysis in actions and initiatives that aim to
decolonise global health, as well as within allied movements which seek
to confront the root causes of power asymmetries and
inequities.
Preconception counselling in women of reproductive age attending cardiology clinics in Scotland
Authors: Osmanska Joanna , Jackson Alice M , Simpson Joanne , Adamson Carly , Doherty Daniel , Mamet Helene , Moir Lynsey , Walker Niki L , Hogg Duncan , Simpson Maggie
Published: April 2024

Background

Guidelines for the management of cardiovascular disease (CVD) recommend preconception risk stratification and counselling in all women of childbearing age. We assessed the provision of preconception counselling (PCC) among women of reproductive age attending general cardiology outpatient clinics over a 12-month period in two large health boards in Scotland.

Methods and results

Electronic health records were reviewed and data on patient demographics, cardiac diagnoses, medication use and the content of documented discussions regarding PCC were recorded. Women were classified according to the modified WHO (mWHO) risk stratification system. Among 1650 women with a cardiac diagnosis included (1 January 2016–31 December 2016), the mean age was 32.7±8.6 years, and 1574 (95.4%) attended a consultant-led clinic. A quarter (402, 24.4%) were prescribed at least one potentially fetotoxic cardiovascular medication. PCC was documented in 10.3% of women who were not pregnant or were unable to conceive at the time of review (159/1548). The distribution of mWHO classification, and proportion of patients within each mWHO category who received any form of PCC, was 15.0% and 6.0% in mWHO class I, 20.2% and 8.7% in mWHO class II, 22.6% and 10.6% in mWHO class II–III, 9.5% and 15.7% in mWHO class III and 3.9% and 19.7% in mWHO class IV.

Conclusion

PCC is documented infrequently in women of reproductive age with CVD in the general outpatient setting. Education relating to the risks of cardiac disease in pregnancy for clinicians and patients, and tools to support healthcare providers in delivering PCC, is important.
Dielectric and hydrogen bonding studies of butyronitrile with 1,4-dioxane using a time-domain reflectometry
Authors: Dongre D.G. , Deshmukh A.R. , Garad N.P. , Gubre A.G. , Saknure S.H. , Kumbharkhane A.C.
Published: April 2024

Using time-domain reflectometry (TDR), the complex permittivity of binary mixture of butyronitrile (BTN) and 1,4-dioxane (1,4-DX) at various temperatures and solvent proportions was determined over the frequency range of 10 MHz to 30 GHz. The complex permittivity spectra (CPS) have been fitted to the Havrilik–Negami equation. The relaxation time (τ) and static dielectric constant (ε0) have been calculated for each concentration using the least squares fit method. The nonlinear behavior of dielectric parameters suggests a change in the molecular size and intermolecular bonding of BTN–1,4-DX mixtures. Theoretical static dielectric constants (ε0) have been determined using hydrogen bonded model suggested by Luzar for all solvent proportions and compared with experimental values obtained from TDR.
Mechanical grouting sleeve of rebars: experimental investigations
Authors: Zhang Zengqiang , Li Jie , Dai Shuhe , Guo Jingbo
Published: April 2024

To ensure the reliability of prefabricated concrete structures and reduce the cost of sleeve, a new type of mechanical grouting sleeve of rebars was designed. According to the specification of the rebar joint, monotonic axial tension test and cyclic load test of the new rebar sleeve were performed. The working mechanism and connection performance of sleeve were studied. The results show that the unidirectional tensile strength of the sleeve joint can meet the requirement of 1.1 times of the tensile strength of the rebar. The deformation of mechanical grouting meets the requirements of standard under cyclic load. The strength and deformation properties of the rebar joint meet the requirements of standard of JGJ107-2010 for I level joint when the grouting length is large. The working mechanism of the mechanical grouting sleeve is discussed, which provides a new design method for the connection of rebar with different diameters. The research results are of great significance for promoting the development of prefabricated concrete structures.
Cosmic acceleration & deceleration with f(R,T) gravity
Authors: Mishra R. K. , Sharma Rahul
Published: April 2024

