bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A geostatistical analysis of multiscale metallicity variations in galaxies – III. Spatial resolution and data quality limits
Authors: Metha Benjamin , Trenti Michele , Battisti Andrew , Chu Tingjin 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
Geostatistical methods are powerful tools for understanding the spatial structure of the metallicity distribution of galaxies, and enable construction of accurate predictive models of the 2D metallicity distribution. However, so far these methods have only been applied to very high spatial resolution metallicity maps, leaving it uncertain if they will work on lower quality data. In this study, we apply geostatistical techniques to high-resolution spectroscopic maps of three local galaxies convolved to eight different spatial resolutions ranging from ∼40 pc to ∼1 kpc per pixel. We fit a geostatistical model to the data at all resolutions, and find that for metallicity maps where small-scale structure is visible by eye (with ≳10 resolution elements per Re), all parameters, including the metallicity correlation scale, can be recovered accurately. At all resolutions tested, we find that point metallicity predictions from such a geostatistical model outperform a circularly symmetric metallicity gradient model. We also explore dependence on the number of data points, and find that N ≳ 100 spatially resolved metallicity values are sufficient to train a geostatistical model that yields more accurate metallicity predictions than a radial gradient model. Finally, we investigate the potential detrimental effects of having spaxels smaller than an individual H ii region by repeating our analysis with metallicities integrated over H ii regions. We see that spaxel-based measurements have more noise, as expected, but the underlying spatial metallicity distribution can be recovered regardless of whether spaxels or integrated regions are used.
The 2022 super-Eddington outburst of the source SMC X-2
Authors: Coe M J , Kennea J A , Monageng I M , Townsend L J , Buckley D A H , Williams M , Udalski A , Evans P A 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
SMC X-2 exhibits X-ray outburst behaviour that makes it one of the most luminous X-ray sources in the Small Magellanic Cloud. In the last decade it has undergone two such massive outbursts – in 2015 and 2022. The first outburst is well reported in the literature, but the 2022 event has yet to be fully described and discussed. That is the goal of this paper. In particular, the post-peak characteristics of the two events are compared. This reveals clear similarities in decay profiles, believed to be related to different accretion mechanisms occurring at different times as the outbursts evolve. The H α emission line indicates that the Be disc undergoes complex structural variability, with evidence of warping as a result of its interaction with the neutron star. The detailed observations reported here will be important for modelling such interactions in this kind of binary systems.
Prediction of protein-RNA interactions from single-cell transcriptomic data
Authors: Fiorentino Jonathan , Armaos Alexandros , Colantoni Alessio , Tartaglia Gian Gaetano 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Proteins are crucial in regulating every aspect of RNA life, yet understanding their interactions with coding and noncoding RNAs remains limited. Experimental studies are typically restricted to a small number of cell lines and a limited set of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Although computational methods based on physico-chemical principles can predict protein-RNA interactions accurately, they often lack the ability to consider cell-type-specific gene expression and the broader context of gene regulatory networks (GRNs). Here, we assess the performance of several GRN inference algorithms in predicting protein-RNA interactions from single-cell transcriptomic data, and propose a pipeline, called scRAPID (single-cell transcriptomic-based RnA Protein Interaction Detection), that integrates these methods with the catRAPID algorithm, which can identify direct physical interactions between RBPs and RNA molecules. Our approach demonstrates that RBP–RNA interactions can be predicted from single-cell transcriptomic data, with performances comparable or superior to those achieved for the well-established task of inferring transcription factor–target interactions. The incorporation of catRAPID significantly enhances the accuracy of identifying interactions, particularly with long noncoding RNAs, and enables the identification of hub RBPs and RNAs. Additionally, we show that interactions between RBPs can be detected based on their inferred RNA targets. The software is freely available at https://github.com/tartaglialabIIT/scRAPID.
The chromatin accessibility dynamics during cell fate specifications in zebrafish early embryogenesis
Authors: Xu Qiushi , Zhang Yunlong , Xu Wei , Liu Dong , Jin Wenfei , Chen Xi , Hong Ni 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Chromatin accessibility plays a critical role in the regulation of cell fate decisions. Although gene expression changes have been extensively profiled at the single-cell level during early embryogenesis, the dynamics of chromatin accessibility at cis-regulatory elements remain poorly studied. Here, we used a plate-based single-cell ATAC-seq method to profile the chromatin accessibility dynamics of over 10 000 nuclei from zebrafish embryos. We investigated several important time points immediately after zygotic genome activation (ZGA), covering key developmental stages up to dome. The results revealed key chromatin signatures in the first cell fate specifications when cells start to differentiate into enveloping layer (EVL) and yolk syncytial layer (YSL) cells. Finally, we uncovered many potential cell-type specific enhancers and transcription factor motifs that are important for the cell fate specifications.
