bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Centromeric localization of αKNL2 and CENP-C proteins in plants depends on their centromere-targeting domain and DNA-binding regions
Authors: Yalagapati Surya Prakash , Ahmadli Ulkar , Sinha Aditya , Kalidass Manikandan , Dabravolski Siarhei , Zuo Sheng , Yadala Ramakrishna , Rutten Twan , Talbert Paul , Berr Alexandre , Lermontova Inna 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
In eukaryotes, accurate chromosome segregation during cell division relies on the centromeric histone H3 variant, CENH3. Our previous work identified KINETOCHORE NULL2 (αKNL2) as a plant CENH3 assembly factor, which contains a centromere-targeting motif, CENPC-k, analogous to the CENPC motif found in CENP-C. We also demonstrated that αKNL2 can bind DNA in vitro in a sequence-independent manner, without the involvement of its CENPC-k motif. In this study, we show that the CENPC-k and CENPC motifs alone are insufficient for centromere targeting in Nicotiana benthamiana and Arabidopsis thaliana. In silico analysis identified adjacent DNA-binding regions near the CENPC-k and CENPC motifs, suggesting their role in centromeric DNA interaction. We further demonstrated that protein fragments containing these motifs effectively target centromeres. Deletion of these DNA-binding domains reduced the centromeric localization of αKNL2-C, while fusing CENPC-k to the non-specific DNA-binding domain of histone-like nucleoid structuring protein from Escherichia coli successfully targeted it to centromeres. Our findings suggest that the centromeric targeting of αKNL2 and CENP-C proteins relies on the CENPC-k/CENPC motifs, and that their sequence-independent DNA-binding activity enhances their centromere anchoring. These insights into the mechanisms of αKNL2 and CENP-C targeting may facilitate the engineering of kinetochore structures by directing chromatin-modifying proteins to centromeres.
Towards next-generation DNA encryption via an expanded genetic system
Authors: Huang Xiaoluo , Hou Zhaohua , Qiang Wei , Wang Honglei , Wang Xiangxiang , Chen Xiaoxu , Hu Xin , Dai Junbiao , Li Lingjun , Zhao Guanghou 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Information encryption based on DNA data archiving, referred to as DNA encryption, has been advocated for decades and has become highly appealing owing to its remarkable advantages, e.g., high storage capacity, complexity and programmability. Early DNA encryption schemes primarily leveraged the natural four-letter genetic alphabet for data storage, with message-storing DNA sequences easily decrypted by routine DNA sequencing, which is consequently vulnerable to attack and faces severe security challenges. Here, an unnatural base pair (UBP), dNaM-dTPT3, was introduced into the message and/or index DNA sequences, which can be stored either in vitro or in vivo; this approach achieved the bioorthogonal encryption of “secret” messages, where message DNAs could be selectively, faithfully and readily retrieved or read exclusively in the presence of unnatural bases. Furthermore, a separative computational algorithm, named IM-Codec, was developed to encrypt the data into a “key sequence” (KS) and an “information sequence” (IS) through UBP insertion. Finally, a UBP-based multilevel DNA encryption approach was developed and validated for data encryption and decryption. The employment of the UBP expanded genetic system for data encryption should provide valuable solutions for archiving highly confidential data and thus usher in a new era of DNA encryption.
The cytokinin efflux transporter ABCC4 participates in Arabidopsis root system development
Authors: Uragami Takuya , Kiba Takatoshi , Kojima Mikiko , Takebayashi Yumiko , Tozawa Yuzuru , Hayashi Yuki , Kinoshita Toshinori , Sakakibara Hitoshi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The directional and sequential flow of cytokinin in plants is organized by a complex network of transporters. Genes involved in several aspects of cytokinin transport have been characterized; however, much of the elaborate system remains elusive. In this study, we used a transient expression system in tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) leaves to screen Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) transporter genes and isolated ATP-BINDING CASSETTE TRANSPORTER C4 (ABCC4). Validation through drug-induced expression in Arabidopsis and heterologous expression in budding yeast revealed that ABCC4 effluxes the active form of cytokinins. During the seedling stage, ABCC4 was highly expressed in roots, and its expression was upregulated in response to cytokinin application. Loss-of-function mutants of ABCC4 displayed enhanced primary root elongation, similar to mutants impaired in cytokinin biosynthesis or signaling, that was suppressed by exogenous trans-zeatin treatment. In contrast, overexpression of the gene led to suppression of root elongation. These results suggest that ABCC4 plays a role in the efflux of active cytokinin, thereby contributing to root growth regulation. Additionally, cytokinin-dependent enlargement of stomatal aperture was impaired in the loss-of-function and overexpression lines. Our findings contribute to unraveling the many complexities of cytokinin flow and enhance our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying root system development and stomatal opening in plants.
The associations among platelet count, mean platelet volume, and erectile dysfunction: an observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Peng Jingxuan , An Jinshun , Chen Yuxing , Zhou Jun , Xiang Boyu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
While previous studies have explored the associations and causalities among platelet count (PC), mean platelet volume (MPV), and erectile dysfunction (ED), further investigations are needed to clarify these relationships using advanced methodologies and analyzing specific populations.

