bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An in silico FSHD muscle fiber for modeling DUX4 dynamics and predicting the impact of therapy
Authors: Cowley Matthew V , Pruller Johanna , Ganassi Massimo , Zammit Peter S , Banerji Christopher RS
Published: May 2023

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is an incurable myopathy linked to the over-expression of the myotoxic transcription factor DUX4. Targeting DUX4 is the leading therapeutic approach, however, it is only detectable in 0.1–3.8% of FSHD myonuclei. How rare DUX4 drives FSHD and the optimal anti-DUX4 strategy are unclear. We combine stochastic gene expression with compartment models of cell states, building a simulation of DUX4 expression and consequences in FSHD muscle fibers. Investigating iDUX4 myoblasts, scRNAseq, and snRNAseq of FSHD muscle we estimate parameters including DUX4 mRNA degradation, transcription and translation rates, and DUX4 target gene activation rates. Our model accurately recreates the distribution of DUX4 and targets gene-positive cells seen in scRNAseq of FSHD myocytes. Importantly, we show DUX4 drives significant cell death despite expression in only 0.8% of live cells. Comparing scRNAseq of unfused FSHD myocytes to snRNAseq of fused FSHD myonuclei, we find evidence of DUX4 protein syncytial diffusion and estimate its rate via genetic algorithms. We package our model into freely available tools, to rapidly investigate the consequences of anti-DUX4 therapy.
Hypovitaminosis D Implicated in the Development of Stress, Metabolic Syndrome and Hepatic Steatosis among Health Science Undergraduates attending a Tertiary Care Institute in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Aishwarya SK , Gayathri B , Prabu M , Renuka P , Vinodhini VM
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent worldwide and its association with stress has become an emerging problem. A collection of linked physiological, biochemical, clinical, and metabolic risk factors is known as the Metabolic Syndrome (MS). High stress level is found associated with vitamin D deficiency and features of metabolic syndrome symptoms. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, perceived stress, metabolic syndrome and hepatic steatosis among health science Undergraduate (UG) students and also to evaluate the association of vitamin D with percieved stress score, calcium, phosphorus, components of metabolic syndrome and indicators of liver steatosis. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in SRM Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Chennai, India, from February 2022 to August 2022. A total of 80 health science UG students in the age group of 19-25 years were included. The parameters included Fasting plasma glucose, Triglycerides (TGL), High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDLC), Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT), phosphorus, calcium, and a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score scale. Data were statistically analysed using Pearson’s correlation test and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the relationship of vitamin D with stress, metabolic syndrome and liver steatosis. Results: In the present study, majority 56 (70%) had vitamin D deficiency, 23 (28.75%) had insufficiency and 1 (1.25%) had sufficiency. An estimated 6 (7.5%) of students experienced low stress, 63 (78.75%) experienced moderate stress and 11 (13.75%) experienced high perceived stress. Indicators of metabolic syndrome occurred in 13 (16.25%) of the population. Nearly 6 (7.5%) of the participants displayed manifestation of fatty liver. A negative association was found between vitamin D with stress score, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist circumference, Blood Pressure (BP), phosphorus, fasting plasma glucose, TGL, HDLC, GGT, Fatty Liver Index (FLI) score. Conclusion: In the present study, vitamin D deficiency was most prevalent (70%), followed by metabolic syndrome, high stress and hepatic steatosis. Vitamin D showed a negative correlation with stress score, BMI, waist circumference, BP, phosphorous, fasting plasma glucose, TGL, HDLC, GGT and FLI score.
Evaluating the Magnitudes of Finance Availed by Farmers from Different Financial Agencies in the North-East Indian State of Tripura
Authors: Ray Poulami , Das Bhagirath
Published: May 2023

The current research was carried out in the West Tripura district of Tripura to examine the magnitude of agricultural financing availed by borrowers. A total of 120 farmers were chosen by implementing a multistage random sampling design to conduct a comprehensive analysis. Sector-wise advances of banks in West Tripura showed an increasing trend, and the percentage share to the agricultural sector was 34.27 %, whereas it was 65.72 % in the non-farm sector in 2020-21. The amount of loans availed by sample borrowers from Regional Rural Bank (42.88%) was the highest, followed by public sector banks (34.48%), cooperative banks (19.80%) and least from private sector banks (1.84%). Loans for both crop and allied activities were obtained by the beneficiaries from the selected bank branches of the district.
Comparison between DS, DSS and Triaxial Resistance Tests in Compacted Tropical Soils in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Ramos Viktor Labuto Fragoso Sereno , Mahler Claudio fernando , Jannuzzi Graziela
Published: May 2023

Direct shear (DS), Direct simple shear (DSS) and Triaxial tests with controlled shear rates were performed in two soils from the Baixada Fluminense region, in the city of São João do Meriti – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The soils in question are deposited on non-compacted soft soil with the addition of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). Both samples of compacted soil were excavated at a depth of 10.0 m, and undisturbed samples were collected. In both tests, the shear rate of 0.043 mm/min was adopted. The soil at Point 1 was characterized as a clay soil collected in a slope region and the soil at Point 2 is a sand and collected in a central region. The tests presented coherent results with probabilistic accuracy greater than 95% reliability in all three resistance tests.
Biofertilizers and Inorganic Fertilizers Application Impact on Available Nutrients in Soil of Kharif Maize
Authors: Janardhan S. , Prasad P. R. K. , Venkatasubbaiah P. , Venkateswarlu B. , Ramesh D.
Published: May 2023

