bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caveolin-1 restrains pathogenic T follicular helper cell response in primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Lin Xiang , Yu Sulan , Wu Meiling , Zeng Weizhen , Fu Weiwei , Chen Yacun , Xie Jing , Li Philip , Feng Yun , Shen Jiangang
Published: September 2023

T follicular helper (Tfh) cells play a central role in humoral autoimmunity, including primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). However, targeting Tfh cells is challenging in clinical management. Previous studies suggested inducible T­cell co­stimulator (ICOS) directed Tfh cell motility in engaging bystander B cells. Here, we identified a novel function of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) in restraining Tfh cell motility, in which Icos transcription was repressed by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), unexpectedly, independence of lipid metabolism. In the context of autoimmunity, Cav-1 and PPARα expressions were decreased in CD4+ T cells from pSS patients and mice with experimental SS (ESS), while Cav-1 deficiency significantly exacerbated Tfh cell response and ESS pathology. Importantly, pharmaceutical activation of PPARα with fenofibrate effectively ameliorated ESS in mice with acute or chronic inflammation. These results revealed an unrecognized role of Cav-1/PPARα axis in Tfh cell tolerance, suggesting PPARα as a promising target in the treatment of humoral autoimmunity.
Catalytic Enantioselective Primary C-H Borylation for Acyclic All-carbon Quaternary Stereocenters
Authors: Xu Senmiao , Yang Yuhuan , Chen Jingyao , Shi Yongjia , Liu Peizhi , Feng Yuxiang , Peng Qian
Published: September 2023

Creating a perfect catalyst to operate enzyme-like chiral recognition is a long-sought aim. A challenging example in this context is constructing acyclic all-carbon quaternary stereogenic centers by transition-metal catalyzed enantioselective C-H activation. We now report highly enantioselective iridium-catalyzed primary C-H borylation of α-all-carbon substituted 2,2-dimethyl amides enabled by a tailor-made chiral bidentate boryl ligand (CBL). The success of the current transformation attributes to CBL/iridium catalyst with a confined chiral pocket. This protocol provides a diverse array of acyclic all-carbon quaternary stereocenters with excellent enantiocontrol and distinct structural features. Computational study reveals that steric hindrance of CBL could regulate the type of dominant orbital interaction between the catalyst and the substrate, which is crucial to conferring high chiral induction.
Individual in-situ GPS-derived acceleration-speed profiling: towards automatization and refinement
Authors: Miguens Nathan , Brocherie Franck , Moulié Loïc , Milhet Patrick , Bon Mathieu , Lassus Pierre , Toussaint Jean-François , Sedeaud Adrien
Published: September 2023

Background:
Recently a proof-of-concept was proposed to derive the soccer players’ individual in-situ acceleration-speed (AS) profile from global positioning system (GPS) data collected over several sessions. The present study aimed to validate an automatized method of individual GPS-derived in-situ AS profiling in professional rugby union setting.
Method:
AS profiles of forty-nine male professional rugby union players representing 61.5 million positions, from which acceleration was derived from speed during 51 training sessions and 11 official games, were analyzed. A density-based clustering algorithm was applied to identify outlier points. Multiple AS linear relationships were modeled for each player and session, generating numerous theoretical maximal acceleration (A0), theoretical maximal running speed (S0) and AS slope (ASslope, i.e., overall orientation of the AS profile). Each average provides information on the most relevant value while the standard deviation denotes the method accuracy. In order to assess the reliability of the AS profile within the data collection period, data were compared over two 2-weeks phases by the inter-class correlation coefficient. A0 and S0 between positions and type of sessions (trainings and games) were compared using ANOVA and post hoc tests when the significant threshold had been reached.
Results:
All AS individual profiles show linear trends with high coefficient of determination (r² > 0.81). Good reliability (Inter-class Correlation Coefficient range between 0.92, to 0.72) was observed between AS profiles, when determined 2 weeks apart for each player. AS profiles depend on players’ positions, types of training and games. Training and games data highlight that highest A0 are obtained during games, while greatest S0 are attained during speed sessions.
Conclusions:
This study provides individual in-situ GPS-derived AS profiles with automatization capability. The method calculates an error of measurement for A0 and S0, of paramount importance in order to improve their daily use. The AS profile differences between training, games and playing positions open several perspectives for performance testing, training monitoring, injury prevention and return-to-sport sequences in professional rugby union, with possible transferability in other sprint-based sports.
TLR-2 derangements likely play a significant role in the inflammatory response and thrombosis in patients with Ph(-) classical myeloproliferative neoplasm
Authors: Wang Jen Chin , Shi Guanfang , Chen Chi , Wong Ching , Gotlieb Vladimir , Boyapat Lakshmi i , Sun Lithi , Nair Kiron
Published: September 2023

