bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Roles for the Stem Cell–Associated Intermediate Filament Nestin in Prostate Cancer Migration and Metastasis
Authors: Kleeberger Wolfram , Bova G. Steven , Nielsen Matthew E. , Herawi Mehsati , Chuang Ai-Ying , Epstein Jonathan I. , Berman David M.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
The intermediate filament protein Nestin identifies stem/progenitor cells in adult tissues, but the function of Nestin is poorly understood. We investigated Nestin expression and function in common lethal cancers. Nestin mRNA was detected in cell lines from small cell lung, and breast cancers, and particularly elevated in cell lines derived from prostate cancer metastases. Whereas the androgen-independent lines PC3, 22RV1, and DU145 all expressed Nestin transcripts under standard culture conditions, the androgen-dependent line LnCaP expressed Nestin only on androgen withdrawal. We confirmed associations of Nestin expression, androgen withdrawal, and metastatic potential by immunohistochemical analysis of samples from 254 prostate cancer patients. Cytoplasmic Nestin protein was readily identifiable in prostate cancer cells from 75% of patients with lethal androgen-independent disease, even in cancer sampled from the prostate itself. However, Nestin expression was undetectable in localized androgen-deprived tumors and in metastases without prior androgen deprivation. To address its function, we reduced Nestin levels with short hairpin RNAs, markedly inhibiting in vitro migration and invasion in prostate cancer cells but leaving cell growth intact. Nestin knockdown also diminished metastases 5-fold compared with controls despite uncompromised tumorigenicity at the site of inoculation. These results specify a function for Nestin in cell motility and identify a novel pathway for prostate cancer metastasis. Activity of this pathway may be selected by the extraprostatic environment or, as supported by our data, may originate within the prostate after androgen deprivation. Further dissection of this novel Nestin migration pathway may lead to strategies to prevent and neutralize metastatic spread. [Cancer Res 2007;67(19):9199–206]
Data from EBV MicroRNAs in Primary Lymphomas and Targeting of CXCL-11 by ebv-mir-BHRF1-3
Authors: Xia Tianli , O'Hara Andrea , Araujo Iguaracyra , Barreto Jose , Carvalho Eny , Sapucaia Jose Bahia , Ramos Juan Carlos , Luz Estela , Pedroso Celia , Manrique Michele , Toomey Ngoc L. , Brites Carlos , Dittmer Dirk P. , Harrington William J.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
EBV-encoded microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified and their functions are being studied. The expression pattern of these miRNAs in clinical samples of EBV-associated non–Hodgkin's lymphomas is unknown. We analyzed five primary “endemic” pediatric Burkitt's lymphomas (BL), two acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related type I latency BL lines, a type III latency line, three EBV+ primary effusion lymphomas (PEL), and three AIDS-related diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) for expression of EBV-encoded miRNAs. A markedly elevated expression of miRNA BHRF1-3 in type III relative to its parental type I BL line was found. Primary unmanipulated type I BLs and EBV+ PELs expressed high levels of BART2 miRNA, whereas DLBCLs expressed both BART2 and BHRF1-3 species. BHRF1-3 miRNA expression inversely correlated with levels of a putative cellular target, the IFN-inducible T-cell attracting chemokine CXCL-11/I-TAC, and suppression of this factor was reversed by transfection of an antisense oligo to the EBV miRNA BHRF1-3. EBV-encoded miRNAs are expressed in primary lymphomas classically linked to the virus and are associated with the viral latency status. Targeted suppression of CXCL-11/I-TAC by a viral-encoded miRNA may serve as an immunomodulatory mechanism in these tumors. [Cancer Res 2008;68(5):1436–42]
Data from Diagnostic and Prognostic MicroRNAs in Stage II Colon Cancer
Authors: Schepeler Troels , Reinert Jørgen T. , Ostenfeld Marie S. , Christensen Lise L. , Silahtaroglu Asli N. , Dyrskjøt Lars , Wiuf Carsten , Sørensen Frank J. , Kruhøffer Mogens , Laurberg Søren , Kauppinen Sakari , Ørntoft Torben F. , Andersen Claus L.
Published: March 2023

Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are a class of small noncoding RNAs with important posttranscriptional regulatory functions. Recent data suggest that miRNAs are aberrantly expressed in many human cancers and that they may play significant roles in carcinogenesis. Here, we used microarrays to profile the expression of 315 human miRNAs in 10 normal mucosa samples and 49 stage II colon cancers differing with regard to microsatellite status and recurrence of disease. Several miRNAs were differentially expressed between normal tissue and tumor microsatellite subtypes, with miR-145 showing the lowest expression in cancer relative to normal tissue. Microsatellite status for the majority of cancers could be correctly predicted based on miRNA expression profiles. Furthermore, a biomarker based on miRNA expression profiles could predict recurrence of disease with an overall performance accuracy of 81%, indicating a potential role of miRNAs in determining tumor aggressiveness. The expression levels of miR-320 and miR-498, both included in the predictive biomarker, correlated with the probability of recurrence-free survival by multivariate analysis. We successfully verified the expression of selected miRNAs using real-time reverse transcription-PCR assays for mature miRNAs, whereas in situ hybridization was used to detect the accumulation of miR-145 and miR-320 in normal epithelial cells and adenocarcinoma cells. Functional studies showed that miR-145 potently suppressed growth of three different colon carcinoma cell lines. In conclusion, our results suggest that perturbed expression of numerous miRNAs in colon cancer may have a functional effect on tumor cell behavior, and, furthermore, that some miRNAs with prognostic potential could be of clinical importance. [Cancer Res 2008;68(15):6416–24]
Data from Frequent Inactivation of a Putative Tumor Suppressor, Angiopoietin-Like Protein 2, in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Kikuchi Ryoko , Tsuda Hitoshi , Kozaki Ken-ichi , Kanai Yae , Kasamatsu Takahiro , Sengoku Kazuo , Hirohashi Setsuo , Inazawa Johji , Imoto Issei
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Angiopoietin-like protein 2 (ANGPTL2) is a secreted protein belonging to the angiopoietin family, the members of which are implicated in various biological processes, although its receptor remains unknown. We identified a homozygous loss of ANGPTL2 (9q33.3) in the course of screening a panel of ovarian cancer (OC) cell lines for genomic copy-number aberrations using in-house array-based comparative genomic hybridization. ANGPTL2 mRNA expression was observed in normal ovarian tissue and immortalized normal ovarian epithelial cells, but was reduced in some OC lines without its homozygous deletion (18 of 23 lines) and restored after treatment with 5-aza 2′-deoxycytidine. The methylation status of sequences around the ANGPTL2 CpG-island with clear promoter activity inversely correlated with expression. ANGPTL2 methylation was frequently observed in primary OC tissues as well. In an immunohistochemical analysis of primary OCs, ANGPTL2 expression was frequently reduced (51 of 100 cases), and inversely correlated with methylation status. Patients with OC showing reduced ANGPTL2 immunoreactivity had significantly worse survival in the earlier stages (stages I and II), but better survival in advanced stages (stages III and IV). The restoration of ANGPTL2 expression or treatment with conditioned medium containing ANGPTL2 inhibited the growth of OC cells originally lacking the expression of this gene, whereas the knockdown of endogenous ANGPTL2 accelerated the growth of OC cells with the expression of ANGPTL2. These results suggest that, at least partly, epigenetic silencing by hypermethylation of the ANGPTL2 promoter leads to a loss of ANGPTL2 function, which may be a factor in the carcinogenesis of OC in a stage-dependent manner. [Cancer Res 2008;68(13):5067–75]
Data from The Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Controls Cell Shape and Growth of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma through Cdc42 Activation
Authors: Ambrogio Chiara , Voena Claudia , Manazza Andrea D. , Martinengo Cinzia , Costa Carlotta , Kirchhausen Tomas , Hirsch Emilio , Inghirami Giorgio , Chiarle Roberto
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that originates from T cells and frequently expresses oncogenic fusion proteins derived from chromosomal translocations or inversions of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. The proliferation and survival of ALCL cells are determined by the ALK activity. Here we show that the kinase activity of the nucleophosmin (NPM)-ALK fusion regulated the shape of ALCL cells and F-actin filament assembly in a pattern similar to T-cell receptor–stimulated cells. NPM-ALK formed a complex with the guanine exchange factor VAV1, enhancing its activation through phosphorylation. VAV1 increased Cdc42 activity, and in turn, Cdc42 regulated the shape and migration of ALCL cells. In vitro knockdown of VAV1 or Cdc42 by short hairpin RNA, as well as pharmacologic inhibition of Cdc42 activity by secramine, resulted in a cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of ALCL cells. Importantly, the concomitant inhibition of Cdc42 and NPM-ALK kinase acted synergistically to induce apoptosis of ALCL cells. Finally, Cdc42 was necessary for the growth as well as for the maintenance of already established lymphomas in vivo. Thus, our data open perspectives for new therapeutic strategies by revealing a mechanism of regulation of ALCL cell growth through Cdc42. [Cancer Res 2008;68(21):8899–907]
Data from MS4A12 Is a Colon-Selective Store-Operated Calcium Channel Promoting Malignant Cell Processes
Authors: Koslowski Michael , Sahin Ugur , Dhaene Karl , Huber Christoph , Türeci Özlem
Published: March 2023

Abstract
Using a data mining approach for the discovery of new targets for antibody therapy of colon cancer, we identified MS4A12, a sequence homologue of CD20. We show that MS4A12 is a cell surface protein. Expression analysis and immunohistochemistry revealed MS4A12 to be a colonic epithelial cell lineage gene confined to the apical membrane of colonocytes with strict transcriptional repression in all other normal tissue types. Expression is maintained upon malignant transformation in 63% of colon cancers. Ca2+ flux analyses disclosed that MS4A12 is a novel component of store-operated Ca2+ entry in intestinal cells. Using RNAi-mediated gene silencing, we show that loss of MS4A12 in LoVo colon cancer cells attenuates epidermal growth factor receptor–mediated effects. In particular, proliferation, cell motility, and chemotactic invasion of cells are significantly impaired. Cancer cells expressing MS4A12, in contrast, are sensitized and respond to lower concentrations of epidermal growth factor. In summary, these findings have implications for both the physiology of colonic epithelium as well as for the biology and treatment of colon cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(9):3458–66]
Sotorasib as First-Line Treatment for Advanced KRAS G12C-Mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Iska Sindu , Alley Evan W.
Published: March 2023