A field experiment entitled “Biofertilizers and inorganic fertilizers application impact on available nutrients in soil of kharif maize” was conducted at Agriculture College Farm, Bapatla, during kharif of 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with seven treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of T1- Control; T2- 100% RDF; T3- 125% RDF; T4 – 100% RDF +Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (VAM); T5- 100% RDF +VAM + Azospirillum + Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB); T6- 75 % RDF + VAM; T7- 75 % RDF + VAM + Azospirillum + PSB. We recorded the available macro nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) and micronutrients (zinc, iron, manganese and copper) of maize during the study. The results revealed that available nitrogen during kharif of 2020-21 was significantly (P < 0.05) higher with 125 % RDF (T3) that was on par with T5 (100% RDF + VAM + Azospirillum + PSB) and T4 (100% RDF + VAM). Higher available phosphorus and potassium were recorded in the treatment T5 and it was on par with T7, T3 and T4 at knee high, tasseling and harvest stage of maize. However, micronutrient status was higher with application of 100% RDF +VAM + Azospirillum + PSB but non-significant at all the growth stages of maize during both the years of study. The biofertilizers have to be applied side-by-side with inorganic fertilizers to improve nutrient availability and increased the fertility status of soil and productivity.
Influence of Phosphorus and Bio-fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Black Gram (Phaseolus mungo L.)
Authors: Harika Darla , Debbarma Victor , Thrupthi M. G.
Published: May 2023

The field study took place in kharif 2022 at the Crop Research Farm, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.). to determine the “Effect of Phosphorus and Bio -fertilizer on growth and yield of black gram (Phaseolus mungo L).”  The results revealed that treatment -9 [Phosphorus -50 kg/ha + Rhizobium +PSB]  significantly increased plant height (45.69 cm), number of nodules/ plant (38.15),  plant dry weight (6.64 g),  Crop growth rate (2.99 g/m2/day), number of pods/plant (40.8), maximum number of seeds/pod(6.23), test weight (34.75 gm), seed yield (1371 kg/ha), stover  yield (2980 kg/ha), gross return (INR 89,290.00/ha), and net return (INR 60,797.00/ha). also, the maximum B:C ratio (2.13) was taken captive in treatment-9[ phosphorous 50 kg/ha + Rhizobium + PSB] in comparison to different treatments.
Multi-resistant Bacteria to Antibiotics in Hospitals: The Case of Neonatology Services of the University Hospitals Centers of Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Arlette Afran Sidjè , Valérie M’Bengue Gbonon , Bertin Tiékoura Konan , Bertin Kipré Guédé , Anatole Toty Abalé , Fernique Konan , Nathalie Guessennd , Simon-Pierre N’Guetta Assanvo , Mireille Dosso
Published: May 2023

Background: Multidrug-resistant bacteria (MDR) represent a global health scourge. Their emergence in hospital services complicates the clinical management of infections caused in particular in immunocompromised persons. The objective of our work was to evaluate the prevalence of MDR in the neonatal services of the University Hospitals Centers of Abidjan.

Materials and Methods: The present study took place from September to November 2020 and from January to June 2021. The samples collected consisted of venous blood samples for blood cultures, rectal swabs from newborns, nasal and hand swabs from health care workers, and swabs from inert surfaces and neonatal care equipment. Bacterial identification methods, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and Chi-square testing were performed.

Results: A total of 513 samples were obtained from which 215 organisms were isolated and identified. These bacteria consisted of 52.1% Gram-negative bacilli, of which 77.7% were Enterobacteriaceae and 47.9% Gram-positive cocci. Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) (25.6%), coagulase-Negative Staphylococcus (CoNS) (24.6%), and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) (23.2%) were the most isolated bacteria. The overall prevalence of MDR was 73.9%. The main antibiotic resistance phenotypes described were the production of Broad Spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) in 71.9% of Enterobacteriaceae and methicillin resistance (Meti-R) in 75.6% of Staphylococcus. ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae (E-ESBL) were mainly observed in rectal carriage and Meti-R strains in blood cultures in newborns in the respective proportions of 45.6% and 56.4%.

Conclusion: In our work, the results obtained showed a high prevalence of MDR in neonatal services and newborns are the most affected subjects. Improving hygiene rules and control and rationalizing the use of antibiotics are highly recommended control strategies to reduce the hospital dissemination of MDR.
Availability of Unique Device Identifiers for Class I Medical Device Recalls From 2018 to 2022
Authors: Mooghali Maryam , Ross Joseph S. , Kadakia Kushal T. , Dhruva Sanket S.
Published: May 2023

This cross-sectional study describes the inclusion of unique device identifier in recall notices for moderate- and high-risk medical devices in the US.
What Really Happened During the Massive SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Wave in China?
Authors: Ioannidis John P. A. , Zonta Francesco , Levitt Michael
Published: May 2023

This Viewpoint discusses reports from China after its zero COVID-19 policy ended in December 2022.
Resource allocation of backscatter communication based on reconfigurable intelligent surface
Authors: Wang Zhifei , Cao Qihao
Published: May 2023

