bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microstructures, crystallography and growth patterns of serpulid tubeworms (Class Polychaeta)
Authors: Grenier Christian , Berent Katarzyna , Rodríguez-Navarro Alejandro B. , Vinn Olev , Checa Antonio G 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Serpulid polychaetes are global marine worms that secrete tubes of calcium carbonate, in which they live. Despite extensive previous research on their microstructures, there are no crystallographic data and their biomineralization process remains unclear. Herein, we review the microstructures of seven different serpulid species and study their chemical composition, mineralogy and crystallography, using X-ray diffraction, Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, focused ion beam, electron backscatter diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. Generally, serpulid tubes have a high amount of organic matter (~ 7.5 wt. %), consisting of chitin and proteins, and the calcite is always present as medium to high magnesium calcite. We identified three main microstructures: granular-prismatic and lamello-fibrillar calcite, and fibrous aragonite. They all display an axial texture, which is stronger in the lamello-fibrillar calcite, with the c-axis aligned with the elongation axis of the crystals. Our findings demonstrate that only some instances of the granular-prismatic and the lamello-fibrillar calcite are biogenic (primary) microstructures. Conversely, other instances of the granular-prismatic calcite and the fibrous aragonite are a consequence of a recrystallization process (i.e. secondary). Substitution may occur on either primary or secondary calcitic microstructures (replaced by aragonite). Secondary microstructures retain remnants of the previously substituted microstructures, such as vestigial crystals or major growth increments. The high-Mg nature of the calcite favors the recrystallization processes. We hypothesize that the plywood arrangement of the lamello-fibrillar is obtained by the ordering of a chitin fibrillar precursor into a cholesteric liquid crystal phase. Subsequently, calcite would grow by oriented nucleation onto the organic fibrils.
Characterization of the AGR2-NPM3 axis uncovers the AGR2 involvement in PD-L1 regulation in colorectal cancer
Authors: Martisova Andrea , Faktor Jakub , Sosolikova Tereza , Klemesova Iveta , Kolarova Tamara , Holcakova Jitka , Hrstka Roman 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Despite extensive research, the molecular role of AGR2 in the progression and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been fully characterized. We used quantitative mass spectrometry (SWATH MS) to identify differentially expressed proteins in paired CRC cell models of the SW480 and SW620 cell lines in response to AGR2 protein level manipulation. Relying on the results from SWATH MS and subsequent immunochemical validation, we selected NMP3 as the top candidate protein associated with AGR2 in CRC tumour cells in our screen. RT‒qPCR and immunochemical analysis confirmed the involvement of AGR2-mediated regulation of NPM3 at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. Since PD-L1 is a constituent of the NPM3 regulatory axis, we aimed to correlate the changes in PD-L1 to the differential expression of AGR2 in our cell models. We found that AGR2 positively regulates PD-L1 levels in both SW480 and SW620 cell lines; additionally, several different CRC patient transcriptome cohorts confirmed the association of AGR2 with PD-L1. Our work reveals a new AGR2-NPM3 regulatory axis and the involvement of AGR2 in the regulation of PD-L1, which paves the way for the association of AGR2 with immune evasion in CRC cells.
The impact of Chlamydia infection on semen parameters and male fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Song Yuanzhi , Yu Chengjun , Weng Wuhong , Liu Maolin , Yan Hao , Sun Miao , Wu Shengde 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background and objective:
There has been no consensus regarding whether Chlamydia impacts on males’ reproductive function. This systematic review and meta-analysis compared semen parameters of Chlamydia (+) males with Chlamydia (-) males.
Method
The databases MEDLINE, Embase and PubMed were searched for relevant studies.
Results
Sixteen studies were included with more than 3000 patients. Chlamydia infection negatively impacted on sperm concentration (DM -3.33, 95% CI: -6.54 to -0.12; P = 0.04; I2 = 30%) and progressive motility (DM -1.62, 95% CI: -3.04 to -0.20; P = 0.03; I2 = 14%) in infertile males. Semen volume, sperm normal morphology, sperm vitality and semen pH may not be associated with Chlamydia infection in infertile males. Chlamydia infection may influence semen volume with combining with region factor (DM -0.87, 95% CI: -1.29 to -0.44; P < 0.0001; I2 = 33%).