Mutations in the KRAS gene are the most common gain-of-function mutations found in lung adenocarcinomas. The most common mutation, KRAS G12C, is present in 13% of lung adenocarcinomas. Sotorasib (AMG-510) is an irreversible small molecule inhibitor targeting KRAS G12C. In preclinical studies, treatment with sotorasib led to the regression of KRAS G12C-mutated tumors, and clinical efficacy in NSCLC was demonstrated in clinical trials. In May 2021, sotorasib received US FDA approval for treatment of KRAS G12C-mutated locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC who have received at least one prior systemic therapy. In this report, we present a case with metastatic, KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC who responded favorably to sotorasib as first-line therapy. The efficacy of sotorasib as first-line treatment in this patient was remarkable, which supports further study of sotorasib as first-line therapy for KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC, especially in fragile patients with comorbidities.
Culprit Plaques of Large Parent Arteries, Rather than Cerebral Small Vessel Disease, Contribute to Early Neurological Deterioration in Stroke Patients with Intracranial Branch Atheromatous Disease
Authors: Men Xuejiao , Hu Mengyan , Guo Zhuoxin , Li Yu , Zheng Lu , Wu Ruizhen , Huang Xuehong , Zhang Bingjun , Lu Zhengqi
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Intracranial branch atheromatous disease (BAD) has been applied to occlusions that occur at the origin of large caliber penetrating arteries due to the microatheromas or large parent artery plaques. This study aimed to explore the association between culprit plaques of large parent arteries, neuroimaging markers of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), and the risk of early neurological deterioration (END) in stroke patients with BAD. Methods: A total of 97 stroke patients with BAD in the vascular territories of the lenticulostriate arteries or paramedian pontine arteries, diagnosed using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging, were prospectively recruited in this observational study. A culprit plaque in the middle cerebral artery was defined as the only arterial plaque on the ipsilateral side of an infarction visible on diffusion-weighted imaging. A culprit plaque in the basilar artery (BA) was identified when it was observed within the same axial slices of an infarction or on the adjacent upper or lower slice, whereas a plaque within the BA located in the ventral region was considered non-culprit. If more than one plaque was present in the same vascular territory, the most stenotic plaque was chosen for the analysis. Four CSVD neuroimaging markers, including white matter hyperintensity, lacunes, microbleeds, and enlarged perivascular spaces, were evaluated in accordance with the total CSVD score. The associations between neuroimaging features of lesions within large parent arteries, neuroimaging markers of CSVD, and the risk of END in stroke patients with BAD were investigated using logistic regression analysis. Results: END occurred in 41 stroke patients (42.27%) with BAD. The degree of large parent artery stenosis (p < 0.001), culprit plaques of large parent arteries (p < 0.001), and plaque burden (p < 0.001) were significantly different between the END and non-END groups in stroke patients with BAD. In logistic regression analysis, culprit plaques of large parent arteries (odds ratio, 32.258; 95% confidence interval, 4.140–251.346) were independently associated with the risk of END in stroke patients with BAD. Conclusions: Culprit plaques of large parent arteries could predict the risk of END in stroke patients with BAD. These results suggest that lesions in the large parent arteries, rather than damage to the cerebral small vessels, contribute to END in stroke patients with BAD.
FN (Fibronectin)-Integrin α5 Signaling Promotes Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm in a Mouse Model of Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Chen Minghao , Cavinato Cristina , Hansen Jens , Tanaka Keiichiro , Ren Pengwei , Hassab Abdulrahman , Li David S. , Youshao Eric , Tellides George , Iyengar Ravi , Humphrey Jay D. , Schwartz Martin A.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Marfan syndrome, caused by mutations in the gene for fibrillin-1, leads to thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs). Phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and ECM (extracellular matrix) remodeling are characteristic of both nonsyndromic and Marfan aneurysms. The ECM protein FN (fibronectin) is elevated in the tunica media of TAAs and amplifies inflammatory signaling in endothelial and SMCs through its main receptor, integrin α5β1. We investigated the role of integrin α5-specific signals in Marfan mice in which the cytoplasmic domain of integrin α5 was replaced with that of integrin α2 (denoted α5/2 chimera).

Methods:

We crossed α5/2 chimeric mice with

Fbn1
mgR/mgR

mice (mgR model of Marfan syndrome) to evaluate the survival rate and pathogenesis of TAAs among wild-type, α5/2, mgR, and α5/2 mgR mice. Further biochemical and microscopic analysis of porcine and mouse aortic SMCs investigated molecular mechanisms by which FN affects SMCs and subsequent development of TAAs.

Results:

FN was elevated in the thoracic aortas from Marfan patients, in nonsyndromic aneurysms, and in mgR mice. The α5/2 mutation greatly prolonged survival of Marfan mice, with improved elastic fiber integrity, mechanical properties, SMC density, and SMC contractile gene expression. Furthermore, plating of wild-type SMCs on FN decreased contractile gene expression and activated inflammatory pathways whereas α5/2 SMCs were resistant. These effects correlated with increased NF-kB activation in cultured SMCs and mgR aortas, which was alleviated by the α5/2 mutation or NF-kB inhibition.

