bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Buffering of transcription rate by mRNA half-life is a conserved feature of Rett syndrome models
Authors: Rodrigues Deivid C. , Mufteev Marat , Yuki Kyoko E. , Narula Ashrut , Wei Wei , Piekna Alina , Liu Jiajie , Pasceri Peter , Rissland Olivia S. , Wilson Michael D. , Ellis James
Published: April 2023

Transcriptional changes in Rett syndrome (RTT) are assumed to directly correlate with steady-state mRNA levels, but limited evidence in mice suggests that changes in transcription can be compensated by post-transcriptional regulation. We measure transcription rate and mRNA half-life changes in RTT patient neurons using RATEseq, and re-interpret nuclear and whole-cell RNAseq from Mecp2 mice. Genes are dysregulated by changing transcription rate or half-life and are buffered when both change. We utilized classifier models to predict the direction of transcription rate changes and find that combined frequencies of three dinucleotides are better predictors than CA and CG. MicroRNA and RNA-binding Protein (RBP) motifs are enriched in 3ʹUTRs of genes with half-life changes. Nuclear RBP motifs are enriched on buffered genes with increased transcription rate. We identify post-transcriptional mechanisms in humans and mice that alter half-life or buffer transcription rate changes when a transcriptional modulator gene is mutated in a neurodevelopmental disorder.
Ultrafast light targeting for high-throughput precise control of neuronal networks
Authors: Faini Giulia , Tanese Dimitrii , Molinier Clément , Telliez Cécile , Hamdani Massilia , Blot Francois , Tourain Christophe , de Sars Vincent , Del Bene Filippo , Forget Benoît C. , Ronzitti Emiliano , Emiliani Valentina
Published: April 2023

Two-photon, single-cell resolution optogenetics based on holographic light-targeting approaches enables the generation of precise spatiotemporal neuronal activity patterns and thus a broad range of experimental applications, such as high throughput connectivity mapping and probing neural codes for perception. Yet, current holographic approaches limit the resolution for tuning the relative spiking time of distinct cells to a few milliseconds, and the achievable number of targets to 100-200, depending on the working depth. To overcome these limitations and expand the capabilities of single-cell optogenetics, we introduce an ultra-fast sequential light targeting (FLiT) optical configuration based on the rapid switching of a temporally focused beam between holograms at kHz rates. We used FLiT to demonstrate two illumination protocols, termed hybrid- and cyclic-illumination, and achieve sub-millisecond control of sequential neuronal activation and high throughput multicell illumination in vitro (mouse organotypic and acute brain slices) and in vivo (zebrafish larvae and mice), while minimizing light-induced thermal rise. These approaches will be important for experiments that require rapid and precise cell stimulation with defined spatio-temporal activity patterns and optical control of large neuronal ensembles.
Etiology of oncogenic fusions in 5,190 childhood cancers and its clinical and therapeutic implication
Authors: Liu Yanling , Klein Jonathon , Bajpai Richa , Dong Li , Tran Quang , Kolekar Pandurang , Smith Jenny L. , Ries Rhonda E. , Huang Benjamin J. , Wang Yi-Cheng , Alonzo Todd A. , Tian Liqing , Mulder Heather L. , Shaw Timothy I. , Ma Jing , Walsh Michael P. , Song Guangchun , Westover Tamara , Autry Robert J. , Gout Alexander M. , Wheeler David A. , Wan Shibiao , Wu Gang , Yang Jun J. , Evans William E. , Loh Mignon , Easton John , Zhang Jinghui , Klco Jeffery M. , Meshinchi Soheil , Brown Patrick A. , Pruett-Miller Shondra M. , Ma Xiaotu
Published: April 2023

Oncogenic fusions formed through chromosomal rearrangements are hallmarks of childhood cancer that define cancer subtype, predict outcome, persist through treatment, and can be ideal therapeutic targets. However, mechanistic understanding of the etiology of oncogenic fusions remains elusive. Here we report a comprehensive detection of 272 oncogenic fusion gene pairs by using tumor transcriptome sequencing data from 5190 childhood cancer patients. We identify diverse factors, including translation frame, protein domain, splicing, and gene length, that shape the formation of oncogenic fusions. Our mathematical modeling reveals a strong link between differential selection pressure and clinical outcome in CBFB-MYH11. We discover 4 oncogenic fusions, including RUNX1-RUNX1T1, TCF3-PBX1, CBFA2T3-GLIS2, and KMT2A-AFDN, with promoter-hijacking-like features that may offer alternative strategies for therapeutic targeting. We uncover extensive alternative splicing in oncogenic fusions including KMT2A-MLLT3, KMT2A-MLLT10, C11orf95-RELA, NUP98-NSD1, KMT2A-AFDN and ETV6-RUNX1. We discover neo splice sites in 18 oncogenic fusion gene pairs and demonstrate that such splice sites confer therapeutic vulnerability for etiology-based genome editing. Our study reveals general principles on the etiology of oncogenic fusions in childhood cancer and suggests profound clinical implications including etiology-based risk stratification and genome-editing-based therapeutics.
Systematic comparison of tools used for m6A mapping from nanopore direct RNA sequencing
Authors: Zhong Zhen-Dong , Xie Ying-Yuan , Chen Hong-Xuan , Lan Ye-Lin , Liu Xue-Hong , Ji Jing-Yun , Wu Fu , Jin Lingmei , Chen Jiekai , Mak Daniel W. , Zhang Zhang , Luo Guan-Zheng
Published: April 2023

