bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Defective kernel 66 encodes a GTPase essential for kernel development in maize
Authors: Wei Yi Ming , Wang Bo Hui , Shao Dong Jie , Yan Ru Yu , Wu Jia Wen , Zheng Guang Ming , Zhao Ya Jie , Zhang Xian Sheng , Zhao Xiang Yu 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The mitochondrion is a semi-autonomous organelle that provides energy for cell activities through oxidative phosphorylation. In this study, we identified a defective kernel 66 (dek66)-mutant maize with defective kernels. We characterized a candidate gene, DEK66, encoding a ribosomal assembly factor located in mitochondria and possessing GTPase activity (which belongs to the ribosome biogenesis GTPase A family). In the dek66 mutant, impairment of mitochondrial structure and function led to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and promoted programmed cell death in endosperm cells. Furthermore, the transcript levels of most of the key genes associated with nutrient storage, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex, and mitochondrial ribosomes in the dek66 mutant were significantly altered. Collectively, the results suggest that DEK66 is essential for the development of maize kernels by affecting mitochondrial function. This study provides a reference for understanding the impact of a mitochondrial ribosomal assembly factor in maize kernel development.
Lyman α emitters in ionized bubbles: constraining the environment and ionized fraction
Authors: Trapp A C , Furlanetto Steven R , Davies Frederick B 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
Lyman α emitters (LAEs) are excellent probes of the reionization process, as they must be surrounded by large ionized bubbles in order to be visible during the reionization era. Large ionized regions are thought to correspond to overdense regions and may be protoclusters, making them interesting test-beds for early massive structures. Close associations containing several LAEs are often assumed to mark overdense, ionized bubbles. Here, we develop the first framework to quantify the ionization and density fields of high-z galaxy associations. We explore the interplay between (i) the large-scale density of a survey field, (ii) Poisson noise due to the small number density of bright sources at high redshifts (z ∼ 7), and (iii) the effects of the ionized fraction on the observation of LAEs. We use Bayesian statistics, a simple model of reionization, and a Monte Carlo simulation to construct a more comprehensive method for calculating the large-scale density of LAE regions than previous works. We find that Poisson noise has a strong effect on the inferred density of a region and show how the ionized fraction can be inferred. We then apply our framework to the strongest association yet identified: Hu et al. found 14 LAEs in a volume of ∼50 000 cMpc3 inside the COSMOS field at z ∼ 7. We show that this is most likely a 2.4σ overdensity inside of an ionized or nearly ionized bubble. We also show that this LAE association implies that the global ionized fraction is $\bar{Q} = 0.59^{+0.10}_{-0.11}$, within the context of a simple reionization model.
Gas-phase formation route for trans-HC(O)SH and its isomers under interstellar conditions: a state-of-the-art quantum-chemical study
Authors: Ye Hexu , Alessandrini Silvia , Puzzarini Cristina 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT
Sulphur is an important and ubiquitous element of the interstellar medium (ISM). Despite its importance, its chemistry still needs to be elucidated, with one of the main issues being the missing sulphur problem. In this work, small molecular species, already detected in the ISM (SH, OH, H2CS, H2CO, H2S, H2O, HCS/HSC, and HCO), were combined to set five different gas-phase reactions for the formation of isomers belonging to the CH2SO family, with one of its member, namely trans-HC(O)SH, already identified as well. Through a state-of-the-art computational study, it has been found that, thermochemically, only one of the reactions considered is open in the ISM conditions: H2CS + OH can produce cis/trans-HC(S)OH and cis/trans-HC(O)SH via hydrogen-atom loss. Kinetically, the favoured product is trans-HC(S)OH followed by trans-HC(O)SH. In view of the recent detection of this latter, our study suggests that trans-HC(S)OH is a good candidate for astronomical observations. Since this species has never been studied experimentally, as a first step towards its laboratory characterization, accurate estimates of the rotational constants have been provided.
The evolution of preferences and charitable giving: a panel study of the university years
Authors: Eckel Catherine , Sinha Nishita , Wilson Rick 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Economic preferences are often taken as given, yet evidence shows that preferences respond to life events and change over time. We examine the evolution of other-regarding preferences for a cohort of university students over 5 years, starting before they matriculate and extending one year beyond graduation. Using survey and incentivized measures of preferences, we show that altruism declines over the university years. This decline is reflected in changes in charitable giving over three donation opportunities. We rule out several alternative explanations for the observed change, including cohort differences, perceptions of the charities, and experience with experiments. We show evidence of a ‘giving type’ in charitable giving, with consistency in behavior across giving opportunities. Methodologically, we also show that the incentivized and survey measures are similar at predicting giving types. We conclude that preferences reflect common tendencies over time, while simultaneously showing an overall decline in generosity during the university years.
Facilitators and Barriers for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Testing in Female Sex Workers: A Scoping Review
Authors: Xu Wenqian , Liang Peng , Wang Cheng 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
We conducted a scoping review to examine the barriers and facilitators accessing Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae testing among female sex workers. A literature search was conducted in Embase, Medline, and Web of Science for studies published from the date of creation of database to 17 March 2023, without restrictions for publication date. We used thematic synthesis to identify common affecting factors across included studies and then linked them into categories of the socioecological framework. Among the 14 articles included, 3 utilized qualitative methods, 7 utilized quantitative surveys, 2 were mixed methods, and 2 were randomized controlled trials. Several important affecting factors stood out during this review, including stigma and discrimination, as well as social support at the societal level, and financial costs at the service level. This review suggested that interventions on addressing societal- and service-level determinants are needed, which includes reducing stigma and discrimination toward sex work and cost for facility testing, as well as increasing social support and community engagement.
Melioidosis in Timor-Leste: First Case Description and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Guterres Helio , Gusmao Celia , Pinheiro Mateus , Martins Joana , Odio Gustavo , Maia Carolina , da Conceicao Virginia , Soares Messias , Osorio Celita , da Silva Endang Soares , Tilman Arijayanti , Givney Rodney , Oakley Tessa , Yan Jennifer , Toto Lucia , Amaral Elfiana , James Rodney , Buising Kirsty , Mayo Mark , Kaestli Mirjam , Webb Jessica R , Baird Robert W , Currie Bart J , Francis Joshua R , Muhi Stephen 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, has not yet been reported in Timor-Leste, a sovereign state northwest of Australia. In the context of improved access to diagnostic resources and expanding clinical networks in the Australasian region, we report the first 3 cases of culture-confirmed melioidosis in Timor-Leste. These cases describe a broad range of typical presentations, including sepsis, pneumonia, multifocal abscesses, and cutaneous infection. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Timor-Leste isolates belong to the Australasian clade of B. pseudomallei, rather than the Asian clade, consistent with the phylogeographic separation across the Wallace Line. This study underscores an urgent need to increase awareness of this pathogen in Timor-Leste and establish diagnostic laboratories with improved culture capacity in regional hospitals. Clinical suspicion should prompt appropriate sampling and communication with laboratory staff to target diagnostic testing. Local antimicrobial guidelines have recently been revised to include recommendations for empiric treatment of severe sepsis.
Spatial Distribution and Densities of CD103+ and FoxP3+ Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes by Digital Analysis for Outcome Prediction in Breast Cancer
Authors: Chan Ronald , Aphivatanasiri Chaiwat , Poon Ivan K , Tsang Julia Y , Ni Yunbi , Lacambra Maribel , Li Joshua , Lee Conrad , Tse Gary M 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Background
The evaluation of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) for breast cancer prognosis is now established. However, the clinical value for their spatial distributions of specific immune subsets, namely CD103+ tissue-resident memory T cells FoxP3+ regulatory T ells, have not been thoroughly examined.

