bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The novel m6A writer methyltransferase 5 is a promising prognostic biomarker and associated with immune cell infiltration in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Muthumanickam Priyadharshini , Ramasubramanian Abilasha , Pandi Chandra , Kannan Balachander , Pandi Anitha , Ramani Pratibha , Jayaseelan Vijayashree Priyadharsini , Arumugam Paramasivam
Published: June 2024

Background

Emerging research has identified the N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification and its regulatory enzymes, including methyltransferase 5 (METTL5), as critical players in cancer biology. However, the role of METTL5 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains poorly understood.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a comprehensive study to investigate the expression and implications of METTL5 in OSCC. We recruited 76 OSCC patients to analyze METTL5 mRNA and protein expression using RT‐qPCR and western blot. Additionally, we analyzed METTL5 expression and its correlation with clinical features, patient prognosis, immune cell infiltration, and biological pathways using the TCGA‐HNSCC dataset, which primarily consists of OSCC samples.

Results

Our findings revealed significant overexpression of METTL5 in OSCC tissues compared to normal tissues. The high expression of METTL5 is associated with advanced cancer stages, higher tumor grades, nodal metastasis, and poorer patient outcomes, indicating its involvement in cancer progression. In silico functional analysis revealed that METTL5 plays a role in multiple biological pathways, highlighting its importance in cancer biology. Moreover, METTL5 has complex relationships with immune regulatory genes, suggesting its potential role in shaping the tumor immune microenvironment.

Conclusion

METTL5 is a promising candidate for the prognosis and therapeutic intervention of OSCC. Its overexpression in cancer tissues, association with clinical features, and intricate links to immune regulatory networks underscore its significance in this malignancy. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex factors influencing OSCC, and provides a foundation for future research and potential clinical applications.
Modulation of growth, immunity, and immune‐antioxidant gene expression in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, culture under biofloc system by dragon fruit, Hylocereus undatus, peel powder
Authors: Xuan Chinh Le , Nguyen Vu Linh , Wannavijit Supreya , Outama Piyatida , Khongdee Nuttapon , Sutthi Nantaporn , Nguyen Viet Vuong , Hoseinifar Seyed Hossein , Srisapoome Prapansak , Van Doan Hien
Published: June 2024

This study examines the use of dragon fruit peel (DFP) powder as a dietary supplement on growth performance, immune responses, and gene expression of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, cultured within biofloc systems. A total of 300 Nile tilapia fingerlings (14.64 ± 0.09 g) were subjected to five dietary treatments, with DFP added to a basal diet at doses of 0, 20, 40, 80, and 160 g kg−1 DFP. Growth and immunological responses were assessed after 4 and 8 weeks of feeding, and the transcriptional level of immune and antioxidant‐related genes was measured after 8 weeks. Fish fed diets containing DFP exhibited significantly greater weight gain, faster growth, and enhanced levels of key indicators of immunity than control fish (p < 0.05). A diet containing 40 g DFP kg−1 produced the best result in terms of growth, enhanced immune response indicators in skin mucus and blood serum, and the upregulation of IL‐1, IL‐8, LBP, GPx, GST‐α, and GSR expression (p < 0.05). Based on the quadratic regression analysis, the optimum concentration of DFP was 80 g kg−1. These findings collectively suggest that powdered DFP may serve as a promising feed supplement for Nile tilapia raised in biofloc systems.
Computing‐efficient video analytics for nighttime traffic sensing
Authors: Lashkov Igor , Yuan Runze , Zhang Guohui
Published: June 2024

The training workflow of neural networks can be quite complex, potentially time‐consuming, and require specific hardware to accomplish operation needs. This study presents a novel analytical video‐based approach for vehicle tracking and vehicle volume estimation at nighttime using a monocular traffic surveillance camera installed over the road. To build this approach, we employ computer vision‐based algorithms to detect vehicle objects, perform vehicle tracking, and vehicle counting in a predefined detection zone. To address low‐illumination conditions, we adapt and employ image noise reduction techniques, image binary conversion, image projective transformation, and a set of heuristic reasoning rules to extract the headlights of each vehicle, pair them belonging to the same vehicle, and track moving candidate vehicle objects continuously across a sequence of video frames. The robustness of the proposed method was tested in various scenarios and environmental conditions using a publicly available vehicle dataset as well as own labeled video data.
Craving for drugs
Authors: Pickard Hanna
Published: June 2024

The image of craving as a desire of unimaginable and irresistible force is poised to solve the puzzle of addiction: persistent drug use despite severe negative consequences. But the image is flawed. Drawing on science, philosophy, and first‐person testimony, I argue against irresistibility and develop a more nuanced, heterogeneous account of craving for drugs. Craving comes in three varieties, each corresponding to a kind of answer to the question why people crave drugs: cue‐induced, goal‐focused, and attachment‐based. This in turn grounds an approach to addressing addiction that is humane and heterogeneous, moving beyond strategies that are fundamentally controlling.
Pollination efficiency and the pollen–ovule ratio
Authors: Bochynek Thomas , Burd Martin
Published: June 2024

Pollination presents a risky journey for pollen grains. Pollen loss is sometimes thought to favour greater pollen investment to compensate for the inefficiency of transport. Sex allocation theory, to the contrary, has consistently concluded that postdispersal loss should have no selective effect on investment in either sex function. But the intuitively appealing compensation idea continues to be raised despite the lack of theoretical endorsement.