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has been increasingly recognized as a new and important regulator of gene expression. To date, transcriptome-wide m6A detection primarily relies on well-established methods using next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform. However, direct RNA sequencing (DRS) using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) platform has recently emerged as a promising alternative method to study m6A. While multiple computational tools are being developed to facilitate the direct detection of nucleotide modifications, little is known about the capabilities and limitations of these tools. Here, we systematically compare ten tools used for mapping m6A from ONT DRS data. We find that most tools present a trade-off between precision and recall, and integrating results from multiple tools greatly improve performance. Using a negative control could improve precision by subtracting certain intrinsic bias. We also observed variation in detection capabilities and quantitative information among motifs, and identified sequencing depth and m6A stoichiometry as potential factors affecting performance. Our study provides insight into the computational tools currently used for mapping m6A based on ONT DRS data and highlights the potential for further improving these tools, which may serve as the basis for future research.
Role of TMEM100 in mechanically insensitive nociceptor un-silencing
Authors: Nees Timo A. , Wang Na , Adamek Pavel , Zeitzschel Nadja , Verkest Clement , La Porta Carmen , Schaefer Irina , Virnich Julie , Balkaya Selin , Prato Vincenzo , Morelli Chiara , Begay Valerie , Lee Young Jae , Tappe-Theodor Anke , Lewin Gary R. , Heppenstall Paul A. , Taberner Francisco J. , Lechner Stefan G.
Published: April 2023

Mechanically silent nociceptors are sensory afferents that are insensitive to noxious mechanical stimuli under normal conditions but become sensitized to such stimuli during inflammation. Using RNA-sequencing and quantitative RT-PCR we demonstrate that inflammation upregulates the expression of the transmembrane protein TMEM100 in silent nociceptors and electrophysiology revealed that over-expression of TMEM100 is required and sufficient to un-silence silent nociceptors in mice. Moreover, we show that mice lacking TMEM100 do not develop secondary mechanical hypersensitivity—i.e., pain hypersensitivity that spreads beyond the site of inflammation—during knee joint inflammation and that AAV-mediated overexpression of TMEM100 in articular afferents in the absence of inflammation is sufficient to induce mechanical hypersensitivity in remote skin regions without causing knee joint pain. Thus, our work identifies TMEM100 as a key regulator of silent nociceptor un-silencing and reveals a physiological role for this hitherto enigmatic afferent subclass in triggering spatially remote secondary mechanical hypersensitivity during inflammation.
ATP synthase interactome analysis identifies a new subunit l as a modulator of permeability transition pore in yeast
Authors: Panja Chiranjit , Wiesyk Aneta , Niedźwiecka Katarzyna , Baranowska Emilia , Kucharczyk Roza
Published: April 2023

The mitochondrial ATP synthase, an enzyme that synthesizes ATP and is involved in the formation of the mitochondrial mega-channel and permeability transition, is a multi-subunit complex. In S. cerevisiae, the uncharacterized protein Mco10 was previously found to be associated with ATP synthase and referred as a new ‘subunit l’. However, recent cryo-EM structures could not ascertain Mco10 with the enzyme making questionable its role as a structural subunit. The N-terminal part of Mco10 is very similar to k/Atp19 subunit, which along with subunits g/Atp20 and e/Atp21 plays a major role in stabilization of the ATP synthase dimers. In our effort to confidently define the small protein interactome of ATP synthase we found Mco10. We herein investigate the impact of Mco10 on ATP synthase functioning. Biochemical analysis reveal in spite of similarity in sequence and evolutionary lineage, that Mco10 and Atp19 differ significantly in function. The Mco10 is an auxiliary ATP synthase subunit that only functions in permeability transition.
The role of early attachment experiences in modulating defensive peripersonal space
Authors: Fossataro Carlotta , Adenzato Mauro , Bruno Margherita , Fontana Elena , Garbarini Francesca , Ardito Rita B.
Published: April 2023

