bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TNFα-Induced Altered miRNA Expression Links to NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Endometriosis
Authors: Banerjee Saswati , Xu Wei , Doctor Aaron , Driss Adel , Nezhat Ceana , Sidell Neil , Taylor Robert N. , Thompson Winston E. , Chowdhury Indrajit
Published: June 2023

Endometriosis is a common gynecological inflammatory disorder characterized by immune system dysregulation, which is involved in lesion initiation and progression. Studies have demonstrated that several cytokines are associated with the evolution of endometriosis, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα). TNFα is a non-glycosylated cytokine protein with potent inflammatory, cytotoxic, and angiogenic potential. In the current study, we examined the ability of TNFα to induce dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) linked to NFkB signaling pathways, thus contributing to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Using RT-qPCR, the expression of several miRNAs was quantified in primary cells derived from eutopic endometrium of endometriosis subjects (EESC) and normal endometrial stromal cells (NESC), and also TNFα-treated NESCs. The phosphorylation of the pro-inflammatory molecule NF-κB and the candidates of the survival pathways PI3K, AKT, and ERK was measured by western blot analysis. The elevated secretion of TNFα in EESCs downregulates the expression level of several miRNAs significantly in EESCs compared to NESCs. Also, treatment of NESCs with exogenous TNFα significantly reduced the expression of miRNAs in a dose-dependent manner to levels similar to EESCs. In addition, TNFα significantly increased the phosphorylation of the PI3K, AKT, ERK, and NF-κB signaling pathways. Notably, treatment with curcumin (CUR, diferuloylmethane), an anti-inflammatory polyphenol, significantly increased the expression of dysregulated miRNAs in EESC in a dose-dependent manner. Our findings demonstrate that TNFα is upregulated in EESCs, which subsequently dysregulates the expression of miRNAs, contributing to the pathophysiology of endometriotic cells. CUR effectively inhibits the expression of TNFα, subsequently altering miRNA levels and suppressing the phosphorylation of AKT, ERK, and NF-κB.
Vaccination with Toxoplasma lysate antigen or its encapsulated niosomes form immunomodulates adjuvant-induced arthritis through JAK3 downregulation
Authors: Hassouna Sally S. , Allam Eman A. , Sheta Eman , Khodear Gehan A. M. , Khedr Marwa I. , Khedr Safaa I. , Gomaa Maha M.
Published: June 2023

Background

Inflammatory autoimmune arthritis like that present in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is treated by medications with many side effects. This study was a trial to benefit from Toxoplasma immune-modulatory effects on its host to treat arthritis in rat model resembling joints affection of RA. To avoid hazards of infection, Toxoplasma lysate antigen (TLA) was given instead of the whole infection, in addition to giving its encapsulated niosomes form, assuming that it would enhance the effect of TLA alone, to compare effects of both on disease activity with that of prednisolone.

Methods

Swiss albino rats were divided into 6 groups: normal control group and the remaining 5 groups were injected by CFA adjuvant to induce arthritis; one of those groups was the untreated model. Each of the other groups received one of the following (TLA, TLA-encapsulated niosomes, prednisolone or niosomes) for comparison of their results. Inflammatory markers measured at the end of the experiment were: interleukin 17 (IL-17), IL-10 and CRP by ELISA technique; histopathological assessment of the biopsied hind paw joints was done and also, Janus kinase 3 (JAK3) expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

TLA and TLA-encapsulated niosomes both mitigated the signs of clinical and histopathological arthritis and were having anti-inflammatory effects (decreased CRP, IL-17 and JAK3 expressions, while increased IL-10 levels) with better effects in TLA-encapsulated niosomes-treated RA group, both groups’ results were comparable to prednisolone. Niosomes also gave some anti-inflammatory effects but were mild in comparison to TLA and TLA-encapsulated niosomes.

Conclusion

Vaccination with both TLA and TLA-encapsulated niosomes for the first time in adjuvant-induced arthritis ameliorated the disease through diversion of immune system and JAK3 downregulation. Both vaccinations should be further tested to evaluate the possibility of their introduction for disease treatment and in other autoimmune diseases.
Magnetic Properties of Melt-Spun CoMnSi(B) Alloys
Authors: Suarez Rafael G. , Miranda Aida , Sánchez-Llamazares J. L. , Betancourt I.
Published: June 2023

MnCoSi and MnCoSiB0.5 alloys were obtained by melt-spinning technique in order to attain polycrystalline microstructures with average grain sizes well below 10 microns. Phase distribution studied by X-ray analysis indicated single-phase materials with orthorhombic structure and TiNiSi-type crystal symmetry. Chemical homogeneity was verified by means of scanning electron microscopy, whereas magnetic behavior corresponded to soft magnetic materials with coercivity values lower than 20 Oe and saturation magnetization of 80 emu/g. Magnetocaloric response of these MnCoSiB alloys was characterized by a maximum magnetic entropy change of 1.0 J/kg K (for a magnetic field variation of 2.0 Tesla) and attractive refrigerant capacity over 100 J/kg, which represents a significant enhancement respect to equivalent MnCoGe alloys.
Cylindroma of the breast with CYLD gene mutation: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Escher-Michlig Vanessa , Vlajnic Tatjana , Roma Luca , Marinucci Mattia , Piscuoglio Salvatore , Matter Matthias , Haug Martin , Weber Walter P. , Muenst Simone
Published: June 2023

Background

Cylindroma of the breast is a rare benign neoplasm. Since its first description in 2001, 20 cases have been reported in the literature.

