bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increase in Trauma Leading to Psychological Injury Among Canadian Homelessness Services Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Schiff Jeannette Waegemakers , Weissman Eric , Schiff Rebecca , Liu Jacky , Pitoulis Terry , Jones Alana
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study examined the traumatic psychological impact of the pandemic on frontline workers in homelessness services.

Methods

Staff from homelessness serving organizations completed pre- and mid-COVID pandemic surveys measuring traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), burnout, and job-related traumatic experiences. The mid-pandemic survey was expanded to seven Canadian cities to determine prevalence of workplace PTSS nationally.

Results

In the comparison group, baseline rates of PTSS (41%) rose to 47.3% (n= 164), while 75% reported low-moderate levels of burnout both times. Nationwide, PYSS was 51% (n= 574). Case managers working at remotely had greater levels of PTSS.

Conclusions

COVID-19 exacerbated risk of psychological workplace injury from traumatic stress; however, burnout did not increase significantly, indicating the primary dynamic as anxiety and emotional exhaustion associated with ubiquitous trauma induced by COVID-19. Working remotely increased the hazards of psychological workplace injury.
The Mediating Role of Fear of COVID-19 in the Association between COVID-19–Related Work Stressors and Subjective Well-being
Authors: Gritzka Susan , Angerer Peter , Diebig Mathias
Published: October 2023

Objective

COVID-19 has changed work conditions and instilled fear. However, research overlooked the contributing factors to fear of COVID-19 and its impact on well-being. We addressed this research gap and focused on the essential workforce of child care.

Methods

Three samples of early childhood professionals (ECPs) (N
T1 = 423, N
T2 = 142, N
T3 = 584) were gathered in Germany between June 2020 and May 2021. We tested via path analysis whether (1) fear of COVID-19 relates to well-being, (2) COVID-19–related work stressors relate to fear of COVID-19, and (3) fear of COVID-19 mediates the relationship of work stressors and well-being.

Results

Findings of NT1 and NT3 lent support, while results of NT2 differed.

Conclusions

This study underlines the importance of adapting the work conditions during pandemics to reduce the fear of infection and thus preserve ECPs’ well-being.
Post Cochlear Implantation Vertigo: Ictal Nystagmus and Audiovestibular Test Characteristics
Authors: Kwok Belinda Y. C. , Young Allison S. , Kong Jonathan H. K. , Birman Catherine S. , Flanagan Sean , Greenberg Simon L. , Gibson William P. , Argaet Emma C. , Fratturo Luke , Pogson Jacob M. , Taylor Rachael L. , Rosengren Sally M. , Halmagyi G. Michael , Welgampola Miriam S.
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate ictal nystagmus and audiovestibular characteristics in episodic spontaneous vertigo after cochlear implantation (CI).

Study Design

Retrospective and prospective case series.

Patients

Twenty-one CI patients with episodic spontaneous vertigo after implantation were recruited.

Interventions

Patient-initiated home video-oculography recordings were performed during one or more attacks of vertigo, using miniature portable home video-glasses. To assess canal and otolith function, video head-impulse tests (vHITs) and vestibular-evoked myogenic potential tests were conducted.

Main Outcome Measures

Nystagmus slow-phase velocities (SPVs), the presence of horizontal direction-changing nystagmus, and post-CI audiovestibular tests.

Results

Main final diagnoses were post-CI secondary endolymphatic hydrops (48%) and exacerbation of existing Ménière's disease (29%). Symptomatic patients demonstrated high-velocity horizontal ictal-nystagmus (SPV, 44.2°/s and 68.2°/s in post-CI secondary endolymphatic hydrop and Ménière's disease). Direction-changing nystagmus was observed in 80 and 75%. Two were diagnosed with presumed autoimmune inner ear disease (SPV, 6.6°/s and 172.9°/s). One patient was diagnosed with probable vestibular migraine (15.1°/s).

VHIT gains were 0.80 ± 0.20 (lateral), 0.70 ± 0.17 (anterior), and 0.62 ± 0.27 (posterior) in the implanted ear, with abnormal values in 33, 35, and 35% of each canal. Bone-conducted cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials were asymmetric in 52 and 29% of patients (all lateralized to the implanted ear) with mean asymmetry ratios of 51.2 and 35.7%. Reversible reduction in vHIT gain was recorded in three acutely symptomatic patients.

Conclusion

High-velocity, direction-changing nystagmus time-locked with vertigo attacks may be observed in post-CI implant vertigo and may indicate endolymphatic hydrops. Fluctuating vHIT gain may be an additional marker of a recurrent peripheral vestibulopathy.
Surgery or Not? A Systematic Review of Facial Congenital Melanocytic Nevi Treatment Patterns and Outcomes
Authors: Ibelli Taylor J. , Bauer Bruce , Kleinman Elana P. , Kuruvilla Annet , Mendiratta Dhruv , Scope Alon , Seyidova Nargiz , Taub Peter J.
Published: October 2023

Background

Treatment management for congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) on the face (FCMN) is highly variable and requires a thorough assessment of multiple factors. To date, a systematic review of FCMN treatment is lacking. The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the frequency, variety, and outcomes of treatment modalities for FCMN with different levels of complexity.