This study includes the cosmic evolution and the potential periodicity of the universe. It employs a periodic varying deceleration parameter (PVDP) within the framework of [Formula: see text] theory of gravity, with a specific focus on the Bianchi-II model. We explore the dynamic nature of the universe, with physical and geometrical properties within this theoretical framework. We have also analyzed the cosmographic parameters, including jerk, snap, and lerk, for deeper insights into the universe’s evolution and behavior. Utilizing state finder diagrams and the Om diagnostic (which illustrates the variation of [Formula: see text] with redshift) signifying a shift from matter dominance to a stronger influence of dark energy (DE), we construct a comprehensive map of the universe’s trajectory and behavior. By employing the Bianchi-II model within the [Formula: see text] theory, our proposed model helps us in understanding the universe’s oscillatory patterns and underlying mechanisms. This research significantly contributes to our understanding of cosmic evolution and periodicity within the [Formula: see text] theory.
Distributed Pseudo-Likelihood Method for Community Detection in Large-Scale Networks
Authors: Deng Jiayi , Huang Danyang , Zhang Bo
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a distributed pseudo-likelihood method (DPL) to conveniently identify the community structure of large-scale networks. Specifically, we first propose a
block-wise splitting
method to divide large-scale network data into several subnetworks and distribute them among multiple workers. For simplicity, we assume the classical stochastic block model. Then, the DPL algorithm is iteratively implemented for the distributed optimization of the sum of the local pseudo-likelihood functions. At each iteration, the worker updates its local community labels and communicates with the master. The master then broadcasts the combined estimator to each worker for the new iterative steps. Based on the distributed system, DPL significantly reduces the computational complexity of the traditional pseudo-likelihood method using a single machine. Furthermore, to ensure statistical accuracy, we theoretically discuss the requirements of the worker sample size. Moreover, we extend the DPL method to estimate degree-corrected stochastic block models. The superior performance of the proposed distributed algorithm is demonstrated through extensive numerical studies and real data analysis.
Clinical Utility of a CT-based AI Prognostic Model for Segmentectomy in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Na Kwon Joong , Kim Young Tae , Goo Jin Mo , Kim Hyungjin
Published: April 2024

A CT-based deep learning model identified individuals at high risk among patients with clinical stage IA non–small cell lung cancer who underwent segmentectomy.
US-guided Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation for Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: Long-term Outcomes and Prognostic Factors
Authors: Yue Wenwen , Jiang Tingting , Ai Zisheng , Deng Erya , Chai Huihui , Li Xiaolong , He Hongfeng , Zhang Zhengxian , Weng Ning , Qin Xiachuan , Fan Jing , Tang Xiaoqing , Heng Wei , Li Yong , Sun Liping , Peng Chengzhong , Xu Huixiong
Published: April 2024

US-guided radiofrequency ablation seems to be an efficacious and safe nonsurgical alternative for patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism receiving long-term dialysis treatment.
Data Extraction from Free-Text Reports on Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Using ChatGPT: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Lehnen Nils C. , Dorn Franziska , Wiest Isabella C. , Zimmermann Hanna , Radbruch Alexander , Kather Jakob Nikolas , Paech Daniel
Published: April 2024

By using data manually extracted by a radiologist as the ground truth, GPT-4 more frequently extracted correct data from free-text reports on mechanical thrombectomy in patients with ischemic stroke compared with GPT-3.5.
Perfluorinated Single-Ion Li+ Conducting Polymer Electrolyte for Lithium-Metal Batteries
Authors: Jagadesan Pradeepkumar , Cui Jiang , Kalami Somayyeh , Abrha Ljalem Hadush , Lee Hansol , Khani Hadi
Published: April 2024