Selecting appropriate defensive behaviours for threats approaching the space surrounding the body (peripersonal space, PPS) is crucial for survival. The extent of defensive PPS is measured by recording the hand-blink reflex (HBR), a subcortical defensive response. Higher-order cortical areas involved in PPS representation exert top-down modulation on brainstem circuits subserving HBR. However, it is not yet known whether pre-existing models of social relationships (internal working models, IWM) originating from early attachment experiences influence defensive responses. We hypothesized that organized IWM ensure adequate top-down regulation of brainstem activity mediating HBR, whereas disorganized IWM are associated with altered response patterns. To investigate attachment-dependent modulation on defensive responses, we used the Adult Attachment Interview to determine IWM and recorded HBR in two sessions (with or without the neurobehavioral attachment system activated). As expected, the HBR magnitude in individuals with organized IWM was modulated by the threat proximity to the face, regardless of the session. In contrast, for individuals with disorganized IWM, attachment system activation enhances HBR regardless of the threat position, suggesting that triggering emotional attachment experiences magnifies the threatening valence of external stimuli. Our results indicate that the attachment system exerts a strong modulation on defensive responses and the magnitude of PPS.
Enhanced axonal regeneration of ALS patient iPSC-derived motor neurons harboring SOD1A4V mutation
Authors: Marshall Katherine L. , Rajbhandari Labchan , Venkatesan Arun , Maragakis Nicholas J. , Farah Mohamed H.
Published: April 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease, characterized by degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons that leads to muscle weakness, paralysis, and death, but the effects of disease-causing mutations on axonal outgrowth of neurons derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived motor neurons (hiPSC-MN) are poorly understood. The use of hiPSC-MN is a promising tool to develop more relevant models for target identification and drug development in ALS research, but questions remain concerning the effects of distinct disease-causing mutations on axon regeneration. Mutations in superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) were the first to be discovered in ALS patients. Here, we investigated the effect of the SOD1A4V mutation on axonal regeneration of hiPSC-MNs, utilizing compartmentalized microfluidic devices, which are powerful tools for studying hiPSC-MN distal axons. Surprisingly, SOD1+/A4V hiPSC-MNs regenerated axons more quickly following axotomy than those expressing the native form of SOD1. Though initial axon regrowth was not significantly different following axotomy, enhanced regeneration was apparent at later time points, indicating an increased rate of outgrowth. This regeneration model could be used to identify factors that enhance the rate of human axon regeneration.
Characterization of the pathogenicity of extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli isolates from pneumonia-infected lung samples of dogs and cats in South Korea
Authors: Yun Chi Sun , Moon Bo-Youn , Hwang Mi-Hye , Lee Soo-Kyoung , Ku Bok-Kyung , Lee Kichan
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to investigate the pathogenicity of extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) isolated from dog and cat lung samples in South Korea. A total of 101 E. coli isolates were analyzed for virulence factors, phylogroups, and O-serogroups, and their correlation with bacterial pneumonia-induced mortality was elucidated. P fimbriae structural subunit (papA), hemolysin D (hlyD), and cytotoxic necrotizing factor 1 (cnf1) were highly prevalent in both species, indicating correlation with bacterial pneumonia. Phylogroups B1 and B2 were the most prevalent phylogroups (36.6% and 32.7%, respectively) and associated with high bacterial pneumonia-induced mortality rates. Isolates from both species belonging to phylogroup B2 showed high frequency of papA, hlyD, and cnf1. O-serogrouping revealed 21 and 15 serogroups in dogs and cats, respectively. In dogs, O88 was the most prevalent serogroup (n = 8), and the frequency of virulence factors was high for O4 and O6. In cats, O4 was the most prevalent serogroup (n = 6), and the frequency of virulence factors was high for O4 and O6. O4 and O6 serogroups were mainly grouped under phylogroup B2 and associated with high bacterial pneumonia-induced mortality. This study characterized the pathogenicity of ExPEC and described the probability of ExPEC pneumonia-induced mortality.
The functional change of the P2X7R containing the Ala348 to Thr polymorphism is associated with the pathogenesis of gout
Authors: Li Man-Yun , Fang Xuan , Ma Yan , Pan Xian-Yang , Dai Xiao-Juan , Li Xiao-Mei , Li Xiao-Ling , Wang Yi-Ping , Tao Jin-Hui , Li Xiang-Pei
Published: April 2023

Our previous study has shown that ATP action on P2X7R could be the second signal to induce the onset of gouty arthritis. However, the functional changes of P2X7R single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the effects of ATP-P2X7R-IL-1β signaling pathway and uric acid remained unknown. We aimed to investigate the association between the functional change of P2X7R containing the Ala348 to Thr polymorphisms (rs1718119) and the pathogenesis of gout. First, 270 gout patients and 70 hyperuricemic patients (without gout attack history in recent 5 years) were recruited for genotyping. In addition, the changes of ATP-induced pore formation were assessed in HEK-293T cells overexpressing different mutants in P2RX7, and the effects on P2X7R-NLRP3-IL-1β pathway activation were explored in P2RX7 overexpression THP-1 cells. The risk allele for gout was A at rs1718119, and the AA and AG genotypes exhibited a higher risk of gout. Furthermore, Ala348 to Thr mutants increased P2X7-dependent ethidium+ bromide uptake, upregulated IL-1β and NLRP3 levels as compared to the wild-type. We suggest that genetic polymorphisms of P2X7R containing the Ala348 to Thr are associated with the increased risk of gout, showing an enhanced gain-of-function effect on the development of this disease.
Personality traits and decision-making styles among obstetricians and gynecologists managing childbirth emergencies
Authors: Raoust Gabriel , Kajonius Petri , Hansson Stefan
Published: April 2023

The successful management of a childbirth emergency will be dependent on the decision-making of involved obstetricians and gynecologists. Individual differences in decision-making may be explained through personality traits. The objectives of the present study were (I) to describe personality trait levels of obstetricians and gynecologists and (II) to examine the relationship between obstetricians’ and gynecologists’ personality traits and decision-making styles (Individual, Team and Flow) in childbirth emergencies; also controlling for cognitive ability (ICAR-3), age, sex and years of clinical experience. Obstetricians and gynecologists, members of the Swedish Society for Obstetrics and Gynecology (N = 472) responded to an online questionnaire that included a simplified version of the Five Factor Model of personality (IPIP-NEO), and 15 questions concerning childbirth emergencies based on a model of decision-making styles (Individual, Team and Flow). The data was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation analysis and multiple linear regression. Swedish obstetricians and gynecologists scored (P < 0.001) lower on Neuroticism (Cohen’s d = − 1.09) and higher on Extraversion (d = 0.79), Agreeableness (d = 1.04) and Conscientiousness (d = 0.97) compared to the general population. The most important trait was Neuroticism, which correlated with the decision-making styles Individual (r = − 0.28) and Team (r = 0.15), while for example Openness only trivially correlated with Flow. Multiple linear regression showed that personality traits with covariates explained up to 18% of decision-making styles. Obstetricians and gynecologists have notably more distinct personality levels than the general population, and their personality traits relate to decision-making in childbirth emergencies. The assessment of medical errors in childbirth emergencies and prevention through individualized training should take account of these findings.
Kinetic trapping of 2,4,6-tris(4-pyridyl)benzene and ZnI2 into M12L8 poly-[n]-catenanes using solution and solid-state processes
Authors: Martí-Rujas Javier , Elli Stefano , Famulari Antonino
Published: April 2023