Communication between DNA and nucleotide binding sites facilitates stepping by the RecBCD helicase
Authors: Gaydar Vera , Zananiri Rani , Saied Layla , Dvir Or , Kaplan Ariel , Henn Arnon 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Double-strand DNA breaks are the severest type of genomic damage, requiring rapid response to ensure survival. RecBCD helicase in prokaryotes initiates processive and rapid DNA unzipping, essential for break repair. The energetics of RecBCD during translocation along the DNA track are quantitatively not defined. Specifically, it's essential to understand the mechanism by which RecBCD switches between its binding states to enable its translocation. Here, we determine, by systematic affinity measurements, the degree of coupling between DNA and nucleotide binding to RecBCD. In the presence of ADP, RecBCD binds weakly to DNA that harbors a double overhang mimicking an unwinding intermediate. Consistently, RecBCD binds weakly to ADP in the presence of the same DNA. We did not observe coupling between DNA and nucleotide binding for DNA molecules having only a single overhang, suggesting that RecBCD subunits must both bind DNA to ‘sense’ the nucleotide state. On the contrary, AMPpNp shows weak coupling as RecBCD remains strongly bound to DNA in its presence. Detailed thermodynamic analysis of the RecBCD reaction mechanism suggests an ‘energetic compensation’ between RecB and RecD, which may be essential for rapid unwinding. Our findings provide the basis for a plausible stepping mechanism’ during the processive translocation of RecBCD.
Programmable RNA 5-methylcytosine (m5C) modification of cellular RNAs by dCasRx conjugated methyltransferase and demethylase
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhao Feiyu , Li Jinze , Sun Xiaodi , Zhang Xiyun , Wang Hejun , Fan Peng , Lai Liangxue , Li Zhanjun , Sui Tingting 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
5-Methylcytosine (m5C), an abundant RNA modification, plays a crucial role in regulating RNA fate and gene expression. While recent progress has been made in understanding the biological roles of m5C, the inability to introduce m5C at specific sites within transcripts has hindered efforts to elucidate direct links between specific m5C and phenotypic outcomes. Here, we developed a CRISPR–Cas13d-based tool, named reengineered m5C modification system (termed ‘RCMS’), for targeted m5C methylation and demethylation in specific transcripts. The RCMS editors consist of a nuclear-localized dCasRx conjugated to either a methyltransferase, NSUN2/NSUN6, or a demethylase, the catalytic domain of mouse Tet2 (ten–eleven translocation 2), enabling the manipulation of methylation events at precise m5C sites. We demonstrate that the RCMS editors can direct site-specific m5C incorporation and demethylation. Furthermore, we confirm their effectiveness in modulating m5C levels within transfer RNAs and their ability to induce changes in transcript abundance and cell proliferation through m5C-mediated mechanisms. These findings collectively establish RCMS editors as a focused epitranscriptome engineering tool, facilitating the identification of individual m5C alterations and their consequential effects.
Protein homeostasis imprinting across evolution
Authors: Koutsandreas Thodoris , Felden Brice , Chevet Eric , Chatziioannou Aristotelis 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Protein homeostasis (a.k.a. proteostasis) is associated with the primary functions of life, and therefore with evolution. However, it is unclear how cellular proteostasis machines have evolved to adjust protein biogenesis needs to environmental constraints. Herein, we describe a novel computational approach, based on semantic network analysis, to evaluate proteostasis plasticity during evolution. We show that the molecular components of the proteostasis network (PN) are reliable metrics to deconvolute the life forms into Archaea, Bacteria and Eukarya and to assess the evolution rates among species. Semantic graphs were used as new criteria to evaluate PN complexity in 93 Eukarya, 250 Bacteria and 62 Archaea, thus representing a novel strategy for taxonomic classification, which provided information about species divergence. Kingdom-specific PN components were identified, suggesting that PN complexity may correlate with evolution. We found that the gains that occurred throughout PN evolution revealed a dichotomy within both the PN conserved modules and within kingdom-specific modules. Additionally, many of these components contribute to the evolutionary imprinting of other conserved mechanisms. Finally, the current study suggests a new way to exploit the genomic annotation of biomedical ontologies, deriving new knowledge from the semantic comparison of different biological systems.
Using Exogenous Social Media Exposure Measures to Assess the Effects of Smokeless Tobacco–Related Social Media Content on Smokeless Tobacco Sales in the United States
Authors: Kostygina Ganna , Kim Yoonsang , Gebhardt Zachary , Tran Hy , Norris Andrew , Page Simon , Borowiecki Mateusz , Rose Shyanika W , Emery Sherry 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Prior research on the effects of social media promotion of tobacco products has predominantly relied on survey-based self-report measures of marketing exposure, which potentially introduce endogeneity, recall, and selection biases. New approaches can enhance measurement and help better understand the effects of exposure to tobacco-related messages in a dynamic social media marketing environment. We used geolocation-specific tweet rate as an exogenous indicator of exposure to smokeless tobacco (ST)-related content and employed this measure to examine the influence of social media marketing on ST sales.