We address the theoretical issue with a model that directly represents pollen loss (and ovule loss through floral demise or loss of receptivity) as rate‐dependent dynamical processes. These loss rates can be varied to examine the effect of pollination efficiency on optimal sex allocation. Pollen–ovule ratios follow from the sex allocation based on the resource costs of pollen and ovule production.

This model confirms conventional findings that pollen loss should have essentially no effect on sexual resource allocation in large, panmictic populations. Pollen limitation of seed set does not alter this conclusion.

These results force us to rethink the empirical association of pollination efficiency with low pollen–ovule ratios. This pattern could arise if efficient pollen transport commonly results in stigmatic deposition of cohorts of related pollen. Empirical evidence of correlated paternity supports this explanation.
Exosomal miR‐196a‐5p contributes to esophageal squamous cell carcinoma malignant progression by inhibiting ITM2B
Authors: Huang Min , Li Shuang , Zeng Hai , Zhu Yan , Zhang Fan , Cai Jun
Published: June 2024

Exosomes from cancer cells function as carriers to spread or transport specific microRNAs (miRNAs) to distant sites to exert their effects, but the mechanism of exosomal miRNA action in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been fully explained. Therefore, in this study, we were interested in the impact of exosomal miR‐196a‐5p in ESCC progression. We found that miR‐196a‐5p was expressed enriched in clinical tissues, ESCC cells, and exosomes. Functionally, depletion of miR‐196a‐5p impeded ESCC cell growth, migration, and invasion, whereas overexpression of miR‐196a‐5p produced the opposite results. Moreover, enhancement of exosomal miR‐196a‐5p in recipient ESCC cells triggered more intense proliferation and migration. Mechanistically, we identified integral membrane protein 2B (ITM2B) as a direct target of miR‐196a‐5p. Silencing of ITM2B partially counteracted the inhibitory effect of miR‐196a‐5p inhibitors on the malignant phenotype of ESCC. Furthermore, in vivo, lower miR‐196a‐5p levels triggered by the introduction of antagomiR‐196a‐5p resulted in the generation of smaller volume and weight xenograft tumors. Thus, our results demonstrated novel mechanisms of exosomal and intracellular miR‐196a‐5p‐mediated ESCC growth and migration and identify the interaction of miR‐196a‐5p with ITM2B. These works might provide new targets and basis for the development of clinical treatment options for ESCC.
Culturally tailoring a secondary suicide prevention intervention for American Indian and Alaska Native people in substance use treatment
Authors: Jansen Kelley J. , Livengood Adam , Ries Richard , Comtois Katherine Anne , Bergerson Dustin M. , Skinner Juli , Shaw Jennifer L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Substance use treatment programs are ideal places for suicide prevention interventions. People who misuse substances are at elevated risk for suicide compared to the general population. However, most treatment programs do not incorporate suicide prevention, and none have been adapted for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people. Preventing Addiction Related Suicide (PARS) is a suicide prevention module developed for use with people in treatment for substance misuse. A previous study demonstrated increased suicide help‐seeking among this population.

Objective

Culturally adapt PARS for use with AI/AN communities.

Methods

We conducted focus groups and interviews with stakeholders in three Tribal health systems. We elicited feedback on PARS content, structure, and implementation. Data were analyzed using constant comparison. Results were used to adapt PARS and member checking was used to refine it.

Results

Participants unanimously endorsed using PARS in their health systems. Suggested adaptations included shortening the module, using community‐specific information, removing jargon and stigmatizing language, and emphasizing cultural connectedness.

Discussion

This community‐based, qualitative study adapted the PARS module for use with AI/AN communities. Research is needed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of the adapted module. If found effective, this would represent the first evidence‐based suicide prevention intervention among AI/AN individuals in treatment for substance misuse.
How residual plastic film affects the soil water–salt and cotton growth at the seeding stage
Authors: Liu Qinggang , Wang Zhenhua , Zhang Jihong , Wen Yue , Chen Rui , Liu Ningning , Li Miao , Luo Pengcheng
Published: June 2024

Cotton holds a significant position among cash crops in China, with Xinjiang serving as the primary cotton‐growing region within the country. Agricultural practices involving plastic mulching have gained importance. However, the presence of residual plastic film affects the growth of cotton seedlings as well as the soil environment. Our study aimed to explore the impact of residual plastic film accumulation on the growth of cotton seedlings and the associated soil water‐salt environment. This was done through a barrel planting experiment, utilizing soil from cotton fields with varying durations of mulching. The study showed that when the mulching period exceeded 12 years (residual plastic film content of 260.77 kg hm−2), residual plastic film had a significant impact on cotton seedling growth and the soil environment. Residual plastic film reduces the seedling germination rate of cotton by up to 11.11% (7 days after irrigation, 15 years of film mulching, residual plastic film content of 309.88 kg hm−2). It also impedes the growth of cotton seedlings; plant height, stem thickness, and leaf area were reduced by 34.52%, 10.73%, and 37.18%, respectively (19 days after irrigation, 15 years of film mulching, residual plastic film content of 309.88 kg·hm−2). Compared with the treatment without residual plastic film, the shallow soil water content in the T5 treatment decreased by 1.19% (10 days after irrigation, 15 years of film mulching, residual plastic film content of 309.88 kg·hm−2). Residual plastic film in cotton fields subjected to long‐term mulching obstructs the normal growth and development of cotton seedlings while also impacting the transport of soil water and salt. Therefore, we recommend adopting biodegradable mulch or regularly recycling residual plastic film within mulched areas to prevent its accumulation and subsequent negative impacts.
Carbon to nitrogen stoichiometry of organic amendments influences the improvement of aggregate stability of a cropping vertisol
Authors: Du Mingming , Minasny Budiman , Rabbi Sheikh M. F.
Published: June 2024