This study investigated TLRs on inflammatory pathways in Ph(-)MPNs. The results showed that TLR2 were increased in PV and MPN (PV + ET + MF), while TLR4 were only increased in MPN. TLR3, 7, and 9 were not elevated. We further cultured mdDC cells and demonstrating TLR2 elevated (TLR-E) patients secreted more cytokines than TLR2 normal (TLR-N), confirming the importance of TLR2. S100A9 and ROS were also measured, revealing S100A9 levels were increased in PV, MF, and MPN, while ROS levels increased only in MF and not in PV or ET. This data suggests that the pathogenesis of MPNs initially involves TLR2, minorly fromTLR4, along with S100A9 then induce ROS formation, JAK2 mutation,, leading ET and PV evolved into MF or leukemia. Further analysis of the data and studies, we found. 1) patients with Jak2 mutations or leukocytosis exhibited higher TLR2 expression, 2) cells from MPN patients displayed a stronger response to PM3CSK4 (TLR2 agonist) in leukocyte-platelet interaction compared to LPS ( TLR4 agonist). Adding TLR-2 inhibitor (not TLR-4 inhibitor) significantly attenuated this response, 3) TLR2-E patients experienced more thrombosis (29%) than TLR2-N (19%). These findings also suggest TLR2 plays a significant role in thrombosis in MPN.
Electrolytic cement clinker production sustained through orthogonalization of ion vectors
Authors: Berlinguette Curtis , Zhang Zishuai , Mowbray Benjamin , Parkyn Colin , Kim Yongwook , Ji Tengxiao , Ren Shaoxuan
Published: September 2023

Electrochemical reactors can reduce the carbon intensity of cement production by using electricity to convert limestone (CaCO3) into Ca(OH)2, which can be converted into cement clinker by reacting t with silica (SiO2) at high temperatures. A key challenge with this method is that the deposition of solid Ca(OH)2 at the membrane leads to unacceptably low energy efficiencies. To address this challenge, we connected the electrochemical reactor (“cement electrolyser”) to a distinctive chemical reactor (“calcium reactor”) so that Ca(OH)2 could form there instead of forming within the electrochemical reactor. In this tandem system, the cement electrolyser generates H+ and OH– in the respective chemical and cathode compartments. The H+ then reacts with CaCO3 to form Ca2+ ions, which are diverted into the calcium reactor to react with the OH– to form Ca(OH)2. We fabricated a composite membrane to selectively block the transport of Ca2+ into the cathode compartment. Charge balance in the cement reactor was enabled with monovalent ions (e.g., K+) as the positive charge carrier. This orthogonalized ion management was validated by operando imaging. The tandem reactor enabled the electrolysis process to operate for 50 hours at 100 mA cm-2 without any voltage increase, which represents a meaningful step forward for electrochemical cement clinker precursor production.
Experiences of Family Caregivers in Dealing with Cases of Advanced Breast Cancer: A Qualitative Study of the Sociocultural Context in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Jabeen Sadia , Zakar Rubeena , Zakar Muhammad Zakria , Fischer Florian
Published: September 2023

Background
Among patients with advanced breast cancer, constant help and support are required from family caregivers. However, caregivers themselves go through a difficult situation. Much of the experiences is influenced by sociocultural factors. Thus, this study aimed at exploring the experiences of family caregivers of advanced breast cancer patients.
Methods
We collected data through in-depth interviews from fifteen family caregivers of advanced breast cancer patients in three major cities of Punjab province in Pakistan. Data was analyzed by using thematic analysis.
Results
The study identified that experiences of family caregivers are built in the sociocultural context. Poor knowledge, financial constraints and sociocultural factors determined caregiving pressure, which may lead to stressful situations. Socially constructed values exert a pressure on the caregiver and limits the choice for medical consultation. The preference to consult spiritual healers is also an outcome of these culturally built mindset of caregivers. However, religion is also used as a mechanism to cope with stress. They may result in the delayed decision-making of seeking treatment for the patients.
Conclusions
Family caregivers are important stakeholders in timely treatment decision of advanced breast cancer patients. In order to reduce delays in treatment of patients and reduce the stress of caregiver, it is important to address the sociocultural barriers of seeking care. A tailored approach needs to be incorporated for the management of breast cancer early diagnosis on the basis of sociocultural and religious factors and practices.
Bio-oil From Coconut Fibers: Fractionation by Preparative Liquid Chromatography for Phenols Isolation
Authors: Farrapeira Rafael de Oliveira , Andrade Yasmine B , Conrado Nathalia Mendonça , Schneider Jaderson Kleveston , Krause Laiza Canielas , Caramão Elina Bastos
Published: September 2023

The great potential of bio-products generated from agro-industrial residues from the biomass processing, as is the case of the green coconut fibers (Cocos nucifera L. var. dwarf), makes that Brazil stands out in the field of transformation of these residues, mainly due to its high biodiversity and favorable climatic conditions. In this work, residual green coconut fibers were used in the production of bio-oil by pyrolysis. The bio-oil was fractionated using preparative liquid chromatography in silica (PLC) using solvents at different polarities. Bio-oil and its fractions were analyzed by GC/qMS. PLC of bio-oil increased the number of compounds identified by about 170% compared to the original bio-oil (non-fractionated), besides allowing the isolation of nonpolar compounds (mostly hydrocarbons), from polar compounds (mainly phenols, aldehydes and ketones). Among the compounds, phenols can be highlighted, besides furfural derivatives and hydrocarbons, which indicates the potential use of bio-oil mainly for industrial purposes.
Nuclear factor interleukin 3 and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease development
Authors: Wu Liling , Lin Yung-Ni , Hsu Jia-Rou , Wang Chih-Lin , Huang Yi-Chen , Wu Chun-Ying
Published: September 2023