Aims and Methods
Autoregressive error models were used to analyze the association between the ST-relevant tweet rate (aggregated by 4-week period from February 12, 2017 to June 26, 2021 and scaled by population density) and logarithmic ST unit sales across time by product type (newer, snus, conventional) in the United States, accounting for autocorrelated errors. Interrupted time series approach was used to control for policy change effects.

Results
ST product category-related tweet rates were associated with ST unit sales of newer and conventional products, controlling for price, relevant policy events, and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. On average, 100-unit increase in the number of newer ST-related tweets was associated with 14% increase in unit sales (RR = 1.14; p = .01); 100-unit increase in conventional ST tweets was associated with ~1% increase in unit sales (p = .04). Average price was negatively associated with the unit sales.

Conclusions
Study findings reveal that ST social media tweet rate was related to increased ST consumption and illustrate the utility of exogenous measures in conceptualizing and assessing effects in the complex media environment.

Implications
Tobacco control initiatives should include efforts to monitor the role of social media in promoting tobacco use. Surveillance of social media platforms is critical to monitor emerging tobacco product-related marketing strategies and promotional content reach. Exogenous measures of potential exposure to social media messages can supplement survey data to study media effects on tobacco consumption.
Impact of Financial Disclosures and Health Warnings on Youth and Young Adult Perceptions of Pro-E-cigarette Instagram Posts
Authors: Lee Donghee N , Bluestein Meagan A , Stevens Elise M , Tackett Alayna P , Mathews Ashley J , Hébert Emily T 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
We examined the impact of financial disclosures and warning labels on pro-e-cigarette Instagram posts and their association with attitudes toward the ad and product among youth and young adults.

Methods
During March to May 2021, we conducted a factorial experiment using an online convenience sample of youth and young adults (N = 1687, Mage = 21.54). Participants were randomized to one of four conditions: pro-e-cigarette Instagram posts with only a financial disclosure, only a warning label, both a financial disclosure + warning label, or no financial disclosure or warning label. After viewing the posts, participants answered questions regarding their attitude toward the ad and the product. We used one-way ANOVA to estimate the association of condition on outcomes controlling for demographics.

Results
Young adults who viewed Instagram posts with only a financial disclosure reported more positive attitudes toward the ad than those who viewed posts with both a financial disclosure + warning label (p &lt; .05). Young adults who viewed posts with only a financial disclosure reported more positive attitudes toward the product than those who viewed posts with only a warning label, both a financial disclosure + warning label, and without either (ps &lt; .05). Differences were not statistically significant for youth. E-cigarette use status was associated with increased positive attitudes toward the ad (p &lt; .001) and product (p &lt; .001) for all participants.

Conclusions
Our results can inform policy interventions to mitigate the effects of e-cigarette social media marketing among youth and young adults. Including financial disclosures may not decrease appeal of e-cigarettes compared to posts without either.