Methods and results

We report another case of this rare tumor in a 60-year-old woman with demonstration of the underlying molecular alteration. Histologically, the tumor showed the typical “jigsaw” pattern of a dual population of cells with a triple-negative phenotype. The pathognomonic mutation of the CYLD gene mutation was detected by whole exome sequencing. Cylindromas show morphological overlap with the solid-basaloid variant of adenoid cystic carcinoma, which renders this differential diagnosis difficult. However, distinction of these two lesions is of outmost importance, since cylindromas, in contrast to solid-basaloid variant of adenoid cystic carcinoma, behave in an entirely benign fashion.

Conclusions

Careful evaluation of morphological features such as mitotic figures and cellular atypia is crucial in the diagnostic work-up of triple-negative breast lesions. It is important to keep cylindroma in mind as a pitfall and possible differential diagnosis for the solid-basaloid variant of adenoid cystic carcinoma. Molecular detection of CYLD gene mutation is helpful in cases with ambiguous histology. With this case report, we aim to contribute to a better understanding of mammary cylindroma and facilitate the diagnosis of this rare entity.
Frequency reconfigurable antipodal Vivaldi 2-port antenna based on graphene for terahertz communications
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Gaber Shaymaa M.
Published: June 2023

A graphene-based two ports antipodal Vivaldi antenna with improved gain for THz applications is introduced. The single antenna is composed of an antipodal Vivaldi antenna with a graphene radiator on the top and copper ground plane on the back with a total size equal to 108 µm × 84 µm to achieve reconfigurable performance from 3 to 4.5 THz. The reconfigurability is validated by changing the external DC Volt which in turn changes the graphene chemical potential and then changes the operating frequency. As well, to enhance the antenna gain, frequency selective surfaces (FSS) with a metallic patch are utilized to enhance the antenna gain. The FSS performance is investigated and optimized using a finite integral technique (FIT) software to achieve a reflective feature with band rejection from 2 up to 5 THz within the operating bands of the suggested antenna. The FSS is inserted below the MIMO antenna to reflect the antenna radiation and then enhance the antenna gain. The antenna gain is increased from 6 dB (single antenna without FSS) to 10.8 dB (with FSS) at 3.4 THz. The MIMO antenna is operated from 3.2 to 4.45 THz with S11 ≤ − 10 dB, isolation ˃ 20, gain from 8 to 10.8 dB, and efficiency higher than 80%. Finally, the MIMO parameters outcomes achieved good values which suggested the antenna to be employed in IoT THz applications.
Manipulation speed of light and giant phase shifting: a new quantum-based model for improving efficiency and security of internet of things
Authors: Karim Fazal , Haneef Muhammad , Sajid Ullah Syed , Alsafyani Majed , Alroobaea Roobaea , Algarni Sultan , Hussain Saddam
Published: June 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transitioning towards Quantum Computing soon, relying on electromagnetic waves for data transfer within circuits and between IoT devices. This paper introduces a four-level atomic medium controlled by electromagnetic fields to manipulate the speed of light, resulting in subluminal and superluminal information transfer for IoT. Subluminal propagation transmits data at an average rate, while superluminal propagation transfers data faster than conventional methods. The differentiation between these two modes of propagation is determined by the sign of the group index, which is positive for subluminal and negative for superluminal. Our proposed model reports a maximum positive and negative group index of ± 5000. This modified group velocity to become $${v}_{g}=\pm \,c/5000$$

v
g

=
±

c
/
5000

enhances IoT information transferring in quantum-based communication. The group delay time is measured to $${t}_{d}=\pm 10 \mu s$$

t
d

=
±
10
μ
s

in the medium, which increases the capacity for IoT information storage. The maximum value of normal and anomalous phase shift is reported to $$\Phi =\pm \, 20000$$

Φ
=
±

20000

radians at $$60 cm$$

60
c
m

lengths of the medium; this effect is used to divide information in sub-set that protect IoT information from different types of attacks and losses.
NLRP3 activation in macrophages promotes acute intestinal injury in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Shi Bo , Lyu Cheng-Jie , Le Zhen-Kai , Ji Hao-Sen , Xiao Yi , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Huang Shou-Jiang , Yu Lin-Jun , Shu Qiang , Tou Jin-Fa , Lai Deng-Ming
Published: June 2023

Background

Macrophages are involved in various immune inflammatory disease conditions. This study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of macrophages in regulating acute intestinal injury in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Methods

CD68, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat, and pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), cysteine aspartate-specific protease-1 (caspase-1), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in paraffin sections of intestinal tissues from NEC and control patients were detected with immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and western blot. Hypertonic pet milk, hypoxia and cold stimulation were used to establish a mouse (wild type and Nlrp3−/−) model of NEC. The mouse macrophage (RAW 264.7) and rat intestinal epithelial cell-6 lines were also cultured followed by various treatments. Macrophages, intestinal epithelial cell injuries, and IL-1β release were determined.