In this article, we propose a double reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)‐aided ambient backscatter communication (AmBC) network combined with non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) technology, which not only successfully assists the base station (BS) in connecting with the cell edge user, but also enhances backscatter communication rate, energy efficiency, and spectrum efficiency. In an effort to obtain the highest backscatter communication rate, we design a RIS and BS‐based resource allocation problem which is solved by determining the optimal phase shifts of RISs and the optimal power allocation for signals of NOMA users. We break it down into two smaller challenges in order to discover the best solution. For one thing, we iterate the optimal phase shifts between the two RIS combinations using an alternating optimization technique. For another, the bisection method is used to provide the NOMA user with the ideal power allocation. Finally, the results of the simulation substantiate the viability of the proposed scheme.
Surface Energy Mediated Sulfur Vacancy of ZnIn2S4 Atomic Layers for Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Zhang Kailian , Dan Meng , Yang Jingfei , Wu Fengxiu , Wang Leigang , Tang Hua , Liu Zhao‐Qing
Published: May 2023

Constructing rich defect active site structure for material design is still a great challenge. Herein, a simple surface engineering strategy is demonstrated to construct one‐unit‐cell ZnIn2S4 atomic layers with the modulated surface energy of S vacancy. Rich surface energy can regulate and control the rich S vacancy, which ensures rich active sites, higher charge density and effective carrier transport. As a result, the ZnIn2S4 atomic layers with rich surface energy affords an obvious enhancement in H2O2 productive rate of 1592.04 µmol g−1 h−1, roughly 14.58 times superior to that with poor surface energy. Moreover, the in situ infrared diffuse reflection spectrum indicates that S vacancy as the oxygen reduction reaction active site is responsible for the critical intermediate *O2− and *OOH, corresponding to two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction. This study provides a valuable insight and guidance for constructing controllably defects to achieve highly efficient H2O2 production.
MnO2 Coated Mesoporous PdPt Nanoprobes for Scavenging Reactive Oxygen Species and Solving Acetaminophen‐Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Lu Yi , Pan Xinni , Cao Cheng , Fan Shanshan , Tan Haisong , Cui Shengsheng , Liu Yanlei , Cui Daxiang
Published: May 2023

As one of the most widely used drugs, acetaminophen, is the leading cause of acute liver injury. In addition, acetaminophen‐induced liver injury (AILI) has a strong relationship with the overproduced reactive oxygen species, which can be effectively eliminated by nanozymes. To address these challenges, mesoporous PdPt@MnO2 nanoprobes (PPM NPs) mimicking peroxide, catalase, and superoxide dismutase‐like properties are synthesized. They demonstrate nontoxicity, high colloidal stability, and exceptional reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging ability. By scavenging excessive ROS, decreasing inflammatory cytokines, and inhibiting the recruitment and activation of monocyte/macrophage cells and neutrophils, the pathology mechanism of PPM NPs in AILI is confirmed. Moreover, PPM NPs’ therapeutic effect and good biocompatibility may facilitate the clinical treatment of AILI.
A Smart Responsive Fluorescence‐MR Nanoprobe for Monitoring Tumor Response to Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Minghua , Tang Junjun , Lin Chao , Shen Aijun , Ma Xiaolong , Wu Jiaqi , Gao Xiaolong , Wang Peijun
Published: May 2023

Accurately evaluating tumor responses to immunotherapy is clinically relevant. However, non‐invasive, real‐time visualization techniques to evaluate tumor immunotherapy are still lacking. Herein, a smart responsive fluorescence‐MR dual‐modal nanoprobe, QM(GP)‐MZF(CP), is reported that can be targeted for cleavage by the cytotoxic T cell activation marker granzyme B and the apoptosis‐related marker cysteine‐aspartic acid‐specific protease 3 (Caspase‐3). The probe uses quinoline‐malononitrile (QM), an aggregation‐induced emission luminogen, and Mn‐Zn ferrite magnetic nanoparticles (MZF‐MNPs), a T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI) contrast agent, as imaging molecules that are linked with the substrate peptides specific to granzyme B and Caspase‐3. Therefore, both granzyme B and Caspase‐3 can target and cleave the substrate peptides in QM(GP)‐MZF(CP). Via aggregation‐induced fluorescence imaging of QM and the aggregation‐induced T2WI‐enhanced imaging effect of MZF‐MNPs, the status of T cells after tumor immunotherapy and the subsequent triggering of tumor cell apoptosis can be determined to identify tumor responsiveness to immunotherapy and thereby evaluate the effectiveness of this therapy in the early stages of treatment.
Highly Sensitive X‐Ray Detector Made of Large Lead‐Free Perovskite Cs3Bi2I9 Single Crystals with Anisotropic Response
Authors: Yang Manman , Li Anfeng , Hao Xia , Wu LiLi , Tian Wenbo , Yang Dingyu , Zhang Jingquan
Published: May 2023

Direct X‐ray detectors require high‐quality and large‐size materials to reduce radiation hazards. As an all‐inorganic lead‐free perovskite, Cs3Bi2I9 has good prospects for research and applications in the field of X‐ray detection. A refined evaporation method is proposed for the growth of Cs3Bi2I9 single crystals (SCs), and a high‐quality SC with a size of 18 × 20.5 × 3 mm3 is obtained. Due to the anisotropy of Cs3Bi2I9 SCs, two different device structures, vertical and coplanar, are designed. The coplanar device has a higher sensitivity of 59 464.4 µC Gyair−1 cm−2, while the vertical device performs better on the limit of detection (LoD), with an LodD as low as 1.27 nGyair s−1.
Dual Phase‐Conversion Strategy Reinforced Otitis Media Therapy Using Metastable Iron Sulfide‐Loaded Thermosensitive Hydrogel
Authors: Li Ziwei , Gong Rui , Abbas Ghulam , Feng Xiaozhou , Wang Xiaonan , Wang Jie , Huang Haibing , Han Jinghong , Zhang Bairu , Nie Guohui , Gao Lizeng , Ding Hui
Published: May 2023

