bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nanopore Direct RNA Sequencing Reveals Virus-Induced Changes in the Transcriptional Landscape in Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Wang Dongyu , Booth J. Leland , Wu Wenxin , Kiger Nicholas , Lettow Matthew , Bates Averi , Pan Chongle , Metcalf Jordan , Schroeder Susan J. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractDirect RNA nanopore sequencing reveals changes in gene expression, polyadenylation, splicing, m6A methylation, and pseudouridylation in response to influenza virus exposure in primary human bronchial epithelial cells. This study focuses on the epitranscriptomic profile of genes in the host immune response. In addition to polyadenylated noncoding RNA, we purified and sequenced nonpolyadenylated noncoding RNA and observed changes in expression, N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A), and pseudouridylation (Ψ) in these novel RNA. Two recently discovered lincRNA with roles in immune response,ChaserrandLEADR, became highly methylated in response to influenza exposure. Several H/ACA type snoRNAs that guide pseudouridylation are decreased in expression in response to influenza, and there is a corresponding decrease in the pseudouridylation of two novel lncRNA. Thus, novel epitranscriptomic changes revealed by direct RNA sequencing with nanopore technology provides unique insights into the host epitranscriptomic changes in epithelial gene networks that respond to influenza virus infection.
Natural variation in seed coat color in lettuce and wildLactucaspecies
Authors: Mehrem Sarah L. , Van den Ackerveken Guido , Snoek Basten L. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractSeed coat color is a well described trait in lettuce (Lactuca sativa), varying from black to pale white pigmentation. In this study, we delve into seed coat color variation of several species within theLactucagenus, encompassingL. sativaand 15 wild varieties, offering broader insights into the diversity of this trait. To capture seed coat color quantitatively, we use grey pixel values from publicly available images, enabling us to measure seed coat color as a continuous trait across the genus. Darker seed coats predominate within theLactucagenus, withL. sativadisplaying a distinctive bimodal distribution of black and white seed coats.Lactuca virosaexhibits the darkest seed coat coloration and less variation, whileLactuca salignaandLactuca serrioladisplay lighter shades and greater variability. To identify the polymorphic loci underlying the observed variation we performed GWAS on seed coat color in bothL. sativaandL. serriola. ForL. sativa, we confirmed the one known major QTL linked to black and white seed coat color, which we reproduce in two independent, published genotype collections (n=129, n=138). Within the same locus, we identify additional candidate genes associated with seed coat color. ForL. serriola, GWAS yielded several minor QTLs linked to seed coat color, harboring candidate genes predicted to be part of the anthocyanin pathway. These findings highlight the phenotypic diversity present within the broaderLactucagenus and provide insights into the genetic mechanisms governing seed coat coloration in both cultivated lettuce and its wild relatives.
TOMM40 regulates hepatocellular and plasma lipid metabolism via an LXR-dependent pathway
Authors: Yang Neil V , Chao Justin Y , Garton Kelly A , Tran Tommy , King Sarah , Orr Joseph , Oei Jacob H , Crawford Alexandra , Kang Misun , Zalpuri Reena , Jorgens Danielle , Konchadi Pranav , Chorba John S , Theusch Elizabeth , Krauss Ronald M 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACTThe gene encoding TOMM40 (Transporter of Outer Mitochondrial Membrane 40) is adjacent to that encoding APOE, which has a central role in lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. Human genetic variants nearAPOEandTOMM40are strongly associated with plasma lipid levels, but a specific role for TOMM40 in lipid metabolism has not been established. Investigating this, we show that suppression ofTOMM40in human hepatoma cells upregulates expression ofAPOEandLDLRin part via activation of LXRB (NR1H2) by oxysterols, with consequent increased uptake of VLDL and LDL. This is in part due to disruption of mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contact sites, with resulting accrual of reactive oxygen species and non-enzymatically derived oxysterols. WithTOMM40knockdown, cellular triglyceride and lipid droplet content are increased, effects