Results

Compared to the gut “healthy” patients, the intestinal lamina propria of NEC patients had high macrophage infiltration and high NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β levels. Furthermore, in vivo, the survival rate of Nlrp3−/− NEC mice was dramatically improved, the proportion of intestinal macrophages was reduced, and intestinal injury was decreased compared to those of wild-type NEC mice. NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β derived from macrophages or supernatant from cocultures of macrophages and intestinal epithelial cells also caused intestinal epithelial cell injuries.

Conclusions

Macrophage activation may be essential for NEC development. NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β cellular signals derived from macrophages may be the underlying mechanism of NEC development, and all these may be therapeutic targets for developing treatments for NEC.
A Systematic Approach to Consuming Data in Complex Data Management Landscapes Using Data Consumption Patterns
Authors: Giebler Corinna , Hoos Eva
Published: June 2023

Through data analytics, enterprises can exploit the value their data hold. However, there are still various challenges to be solved, one of them being how to consume data in heterogeneous data management landscapes. To address this challenge, we developed a systematic, hierarchical approach to data consumption, including six data consumption patterns, which is presented in this paper. Each of the six patterns can be associated with multiple implementation patterns that detail its technical realization. We report the application of these patterns in a real-world practical scenario and discuss the benefits of applying the data consumption patterns.
Small-livestock farmers’ perceived effectiveness of predation control methods and the correlates of reported illegal poison use in the South African Karoo
Authors: Drouilly Marine , Nattrass Nicoli , O’Riain M. Justin
Published: June 2023

The use of poison against predators is pervasive and negatively impacts biodiversity and ecosystem health globally. Little is known about the correlates of poison use as a lethal control method on small-livestock farmland. We used a mixed-methods approach to investigate commercial farmers’ experience with and perceived effectiveness of predation control methods, reported poison use and its correlates in the Central Karoo. Farmers perceived lethal methods to be cheaper and more effective than non-lethal methods in protecting their livestock from predation. They reported more experience with lethal methods, and over half reported having used poison. This is higher than other estimates in southern Africa and consistent with other survey-based evidence from the Karoo. Reported poison use was positively related to perceived efficacy, declining on-farm employment and perceived threats of predators. It was negatively related to terrain ruggedness. Our findings provide an understanding of the context and motivations shaping this illegal behavior.
Dogs at home and at the workplace: effects on allergies and mental health
Authors: Pali-Schöll Isabella , Dale Rachel , Virányi Zsófia
Published: June 2023

Since the beginning of domestication, the living conditions which are shared between humans and companion animals have changed dramatically. More time is spent together indoors, not only in urban places, but also in rural areas. Among the positive aspects is the asthma- and allergy-protective effect of living with pets during fetal development and infancy. In addition, there are benefits in terms of social interactions and mental health for humans and, as far as can be assessed, also for companion animals. Animals, especially dogs, are also brought more often to workplaces and schools. Thus, a number of the positive effects on social and health aspects are likely to come to these places of activity as well. Optimal preparation of the workplace for the animal by the owner, as well as instruction of employees and, additionally, training of the animal could help reduce potentially adverse effects. Such negative effects could include interference with work processes (phone calls, meetings, lectures, sales calls), and fear of bites or accident hazards by colleagues. In the sense of a One Health approach, this article focuses on the importance of animals (especially dogs) and humans sharing the home, but also the workplace. The effects on allergic/asthmatic diseases as well as on social and mental factors are particularly highlighted, as the latter may also contribute to these diseases. Only a few studies have examined the effects of contact between adult people, who are not pet owners themselves, with dogs in the work environment; so there is clearly a need for further research.
Chip-based photonic graph states
Authors: Huang Jieshan , Chen Xiaojiong , Li Xudong , Wang Jianwei
Published: June 2023

Graph states are one of the most significant classes of entangled states, serving as the quantum resources for quantum technologies. Recently, integrated quantum photonics is becoming a promising platform for quantum information processing, enabling the generation, manipulation, and measurement of photonic quantum states. This article summarizes state-of-the-art experimental progress and advances in the chip-based photonic graph states.
Outcomes of patients with bacteriuria/pyuria of clinically undetermined significance (BPCUS) treated with antibiotics in 23 community hospital emergency departments
Authors: Veillette John J. , Waters C. Dustin , Olson Jared , Vargyas George , Ingalls Emily M. , Hutton Mary A. , Tinker Nick , May Stephanie S. , Foster Rachel A. , Stallsmith Jena , Vento Todd J.
Published: June 2023

Narrative Abstract

The optimal management of bacteriuria/pyuria of clinically undetermined significance (BPCUS) is unknown. Among 220 emergency department patients prescribed antibiotics for BPCUS, we found frequent readmissions, which were mitigated by outpatient follow-up visits. Observation and follow-up for an unknown diagnosis should be emphasized over antibiotics due to high likelihood of readmissions.
Achieving Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Development Goals Effectively: A Cost-Benefit Analysis
Authors: Madise Nyovani , Nandi Arindam , Wong Brad , Razvi Saleema
Published: June 2023