Methods

A comprehensive review of Pubmed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases from 1950 to 2022 was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Articles reporting on FCMN treatment approaches, outcomes, and associated complications were screened and data were extracted according to inclusion criteria. Data were tabulated for thematic analysis of FCMN treatment types, anatomic locations, outcomes, and complications.

Results

Of the 561 studies retrieved, 34 met inclusion criteria including 19 surgical treatments, 14 nonsurgical treatments, and one combined surgical and nonsurgical treatment study, totaling 356 patients. The majority of treated FCMN were small-to-medium-sized (56%). Facial CMN treated conservatively were mostly located on the cheek (27%) and/or perinasal region (21%), whereas FCMN treated with surgery were primarily located in the periorbital region (44%) and/or the cheek (17%). Across all treatment cohorts, 22% of patients experienced at least one complication, with 12% of complications experienced by patients treated by surgery.

Conclusions

There is a greater need for standardized FCMN nomenclature that encompasses nevi pattern, dimensions, anatomical coverage, and quantitative measurements of treatment outcome. Future studies should focus on identifying anatomic locations of FCMN that are more prone to complications and determine which treatment approach optimizes outcomes.
Treatment of Hypertrophic Burn Scars With Laser Therapy
Authors: Won Paul , Cooper Michael , Gillenwater T. Justin , Yenikomshian Haig A.
Published: October 2023

Hypertrophic scarring, characterized by excessive scar tissue formation, is a debilitating outcome that significantly impairs physical and psychosocial recovery after burn injury. Hypertrophic scarring affects a substantial proportion of burn survivors, with reported prevalence as high as 70%. Fractional CO2 laser (FCL) therapy, a therapy commonly used in acne scar treatment or skin rejuvenation, has become popular in treating hypertrophic scars. Little is known regarding FCL's adverse events for burn scar treatment. We hypothesize that FCL is a safe treatment modality with minimal adverse events in the management of hypertrophic burn scars. This is a retrospective chart review of adverse events after FCL at 2 centers within a single institution. Burn patients undergoing FCL between May 1, 2019, and June 1, 2021 were included. Demographics, injury etiology, laser treatment details, and adverse events were collected. A total of 170 patients, 77 (45.3%) males and 93 (54.7%) females, underwent 544 FCL therapies for burn scars. The average number of treatments per patient was 3 ± 2.23, with a range of 1 to 17 sessions. From the total 544 laser therapy sessions, 13 adverse events (2.4%) were reported. There were 5 reports (0.9%) of increased postprocedural pain and 1 report (0.2%) of increased paresthesia/numbness to laser site. Three instances (0.6%) of increased erythema and 4 reports (0.7%) of epidermal sloughing or blistering were reported. All but 5 patients (2.9%) reported improvements to scar symptoms. This study demonstrates minimal adverse events associated with FCL for hypertrophic burn scar treatment.
Reduced Access to Acute Hand Care and Potential Role of Telemedicine in Tennessee During the COVID Pandemic
Authors: Hung Ya-Ching , Evans Adam G. , Ruiz Darren P. , Lee Mykia S. , Jackson Kianna R. , Thayer Wesley P. , Hill J. Bradford
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Previous studies have identified that there is limited, although expanding, access to acute hand care in Tennessee. Because of the rapid changes that occurred in health delivery and access during the coronavirus disease pandemic, we reassessed access to acute hand care, with particular interest in the utilization of telemedicine to assess if this increased access.

Method

We surveyed Tennessee hospitals listed by the Tennessee Hospital Association on their management of hand trauma and availability of telemedicine programs. Census data including population demographics such as race, age, income, and county size were merged with the survey data. Descriptive analysis was performed comparing the 2021 cohort with the historic 2018 cohort and between counties that had hand care versus counties that had no hand care.

Result

Survey response rate was 71.4% (n = 80 of 112). Telemedicine was used in 80% of the hospitals for other specialties but was not used for hand care. Overall, counties that offered hand trauma care reduced from 60% to 26% from 2018 to 2021 (P < 0.001). This change was associated with a significant reduction of acute hand care among counties that were classified micropolitan (from 56.3% to 6.7%, P < 0.01). Percentage of hand specialists on staff and 24/7 specialists availability remained low and were similar to the availability in 2018.

Conclusions

There was a decrease of acute hand care access in Tennessee during the coronavirus disease pandemic despite widespread utilization of telemedicine for other specialty consults. Expansion of telemedicine in acute hand care, targeted to micropolitan areas, may help to reduce variability in access to care.
Assessing the causal relationship between sepsis and autoimmune: a mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Ziyi , Guo Zhe , Wang Xuesong , Chen Feng , Wang Ziwen , Wang Zhong
Published: October 2023

Object

Numerous epidemiological studies have identified a potential link between sepsis and a variety of autoimmune disorders. The primary objective of this study is to delve deeper into this connection, investigating the potential causal relationship between sepsis and autoimmune disorders through the application of Mendelian Randomization (MR).