Single-ion (Li+) conducting electrolytes with a high Li+ conductivity and transference number (LTN) are promising electrolyte candidates for eliminating the concentration polarization and inhibiting the growth of lithium dendrites in lithium-metal batteries at high power and energy densities. This study presents the synthesis and electrochemical characterization of an AB-type single-ion Li+ conducting polymer consisting of a perfluorinated lithium-salt monomer (A) covalently bonded to a polyethylene glycol monomer (B). An investigation into several plasticizers reveals that ether-based solvents with moderate dielectric constants significantly enhance the Li+ conductivity of single-ion (Li+) conducting gel polymer electrolytes (SIC-GPE) while also maintaining the mechanical integrity of SIC-GPE. The perfluorinated lithium-salt units with weakly coordinating anions provide the advantage of high Li+ conductivity (1.1 × 10–4 S cm–2) and transference number (0.92), while polyethylene glycol units contribute to high flexibility and enhance plasticizer wettability in the SIC-GPE. The interfacial stability and electrochemical performance of SIC-GPE are demonstrated in lithium-metal symmetric cells (maintaining stability for >1300 h at 1 mAh cm–2) and lithium-metal batteries (retaining 98% capacity after 200 cycles).
Indoor Air Remediation Using Biochar from Bark: Impact of Particle Size and Pollutant Concentration
Authors: Zouari Mariem , Hribernik Silvo , Schwarzkopf Matthew
Published: April 2024

The growing emphasis on indoor air quality and public health is fuelling the need for efficient yet affordable air purification techniques. In this study, the influence of biochar particle size on its adsorption efficiency toward airborne pollutants was examined. Bark‐derived biochar particles were treated by grinding or ball milling, and then, seven samples with different particle size groups were separated. Biochar particles were characterized by particle size, proximate, SEM, XRD, and physisorption analyses. For adsorption efficiency, two different pollutants were tested at variable initial concentrations. The physical composition and XRD patterns of the biochar with different particle sizes were comparable. The ball‐milled sample was an exception in that it had higher ash content and additional XRD peaks signifying contamination of the sample. The porosity of biochar was greater in smaller particles. Ball milling increased the specific surface area and total pore volume by 102% and 48%, respectively. Biochar with finer particle size exhibited the highest adsorption potential towards formaldehyde and methanol among other samples. It should be emphasized that simple mechanical grinding is preferred for reducing biochar size to avoid the risk of eventual contamination, greater energy consumption, and slower processing related to ball milling. When a low concentration of pollutant was tested (1 ppm formaldehyde), the effect of particle size on the adsorption efficiency was more noticeable. However, the effect of particle size was less dominant when higher concentrations of pollutants were tested. Smaller biochar particles (<100 μm) are more favourable for indoor air remediation given their superior adsorption efficiency of volatile organic compounds occurring at low concentrations in the buildings.
Assessing Microbial Diversity in Páramo Soils (Multistrategy Analysis): Effects of Potato Farming and Livestock Grazing in Nevados National Natural Park, Colombia
Authors: Avellaneda-Torres Lizeth Manuela , León Sicard Tomás , Guerra Castro Edlin , Torres-Rojas Esperanza
Published: April 2024