Soil aggregation is one of the key processes controlling air, water and gas transport in soil. Long‐term cropping without returning organic matter in the soil can reduce the water stability of the aggregates. Microbial decomposition of organic matter plays a significant role in aggregate formation and hence can reverse the decline in the water stability of the aggregates. The inoculation of soil with beneficial microbes can improve the aggregate stability of cropping soil, potentially restoring its condition to healthy soil. However, the restoration of the aggregate stability may also be dependent on the C:N ratio of added organic matter. We hypothesize that a higher C:N ratio of added organic matter and microbial inoculation can trigger a more persistent improvement in aggregates. We treated pasture (aggregates were water‐stable) and cropping (aggregates were unstable in water) vertisols with sugarcane (C:N = 104) and lucerne (C:N = 23) residues with and without microbial inoculant that had both bacteria and fungi. After 4 months of incubation, we found that the slaking index dropped by 46% in sugarcane‐treated cropping soils, whereas the reduction was 27% in lucerne treatment. A similar reduction in the slaking index was also observed in the pasture soil but the magnitude of the reduction was lower than in the cropping soils. However, microbial inoculation did not show a statistically significant influence on reducing the slaking of cropping or pasture soils in this study. The reduction of slaking in both soils was supported by an increase in mean weight diameter (MWD), macro‐aggregates and the aggregate‐associated soil organic carbon. Our results demonstrated that organic carbon input with a high C:N ratio facilitates the restoration of water stability of the structurally unstable cropping soils.
Cambios en la percepción del bienestar socioambiental en tres ciudades del sistema de asentamientos humanos de Sonora a partir del TLCAN
Authors: Hernandez Fregoso Patricia Judith , Luque Agraz Diana
Published: June 2024

El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar los cambios en la percepción del bienestar socio – ambiental en los habitantes de tres ciudades del principal Sistema de Asentamientos Humanos de Sonora (SAHS), en el periodo transcurrido desde la firma del Tratado de Libre Comercio a la actualidad. Se aplicaron 212 entrevistas estructuradas a los habitantes de las ciudades de Nogales (70), Hermosillo (82) y Navojoa (60). Los resultados muestran que, a pesar de que las ciudades analizadas desempeñan distintas funciones dentro del SAHS y sus niveles de especialización son diferentes, la percepción de bienestar socio - ambiental de la población mantiene un patrón constante en los temas económicos y alimentarios, sin embargo, se manifiestan diferencias importantes en los temas ambiental (agua y clima), así como de las condiciones que presenta el espacio urbano.
El derecho de la geoingeniería: aproximaciones a los riesgos, responsabilidades y gobernanza global como medida para mitigar el cambio climático
Authors: Sarmiento Erazo Juan Pablo
Published: June 2024

La emergencia climática que se experimenta en la actualidad podría impulsar y brindar el ambiente político y económico para el desarrollo de tecnologías que intencionalmente modifiquen el clima. En este artículo se argumenta que, a partir de modelos preexistentes de gobernanza global del clima y el ambiente, y de los precedentes judiciales relativos a la responsabilidad internacional de los Estados, se hace necesario ajustar el modelo actual, de cara a dirigir una acción colectiva global, coordinada y solidaria, basada en la ciencia, que permita restablecer el holoceno y estabilizar el clima. De esta manera, se proponen alternativas a partir de las experiencias previas, como el Protocolo de Montreal y el Convenio Marco de las Naciones Unidas sobre Cambio Climático (CMNUCC) y casos de responsabilidad internacional derivados del depósito de sustancias tóxicas en el ambiente, para construir un modelo de evaluación integrado que prohíba aquellas tecnologías riesgosas por cuenta del principio de precaución y en el que se desarrollen e implementen las tecnologías de captura de carbono que garanticen la estabilización del clima, sin abandonar o aplazar los compromisos de reducción de gases de efecto invernadero (GEI) del Acuerdo de París.
Ellipsoidal Inclusions in Flexoelectric Solids
Authors: Xie Jinchen , Linder Christian
Published: June 2024