Here, we show that in a supramolecular system with more than 20 building blocks forming large icosahedral M12L8 metal–organic cages (MOCs), using the instant synthesis method, it is possible to kinetically trap and control the formation of interlocking M12L8 nanocages, giving rare M12L8 TPB-ZnI2 poly-[n]-catenane. The catenanes are obtained in a one-pot reaction, selectively as amorphous (a1) or crystalline states, as demonstrated by powder X-ray diffraction (powder XRD), thermogravimetric (TG) analysis and 1H NMR. The 300 K M12L8 poly-[n]-catenane single crystal X-ray diffraction (SC-XRD) structure including nitrobenzene (1) indicates strong guest binding with the large M12L8 cage (i.e., internal volume ca. 2600 Å3), allowing its structural resolution. Conversely, slow self-assembly (5 days) leads to a mixture of the M12L8 poly-[n]-catenane and a new TPB-ZnI2 (2) coordination polymer (i.e., thermodynamic product), as revealed by SC-XRD. The neat grinding solid-state synthesis also yields amorphous M12L8 poly-[n]-catenane (a1′), but not coordination polymers, selectively in 15 min. The dynamic behavior of the M12L8 poly-[n]-catenanes demonstrated by the amorphous-to-crystalline transformation upon the uptake of ortho-, meta- and para-xylenes shows the potential of M12L8 poly-[n]-catenanes as functional materials in molecular separation. Finally, combining SC-XRD of 1 and DFT calculations specific for the solid-state, the role of the guests in the stability of the 1D chains of M12L8 nanocages is reported. Energy interactions such as interaction energies (E), lattice energies (E*), host–guest energies (Ehost-guest) and guest-guest energies (Eguest-guest) were analysed considering the X-ray structure with and without the nitrobenzene guest. Not only the synthetic control achieved in the synthesis of the M12L8 MOCs but also their dynamic behavior either in the crystalline or amorphous phase are sufficient to raise scientific interest in areas ranging from fundamental to applied sides of chemistry and material sciences.
Post-reperfusion acute MR diffusion in stroke is a potential predictor for clinical outcome in rats
Authors: Nagy Szilvia Anett , Ivic Ivan , Tóth Péter , Komoly Sámuel , Kiss Tamás , Pénzes Máté , Málnási-Csizmadia András , Dóczi Tamás , Perlaki Gábor , Orsi Gergely
Published: April 2023

Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models show substantial variability in outcome, introducing uncertainties in the evaluation of treatment effects. Early outcome predictors would be essential for prognostic purposes and variability control. We aimed to compare apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) MRI data obtained during MCAO and shortly after reperfusion for their potentials in acute-phase outcome prediction. Fifty-nine male rats underwent a 45-min MCAO. Outcome was defined in three ways: 21-day survival; 24 h midline-shift and neurological scores. Animals were divided into two groups: rats surviving 21 days after MCAO (survival group, n = 46) and rats dying prematurely (non-survival/NS group, n = 13). At reperfusion, NS group showed considerably larger lesion volume and lower mean ADC of the initial lesion site (p < 0.0001), while during occlusion there were no significant group differences. At reperfusion, each survival animal showed decreased lesion volume and increased mean ADC of the initial lesion site compared to those during occlusion (p < 10–6), while NS group showed a mixed pattern. At reperfusion, lesion volume and mean ADC of the initial lesion site were significantly associated with 24 h midline-shift and neurological scores. Diffusion MRI performed soon after reperfusion has a great impact in early-phase outcome prediction, and it works better than the measurement during occlusion.
Aldose reductase inhibition decelerates optic nerve degeneration by alleviating retinal microglia activation
Authors: Rao Mishal , Huang Yu-Kai , Liu Chia-Chun , Meadows Chandler , Cheng Hui-Chun , Zhou Mengli , Chen Yu-Chih , Xia Xin , Goldberg Jeffrey L. , Williams Andrew M. , Kuwajima Takaaki , Chang Kun-Che
Published: April 2023

As part of the central nervous system (CNS), retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons are the only neurons in the retina that transmit visual signals from the eye to the brain via the optic nerve (ON). Unfortunately, they do not regenerate upon injury in mammals. In ON trauma, retinal microglia (RMG) become activated, inducing inflammatory responses and resulting in axon degeneration and RGC loss. Since aldose reductase (AR) is an inflammatory response mediator highly expressed in RMG, we investigated if pharmacological inhibition of AR can attenuate ocular inflammation and thereby promote RGC survival and axon regeneration after ON crush (ONC). In vitro, we discovered that Sorbinil, an AR inhibitor, attenuates BV2 microglia activation and migration in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) treatments. In vivo, Sorbinil suppressed ONC-induced Iba1 + microglia/macrophage infiltration in the retina and ON and promoted RGC survival. Moreover, Sorbinil restored RGC function and delayed axon degeneration one week after ONC. RNA sequencing data revealed that Sorbinil protects the retina from ONC-induced degeneration by suppressing inflammatory signaling. In summary, we report the first study demonstrating that AR inhibition transiently protects RGC and axon from degeneration, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for optic neuropathies.
Constraints on upper crustal fluid circulation and seismogenesis from in-situ outcrop quantification of complex fault zone permeability
Authors: Curzi M. , Giuntoli F. , Vignaroli G. , Viola G.
Published: April 2023