High Andean Páramos are very fragile neotropical ecosystems. Moreover, biodiversity in these areas is threatened by the anthropic activities of agriculture, cattle raising, and mining and has been little studied. Changes associated with potato farming and livestock grazing on microorganisms of Páramo soil of the Nevados National Natural Park (Nevados NNP) were assessed by (1) determination of physical and chemical properties (physicochemical matrix) and enzymatic activities associated (enzymatic activity matrix) with different biogeochemical cycles (C, N, and P); (2) microbial community functional diversity via evaluation of functional groups associated with carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles using cultivation-dependent techniques (arable functional group matrix and most probable number matrix); and (3) microbial diversity using cultivation-independent techniques that employ the hypervariable V5–V6 region of the 16S rRNA gene and pyrosequencing (16S-454 genus matrix and 16S-454 OTU matrix). Four of the six evaluated matrices (physicochemical, enzymatic activities, most probable number, and arable functional groups) revealed significant differences according to land use. The strategy adopted by the arable functional group matrix, in which the diversity of nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and cellulolytic compounds was evaluated, showed the most significant impacts of the different factors (land use, season, and elevation), especially those caused by potato cultivation and livestock. These results indicate that the initial impacts of potato farming and livestock grazing on the microbial community in El Bosque Village are better detected by functional diversity analysis than by molecular analysis of the 16S rRNA gene V5–V6 variable region. The results may have been caused by the type of molecular marker used in the analyses and the type of agricultural practices used by peasant farmers, which affect the functional diversity of the soil community. Among these practices are the maintenance of fallow periods greater than 7 years between each potato crop and the small proportion of cattle in relation to the total land area of the village. As the findings can be interpreted as an indicator of the early impacts of potato cultivation and livestock on microbial diversity, the effects of implementing community management plans, applying agroecological models, retaining biocultural memory, and changing agrarian structure are relevant for mitigating future changes.
Competence Assessment of Team of Specialists under the Organization and Personnel Department at Public Universities in Vietnam
Authors: Xuan Loc Nguyen Thi , Thu Phan Hung , Thanh Thai Van , An Nguyen Như
Published: April 2024

A study was conducted to identify the components of competency in general that are considered important in improving the work efficiency of team of specialists under the organization and personnel department at public universities in Vietnam. Data have been collected through a management questionnaire to team of specialists under the organization and personnel department (n = 106) managerial staff (n = 50), and lecturers and other specialists (n = 245). Analysis of deductive content and statistics of technical description are used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of data, respectively. The results show that there are five important components of competency of specialists under the organization and personnel department that need to be formed, including professional quality, professional competence, consulting competence, competence of planning and implementation organization, competence of self-improvement, and professional development. In addition, there are three groups of complementary competencies, including communication competence, foreign language competence, and information technology competence. The main objective of the article is to identify the components of competency in general that are considered important in improving the work efficiency of team of specialists under the organization and personnel department at public universities in Vietnam. The findings can be used by administrators at public universities as a basis for them to have specific strategies and solutions in the university’s team development to meet the requirements of higher educational renovation today.
Design of the Monopulse Feeding Network for a Slotted Waveguide Array on an Annular Disk
Authors: Wang Zongxin , Wang Yulan , Zhu Shengchi , Chen Peng
Published: April 2024

Design of a monopulse feeding network including a compact power distribution network and a monopulse comparator for a dual polarization slotted waveguide array fabricated on an annular disk is presented in this paper. As the slotted waveguide array is arranged on an annular disk, the feeding network is more complicated than that of a regular array such as a rectangular array. The design details of some key waveguide components, such as the compact assembly of H-plane T-junctions and E-plane elbows used to connect power distribution networks and radiation waveguides, are provided. Quasiplanar magic tees are designed and used to construct the compact sum and difference comparator. The antenna system contains two comparators, which are used to generate sum and difference beams for horizontal polarization and vertical polarization, respectively. Finally, the monopulse slotted waveguide array antenna is divided into two modules, a comparator module and an antenna module (including power distribution network), and fabricated with the layered processing and bonding process. The comparator module is measured using a network analyzer to verify its amplitude-frequency characteristics and phase-frequency characteristics. Screwing the comparator module and the antenna module together, a monopulse slotted waveguide array antenna is obtained, and the sum beam and difference beam characteristics of the antenna are measured in a microwave chamber and presented.
Supplementary Table from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Buckarma EeeLN H. , Werneburg Nathan W. , Conboy Caitlin B. , Kabashima Ayano , O'Brien Daniel R. , Wang Chen , Ilyas Sumera I. , Smoot Rory L.
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Table from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Supplementary Figure from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Buckarma EeeLN H. , Werneburg Nathan W. , Conboy Caitlin B. , Kabashima Ayano , O'Brien Daniel R. , Wang Chen , Ilyas Sumera I. , Smoot Rory L.
Published: April 2024