The flexoelectric effect, characterized by the induction of electric polarization by strain gradients, exhibits a remarkable size dependence. This makes flexoelectricity highly relevant for nanoscale electromechanical systems. Inevitably, flexoelectric solids, like all materials, are susceptible to various types of defects. These defects significantly influence the local electromechanical coupling phenomena, thereby affecting the performance of flexoelectric materials. This study investigates ellipsoidal inclusions in flexoelectric solids, a fundamental and classical defect type. We present Green’s functions for flexoelectricity, which is the basis for formulating the eigen deformation problem within flexoelectricity theory. We then derive the expressions for strain dilatation, electric potential, and polarization magnitude under a constant eigenstrain dilatation scenario, which allows us to effectively address the ellipsoidal inclusion problem in flexoelectric solids. The investigation then extends to different ellipsoidal inclusions, shedding light on their distinctive shape and size effects. The insights gained from this study provide perspectives on the potential failure mechanisms in defective flexoelectric solids and lay a theoretical foundation for the design of nanoscale flexoelectric systems.
Utrasound as a method for confirming the positioning of enteral catheters in critically ill patients
Authors: De Souza Ronan , Ravetti Cecilia Gómez , Silva e Castro Rafael , Frossard Elio Furbino , Dos Anjos Isabella Santanna , Dos Reis Gomes Angélica Gomides , Vassallo Paula Frizera , Nobre Vandack
Published: June 2024

Aim: To evaluate the agreement between the bedside ultrasound in a single epigastric window and the plain X-ray to confirm the positioning of the enteral catheter in critically ill patients.Material and methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study conducted in two Intensive Care Units of a university hospital. The ultrasound exams were carried out immediately after the introduction of the enteral catheter, using only the epigastric window, with an injection of 5 ml of air associated with 5 ml of saline solution. In all cases, the plain radiography was taken to confirm the positioning of the enteral catheter and to define the beginning of nutritional therapy.Results: This study included 83 patients, the positioning of the enteral catheter was confirmed by plain radiography in all cases and by ultrasound in 81 (97.6%) patients. The median duration of the ultrasound exam was 2 (2-3) minutes, while the time spent between the request for the X-ray and the release of the exam for a doctor’s appointment was 225 (120-330) minutes.Conclusion: Bedside ultrasound proved to be an effective, quick, and safe method to confirm the position of the enteral catheter in critically ill patients.
The application of dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in immediate distinguishing residual tumour from benign periablational enhancement after hepatocellular carcinoma radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Ma Yue , Li Yang , Zhu Min , Wang Shi-yu , Yang Feng-rong , Xu Yu-qing , Yang Ru , Wu Ban-ban , Sun Yi-xue
Published: June 2024

Aim: This study set out to access the performance of quantitative analysis of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in distinguishing between benign periablational enhancement (BPE) and residual tumor (RT) following radiofrequency ablation (RFA).Materials and methods: 165 tumors from 124 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma between 2021 and 2023 underwent RFA, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT), and CEUS in less than 24 hours. Analysis was done on the quantitative parameters from RT and BPE found by CEUS.Results: Complete ablation was obtained in 89.1% of lesions. When compared to BPE, RT had significantly greater peak intensity (PI), time to peak (TTP), area under the curve (AUC), ratio of PI and base intensity (PI/BI), and enhanced intensity (EI) values (all p<0.05). PI, TTP, AUC, PI/BI, and EI had large areas under the receiver operating (ROC) curves. A binary logistic regression analysis, respectively, demonstrated that PI and PI/BI were independent favorable prognostic variables.Conclusions: Multiple parameters of quantitative analysis of CEUS can aid in distinguishing immediately between RT and BPE lesions. PI and PI/BI may be a more promising parameter. Immediate CEUS evaluation following RFA may allow immediate retreatment of RT during the same operation time, which reduces patients’ hospital stays and financial costs.
Using an external electric field to tune active layer morphology enabling high-efficiency organic solar cells via ambient blade coating
Authors: Cui Fengzhe , Qiao Jiawei , Xu Yujie , Fu Zhen , Gui Ruohua , Zhang Chen , Zhou Rongkun , Ye Long , Du Xiaoyan , Chen Feng , Hao Xiaotao , Yan He , Yin Hang
Published: June 2024

The nanoscale morphology of the photoactive layer notably impacts the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs). Conventional methods to tune the morphology are typically chemical approaches that adjust the properties (such as solubility and miscibility) of the active components including donor, acceptor, and/or additive. Here, we demonstrate a completely different approach by applying an external electric field (EEF) on the active layer during the wet coating. The EEF-coating method is perfectly compatible with an ambient blade coating using environmentally friendly solvents, which are essential requirements for industrial production of OSCs. A record 18.6% efficiency is achieved using the EEF coating, which is the best value for open-air, blade-coated OSCs to date. Our findings suggest broad material applicability and attribute-enhanced performance to EEF-induced fiber formation and long-range ordering of microstructures of acceptor domains. This technique offers an effective method for producing high-performance OSCs, especially suited for industry OSC production based on open-air printing.
Single-cell topographical profiling of the immune synapse reveals a biomechanical signature of cytotoxicity
Authors: de Jesus Miguel , Settle Alexander H. , Vorselen Daan , Gaetjens Thomas K. , Galiano Michael , Romin Yevgeniy , Lee Esther , Wong Yung Yu , Fu Tian-Ming , Santosa Endi , Winer Benjamin Y. , Tamzalit Fella , Wang Mitchell S. , Santella Anthony , Bao Zhirong , Sun Joseph C. , Shah Pavak , Theriot Julie A. , Abel Steven M. , Huse Morgan
Published: June 2024

