bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel mechanisms of strigolactone-induced DWARF14 degradation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Sánchez Martín-Fontecha Elena , Cardinale Francesca , Bürger Marco , Prandi Cristina , Cubas Pilar 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
In angiosperms, the strigolactone receptor is the α/β hydrolase DWARF14 (D14) that, upon strigolactone binding, undergoes conformational changes, triggers strigolactone-dependent responses, and hydrolyses strigolactones. Strigolactone signalling involves the formation of a complex between strigolactone-bound D14, the E3-ubiquitin ligase SCFMAX2, and the transcriptional corepressors SMXL6/7/8, which become ubiquitinated and degraded by the proteasome. Strigolactone also destabilizes the D14 receptor. The current model proposes that D14 degradation occurs after ubiquitination of the SMXLs via SCFMAX2 and proteasomal degradation. Using fluorescence and luminescence assays on transgenic lines expressing D14 fused to GREEN FLUORESCENT PROTEIN or LUCIFERASE, we showed that strigolactone-induced D14 degradation may also occur independently of SCFMAX2 and/or SMXL6/7/8 through a proteasome-independent mechanism. Furthermore, strigolactone hydrolysis was not essential for triggering either D14 or SMXL7 degradation. The activity of mutant D14 proteins predicted to be non-functional for strigolactone signalling was also examined, and their capability to bind strigolactones in vitro was studied using differential scanning fluorimetry. Finally, we found that under certain conditions, the efficiency of D14 degradation was not aligned with that of SMXL7 degradation. These findings indicate a more complex regulatory mechanism governing D14 degradation than previously anticipated and provide novel insights into the dynamics of strigolactone signalling in Arabidopsis.
Atomic-Scale Characterization of Dilute Dopants in Topological Insulators via STEM–EDS Using Registration and Cell Averaging Techniques
Authors: Kang Min-Chul , Islam Farhan , Yan Jiaqiang , Vaknin David , McQueeney Robert J , Lu Ping , Zhou Lin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Magnetic dopants in three-dimensional topological insulators (TIs) offer a promising avenue for realizing the quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE) without the necessity for an external magnetic field. Understanding the relationship between site occupancy of magnetic dopant elements and their effect on macroscopic property is crucial for controlling the QAHE. By combining atomic-scale energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) maps obtained by aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (AC-STEM) and novel data processing methodologies, including semi-automatic lattice averaging and frame registration, we have determined the substitutional sites of Mn atoms within the 1.2% Mn-doped Sb2Te3 crystal. More importantly, the methodology developed in this study extends beyond Mn-doped Sb2Te3 to other quantum materials, traditional semiconductors, and even electron irradiation sensitive materials.
Heterochromatin protein 1 alpha (HP1α) undergoes a monomer to dimer transition that opens and compacts live cell genome architecture
Authors: Lou Jieqiong , Deng Qiji , Zhang Xiaomeng , Bell Charles C , Das Andrew B , Bediaga Naiara G , Zlatic Courtney O , Johanson Timothy M , Allan Rhys S , Griffin Michael D W , Paradkar PrasadN , Harvey Kieran F , Dawson Mark A , Hinde Elizabeth 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Our understanding of heterochromatin nanostructure and its capacity to mediate gene silencing in a living cell has been prevented by the diffraction limit of optical microscopy. Thus, here to overcome this technical hurdle, and directly measure the nucleosome arrangement that underpins this dense chromatin state, we coupled fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between histones core to the nucleosome, with molecular editing of heterochromatin protein 1 alpha (HP1α). Intriguingly, this super-resolved readout of nanoscale chromatin structure, alongside fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy (FFS) and FLIM-FRET analysis of HP1α protein-protein interaction, revealed nucleosome arrangement to be differentially regulated by HP1α oligomeric state. Specifically, we found HP1α monomers to impart a previously undescribed global nucleosome spacing throughout genome architecture that is mediated by trimethylation on lysine 9 of histone H3 (H3K9me3) and locally reduced upon HP1α dimerisation. Collectively, these results demonstrate HP1α to impart a dual action on chromatin that increases the dynamic range of nucleosome proximity. We anticipate that this finding will have important implications for our understanding of how live cell heterochromatin structure regulates genome function.
Kidney thrombotic microangiopathy with concurrent monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: Tan Meng , Jia Changhao , Liu Xiaotian , Wu Daoxu , Yu Xiaojuan , Zhao Minghui , Tan Ying 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Background
The concurrence of monoclonal gammopathy and thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) has been suggested in a few studies. However, the complement activation was not fully studied in previous cases. In this study, we aimed to determine the complement activation in these group of patients and the association with clinical, laboratory and pathological features.