Aim
To investigate the associations and causalities among PC, MPV, and ED using observational study and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods
A total of 114 patients with ED and 158 healthy control participants underwent a fasting blood draw to test for PC and MPV along with a comprehensive laboratory examination. The International Erectile Function Index was used to diagnose ED. Genetic variants of ED were obtained from individuals of European ancestry including 6175 ED cases and 217 630 controls. PC and MPV values were obtained from the UK Biobank and Investigating the effect of varying the whole blood inter-donation interval (INTERVAL) studies, encompassing a cohort of 173 480 individuals of European descent. Inverse-variant weighted (IVW), weighted median (WM), and MR-Egger methods were employed in MR analysis to explore the causal effects between variables to assess the impact of PC and MPV on ED. Various sensitivity analyses were employed to ensure the reliability of the results.

Outcomes
Both observational study results and MR results revealed that elevated PC levels were associated with a heightened risk of ED, whereas reductions in MPV were linked to a decreased risk.

Results
Logistic regression analysis indicated that an increased PC was associated with a greater risk of ED, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.14 (95% CI: 1.08, 1.22; P = .005), whereas decreased MPV was linked to an increased risk for ED, with an OR of 0.65 (95% CI: 0.48, 0.88; P = .003). Our MR analysis also revealed that genetically predicted PC was associated with a 1.09-fold increased risk of ED (95% CI: 1.01, 1.18; P = .016). Conversely, genetically predicted MPV was linked to a 0.93-fold increased risk of ED (95% CI: 0.88, 0.99; P = .014). The absence of heterogeneity (P &gt; .05) and pleiotropy (P &gt; .05) was confirmed through Cochran's Q tests and MR-Egger regression. Exclusion of individual single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) did not alter the robustness of the results.

Clinical implications
In clinical work, it is an important guide for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of ED.

Strengths and limitations
Our study employed a combination of observational studies and MR studies to strengthen our evidence. The observational study's sample size was relatively small, and MR was limited to individuals of European ancestry.

Conclusion
A high PC and a low MPV are associated with an increased risk of ED, highlighting the importance of addressing platelet parameters in ED management.
Race, homosexuality, and AIDS in London: the response of British AIDS voluntary organizations to Black gay men’s sexual health needs during the AIDS crisis (1980s–2000)
Authors: Cann Lucy 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Focusing on three specific organizations—The Terrence Higgins Trust (THT), Blackliners, and The NAZ Project (Naz)—this article explores the different ways in which voluntary organizations responded to Black gay men (BGM) in Britain during the AIDS crisis from the 1980s to 2000. Illustrating how the place of BGM in Britain at this time was multidimensional and often contradictory, the first section demonstrates how they required safer-sex messaging that took account of the heterogeneous ways in which they experienced the intersection of racism and homophobia. Situated in this context, the second section explores for the first time the well-documented work of THT as it applied to BGM. It shows how although the Trust increasingly recognized the need to reach BGM, white activists struggled to grapple with issues of race. It demonstrates how their work on race was shaped by the broader context of changes to voluntary organizations’ relationship to the state. In doing so, it makes clear the challenges of intersectional activism with communities of colour for white-dominated organizations and sheds light on how the HIV/AIDS voluntary sector responded to communities with particular needs. Taking Black AIDS organizations as its focus, the final section uncovers how Blackliners and Naz centred gay men in their work and reveals their nuanced and culturally sensitive initiatives. By tracing the contrasting ways in which these organizations navigated contested understandings of race in the final decades of the twentieth century, this article demonstrates the real-world consequences of the fragmentation of political conceptions of Blackness.
Combined Use of HArmonyCa and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: A Holistic Approach to Facial Rejuvenation
Authors: Kus Sadiye , Sarigul Guduk Sukran 
Published: December 2024