This study investigated sex-specific effects in a gain-of-function model to evaluate Nfil3 function in relation to high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and gut microbiota (GM)-induced alterations in the bile acid (BA) profile. MASLD was induced in wild type and Nfil3-deficient (NKO) C57BL/6J mice fed an HFD. The hepatic immune response was evaluated using flow cytometry. The NKO mice exhibited reduced body weight, serum triglyceride (TG) levels, tissue injury, inflammation, and fat accumulation. The Nfil3 deletion reduced macrophage counts in fibrotic liver tissues, decreased proinflammatory gene and protein expression, and diminished gut barrier function. Alpha and beta diversity analysis revealed increased GM alpha diversity in different sexes. The Nfil3 gene deletion altered the BA profile. Negative feedback via the Nfil3-FXR-FGF15 axis recycles BAs from the liver via enterohepatic circulation. Ultimately, Nfil3 inhibition in the liver could present a potential MASLD treatment option.
Fungal community of multiple compartment niches in spring rapeseed (Brassica rapa L. and Brassica napus L.) responses to different cultivars on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Peng Qingqing , Xie Zhanling , Tang Guoyong , Jiang Hongchen , Guo Jing , Mao Yujing , Wang Bao , Meng Qing , Yang Jiabao , Jia Shunbin , La Mengyue
Published: September 2023

Background
Spring rapeseed has developed specific associations with fungi to adapt to extreme environments on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). However, the correlation among rapeseed, fungi and soil on the QTP remain largely unexplored.
Methods
This study comparatively analyzed the fungal diversity and community in multiple compartment niches (rhizosphere soil, root, stem and leaf) in Brassica rapa L. (Haoyou No. 11) and Brassica napus L. (Qingza No. 4, Qingza No.5, Qingza No. 7, Qingza No. 9, Qingza No. 12 and Qingza No. 15). Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) genes were sequenced by High-throughput Illumina sequencing, followed by function prediction using FUNGuild.
Results
B. napus exhibited higher fungal diversity in plant tissues than B. rapa, while B. rapa demonstrated higher fungal richness in the rhizosphere soil (p < 0.05). Olpidium (66.29%), Lactarius (18.37%), and Verticillium (1.99%) were the most abundant genera, and 46 key genera prevalent in all niches and cultivars. Additionally, 19 biomarkers were identified, with Lactarius, Coprinellus, Mortierella and Vishniacozyma significantly enriched in cultivars Qingza No. 15, Qingza No. 12, Qingza No. 7, and Qingza No. 4, respectively, while Haoyou No. 11 harbored 15 other genera. Among them, Saprotroph-Symbiotroph (45.00%) as the dominant guild in the rhizosphere soil. Correlation network analysis indicated that the abundant and key genera showed significantly positive correlations with yield, and fungal biomarkers may contribute to the promotion of plant growth and stress resistance in rapeseed (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
This study provides valuable insights into the relationship between rapeseed and fungal communities on the QTP.
HIV Mortality and Associated Factors in Patients Admitted at a Tertiary-care Hospital in Uganda, A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Owachi Darius , Akatukunda Praise , Nanyanzi Diana Sarah , Katwesigye Rogers , Wanyina Shardrack , Muddu Martin , Kawuma Samuel , Kalema Nelson , Kabugo Charles , Semitala Fred C.
Published: September 2023

Background: Outcomes for Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) admitted to hospitals in Uganda are relatively unknown. We determined the prevalence of mortality and associated factors in PLHIV admitted at a tertiary-level public hospital in Uganda.
Methods: We used routinely collected data for PLHIV admitted at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital (KNRH) from March 2020 to March 2023 to perform a cross-sectional analysis for mortality (using proportions) and associated factors using a logistic regression model.
Results: Of the 5,827 PLHIV admitted, 3293 (56.51%) were female and the median age was 39 years (interquartile range [IQR] 31-49, range 12-98). CD4+ cell count was documented in 3,715 (63.75%) admitted PLHIV with a median count of 109 cells/µL (IQR 25-343, range 0-1,475). At admission, 3,710 (63.67%) were actively taking their antiretroviral therapy (ART), 1,144 (19.63%) had interrupted ART for more than three months and 973 (16.70%) were not on ART. Functional status impairment (measured using Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group [ECOG] score 3-4) was observed in 2,225 (38.18%) PLHIV.
Overall mortality was 26% (1,524) with a median time-to-death of 3 days (IQR 1-7, range 0-88). Factors associated with mortality included Function impairment odds ratio 7.23 (95%CI 6.31-8.29; undocumented CD4+ cell count 1.53 (95%CI 1.33-1.76, P<0.001); distance >20 Km from hospital 1.21 (95%CI 1.03-1.43, P=0.024); ART interruption 1.34 (95%CI 1.14-1.59; P<0.001); being male 1.16 (95%CI 1.02-1.32, P=0.029); severe malnutrition 1.81 (95%CI 1.51-2.16; P<0.001); COVID19 disease 1.74 (95%CI 1.24-2.43; P=0.001); liver disease 1.75 (95%CI 1.35-2.28; P<0.001); kidney disease 1.64 (95%CI 1.31-2.05; P<0.001); non-opportunistic infections 1.52 (95%CI 1.30-1.77, P<0.001); and anaemia 1.25 (95%CI 1.02-1.54, P=0.034).
Conclusion: One in every four admitted PLHIV died during hospitalization. Early identification and management of associated risk factors such as ART interruption, function impairment, baseline CD4+ tests and screening for non-communicable diseases, may avert poor hospital outcomes.
Topological Elasticity in Physical Gels with Limited Valence
Authors: Fosado Yair Augusto Gutierrez , Palombo Giorgia , Weir Simon , Michieletto Davide
Published: September 2023