Discussion and conclusions:
Chlamydia infection deteriorates infertile males’ reproductive function. These finds induce us to consider Chlamydia’s contribution to males’ reproductive dysfunction, and the treatment of Chlamydia whether protect males’ reproductive function should be studied in the future.
Transcription factor NFATc1 impairs the MDM2-p53 feedback loop to drive colorectal cancer growth
Authors: Xu Guangyao , Cao Tianyu , Zhang Jiandong , Yu Fei , Okotel Moses , Wu Mingyue , Zhang Suyang , Jin Haodong , Wan Yuting , Wu Shourong , Kasim Vivi , Huang Can 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents approximately 10% of all cancer cases and ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Existing clinical targeted therapies for CRC lack efficacy, highlighting the urgent need for identifying novel target sites.
Methods
Using the Kaplan-Meier Plotter analyzed the correlation between the expression level of NFATc1 and the prognosis/stage of CRC. Using Cell Viability Assay kit, flow cytometry, calculation of micronucleus and abnormal chromosome number, transwell system and Xenograft on nude mice, we detected the effects of NFATc1 on the cell viability, division, migration and tumor-forming ability of CRC cells. Using ChIP assay, site-directed mutagenesis and dual luciferase assay analyzed the mechanism of NFATc1 on MDM2-p53 loop. Tumor treatment with NIFE and oxaliplatin test the effect of NIFE on the anti-tumor effect of oxaliplatin.
Results
The expression level of NFATc1 in CRC tissues is significantly increased compared with that in adjacent tissues and NFATc1 expression level is closely correlated to the poor prognosis of CRC patients with advanced clinical stage. Silencing NFATc1 markedly decreased the viability, abnormal cell cycle, migration, and tumor-forming ability of CRC cells. Mechanistically, NFATc1 not only upregulate the expression of MDM2, but also disrupt the feedback activation of p53 on MDM2 by directly binding the p1 and p2 promoter regions of MDM2, thus blocking MDM2-p53 loop. Consequently, the high expression of NFATc1 leads to sustained MDM2 activation, and diminished p53 stability. Finally, nifedipine inhibited CRC tumors growth by inhibiting the NFATc1/MDM2 pathway, and significantly improve the anti-colorectal cancer effect of the clinical drug oxaliplatin.
Conclusions
NFATc1 impairs the MDM2-p53 feedback loop to drive colorectal cancer growth and Nifedipine inhibited CRC tumors growth by inhibiting the NFATc1/MDM2 pathway.
Accurate Prediction of Three-Dimensional Humanoid Avatars for
Anthropometric Modeling
Authors: Heymsfield Steven , McCarthy Cassidy , Wong Michael , Brown Jasmine , Ramirez Sophia , Yang Shengping , Bennett Jonathan , Shepherd John 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the hypothesis that anthropometric dimensions derived from a person’s manifold-regression predicted three-dimensional (3D) humanoid avatar are accurate when compared to their actual circumference, volume, and surface area measurements acquired with a ground-truth 3D optical imaging method. Avatars predicted using this approach, if accurate with respect to anthropometric dimensions, can serve multiple purposes including patient metabolic disease risk stratification in clinical settings.
Methods
Manifold regression 3D avatar prediction equations were developed on a sample of 570 adults who completed 3D optical scans, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and bioimpedance analysis (BIA) evaluations. A new prospective sample of 84 adults had ground-truth measurements of 6 body circumferences, 7 volumes, and 7 surface areas with a 20-camera 3D reference scanner. 3D humanoid avatars were generated on these participants with manifold regression including age, weight, height, DXA %fat, and BIA impedances as potential predictor variables. Ground-truth and predicted avatar anthropometric dimensions were quantified with the same software.