Conclusions:

FN-integrin α5 signaling is a significant driver of TAA in the mgR mouse model. This pathway thus warrants further investigation as a therapeutic target.
Nörofinansın Sinirsel Bağlantıları Üzerine
Authors: POLAT Yusuf
Published: March 2023

Bu çalışmada ekonomik ve finansal olarak algı, tutum ve davranışta, bireysel ve sosyal karar vermede, ödül-ceza, kayıp-kazanç ve risk durumlarında yer alan nöral devrelere yönelik rapor edilmiş kanıtların gözden geçirilmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Beklenti Teorisinin nörobiyolojik bir temelini oluşturmayı hedefleyen nöroekonomi ve nörofinans araştırmalarının bulguları ışığında spesifik beyin bölgelerinin tanıtılması ve çoklu sinirsel devrelerin betimsel olarak haritalandırılması yoluyla literatüre katkıda bulunulması hedeflenmektedir. İlgili alana ilişkin çalışmalar bir bütün olarak nöro-psiko-farmakolojik araştırmalar şeklinde adlandırılmakta olup nörobiyolojik, nörokimyasal ve psikolojik mekanizmaların bir entegrasyonunu gerektirmektedir. Araştırmalar nörogörüntüleme, hayvan deneyleri, beyin lezyonları, nörotransmitter ve nöroendokrin sistem ile psikopatolojik kohortlara kadar geniş bir alana yayılmaktadır. Öte yandan söz konusu disiplinlerin ve yöntemlerin net biçimde birbirinden soyutlanarak ele alınması mümkün olmamakla birlikte, bu çalışmada, özelinde, nörolojik bulguların ön planda tutularak, ilgili noktalarda psikiyatriden ve farmakolojiden gerekli açıklamalar yapılarak ve nörolojik dil mümkün olduğunca nöroekonomi ve nörofinansa indirgenerek ve sadeleştirilerek yorumlanmaya çalışılmıştır.
Üst Orta Gelirli Ülkelerde Makroekonomik Performans Göstergelerinin Yoksulluk Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: EFEOĞLU Rabia , AZGÜN Sabri
Published: March 2023

Genel bir tanımlama ile insanların temel ihtiyaçlarını karşılayamama durumunu ifade eden yoksulluk, hanehalkı özellikleri, eğitim, cinsiyet vb. mikroekonomik; büyüme, enflasyon, işsizlik, gelir eşitsizliği vb. makroekonomik belirleyicileri olan bir kavramdır. Çalışmanın amacı, yoksulluğun belirleyicilerden makroekonomik belirleyicilerin yoksulluk ile ilişkisini test etmektir. 2009-2018 dönemi için 13 üst orta gelirli ülkede makroekonomik performans göstergelerinin yoksulluğa etkisi sistem GMM dinamik panel veri analiz yöntemi ile test edilmiştir. Bağımsız değişken olarak kullanılan ekonomik büyüme, enflasyon, işsizlik ve gelir eşitsizliği makroekonomik performans göstergeleri olarak belirlenmiştir. Elde edilen bulgulara göre, makroekonomik göstergelerden kişi başına GSYH arttıkça yoksulluk azalmakta, işsizlik ve gelir eşitsizliği arttıkça yoksulluk artmakta, enflasyonun ise yoksulluk üzerinde istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir etkisi yoktur.
Okyanus Kirliliğine Karşı Yeni Bir Finansal Yöntem: Mavi Tahviller
Authors: ÇAM Yasin
Published: March 2023

Üretim ve tüketim döngüsü üzerine kurulu yaşamsal faaliyetler sonucu ortaya çıkan kirlilik yayılımı, ekosistemi tehdit etmektedir. Kirliliği önleme ve sürdürülebilirlik için uluslararası önleyici politikalar üzerine uzlaşılmıştır. Ancak, ülkelerin ekonomik çıkarları öne sürülerek yapılan anlaşmalara uyulmamaktadır. Bu bağlamda, yeni yöntemler ve alternatif politikalar üretilmektedir. Bu çalışmada, çevre koruma sürecinde alternatif politika olarak önemli bir yer edinen tematik tahvillerin yeni bir türü olan mavi tahvillerin ortaya çıkış süreci, gelişimi ve geleceğinin irdelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Araştırma, doküman analizi tekniğiyle oluşturulmuş verilere dayalı nitel bir çalışma olarak tasarlanmıştır. Mavi tahvillerin, kamu ve özel sektör tarafından kullanımına yönelik öngörülerin de ele alındığı bu çalışmada çevre koruma sürecinde finansal yöntem olarak mavi tahvillerin kullanımının yaygınlaşmasının beklendiği, okyanuslardaki biyoçeşitliliği korumaya katkı sunacağı, küresel sürdürülebilirlik hedefleri için önemli bir role sahip olacağı ve okyanus ekonomisi ülkelerin ekonomilerinin devamlılığına katkı sunacağı bulgularına ulaşılmıştır.
New Evidence for Women’s Labor Participation and Occupational Structure in Northwest Spain, 1877–1930
Authors: Muñoz Abeledo Luisa , Verdugo Matés Rosa
Published: March 2023

The traditional historical analysis of the occupational structure in Spain is flawed, based on incomplete and inaccurate census data; the consequence is an underestimation of women’s work. Census data can be corrected with interdisciplinary methodologies that make use of literature and art, as well as ethnographic, legal, and sociological studies. Applied to Galicia (an agrarian and fishing region in northwest Spain), these methods reveal a more accurate, and significantly higher, estimation of women’s participation in the primary industries (agriculture, retail trade, fishing, and seafood processing) between 1877 and 1930.
Breath of Light: Reclaiming Shared Breathing Through a Meditative Installation
Authors: Liu Pinyao , Desnoyers-Stewart John , Stepanova Ekaterina R. , Riecke Bernhard E.
Published: March 2023