Otitis media (OM) is a common bacterial disease in otolaryngology, which has a high incidence rate and seriously affects people's health and quality of life. The abuse of antibiotics is a severe public health problem worldwide, contributing to the emergence of multidrug‐resistant bacteria and vestibular/cochlear damage, leading to sensorineural hearing loss. In this study, PLGA‐PEG‐PLGA thermosensitive hydrogel (PPPTH) is employed as a drug delivery carrier to deliver metastable cystine‐denoted iron sulfides compounds (Cys‐nFeS) to treat Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)‐induced OM by topical injection through the eardrum. The combination of Cys‐nFeS and PPPTH (Cys‐nFeS/PPPTH) prevents Cys‐nFeS from rapidly oxidizing and constantly releasing Cys‐nFeS, fulfilling the goal of continuous therapy. The destructive effect of Cys‐nFeS/PPPTH on bacteria and bacterial biofilms in vitro and in vivo is evaluated. The results show that Cys‐nFeS/PPPTH has good antibacterial and biofilm destruction effects, low cytotoxicity, and excellent anti‐inflammatory effects. Moreover, it is found that Cys‐nFeS/PPPTH can repair S. aureus‐induced hearing loss in OM. This study demonstrates the promising potential of Cys‐nFeS/PPPTH for middle ear delivery and antibacterial treatment.
Ultrasensitive NGS MRD assessment in Ph+ ALL: Prognostic impact and correlation with RT‐PCR for BCR::ABL1
Authors: Short Nicholas J. , Jabbour Elias , Macaron Walid , Ravandi Farhad , Jain Nitin , Kanagal‐Shamanna Rashmi , Patel Keyur P. , Loghavi Sanam , Haddad Fadi G. , Yilmaz Musa , Issa Ghayas C. , Kebriaei Partow , Kornblau Steven M. , Pelletier Sarah , Flores Wilmer , Matthews Jairo , Garris Rebecca , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: May 2023

Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for BCR::ABL1 is the most common and widely accepted method of measurable residual disease (MRD) assessment in Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL); however, RT‐PCR may not be an optimal measure of MRD in many cases of Ph+ ALL. We evaluated the clinical impact of a highly sensitive next‐generation sequencing (NGS) MRD assay (sensitivity of 10−6) and its correlation with RT‐PCR for BCR::ABL1 in patients with Ph+ ALL. Overall, 32% of patients had a discordance between MRD assessment by RT‐PCR and NGS, and 31% of patients who achieved NGS MRD negativity were PCR+ at the same timepoint. Among eight patients with long‐term detectable BCR::ABL1 by PCR, six were PCR+/NGS−. These patients generally had stable PCR levels that persisted despite therapeutic interventions, and none subsequently relapsed; in contrast, patients who were PCR+/NGS+ had more variable PCR values that responded to therapeutic intervention. In a separate cohort of prospectively collected clinical samples, 11 of 65 patients (17%) with Ph+ ALL who achieved NGS MRD negativity had detectable BCR::ABL1 by PCR, and none of these patients relapsed. Relapse‐free survival and overall survival were similar in patients who were PCR+/NGS− and PCR−/NGS−, suggesting that PCR for BCR::ABL1 did not provide additional prognostic information in patients who achieved NGS MRD negativity. NGS‐based assessment of MRD is prognostic in Ph+ ALL and identifies patients with low‐level detectable BCR::ABL1 who are unlikely to relapse nor to benefit from therapeutic interventions.
Synthesis of Chiral Diarylmethylamines by Cobalt‐Catalyzed Enantioselective C‐H Alkoxylation
Authors: Wang Zhen‐Kai , Wu Yong‐Jie , Yao Qi‐Jun , Shi Bing‐Feng
Published: May 2023

Chiral diarylmethylamines (DAMA) are important structural motifs widely present in pharmaceuticals, natural products, and chiral ligands. Herein, we reported a highly enantioselective synthesis of chiral DAMAs via cobalt‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H alkoxylation strategy. The reaction features easy operation, the use of earth‐abundant and cost‐efficient cobalt(II) catalyst, and readily available ligand. A range of chiral DAMAs were efficiently synthesized in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 90 % yield and up to 99 % ee) through desymmetrization and parallel kinetic resolution. Moreover, this protocol was also compatible with the synthesis of chiral benzylamines via kinetic resolution.
The chemicals between us—First results of the cluster analyses on anatomy embalming procedures in the German‐speaking countries
Authors: Kerner Alexander Michael , Biedermann Uta , Bräuer Lars , Caspers Svenja , Doll Sara , Engelhardt Maren , Filler Timm J. , Ghebremedhin Estifanos , Gundlach Stefanie , Hayn‐Leichsenring Gregor U. , Heermann Stephan , Hettwer‐Steeger Ingrid , Hiepe Laura , Hirt Bernhard , Hirtler Lena , Hörmann Romed , Kulisch Christoph , Lange Tobias , Leube Rudolf , Meuser Annika Hela , Müller‐Gerbl Magdalena , Nassenstein Christina , Neckel Peter H. , Nimtschke Ute , Paulsen Friedrich , Prescher Andreas , Pretterklieber Michael , Schliwa Stefanie , Schmidt Katja , Schmiedl Andreas , Schomerus Christof , Schulze‐Tanzil Gundula , Schumacher Udo , Schumann Sven , Spindler Volker , Streicher Johannes , Tschernig Thomas , Unverzagt Axel , Valentiner Ursula , Viebahn Christoph , Wedel Thilo , Weigner Janet , Weninger Wolfgang J. , Westermann Jürgen , Weyers Imke , Waschke Jens , Hammer Niels
Published: May 2023