Supplementary Figure from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Data from The YAP-Interacting Phosphatase SHP2 Can Regulate Transcriptional Coactivity and Modulate Sensitivity to Chemotherapy in Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Buckarma EeeLN H. , Werneburg Nathan W. , Conboy Caitlin B. , Kabashima Ayano , O'Brien Daniel R. , Wang Chen , Ilyas Sumera , Smoot Rory L.
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The Hippo pathway effector Yes-associated protein (YAP) is localized to the nucleus and transcriptionally active in a number of tumor types, including a majority of human cholangiocarcinomas. YAP activity has been linked to chemotherapy resistance and has been shown to rescue KRAS and BRAF inhibition in RAS/RAF-driven cancers; however, the underlying mechanisms of YAP-mediated chemoresistance have yet to be elucidated. Herein, we report that the tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 directly regulates the activity of YAP by dephosphorylating pYAPY357 even in the setting of RAS/RAF mutations, and that diminished SHP2 phosphatase activity is associated with chemoresistance in cholangiocarcinomas. A screen for YAP-interacting tyrosine phosphatases identified SHP2, and characterization of cholangiocarcinomas cell lines demonstrated an inverse relationship between SHP2 levels and pYAPY357. Human sequencing data demonstrated lower SHP2 levels in cholangiocarcinomas tumors as compared with normal liver. Cell lines with low SHP2 expression and higher levels of pYAPY357 were resistant to gemcitabine and cisplatin. In cholangiocarcinomas cells with high levels of SHP2, pharmacologic inhibition or genetic deletion of SHP2 increased YAPY357 phosphorylation and expression of YAP target genes, including the antiapoptotic regulator MCL1, imparting resistance to gemcitabine and cisplatin. In vivo evaluation of chemotherapy sensitivity demonstrated significant resistance in xenografts with genetic deletion of SHP2, which could be overcome by utilizing an MCL1 inhibitor.
Implications:
These findings demonstrate a role for SHP2 in regulating YAP activity and chemosensitivity, and suggest that decreased phosphatase activity may be a mechanism of chemoresistance in cholangiocarcinoma via a MCL1-mediated mechanism.
Figure S5 from Proteasome Inhibition Reprograms Chromatin Landscape in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kinyamu H. Karimi , Bennett Brian D. , Ward James M. , Archer Trevor K.
Published: April 2024

Shows Effects of MG132 on accessibility of breast cancer specific super enhancers and predicted associated genes.
Figure S4 from Proteasome Inhibition Reprograms Chromatin Landscape in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kinyamu H. Karimi , Bennett Brian D. , Ward James M. , Archer Trevor K.
Published: April 2024

Shows biological processes affected by MG132 treatment.
FIGURE 2 from Proteasome Inhibition Reprograms Chromatin Landscape in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kinyamu H. Karimi , Bennett Brian D. , Ward James M. , Archer Trevor K.
Published: April 2024