attributable in part to receptor-mediated VLDL uptake, since lipid staining is significantly reduced by concomitant suppression of eitherLDLRorAPOE. In contrast, cellular cholesterol content is reduced due to LXRB-mediated upregulation of the ABCA1 transporter as well as increased production and secretion of oxysterol-derived cholic acid. Consistent with the findings in hepatoma cells,in vivoknockdown ofTOMM40in mice results in significant reductions of plasma triglyceride and cholesterol concentrations, reduced hepatic cholesterol and increased triglyceride content, and accumulation of lipid droplets leading to development of steatosis. These findings demonstrate a role for TOMM40 in regulating hepatic lipid and plasma lipoprotein levels and identify mechanisms linking mitochondrial function with lipid metabolism.GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Cyanobacteria form a procarboxysome-like structure in response to high CO2
Authors: Huffine Clair A. , Fontana Catherine , Avramov Anton , Sempeck Colin , Cameron Jeffrey C. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractFixing 25% of CO2globally, cyanobacteria are integral to climate change efforts. The cyanobacterial CO2concentrating mechanism (CCM) features the carboxysome, a bacterial microcompartment which houses their CO2fixing machinery. The proteinaceous shell of the carboxysome restricts diffusion of CO2, both inward and outward. While necessary for CCM function in air (0.04% CO2), when grown in high CO2levels (3% CO2) representative of early earth, the shell would harmfully limit CO2fixation. To understand how carboxysomes change form and function in response to increased CO2conditions, we used a Grx1-roGFP2 redox sensor and single cell timelapse fluorescence microscopy to track subcellular redox states ofSynechococcussp. PCC 7002 grown in air or 3% CO2. Comparing different levels of compartmentalization, we targeted the cytosol, a shell-less carboxysomal assembly intermediate called the procarboxysome, and the carboxysome. The carboxysome redox state was dynamic and, under 3% CO2, procarboxysome-like structures formed and mirrored cytosolic redox states, indicating that a more permeable shell architecture may be favorable when [CO2] is high. This work represents a step in understanding how cyanobacteria respond to changing CO2concentrations and the selective forces driving carboxysome evolution.
Identification of key residues inBacillus subtilisgerminant receptor protein GerAB involved in spore water uptake
Authors: Chen Longjiao , Beekhuis Houdijn , van den Bosch Christina , Vinay Gianni , Korza George , Vreede Jocelyne , Setlow Peter , Brul Stanley 
Published: June 2024

AbstractSome species in the Bacillales andClostridialesbacterial orders form spores in unfavorable environments. These spores are metabolically dormant, and resistant to harsh conditions. However, upon triggering by a variety of small molecule nutrients, termed germinants, spores may germinate, increasing their core water content from 25%-45% in spores to ~80% in growing cells, thus restoring rapid metabolism and leading to outgrowth and then vegetative growth. Recent structural modeling and mutagenesis studies showed that a subunit of the prototypicalBacillus subtilisspore germinant receptor (GR) GerA, the integral inner membrane (IM) protein GerAB, is involved in spore germination initiated by L-alanine. Notably, a previous molecular simulation study showed the formation of a putative water channel in GerAB. In the current study we employed Steered Molecular Dynamics (SMD) simulations to force a single water molecule through GerAB. Examining the simulations revealed three key amino acid residues, Y97, L199 and F342, that interfere with water passage. These three residues were altered to alanine, followed by assays of germination. In the Y97A, L199A, F342A single mutants and the Y97A, L199A and F342A triple mutant (triA), all four types of mutant spores barely responded to L-alanine, while wild type spores germinated almost 100% under the same conditions. Y97A spores expressed the GerAA protein as determined by western blot analysis, corroborating the presence of the GerA GR in this mutant. However, for the other three mutants, the existence of GerA receptor in the spore could not be confirmed. In conclusion, Y97 plays a key role in GerAB mediated germination and suggests that GerAB indeed facilitates water passage and further indicating that water passage through GerAB is a crucial event inB. subtilisspore germination.