Understanding the connection between a material’s microscopic network topology and its macroscopic properties is a fundamental open challenge across a wide range of physical systems. Here, we investigate the elasticity of DNA nanostar hydrogels – a model system for networks with limited valence – by coupling rheology measurements, confocal imaging and molecular dynamics simulations. We discover that these networks display a large degree of interpenetration and that loops within the network are topologically linked, forming a percolating network-within-network structure. Strikingly, we discover that the onset of topological links between shortest loops fully determines the elasticity of these physical gels. We thus argue that the elasticity of limited valence gels is not dictated by their fractal microstructure, but by the topology of looped motifs. Our findings highlight the emergence of “topological elasticity” as a previously overlooked mechanism in generic network-forming liquids and physical gels and will inspire the design of topologically-controllable material behaviours.
Measuring Hazard-Free Improved Shelter across the Regions of India
Authors: Sarif Nawaj , K A.H. Sruthi Anil , Barman Papai , Rana MD. Juel , Saha Sunil
Published: September 2023

Global climate change poses an increasingly dire threat to habitats, livelihoods, and communities worldwide. In this study, we have tried to examine the state of improved shelter facilities in India, utilizing the methodology outlined by UN-Habitat. The findings of our research alarm that over one-third of India's population lacks access to adequate shelter. Moreover, a significant disparity in the availability of improved shelter facilities is observed across various states in India. In regions prone to hazards such as floods and earthquakes, there is a considerable lag in terms of improved shelter provisions. On the other hand, non-hazardous areas demonstrate relatively higher rates of access to improved shelter. Our study reveals a marked distinction between improved shelter and hazard-free improved shelter estimates. Merely two out of every five households in India can be considered safe from the perils of floods, landslides, and earthquakes. However, the situation is considerably worse in rural areas, where both improved shelter and hazard-free improved shelter are scarce. This highlights the urgent need to adopt hazard-free improved shelter as a more refined metric for housing, as it can prove instrumental in guiding effective planning and policymaking initiatives. To ensure a risk-free living environment for future generations, it is imperative to undertake micro-level vulnerability mapping and conduct comprehensive risk assessments for various hazards. Furthermore, the government must take proactive measures to promote resilient housing infrastructure as a crucial component of sustainable development.
Aucan affects autophagy induced apoptosis of glioma cells via regulating EGLN1
Authors: Wang Feng , Xu Jing , Bao Machicheng , He Xiaoqiong , Liu Jia
Published: September 2023

C18H17NO6(Aucan) is derived from a special plant in Yunnan Province, Lichen Lethariella cladonioides, which is also a traditional medicine in Yunnan Province. A novel natural anticancer active molecule obtained from chloroform extract of leaf moth (Lethariella cladonioides) by utilizing photochemical techniques (patent No. 201710388136.8). Has certain curative effect on glioma. Choosing Aucan treated human U251 and LN229 glioma cell lines, CCK-8 assay was used to detect IC50 of Aucan, MTT assay, Colony formation assay, Flow cytometry, Wound healing assay and Transwell experiment were used to evaluate the effects of Aucan on proliferation, migration and apoptosis of glioma cells. The effect of Aucan on glioma was studied by constructing subcutaneous tumor formation model in nude mice and obtaining relevant data such as image, tumor volume and survival time. The molecular target of Aucan affecting glioma was searched through network pharmacology, and EGLN1 was found to be the key gene. Aucan can affect the proliferation and migration of glioma cells, inhibit the growth of glioma and improve the survival rate of nude mice. Bioinformatics analysis found that EGLN1 was associated with autophagy and apoptosis. qPCR detected significant expression of EGLN1 in glioma tissue and glioma cells, and the expression of EGLN1 in glioma cells decreased after Aucan treatment. The experimental results showed that EGLN1 did affect the occurrence of glioma autophagy, and Aucan also induced apoptosis of glioma cells by affecting autophagy. The results of this study indicate that Aucan can affect autophagy induced apoptosis of glioma cells via regulating EGLN1, thus affecting the occurrence and development of tumors.
Role of Critical Stress in Quantifying the Magnitude of Fluid-Injection Triggered Earthquakes
Authors: Yu Jiayi , Eijsink Agathe , Marone Chris , Riviere Jacques , Shokouhi Parisa , Elsworth Derek
Published: September 2023

Understanding and mitigating fluid-injection-induced-seismicity is a key need in the routine implementation of net-zero-carbon energy (CCS, geothermal) and other industrial operations (hydraulic fracturing, subsurface wastewater disposal). We directly constrain the impact of pre-existing critical stresses on the relation linking seismic moment to injection volume. We report shear reactivation experiments on laboratory faults triggered by fluid pressurization. Experiments are conducted under both zero-displacement and constant shear stress boundary conditions – differentiating the role of stress relaxation during fault slip. Both are shown capable of linking event magnitude (\(M\)) with injected volume (\({\Delta }V\)) and fault pre-stress. Injection response defines two discrete and linear stages in \(M-{\Delta }V\)space linked by a discrete up-step. The first limb (stage) represents the elastic deformation of the fault, the vertical up-step its reactivation and the second limb the rupture response as incremented sliding. Faults loaded to different pre-stress identify and quantify the controlling role of pre-existing shear stress in conditioning event magnitude. Laboratory results are readily explained by a model that considers the pre-existing stress state in the rupture of a rigid fault with slip limited to the zone of pressurization. This cumulative moment is defined as \(M=\frac{c}{1-c}G{\Delta }V\) with c defining the proportion of the static stress drop already applied by tectonic stressing, alternatively viewed as the proximity to failure. The model and confirmatory laboratory observations explain the occurrence of triggered earthquakes at EGS sites significantly larger than expected based on previous models relative to injection volumes.
Autophagy regulates the maturation of hematopoietic precursors in the embryo
Authors: Liu Yumin , Shi Linjuan , Chen Yifan , Luo Sifan , Chen Yuehang , Chen Hongtian , Lan Wenlang , Lu Xun , Cao Zhan , Ye Zehua , Li Jinping , Yu Bo , Dzierzak Elaine , Li Zhuan
Published: September 2023