Methods

To assess the potential genetic impact on sepsis risk relating to susceptibility towards immune-related outcomes, we utilized summary data from the largest European genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on these conditions using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) framework. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)—which had strong associations with the 9 traits—were extracted from the GWAS and examined their effects in an extensive European sepsis GWAS (486,484 cases and 474,841 controls). We employed inverse-variance weighted (IVW) MR, Weighted median, and MR Egger for analyses, supplementing these with sensitivity analyses and assessing level pleiotropy using MR methodologies. We also executed a reverse MR analysis to test sepsis' causal effects on the designated autoimmune traits.

Results

With primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) being the exception, our MR analysis suggests that susceptibility towards most autoimmune diseases doesn't affect sepsis risks. The reverse MR analysis didn't validate any influence of sepsis susceptibility over other autoimmune diseases. Our primary IVW MR analysis outcomes found general confirmation through our sensitivity MR examinations. Variance in the exposures, as dictated by the SNP sets used as MR instruments, ranged between 4.88 × 10−5 to 0.005.

Conclusion

Our MR research, centered on a European population, doesn't validate a correlation between susceptibility to the majority of autoimmune disorders and sepsis risk. Associations discerned in epidemiological studies may owe partly to shared biological or environmental confounders. The risk susceptibility for PSC does relate to sepsis risk, opening doors for personalized precision treatments in the future.
Impact of an over-the-counter “sleep lotion” on salivary melatonin levels and sleep quality: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ponce Clairissa , Razon Amanda D. , Chao Joey , Nakagawa Sydney K. , Peterson Megan M. , Roque Angelina Y. , Vanderpool Maya A. , Ferracane Michael J. , Olson Lisa E.
Published: October 2023

Many over-the-counter products such as bubble baths, room sprays, and lotions claim they contain the pineal hormone melatonin and promote sleep. In this randomized, controlled, double-blind crossover trial we compared the impact of a commercial “sleep lotion” versus a placebo control lotion. Our sample of 63 undergraduate college students scored an average of 6.3 ± 2.7 on the Global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, with 65% above the cutoff of 5 indicating poor sleep quality in the previous 30 days. Participants applied lotions on two different nights, one hour before bedtime. To assess whether melatonin was absorbed through the skin and circulating systemically, we conducted enzyme linked immunosorbent assays on saliva samples to quantitate melatonin levels. We also assessed sleep quality the night after lotion application with a modified Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The melatonin-containing sleep lotion dramatically impacted salivary melatonin levels, increasing them up to ∼1000 fold compared to the placebo control lotion. Sleep quality in the overall group was not impacted by the lotion, but in a subsample of the poor sleepers, the lotion improved sleep quality. High Performance Liquid Chromatography of the sleep lotion revealed the presence of 2.4 ± 0.1 mg melatonin/g lotion, or a 0.24 ± 0.01% formulation. Caution should be taken by consumers using over-the-counter melatonin lotions because the undisclosed dosage is high and well absorbed by the skin.Clinicaltrials.govIDNCT06053385
OpenNucleome for high resolution nuclear structural and dynamical modeling
Authors: Lao Zhuohan , Kamat Kartik , Jiang Zhongling , Zhang Bin
Published: October 2023

The intricate structural organization of the human nucleus is fundamental to cellular function and gene regulation. Recent advancements in experimental techniques, including high-throughput sequencing and microscopy, have provided valuable insights into nuclear organization. Computational modeling has played significant roles in interpreting experimental observations by reconstructing high-resolution structural ensembles and uncovering organization principles. However, the absence of standardized modeling tools poses challenges for furthering nuclear investigations. We present OpenNucleome—an open-source software designed for conducting GPU-accelerated molecular dynamics simulations of the human nucleus. OpenNucleome offers particle-based representations of chromosomes at a resolution of 100 KB, encompassing nuclear lamina, nucleoli, and speckles. This software furnishes highly accurate structural models of nuclear architecture, affording the means for dynamic simulations of condensate formation, fusion, and exploration of non-equilibrium effects. We applied OpenNucleome to uncover the mechanisms driving the emergence of “fixed points” within the nucleus—signifying genomic loci robustly anchored in proximity to specific nuclear bodies for functional purposes. This anchoring remains resilient even amidst significant fluctuations in chromosome radial positions and nuclear shapes within individual cells. Our findings lend support to a nuclear zoning model that elucidates genome functionality. We anticipate OpenNucleome to serve as a valuable tool for nuclear investigations, streamlining mechanistic explorations and enhancing the interpretation of experimental observations.
SOCfinder: a genomic tool for identifying cooperative genes in bacteria
Authors: Belcher Laurence J. , Dewar Anna E. , Hao Chunhui , Katz Zohar , Ghoul Melanie , West Stuart A.
Published: October 2023