Implications
Findings from the study suggest that a warning label may be more effective in reducing the effects of pro-e-cigarette social media posts than a financial disclosure among young adults. Public health officials should examine additional strategies beyond financial disclosures and warning labels (eg, social media peer mentoring program) to offset the persuasive effects of pro-e-cigarette social media marketing posts on young people. Additional policy interventional efforts are needed to limit the impact of e-cigarette social media marketing.
Ending Race-Conscious College Admissions and Its Potential Impact on the Infectious Disease Workforce
Authors: Momplaisir Florence , Rogo Tanya , Alexander Parrish Ronika , Delair Shirley , Rigaud Mona , Caine Virginia , Absalon Judith , Word Bonnie , Hewlett Dial 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
On 29 June 2023, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that race-conscious consideration for college admission is unconstitutional. We discuss the consequences of this ruling on the delivery of equitable care and health system readiness to combat current and emerging pandemics. We propose strategies to mitigate the negative impact of this ruling on diversifying the infectious disease (ID) workforce.
The Characteristics of Youth With Missed HIV Visits in Alabama
Authors: Hao Jiaying , Long Dustin M , Relyea Ashley Heather M , Budhwani Henna , Simpson Tina Y , Hill Samantha V 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Gaps in knowledge remain related to understanding missed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) visits and youth with HIV (YWH). This study examined data from an Alabama academic HIV clinic with clients aged 16 to 24 years old and found that non virally suppressed and older YWH were associated with missed visits among YWH.
Uterine carcinosarcoma with heterologous mesenchymal element: a case report of a rare and aggressive tumor
Authors: Asfer Shahd , Hmidan Samsam Suhair , Zakkar Rama , Jarbouh Habib 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Uterine carcinosarcoma (UCS), also known as malignant mixed Müllerian tumor, is a rare malignancy, which consists of both carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements, with a clinical picture resembling endometrial carcinoma. We report a case of a 74-year-old woman is reported with UCS, diagnosed after a 7 months history of vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. Previous transvaginal sonography showed nonspecific findings, but a repeated one revealed a central uterine mass. Dilatation and curettage and several biopsies were performed. The initial histological report suggested high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma. After total hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy, pathology confirmed UCS whose sarcomatous element was heterologous type included osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma. The patient is receiving adjuvant chemotherapy. This case highlights the importance of pathology evaluation after hysterectomy to raise the confidence of diagnosis with emphasis on prognostic outcomes that can be significantly affected in patients with this type of sarcomatous element.
New-onset seizures: an unusual neurologic manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Khan Omair , Aslam Sadia , Mohammadrezaei Fatemeh , Wilches Rita Dennise Moncayo , Mehrabi Joseph , Yehounatan Matania , Kumari Sapna , Singh Sehajpreet , Ahmadi Maryam , Masri Daniel , Konka Sarita , Margulis Yevgeniya 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting the musculoskeletal system but can often involve other organ systems as well. Rheumatoid meningitis is a rare central nervous system (CNS) manifestation of RA characterized by pachymeningeal and leptomeningeal enhancement. Herein, we present a case of a 64-year-old male who presented with left lower extremity weakness and witnessed seizures. The diagnostic work-up, including lumbar puncture, brain MRI and meningeal biopsy ruled out malignancy and were consistent with the diagnosis of rheumatoid meningitis. The patient was discharged on high-dose steroids along with anti-seizure medications. On subsequent follow-up visits, the patient remained seizure-free.
Maximal Tizanidine withdrawal managed with dexmedetomidine: a vital intervention
Authors: Omer Marah , Yigit Yavuz , Alkahlout Baha Hamdi , Mohamed Eslam Hussein , Khalil Sulafa , Azad Aftab Mohammad 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Tizanidine withdrawal is a rare and complex phenomenon characterized by a surge in adrenergic activity upon abrupt discontinuation of the drug. We present a unique case of a 41-year-old male with multiple comorbidities who self-administered an exceptionally high daily dose of Tizanidine, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms. This case report highlights the challenges in managing such cases. The patient, with a history of myofascial pain syndrome, hypertension, anxiety, and depression, experienced distressing symptoms, including tachycardia, rebound hypertension, neuropsychiatric manifestations, and involuntary muscle movements. Unlike previous cases, our patient required the addition of dexmedetomidine in conjunction with benzodiazepines for symptom management. Reintroduction of Tizanidine, carefully controlled and tapered, led to stabilization of hemodynamics and cessation of involuntary movements. This case underscores the importance of individualized treatment and vigilant monitoring when dealing with Tizanidine withdrawal, particularly at elevated daily doses.
Apatinib Plus Toripalimab (Anti-PD1 Therapy) as Second-Line Therapy in Patients With Advanced Gastric or Esophagogastric Junction Cancer: Results From a Randomized, Open-Label Phase II Study
Authors: Wei Qing , Xu Xiaoqing , Li Jingjing , Wang Chang , Chen Weijun , Xie Yanru , Luo Cong , Chen Lei , Chu Jiadong , Wu Wei , Han Zhe , Yang Yanlian , Hu Zhiyuan , Xu Qi , Ying Jieer 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
This study aimed to assess the activity of apatinib plus toripalimab in the second line for patients with advanced gastric or esophagogastric junction cancer (GC/EGJC).

Methods
In this open-label, phase II, randomized trial, patients with advanced GC/EGJC who progressed after first-line chemotherapy were enrolled and received 250 mg apatinib per day plus 240 mg toripalimab on day 1 per 3 weeks (arm A) or physician’s choice of chemotherapy (PC, arm B). The primary endpoint of this study was the 1-year survival rate. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), overall response rate (ORR), and safety were assessed as secondary endpoints.

Results
Twenty-five patients received apatinib plus toripalimab while 26 were enrolled in arm B. The 1-year survival rates of the 2 groups were 43.3% and 42.3%, respectively (P = .903). The PFS was 2.77 versus 2.33 months (P = .660). The OS was 8.30 versus 9.88 months (P = .539). An objective response was reported in 20.0% of patients in arm A compared to 26.9% in arm B (P = .368), respectively. A total of 6 (24.0%) patients experienced adverse events of grade ≥ 3 in arm A, while 9 (34.6%) patients suffered from adverse events of grade ≥ 3 in arm B. No drug-related deaths occurred in either group.

Conclusion
Toripalimab plus apatinib treatment in second-line therapy of advanced GC/EGJC showed manageable toxicity but did not improve clinical outcomes relative to PC treatment (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04190745).