Hands‐on courses utilizing preserved human tissues for educational training offer an important pathway to acquire basic anatomical knowledge. Owing to the reevaluation of formaldehyde limits by the European Commission, a joint approach was chosen by the German‐speaking anatomies in Europe (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) to find commonalities among embalming protocols and infrastructure. A survey comprising 537 items was circulated to all anatomies in German‐speaking Europe. Clusters were established for “ethanol”‐, formaldehyde‐based (“FA”), and “other” embalming procedures, depending on the chemicals considered the most relevant for each protocol. The logistical framework, volumes of chemicals, and infrastructure were found to be highly diverse between the groups and protocols. Formaldehyde quantities deployed per annum were three‐fold higher in the “FA” (223 L/a) compared to the “ethanol” (71.0 L/a) group, but not for “other” (97.8 L/a), though the volumes injected per body were similar. “FA” was strongly related to table‐borne air ventilation and total fixative volumes ≤1000 L. “Ethanol” was strongly related to total fixative volumes >1000 L, ceiling‐ and floor‐borne air ventilation, and explosion‐proof facilities. Air ventilation was found to be installed symmetrically in the mortuary and dissection facilities. Certain predictors exist for the interplay between the embalming used in a given infrastructure and technical measures. The here‐established cluster analysis may serve as decision supportive tool when considering altering embalming protocols or establishing joint protocols between institutions, following a best practice approach to cater toward best‐suited tissue characteristics for educational purposes, while simultaneously addressing future demands on exposure limits.
Tender love and disassembly: How a TLDc domain protein breaks the V‐ATPase
Authors: Wilkens Stephan , Khan Md. Murad , Knight Kassidy , Oot Rebecca A.
Published: May 2023

Vacuolar ATPases (V‐ATPases, V1Vo‐ATPases) are rotary motor proton pumps that acidify intracellular compartments, and, when localized to the plasma membrane, the extracellular space. V‐ATPase is regulated by a unique process referred to as reversible disassembly, wherein V1‐ATPase disengages from Vo proton channel in response to diverse environmental signals. Whereas the disassembly step of this process is ATP dependent, the (re)assembly step is not, but requires the action of a heterotrimeric chaperone referred to as the RAVE complex. Recently, an alternative pathway of holoenzyme disassembly was discovered that involves binding of Oxidation Resistance 1 (Oxr1p), a poorly characterized protein implicated in oxidative stress response. Unlike conventional reversible disassembly, which depends on enzyme activity, Oxr1p induced dissociation can occur in absence of ATP. Yeast Oxr1p belongs to the family of TLDc domain containing proteins that are conserved from yeast to mammals, and have been implicated in V‐ATPase function in a variety of tissues. This brief perspective summarizes what we know about the molecular mechanisms governing both reversible (ATP dependent) and Oxr1p driven (ATP independent) V‐ATPase dissociation into autoinhibited V1 and Vo subcomplexes.
Sustainability reporting: Current state and challenges
Authors: Paridhi  , Arora Ashima
Published: May 2023

There exists a huge difference in sustainability reporting adoption & implementation within and between countries which affect achievement of desired results at global level for environmental protection and social development. This study summarises and analyses 133 studies of sustainability reporting published between year 2004 and 2022 in web of sciences (WoS) database through Bibliometric Analysis and also used Theory, Context, Characteristic Methodology framework to represent the state of research in this field for the first time. The study is divided in two sections (1) develop an understanding on sustainability reporting trends and thematic evolution, and (2) discussion on challenges of sustainability reporting adoption and implementation. The present study consolidates the state of research on sustainability reporting. The study finds a thematic shift since 2017 onwards and a significant increase in publications since 2018. It identifies four major thematic clusters namely, sustainability reporting, board gender diversity, content analysis, and ESG disclosure which reveals that ESG reporting, ESG disclosures, and sustainability stakeholder impact assessment has high potential for future research. It also contributes by identifying most prominent theories in the field viz stakeholder, legitimacy and institutional theory and preferred methodology as qualitative research. It finds emerging themes as Sustainability Reporting Quality, ESG disclosure, cross‐country evaluation and also highlights most relevant keywords and trends in the research field. Study recognises lack of common definition and conceptual understanding, standards measurement metrics and cross‐country evaluations as major challenges which stands as big problem at policy formation and implementation stage.
Deubiquitinating enzyme USP10 promotes osteosarcoma metastasis and epithelial–mesenchymal transition by stabilizing YAP1
Authors: Deng Jianyong , Yi Xuan , Feng Zuxi , Peng Jie , Li Dan , Li Chen , Deng Binbin , Liu Shuaigang , Sahu Souradeep , Hao Liang
Published: May 2023

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a fatal adolescent tumor, which is susceptible to remote metastases at an early stage, and its treatment remains a major challenge. ubiquitin‐specific protease 10 (USP10) is primarily located in the cytoplasm and can therefore deubiquitinate various cytoplasmic proteins. However, the expression and mechanism of USP10 in OS remain ambiguous. The aim of this study was to explore how USP10 affects Yes‐associated protein1 (YAP1) to influence the metastasis and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Methods

Western blotting, qRT‐PCR, and immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses were performed to evaluate USP10 and YAP1 levels. Using wound healing and transwell tests, the roles and molecular pathways of USP10 and YAP1 ability to migrate and invade of OS were investigated, and cell morphological alterations were examined using phalloidin staining.