Background:
The multifactorial nature of aging necessitates a comprehensive assessment addressing contour, volume, and facial laxity, and a holistic treatment plan. We evaluated combined use of HArmonyCa with HA fillers to improve laxity and overall aesthetic outcomes. A detailed guide is also presented regarding facial shapes, special areas, and volume needs.

Methods:
This retrospective case series evaluates 10 patients’ facial laxities with Facial Laxity Rating Scale using 2-dimensional before and after photographs (posttreatment and 6-month mark). Overall improvement was assessed by the investigator and patients by comparing to baseline. Patient satisfaction was measured with a questionnaire.

Results:
The Facial Laxity Rating Scale scores (jowl and neck) were highest at baseline and lowest at 6-month mark. Facial laxity significantly improved over time for jowl (P < 0.001) and neck (P = 0.007). At the sixth month, facial laxity significantly improved compared with baseline both in jowl (P = 0.001) and neck (P = 0.011). Global Aesthetic Improvement Score evaluations improved significantly during the 6-month period (P < 0.001). Global Aesthetic Improvement Score was significantly higher at 6-month posttreatment compared with immediate posttreatment evaluation (P < 0.001). Patients were satisfied immediately after treatment and 6 months after. The satisfaction significantly improved at the sixth month compared with immediately after treatment (P = 0.033).

Conclusions:
A combined use of HArmonyCa and HA fillers improves laxity in the lower face and neck and enhances aesthetic outcomes with high patient satisfaction. Overall improvement and patient satisfaction are higher at the sixth month, which is attributable to biostimulation.
Ophthalmic Manifestations of Angiolymphoid Hyperplasia with Eosinophilia: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis of 86 Cases
Authors: Ahmed H. Shafeeq , Thrishulamurthy Chinmayee J. , Venkatesh Shwetha , Eshwaran Vidhya , James Thara Mary , Siddegowda Ramya Boregowda , Biligi Dayananda S 
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
This systematic review aims to consolidate evidence on ophthalmological manifestations of angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia, focusing on its presentation, diagnosis, and management.

Methods:
Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses-adherent systematic review was conducted across 3 databases from inception until September 2024. Case reports and series detailing angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia in ocular structures were included. Data on demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment outcomes were extracted and analyzed.

Results:
A total of 86 patients from 52 case reports/series were included. The median age was 41 years (IQR: 22–54), with a slight male predominance (51.16%, n = 44/86). The majority of patients (94.18%, n = 81/86) presented with unilateral eye involvement. The orbit was the most frequently involved location (45.35%, n = 39/86), followed by the upper eyelid (27.91%, n = 24/86). Clinical symptoms included proptosis (36.04%, n = 31/86), ptosis (26.74%, n = 23/86), and diplopia (11.67%, n = 10/86). Surgical excision was performed in 54.65% (n = 47/86) of cases, with biopsy done for diagnostic purposes in all patients. Recurrence occurred in 13.95% (n = 12/86), with risk factors including incomplete excision and prior angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia in the same or opposite eye. Steroid therapy was used in 18.6% (n = 16/86) but showed limited success. Newer treatment strategies with propranolol showed efficacy in recurrent cases, with no recurrence reported in patients receiving this therapy.

Conclusion:
Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia in ocular structures presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Surgical excision remains the mainstay of treatment, though recurrence is common. Therapeutic strategies with propranolol may offer alternative management options in recurrent cases.
Long-Term Outcomes of Neoadjuvant IntraArterial Chemotherapy for Locally Invasive Lacrimal Gland Carcinoma ex Pleomorphic Adenoma
Authors: Juratli Lena , Kim Jane , Juntipwong Sarinee , Elner Victor M. , McLean Scott , Chaudhary Neeraj , Worden Francis Paul , Demirci Hakan 
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
There is no current standard treatment regimen for carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) of the lacrimal gland. Neoadjuvant intraarterial cytoreductive chemotherapy (IACC) followed by multimodal therapy has achieved good locoregional control in adenoid cystic carcinoma of the lacrimal gland. We reviewed our experience with neoadjuvant IACC followed by multimodal therapy for CXPA of the lacrimal gland.