Methods
Between 2007 and 2020, 20 patients with biopsy-proven renal TMA and monoclonal gammopathy in Peking University First Hospital were included in the study. Complement activation was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations with clinical features, pathological data and laboratory findings were further investigated.

Results
Among renal TMA patients beyond 50 years of age, the prevalence of monoclonal gammopathy was 16.51% (18/109) which is almost 4-fold greater than the expected rate in population (4.2%). Eleven patients had acute kidney injury, and two patients required dialysis. Hematological diagnosis was consistent with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) (n = 10), unconfirmed MGUS (n = 3), POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy and skin changes) syndromes (n = 4), Castleman's disease (n = 2) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (n = 1). A majority of patients (84.2%) showed the activation of complement classical pathway. Fifteen percent (3/20) of patients received conservative therapy, 5% (1/20) received steroid only, 30% (6/20) with immunosuppression and 50% (10/20) received clone-targeted chemotherapy. During a median 56 months of follow-up, end-stage renal disease developed in two patients, and five patients died mainly because of hematological progression.

Conclusion
This study found the dysregulation of complement activation, especially the classical pathway, involved in the pathogenesis of biopsy-proven renal TMA and monoclonal gammopathy.
Genomic landscape of malignant phyllodes tumors reveals multiple targetable opportunities
Authors: Rosenberger Laura H , Riedel Richard F , Diego Emilia J , Nash Amanda L , Grilley-Olson Juneko E , Danziger Natalie A , Sokol Ethan S , Ross Jeffrey S , Sammons Sarah L 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Malignant phyllodes tumors (MPT) are rare fibroepithelial breast cancers with no known effective systemic therapy; metastatic progression portends a dismal prognosis. We sought to describe the genomic landscape of MPTs through genomic profiling and immunotherapeutic biomarker analysis.

Materials and methods
Cases of sequenced MPT were identified from a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments-certified, College of American Pathologists-accredited laboratory (Foundation Medicine). All cases underwent genomic profiling using adaptor ligation-based, next-generation sequencing assay of 324 genes. Tumor agnostic immunotherapy biomarkers, microsatellite instability, tumor mutational burden (TMB), and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression were evaluated. Fisher’s Exact Tests and analysis of variance were used to test for differences between groups and for continuous variables as appropriate.

Results
Of 135 MPT cases identified; 94 (69.6%) were localized/locally recurrent and 41 (30.4%) were metastatic. Median age was 54 years (range 14-86). The median TMB was 2.5 mut/Mb and 3 were TMB-high (≥10 mut/Mb). 21.4% were PD-L1+ via Dako 22C3 assay (CPS ≥1). Most commonly altered genes included TERT-promoter (69.7%), CDKN2A (45.9%), TP53 (37.8%), NF1 (35.6%), CDKN2B (33.3%), MED12 (28.9%), MTAP (27.7%), KMT2D (22.2%), PIK3CA (20.0%), PTEN (18.5%), and RB1 (18.5%). Several tumors harboring genomic alterations with US Food and Drug Administration-approved indications in other tumor types were found including NF1, PIK3CA, EGFR Exon 19/20 insertions, and BRAF V600E mutations.