EspH utilizes phosphoinositide and Rab binding domains to interact with plasma membrane infection sites and Rab GTPases
Authors: Nandi Ipsita , Ramachandran Rachana Pattani , Shalev Deborah E. , Schneidman-Duhovny Dina , Shtuhin-Rahav Raisa , Melamed-Book Naomi , Rosenshine Ilan , Aroeti Benjamin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractEnteropathogenicE. coli(EPEC) is a Gram-negative bacterial pathogen that causes persistent diarrhea. Upon attachment to the apical plasma membrane of the intestinal epithelium, the pathogen translocates virulent proteins called effectors into the infected cells. These effectors hijack numerous host processes for the pathogen’s benefit. Therefore, studying the mechanisms underlying their action is crucial for a better understanding of the disease. We show that translocated EspH interacts with multiple host Rab GTPases. AlphaFold predictions and site-directed mutagenesis identified glutamic acid and lysine at positions 37 and 41 as Rab interacting residues. Mutating these sites abolished the EspH ability to inhibit the Akt and mTORC1 signaling, lysosomal exocytosis, and bacterial invasion. Knocking out the endogenous Rab8a gene expression highlighted the involvement of Rab8a in Akt/mTORC1 signaling and lysosomal exocytosis. A phosphoinositide binding domain with a critical tyrosine was identified in EspH. Mutating the tyrosine abolished the localization of EspH at infection sites and its capacity to interact with Rabs. Our data suggest novel EspH-dependent mechanisms that elicit immune signaling and membrane trafficking during EPEC infection.
The mediating role of employer attractiveness and prestige on the relationship between green recruitment and job pursuit intention in Ghana
Authors: Damoah Obi Berko Obeng 
Published: June 2024

PurposeWhilst organisations' responses to implementing sustainability principles have been influenced significantly by external pressures (e.g. competitor action, regulator influences), researchers are turning attention to the influence of internal stakeholders (staff members) and external stakeholders (e.g. prospective applicants) on an organisation's sustainability motivations. This study aimed to assess the relationship between green recruitment practices and job pursuit intention and the role of organisational attractiveness and prestige among prospective employees.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses the cross-sectional survey; a sample of 215 students are used to validate the five (5) hypotheses developed from the literature review. To achieve a more plausible regression parameter estimates, the structural equation modelling is the main analytical technique used to analyse the hypotheses.FindingsThe results show that there is a positive effect of green recruitment on organisational attractiveness, organisational prestige, and job pursuit intention. Similarly, organisational attractiveness and organisational prestige serially mediated the relationship between green recruitment and job pursuit intentions.Originality/valueThis study is an addition to the literature on the soft green human resource management practices, specifically green recruitment from the perspective of potential job applicants. In addition, the study uses data from a new and under-researched geographical context, Ghana to contribute and shed light on the topic. Critically, research on sustainable human resource management has been shown to be very limited from the Africa's context. Consequently, the present evidence from the Ghana's perspective responds to the call.
Impact of environmental awareness and knowledge on purchase intention of an eco-friendly hotel: mediating role of habits and attitudes
Authors: Tavitiyaman Pimtong , Zhang Xinyan , Chan Hiu Man 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis study explored the impact of environmental awareness, knowledge, habits, attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control on purchase intention towards an eco-friendly hotel from a hotel guest perspective. The mediating role of habits and attitudes in the relationships was also examined.Design/methodology/approachAnchored on an extended theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model, the study employed a quantitative method through a self-administered questionnaire. Convenience and snowball sampling approaches were used to select 241 respondents. Structural equation modelling was adopted to examine relationships between constructs.FindingsResults showed that hotel guests’ perceived environmental awareness positively influences their habits and that environmental knowledge positively affects their attitudes. Hotel guests’ habits, attitudes and perceived behavioural control also influence their purchase intention towards an eco-friendly hotel. In addition, habits and attitudes have a mediating effect on the relationship between environmental awareness and knowledge and purchase intention.Practical implicationsHotel operators should implement marketing campaigns to arouse hotel guests’ eco-friendly habits and attitudes by promoting environmental awareness and knowledge such as energy saving initiatives and green activities, which can increase their purchase intention.Originality/valueThe findings extend the current hospitality and tourism literature advocating for the mediating role of habits and attitudes with the consequence of environmental awareness and knowledge about purchase intention. Moreover, this study increases the original TPB’s predictive power in the context of eco-friendly hotels by adding complementary constructs.