Each year, 295,000 women die during and just after pregnancy, and 2.4 million babies die in the first month of their lives. In 2019, 2,160,000 neonatal deaths and 275,000 maternal deaths occurred in low-income and lower-middle-income countries alone, translating to a welfare loss equivalent to $426 billion and $36 billion for neonatal and maternal deaths, respectively. The total loss was $462 billion or almost 6 % of these countries’ combined GDP. In the sustainable development goals pledge, the world promised to reduce maternal deaths to 0.07 % and neonatal mortality to below 1.2 %, saving about 200,000 women and 1.2 million children from dying annually. However, on the current trajectory, maternal mortality is expected to decline to only 0.16 % and neonatal deaths to only 1.5 % by 2030. This article analyses the most cost-effective way to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths – Increase coverage of basic emergency obstetric and newborn care from 68 to 90 % combined with increased family planning services in 55 low-income and lower-middle-income countries which account for around 90 % of the burden of maternal and neonatal mortality globally. The proposed package will require $3.2 billion per year more investment and will deliver benefits worth $278 billion per year in avoided deaths and higher economic growth. It will also yield a demographic dividend benefit equivalent to $25 billion annually. For every $1 invested, the social and economic benefits are estimated to be $87. The benefit-cost ratio is 87.
A method to estimate surface mass-balance in glacier accumulation areas based on digital elevation models and submergence velocities
Authors: Jourdain Bruno , Vincent Christian , Réveillet Marion , Rabatel Antoine , Brun Fanny , Six Delphine , Laarman Olivier , Piard Luc , Ginot Patrick , Sanchez Olivier , Berthier Etienne
Published: June 2023

Measuring surface mass-balance in the accumulation areas of glaciers is challenging because of the high spatial variability of snow accumulation and the difficulty of conducting annual field glaciological measurements. Here, we propose a method that can solve both these problems for many locations. Ground-penetrating radar measurements and firn cores extracted from a site in the French Alps were first used to reconstruct the topography of a buried end-of-summer snow horizon from a past year. Using these data and surface elevation observations from LiDAR and Global Navigation Satellite System instruments, we calculated the submergence velocities over the period between the buried horizon and more recent surface elevation observations. The differences between the changes in surface elevation and the submergence velocities were then used to calculate the annual surface mass-balances with an accuracy of ±0.34 m w.e. Assuming that the submergence velocities remain stable over several years, the surface mass-balance can be reconstructed for subsequent years from the differences in surface elevation alone. As opposed to the glaciological method that requires substantial fieldwork year after year to provide only point observations, this method, once submergence velocities have been calculated, requires only remote-sensing data to provide spatially distributed annual mass-balances in accumulation areas.
Stricker Learning Span criterion validity: a remote self-administered multi-device compatible digital word list memory measure shows similar ability to differentiate amyloid and tau PET-defined biomarker groups as in-person Auditory Verbal Learning Test
Authors: Stricker Nikki H. , Stricker John L. , Frank Ryan D. , Fan Winnie Z. , Christianson Teresa J. , Patel Jay S. , Karstens Aimee J. , Kremers Walter K. , Machulda Mary M. , Fields Julie A. , Graff-Radford Jonathan , Jack Clifford R. , Knopman David S. , Mielke Michelle M. , Petersen Ronald C.
Published: June 2023

Objective:

The Stricker Learning Span (SLS) is a computer-adaptive digital word list memory test specifically designed for remote assessment and self-administration on a web-based multi-device platform (Mayo Test Drive). We aimed to establish criterion validity of the SLS by comparing its ability to differentiate biomarker-defined groups to the person-administered Rey’s Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT).

Method:

Participants (N = 353; mean age = 71, SD = 11; 93% cognitively unimpaired [CU]) completed the AVLT during an in-person visit, the SLS remotely (within 3 months) and had brain amyloid and tau PET scans available (within 3 years). Overlapping groups were formed for 1) those on the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) continuum (amyloid PET positive, A+, n = 125) or not (A-, n = 228), and those with biological AD (amyloid and tau PET positive, A+T+, n = 55) vs no evidence of AD pathology (A−T−, n = 195). Analyses were repeated among CU participants only.

Results:

The SLS and AVLT showed similar ability to differentiate biomarker-defined groups when comparing AUROCs (p’s > .05). In logistic regression models, SLS contributed significantly to predicting biomarker group beyond age, education, and sex, including when limited to CU participants. Medium (A− vs A+) to large (A−T− vs A+T+) unadjusted effect sizes were observed for both SLS and AVLT. Learning and delay variables were similar in terms of ability to separate biomarker groups.