Results

Our results indicated that USP10, a new type of deubiquitinating protease, is increased in OS tissues and cells contrasted with adjacent healthy tissues. Overexpression of USP10 correlated with tumor size, distant metastasis, and TNM stage, and was an independent factor of poor prognosis in OS patients. Also, USP10 expression is closely connected with the incident of OS metastasis and tumor size. Functional assays revealed that USP10 knockdown suppressed cell migrating and invading ability and inhibited the EMT of OS cells in vivo and in vitro. In addition, we showed that USP10 knockdown decreased the levels of YAP1, which is an important positive regulator of migration and invasion in many cancers. We also found a significant positive correlation between USP10 and YAP1 levels, further demonstrating that USP10‐induced migration and EMT are based on YAP1 in OS cells. In a mechanistic way, USP10 stabilizes the expression of YAP1 by mediating its deubiquitination in OS cells.

Conclusion

Together, this study showed that USP10 can directly interact with YAP1 to reduce ubiquitinated YAP1, thereby stabilizing its protein levels and affecting EMT and distant metastasis in OS cells.
Superoleophobic Polyketone Nanofiber Membranes for Efficient Separation of Oil/water Emulsions
Authors: Hou Jian , Choi Jinwon , Yun Jaehan , Jang Wongi , Kim Jun‐Hyun , Byun Hongsik
Published: May 2023

Electrospun nanofiber membranes derived from polyketone (PK) are precisely fabricated to exhibit an excellent separation efficiency for oil/water emulsions. The fiber diameter and pore size of the membrane are controlled by introducing NaOH to the precursor solution prior to electrospinning. The surface properties of the nanofibers are then controlled by the removal of NaOH with water and reduction of functional groups with sodium borohydride (NaBH4) to exhibit an air‐water superhydrophilicity and underwater superoleophobicity. This surface conversion process is easily monitored by the water contact angle and the underwater oil contact angle. Oil/water emulsions, including toluene, soybean oil, and hexadecane are filtered through the membranes to examine their separation efficiency and flux using total organic carbon and UV‐Vis measurements. The optimized membrane exhibits the minimum 97 % separation efficiency for all three oil/water emulsions and recyclability without notably losing its flux under gravity‐driven filtration conditions.
Characteristics of long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthetases in metabolism and cancer
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Wang Xiangdong
Published: May 2023

The deregulation of the metabolic network of cancer cells is now considered one of the characteristics of cancer. Aberrant lipid synthesis and additional lipid intake promote the rapid proliferation of cancer cells. In mammals, there are five members of the long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthase family involved in de novo lipid synthesis, fatty acid (FA) degradation and subsequent membrane modification. Their main function is to activate long‐chain FAs through the CoA chain link, and these conjugates are mainly used for the synthesis of triglycerides. In a variety of cancers, the expression of long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthetases (ACSLs) is different, and it also changes in different cancer subtypes. This review summarized recent research on the biological functions of ACSL, as well as recent advances in related diseases, and explored the potential therapeutic role of ACSL genes.
How best to support parents of children with an eating disorder: A commentary on Wilksch (2023)
Authors: Gorrell Sasha , Le Grange Daniel
Published: May 2023

Wilksch (2023) uses survey data to characterize the perspective of caregivers of children who have undergone treatment for an eating disorder. With this framework, the author presents an evocative view of both the challenges these parents experience in acquiring needed specialty treatment, as well as the negative impact that the caregiving role may have on their own well‐being. Altogether, this Forum underscores the unquestionable importance of not overlooking the practical and emotional needs of caregivers of youth with eating disorders, and presents a compelling call to action for our field to better support parents who navigate treatment for these challenging illnesses.
Contrasting effects of urbanization and fire on understory plant communities in the natural and wildland–urban interface
Authors: Hubert Mali M. , Schweitzer Jennifer A. , Giam Xingli , Papeş Monica
Published: May 2023

As human populations expand and land‐use change intensifies, terrestrial ecosystems experience concurrent disturbances (e.g., urbanization and fire) that may interact and compound their effects on biodiversity. In the urbanizing landscapes of the southern Appalachian region of the United States of America (US), fires in mesic forests have become more frequent in recent years. However, 80 years of forest management practices aimed at fire suppression in this region may have decreased landscape resistance or resilience to high‐severity fires. At the same time, housing development is rapidly expanding in the wildland–urban interface, creating opportunities to examine the combined effects of urbanization and fire disturbances on plant communities when fires occur. Here, we investigated how understory plant communities were affected by a fire that varied in severity at sites in Gatlinburg, TN, and in the adjacent Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Our goal was to investigate the individual and combined effects of fire and urbanization on plant community composition in the second growing season after a fire. Overall, we found a significant interaction effect of fire severity and urbanization on total plant abundance and richness, such that increasing fire severity was associated with lower abundance and richness in natural areas but higher abundance and richness in exurban areas. Shannon diversity was significantly affected by fire severity and urbanization, but not interactively. Plant composition was affected by fire severity, urbanization, and their interaction effects. Understory plant communities in exurban locations (low‐density residential areas near protected lands) were resilient following the pulse disturbance event (fire), likely because of their consistent exposure to a press disturbance (urbanization). Our study indicates a press disturbance may change the way a subsequent pulse disturbance affects plant communities. Our findings contribute new insights into how disturbances can interact to alter patterns of biodiversity in the southeastern US.
Life‐cycle benefits estimation for hybrid seismic‐resistant self‐centering braced frames
Authors: Hu Shuling , Zhu Songye
Published: May 2023