The permeability of fault zones plays a significant role on the distribution of georesources and on seismogenesis in the brittle upper crust, where both natural and induced seismicity are often associated with fluid migration and overpressure. Detailed models of the permeability structure of fault zones are thus necessary to refine our understanding of natural fluid pathways and of the mechanisms leading to fluid compartmentalization and possible overpressure in the crust. Fault zones commonly contain complex internal architectures defined by the spatial juxtaposition of “brittle structural facies” (BSF), which progressively and continuously form and evolve during faulting and deformation. We present the first systematic in-situ outcrop permeability measurements from a range of BSFs from two architecturally complex fault zones in the Northern Apennines (Italy). A stark spatial heterogeneity of the present-day permeability (up to four orders of magnitude) even for tightly juxtaposed BSFs belonging to the same fault emerges as a key structural and hydraulic feature. Insights from this study allow us to better understand how complex fault architectures steer the 3D hydraulic structure of the brittle upper crust. Fault hydraulic properties, which may change through space but also in time during an orogenesis and/or individual seismic cycles, in turn steer the development of overpressured volumes, where fluid-induced seismogenesis may localize.
Insights into the physical and chemical properties of struvite crystal surfaces in terms of the effectiveness of bacterial adhesion
Authors: Prywer Jolanta , Torzewska Agnieszka , Cichomski Michał , Michałowski Paweł Piotr
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we present the results of research on the physicochemical properties of two selected faces of the struvite crystal, which is the main component of infectious urinary stones. Two main faces, (001) and ($$00\overline{1}$$

00

1
¯

), ending the c-axis, were selected for the study. These faces are not related by symmetry relations, which means, among other things, that they should have a different atomic structure, which was confirmed experimentally. In addition, the studies show that the tested surfaces have hydrophilic properties, however, the ($$00\overline{1}$$

00

1
¯

) face is more hydrophilic compared to the (001) face. The physicochemical properties of the crystal as a whole, as well as the physicochemical properties of these faces influence the magnitude of adhesion. The adhesive force in both water and artificial urine is greater for face ($$00\overline{1}$$

00

1
¯

) compared to face (001). The assessment of the adhesion of Proteus mirabilis bacteria in artificial urine also shows that the adhesion is greater for face ($$00\overline{1}$$

00

1
¯

) than for face (001). The adhesion of bacteria to the examined faces of the struvite crystal, and in particular the increased adhesion of bacteria to the face ($$00\overline{1}$$

00

1
¯

), may be the first stage of biofilm formation, which may result in a high rate of recurrence of infectious urinary stones after treatment.
Secondary oxidized di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate metabolites may be associated with progression from isolated premature thelarche to central precocious or early puberty
Authors: Zheng Xiuxin , Su Huiping , Huang Shurong , Su Wei , Zheng Rongfei , Shang Yue , Su Qiru , Zhou Li , Yao Yao , Su Zhe
Published: April 2023

Phthalate esters (PAEs) may act as estrogen receptor agonists, and their relationship with precocious puberty is a global health concern. However, their role in isolated premature thelarche (IPT) progression remains unclear. We conducted a cohort study investigating the relationship between IPT progression and urinary PAE metabolites. Girls with IPT aged 6–8 years were regularly followed up every three months for one year. Clinical data and urine PAE metabolite levels were collected. Participants who progressed to central precocious puberty (CPP) or early puberty (EP) had significantly higher ovarian volume, breast Tanner stage, and levels of the creatinine-adjusted urinary secondary oxidized di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) metabolites (Σ4DEHP). Breast Tanner stage (odds ratio [OR] = 7.041, p = 0.010), ovarian volume (OR = 3.603, p = 0.019), and Σ4DEHP (OR = 1.020, p = 0.005) were independent risk factors for IPT progression. For each 10 µg/g/Cr increase in the urine level of Σ4DEHP, the risk of progression from IPT to CPP/EP within one year increased by 20%. This study demonstrated that the breast Tanner stage, ovarian volume, and Σ4DEHP in urine were independent risk factors for IPT progression, and Σ4DEHP may be associated with the progression of IPT to CPP or EP.
The intra- and inter-day repeatability of corneal densitometry measurements in subjects with keratoconus and in healthy controls
Authors: Gustafsson Ingemar , Bizios Dimitrios , Ivarsen Anders , Hjortdal Jesper Ø.
Published: April 2023

The healthy cornea is transparent, however, disease can affect its structure, rendering it more or less opaque. The ability to assess the clarity of the cornea objectively could thus be of considerable interest for keratoconus patients. It has previously been suggested that densitometry can be used to diagnose early keratoconus, and that the values of densitometry variables increase with increasing disease severity, indicating that densitometry could also be used to assess progressive keratoconus. Previous studies have only assessed the repeatability of corneal densitometry measurements on the same day, which does not reflect the clinical setting in which changes are evaluated over time. We have therefore evaluated the inter-day repeatability of densitometry measurements in both patients with keratoconus and healthy controls. Measurements in the middle layer of the 2–6 mm zone of the cornea showed the best repeatability. Although an objective measure of the corneal transparency could be interesting, the generally poor repeatability of densitometry measurements limits their use. The repeatability of corneal clarity measurements could be improved by using other approaches such as optical coherence tomography, but this remains to be investigated. Such improvements would allow the more widespread use of corneal densitometry in clinical practice.
A novel physiological function of pheromone biosynthesis-activating neuropeptide in production of aggregation pheromone
Authors: Khan Falguni , Kim Keono , Sung Jeehye , Lim Hangah , Kim Sang-Gyu , Choi Man-Yeon , Kim Yonggyun
Published: April 2023