Breath of Light is an immersive breath-responsive installation aiming to reclaim the connective act of sharing breath in public spaces. During the exhibition at the 13th Shanghai Biennale in March 2021, the lead author interviewed and observed participants to better understand their experience. A follow-up interview conducted in January 2023 illustrated the work’s long-term effect on participants. This technological mediation of breathing explores its transformative potential to revive connective connotations of shared breathing and cultivate interoceptive awareness, reflection, and interhuman connection during the pandemic and beyond with the use of breathing interaction, metaphors, symbols, and ambiguous instructions.
Noise-Canceling Technologies for Smartphone Cameras: Self-Image in the Age of Anxiety
Authors: Treccani Carloalberto
Published: March 2023

Noise-canceling technologies for smartphone cameras allow individuals to control and customize their self-images. These technologies that are used to automatically eliminate unwanted visual noise, such as excessive grain or lighting issues, skin imperfections, and teeth stains, are now widely used on smartphones to transform a noisy photograph into a “clean” and “ideal” image. In this paper, the author conducts a critical analysis of (1) the increasing popularity of these technologies through their application in smartphone cameras; (2) their active involvement in the construction of users’ ideal self-images; and (3) their contribution to increased instances of visual phobias, obsessions, anxieties, and irritation.
From Rational to Metaphysical: R. Hayyim of Volozhin’s Torah Lishmah as a Radical Concept
Authors: Shuchat Raphael
Published: March 2023

Many see the mithnagdim as total rationalists. Therefore it has been assumed that R. Hayyim of Volozhin’s approach to Torah study was the same. Although rationalism may be a correct characterization of the method he used in talmudic study, it does not capture how R. Hayyim understood the essence of Torah study. Some have described Nefesh ha-Hayyim as demystifying Kabbalah. I agree that R. Hayyim opposes ecstatic Kabbalah. However, already in 1972 Norman Lamm noticed that R. Hayyim saw Torah study as a form of clinging to God. In my article, I go further and demonstrate how torah lishmah for R. Hayyim is a radical idea that includes a legitimate path to unio mystica, and even a way to divine inspiration.
Unraveling Siren (Caudata: Sirenidae) systematics and description of a small, seepage specialist
Authors: FEDLER MATTHEW T. , ENGE KEVIN M. , MOLER PAUL E.
Published: March 2023

For approximately four decades, scientists have known of the existence of several undescribed species of Siren in the southeastern United States Coastal Plain. One of these species, S. reticulata, was recently described, but a small, seepage-dwelling species has remained undescribed until now. To resolve outstanding questions concerning the phylogeny of Siren, we collected sequence and morphometric data from specimens across the range of Siren. We found S. lacertina and S. reticulata to represent strongly supported monophyletic groups, with S. reticulata having a sister relationship to all other Siren. Additionally, we found five distinct mtDNA lineages within what has been recognized as S. intermedia. Siren lacertina and type-locality S. intermedia (lineage A) are sister mtDNA lineages, whereas S. intermedia lineages B and C show a high level of mitogenomic divergence from type-locality S. intermedia. Analyses of two scnDNA loci revealed that S. lacertina is monophyletic but nested with low positional support in a clade including the three S. intermedia mtDNA lineages. Further study is needed to determine whether S. intermedia lineages A, B, and C represent distinct species or incompletely sorted lineages. We restrict the range of S. intermedia to the region from the Escambia and Perdido river drainages of Florida and Alabama eastward through Virginia (the combined ranges of lineages A, B, and C). We also elevate S. i. nettingi (lineage E) to species status and include the larger S. i. texana form in that taxon, generating a species that occurs from the Mobile Bay drainages westward through the Mississippi Basin and southwest into northeastern Mexico. Lastly, we describe a new miniature species, S. sphagnicola, that ranges from the Florida Parishes of Louisiana eastward to the westernmost tributary creeks of Choctawhatchee Bay in the western Florida panhandle.
New record genus and a new species of Himertula Uvarov, 1940 (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Phaneropterinae) from China
Authors: WU CHAO , LIU CHUN-XIANG
Published: March 2023

Previously 47 genera of the subfamily Phaneropterinae were recorded from China, not including the genus Himertula Uvarov, 1940. Here, Himertula Uvarov, 1940 is reported in China for the first time, adding a new species H. gyirongensis sp. nov., specimens of which were collected in Tibet, China. Illustrations and habitat images are provided. The distribution of Himertula species is also discussed and mapped. The types are deposited in Insect Collection of Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China (IZCAS).
Statistical Downscaling in the Tropics and Midlatitudes: A Comparative Assessment over Two Representative Regions
Authors: Hernanz Alfonso , Correa Carlos , Domínguez Marta , Rodríguez-Guisado Esteban , Rodríguez-Camino Ernesto
Published: March 2023