The ability to generate hematopoietic stem cells(HSC) in vitro is advancing as a powerful resource for the treatment of blood diseases. An understanding of the mechanisms regulating HSC development in the embryo would facilitate the achievement of this goal. The aorta-gonad-mesonephros(AGM) region is the site of HSC production in the embryo. As these cells are formed from hemogenic endothelial cells(HEC) and appear as hematopoietic clusters on the lumenal side of the aorta. While several distinct regulators are known to be involved in this process, it is not yet known whether macroautophagy(autophagy) plays a role in hematopoietic development in the pre-liver stage of embryo development. Here, by using the LC3-RFP-EGFP autophagy reporter mouse model, we show that different states of autophagy exist in hematopoietic precursors, and correlate with hematopoietic potential. Deficiency of the autophagy-related gene(Atg) 5 specifically in endothelial cells disrupted endothelial cell to hematopoietic transition(EHT), by blocking the fusion between autophagosome and lysosome. Using combined approaches, including single-cell RNA-sequencing(scRNA-seq), we confirmed that Atg5 deletion interrupted the developmental temporal order of EHT to further affect the pre-HSC I maturation. The rescue experiments with in vivo analyses suggest that autophagy influenced the hemogenic potential of HEC and the formation of pre-HSC I likely via the nucleolin pathway. These findings demonstrate a vital role for autophagy in the formation/maturation of hematopoietic precursors derived from HECs.
Should undergraduate dental students perform molar root canal treatment? An observational study of procedural errors in root canal treatments
Authors: El-Ma'aita Ahmad , Mahasneh Sari , Hamandi Maryam , Al-Rabab’ah Mohammad
Published: September 2023

Background
Molar root canal treatment (RCT) is challenging and requires training and specific skills. Rotary instrumentation (RI) reduced the time needed for instrumentation but may increase the risk of certain procedural errors. The aims of this study were to assess the quality of molar RCTs provided by undergraduate students, to compare the incidence of procedural errors following manual and RI, and to report on the students’ perspective on performing this treatment.
Methods
Molar RCTs performed by the final year students in 2022 were evaluated radiographically according to predefined criteria. Treatment details, procedural errors and the overall treatment quality were recorded as well as the students’ perception of the treatments provided. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-squared test were used to detect any statistically significant differences.
Results
60.5% of RCTs were insufficient. RI resulted in more sufficient treatments (48.6% vs 30% for manual instrumentation (MI), X2: 7.39, p = 0.007), required fewer visits to complete (2.9 vs 4.6 for MI, X2: 67.23, p < 0.001) and was the preferred technique by 93.1% of students. The most common procedural errors were underextension of the root canal obturation (48.4%), insufficient obturation (45.5%) and improper coronal seal (35.2%) without a significant difference between the two groups. Overextension and canal transportation were more frequently seen with MI. 26.4% of the participants were not confident to perform molar RCT without supervision.
Conclusion
Molar RCT is a technically demanding procedure and might require training beyond the level of undergraduate education. RI partially improved the quality of RCT compared with MI.
ZEPPI: proteome-scale sequence-based evaluation of protein-protein interaction models
Authors: Honig Barry , Zhao Haiqing , Murray Diana , Petrey Donald
Published: September 2023

We introduce ZEPPI (Z-score Evaluation of Protein-Protein Interfaces), a framework to evaluate structural models of a complex based on sequence co-evolution and conservation involving residues in protein-protein interfaces. The ZEPPI score is calculated by comparing metrics for an interface to those obtained from randomly chosen residues. Since contacting residues are defined by the structural model, this obviates the need to account for indirect interactions. Further, although ZEPPI relies on species-paired multiple sequence alignments, its focus on interfacial residues allows it to leverage quite shallow alignments. ZEPPI performance is evaluated through applications to experimentally determined complexes and to decoys from the CASP-CAPRI experiment. ZEPPI can be implemented on a proteome-wide scale as evidenced by calculations on millions of structural models of dimeric complexes in the E. coli and human interactomes found in the PrePPI database. A number of examples that illustrate how these tools can yield novel functional hypotheses are provided.
Birth plans : Developing a shared medical decision aid tool
Authors: GOETZ-FU M , GAUCHER L , HUISSOUD C , FOURNIERE B DE LA , DUPONT C , CORTET M
Published: September 2023

Objective(s)

Birth plans appeared at the end of the 20th century, enabling women to express their expectations towards childbirth. This reflects a rising demand for patients to take a proactive role in their medical care. This study aimed to collaboratively develop a medical decision aid with expectant mothers to prepare them better for the events surrounding their child’s birth.