Results
Following exploratory studies, one manifold prediction model was moved forward for presentation that included age, weight, height, and %fat as covariates. Predicted and ground-truth avatars had similar visual appearances; correlations between predicted and ground-truth anthropometric estimates were all high (R2s, 0.75–0.99; all p < 0.001) with non-significant mean differences except for arm circumferences (%D ~ 5%; p < 0.05). Concordance correlation coefficients ranged from 0.80–0.99 and small but significant bias (p < 0.05 − 0.01) was present with Bland-Altman plots in 13 of 20 total anthropometric measurements. The mean waist to hip circumference ratio predicted by manifold regression was non-significantly different from ground-truth scanner measurements.
Conclusions
3D avatars predicted from demographic, physical, and other accessible characteristics can produce body representations with accurate anthropometric dimensions without a 3D scanner. Combining manifold regression algorithms into established body composition methods such as DXA, BIA, and other accessible methods provides new research and clinical opportunities.
A CT-based 3D radiomic signatures combined with clinical airway examinations model for evaluation of mask ventilation in patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgeries
Authors: Ren He , Qu Ling , Shi Weiwei , Li Ping , Wang Jiayi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of this study is to develop a model that incorporates clinical measurements with 3D radiomic signatures extracted from CT images of oral and maxillofacial surgery patients to evaluate mask ventilation.
Methods
A prospective cohort trial was conducted to enroll patients scheduled for oral and maxillofacial surgery. After obtaining informed consent, clinical measurements and head and neck CT images were collected. The anesthesiologist who managed the airway graded the mask ventilation, with difficult mask ventilation defined as mask ventilation provided without an oral airway or other adjuvant. For radiomics analysis, 3D airway segmentation was extracted and calculated 3D radiomic signatures and corresponding radiological features. Subsequently, features in the clinical measurements model and radiomic signatures model were determined using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) classifier. A mixed model was developed that incorporated both radiomic signature features and clinical measurement features.
Results
A total of 716 patients were enrolled in the study. The mixed model combined the five 3D radiomic signatures and six clinical measurements, and was found to have the highest predictive accuracy. In the validation group, the mixed group had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.851, which was higher than the AUC of 0.812 in the clinical measurements model and 0.827 in the radiomic signatures model.
Conclusions
This study developed a mixed model that combines 3D radiomic signatures and clinical measurements. Its application in clinical practice can assist in identifying patients at risk of experiencing difficult mask ventilation during oral and maxillofacial surgeries.
Dissecting Secondary Immunodeficiency: Identification of Primary Immunodeficiency within B-Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Authors: Palacios-Ortega María , Guerra-Galán Teresa , Jiménez-Huete Adolfo , García-Aznar José María , Pérez-Guzmán Marc , Mansilla-Ruiz Maria Dolores , Mendiola Ángela Villegas , López Cristina Pérez , Hornero Elsa Mayol , Rodriguez Alejandro Peixoto , Cortijo Ascensión Peña , Polo Marta , Morales Marta Mateo , Mandly Eduardo Anguita , Cárdenas Mª Cruz , Carrero Alejandra , García Carlos Jiménez , Bolaños Estefanía , Íñigo Belén , Medina Fiorella , Fuente-Muñoz Eduardo de la , Ochoa-Grullón Juliana , García-Solís Blanca , García-Carmona Yolanda , Fernández-Arquero Miguel , Benavente-Cuesta Celina , Diego Rebeca Pérez , Rider Nicholas , Sánchez-Ramón Silvia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Distinguishing between primary (PID) and secondary (SID) immunodeficiencies, particularly in relation to hematological B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders (B-CLPD), poses a major clinical challenge. We aimed to analyze and define the clinical and laboratory variables in SID to B-CLPD, identifying overlaps with late-onset PIDs, which could potentially improve diagnostic precision and prognostic assessment. We studied 37 clinical/laboratory variables in 151 patients with SID to B-CLPD. Patients were classified as “Suspected PID Group” when having recurrent-severe infections prior to the B-CLPD and/or hypogammaglobulinemia according to ESID criteria for PID. Bivariate association analyses showed significant statistical differences between “Suspected PID”- and “SID”-groups in 10 out of 37 variables analyzed, with “Suspected PID” showing higher frequencies of childhood recurrent-severe infections, family history of B-CLPD, significantly lower serum Free Light Chain (sFLC) and immunoglobulin concentrations, and lower total leukocyte, and switch-memory B-cell counts at baseline. Rpart machine learning algorithm was performed to potentially create a model to differenciate both groups. The model developed a decision tree with two major variables in order of relevance: sum κ + λ and history of severe-recurrent infections in childhood, with high sensitivity 89.5%, specificity 100%, and accuracy 91.8% for PID prediction. Identifying significant clinical and immunological variables can aid in the difficult task of recognizing late-onset PIDs among patients with SID to B-CLPD, emphasizing the value of a comprehensive immunological evaluation. The differences between “Suspected PID” and SID groups, highlights the need of early, tailored diagnostic and treatment strategies for personalized patient management and follow up.