Statistical downscaling (SD) of climate change projections is a key piece for impact and adaptation studies due to its low computational expense compared to dynamical downscaling, which allows exploration of uncertainties through the generation of large ensembles. SD has been extensively evaluated and applied in the extratropics, but few examples exist in tropical regions. In this study, several state-of-the-art methods belonging to different families have been evaluated for maximum/minimum daily temperature and daily accumulated precipitation (both from the ERA5 at 0.25°) in two regions with very different climates: Spain (midlatitudes) and Central America (tropics). Some key assumptions of SD have been tested: the strength of the predictor–predictand links, the skill of different approaches, and the extrapolation capability of each method. It has been found that relevant predictors are different in both regions, as is the behavior of statistical methods. For temperature, most methods perform significantly better in Spain than in Central America, where transfer function (TF) methods present important extrapolation problems, probably due to the low variability of the training sample (present climate). In both regions, model output statistics (MOS) methods have achieved the best results for temperature. In Central America, TF methods have achieved better results than MOS methods in the evaluation in the present climate, but they do not preserve trends in the future. For precipitation, MOS methods and the extreme gradient boost machine learning method have achieved the best results in both regions. In addition, it has been found that, although the use of humidity indices as predictors improves results for the downscaling of precipitation, future trends given by statistical methods are very sensitive to the use of one or another index. Three indices have been compared: relative humidity, specific humidity, and dewpoint depression. The use of the specific humidity has been found to lead to trends given by the downscaled projections that deviate seriously from those given by raw global climate models in both regions.
Is the Outflow-Layer Inertial Stability Crucial to the Energy Cycle and Development of Tropical Cyclones?
Authors: Li Yuanlong , Wang Yuqing , Tan Zhe-Min
Published: March 2023

This study revisits the issue of why tropical cyclones (TCs) develop more rapidly at lower latitudes, using ensemble axisymmetric numerical simulations and energy diagnostics based on the isentropic analysis, with the focus on the relative importance of the outflow-layer and boundary layer inertial stabilities to TC intensification and energy cycle. Results show that although lowering the outflow-layer Coriolis parameter and thus inertial stability can slightly strengthen the outflow, it does not affect the simulated TC development, whereas lowering the boundary layer Coriolis parameter largely enhances the secondary circulation and TC intensification as in the experiment with a reduced Coriolis parameter throughout the model atmosphere. This suggests that TC outflow is more likely a passive result of the convergent inflow in the boundary layer and convective updraft in the eyewall. The boundary layer inertial stability is found to control the convergent inflow in the boundary layer and depth of convection in the eyewall and thus the temperature of the energy sink in the TC heat engine, which determines the efficiency and overall mechanical output of the heat engine and thus TC intensification. It is also shown that the hypothesized isothermal and adiabatic compression legs at the downstream end of the outflow in the classical Carnot cycle are not supported in the thermodynamic cycle of the simulated TCs, implying that the hypothesized classical TC Carnot cycle is not closed. It is the theoretical maximum work of the heat engine, not the energy expenditure following the outflow downstream, that determines the mechanical work used to intensify a TC.
Morphological and thermal evaluation for a carbon epoxy prepreg laminate manufactured via hot compression molding
Authors: Brejão de Souza Samia Danuta , Gallo Nicola , Scavo Ignazio , Corvaglia Stefano Giuseppe
Published: March 2023

The fabricating process for composite by autoclave has a high cost and it is necessary a long cycle time until the part is ready and it is conceivable to open the autoclave. Instead, hot compression molding may be a quick prepare, that does not require a long handle time and the quality of the pieces is comparable to the parts made in autoclave. The hot compressing molding could be considered out-of-autoclave (OOA) cured process. OOA is broadly utilized due to be quicker and less expensive in relation to autoclave, past to be conceivable to fabricate complex formed parts and diminish auxiliary stages. For this purpose, it was utilized a prepreg made with epoxy-carbon fiber, that is utilized for autoclave prepare, but in this study it has been utilized for OOA process, to see in case it is conceivable to reach comparable or way better comes about compared with the tests from autoclave. The cover was fabricated through hot compression molding instep the normal process for this fabric, as autoclave. DSC tests were carried out to analyze the Tg (glass transition temperature) in arrange to confirm if there was a few polymerization reaction and confirm the combination of parameters that was proposed within the work arrange. The morphological tests were made to confirm if there was porosity within the composite, due to the fabricating process, and confirm in the event that the layers were well compacted.
rt269L-Type hepatitis B virus (HBV) in genotype C infection leads to improved mitochondrial dynamics via the PERK–eIF2α–ATF4 axis in an HBx protein-dependent manner
Authors: Choi Yu-Min , Kim Dong Hyun , Jang Junghwa , Choe Won Hyeok , Kim Bum-Joon
Published: March 2023

Background

In our previous report, the rt269I type versus the rt269L type in genotype C2 infection led to poor clinical outcomes and enhanced mitochondrial stress in infected hepatocytes. Here, we sought to investigate differences between the rt269L and rt269I types in mitochondrial functionality in hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C2 infection, mainly focusing on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated autophagy induction as an upstream signal.

Methods

Mitochondrial functionality, ER stress signaling, autophagy induction, and apoptotic cell death between rt269L-type and rt269I-type groups were investigated via in vitro and in vivo experiments. Serum samples were collected from 187 chronic hepatitis patients who visited Konkuk or Seoul National University Hospital.