Study Design

Five topics frequently addressed in birth plans were identified by both patients’ associations, using semi-structured interview with representatives of women’s associations, and professionals, using an online poll. Focus workgroups with perinatal care professionals initially drafted items designed to guide expectant mothers in developing their birth plans and actively participating in childbirth decisions. We used a modified Delphi-consensus in three rounds to retain the most relevant items. The first two rounds engaged a multidisciplinary team of professionals, while the third involved expectant mothers from two maternity wards in Lyon, France. Items that received a rating between 3 (good value) and 4 (excellent value) on a 4-point scale by more than 75% of participants were deemed consensual. The study assessed inter-rater agreement using the Fleiss kappa score.

Results

The professional working groups proposed a total of 124 items distributed across five themes: analgesia during labour, drug administration before and during labour, events in the delivery room, initial neonatal care, and perineal protection. Ultimately, 65.3% of the initial 124 items were deemed relevant by both the experts and the expectant mothers. Notably, the most significant differences in consensus centered around analgesia and the complexity of information. Non-medicinal analgesic methods were favored by mothers-to-be but not by professionals. Conversely, detailed information on delayed chord clamping were favored by experts.

Conclusions

A modified Delphi consensus was used to create with expectant mothers a decision aid tool to help them write their birth projects, addressing five main topics that are frequently reported in the literature. We now need to test this tool in clinical practice to assess its relevance in routine obstetrics consultation.
Cancer associated fibroblast secreted miR-432-5p targets CHAC1 to inhibit ferroptosis and promote acquired chemoresistance in prostate cancer
Authors: HongBin Sun , Zhao Jun , Shen Jijie , Mao Liang , Yang Tianli , Liu Jinyu
Published: September 2023

Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death in which the accumulation of intracellular iron promotes lipid peroxidation, leading to cell death. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are an integral part of the tumor microenvironment and play an important role in tumorigenesis. To understand the potential mechanisms of chemoresistance in prostate cancer, we investigated the role of CAF-derived exosomes in ferroptosis. CAF exosomes inhibited erastin-induced lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in prostate cancer cells and reduced erastin induced damage to mitochondria, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis in prostate cancer cells. miR-432-5p inhibits ferroptosis in prostate cancer cells by targeting CHAC1 to reduce glutathione (GSH) depletion in cells thereby inhibiting ferroptosis. miR-432-5p inhibition enhances the drug sensitivity of PC (prostate cancer) cells in vivo. We found that exosomal miR-432-5p secreted by CAF targets CHAC1 via the ferroptosis pathway, thereby promoting chemoresistance in PC. This study provides a new approach for docetaxel resistance.
One substrate-many enzymes virtual screening uncovers missing genes of carnitine biosynthesis in human and mouse
Authors: Percudani Riccardo , Malatesta Marco , Zangelmi Erika , Peracchi Alessio , Secchi Andrea , Fornasier Emanuele , Gabriele Giachin , Battistutta Roberto , Salvo Martino Di , Contestabile Roberto , Tramonti Angela , Polverini Eugenia
Published: September 2023

The increasing availability of experimental and computational protein structures entices their use for function prediction. We developed a structure-based automated procedure to identify proteins involved in metabolic reactions by evaluating substrate conformations docked to a library of enzyme active sites. By screening AlphaFold-modeled vitamin B6-dependent enzymes, we found that a metric based on catalytically favorable conformations performed best (AUROC score=0.84) in identifying genes related to known enzymatic reactions. Applying this procedure, we identified the mammalian gene encoding hydroxytrimethyllysine aldolase (HTMLA), the second enzyme of carnitine biosynthesis. Experimental validation showed that the top-ranked candidates, serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT) 1 and 2, catalyze the HTMLA reaction. However, a mouse protein (threonine aldolase; Tha1) catalyzes the reaction more efficiently. Tha1 did not rank highest based on the AlphaFold model, but its rank improved to second place using the experimental crystal structure we determined at 2.26 Å resolution. We propose that mouse Tha1 be renamed as Htmla. Our findings suggest that humans have lost a gene involved in carnitine biosynthesis, with HTMLA activity of SHMT partially compensating for its function.
Exploring the gut virome in fecal immunochemical test stool samples reveals novel associations with lifestyle in a large population-based study
Authors: Rounge Trine , Istvan Paula , Birkeland Einar , Avershina Ekaterina , Kværner Ane , Bemanian Vahid , de Vos Willem , Rognes Torbjørn , Berstad Paula
Published: September 2023

Stool samples for fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) are collected in large numbers worldwide as part of colorectal cancer screening programs, but to our knowledge, the utility of these samples for virome studies is still unexplored. Employing FIT samples from 1034 CRCbiome participants, recruited from a Norwegian colorectal cancer screening study, we identified and annotated more than 18000 virus clusters (vOTUs), using shotgun metagenome sequencing. Only six percent of vOTUs were assigned to a known taxonomic family, with Microviridae being the most prevalent viral family. Genome integration state was family-associated, and the majority of identified viruses were unintegrated. Linking individual profiles to comprehensive lifestyle and demographic factors showed 17/25 of them to be associated with the gut virome. Physical activity, smoking, and dietary fiber consumption exhibited strong and consistent associations with both diversity and relative abundance of individual vOTUs, as well as with enrichment for auxiliary metabolic genes.
We demonstrate the suitability of FIT samples for virome analysis, opening an opportunity for large-scale studies of this yet enigmatic part of the gut microbiome. The diverse viral populations and their connections to the individual lifestyle uncovered herein paves the way for further exploration of the role of the gut virome in health and disease.
Left main and Three Vessels Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection As An Incidental Finding In Young Man with History of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma-A Case Report
Authors: Kavyani Raheleh , Salari Soheila , Norozi Zeinab , Hosseini Saeid , Abdi Saifullah , Rai Alireza , Maleki Majid
Published: September 2023