Copper resistance in the cold: Genome analysis and characterisation of a PIB‐1 ATPase in Bizionia argentinensis
Authors: Burgardt Noelia I. , Melian Noelia A. , González Flecha F. Luis 
Published: June 2024

AbstractCopper homeostasis is a fundamental process in organisms, characterised by unique pathways that have evolved to meet specific needs while preserving core resistance mechanisms. While these systems are well‐documented in model bacteria, information on copper resistance in species adapted to cold environments is scarce. This study investigates the potential genes related to copper homeostasis in the genome of Bizionia argentinensis (JUB59‐T), a psychrotolerant bacterium isolated from Antarctic seawater. We identified several genes encoding proteins analogous to those crucial for copper homeostasis, including three sequences of copper‐transport P1B‐type ATPases. One of these, referred to as BaCopA1, was chosen for cloning and expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. BaCopA1 was successfully integrated into yeast membranes and subsequently extracted with detergent. The purified BaCopA1 demonstrated the ability to catalyse ATP hydrolysis at low temperatures. Structural models of various BaCopA1 conformations were generated and compared with mesophilic and thermophilic homologous structures. The significant conservation of critical residues and structural similarity among these proteins suggest a shared reaction mechanism for copper transport. This study is the first to report a psychrotolerant P1B‐ATPase that has been expressed and purified in a functional form.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing elucidated the landscape of breast cancer brain metastases and identified ILF2 as a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Xie Jindong , Yang Anli , Liu Qianwen , Deng Xinpei , Lv Guangzhao , Ou Xueqi , Zheng Shaoquan , Situ Min‐Yi , Yu Yang , Liang Jie‐Ying , Zou Yutian , Tang Hailin , Zhao Zijin , Lin Fuhua , Liu Wei , Xiao Weikai 
Published: June 2024

AbstractDistant metastasis remains the primary cause of morbidity in patients with breast cancer. Hence, the development of more efficacious strategies and the exploration of potential targets for patients with metastatic breast cancer are urgently needed. The data of six patients with breast cancer brain metastases (BCBrM) from two centres were collected, and a comprehensive landscape of the entire tumour ecosystem was generated through the utilisation of single‐cell RNA sequencing. We utilised the Monocle2 and CellChat algorithms to investigate the interrelationships among each subcluster. In addition, multiple signatures were collected to evaluate key components of the subclusters through multi‐omics methodologies. Finally, we elucidated common expression programs of malignant cells, and experiments were conducted in vitro and in vivo to determine the functions of interleukin enhancer‐binding factor 2 (ILF2), which is a key gene in the metastasis module, in BCBrM progression. We found that subclusters in each major cell type exhibited diverse characteristics. Besides, our study indicated that ILF2 was specifically associated with BCBrM, and experimental validations further demonstrated that ILF2 deficiency hindered BCBrM progression. Our study offers novel perspectives on the heterogeneity of BCBrM and suggests that ILF2 could serve as a promising biomarker or therapeutic target for BCBrM.
An experimental test of intra‐ and inter‐specific competition between invasive western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) and native plains topminnow (Fundulus sciadicus)
Authors: Lewis Samuel T. , Salerno Jonathan D. , Sanderson John S. , Kanno Yoichiro 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Invasive species are a major threat to freshwater conservation. The coexistence of species in invaded habitats depends on the relative strength of intra‐ versus inter‐specific competition, where inter‐specific competition from invasive to native species is often stronger than intra‐specific competition, jeopardising their coexistence.