Results

Our data revealed that genotype C rt269L versus rt269I infection led to improved mitochondrial dynamics and enhanced autophagic flux, mainly due to the activation of the PERK–eIF2α–ATF4 axis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the traits found in genotype C rt269L infection were mainly due to increased stability of the HBx protein after deubiquitination. In addition, clinical data using patient sera from two independent Korean cohorts showed that, compared with rt269I, rt269L in infection led to lower 8-OHdG levels, further supporting its improved mitochondrial quality control.

Conclusion

Our data showed that, compared with the rt269I type, the rt269L type, which presented exclusively in HBV genotype C infection, leads to improved mitochondrial dynamics or bioenergetics, mainly due to autophagy induction via activation of the PERK–eIF2α–ATF4 axis in an HBx protein-dependent manner. This suggests that HBx stability and cellular quality control in the rt269L type predominating in genotype C endemic areas could at least partly contribute to some distinctive traits of genotype C infection, such as higher infectivity or longer duration of the hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positive stage.

Graphical Abstract
The peanut root exudate increases the transport and metabolism of nutrients and enhances the plant growth-promoting effects of burkholderia pyrrocinia strain P10
Authors: Han Lizhen , Zhang Hong , Bai Xue , Jiang Biao
Published: March 2023

Background

Burkholderia pyrrocinia strain P10 is a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) that can substantially increase peanut growth. However, the mechanisms and pathways involved in the interaction between B. pyrrocinia P10 and peanut remain unclear. To clarify complex plant–PGPR interactions and the growth-promoting effects of PGPR strains, the B. pyrrocinia P10 transcriptome changes in response to the peanut root exudate (RE) were elucidated and the effects of RE components on biofilm formation and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) secretion were analyzed.

Results

During the early interaction phase, the peanut RE enhanced the transport and metabolism of nutrients, including carbohydrates, amino acids, nitrogen, and sulfur. Although the expression of flagellar assembly-related genes was down-regulated, the expression levels of other genes involved in biofilm formation, quorum sensing, and Type II, III, and VI secretion systems were up-regulated, thereby enabling strain P10 to outcompete other microbes to colonize the peanut rhizosphere. The peanut RE also improved the plant growth-promoting effects of strain P10 by activating the expression of genes associated with siderophore biosynthesis, IAA production, and phosphorus solubilization. Additionally, organic acids and amino acids were identified as the dominant components in the peanut RE. Furthermore, strain P10 biofilm formation was induced by malic acid, oxalic acid, and citric acid, whereas IAA secretion was promoted by the alanine, glycine, and proline in the peanut RE.

Conclusion

The peanut RE positively affects B. pyrrocinia P10 growth, while also enhancing colonization and growth-promoting effects during the early interaction period. These findings may help to elucidate the mechanisms underlying complex plant–PGPR interactions, with potential implications for improving the applicability of PGPR strains.
Recent advances in therapeutic targets identification and development of treatment strategies towards Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections
Authors: Sanya Daniel Ruben Akiola , Onésime Djamila , Vizzarro Grazia , Jacquier Nicolas
Published: March 2023

The opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the causal agent of a wide variety of infections. This non-fermentative Gram-negative bacillus can colonize zones where the skin barrier is weakened, such as wounds or burns. It also causes infections of the urinary tract, respiratory system or bloodstream. P. aeruginosa infections are common in hospitalized patients for which multidrug-resistant, respectively extensively drug-resistant isolates can be a strong contributor to a high rate of in-hospital mortality. Moreover, chronic respiratory system infections of cystic fibrosis patients are especially concerning, since very tedious to treat. P. aeruginosa exploits diverse cell-associated and secreted virulence factors, which play essential roles in its pathogenesis. Those factors encompass carbohydrate-binding proteins, quorum sensing that monitor the production of extracellular products, genes conferring extensive drug resistance, and a secretion system to deliver effectors to kill competitors or subvert host essential functions. In this article, we highlight recent advances in the understanding of P. aeruginosa pathogenicity and virulence as well as efforts for the identification of new drug targets and the development of new therapeutic strategies against P. aeruginosa infections. These recent advances provide innovative and promising strategies to circumvent infection caused by this important human pathogen.
A clinical frailty scale obtained from MDT discussion performs poorly in assessing frailty in haemodialysis recipients
Authors: Anderson Benjamin M , Qasim Muhammad , Correa Gonzalo , Evison Felicity , Gallier Suzy , Ferro Charles J , Jackson Thomas A , Sharif Adnan
Published: March 2023

Background

The Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) is a commonly utilised frailty screening tool that has been associated with hospitalisation and mortality in haemodialysis recipients, but is subject to heterogenous methodologies including subjective clinician opinion. The aims of this study were to (i) examine the accuracy of a subjective, multidisciplinary assessment of CFS at haemodialysis Quality Assurance (QA) meetings (CFS-MDT), compared with a standard CFS score via clinical interview, and (ii) ascertain the associations of these scores with hospitalisation and mortality.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study of prevalent haemodialysis recipients linked to national datasets for outcomes including mortality and hospitalisation. Frailty was assessed using the CFS after structured clinical interview. The CFS-MDT was derived from consensus at haemodialysis QA meetings, involving dialysis nurses, dietitians, and nephrologists.