Background: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection is a rare and important cause of myocardial infarction, especially in young women without other coronary artery disease . This arterial dissection can occur within or between any of the 3 layers.
Its predisposing factors include connective tissue diseases (Marfone syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), vasculitis (polyarteritis nodosa, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Kawasaki disease), atherosclerosis and fibromuscular dysplasia.
Clinical presentations of spontaneous coronary artery dissection are wide spectrum from asymptomatic to acute coronary disease, sustained ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.
Case presentation: We describe A 33-year-old man with history of Hodgkin's lymphoma five years earlier that became a candidate for Patent foramen ovale closure due to recurrent embolic cerebrovascular accident . Before the intervention, coronary angiography incidentally showed dissection in the left main and all major coronary arteries.
Conclusions: Based on our hypothesis, chemoradiotherapy-induced arteriopathies could be consider as a predisposing factor for spontaneous coronary artery dissection.
Flatband slows down polariton dynamics in strongly coupled cavities
Authors: Pirruccio Giuseppe , García-Jomaso Yesenia , Vargas Brenda , Ley-Domínguez David , Armenta-Rico Román , Sauceda Huziel E. , Romero Cesar Ordonez , Lara-García Hugo , Camacho-Guardian Arturo
Published: September 2023

Flatbands in condensed-matter, atomic physics, and quantum optics stand as the basis for several strongly correlated quantum many-body phenomena such as Wigner crystallization, the fractional quantum Hall effect and Moiré-related physics. Besides inspiring analogies among diverse physical fields, flatbands are highly sought-after in photonics because they allow unconventional light flows such as slow-light. Here, we realize room-temperature slow-light with Frenkel polaritons excited across two strongly coupled cavities. We demonstrate the formation of a tuneable flatband appearing in the absence of a periodic in-plane potential. Our simple photonic architecture enables the unique spatial segregation of photons and excitons in different cavities and maintains a balanced degree of mixing between them. This unveils a dynamical competition between many-body scattering processes and the underlying polariton nature, which leads to an increased fluorescence lifetime. The polariton features are further revealed under appropriate resonant pumping, where we observe suppression of the flatband polariton fluorescence intensity.
Effects of iodine intake on gut microbiota community and metabolites: interactions between gut dysbiosis and Hashimoto thyroiditis
Authors: Wang Chuyuan , Gong Boshen , Meng Fanrui , Wang Xichang , Han Yutong , Yang Wanyu , Shan Zhongyan
Published: September 2023

Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is an organ-specific autoimmune disease associated with iodine intake. Increasing evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays an important role between the gut and thyroid in HT pathogenesis, which is known as the microbiota-gut-thyroid axis. However, the mechanism by which iodine intake alters the microbiota and causes HT remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the mechanisms by which iodine intake influences gut dysbiosis and HT. We recruited 23 patients with HT and 25 healthy individuals to investigate alterations in the gut microbiota composition and metabolic characteristics. Furthermore, we established a spontaneously developed thyroiditis mouse model using NOD.H-2h4 mice underlying the influence of iodine intake on HT progression. The butanoate metabolism significantly differed beween these two groups according to the enrichment results, and butyric acid were significantly decreased in patients with HT compared with those healthy individuales. Gut dysbiosis contributes to TH17/Treg imbalance through a pathway regulated by the reduction of butyric acid. We demonstrated that excessive iodine intake significantly altered the composition of the intestinal flora, leading to gut dysbiosis and metabolic changes via the microbiota-gut-thyroid axis.
Typhoon Disaster Research on Solar Photovoltaic Equipment in Taiwan
Authors: Li Hsin-Chi , Tzeng Rong-Yu Veneta , Chang Chia-Wei
Published: September 2023

In April 2017, the government of Taiwan passed the amendment to "Energy Development Guidelines," officially beginning the race of domestic energy transformation. The purpose was not only to reduce the usage of fossil fuels but also to diversify the risk of energy shortage. Among various renewable energy applications, the solar photovoltaic industry played a crucial role in the market. However, Taiwan's location is prone to typhoon disasters and poses the most significant threat to the solar photovoltaic industry. With an average of four typhoons hitting the island each year, events like Typhoon Soudelor in 2015 and Typhoon Meranti in 2016 brought power winds, causing severe damage to solar panels across Taiwan and increasing investment risks in the industry. Therefore, effectively adapting to the environment with frequent typhoons in Taiwan will be an important goal for disaster prevention in the solar photovoltaic industry. This study conducted a questionnaire survey during three typhoon events: Typhoon Soudelor, Typhoon Nepartak, and Typhoon Meranti, to analyze the disaster situation of solar photovoltaic equipment during typhoon events. The results indicated that the actual loss rates for solar photovoltaic equipment during Typhoon Soudelor, Typhoon Nepartak, and Typhoon Meranti were 5.6%, 2.3%, and 1.4%, respectively. Additionally, the losses of solar photovoltaic equipment showed a significant positive correlation with wind speed. The loss rate of the equipment may be three times more when the wind speed doubles.
Characterizing the gut microbiota composition in Taiwanese hypertensive patients using 16S rRNA sequencing analysis
Authors: Chen Ming-Shan , Jiang Shin-Kuang , Chong Zhi-Yong , Chiang Jou-Wei , Chen Yan-Min , Huang Hsin-Yu , Chen Jui-Chieh
Published: September 2023