The western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, is an insect pest, and its aggregation pheromone (AP) plays a crucial role in the recruitment of both sexes. A novel pheromone biosynthesis-activating neuropeptide (PBAN)-like gene is encoded in F. occidentalis genome, but its physiological function has yet to be elucidated. This study hypothesized the physiological role played by PBAN in mediating AP production. AP has been known to be produced only by male adults in F. occidentalis. Surprisingly, our extraction of headspace volatiles contained two AP components in females as well as in males with similar composition. PBAN injection elevated the AP production whereas RNA interference (RNAi) of the gene expression suppressed the AP production in both sexes. A biosynthetic pathway to produce AP components were predicted and the enzymes catalyzing the main steps were confirmed in their expressions. Individual RNAi treatments of these genes significantly suppressed AP production. RNAi of PBAN gene downregulated the expressions of these biosynthesis-associated genes in both sexes. These results suggest that the novel neuropeptide acts as PBAN mediating AP production through stimulating its biosynthetic machinery in F. occidentalis.
Microplastic-contaminated antibiotics as an emerging threat to mammalian liver: enhanced oxidative and inflammatory damages
Authors: Fu Jianxin , Zhang Lan , Xiang Keyu , Zhang Yu , Wang Guoqing , Chen Lingxin
Published: April 2023

The accumulation of antibiotic contaminants harbored on microplastic materials may cause enhanced mammalian liver injury, raising concerns about the potential risks of microplastics to human health.
Sunlight harvesting for heat generation inside water using biosynthesized magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Barzinjy Azeez Abdullah , Hamad Samir Mustafa , Faris Vinos Mushir , Abdulrahman Ahmed Fattah , Khan Mohammad Mansoob , Ahmad Amir Abdulrahman
Published: April 2023

Heat generation from the biosynthesized Fe3O4 NPs using Salix babylonica L. aqueous leaf extract in water under sunlight.
Systematic altering of semiflexible DNA-based polymer networks via tunable crosslinking
Authors: Glaser Martin , Mollenkopf Paul , Prascevic Dusan , Ferraz Catarina , Käs Josef A. , Schnauß Jörg , Smith David M
Published: April 2023

We introduce a new DNA-based approach to systematically investigate the bulk properties of crosslinked semiflexible DNA-based polymer networks as a model for natural biopolymer networks, by stepwise altering the binding affinity of the crosslinkers.
Charge transport transition of PEDOT:PSS thin films for temperature-insensitive wearable strain sensors
Authors: Choi Young Kyun , Kim Tae Hyuk , Song Jeong Han , Jung Byung Ku , Kim Woosik , Bae Jung Ho , Choi Hyung Jin , Kwak Jeonghun , Shim Jae Won , Oh Soong Ju
Published: April 2023

In this study, a temperature-insensitive strain sensor that detects only the strain without responding to the temperature was designed.
Recent progress in energy, environment, and electronic applications of MXene nanomaterials
Authors: Ustad Ruhan E. , Kundale Somnath S. , Rokade Kasturi A. , Patil Snehal L. , Chavan Vijay D. , Kadam Kalyani D. , Patil Harshada S. , Patil Sarita P. , Kamat Rajanish K. , Kim Deok-kee , Dongale Tukaram D.
Published: April 2023

This article reviews the multidisciplinary aspects of MXene, including its structures, synthesis methods, and electronic, mechanical, optoelectronic, and magnetic properties.
Two-dimensional ferromagnetic semiconductors of rare-earth Janus 2H-GdIBr monolayers with large valley polarization
Authors: Li Cunquan , An Yukai
Published: April 2023

A Janus 2H-GdIBr monolayer exhibits an intrinsic bipolar ferromagnetic semiconductor character with an indirect band gap of 0.75 eV, a high Curie temperature of 260 K, in-plane magnetic anisotropy and a large valley polarization of 118 meV.
Visible-light-induced cyclization of 2-alkenyl-1,1′-biphenyls
Authors: Yan Kang , Yang Xingyu , Gao Jiangang , Zhang Ze , Li Pinhua
Published: April 2023

An efficient protocol to access phenanthrene-9,9(10H)-dicarbonitrile derivatives through visible-light-induced cyclization of 2-malononitrilemethylene-substituted 1,1′-biphenyls under metal-free conditions was developed.
LWJ-M30, a conjugate of DM1 and B6, for the targeted therapy of colorectal cancer with improved therapeutic effects
Authors: Zhang Qiu-Yan , Yu Qing-Long , Luan Wei-Jing , Li Tong-Fang , Xiao Ya-Ni , Zhang Li , Li Yi , Rong Rong , Ren Chun-Guang
Published: April 2023