Conclusions
In the largest genomic evaluation of MPT to date, multiple clinically actionable mutations were found. Routine sequencing of metastatic MPT may provide additional information to guide treatment decisions and clinical trial enrollment.
Regulating programmed cell death in plant cells: Intracellular acidification plays a pivotal role together with calcium signaling
Authors: Bosch Maurice , Franklin-Tong Vernonica 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Programmed cell death (PCD) occurs in different tissues in response to a number of different signals in plant cells. Drawing from work in several different contexts, including root-cap cell differentiation, plant response to biotic and abiotic stress, and some self-incompatibility (SI) systems, the data suggest that, despite differences, there are underlying commonalities in the early decision-making stages of PCD. Here, we focus on how 2 cellular events, increased [Ca2+]cyt levels and cytosolic acidification, appear to act as early signals involved in regulating both developmental and stimulus-induced PCD in plant cells.
Allele-specific expression of AP2-like ABA repressor 1 regulates iron uptake by modulating rhizosphere pH in apple
Authors: Ma Huaying , Fu Mengmeng , Xu Zhen , Chu Zicheng , Tian Ji , Wang Yi , Zhang Xinzhong , Han Zhenhai , Wu Ting 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Genetic variation within a species can result in allelic expression for natural selection or breeding efforts. Here, we identified an iron (Fe) deficiency-inducible gene, AP2-like ABA repressor 1 (MdABR1), in apple (Malus domestica). MdABR1 exhibited differential expression at the allelic level (MdABR131A and MdABR131G) in response to Fe deficiency. The W-box insertion in the promoter of MdABR131A is essential for its induced expression and its positive role under Fe deficiency stress. MdABR1 binds to the promoter of basic helix–loop–helix 105 (MdbHLH105), participating in the Fe deficiency response, and activates its transcription. MdABR131A exerts a more pronounced transcriptional activation effect on MdbHLH105. Suppression of MdABR1 expression leads to reduced rhizosphere acidification in apple, and MdABR131A exhibits allelic expression under Fe deficiency stress, which is substantially upregulated and then activates the expression of MdbHLH105, promoting the accumulation of plasma membrane proton ATPase 8 (MdAHA8) transcripts in response to proton extrusion, thereby promoting rhizosphere acidification. Therefore, variation in the ABR1 alleles results in variable gene expression and enables apple plants to exhibit a wider tolerance capability and Fe deficiency response. These findings also shed light on the molecular mechanisms of allele-specific expression in woody plants.
Telomere biology disorders: from dyskeratosis congenita and beyond
Authors: Roka Kleoniki , Solomou Elena , Kattamis Antonis , Stiakaki Eftychia 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Defective telomerase function or telomere maintenance causes genomic instability. Alterations in telomere length and/or attrition are the primary features of rare diseases known as telomere biology disorders or telomeropathies. Recent advances in the molecular basis of these disorders and cutting-edge methods assessing telomere length have increased our understanding of this topic. Multiorgan manifestations and different phenotypes have been reported even in carriers within the same family. In this context, apart from dyskeratosis congenita, disorders formerly considered idiopathic (i.e. pulmonary fibrosis, liver cirrhosis) frequently correlate with underlying defective telomere maintenance mechanisms. Moreover, these patients are prone to developing specific cancer types and exhibit exceptional sensitivity and toxicity in standard chemotherapy regimens. The current review describes the diverse spectrum of clinical manifestations of telomere biology disorders in pediatric and adult patients, their correlation with pathogenic variants, and considerations during their management to increase awareness and improve a multidisciplinary approach.
Relationships Between Socioecological Factors and Self-Efficacy to Participate in Physical Activity for Adults With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: An Integrative Review
Authors: Vorensky Mark , Orstad Stephanie L , Squires Allison , Parraga Susan , Byrne Katherine , Merriwether Ericka N 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Objective
Self-efficacy for leisure-time or health-promoting physical activity (SEPA) is a psychosocial determinant of physical activity. The socioecological model can provide a robust perspective of SEPA. The objective of this study was to synthesize the evidence on multilevel correlates of SEPA among individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The second aim examined the extent to which socioecological disparities are associated with SEPA among individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Methods
An integrative review was conducted. Included studies needed to investigate the relationship between SEPA and socioecological factors at the interpersonal, institutional, community, and/or macrosystem level among adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain (≥3 months). Searches in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were performed (December 30, 2020, and October 12, 2022), yielding 4047 records after duplicates were removed. Two independent reviewers completed screening, full-text reviews, and data extraction. After title and abstract screening and full-text reviews, 17 studies were included. The constant comparison method included: data reduction, data display, data comparison, and conclusion drawing/verification. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools.