Immune cells have intensely physical lifestyles characterized by structural plasticity and force exertion. To investigate whether specific immune functions require stereotyped mechanical outputs, we used super-resolution traction force microscopy to compare the immune synapses formed by cytotoxic T cells with contacts formed by other T cell subsets and by macrophages. T cell synapses were globally compressive, which was fundamentally different from the pulling and pinching associated with macrophage phagocytosis. Spectral decomposition of force exertion patterns from each cell type linked cytotoxicity to compressive strength, local protrusiveness, and the induction of complex, asymmetric topography. These features were validated as cytotoxic drivers by genetic disruption of cytoskeletal regulators, live imaging of synaptic secretion, and in silico analysis of interfacial distortion. Synapse architecture and force exertion were sensitive to target stiffness and size, suggesting that the mechanical potentiation of killing is biophysically adaptive. We conclude that cellular cytotoxicity and, by implication, other effector responses are supported by specialized patterns of efferent force.
The intrinsic macrolide resistome of
Escherichia coli
Authors: Ma Yibing , Pirolo Mattia , Jana Bimal , Mebus Viktor Hundtofte , Guardabassi Luca
Published: June 2024

Intrinsic resistance to macrolides in Gram-negative bacteria is primarily attributed to the low permeability of the outer membrane, though the underlying genetic and molecular mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we used transposon directed insertion-site sequencing (TraDIS) to identify chromosomal non-essential genes involved in
Escherichia coli
intrinsic resistance to a macrolide antibiotic, tilmicosin. We constructed two highly saturated transposon mutant libraries of >290,000 and >390,000 unique Tn5 insertions in a clinical enterotoxigenic strain (ETEC5621) and in a laboratory strain (K-12 MG1655), respectively. TraDIS analysis identified genes required for growth of ETEC5621 and MG1655 under 1/8 MIC (
n
= 15 and 16, respectively) and 1/4 MIC (
n
= 38 and 32, respectively) of tilmicosin. For both strains, 23 genes related to lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis, outer membrane assembly, the Tol-Pal system, efflux pump, and peptidoglycan metabolism were enriched in the presence of the antibiotic. Individual deletion of genes (
n
= 10) in the wild-type strains led to a 64- to 2-fold reduction in MICs of tilmicosin, erythromycin, and azithromycin, validating the results of the TraDIS analysis. Notably, deletion of
surA
or
waaG
, which impairs the outer membrane, led to the most significant decreases in MICs of all three macrolides in ETEC5621. Our findings contribute to a genome-wide understanding of intrinsic macrolide resistance in
E. coli
, shedding new light on the potential role of the peptidoglycan layer. They also provide an
in vitro
proof of concept that
E. coli
can be sensitized to macrolides by targeting proteins maintaining the outer membrane such as SurA and WaaG.
The endosymbiont
Spiroplasma poulsonii
increases
Drosophila melanogaster
resistance to pathogens by enhancing iron sequestration and melanization
Authors: Hrdina Alexandra , Serra Canales Marina , Arias-Rojas Aranzazu , Frahm Dagmar , Iatsenko Igor
Published: June 2024

Facultative endosymbiotic bacteria, such as
Wolbachia
and
Spiroplasma
species, are commonly found in association with insects and can dramatically alter their host physiology. Many endosymbionts are defensive and protect their hosts against parasites or pathogens. Despite the widespread nature of defensive insect symbioses and their importance for the ecology and evolution of insects, the mechanisms of symbiont-mediated host protection remain poorly characterized. Here, we utilized the fruit fly
Drosophila melanogaster
and its facultative endosymbiont
Spiroplasma poulsonii
to characterize the mechanisms underlying symbiont-mediated host protection against bacterial and fungal pathogens. Our results indicate a variable effect of
S. poulsonii
on infection outcome, with endosymbiont-harboring flies being more resistant to
Rhyzopus oryzae
,
Staphylococcus aureus,
and
Providencia alcalifaciens
but more sensitive or as sensitive as endosymbiont-free flies to the infections with
Pseudomonas
species. Further focusing on the protective effect, we identified Transferrin-mediated iron sequestration induced by
Spiroplasma
as being crucial for the defense against
R. oryzae
and
P. alcalifaciens
. In the case of
S. aureus
, enhanced melanization in
Spiroplasma
-harboring flies plays a major role in protection. Both iron sequestration and melanization induced by
Spiroplasma
require the host immune sensor protease Persephone, suggesting a role of proteases secreted by the symbiont in the activation of host defense reactions. Hence, our work reveals a broader defensive range of
Spiroplasma
than previously appreciated and adds nutritional immunity and melanization to the defensive arsenal of symbionts.