LWJ-M30 targeted TfR, dramatically decreased the level of polymeric tubulin, while the disruption of microtubules meant the cell cycle was arrested in the G2/M phase and thus caused cells apoptosis.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis CitA activity is modulated by cysteine oxidation and pyruvate binding
Authors: Pathirage Rasangi , Favrot Lorenza , Petit Cecile , Yamsek Melvin , Singh Sarbjit , Mallareddy Jayapal Reddy , Rana Sandeep , Natarajan Amarnath , Ronning Donald R.
Published: April 2023

The M. tuberculosis citrate synthase regulatory domain binds pyruvate to affect enzyme activity while cysteine oxidation in the same domain eliminates enzyme activity. This affords regulatory control at the protein level of entry to the TCA cycle.
All-inorganic perovskite solar cells featuring mixed group IVA cations
Authors: Li Yufeng , Yang Changyu , Guo Weisi , Duan Tianwei , Zhou Zhongmin , Zhou Yuanyuan
Published: April 2023

The fundamental structures and solar-cell performance of all-inorganic ABX3 perovskites that contain mixed group IVA cations at the B sites are examined comprehensively, pointing to an interesting direction in exploring perovskites with reduced Pb inclusion.
Inflammation-targeting polyamine nanomedicines for the treatment of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Nishiguchi Akihiro , Taguchi Tetsushi
Published: April 2023

Orally administered anti-inflammatory polyamine-based nanomedicines are presented. Inflammation-targeting, radical scavenging, and biocompatible nanomedicines may serve as therapeutic drugs for inflammatory diseases.
Interpreting Diné Epistemologies and Decolonization to Improve Language and Literacy Instruction for Diné Children
Authors: Allison-Burbank Joshuaa D. , Conn Annahbah , Vandever Daniel
Published: April 2023

Purpose:

Culturally responsive teaching (CRT) is a recurring topic in preservice teacher and special education personnel training, especially as academic institutions work to implement anti-racist and anti-oppressive teaching pedagogies. These methods of instruction, specifically in the areas of language and literacy, can be implemented by programs that understand the needs of the Indigenous students that their trainees or students will eventually serve. Academic institutions must transform their teaching and mentoring approach to better prepare educators and clinicians who engage with Indigenous communities.

Method:

This tutorial includes a critical review and will focus on the Diné traditional perspectives of
Sa'ah Naagháí Bik'eh Hózhóón
(SNBH), as it applies to the educational experiences of Diné students. The principle, which represents the process of lifelong learning and reflection, will be used as a model for how Indigenous epistemologies can be used within a decolonized educational philosophy, Red Pedagogy, to improve language and literacy instruction for young Indigenous children.

Results:

American Indian (AIs; Indigenous) students start school with unique heritages and diverse learning experiences that influence their learning styles. Often, the formal Western education experience beginning in early childhood and elementary program provides a cultural shock to young AI students, whose learning experiences are centered on oral storytelling, experiential and collective learning, and land-based experiences. As methods of CRT evolve and more AI professionals lead educational research, the Indigenization of teaching pedagogies is amplified. More importantly, the prioritization of Indigenous knowledge systems, including methods of teaching, is being centered as strategies toward decolonization of learning spaces.

Discussion:

The SNBH principle, which represents the process of lifelong learning and reflection, is a model for how Indigenous epistemologies can be used within a decolonized educational philosophy, Red Pedagogy, to improve language and literacy instruction for young Indigenous children.
Sentiment analysis and research based on two‐channel parallel hybrid neural network model with attention mechanism
Authors: Chen Na , Sun Yanqiu , Yan Yan
Published: April 2023

Concerning the problems that the traditional Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) ignores contextual semantic information, and the traditional Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) has information memory loss and vanishing gradient, this paper proposes a Bi‐directional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT)‐based dual‐channel parallel hybrid neural network model for text sentiment analysis. The BERT model is used to convert text into word vectors; the dual‐channel parallel hybrid neural network model constructed by CNN and Bi‐directional Long Short‐Term Memory (BiLSTM) extracts local and global semantic features of the text, which can obtain more comprehensive sentiment features; the attention mechanism enables some words to get more attention that highlights important words and improves the model's sentiment classification ability. Finally, the dual‐channel output features are fused for sentiment classification. The experimental results on the hotel review datasets show that the Accuracy of the proposed model in sentiment classification reaches 92.35% and the F1 score reaches 91.59%.
Cooperative predictive control for arbitrarily mixed vehicle platoons with guaranteed global optimality
Authors: Zhan Jingyuan , Hua Zhen , Zhang Liguo
Published: April 2023

This paper studies the cooperative control problem of a mixed vehicle platoon, which is composed of connected autonomous vehicles (CAVs) and human‐driven vehicles (HDVs) in an arbitrary order. An alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) based distributed model predictive control (DMPC) algorithm is proposed for CAVs to lead the mixed vehicle platoon travelling in a string with anticipated inter‐vehicle spacing and a desired velocity. First, the mixed vehicle platoon is divided into multiple interrelated sub‐platoons with any two adjacent sub‐platoons having a common CAV, and then a generic model is constructed for each sub‐platoon based on the intelligent driver model for HDV and the kinematic model for CAV, respectively. Second, a local MPC controller is designed for each sub‐platoon to optimize the control inputs of CAVs with the objective of minimizing the position and velocity errors of all vehicles in the sub‐platoon, and then the ADMM is utilized to obtain the global optimal solution among local MPC controllers of all sub‐platoons. Finally, numerical simulations and experiments are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed DMPC algorithm, the results of which reveal that it can reduce the computation cost significantly and ensure the control performance comparable to the centralized MPC algorithm.
Scattering of electromagnetic waves induced by an shallow triangular cavity
Authors: Bozorgi Mehdi
Published: April 2023