Results

453 participants were followed-up for a median of 685 days (IQR 544–812), during which there were 96 (21.2%) deaths and 1136 hospitalisations shared between 327 (72.1%) participants. Frailty was identified in 246 (54.3%) participants via CFS, but only 120 (26.5%) via CFS-MDT. There was weak correlation (Spearman Rho 0.485, P < 0.001) on raw frailty scores and minimal agreement (Cohen’s κ = 0.274, P < 0.001) on categorisation of frail, vulnerable and robust between the CFS and CFS-MDT. Increasing frailty was associated with higher rates of hospitalisation for the CFS (IRR 1.26, 95% C.I. 1.17–1.36, P = 0.016) and CFS-MDT (IRR 1.10, 1.02–1.19, P = 0.02), but only the CFS-MDT was associated with nights spent in hospital (IRR 1.22, 95% C.I. 1.08–1.38, P = 0.001). Both scores were associated with mortality (CFS HR 1.31, 95% C.I. 1.09–1.57, P = 0.004; CFS-MDT HR 1.36, 95% C.I. 1.16–1.59, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Assessment of CFS is deeply affected by the underlying methodology, with the potential to profoundly affect decision-making. The CFS-MDT appears to be a weak alternative to conventional CFS. Standardisation of CFS use is of paramount importance in clinical and research practice in haemodialysis.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov : NCT03071107 registered 06/03/2017.
Is Guillain–Barre syndrome following chickenpox a parainfectious disease? A case report and literature review
Authors: Ido Bademain Jean Fabrice , Guebre Sidi Mahamoud , Carama Emeline Agathe , Dabilgou Alfred Anselme , Napon Christian
Published: March 2023

Background

Polyradiculoneuropathy following infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV) is rare and most of the time, happens in the context of reactivation of latent VZV. We report a case of acute polyradiculoneuropathy following primary infection with VZV marked by atypical clinical features raising the hypothesis of a para-infectious disease.

Case presentation

We describe a 43-years-old male who developed ataxia, dysphagia, dysphonia, and oculomotor disorders (vertical binocular diplopia and bilateral ptosis) followed by quadriplegia with areflexia which occurred 4 days later. The patient had a history of varicella that occurred 10 days before the onset of these symptoms. Nerve conduction study revealed features consistent with an acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN). Anti-ganglioside antibodies were negative.

Based on clinical presentation and ancillary examination, we retain the Miller Fisher/Guillain-Barré overlap syndrome diagnosis.

The patient was treated with high doses of methylprednisolone but the evolution of the disease was nevertheless marked by a complete recovery six weeks after onset of symptoms.

Conclusion

GBS following varicella is a rare but severe disease occurring most often in adults and marked by greater involvement of the cranial nerves. Its clinical features suggest that it is a para-infectious disease. Antiviral therapy has no effect on the course of the disease but its administration within the first 24 h after the onset of chickenpox in adults can prevent its occurrence.
Evaluation of the association between asthma and non-neurogenic urinary incontinence in children; a case-control study
Authors: Ziaei Elaheh , Dorreh Fatemeh , Yousefichaijan Parsa , Sarmadian Roham , Sajjadi Nooshin , Kahbazi Manijeh
Published: March 2023

Background

Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children. Asthma can lead to sleep disorders and psychiatric issues, which are often accompanied by urinary incontinence in children. Furthermore, several studies have shown a relationship between allergic diseases and urinary incontinence. This study aims to examine the association between asthma and non-neurogenic urinary incontinence.

Materials and methods

This case-control study included 314 children over three years old referred to Amir Kabir Hospital; 157 with asthma and 157 without asthma. After explaining each urinary disorder in accordace with the International Children’s Continence Society’s definitions, parents and children were asked about their presence. The disorders included monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis(MNE), nonmonosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (NMNE), vaginal reflux (VR), pollakiuria, infrequent voiding, giggle incontinence (GI), and overactive bladder (OAB). The analysis was performed using Stata 16.

Results

The average age of the children was 8.19 ± 3.15 years. Patients with asthma (p = 0.0001) and GI (p = 0.027) had a considerably lower average age than patients without these disorders. Asthma and urinary incontinence, including NMNE, Infrequent voiding, and OAB, were significantly correlated (p = 0.017, 0.013, and 0.0001, respectively). Moreover, the association between MNE and asthma was significant in males (p = 0.047).

Conclusion

Due to the relationship between asthma and urinary incontinence, children with asthma must be evaluated for the presence of urinary disorders and, if present, receive the proper treatment in order to improve their quality of life.
Exploring the role of religion in the recovery experiences of suicide attempt survivors in Ghana
Authors: Osafo Joseph , Asare-Doku Winifred , Akotia Charity S.
Published: March 2023

Background

Religion performs a doubled edged role in a suicide crisis. On the one hand, it elicits empathic responses towards suicidal persons. On the other, it condemns and shames them. Although there is evidence that religion promotes better health and general wellbeing, little attention has been given to its role in recovery, especially after a suicide attempt. The current study explored how religion facilitated recovery among suicide attempt survivors.

Methods

Using a semi-structured interview guide, we interviewed suicide attempt survivors who had attended a psychiatric unit. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Ten suicide attempters were interviewed, six females and four males. Three major themes were identified: Reasons in context, Religion in the recovery process and Renewed commitment to religious rituals/practices.

Conclusions

The role of religion in suicide prevention as a resource, is a complex one. Suicide preventionists need to carefully guide and gauge their prevention efforts in context where religion is rife to provide suicide attempt survivors the most effective religious resource in their recovery trajectory.