Results
Five themes emerged with respect to relationships between SEPA and socioecological factors: social relations, social comparisons, patient–provider relationship, organizational resources, and accessibility to physical activity. Relationships between interpersonal factors and SEPA were most prominently studied. One study examined and addressed potential disparities in SEPA at the macrosystem level.

Conclusion
A spectrum of relationships from supporting to straining SEPA were found at the interpersonal level. Relationships between institutional, community, and macrosystem factors and SEPA were comparably sparse. Gaps in the literature were identified regarding how health disparities present across the socioecological model with respect to SEPA.

Impact
Clinicians can use this review to evaluate how SEPA can be supported or threatened by factors across the socioecological model. This may be a preliminary step towards examining and addressing health disparities in SEPA.
Challenging Identity Conflict: How Queer, Trans, and Nonbinary Muslim Organizations Incite Activism
Authors: Golriz Golshan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
This article synthesizes new directions taken in the sociology of religion and social movement studies and examines Queer, Trans, and Nonbinary (QTN) Muslim activism in Toronto, Canada. The author argues that Queer Trans and Nonbinary Muslim Organizations (QTNMOs) do more than help reconcile their members’ conflicting identities. Instead, QTNMOs use intersectional frameworks to help QTN Muslims resist intracommunity marginalization in mainstream queer and religious organizations. Findings show that QTNMOs can be considered Social Movement Organizations in three ways: these groups defy culturally embedded institutional norms that are harmful to QTN Muslims, they aim to foster oppositional consciousness, and they incite collective action from their constituents. The article provides a case study of multi-institutional LGBTQ religious activism. The intersectional perspectives of QTN Muslims allow interested sociology of religion and social movements scholars to strengthen the insights gained from each of these fields.
Preoperative Symptom Duration and the Effect on Clinical Outcomes and PROMIS-PF in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Fusion Surgery
Authors: Johnson Andrea H. , Brennan Jane C. , Rana Parimal , Hall Sarah , Turcotte Justin J. , Patton Chad 
Published: August 2024

Study Design.
Retrospective Review

Objective.
The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of preoperative symptom duration on postoperative clinical outcomes for patients undergoing lumbar fusion surgery.

Summary of Background Data.
Lumbar fusion surgery can be significantly beneficial for lumbar spondylolisthesis and spinal stenosis. Surgical treatment is typically preceded by some amount of non-operative intervention and there isn’t a consensus on the optimal timing between symptom onset and surgical intervention.

Methods.
A retrospective review of 144 patients undergoing a 1-3 level lumbar fusion from June 2020 to December 2023 was performed. Demographics, preoperative symptom onset, primary diagnosis, and surgical procedure were compared between patients with less than or greater than 2 years of symptoms. Postoperative outcomes and PROMIS-PF were compared between groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results.
52 (36.1%) had symptoms for 2 years or longer while 92 (63.9%) had symptoms for less than 2 years. There was no difference in demographics, procedure type, primary diagnosis, or preoperative symptoms between those who had symptoms for greater than or less than 2 years. Those who had symptoms for 2+ years had a significantly lower change in PF (4.7±7.1 vs. 7.7±9.0; P=0.029) and lower rate of MCID achievement (44.2% vs. 65.2%; P=0.023). There was no difference in outcomes by symptom duration. On multivariate analysis those with symptoms of 2 years or more were 2.4 times less likely to achieve an MCID (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.92; P=0.031).