Bacteria cooperate by working collaboratively to defend their colonies, share nutrients, and resist antibiotics. Nevertheless, our understanding of these remarkable behaviours primarily comes from studying a few well-characterized species. Consequently, there is a significant gap in our understanding of microbial cooperation, particularly in natural environments. To address this gap, we can use bioinformatic tools to identify cooperative traits and their underlying genes across diverse species. Existing tools address this challenge through two approaches. One approach is to identify genes that encode extracellular proteins, which can provide benefits to neighbouring cells. An alternative approach is to predict gene function using annotation tools. However, these tools have several limitations. Not all extracellular proteins are cooperative, and not all cooperative behaviours are controlled by extracellular proteins. Furthermore, existing functional annotation methods frequently miss known cooperative genes. Here, we introduce SOCfinder as a new tool to find cooperative genes in bacterial genomes. SOCfinder combines information from several methods, considering if a gene is likely to (1) code for an extracellular protein, (2) have a cooperative functional annotation, or (3) be part of the biosynthesis of a cooperative secondary metabolite. We use data on two extensively-studied species (P. aeruginosa&B. subtilis) to show that SOCfinder is better at finding known cooperative genes than existing tools. We also use theory from population genetics to identify a signature of kin selection in SOCfinder cooperative genes, which is lacking in genes identified by existing tools. SOCfinder opens up a number of exciting directions for future research, and is available to download fromhttps://github.com/lauriebelch/SOCfinder.

Data Summary

All code and associated files are available athttps://github.com/lauriebelch/SOCfinder.

Impact Statement

Bacteria cooperate by secreting many molecules outside the cell, where they can provide benefits to other cells. While we know much about how bacteria cooperate in the lab, we know much less about bacterial cooperation in nature. Is cooperation equally important in all species? Are all cooperations equally vulnerable to cheating? To answer these questions, we need a way of identifying cooperative genes across a wide range of genomes. Here, we provide such a method – which we name SOCfinder. SOCfinder allows users to find cooperative genes in any bacterial genome. SOCfinder opens up a number of exciting directions for future research. It will allow detailed studies of non-model species, as well as broad comparative studies across species. These studies will allow cooperation in the wild to be studied in new ways.
Evaluating flash freezing for preservation of rat abdominal aorta for delayed biomechanical characterization
Authors: van der Laan Koen W.F. , Reesink Koen D. , Lambrichts Sara , Bitsch Nicole J.J.E. , van der Taelen Laura , Foulquier Sébastien , Delhaas Tammo , Spronck Bart , Giudici Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Most studies investigating arterial stiffening use animal rather than human arteries. This is because human tissue becomes available in small amounts and at irregular times, which complicates planning of experimental work. Suitable tissue preservation methods for delayed biomechanical testing prevents the need for testing fresh tissue and alleviates some of the logistical challenges of humanex vivostudies. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether the existing method of flash freezing and subsequent cryostorage provides is suitable for delaying the characterization of arterial biomechanics. Fresh and flash frozen abdominal aortas (n=16 and 14, respectively) were quasi- statically and dynamically tested using a biaxial testing set-up with dynamic pressurization capabilities. The acquired biomechanical data was modeled using a constituent-based quasi-linear viscoelastic modeling framework, deriving directional stiffness parameters, individual constituent biomechanical contributions, and viscoelastic stiffening under dynamic pressurization conditions. Flash freezing reduced arterial wall thickness, increased circumferential stiffness, as well as reduced viscoelastic stiffening at higher pressures. These findings reflected those in the modeled contribution of collagen to arterial biomechanics, showing increased collagen load bearing at higher pressures. However, despite the above mentioned detectable changes, flash freezing did not alter the mechanical relation between elastin and collagen, maintaining a non-linear response to pressurization and stretch. Flash freezing may thus be suitable for studies requiring delayed characterization of passive arterial biomechanics, assuming care is taken to ascert that the impact of flash freezing on study groups can be approached as a systematic error.
Trans-Lesion Synthesis and Mismatch Repair Pathway Crosstalk Defines Chemoresistance and Hypermutation Mechanisms in Glioblastoma
Authors: Cheng Xing , An Jing , Lou Jitong , Gu Qisheng , Ding Weimin , Droby Gaith , Wang Yilin , Wang Chenghao , Gao Yanzhe , Shelton Abigail , Satterlee Andrew Benson , Mann Breanna Elizabeth , Hsiao Yun-Chung , Liu Chih-Wei , Liu Kun , Hingtgen Shawn , Wang Jiguang , Liu Zhaoliang , Miller Ryan , Wu Di , Vaziri Cyrus , Yang Yang
Published: October 2023

Almost all Glioblastoma (GBM) are either intrinsically resistant to the chemotherapeutical drug temozolomide (TMZ) or acquire therapy-induced mutations that cause chemoresistance and recurrence. The genome maintenance mechanisms responsible for GBM chemoresistance and hypermutation are unknown. We show that the E3 ubiquitin ligase RAD18 (a proximal regulator of TLS) is activated in a Mismatch repair (MMR)-dependent manner in TMZ-treated GBM cells, promoting post-replicative gap-filling and survival. An unbiased CRISPR screen provides a new aerial map of RAD18-interacting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways deployed by GBM to tolerate TMZ genotoxicity. Analysis of mutation signatures from TMZ-treated GBM reveals a role for RAD18 in error-free bypass of O6mG (the most toxic TMZ-induced lesion), and error-prone bypass of other TMZ-induced lesions. Our analyses of recurrent GBM patient samples establishes a correlation between low RAD18 expression and hypermutation. Taken together we define novel molecular underpinnings for the hallmark tumorigenic phenotypes of TMZ-treated GBM.
Nucleo-cytoplasmic environment modulates spatio-temporal p53 phase separation
Authors: Datta Debalina , Navalkar Ambuja , Sakunthala Arunima , Paul Ajoy , Patel Komal , Masurkar Shalaka , Gadhe Laxmikant , Sengupta Shinjinee , Poudyal Manisha , Devi Jyoti , Sawner Ajay Singh , Kadu Pradeep , Shaw Ranjit , Pandey Satyaprakash , Mukherjee Semanti , Gahlot Nitisha , Sengupta Kundan , Maji Samir K
Published: October 2023