In this study, we conducted a laboratory experiment to test for the relative strength of interference competition between native plains topminnow (Fundulus sciadicus) and invasive western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) at three experimental temperatures. Intra‐ and inter‐specific competition was quantified using an isodar approach, which assumes that animals are ideally distributed to maximise their fitness. Thus, their distributions measure the quality and quantity of habitat patches. This was supplemented by behavioural observations of intra‐ and inter‐specific competition.

Contrary to our predictions, we did not find evidence that competition was asymmetrical from the invasive mosquitofish to the native plains topminnow. Instead, more individuals occupied their shared preferred habitat (a slow‐moving pool) in sympatry compared to allopatry, and the isodar analysis demonstrated that intra‐specific interference competition was significantly stronger than inter‐specific competition at all temperature levels. Behavioural observations corroborated this analysis of habitat selection that aggression was most frequent among plains topminnow in sympatry.

This study shows that the widely perceived aggression of adults might not be the only key mechanism of global invasion success by mosquitofish. Other ecological traits, such as rapid reproduction, environmental tolerance, and interactions with early life stages of native species, might also be responsible for their invasion success. Additional investigations are warranted to determine whether their invasions directly affect native species or they invade degraded ecosystems opportunistically.
Epidermolysis Bullosa in Spain: A Qualitative Analysis of Its Social Impact on Families With Diagnosed Minors
Authors: Martínez‐Ripoll Juan Manuel , García‐Domingo Marta , de la Fuente Robles Yolanda María 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundEpidermolysis bullosa (EB) comprises a group of rare types of genodermatoses characterized by extreme mucocutaneous fragility, leading to blistering and/or erosions, even with minimal trauma. Continuous care through wound management is an integral part of daily life for the families and individuals affected. The aim of this study was to assess the social reality and impacts on families of having minor members diagnosed with EB in Spain.MethodsA qualitative methodology was employed, utilizing four focus groups entailing participation by 24 parents (19 mothers and five fathers) of minors diagnosed with EB in Spain.ResultsNegative impacts on the family nucleus were evident in four priority areas of analysis: sociorelational, economic‐labour, physical and psychoemotional, with significant differences observed based on the severity of the symptoms.ConclusionImpacts on the family nucleus are noticeable from birth, influencing all other daily life routines and complicating family planning and organization. There is an imperative need to enhance the availability of sociohealth resources and to adopt an interdisciplinary approach to address their biopsychosocial needs.Patient or Public ContributionThe active participation of relatives of minors diagnosed with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is invaluable to sociohealth professionals, legislators and researchers. A team member conducts their professional activities at DEBRA España (national patient association dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with EB and their families), actively engaging in all study phases.
Corrosion behavior of TiN monolayer and CrN/TiN multilayer coatings: Impact of immersion time and saline solution type
Authors: Fazel Zahra Andalibi , Elmkhah Hassan , Molaei Maryam , Riahi‐Noori Nastaran , Fattah‐alhosseini Arash 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe corrosion behavior of the TiN monolayer and CrN/TiN multilayer coatings deposited via cathodic arc evaporation physical vapor deposition (CAE‐PVD) on the Ti–6Al–4V substrates were evaluated in Ringer's and Hank's physiological saline electrolytes. XRD (x‐ray diffractometry) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis were used to characterize the coatings. The corrosion behavior of coatings was assessed by impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization techniques. The results showed that the corrosion resistance of coatings was increased in the order of TiN‐Ringer's < TiN‐Hank's < CrN/TiN‐Ringer's < CrN/TiN‐Hank's. Therefore, it can be concluded that the CrN/TiN coating, due to having a large number of interfaces and a smoother surface with fewer macroparticles and pinholes, is more efficient in raising the corrosion resistance properties of titanium than TiN monolayer coating. Moreover, it was observed that Ringer's solution is a more severe environment than Hank's solution. Both coatings, because of the precipitation of a protective corrosion products layer on their surface, showed an enhancement in corrosion resistance with increasing the immersion time from 1 to 14 days in Hank's. The results suggest TiN monolayer and CrN/TiN multilayer coatings as promising candidates for biomedical applications.