The hybrid self‐centering braced frames (HSBFs) with shape memory alloy‐based braces (SMABs) and viscous dampers (VDs) are an emerging structural system developed for improving the seismic resilience of traditional braced frames (e.g., buckling restrained braced frames [BRBFs]) and self‐centering braced frames (SCBFs) by reducing residual inter‐story drifts (RIDs) and floor acceleration responses simultaneously. Nevertheless, the excellent performance of HSBFs is captured by introducing high initial construction costs. This paper aims to highlight the benefits of HSBFs compared with BRBFs and SCBFs by investigating the earthquake‐induced life‐cycle costs. To this end, 6‐story BRBF, SCBF, and HSBF are designed separately to achieve the same maximum inter‐story drifts under design basis earthquakes (DBE) for a fair comparison. The advanced numerical models of the considered systems were developed, and nonlinear dynamic analyses were conducted to obtain the structural seismic responses under various intensities. Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) was adopted for considering the modeling uncertainty. The life‐cycle costs were subsequently estimated based on the revised HAZUS loss estimation method. The influence of RIDs, initial construction costs of SMABs and VDs, and values of contents inside buildings were comprehensively investigated. It has been found that HSBF can achieve better performance in reducing seismic loss than BRBF and SCBF due to its excellent capability of controlling structural and nonstructural damage. SCBF may show higher seismic loss than BRBFs, given high RID limits for demolition or high building contents’ value, highlighting the importance of controlling floor acceleration responses of SCBFs. The life‐cycle benefits of BRBFs, SCBFs, and HSBFs are highly influenced by the RIDs, initial construction costs of SMABs and VDs, building contents’ values, and building's lifetime. HSBFs show better life‐cycle benefits than SCBFs when the building's lifetime is not lower than 50 years. Compared to BRBF, the life‐cycle cost effectiveness of SCBF can be only achieved when the initial cost of SMABs is lower than 1.21 times that of BRBs for the building with 50 years’ lifetime; the life‐cycle cost effectiveness of HSBF6 can be only achieved when the initial cost of SMABs or VDs is lower than 1.84 times that of BRBs for the building with 50 years’ lifetime. It has been concluded that reducing the initial costs of SMABs and VDs is critical and essential for increasing the life‐cycle economic benefits of SCBFs and HSBFs and promoting their real‐world applications.
Petrography, mineral chemistry, metamorphism and Raman spectroscopic studies of Mahadevpur fall meteorite, India
Authors: Mazumdar Amulya Chandra , Pati Jayanta Kumar , Singh Anuj Kumar , Bhagabaty Balen , Phukan Sarat , Borah Pritom
Published: May 2023

The Mahadevpur (27°39′48″ N, 95°51′32″ E; Arunachal Pradesh, India) meteorite is a fall‐type, coarse‐grained rock consisting of a heterogeneous mixture of chondrules of varying types occurring in a matrix comprising mostly chondrule fragments. It was earlier classified as poorly shocked (S1, unshocked) ordinary chondrite (H4/5). The minerals observed in the Mahadevpur meteorite include olivine, orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene, albitic‐plagioclase, Fe‐Ni alloy and troilite with minor amounts of chromite and phosphate. Olivine and orthopyroxene are almost equilibrated. The textures and compositional features of minerals and chondrule margins indicate a limited degree of recrystallization. The equilibration temperature (700–800°C) for the Mahadevpur chondrite is consistent with the computed temperature (752–902°C) derived from the coexisting orthopyroxene‐clinopyroxene pairs. In the light of new evidences observed during the present study, such as olivine exhibiting undulose extinction and planar to sub‐planar fractures, olivine and orthopyroxene showing strong mosaicism, the shock‐melted plagioclase glasses, the presence of high‐pressure mineral phases and silicate darkening, the earlier proposed shock stage pronouncement has been modified to S4–S5 with supporting petrographic, sub‐microscopic and Raman spectroscopic data. This is the first comprehensive account of the Mahadevpur chondrite with an upgraded shock stage classification.
Integrity of randomized clinical trials: Performance of integrity tests and checklists requires assessment
Authors: Khan Khalid S. , Fawzy Mohamed , Chien Patrick F. W.
Published: May 2023

The integrity of randomized clinical trials (RCT) has become a concern owing to a recent rise in the number of retractions and the repercussions this has for evidence‐based patient care. However, there is little research on the subject of RCT integrity assessment. Recent literature reviews have revealed that journals' authors' instructions concerning integrity and their investigation policies concerning allegations of misconduct are heterogeneous. The judicious use of integrity tests applied to RCT manuscripts is hampered by an absence of data concerning misconduct prevalence (pre‐test probability), a failure to evaluate test performance (validity) and a lack of consensus over a gold standard (against which test accuracy can be evaluated). These deficiencies hinder the post‐publication correction of RCT records, the integrity evaluations in systematic reviews of RCTs and the prospective application of preventive solutions in RCT peer‐review and preprint assessment. Dealing with the current controversy about trustworthiness of RCT evidence requires a strong investment in research, reform and education concerning research integrity. The purpose of this review article is to highlight the current limitations in dealing with trial integrity‐related concerns and to propose solutions to some of these issues.
Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and endometrial cancer: A multicenter case–control study
Authors: Kietpeerakool Chumnan , Cheewakriangkrai Chalong , Rattanakanokchai Siwanon , Rattanalappaiboon Daungporn , Tiyayon Jitima , Chalapati Wadwilai , Tangsiriwattana Thumwadee , Tangjitgamol Siriwan , Kleebkaow Pilaiwan , Khunamornpong Surapan , Temtanakitpaisan Amornrat , Sribanditmongkhol Narisa , Lumbiganon Pisake
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess the associations between depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) and endometrial cancer.