Proteasome inhibition affects RNAPII binding. Heat maps showing differential signal for non-phosphorylated (Non-P), and serine-5 phosphorylated (Ser5P) RNAPII at DOCRs that increase (GAIN; A) and decrease (LOST; B) accessibility. Signal spans ±1 kb from the center of the DOCRs and is ranked on the basis of the degree of change in accessibility. C, Metaplots for ChIP-seq binding signals of Non-P and Ser5P RNAPII at DOCRs. Signal includes the untreated state (0) and after 4H and 24H of treatment.
Artificial Intelligence in Imaging in the First Trimester of Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Umans Emma , Dewilde Kobe , Williams Helena , Deprest Jan , Van den Bosch Thierry
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Ultrasonography in the first trimester of pregnancy offers an early screening tool to identify high risk pregnancies. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have the potential to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and assist the clinician in early risk stratification. Objective: The objective of the study was to conduct a systematic review of the use of AI in imaging in the first trimester of pregnancy. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature review by searching in computerized databases PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar from inception to January 2024. Full-text peer-reviewed journal publications written in English on the evaluation of AI in first-trimester pregnancy imaging were included. Review papers, conference abstracts, posters, animal studies, non-English and non-peer-reviewed articles were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed by using PROBAST. Results: Of the 1,595 non-duplicated records screened, 27 studies were included. Twelve studies focussed on segmentation, 8 on plane detection, 6 on image classification, and one on both segmentation and classification. Five studies included fetuses with a gestational age of less than 10 weeks. The size of the datasets was relatively small as 16 studies included less than 1,000 cases. The models were evaluated by different metrics. Duration to run the algorithm was reported in 12 publications and ranged between less than one second and 14 min. Only one study was externally validated. Conclusion: Even though the included algorithms reported a good performance in a research setting on testing datasets, further research and collaboration between AI experts and clinicians is needed before implementation in clinical practice.
Increased Severity of Presentation Signs in Children with Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Tertiary Center Experience
Authors: İzci Güllü Elif , Akin Leyla , Gökler Mehmet Enes , Aydin Murat
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is an important complication of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) which is worsened when the diagnosis of T1DM is delayed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presentation patterns, severity, autoantibody status, and seasonal variability of newly diagnosed T1DM patients during the pandemic period of 2 years compared to those in the pre-pandemic period. Methods: In this single tertiary center retrospective cohort study, newly diagnosed T1DM patients were grouped as pre-pandemic and pandemic period. Age, gender, the month of diagnosis, hemoglobin A1c, venous blood gas parameters, duration of symptoms, glutamic-acid-decarboxylase-antibody (anti-GAD), islet-cell antibody (ICA), and insulin autoantibody levels were recorded. The data obtained were compared between the groups. Results: Number of patients presenting with DKA was significantly higher during the pandemic period (92 [65.7%] vs. 62 [40.8%] patients, p < 0.001). In terms of clinical severity of DKA, pH, and HCO3 levels were lower during the pandemic period (p < 0.001), while the number of patients presenting with severe DKA was significantly higher during the pandemic period (41 [44.6%] vs. 17 [27.4%] patients, p = 0.031). ICA positivity was significantly higher in patients admitted during the pandemic period (47 [36.4%] vs. 21 patients [16.9%], p < 0.001), especially in the second year of the pandemic (p < 0.001). Anti-GAD-ICA co-positivity was significantly higher in patients admitted during the pandemic period and also in second year of the pandemic (p < 0.001). Conclusion: DKA rates increased in newly diagnosed T1DM cases during the pandemic. Despite the relaxation of bans, the second year of the pandemic also saw increased rates of DKA and severe DKA compared to the pre-pandemic period. The significantly increased ICA positivity in the pandemic may support the effects of COVID-19 on autoimmune T1DM.
Pseudomonas stutzeri KC carries the pdt genes for carbon tetrachloride degradation on an integrative and conjugative element
Authors: Sewell Holly L. , Criddle Craig S. , Woo Sung-Geun , Kim Sooyeol , Müller Jochen A. , Kaster Anne-Kristin
Published: April 2024