Conclusions:

Remotely administered SLS performed similarly to in-person-administered AVLT in its ability to separate biomarker-defined groups, providing evidence of criterion validity. Results suggest the SLS may be sensitive to detecting subtle objective cognitive decline in preclinical AD.
Nouns are not always processed faster than verbs in bilingual speakers: effects of language distance
Authors: Momenian Mohammad , Privitera Adam John , Weekes Brendan
Published: June 2023

The purpose of the current report is to study the effects of language distance on noun and verb processing in bilingual speakers. We recruited two groups of bilingual speakers: one group spoke two typologically distant languages (Cantonese and English) and the other group spoke two typologically similar languages (Mandarin and Cantonese). Participants named object and action pictures in their first language. We controlled psycholinguistic properties of words such as frequency, AoA, imageability, name agreement, visual complexity, familiarity, and participants’ bilingual language experiences. Our findings revealed a significant role for language distance. We observed a difference between noun and verb processing in the similar language pair (Mandarin–Cantonese) due to interference induced by language similarity. However, in the distant language pair (Cantonese–English), the difference disappeared because of the lack of cross-language interference. Our findings support that current and future models of bilingual language processing should take into account the effects of language distance.
Measuring and exploring the barriers to translating palliative care knowledge into clinical practice in rural and regional health-care settings
Authors: Aregay Atsede , O’Connor Margaret , Stow Jill , Ayers Nicola , Lee Susan
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This study aims to measure and explore the barriers to translating theoretical knowledge of palliative care into clinical practice.

Methods

A mixed-method study, combining a cross-sectional survey and key interviews was conducted. The quantitative data were obtained from 173 nurses and the key interviews were conducted with 42 health professionals drawn from multiple settings. For quantitative data analysis, Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software were conducted, and a thematic analysis supported with NVivo software were used for analyzing qualitative data.

Results

Of the 220 nurses invited, 173 completed the survey (79%). Most (78%) had a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Fewer than half, 69 (40%) scored 75% or more for the knowledge test; 173 (100%) scored 50% or greater for attitude; and only 32 (18.5%) scored 75% or greater for self-reported practice. While there was a small, positive correlation between palliative care attitudes and self-reported practice (r = 0.22, p = 0.003), the qualitative findings indicated that nurses had significant challenges in translating their theoretical knowledge into clinical practice. Limited clinical practice was linked to inadequate knowledge resulting from insufficient integration of palliative care content in undergraduate curricula and a lack of follow-up training. This was further exacerbated by shortages of medicine, staff, and financial resources and was linked to limited attention accorded to palliative care by the government.

Significance of results

While the results showed the majority held positive views toward palliative care, improving palliative care practices requires, and enhancing nurses’ knowledge of palliative care. This requires changing teaching methods and engaging policymakers.
Divergence before the division: the colonial origins of separate development paths in Korea
Authors: Andersson Martin , López Jerez Montserrat , Miladinovic Luka
Published: June 2023

This study revisits the question of what impact Japanese colonialism had on the long-term economic development of North and South Korea. Factor endowments, economic activity and economic performance are compared between the regions that later became parts of North and South Korea, respectively. The study finds that important elements of the economic history of the peninsula have not been sufficiently acknowledged in much of the influential literature that uses Korea as an illustration of theoretical claims of the root causes of development. In particular, the fact that the economic divergence of northern and southern regions could be traced back to different colonial treatments – especially after mid-1920s – has often been overlooked when analysing the divergent post-partition development trajectories. The study suggests, based on a sectoral similarities analysis, that the initial dissimilar economic performance of North and South can at least partially be found in differences in political economy and economic trajectories preceding the partition.
Changes in employment status and income before and after newly diagnosed depressive disorders in Taiwan: a matched cohort study using controlled interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Chen Yu-Ling , Liao Wei-Hsiang , Wang Shih-Heng , Lien Yin-Ju , Chang Chia-Ming , Liao Shih-Cheng , Huang Wei-Lieh , Wu Chi-Shin
Published: June 2023

Aims

We explored long-term employment status and income before and after depression diagnosis among men and women and at different working ages in Taiwan.

Methods

Data from 2006 to 2019 were obtained from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). Individuals with newly diagnosed depressive disorder aged 15 to 64 years during the study period were identified. An equal number of individuals without depression were matched for their demographic and clinical characteristics. Employment outcomes included employment status, which was categorized into employed or unemployed, and annual income. Based on the occupation categories and monthly insurance salary recorded in the Registry for Beneficiaries of the NHIRD, a subject was defined as unemployed if he or she differed from the income earner or the occupation category was unemployed. Monthly income was defined as zero for unemployed subjects and proxied as monthly insurance salary for others. Annual income was the sum of monthly income in each observation year.

Results

A total of 420,935 individuals with depressive disorder were included in the study, and an equal number of individuals with not diagnosed depression served as controls. Employment rate and income were lower in the depression group than in the control group before the year of diagnosis, with a difference of 5.7% in employment rate and USD 1,173 in annual income. This gap increased considerably after the year of diagnosis (7.3% in employment rate and USD 1,573 in annual incomes) and further widened in the subsequent years (8.1% in employment rate and USD 2,006 in annual incomes in the 5th following year). The drops in the employment rate and income caused by depression were more evident in men and older age groups than in women and younger age groups, respectively. However, the reduction in employment rate and income in the following years after the diagnosis was more considerable among younger age groups.