Phase separation of various transcription factors and nucleic acids into biomolecular condensates is known to play an essential role in the regulation of gene expression. Here, we show that p53, a tumor suppressor and transcription factor, phase separates and forms biomolecular condensates in the nucleus of cancer cells as well as when overexpressed in the various cell lines. Although the nuclear condensates of wild-type (WT) p53 maintain their liquid state and are able to bind DNA, cancer-associated mutations not only promote misfolding but also partially rigidify the p53 condensates, which are unable to bind the DNA. Irrespective of WT or mutant form, the cytoplasmic partitioning of p53 with time also results in biomolecular condensate formation, which eventually undergoes rigidification.In vitro, WT p53 core domain (p53C) forms biomolecular condensates, which rigidify with time and the process is further promoted by cancer-associated mutations. Both RNA and non-specific DNA promote LLPS of p53C, but specific DNA promotes the dissolution of p53C condensates. The result suggests that the cellular microenvironment regulates p53 LLPS, material property and its functions.
Early skin seeding regulatory T cells modulate PPARγ-dependent skin pigmentation
Authors: Cho Inchul , Xu Jessie Z. , Aziz Hafsah , Lui Prudence PokWai , Xie Boyu , Tsai Pei-Hsun , Jeon Hee-Yeon , Choi Jinwook , Ali Shahnawaz , Ali Niwa
Published: October 2023

The maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis is dependent on the functional cross-talk between stem cells (SCs) and tissue-resident immune cells. This reciprocal relationship is also essential for tissue organogenesis during early life. The skin harbors a relatively large population of Regulatory T cells (Tregs) that accumulate within the first two weeks after birth. A functional role for early skin seeding Tregs (ETregs) during the first week of life is currently unexplored. Here, we show that skin Tregs are detected early as postnatal day 3 (P3) where they localize to hair follicle (HF) structures and enter a dynamic flux of activation marker expression. Punctual ETreg depletion from P6-P8, but not later, results in defective HF melanocyte SC (MeSC) mediated skin pigmentation in juvenile life. Transcriptomic analysis of the whole skin on P9 exhibited immediate and pronounced changes in MeSC markers and perturbation of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) target genes in the HF. Accordingly, punctual ETreg depletion combined with short-term PPARγ agonization restored skin pigmentation. Single cell profiling of P9 skin revealed that PPARγ signalling activity is preferentially diminished in the HF epithelium upon loss of ETregs. Finally, we explored changes in the single cell transcriptome of the human tissue disorder, vitiligo, characterized by a lack of melanin and consequent skin depigmentation. These analyses showed that the HF cells from lesional vitiligo skin exhibited a significant downregulation in PPARγ pathway activation, relative to heathy controls. Overall, ETregs in neonatal skin are critical for sustaining HF PPARγ signaling, which is vital for facilitating MeSC mediated skin pigmentation during postnatal development.

One Sentence Summary

PPARγ pathway functions downstream of neonatal Tregs to regulate melanocyte stem cell function.
FLI1 localization to the chlamydial inclusion involves multiple mechanisms
Authors: Sturd Natalie A. , Wood Macy G. , Durham Legacy , Ouellette Scot P. , Rucks Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2023

Following entry into a host cell, the obligate intracellular pathogen,Chlamydia trachomatis, establishes an intracellular niche within a membrane derived vacuole called the chlamydial inclusion. The resulting inclusion membrane is modified by the pathogen and is a hybrid host-chlamydial structure. From within this intracellular niche,C. trachomatismust orchestrate numerous host-pathogen interactions to surreptitiously acquire nutrients from its host and to limit detection by the host innate immune system.C. trachomatismediates many of these interactions with the host, in part, by using a family of type III secreted membrane proteins, termed inclusion membrane proteins (Incs). Incs are embedded within the inclusion membrane, and some function to recruit host proteins to the inclusion. Two such recruited host proteins are leucinerichrepeatFlightless-1 interactingprotein 1 (LRRF1/LRRFIP1) and its binding partner Flightless 1 (FLI1/FLII). LRRF1 interacts with Inc protein Ct226. However, interactions of FLI1 with candidate Incs or with LRRF1 during infection have not been defined. We hypothesized that FLI1 recruitment to the inclusion would be dependent on LRRF1 localization. To test this hypothesis, we used siRNA targetinglrrf1orfli1,revealing that FLI1 can localize to the inclusion independently of LRRF1. Therefore, to further characterize FLI1 localization, we developed and characterized a series of CRISPRi knockdown and complementation strains inC. trachomatisserovar L2 that targetct226and co-transcribed candidate Incs,ct225andct224, to understand the mechanisms of FLI1 and LRRF1 localization to the inclusion. Our results indicate that FLI1 is recruited to the inclusion by multiple mechanisms.