IMPORTANCE

Defensive endosymbiotic bacteria conferring protection to their hosts against parasites and pathogens are widespread in insect populations. However, the mechanisms by which most symbionts confer protection are not fully understood. Here, we studied the mechanisms of protection against bacterial and fungal pathogens mediated by the
Drosophila melanogaster
endosymbiont
Spiroplasma poulsonii
. We demonstrate that besides the previously described protection against wasps and nematodes,
Spiroplasma
also confers increased resistance to pathogenic bacteria and fungi. We identified
Spiroplasma
-induced iron sequestration and melanization as key defense mechanisms. Our work broadens the known defense spectrum of
Spiroplasma
and reveals a previously unappreciated role of melanization and iron sequestration in endosymbiont-mediated host protection. We propose that the mechanisms we have identified here may be of broader significance and could apply to other endosymbionts, particularly to
Wolbachia
, and potentially explain their protective properties.
Complete genome sequence of
Sphingomonas
sp. strain R1, a bacterium isolated from tomato (
Solanum lycopersicum
)
Authors: Yen Hsi-Ching , Wang Si-Chong , Chen Wen-Ming , Lai Erh-Min , Kuo Chih-Horng
Published: June 2024

Sphingomonas
sp. strain R1 was isolated from the stem of a tomato plant and exhibited antagonism with
Agrobacterium
. The complete genome sequence of this bacterium consists of one 3,874,532 bp circular chromosome and two plasmids.
Characterization of mAbs against
Klebsiella pneumoniae
type 3 fimbriae isolated in a target-independent phage display campaign
Authors: Berry Sophia K. , Rust Steven , Irving Lorraine , Bartholdson Scott Josefin , Weinert Lucy A. , Dougan Gordon , Christie Graham , Warrener Paul , Minter Ralph , Grant Andrew J.
Published: June 2024

We used phage display, antibody engineering, and high-throughput assays to identify antibody-accessible targets of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
. We report the discovery of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) binding to type 3 fimbrial proteins, including MrkA. We found that anti-MrkA mAbs were cross-reactive to a diverse panel of
K. pneumoniae
clinical isolates, representing different O-serotypes. mAbs binding to MrkA have previously been described and have been shown to provide prophylactic protection, although only modest protection when dosed therapeutically
in vivo
in a murine lung infection model. Here, we used a combination of binding and opsonophagocytic killing studies using a high-content imaging platform to provide a possible explanation for the modest therapeutic efficacy
in vivo
reported in that model. Our work shows that expression of
K. pneumoniae
type 3 fimbriae in
in vitro
culture is not homogenous within a bacterial population. Instead, sub-populations of bacteria that do, and do not, express type 3 fimbriae exist. In a high-content opsonophagocytic killing assay, we showed that MrkA-targeting antibodies initially promote killing by macrophages; however, over time, this effect is diminished. We hypothesize the reason for this is that bacteria not expressing MrkA can evade opsonophagocytosis. Our data support the fact that MrkA is a conserved, immunodominant protein that is antibody accessible on the surface of
K. pneumoniae
and suggest that additional studies should evaluate the potential of using anti-MrkA antibodies in different stages of
K. pneumoniae
infection (different sites in the body) as well as against
K. pneumoniae
biofilms in the body during infection and associated with medical devices.

IMPORTANCE

There is an unmet, urgent need for the development of novel antimicrobial therapies for the treatment of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
infections. We describe the use of phage display, antibody engineering, and high-throughput assays to identify antibody-accessible targets of
K. pneumoniae
. We discovered monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) binding to the type 3 fimbrial protein MrkA. The anti-MrkA mAbs were found to be highly cross-reactive, binding to all
K. pneumoniae
strains tested from a diverse panel of clinical isolates, and were active in an opsonophagocytic killing assay at pM concentrations. MrkA is important for biofilm formation; thus, our data support further exploration of the use of anti-MrkA antibodies for preventing and/or controlling
K. pneumoniae
in biofilms and during infection.
Investigation of different methods in rapid microbial identification directly from positive blood culture bottles by MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: Karadağ Dilan , Ergon Mahmut Cem
Published: June 2024

Many methods are being tried for rapid and accurate identification of sepsis-causing microorganisms. We analyzed the performance of three different preparation methods [MBT Sepsityper IVD Kit (Bruker Daltonics GmbH, Germany), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) lysis, and differential centrifugation with protein extraction (Centrifugation +PE)] and compared in standard and Sepsityper modules of the Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS for direct identification of bacteria from 240 positive blood culture bottles of BACTEC FX (Becton Dickinson, USA). By using the standard module, correct identification at species level (score ≥2) was done in 46.7% of the samples with SDS lysis, 44.2% with centrifugation +PE, and 25.4% with the Sepsityper kit. These ratios at the genus level (score range 1.70–1.99) were 34.6%, 31.3%, and 32.5%, respectively. With SDS lysis (195), more bacteria were identified correctly than centrifugation +PE (181) and the Sepsityper kit (139). A statistically significant difference was found between SDS and the Sepsityper kit and Centrifugation +PE and the Sepsityper kit (
P
< 0.001, both). By using the Sepsityper module, correct identification at species level (score ≥1.8) was determined in 74.2% of the samples with SDS lysis and centrifugation +PE each and 55% with the Sepsityper kit. These ratios at the genus level (score range 1.60–1.79) were 16.3%, 10%, and 19.2%, respectively. SDS lysis (217) had significantly higher identification rates than centrifugation +PE (202) and the Sepsityper kit (178) (
P
= 0.028 and
P
< 0.001). A statistically significant difference was also observed between centrifugation +PE and the Sepsityper kit (
P
< 0.001). Best performance was obtained with SDS lysis among the methods. Although better performance was achieved by using Sepsityper software module, risk of misidentification should not be ignored.