Exploring Invasive Traits: Symphyotrichum squamatum versus Symphyotrichum ciliatum in Romania – An ESDM, Reproductive, and Morpho-Structural Approach
Authors: Cîșlariu Alina Georgiana , Dumitrașcu Mioara , Mihai Daniela Clara , Andronache Marius Nicu , Camen-Comănescu Petronela , Nagodă Eugenia , Sârbu Anca 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Symphyotrichum squamatum (Spreng.) G.L.Nesom, a South American species, was first introduced to Europe in 1905 and has since become invasive in numerous countries. In Romania, it was first documented in Bucharest in 2015 and it has since spread to various urban and peri-urban areas. This study aims to assess the invasive potential of Symphyotrichum squamatum in Romania through a comprehensive approach that includes modeling the species’ potential distribution, evaluating its reproductive success, and analyzing morpho-structural characteristics of its vegetative body. Additionally, we compared the species’ traits with those of another alien species from the same genus, Symphyotrichum ciliatum (Ledeb.) G.L.Nesom, which is currently invasive in Romania, thereby demonstrating its potential for invasiveness. The potential distribution of both Symphyotrichum squamatum and Symphyotrichum ciliatum in Romania was modeled using the R software, with the SSDM package and environmental variables corresponding to the species’ ecological preferences, such as climatic variables, local topographic, pedological factors, and anthropogenic impact. Reproductive success of Symphyotrichum squamatum was assessed through germination tests on individuals from different populations. The modeling results suggested that Symphyotrichum squamatum’ distribution in Romania is largely influenced by the anthropogenic impact index and soil classes. Furthermore, the high percentages obtained from germination tests, along with the structural characteristics which highlighted its ability to adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions, indicate that Symphyotrichum squamatum is a species with expansion potential if it establishes under favorable environmental conditions, primarily represented by wetlands along watercourses and marshy areas.
Effect of station selection on VLBI-to-GNSS orientation transfer using space-ties onboard a next generation Galileo satellite
Authors: Sert Hakan , Hugentobler Urs , Karatekin Özgür , Dehant Veronique 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Each geodetic technique realizes its specific reference frame and traditionally these independent frames are linked through the local-ties at collocation sites. Space ties onboard of a spacecraft can be also used to connect different frames as another complementary approach. Observations of a broadband VLBI transmitter (VT) onboard Galileo satellite by a VLBI ground station network can create such a link between GNSS and VLBI reference frames. In this study, we simulate observations of a VT onboard Galileo satellites and investigate the effect of VT observing network/station selection on the rotation transformation parameters between the VLBI and GNSS frames. We find that the rotation transformation uncertainties can be inflated by more than 25% when a geometrically critical station is removed from the network of 21 ground stations. We additionally analyze various VLBI networks consisting of 8-9 ground stations dedicated to IVS R1/R4 sessions. We report that by adding individual stations into some networks uncertainties are reduced by up to a factor of three in daily solutions and up to 50% for all orientation components when combining solutions covering a Galileo repeat cycle of ten days.