Methods:
Three patients with CXPA of the lacrimal gland treated with neoadjuvant ICAA therapy followed by multimodal therapy at the University of Michigan were retrospectively reviewed.

Results:
Three patients had stage T4cN0M0 CXPA of the lacrimal gland (American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th ed). The first patient underwent 2 cycles of neoadjuvant IACC followed by multimodal therapy (exenteration, chemoradiotherapy, and adjuvant systemic chemotherapy). At 10 years of follow-up, there was no local recurrence or systemic metastasis. The second patient underwent 1 cycle of neoadjuvant IACC with multimodal therapy (systemic chemotherapy, globe-sparing orbital surgery, and chemoradiotherapy). After 5-year follow-up, there was no local recurrence or systemic metastasis. The third patient underwent 2 cycles of neoadjuvant IACC followed by multimodal therapy (globe-sparing orbital surgery, chemoradiotherapy, and adjuvant systemic chemotherapy). After 2 years, he developed parotid and retromandibular metastasis and underwent total parotidectomy with total neck dissection followed by chemoradiation and systemic anti-androgen therapy. After 7 years, he did not have any local recurrence or systemic metastasis.

Conclusions:
Neoadjuvant IACC with multimodal therapies can achieve favorable outcomes with locoregional control and improve disease-specific survival in patients with locally invasive advanced-stage CXPA of the lacrimal gland.
Thyroid Eye Disease and Artificial Intelligence: A Comparative Study of ChatGPT-3.5, ChatGPT-4o, and Gemini in Patient Information Delivery
Authors: Bahir Daniel , Hartstein Morris , Zloto Ofira , Burkat Cat , Uddin Jimmy , Hamed Azzam Shirin 
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of 3 artificial intelligence language models—GPT-3.5, GPT-4o, and Gemini, in delivering patient-centered information about thyroid eye disease (TED). We evaluated their performance based on the accuracy and comprehensiveness of their responses to common patient inquiries regarding TED. The study did not assess the repeatability of artificial intelligence responses, focusing on single-session evaluations per model.

Methods:
Five experienced oculoplastic surgeons assessed the responses generated by the artificial intelligence models to 12 key questions frequently asked by TED patients. These questions addressed TED pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic testing, and treatment options. Each response was rated for correctness and reliability on a 7-point Likert scale, where 1 indicated incorrect or unreliable information and 7 indicated highly accurate and reliable information. Correctness referred to factual accuracy, while reliability assessed trustworthiness for patient use. The evaluations were anonymized, and the final scores were averaged across the surgeons to facilitate model comparisons.

Results:
GPT-3.5 emerged as the top performer, achieving an average correctness score of 5.75 and a reliability score of 5.68, excelling in delivering detailed information on complex topics such as TED treatment and surgical interventions. GPT-4o followed with scores of 5.32 for correctness and 5.25 for reliability, generally providing accurate but less detailed information. Gemini trailed with scores of 5.10 for correctness and 4.70 for reliability, often providing sufficient responses for simpler questions but lacking detail in complex areas like second-line immunosuppressive treatments. Statistical analysis using the Friedman test showed significant differences between models (p < 0.05) for key topics, with GPT-3.5 consistently leading.