Pseudomonas stutzeri KC can rapidly degrade carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to CO2 by a fortuitous reaction with pyridine-2,6-bis(thiocarboxylic acid), a metal chelator encoded by pdt genes. These genes were first identified after a spontaneous mutant, strain CTN1, lost the ability to degrade CCl4. Here we report the complete genome of strain KC and show that these pdt genes are located on an integrative and conjugative element (ICE), designated ICEPsstKC. Comparative genome analyses revealed homologues of pdt genes in genomes of members of other gammaproteobacterial orders. Discrepancies between the tree topologies of the deduced pdt gene products and the host phylogeny based on 16S rRNA provided evidence for horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in several sequenced strains of these orders. In addition to ICEPsstKC, HGT may be have been facilitated by other mobile genetic elements, as indicated by the location of the pdt gene cluster adjacent to fragments of other ICEs and prophages in several genome assemblies. We could here show that the majority of cells from the culture collection DSMZ had lost the ICE. The presence of the pdt gene cluster on mobile genetic elements has important implications for the bioremediation of CCl4 for bioremediation of CCl4 and needs consideration when selecting suitable strains.
Characteristics for Medical Cannabis Treatment Adherence among Autistic Children and Their Families: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: David Ayelet , Stolar Orit , Berkovitch Matitiahu , Kohn Elkana , Waisman-Nitzan Michal , Hartmann Inbar , Gal Eynat
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Medical cannabis treatment for autistic children has recently become popular, and studies have focused on examining the treatment’s effects on children’s symptom presentation, reported side effects, and dropout rates. However, no previous study has investigated the factors influencing adherence and dropout rates in cannabis treatment. Method: This explanatory sequential mixed-methods study explored these factors by examining the characteristics of 87 autistic children and their families and deepening parents’ perspectives and experiences of the 6-month CBD-rich cannabis treatment’s benefits and barriers. Results: We found this treatment to have a high (75%) adherence rate, relatively mild side effects, and substantial reported benefits for the children and families. However, this treatment was not free of barriers; the intake regime, some side effects, and in some cases, unrealistic parental expectations made adherence difficult for some families. Conclusion: Our results highlight the importance of providing professional guidance and knowledge to parents of autistic children, enhancing their understanding of the impact of CBD-rich cannabis treatment on their children and expected related challenges, and coordinating realistic treatment expectations. We hope that addressing these important aspects will influence parents’ ability to adhere to and enjoy the benefits of cannabis treatment for their autistic children.
Diagnostic Conundrum of a Sertoli Cell Tumor in a 2-Year-Old Girl with Peripheral Precocious Puberty and a Café-au-Lait Macule: A Case Report
Authors: Ray Lauren A. , Billmire Deborah F. , Ferguson Michael J. , Eugster Erica A.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Ovarian Sertoli cell tumors represent a subset of sex cord stromal tumors and are exceedingly rare in prepubertal children. Here, we report a girl with vaginal bleeding due to a Sertoli cell tumor who was originally thought to have McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS). Case Presentation: A previously healthy girl presented at age 2 years 6 months with breast development and vaginal bleeding. On exam, she had Tanner 4 breasts, Tanner 1 pubic hair, estrogenized vaginal mucosa, and a café-au-lait macule. Laboratory studies revealed an elevated estradiol with suppressed gonadotropins and negative tumor markers. Her bone age was advanced by more than 3 years. Pelvic ultrasound (US) revealed an enlarged uterus and a slightly larger left compared to right ovary. She was started on tamoxifen for presumed MAS. A repeat pelvic US 1 month later showed a heterogenous mass in the left ovary which was subsequently resected. Pathology revealed a Sertoli cell tumor, lipid-rich variant. Germline sequencing revealed a pathogenic STK11 variant, diagnostic for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS). Conclusion: The findings in our patient were strikingly similar to those encountered in MAS. To our knowledge, our patient is the youngest ever reported to present with precocious puberty due to a Sertoli cell tumor in the setting of PJS.
Educomunicação popular e periférica e o reconhecimento das periferias
Authors: Souza Juliana Salles de
Published: April 2024

En entornos de educación no formal en las periferias urbanas latinoamericanas se han llevado a cabo iniciativas de educomunicación por parte de colectivos de comunicación, especialmente desde la década de 2010. En este contexto, se plantea el siguiente interrogante: ¿de qué manera contribuye este tipo de educomunicación al reconocimiento de los territorios periféricos? Así, el objetivo general de este trabajo es analizar acciones de los colectivos de comunicación con vistas al reconocimiento institucional, social, político y cultural de dichos territorios. Esta investigación realizó un estudio de caso comparativo entre procesos educativos en colectivos de comunicación de las ciudades de São Paulo (Brasil) y Medellín (Colombia).
A teoria neuronal versus a teoria reticular: o caso híbrido da retina proposto por Ferruccio Tartuferi (1852-1925)
Authors: Modesto Wendy , Ferreira Francisco R. Monte
Published: April 2024