Conclusions

The effect of depression on employment status and income was significant during the year of diagnosis and continued afterwards. The effect on employment outcomes varied between genders and across all age groups.
Regional and racial/ethnic inequalities in public drinking water fluoride concentrations across the US
Authors: Hefferon Rose , Goin Dana E. , Sarnat Jeremy A. , Nigra Anne E.
Published: June 2023

Background

Although the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers fluoridation of community water systems (CWSs) to be a major public health achievement responsible for reducing dental disease, recent epidemiologic evidence suggests that chronic exposure to population-relevant levels of fluoride may also be associated with adverse child neurodevelopmental outcomes. To our knowledge, a nationally representative database of CWS fluoride concentration estimates that can be readily linked to US epidemiologic cohorts for further study is not publicly available. Our objectives were to evaluate broad regional and sociodemographic inequalities in CWS fluoride concentrations across the US, and to determine if county-level racial/ethnic composition was associated with county-level CWS fluoride.

Methods

We generated CWS-level (N = 32,495) and population weighted county-level (N = 2152) fluoride concentration estimates using over 250,000 routine compliance monitoring records collected from the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Third Six Year Review (2006–2011). We compared CWS-level fluoride distributions across subgroups including region, population size served, and county sociodemographic characteristics. In county-level spatial error models, we also evaluated geometric mean ratios (GMRs) of CWS fluoride per 10% higher proportion of residents belonging to a given racial/ethnic subgroup.

Results

4.5% of CWSs (serving >2.9 million residents) reported mean 2006–2011 fluoride concentrations ≥1500 µg/L (the World Health Organization’s guideline for drinking water quality). Arithmetic mean, 90th, and 95th percentile contaminant concentrations were greatest in CWSs reliant on groundwater, located in the Southwest and Eastern Midwest, and serving Semi-Urban, Hispanic communities. In fully adjusted spatial error models, the GMR (95% CI) of CWS fluoride per a 10% higher proportion of county residents that were Hispanic/Latino was 1.16 (1.10, 1.23).

Impact statement

We find that over 2.9 million US residents are served by public water systems with average fluoride concentrations exceeding the World Health Organization’s guidance limit. We also find significant inequalities in community water system fluoride concentration estimates (2006–2011) across the US, especially for Hispanic/Latino communities who also experience elevated arsenic and uranium in regulated public drinking water systems. Our fluoride estimates can be leveraged in future epidemiologic studies to assess the potential association between chronic fluoride exposure and related adverse outcomes.
Prey preference in a kleptoplastic dinoflagellate is linked to photosynthetic performance
Authors: Yamada Norico , Lepetit Bernard , Mann David G , Sprecher Brittany N , Buck Jochen M , Bergmann Paavo , Kroth Peter G , Bolton John J , Dąbek Przemysław , Witkowski Andrzej , Kim So-Yeon , Trobajo Rosa
Published: June 2023

Dinoflagellates of the family Kryptoperidiniaceae, known as “dinotoms”, possess diatom-derived endosymbionts and contain individuals at three successive evolutionary stages: a transiently maintained kleptoplastic stage; a stage containing multiple permanently maintained diatom endosymbionts; and a further permanent stage containing a single diatom endosymbiont. Kleptoplastic dinotoms were discovered only recently, in Durinskia capensis; until now it has not been investigated kleptoplastic behavior and the metabolic and genetic integration of host and prey. Here, we show D. capensis is able to use various diatom species as kleptoplastids and exhibits different photosynthetic capacities depending on the diatom species. This is in contrast with the prey diatoms in their free-living stage, as there are no differences in their photosynthetic capacities. Complete photosynthesis including both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle remain active only when D. capensis feeds on its habitual associate, the “essential” diatom Nitzschia captiva. The organelles of another edible diatom, N. inconspicua, are preserved intact after ingestion by D. capensis and expresses the psbC gene of the photosynthetic light reaction, while RuBisCO gene expression is lost. Our results indicate that edible but non-essential, “supplemental” diatoms are used by D. capensis for producing ATP and NADPH, but not for carbon fixation. D. capensis has established a species-specifically designed metabolic system allowing carbon fixation to be performed only by its essential diatoms. The ability of D. capensis to ingest supplemental diatoms as kleptoplastids may be a flexible ecological strategy, to use these diatoms as “emergency supplies” while no essential diatoms are available.
Anastasis enhances metastasis and chemoresistance of colorectal cancer cells through upregulating cIAP2/NFκB signaling
Authors: Wang Ru , Wang Yuxing , Liu Xiaohe , Liu Menghao , Sun Lili , Pan Xiaohua , Hu Huili , Jiang Baichun , Zou Yongxin , Liu Qiao , Gong Yaoqin , Wang Molin , Sun Gongping
Published: June 2023