IMPORTANCE

Chlamydia trachomatisis a leading cause of both preventable infectious blindness and bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide. SinceC. trachomatismust grow and replicate within human host cells, it has evolved several ways of manipulating the host to establish a successful infection. As such, it is important to describe the interactions between host proteins and chlamydial proteins to understand which strategiesC. trachomatisuses to shape its intracellular environment. This study looks in detail at such interactions of two host proteins, FLI1 and LRRF1, during chlamydial infection. Importantly, the series of knockdown and complement strains developed in this study suggest these proteins have both independent and overlapping mechanisms for localization, which ultimately will dictate how these proteins function during chlamydial infection.
Bibliometric and Temporal Trend Analysis of Nipah Virus- An Emerging Zoonotic Disease: What Do We Know So Far
Authors: Singla Rajeev K. , Zhang Yingbo , Singla Shailja , Shen Bairong
Published: October 2023

Background

Nipah virus (Genus Henipavirus) was first detected in 1999, during the Malaysia-Singapore outbreak, and is an emerging bat-borne pathogen. It causes rare but fatal disease, with a 40-75% fatality rate, and clinically ranging from asymptomatic infection to fatal encephalitis.

Methods

Publicly available literature, including preclinical and clinical studies, have been retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Bibliometric analysis was done using embedded tools of these search engines along with VOSviewer.

Results

601 documents from PubMed, 955 from Web of Science, and 784 from Scopus were analyzed, and we found that maximum contributions are from the USA, India, Malaysia, Australia, and Bangladesh, and in the past five years, there has been an exponential surge in the publication rate. More research and high-throughput screening are needed to explore drugs against critical targets and receptors like ephrin-B2, non-structural protein C, F protein, L protein, G glycoprotein, nucleocapsid protein, V protein, P protein, and W protein. Research for possible vaccination is underway, but the rate is not significant. Clinical studies in this direction are minimal, undermining the fatality of this lethal disease and possible outbreak.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first bibliometric analysis of Nipah virus-related documents. It urgently demands expedited research in this direction before it is too late.

Author Summary

Nipah virus, a rare but deadly bat-borne pathogen, has gained increased attention in recent years. Our pioneering bibliometric analysis reveals a surge in research interest. This study underscores the pressing need for accelerated research on drugs and vaccines to combat this lethal disease and prevent potential outbreaks. Urgency is paramount.
Targeting CD45 by gene-edited CAR-T cells for leukemia eradication and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation preconditioning
Authors: Stepanova V.M. , Volkov D.V. , Osipova D.S. , Wang W. , Hou Y. , Pershin D.E. , Fadeeva M.S. , Malahova E.A. , Kulalovskaya E.A. , Cuicui L. , Mingfeng Z. , Zhang H. , Xie J. , Zhang D. , Mamedov I.Z. , Chernov A.S. , Telegin G.B. , Rubtsov Y.P. , Gabibov A.G. , Wu P. , Maschan M.A. , Stepanov A.V.
Published: October 2023

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is widely used to treat patients with life-threatening hematologic and immune system disorders. The currently used nontargeted chemo-/radiotherapy conditioning regimens cause tissue injury and induce an array of immediate and delayed adverse effects, which limits the use of this potentially curative treatment. The growing demand to replace canonical conditioning regimens has led to the development of alternative approaches based on antibody‒drug conjugates, naked antibodies and CAR T cells. Here, we propose a preconditioning strategy based on targeting CD45 on hematopoietic cells with CAR45 T cells. To avoid fratricide of CD45 CAR T cells, targeted genomic disruption of the CD45 gene was performed in human CD45 CAR T cells in combination with dasatinib treatment. CD45ΔCAR45 T cells showed impressive activity in terms of target cell eliminationin vitroand depletion of tumor cellsin vivoor human hematopoietic cells in humanized immunodeficient mice engrafted with human blood-derived HSCs. CD45ΔCAR45 NK cells also exhibited potent killing activity against tumor cell lines and human hematopoietic cells. Therefore, fratricide-resistant CAR45 T and NK cells have the potential to provide the benefits of full myeloablative conditioning and therapy for hematologic malignancies. Thus, we provide the proof of concept for the generation and preclinical efficacy of CAR T cells directed against CD45-expressing cells.
Xanthomonas sontii, and notXanthomonas sacchari, is the dominant, vertically transmitted core rice seed endophyte
Authors: Rana Rekha , Patil Prabhu B.
Published: October 2023