Methods

This multicenter case–control study was conducted among tertiary hospitals in Thailand. Patients were women with endometrial cancer. Controls were women admitted for other conditions, matched for age within 5 years of the patients' age. The controls had to have no abnormal vaginal bleeding, history of hysterectomy, or cancers of the other organs. A standardized questionnaire was used to gather information. Conditional logistic regression was applied to calculate adjusted odds ratio (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

During 2015 to 2021, 378 patients and 1134 controls were included. Ever use of DMPA was associated with a 70% decreased overall risk of endometrial cancer (aOR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.21–0.42]). Endometrial cancer risk declined by 3% (aOR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.96–0.98]) for every 3 months of DMPA use. The magnitude of the decline in endometrial cancer risk did not vary appreciably by cancer subtypes (aOR, 0.26 [95% CI, 0.17–0.41] and 0.38 [95% CI, 0.22–0.65] for low‐grade and high‐grade tumors, respectively).

Conclusions

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate use was inversely associated with endometrial cancer risk in a duration‐dependent manner. This association was independent of cancer subtype.
Differentiating morphea from lichen Sclerosus by using multiphoton microscopy combined with U‐Net model for elastic fiber segmentation
Authors: Wang Qianqiong , Huang Xiaomin , Tu Yunmei , Huang Xinpeng , Lin Lihang , Chen Jianxin , Zhu Xiaoqin
Published: May 2023

This paper describes a methodology to differentiate morphea from lichen sclerosus based on examination with multiphoton microscopy (MPM) composed of two‐photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG). Subcellular‐resolution images were acquired by MPM from unstained lesion tissues then process spectral analysis to quantify the TPEF and SHG signals. Moreover, U‐Net was employed to segment elastic fiber in TPEF images to combine with collagen fiber in SHG images for precise fiber quantification. Predictions of segmentation showed excellent performance on several evaluation indicators. The mIoU, mPA, and F1 score reach 0.8516, 0.9281, and 0.941. The quantitative analysis demonstrated the increase of collagen fibers in morphea compared to that in lichen sclerosus cases. Meanwhile, the great diminution of elastic fiber in the dermis of lichen sclerosus was depicted based on MPM imaging. Thus, MPM was comparable to the histopathological examination and our experimental results accurately distinguish between morphea and lichen sclerosus.
Neonatal Fc receptor blockade as emerging therapy in diseases with plasma exchange indications
Authors: Yunce Muharrem , Katyal Nakul , Monis Grace Fortes , Muppidi Srikanth
Published: May 2023

Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blockade may represent a mechanism similar to plasma exchange (PLEX) in reducing immunoglobulin levels and thus have a broad implication for apheresis practitioners. Although only efgartigimod received FDA approval for myasthenia gravis in December 2021, multiple trials are currently underway with different FcRn therapies in a varied group of IgG antibody‐mediated neurological and hematological disorders which are outlined in this review. In this review we discuss FcRn's mechanism of action, and its potential use in various neurological and non‐neurological diseases. In addition, we further compare the kinetics and adverse events of PLEX and FcRn blockade. We encourage apheresis practitioners to be familiar with this class of drugs in order to better understand how these two therapies can be used either standalone, or in combination with other therapies as both FcRn antagonism and PLEX improve clinical state by reducing IgG levels and pathogenic antibodies.
A gene‐nutrient interaction between vitamin B6 and serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) affects genome integrity in Drosophila
Authors: Pilesi Eleonora , Angioli Chiara , Graziani Claudio , Parroni Alessia , Contestabile Roberto , Tramonti Angela , Vernì Fiammetta
Published: May 2023

Pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP), the catalytically active form of vitamin B6, participates as a cofactor to one carbon (1C) pathway that produces precursors for DNA metabolism. The concerted action of PLP‐dependent serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) and thymidylate synthase (TS) leads to the biosynthesis of thymidylate (dTMP), which plays an essential function in DNA synthesis and repair. PLP deficiency causes chromosome aberrations (CABs) in Drosophila and human cells, rising the hypothesis that an altered 1C metabolism may be involved. To test this hypothesis, we used Drosophila as a model system and found, firstly, that in PLP deficient larvae SHMT activity is reduced by 40%. Second, we found that RNAi‐induced SHMT depletion causes chromosome damage rescued by PLP supplementation and strongly exacerbated by PLP depletion. RNAi‐induced TS depletion causes severe chromosome damage, but this is only slightly enhanced by PLP depletion. dTMP supplementation rescues CABs in both PLP‐deficient and PLP‐proficient SHMTRNAi. Altogether these data suggest that a reduction of SHMT activity caused by PLP deficiency contributes to chromosome damage by reducing dTMP biosynthesis. In addition, our work brings to light a gene‐nutrient interaction between SHMT decreased activity and PLP deficiency impacting on genome stability that may be translated to humans.