Chemotherapy is a common strategy to treat cancer. However, acquired resistance and metastasis are the major obstacles to successful treatment. Anastasis is a process by which cells survive executioner caspase activation when facing apoptotic stress. Here we demonstrate that colorectal cancer cells can undergo anastasis after transient exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs. Using a lineage tracing system to label and isolate cells that have experienced executioner caspase activation in response to drug treatment, we show that anastasis grants colorectal cancer cells enhanced migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Mechanistically, treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs induces upregulated expression of cIAP2 and activation of NFκB, which are required for cells to survive executioner caspase activation. The elevated cIAP2/NFκB signaling persists in anastatic cancer cells to promote migration and chemoresistance. Our study unveils that cIAP2/NFκB-dependent anastasis promotes acquired resistance and metastasis after chemotherapy.
SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Yang Yang , Xu Gaosi
Published: June 2023

Cancer patients are susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Different antitumor treatments have attracted wide attention in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) that have revolutionized oncology changes. It may also have protective and therapeutic roles in viral infections. In this article, we collected 26 cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection during ICIs therapy and 13 related to COVID-19 vaccination from Pubmed, EMBASE, and Wed of Science. Of these 26 cases, 19 (73.1%) presented mild cases and 7 (26.9%) were severe cases. Melanoma (47.4%) was a common cancer type in mild cases and lung cancer (71.4%) in severe cases (P = 0.016). The results showed that their clinical outcomes varied widely. Although there are similarities between the immune checkpoint pathway and COVID-19 immunogenicity, ICIs therapy overactivated T cells, which often leads to immune-related adverse events. In fact, the COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective in patients treated with ICIs. In this review, we report the vital clinical observations of SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination in cancer patients treated with ICIs and explore the potential interaction between them.
Structural insights into neurokinin 3 receptor activation by endogenous and analogue peptide agonists
Authors: Sun Wenjing , Yang Fan , Zhang Huanhuan , Yuan Qingning , Ling Shenglong , Wang Yuanxia , Lv Pei , Li Zelin , Luo Yifan , Liu Dongsheng , Yin Wanchao , Shi Pan , Xu H. Eric , Tian Changlin
Published: June 2023

Neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) is a tachykinin receptor essential for the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The endogenous peptide agonist neurokinin B (NKB) preferentially activates NK3R, while substance P (SP) binds preferentially to NK1R. In addition, the SP analogue senktide more potently activates NK3R than NKB and SP. However, the mechanisms of preferential binding of peptide and NK3R activation remain elusive. Herein, we determined the cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the NK3R–Gq complex bound to NKB, SP and senktide. The three NK3R–Gq/peptide complexes utilize a class of noncanonical receptor activation mechanisms. Combining the structural analysis and functional assay illustrated that the consensus C-termini of the three peptide agonists share a conserved binding mode to NK3R, while the divergent N-termini of the peptides confer the preferential binding of the agonist to NK3R. In addition, the specific interactions between the N-terminus of senktide and the N-terminus and extracellular loops (ECL2 and ECL3) of NK3R lead to the improved activation displayed by senktide compared to SP and NKB. These findings pave the way to understand tachykinin receptor subtype selectivity and provide ideas to rationally develop drugs targeting NK3R.
Full thermoelectric characterization of a single molecule
Authors: Gemma Andrea , Tabatabaei Fatemeh , Drechsler Ute , Zulji Anel , Dekkiche Hervé , Mosso Nico , Niehaus Thomas , Bryce Martin R. , Merabia Samy , Gotsmann Bernd
Published: June 2023

Molecules are predicted to be chemically tunable towards high thermoelectric efficiencies and they could outperform existing materials in the field of energy conversion. However, their capabilities at the more technologically relevant temperature of 300 K are yet to be demonstrated. A possible reason could be the lack of a comprehensive technique able to measure the thermal and (thermo)electrical properties, including the role of phonon conduction. Here, by combining the break junction technique with a suspended heat-flux sensor, we measured the total thermal and electrical conductance of a single molecule, at room temperature, together with its Seebeck coefficient. We used this method to extract the figure of merit zT of a tailor-made oligo(phenyleneethynylene)-9,10-anthracenyl molecule with dihydrobenzo[b]thiophene anchoring groups (DHBT-OPE3-An), bridged between gold electrodes. The result is in excellent agreement with predictions from density functional theory and molecular dynamics. This work represents the first measurement, within the same setup, of experimental zT of a single molecule at room temperature and opens new opportunities for the screening of several possible molecules in the light of future thermoelectric applications. The protocol is verified using SAc-OPE3, for which individual measurements for its transport properties exist in the literature.
Targeted cross-linker delivery for the in situ mapping of protein conformations and interactions in mitochondria
Authors: Chen Yuwan , Zhou Wen , Xia Yufei , Zhang Weijie , Zhao Qun , Li Xinwei , Gao Hang , Liang Zhen , Ma Guanghui , Yang Kaiguang , Zhang Lihua , Zhang Yukui
Published: June 2023