Seeds endophytes, particularly the abundant, core and vertically transmitted species, are major areas of focus in the host microbiome studies. Apart from being the first members to colonize, they accompany the plant throughout its development stages and also to the next generation. In a recently published study from china, aXanthomonasspecies was reported as the keystone species that is core endophyte and vertically transmitted in rice with probiotic properties. However, the species status was wrongly reported asX. sacchari. Such report is misleading asXanthomonas sacchariis a well-known and pathogenic species of sugarcane, and the study did not include the two-probiotic non-pathogenicXanthomonasspecies from rice seeds,Xanthomonas sontiiandXanthomonas indica, that were discovered and investigated in details by our group, leading to the wrong inference. By including these species, we have correctly established the phylogenetic and taxonomic identity of keystone species asXanthomonas sontii, a non-pathogen with plant protective functions. The course correction will enable researchers to use the correct reference or lab strain ofX. sontiifor further fundamental studies and translational research towards future agriculture.
Stability of Neural Oscillations Supports Auditory-Motor Synchronization
Authors: Scheurich Rebecca , Bégel Valentin , Sahlas Ella , Palmer Caroline
Published: October 2023

Previous findings suggest that musical training leads to increased coactivation of auditory and motor brain networks, as well as enhanced auditory-motor synchronization. Less is known about the temporal dynamics of auditory-motor network interactions and how these temporal dynamics are shaped by musical training. The current study applied Recurrence Quantification Analysis, a nonlinear technique for characterizing the temporal dynamics of complex systems, to participants’ neurophysiological activity recorded via electroencephalography (EEG) during an auditory-motor synchronization task. We investigated changes in neural predictability and stability with musical training, and how these changes were related to synchronization accuracy and consistency. EEG was recorded while musicians and nonmusicians first tapped a familiar melody at a comfortable rate, called Spontaneous Production Rate (SPR). Then participants synchronized their taps with an auditory metronome presented at each participant’s SPR and at rates 15% and 30% slower than their SPR. EEG-based outcomes of determinism (predictability) and meanline (stability) were compared with behavioral synchronization measures. Musicians synchronized more consistently overall than nonmusicians. Both groups of participants showed decreased synchronization accuracy at slower rates, and higher EEG-based determinism (predictability) at slower rates. Furthermore, neural meanline (stability) measures correlated with synchronization consistency across all participants and stimulus rates; as neural stability increased, so did synchronization consistency. Neural stability may be a general mechanism supporting the maintenance of synchronization across rates, which may improve with musical training.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface and crystal void analysis, intermolecular interaction energies, DFT calculations and energy frameworks of 2H-benzo[b][1,4]thiazin-3(4H)-one 1,1-dioxide
Authors: Irrou Ezaddine , Ait Elmachkouri Younesse , Mazzah Ahmed , Hökelek Tuncer , Haoudi Amal , Mague Joel T. , Taha Mohamed Labd , Sebbar Nada Kheira
Published: October 2023

In the title molecule, C8H7NO3S, the nitrogen atom has a planar environment, and the thiazine ring exhibits a screw-boat conformation. In the crystal, corrugated layers of molecules parallel to the ab plane are formed by N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds together with C—H...π(ring) and S=O...π(ring) interactions. The layers are connected by additional C—H...O hydrogen bonds and π-stacking interactions. Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are from H...O/O...H (49.4%), H...H (23.0%) and H...C/C...H (14.1%) interactions. The volume of the crystal voids and the percentage of free space were calculated as 75.4 Å3 and 9.3%. Density functional theory (DFT) computations revealed N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen-bonding energies of 43.3, 34.7 and 34.4 kJ mol−1, respectively. Evaluation of the electrostatic, dispersion and total energy frameworks indicate that the stabilization is dominated via the electrostatic energy contribution. Moreover, the DFT-optimized structure at the B3LYP/ 6–311 G(d,p) level is compared with the experimentally determined molecular structure in the solid state. The HOMO–LUMO behaviour was elucidated to determine the energy gap.
Synthesis, crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 1-(12-bromododecyl)indoline-2,3-dione
Authors: Rharmili Nohaila , Abdellaoui Omar , Haoudi Amal , Mague Joel T. , Hökelek Tuncer , Ouazzani Chahdi Fouad , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Mazzah Ahmed , Sebbar Nada Kheira
Published: October 2023

In the title compound, C20H28BrNO2, the indoline portion is almost planar and the 12-bromododecyl chain adopts an all-trans conformation apart from the gauche terminal C—C—C—Br fragment. A micellar-like structure is generated in the crystal by C—H...O hydrogen bonds and π-stacking interactions between indolinedione head groups and intercalation of the 12-bromododecyl tails. The Hirshfeld surface analysis of the crystal structure indicates that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are from H...H (58.9%), H...O/O...H (17.9%) and H...Br/Br...H (9.5%) contacts. A density functional theory (DFT) optimized structure at the B3LYP/ 6–311 G(d,p) level shows good agreement with the experimentally determined molecular structure in the solid state.
Optimization design of insulation structure of multiwinding high-frequency transformer based on response surface method
Authors: Chen Bin , Cao Hongxia , Wan Nina
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the insulation structure optimization method of multiwinding high-frequency transformer (HFT).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes 100 kW, 10 kHz multiwinding HFT as the research object. First, the distribution of electric field strength within the core window of multiwinding HFT with different winding configurations is simulated by the electrostatic field finite element method. The symmetrical hybrid winding structure with minimum electric field strength is selected as the insulation design. To reduce the electric field strength at the end region of the winding, the electrostatic ring and angle ring are designed based on the response surface method.