IMPORTANCE

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition, and rapid and accurate identification of the causative microorganisms from blood cultures is crucial for timely and effective treatment. Although there are many studies on direct identification from blood cultures with MALDI-TOF MS, further standardization is still needed. In our study, we analyzed the performance of three different preparation methods and compared by using two analysis modules of the Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS for direct identification of bacteria from numerous positive blood culture bottles. The literature reports a limited number of studies that compare different preparation methods for direct blood culture identification, processing a large number of blood samples concurrently and evaluating the same samples as in our study. Moreover, although SDS is used very frequently in medical laboratories, there are few studies on direct identification from blood culture bottles. In our study, the highest correct identification rate was observed with the SDS method.
Bilateral peripapillary choroidal neovascular membranes in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease
Authors: Banerjee Mousumi , Kumar Abhishek , Azad Shorya Vardhan , Chawla Rohan
Published: June 2024

Choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) in Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease (VKH) is a known entity, observed primarily during the chronic convalescent and chronic-recurrent phases of the disease. However, the peripapillary location of CNVM is a rare finding.

We describe a case of chronic VKH with bilateral peripapillary CNVM detected using multimodal imaging and the associated differential diagnoses and treatment approach.

A combination of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections, systemic steroids and immunosuppressants is often required to manage the aggressive course of this choroidal neovascularisation.
Regional anesthesia in resource-limited and disaster environments: a daring discourse
Authors: Hughey Scott , Cole Jacob , Drew Benjamin , Brust Adam , Stedjelarsen Eric
Published: June 2024

Regional anesthesia (RA) is commonly used in perioperative settings of developed and well-resourced environments. RA has significant potential benefits when used in resource-limited environments, including disaster, mass casualty, and wartime environments. RA offers benefits over general anesthesia and opioid-based analgesia, including decreased risk of complications, decreased reliance on mechanical ventilation, improved cost efficiency, and others. The decreasing cost of ultrasound matched with its smaller size and portability increases the availability of ultrasound in these environments, making ultrasound-guided RA more feasible. This daring discourse discusses some historical examples of RA in ultralow resource environments, both man-made disasters and natural disasters. Future investigations should increase the usefulness and availability of RA in resource-limited environments.
Observations on the curvature of Physcomitrium patens (Hedw.) Mitt. and Funaria hygrometrica (Hedw.) caulonemal filaments
Authors: Antonishyn Nick A. , Duckett Jeffrey G. , Ashton Neil W.
Published: June 2024

Light-grown, whole gametophytic colonies of Physcomitrium (formerly Physcomitrella) patens (Hedw.) Mitt. exhibit a spiral morphology resulting from the strongly coordinated curvature of the population of peripheral caulonemal filaments. The direction of curvature is predominantly clockwise when cultures are illuminated from above and anticlockwise when illuminated from below. In P. patens, side branch initials (SBIs) emerge from caulonemal subapical cells on the outside of the curve. By contrast, the curvature of caulonemata of Funaria hygrometrica is predominantly anticlockwise when colonies are illuminated from above and clockwise when illuminated from below. In F. hygrometrica, SBIs emerge from caulonemal subapical cells on the inside of the curve. We have discounted a role for gravity in these phenomena and discuss several other possible mechanistic explanations. We also document for the first time thigmotropism of protonemata of P. patens.
Straight-Beam Approach for Vibration Analysis of Horizontal Curved Beams
Authors: Yang Y. B. , Liu Y. H. , Xu H. , Liu Y. Z. , Guo D. Z.
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the use of straight-beam elements to simulate the vibration of curved beams that is mathematically more challenging. First, analytical solutions of the out-of-plane and in-plane dynamic responses of the curved beam are derived for reference. Then, for the straight beam approach, the elastic stiffness matrix, consistent mass matrix, consistent nodal loads, and transformation matrix are derived and included in a procedure for computing the dynamic responses of the curved beam. The effectiveness of the straight beam approach in analyzing the free vibration and forced vibration (induced by moving vehicle) of the curved beam is validated, with the results compared with the theoretical solutions and those by Abaqus. It can be concluded that the straight beam approach is a simple and efficient means for analyzing the out-of-plane and in-plane vibrations of curved beams with high precision.
Interpretive Structural Modelling Approach to Evaluate Knowledge Sharing Enablers in Circular Supply Chain: A Study of The Indian Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Ganguly Anirban , Farr John V.
Published: June 2024