Conclusions:
GPT-3.5 was the most effective model for delivering reliable and comprehensive patient information, particularly for complex treatment and surgical topics. GPT-4o provided reliable general information but lacked the necessary depth for specialized topics, while Gemini was suitable for addressing basic patient inquiries but insufficient for detailed medical information. This study highlights the role of artificial intelligence in patient education, suggesting that models like GPT-3.5 can be valuable tools for clinicians in enhancing patient understanding of TED.
“Don't Tell Nobody Nothing”: A Phenomenological Study on Fear of HIV Disclosure Among Older African Americans During Incarceration Living in Kentucky, USA
Authors: Tinman Jennifer S. , Nzama Nqobile , Patterson Jenifer , Harris Lesley M. , Kerr Jelani C. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The intersections of HIV with aging, incarceration, and racial disparities have been well studied, but little is known about the lived incarceration experiences of older African American persons living with HIV. This phenomenological study examined the fear of HIV disclosure among older African Americans living in Kentucky who have experienced incarceration. Based on the interviews analyzed, five main themes were identified: experiences with fear, experiences pertaining to confidentiality, experiences with disclosure, experiences with stigma, and the desire to be accepted. These themes demonstrate HIV disclosure fear within incarceration settings and the desire for support and services. Findings suggest that there should be more efforts to increase HIV knowledge and awareness within incarceration settings. Participants shared that having a support network alleviates isolation. We recommend that correctional settings implement policies to protect confidentiality violations and facilitate groups to help foster a more supportive environment for individuals living with HIV.
Examining Changes in Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Surgery Patterns Among Professional Baseball Players
Authors: Almonroeder Thomas , Jones Margaret T. , Fields Jennifer B. , Erickson Jacob L. , Taylor Wayne A. , Bittner Michael H. , Jagim Andrew R. 
Published: December 2024

Objective:
To retrospectively analyze publicly available elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) injury data for professional baseball players.

Design:
Descriptive epidemiology study.

Setting:
A retrospective analysis using an open-source database was performed. The database contained all known UCLR surgeries among Major League Baseball (MLB) and Minor League Baseball (MiLB) players.

Participants:
In total, 1801 professional male professional baseball pitchers (age: 24.5 ± 3.9 years) who have undergone UCLR between 1974 and 2024.

Main Outcome Measures:
The number of UCLR procedures each year.

Independent Variables:
Change-point analysis was used to identify changes in the number of UCLR surgeries over time among MLB and MiLB players. For MLB players, number of UCLR surgeries from 1974 to 2023 was analyzed, while for MiLB players, data starting from 1981 to 2024 were analyzed.

Results:
For MLB players, 3 change points were identified, occurring around 1989 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1988–1990), 2000 (95% CI, 2000–2000), and 2012 (95% CI, 2011–2017). For MiLB players, 3 change points were identified occurring around 2001 (95% CI, 2001–2001), 2009 (95% CI, 2008–2010), and 2013 (95% CI, 2013–2015).

Conclusions:
Overall, there has been a rise in the number of UCLR surgeries per year for the past 50 years in professional baseball, with distinct time points identified, representing increases in the number of UCLR surgeries each year. A higher number of UCLR surgeries are performed per year in the MiLB than in the MLB.
The MPCETT: Assessing the Safety and Utility of Exercise Tolerance Testing in Children With Concussion Ages 6 to 12
Authors: Heitzman Michael , Krystofiak Jason , Toto Diana , Norton Jennifer , Naematullah Mustafa , Asselstine Sydney , Rybak Katelan , Joshi Puja 
Published: December 2024

Objective:
Treadmill test protocols for concussion assessment have been validated for patients aged 13 years and older; however, no evidence-based guidelines exist for younger children. We designed and assessed the safety and utility of the Morahan Pediatric Concussion Exercise Tolerance Test (MPCETT) for assessing exercise tolerance in symptomatic children (SC) and recovered, asymptomatic children (AC) from 6 to 12 years of age.

Design:
Retrospective case series.

Setting:
Secondary care center.

Participants:
Children were diagnosed with concussion using consensus guidelines. At assessment, SC [n = 17; median (range) 10 (6–12) years; 18% female; 28 (13–50) days since injury] had persistent concussive symptoms, while AC [n = 24; 9 (7–12) years; 21% female; 21 (8–37) days since injury] required assessment for return to activity.

Interventions:
The MPCETT is a modified Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test for pediatric populations. The test was administered to establish exercise tolerance and was terminated for increased symptoms or self-reported exhaustion.

Main outcome measures:
Presence of adverse events and exercise intolerance.

Results:
The number of adverse events was 0 in both groups. Exercise intolerance occurred in 64.7% (95% CI, 38.3%–85.8%) of children within the SC group versus 12.5% (95% CI, 2.7%–32.4%) within the AC group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:
Pediatric exercise tolerance testing is safe and effective for assessing exercise intolerance in concussed children.