Findings

The optimal results show that the maximum electric field strength can be reduced by 15.4%, and the low voltage stress can be achieved.

Originality/value

The above research provides guidance and basis for the optimal design of insulation structure of multiwinding HFT.
Determinants of global interest in central bank digital currency: The role of sustainable development and cryptocurrency
Authors: Ozili Peterson K.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the determinants of global interest in central bank digital currency (CBDC). It assessed whether global interest in sustainable development and cryptocurrency are determinants of global interest in CBDC.

Design/methodology/approach

Google Trends data were analyzed using two-stage least square regression estimation.

Findings

There is a significant positive relationship between global interest in sustainable development and global interest in CBDC. There is a significant positive relationship between global interest in cryptocurrency and global interest in the Nigeria eNaira CBDC. There is a significant negative relationship between global interest in CBDC and global interest in the eNaira CBDC. There is a significant positive relationship between global interest in CBDC and global interest in the China eCNY. There is a significant negative relationship between global interest in cryptocurrency and global interest in the Sand Dollar and DCash.

Originality/value

The literature has not empirically examined whether global interest in sustainable development and cryptocurrency are factors motivating global interest in CBDC. This study fills a gap in the literature by investigating whether global interest in sustainable development and cryptocurrency are factors motivating global interest in CBDC.
Can reputation system complement limited inspection accuracy in deterring opportunistic claims?
Authors: Wang Dan-Yi , Wang Xueqing
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In construction projects, engineering variations are very common and create breeding grounds for opportunistic claims. This study investigates the complementary effect between an inspection mechanism and a reputation system in deterring opportunistic claims, considering an employer with limited inspection accuracy and a contractor, which can be either reputation-concerned or opportunistic.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applies a signaling game to investigate the complementary effect between the employer's inspection and a reputation system in deterring the contractor's possible opportunistic claim, considering the information-flow influence of claiming prices.

Findings

This study finds that in the exogenous-inspection-accuracy case, the employer does not always inspect the claim. A more stringent reputation system complements a less accurate inspection only when the inspection cost is lower than a threshold, but may decline the employer's surplus or social welfare. In the optimal-inspection-accuracy case, the employer always inspects the claim. However, only a sufficiently stringent reputation system can guarantee the effectiveness of an optimal inspection in curbing opportunistic claims. A more stringent reputation system has a value-stepping effect on the employer's surplus but may unexpectedly impair social welfare, whereas a higher inspection cost efficiency always reduces social welfare.

Originality/value

This article contributes to the project management literature by combing the signaling game theory with the reputation theory and thus embeds the problem of inspection mechanism design into a broader socio-economic framework.
Why do process improvement projects fail in organizations? A review and future research agenda
Authors: Bader Mariam , Antony Jiju , Jayaraman Raja , Swarnakar Vikas , Goonetilleke Ravindra S. , Maalouf Maher , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Linderman Kevin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the critical failure factors (CFFs) linked to various types of process improvement (PI) projects such as Kaizen, Lean, Six Sigma, Lean Six Sigma and Agile. Proposing a mitigation framework accordingly is also an aim of this study.

Design/methodology/approach

This research undertakes a systematic literature review of 49 papers that were relevant to the scope of the study and that were published in four prominent databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science and EBSCO.

Findings

Further analysis identifies 39 factors that contribute to the failure of PI projects. Among these factors, significant emphasis is placed on issues such as “resistance to cultural change,” “insufficient support from top management,” “inadequate training and education,” “poor communication” and “lack of resources,” as primary causes of PI project failures. To address and overcome the PI project failures, the authors propose a framework for failure mitigation based on change management models. The authors present future research directions that aim to enhance both the theoretical understanding and practical aspects of PI project failures.

Practical implications

Through this study, researchers and project managers can benefit from well-structured guidelines and invaluable insights that will help them identify and address potential failures, leading to successful implementation and sustainable improvements within organizations.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is the first study of its kind to examine the CFFs of five PI methodologies and introduces a novel approach derived from change management theory as a solution to minimize the risk associated with PI failure.
Exploring women entrepreneurs' push–pull motives and challenges: empirical evidence in an emerging economy
Authors: Nayak Madhukara , Nayak Pushparaj M. , Birau Ramona , Wanke Peter , Tan Yong Aaron
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Research on women-owned businesses is more extensive in developed countries than in developing countries. This prompted the authors to investigate the factors that affect women entrepreneurs' motives to start a business and the challenges they faced in running their businesses in India.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the analysis were collected from 620 respondents using a structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews with 20 women entrepreneurs. The data were then analyzed using descriptive and factor analysis in the statistical software “SPSS” (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences).

Findings

The findings showed that the primary motivation for women to launch their own business was to achieve self-employment. Other motivations include increasing income and allowing women to follow their passion. Factor analysis indicates that women entrepreneurs are more motivated by push than pull factors. The research also shows that women encounter challenges in their entrepreneurial journey, such as access to financing, issues with gender equality and social and cultural obligations.

Originality/value

The study on women entrepreneurs in the Indian context is limited. This study responds to a need of better understanding of women motivations and challenges. By studying these constructs, the study shows that start-up motives and challenges faced by female entrepreneurs are unique to different contexts.