Current methods for intracellular protein analysis mostly require the separation of specific organelles or changes to the intracellular environment. However, the functions of proteins are determined by their native microenvironment as they usually form complexes with ions, nucleic acids, and other proteins. Here, we show a method for in situ cross-linking and analysis of mitochondrial proteins in living cells. By using the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles functionalized with dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide (DDAB) to deliver protein cross-linkers into mitochondria, we subsequently analyze the cross-linked proteins using mass spectrometry. With this method, we identify a total of 74 pairs of protein-protein interactions that do not exist in the STRING database. Interestingly, our data on mitochondrial respiratory chain proteins ( ~ 94%) are also consistent with the experimental or predicted structural analysis of these proteins. Thus, we provide a promising technology platform for in situ defining protein analysis in cellular organelles under their native microenvironment.
Multinuclear 1D and 2D NMR with 19F-Photo-CIDNP hyperpolarization in a microfluidic chip with untuned microcoil
Authors: Gomez M. Victoria , Baas Sander , Velders Aldrik H.
Published: June 2023

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a most powerful molecular characterization and quantification technique, yet two major persistent factors limit its more wide-spread applications: poor sensitivity, and intricate complex and expensive hardware required for sophisticated experiments. Here we show NMR with a single planar-spiral microcoil in an untuned circuit with hyperpolarization option and capability to execute complex experiments addressing simultaneously up to three different nuclides. A microfluidic NMR-chip in which the 25 nL detection volume can be efficiently illuminated with laser-diode light enhances the sensitivity by orders of magnitude via photochemically induced dynamic nuclear polarization (photo-CIDNP), allowing rapid detection of samples in the lower picomole range (normalized limit of detection at 600 MHz, nLODf,600, of 0.01 nmol Hz1/2). The chip is equipped with a single planar microcoil operating in an untuned circuit that allows different Larmor frequencies to be addressed simultaneously, permitting advanced hetero-, di- and trinuclear, 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Here we show NMR chips with photo-CIDNP and broadband capabilities addressing two of the major limiting factors of NMR, by enhancing sensitivity as well as reducing cost and hardware complexity; the performance is compared to state-of-the-art instruments.
An analytical framework for decoding cell type-specific genetic variation of gene regulation
Authors: Xiao Yanyu , Wang Jingjing , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Peijing , Li Jingyu , Zhou Yincong , Zhou Qing , Chen Ming , Sheng Xin , Liu Zhihong , Han Xiaoping , Guo Guoji
Published: June 2023

A deeper understanding of genetic regulation and functional mechanisms underlying genetic associations with complex traits and diseases is impeded by cellular heterogeneity and linkage disequilibrium. To address these limits, we introduce Huatuo, a framework to decode genetic variation of gene regulation at cell type and single-nucleotide resolutions by integrating deep-learning-based variant predictions with population-based association analyses. We apply Huatuo to generate a comprehensive cell type-specific genetic variation landscape across human tissues and further evaluate their potential roles in complex diseases and traits. Finally, we show that Huatuo’s inferences permit prioritizations of driver cell types associated with complex traits and diseases and allow for systematic insights into the mechanisms of phenotype-causal genetic variation.
Ultrafast imaging of polariton propagation and interactions
Authors: Xu Ding , Mandal Arkajit , Baxter James M. , Cheng Shan-Wen , Lee Inki , Su Haowen , Liu Song , Reichman David R. , Delor Milan
Published: June 2023

Semiconductor excitations can hybridize with cavity photons to form exciton-polaritons (EPs) with remarkable properties, including light-like energy flow combined with matter-like interactions. To fully harness these properties, EPs must retain ballistic, coherent transport despite matter-mediated interactions with lattice phonons. Here we develop a nonlinear momentum-resolved optical approach that directly images EPs in real space on femtosecond scales in a range of polaritonic architectures. We focus our analysis on EP propagation in layered halide perovskite microcavities. We reveal that EP–phonon interactions lead to a large renormalization of EP velocities at high excitonic fractions at room temperature. Despite these strong EP–phonon interactions, ballistic transport is maintained for up to half-exciton EPs, in agreement with quantum simulations of dynamic disorder shielding through light-matter hybridization. Above 50% excitonic character, rapid decoherence leads to diffusive transport. Our work provides a general framework to precisely balance EP coherence, velocity, and nonlinear interactions.
Controlled viscous fingering in volatile fluid towards spontaneous evolution of ordered 3D patterns
Authors: Rakshe Makrand A. , Gandhi Prasanna S.
Published: June 2023

Mimicking nature using artificial technologies has always been a quest/fascination of scientists and researchers of all eras. This paper characterizes viscous fingering instability-based, lithography-less, spontaneous, and scalable process towards fabrication of 3D patterns like nature-inspired honeycomb structures with ultra-high aspect ratio walls. Rich experimental characterization data on volatile polymer solution evolution in a uniport lifted Hele-Shaw cell (ULHSC) is represented on a non-dimensional phase plot. The plot with five orders of magnitude variation of non-dimensional numbers on each axis demarcates the regions of several newly observed phenomena: ‘No retention’, ‘Bridge breaking’, and ‘Wall formation’ with ‘stable’ and ‘unstable’ interface evolution. A new non-dimensional ratio of the velocity of evaporating static interface versus lifting velocity is proposed for the same. This phase plot along with physical insights into the phenomena observed, pave pathways for extending the method to multiport LHSC (MLHSC) to demonstrate multiwell honeycomb structures. The work thus establishes a solid foundation with valuable insights for scalable manufacturing of devices useful for application in biomedical and other domains.