Objective
Hypertension (HTN) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests a close relationship between HTN and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota.
Methods
In the present study, we recruited 23 HTN patients and 17 controls matched for demographic characteristics. DNA extracted from fecal samples of patients was subjected to Illumina MiSeq sequencing, targeting the V3-V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene for analysis. We compared the diversity and composition of gut microbiota between the two groups.
Results
The α-diversity of gut microbiota in HTN patients was similar to that in the control group. β-diversity analysis showed slight differences in microbial composition between the HTN and control groups. We used Welch's t-test to evaluate the significant difference in the bacterial composition of the top 20 ASVs between the HTN group and the control group, and the results showed that Tyzzerella was significantly increased, while Faecalibacterium was significantly decreased in the HTN group. We also conducted the Kruskal-Wallis test to compare the significant differences between the HTN group and the control group at various taxonomic levels (phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species). The results revealed that a significant reduction in the abundance of Faecalibacterium, Lachnospiraceae_UCG-004, Coprobacter, and Alphaproteobacteria in the HTN group compared to the control group. Additionally, Linear Discriminant Analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) results showed significant enrichment of Enterobacteriaceae in the HTN group, whereas Alphaproteobacteria, Lachnospiraceae_UCG_004, and Faecalibacterium dominated in the control group. As Faecalibacterium exhibited lower abundance in the HTN group according to the above results, we performed PCR using Faecalibacterium-specific primers and analyzed their levels through agarose gel electrophoresis, confirming the reduced abundance of Faecalibacterium in the HTN group. In addition, Tax4Fun2 analysis was employed to examine differences in microbial functionality between the HTN group and the control group.
Conclusion
We studied the fecal microbiota of hypertensive population in Taiwan through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and found that Faecalibacterium has a lower abundance in hypertensive patients. This unique alteration in gut microbiota may provide insights into the pathogenesis of HTN and aid in the development of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Scalable anisotropic vibrations of megascale macromolecules
Authors: Katritch Vsevolod , Lam Jordy Homing , Nakano Aiichiro
Published: September 2023

The Normal Mode Analysis (NMA) is a standard approach to elucidate the anisotropic vibrations of macromolecules at their folded states, where low-frequency collective motions can reveal rearrangements of domains and changes in the exposed surface of macromolecules. Recent advances in structural biology have enabled the resolution of megascale macromolecules with millions of atoms. However, the calculation of their vibrational modes remains elusive due to the prohibitive cost associated with constructing and diagonalizing the underlying eigenproblem and the current approaches to NMA are not readily adaptable for efficient parallel computing on graphic processing unit (GPU). Here, we present eigenproblem construction and diagonalization approach that implements level-structure bandwidth-reducing algorithms to transform the sparse computation in NMA to a globally-sparse-yet-locally-dense computation, allowing batched tensor products to be most efficiently executed on GPU. We mapped, optimized, and compared several low-complexity Krylov-subspace eigensolvers, supplemented by techniques such as sum decomposition, external explicit deflation and shift-and-inverse, to allow fast GPU-resident calculations. The method allows accurate calculation of the first 64 vibrational modes of the largest structure in PDB (2.4 million atoms) at least 250 times faster than existing methods.
Genome-wide identification of the P450 gene family and their expression analysis during gonad development in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas)
Authors: Wang Weili , Zheng Haiqian , He Cheng , Zhang Chuanxu , Zhang Hongkuan , Zheng Huaiping
Published: September 2023

The cytochrome P450 (CYP) gene superfamily plays a significant role in various physiological processes, producing different compounds such as hormones, fatty acids, and biomolecules. However, no previous studies identify and explore their roles during gonad development in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas). In this study, total of 116 CYP genes were identified and their expression pattern was analyzed for the first time. The relative molecular weights of these CYP genes ranged from 63.52 to 113.41 kDa, and the length of encoded amino acids ranged from 103 to 993. And total of 26 cis-acting elements of these CYP genes was identified by analyzing their upstream sequence of 2000 bp from the transcription start site. GO enrichment analysis showed 16 CYP genes are essential for the metabolism of male and female sex hormones, while KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that 25 CgCYP (Crassostrea gigas CYP gene) genes are crucial for the production of ovarian steroids. Additionally, the expression of CgCYP15, CgCYP18, CgCYP79, and CgCYP87 genes was significantly up-regulated with the gonad development, and 17 CgCYP genes were overexpressed in early gonad development and triploid infertile individuals. The expression levels of specific genes, including CgCYP1, CgCYP15, CgCYP34, CgCYP46, CgCYP69, CgCYP87, CgCYP88, and CgCYP103, were found to be significantly higher in female gonad suggesting their important roles in female gonad development. The results of this study will provide a better understanding of the CYP gene superfamily in the gonad development of Pacific oyster C.gigas.