O objetivo do presente artigo é examinar, a partir do debate que se estabeleceu na segunda metade do século XIX acerca da constituição do tecido nervoso entre neuronistas e reticularistas, a proposta híbrida para a constituição da retina apresentada por Ferruccio Tartuferi (1852-1925) em 1887. Pretendemos também iniciar uma discussão sobre algumas soluções apresentadas na segunda metade do século XIX para a explicação da percepção visual por vias puramente anatomo-fisiológicas a partir do conceito de célula visual.
Teorias, tecnologia e seu uso na compreensão do cérebro humano
Authors: Nogueira Maria Inês , Ferreira Francisco R. Monte
Published: April 2024

Sob esse título são abordados, historicamente, alguns conceitos, ideias, ações e técnicas que influenciaram nosso atual conhecimento sobre o cérebro, de forma a identificar aqueles que possam abranger as questões: Coração versus Cérebro; Cérebro versus Mente e Cérebro: monismo e dualismo, entre outras. Em revisita à história da ciência, se busca entender a importância atribuída à cabeça, coração e cérebro quanto à sua relevância para manter a vida, pensar, sentir, agir e reagir. Qual o significado dos furos no crânio de fósseis de hominídeos? Como as civilizações antigas do velho e novo mundo concebiam a razão e emoções? Teria a Idade Média afetado o desenvolvimento da ciência no Oriente como o fez no Ocidente? Nesse percurso, ainda se procura identificar como algumas concepções das funções cerebrais evoluíram. Qual delas resistiu ao tempo? São, também, incluídos alguns personagens, conceitos e tecnologias relevantes à compreensão atual, do cérebro e do sistema nervoso. O texto objetiva uma abordagem ampla, dirigida principalmente a quem deseja se introduzir no tema, coloca indagações sem a pretensão de cobrir todo o assunto, mas sim identificar e estimular pesquisas nessa instigante área que é a Neurociencia.
Relações do conceito de memória com os conceitos de individuação, informação e investigação em estudos de fenômenos elementares das formas orgânicas
Authors: Cabral Caio Cesar , Santos Guilherme Francisco
Published: April 2024

Procura-se desenvolver aqui uma investigação sobre possíveis relações de inteligibilidade entre os conceitos de memória, individuação, informação e investigação, partindo da formulação e expressão que eles tiveram em certos autores dos séculos XIX e XX. Tal investigação buscará compreender tais conceitos e suas relações sob um ponto de vista morfológico, e o fará por meio de uma abordagem que abrange ideias de autores como Ernest Haeckel, Edward Hering, Gilbert Simondon e John Dewey.
Prediction interval
Authors: Coskun Abdurrahman
Published: April 2024

Graphical abstract
Highlights
• Prediction interval has a great potential to be used in laboratory medicine
• It is a powerful tool for computing personalized reference interval and reference change value
• It can be used to assess the stability of analytical systems
• It can be used in monitoring the accuracy and reproducibility of analytical systems
Monitoring is indispensable for assessing disease prognosis and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment strategies, both of which rely on serial measurements of patients’ data. It also plays a critical role in maintaining the stability of analytical systems, which is achieved through serial measurements of quality control samples. Accurate monitoring can be achieved through data collection, following a strict preanalytical and analytical protocol, and the application of a suitable statistical method. In a stable process, future observations can be predicted based on historical data collected during periods when the process was deemed reliable. This can be evaluated using the statistical prediction interval. Statistically, prediction interval gives an “interval” based on historical data where future measurement results can be located with a specified probability such as 95%. Prediction interval consists of two primary components: (i) the set point and (ii) the total variation around the set point which determines the upper and lower limits of the interval. Both can be calculated using the repeated measurement results obtained from the process during its steady-state. In this paper, (i) the theoretical bases of prediction intervals were outlined, and (ii) its practical application was explained through examples, aiming to facilitate the implementation of prediction intervals in laboratory medicine routine practice, as a robust tool for monitoring patients’ data and analytical systems.