Knowledge sharing can be considered an important activity to improve the performance among various entities of a supply chain. The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate a set of critical knowledge-sharing enablers that might aid in successfully managing a circular supply chain (CSC) in the context of the Indian manufacturing sector. The knowledge-sharing enablers were determined through a review of the extant literature, coupled with discussion with subject matter experts (SMEs). The quantitative technique of interpretive structural modelling (ISM) was used to analyse the identified knowledge-sharing enablers. The findings of this study revealed that the knowledge-sharing capabilities of an organisation, organisation structure and support from the top management formed the most significant enablers for Indian manufacturing organisations. This study has significant managerial and academic contributions. While supply chain managers can use the findings of this study to gain a better understanding of the role of knowledge sharing in managing CSC in the Indian manufacturing context, policymakers can use these findings to formulate strategies for effectively managing the CSC, as well as improving its operational effectiveness. The findings can also aid academic researchers to further analyse the role that knowledge sharing might play in successfully managing CSC, including other industries (for example, service industries), as well as other geographical regions.
Response to “Discussion of ‘How Sensitive Are Bank Market Values to Regulatory Adjustments of Capital?’”
Authors: Lubberink Martien , Willett Roger
Published: June 2024

We provide a detailed response to Ines Simac's ( 2024 ) discussion of our study on the sensitivity of bank market values to regulatory adjustments (RAs) of capital. Initially, we investigated the relevance of these adjustments, motivated by ongoing changes in the definition of bank capital aimed at ensuring financial stability. Our research utilized log-log models to address the challenges of alternative methodologies that may not effectively capture the value relevance of bank capital and RAs. Our results underscore the stability and predictability of coefficients that measure value relevance.

We further explore the valuation perspective, distinguishing between a “valuation” model for a theory of the relation between market and accounting values and a statistical model that estimates the sensitivity of market values to changes in accounting variables. We advocate for the use of log-log models due to their robustness in estimating response coefficients as elasticities. This approach minimizes issues related to scale and distribution assumptions inherent in additive-linear models.

We also address minor points raised in the discussion, including the coefficient values of goodwill and Tier 2 capital. Our findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of how regulatory adjustments influence bank valuations, offering implications for both academic research and regulatory policy.
Up Against the Firewall
Authors: Ruizesparza Alejandro , Martinez Freddy
Published: June 2024

In a revolt against techno-optimism and the real-world violence it upholds, members of radical research collective Lucy Parsons Labs (LPL) call for an empiricism rooted in technopolitical critique. Drawing from their own years of labor in the struggles against racial and surveillance capitalism, current work in HCI, and radical theorists like Alfredo M. Bonanano and Modibo Kadalie, LPL invites us to incorporate an ethics of rebellion and progress our tech practices into principled, anti-authoritarian praxis.
Challenging Ableism: A Critical Turn Toward Disability Justice in HCI
Authors: Sum Cella M. , Spektor Franchesca , Alharbi Rahaf , Baltaxe-Admony Leya Breanna , Devine Erika , Dixon Hazel Anneke , Duval Jared , Eagle Tessa , Elavsky Frank , Fernandes Kim , Guedes Leandro S. , Hillman Serena , Kameswaran Vaishnav , Kirabo Lynn , Motahar Tamanna , Ringland Kathryn E. , Schaadhardt Anastasia , Scheepmaker Laura , Williamson Alicia
Published: June 2024

A reflection on our learnings from the CHI 2022 "Dreaming Disability Justice in HCI" workshop, and why we continue to call for disability justice, despite the limitations of how we practice it within academia and industry.
For Black Femmes, An Animation: Translating Research Into a Creative Inquiry
Authors: Musgrave Tyler
Published: June 2024

In this article, I write about the journey of translating academic research into creative inquiry to produce "For Black Femmes," a four-minute animated documentary. This project stemmed from a desire to explore online experiences faced by Black women and femmes, often overlooked by technology companies and researchers. Through storytelling and animation, I aimed to shed light on complex issues such as online harassment and cultural betrayal trauma theory, bridging the gap between academia and broader audiences.
Competitive Data-Structure Dynamization
Authors: Mathieu Claire , Rajaraman Rajmohan , Young Neal E. , Yousefi Arman
Published: June 2024

Data-structure dynamization
is a general approach for making static data structures dynamic. It is used extensively in geometric settings and in the guise of so-called
merge (or compaction)
policies in big-data databases such as LevelDB and Google Bigtable. Previous theoretical work is based on worst-case analyses for uniform inputs—insertions of one item at a time and non-varying read rate. In practice, merge policies must not only handle batch insertions and varying read/write ratios, they can take advantage of such non-uniformity to reduce cost on a per-input basis. To model this, we initiate the study of data-structure dynamization through the lens of competitive analysis via two new online set-cover problems. For each, the input is a sequence of disjoint sets of weighted items. The sets are revealed one at a time. The algorithm must respond to each with a set cover that covers all items revealed so far. It obtains the cover incrementally from the previous cover by adding one or more sets and optionally removing existing sets. For each new set the algorithm incurs
build cost
equal to the weight of the items in the set. In the first problem the objective is to minimize total build cost plus total
query cost
, where the algorithm incurs a query cost at each time

\(t\)

equal to the current cover size. In the second problem, the objective is to minimize the build cost while keeping the query cost from exceeding

\(k\)

(a given parameter) at any time. We give deterministic online algorithms for both variants, with competitive ratios of

\(\Theta(\log^{*}n)\)

and

\(k\)

, respectively. The latter ratio is optimal for the second variant.