In this article, a solution for electromagnetic scattering by a shallow triangular cavity is suggested using the modal expansion technique. First, a domain decomposition approach is employed to divide the half‐space above the cavity into two sub‐regions. The tangential fields within the sub‐regions are expanded in terms of an infinite series of appropriate basis functions in two different coordinate systems. The fields are then expressed in a similar coordinate system by utilising the Graf's addition theorem. Eventually, the unknown coefficients are computed through satisfying the continuity of the tangential fields at an auxiliary boundary. Some examples are given to demonstrate the validity and reliability of the proposed method.
Small and Smart: Adventures in Epihalohydrin Chemistry
Authors: Langer Peter
Published: April 2023

The present personalized account aims to highlight reactions of epichlorohydrin and epibromohydrin with free and masked dianions. These reactions permit convenient syntheses of a variety of products, such as 2-(alkylidene)tetrahydrofurans (which can be further functionalized by hydrogenation or ring-transformation reactions), cyclopropanes, γ-butyrolactams, oxazines, oxazolo[3,4-b]pyridazin-7-ones, or 2-(alkylidene)thiazolidines. In general, the reactions proceed with very good regioselectivity.

1 Introduction

2 Reactions of Masked Dianions

2.1 Synthesis of 2-(Alkylidene)tetrahydrofurans

2.2 Functionalization of 2-(Alkylidene)tetrahydrofurans

3 Reactions of Free Dianions

3.1 Synthesis of 2-(Alkylidene)tetrahydrofurans

3.2 Functionalization of 2-(Alkylidene)tetrahydrofurans

3.3 Synthesis of γ-Butyrolactams

3.4 Synthesis of 5,6-Dihydro-4H-1,2-oxazines

3.5 Synthesis of Oxazolo[3,4-b]pyridazin-7-ones

3.6 Synthesis of Cyclopropanes

3.7 Synthesis of 2-(Alkylidene)thiazolidines

4 Conclusions
Clinical Outcomes of Trapeziometacarpal Arthrodesis with a Mean 3-Year Follow-up
Authors: Tovar-Bazaga Miguel , Martínez-Ulloa Aarón , Luengo-Alonso Gonzalo , Maestro-Carvajal Rubén , Cervera-Irimia Javier
Published: April 2023

Background This paper's purpose was to analyze clinical results obtained with trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis and complications comparing different osteosynthesis systems.

Methods Thirty-seven trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis were performed in our center in a 7-year period, with a mean age of 52 years and 34 months of follow-up. The implants were distributed homogenously into three groups, using bone grafts in 12.5% of them.

Results A 75% achieved complete consolidation with a mean postsurgical Visual Analog Scale (VAS) of 2.4, Kapandji Opposition Score (KOS) of 8.1, lateral pinch strength of 12.1 kg, tripod pinch strength of 3.6 kg, and tip-to-tip strength of 1.5 kg. Consolidation was not achieved in nine patients, of which five were asymptomatic, three reoperated on trapeziectomy and tenosuspension, and one rearthrodesis. No statistical association was found between the implant used and pseudoarthrosis (p = 0.17), VAS (p = 0.06), or KOS (p = 0.45).

Conclusions Trapeziometacarpal arthrodesis reduces pain for well-chosen patients. Nonunion has low clinical significance in most cases and does not seem to depend on the use of allograft or the type of implant but on an appropriate surgical technique.
Dimensional Optimization of Graphene-Modified Polymethyl Methacrylate Material Used as an Aesthetic Removable Partial Denture Clasp Material
Authors: Hussein Mostafa Omran
Published: April 2023

Objective Although graphene-modified polymethyl methacrylate material is a good candidate for partial denture clasp material, it lacks adequate strength. Therefore, the study aims to assess the optimal dimension of this nanomodified material required for such an application.

Materials and Methods A parametric finite element analysis study was conducted on 54 clasp 3D models at two displacement levels (0.25–0.5 mm) placed 3 mm from the clasp tip. The clasp models were categorized based on the dimensions into A, B, and C (3 subgroups in each) and six tapers from the tip to the base (0.5–1). Both reaction force in (N) and maximum principal stress in (MPa) were recorded and analyzed. The study was validated using the mechanical tester after digital manufacturing of the clasp specimens that showed satisfactory results.

Statistical Analysis The correlations between width and thickness against reaction force and maximum principal stress were checked by a statistical analysis software package (SPSS version 22; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Data of the reaction force demonstrated nonparametric behavior, as tested by the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Accordingly, Spearman's rho test for correlation was used. In contrast, the maximum principal stress data showed normal distribution, as tested by the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Thus, Pearson's test of correlation was applied.

Results The results demonstrated the best retention force values, considering aesthetics, in subgroups C3 (taper 0.6), C3 (taper 0.8), and B3 (taper 1). The maximum principal stress results showed the highest values in group C followed by group B and then group A. Positive correlations were calculated between thickness and width versus reaction force and maximum principal stress. The correlation coefficient value between thickness and reaction force was 0.699 and that between width and reaction force was 0.621, while the correlation coefficient between thickness and maximum principal force was 0.899 and that between the width and maximum principal force was 0.740.

Conclusion It could be concluded that the studied material might be recommended as a valid aesthetic clasp material. Both clasp thickness and width showed a positive correlation with the clasp retention force with more impact by the thickness.