Conclusion.
Patients undergoing lumbar fusion with greater than 2 years of symptoms prior to surgery have a smaller increase in PROMIS-PF and are less likely to achieve MCID on PROMIS-PF. Further study is needed in order to determine the optimal timing for lumbar fusion surgery following symptom onset.
Association between Paraspinal Muscle Parameters and single-segment Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
Authors: Liu Shuang , Shi Qi , Da Wei-Wei , Xue Chun-Chun , Chen Lin , Li Yu-Nan , Xue Yong-Peng , Du Wen-Lan , Li Xiao-Feng 
Published: August 2024

Study Design.
A retrospective, cross-sectional cohort study.

Objective.
This study aims to investigate the association between paraspinal muscle parameters and single-segment degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS).

Summary of Background Data.
The relationship between lumbar paraspinal muscles morphology and single-segment DLS remains unclear.

Methods.
A retrospective review was conducted on 115 patients with L4/5 single-segment DLS and 105 subjects without DLS. Two independent investigators assessed the relative cross-sectional area and fat infiltration rate of the multifidus, erector spinae, and psoas major at L3/4, L4/5, and L5/S1 levels, comparing these measurements between the two groups. Additionally, binary logistic regression analysis was performed with DLS as the dependent variable to analyze the relative cross-sectional area and fat infiltration rate of different paraspinal muscles. Within the DLS group, the correlation between paraspinal muscle characteristics and the anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal was examined.

Results.
The fat infiltration rate of multifidus, erector spinae, and psoas major were higher in the DLS group than in the control group, while the relative cross-sectional area of multifidus and psoas major were lower in the DLS group. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between fat infiltration rate of multifidus and psoas major and DLS. The relative cross-sectional area of multifidus and erector spinae was significantly smaller below the affected segment in the DLS group compared to the control group. A significant positive correlation was observed between the relative cross-sectional area of multifidus and erector spinae and the anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal.

Conclusion.
There is a close association between paraspinal muscle degeneration and single-segment DLS, with increased relative cross-sectional area of the multifidus and psoas major possibly being risk factors for single-segment DLS. The restoration or enhancement of paraspinal muscle function could potentially serve as a pivotal target for the prevention and treatment of single-segment DLS.

Level of Evidence.
III
Preventing perinatal HIV acquisition; current gaps and future perspectives
Authors: Cockbain Beatrice , Fidler Sarah , Lyall Hermione 
Published: August 2024

Purpose of review
Although current treatment could eradicate vertical transmission, in 2022, 130 000 infants acquired HIV globally. HIV suppression with antiretroviral therapy (ART) transforms survival for people living with HIV (PLWH), and prevents transmission, including vertical. International guidelines recommend lifelong ART for PLWH, consequently perinatal HIV acquisition reflects implementation gaps in the HIV care cascade. We summarize these gaps, exploring potential novel approaches and therapeutic innovations towards eliminating vertical HIV transmission.

Recent findings
Multifactorial challenges continue to underpin gaps in the HIV care cascade, including accessibility, availability and sustainability of HIV testing, prevention and treatment, alongside stigma, gender-based violence and poverty. Long-acting ART may be important in preventing perinatal HIV acquisition, with early data demonstrating tolerability and efficacy of injectable ART throughout pregnancy, both as HIV treatment and prevention. Carefully selected long-acting broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) matching circulating, exposing viral envelope sequences have demonstrated safety, clinical trials are ongoing to demonstrate efficacy.

Summary
Emerging clinical studies should prioritize pregnant/lactating people and infants to ensure such therapies are well tolerated and efficacious. Alongside therapeutic innovation, programmatic strategies must address social and economic challenges, ensuring sustainable HIV treatment/prevention programmes and facilitating global elimination of blood-borne viruses.