Pathogenetic aspects of the development of autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Stupak V. P. , Keshishyan E. S. , Garina S. V. 
Published: July 2024

There is currently an increase in the number of patients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders due to the broad interpretation of the criteria for this diagnosis and an actual increase in the number of children with impaired communication and behavioral functions. There are different in their cause, but clinically similar conditions that are attributed to this group. However, the difference in pathogenetic causes may require different approaches to treatment — selection of pharmacological and pedagogical methods of therapy and rehabilitation of these clinical conditions.In this article, we plan to discuss possible causes of idiopathic (primary) autism spectrum disorders complex, i.e., when there is no indication that the child has conditions or diseases that may lead to the autism spectrum disorders symptom complex (syndromal autism): perinatal disorders, microanomalies of brain structures, sluggish infections (e.g., CMV infection with smoldering encephalitis), and autoimmune brain damage, chromosomal and genetic diseases with an identified gene with pathogenic significance. When discussing autism spectrum disorders or autism without the above conditions, a genetic model is also assumed, but with the inclusion of a large number of candidate genes, without specifying a clear contribution of each gene to pathogenicity.Numerous studies show that the mechanism of these disorders in autochthonous disease is related to the disruption of synaptic transmission, changes in the ontogenesis of the nervous system in the context of combinations of genetic disorders, as well as the resulting mechanisms of autoinflammatory changes in the structures of the central nervous system. Changes in the permeability of the hematoencephalic barrier, inflammation and disturbance of the glymphatic system are also considered as probable mechanisms of autism spectrum disorders pathophysiology. As a result of impaired synaptogenesis, differentiation and neurogenesis, the resulting excitotoxicity of neurotransmitters and their metabolites, reliably contribute to the formation of the maintenance of this process.
Prevalence and risk factors for dilatation of sinus of Valsalva in boys with X-linked Alport syndrome
Authors: Aksenova M. E. , Tutelman K. M. , Anikalchuk L. L. 
Published: July 2024

X-linked Alport syndrome is multisystem disease caused by mutation in COL4A5. Aortic dilatation described in X-linked Alport syndrome is considered a specific manifestation of the disease.Purpose. To define prevalence and risk factors for aortic dilatation in boys with X-linked Alport syndrome.Methods. Retrospective cross-section single center study included boys with X-linked Alport syndrome (n=67, age 10.2±4.6), comparison group consisted of boys with congenital urinary tract abnormalities (n=20, age12.2±4.8). All patients underwent on clinical-laboratory examination and echocardiography. Aorta was measured in the parasternal long-axis view at level of the sinus of Valsalva, aortic dilatation was determined by z-score >2 for BSA.Results. The prevalence of sinus of Valsalva dilatation did not differ between two groups (0.1 vs 0.15; p=0.47). The sinus of Valsalva dilatation was associated with body mass index (p=0.019), left ventricular diastolic diameter (p=0.01) and left ventricular mass (p=0.01) in children with congenital urinary tract abnormalities, with body mass index (p=0.02) and left ventricular diastolic diameter (p=0.03) in boys with Alport syndrome. No statistically significant effect of blood pressure level, proteinuria, eGFR and type of COL4A5 mutation on aortic dilatation has been demonstrated.Conclusion. The prevalence of aortic dilatation in boys with X-linked Alport syndrome is higher than in general population, but comparable to children with congenital urinary tract abnormalities. The body mass index and left ventricular diastolic diameter were associated with aortic dilatation in Alport syndrome males. We did not show the relationship between blood pressure load, proteinuria, eGFR and aortic dilatation. Study limitations: small sample size, prevalence of young patients with chronic kidney diseases stage 1–2 and missense mutations in the COL4A5 gene.