Method
Representative whole sections of breast cancers were subjected to CD103 and FoxP3 double staining. Their density, ratio, and spatial features were analyzed in tumor area and tumor-stromal interface. Their associations with clinicopathological parameters and patient’s prognosis were analyzed.

Results
CD103 TILs were closer to tumor nests than FoxP3 TILs in the tumor-stromal interface. Their densities were associated with high-grade disease, TNBC, and stromal TILs. High stromal FoxP3 (sFoxP3) TILs and close proximity of sCD103 TILs to tumor were independently associated with better survival at multivariate analysis. Subgroup analysis showed the high FoxP3 TILs density associated better survival was seen in HER2-OE and TNBC subtypes while the proximity of CD103 TILs to tumor nests associated better survival was seen in luminal cancers.

Conclusion
The prognostic impact of CD103 and FoxP3 TILs in breast cancer depends on their spatial localization. High sFoxP3 TIL density and the lower distance of CD103 TILs from the tumor nests had independent favorable prognostic values.
Suzaku spectral analysis of an X-ray emitting plasma in the supernova remnant G352.7−0.1
Authors: Fujishige Asahi , Yamauchi Shigeo , Nobukawa Kumiko K , Nobukawa Masayoshi 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
The results of a Suzaku observation of the supernova remnant (SNR) G352.7−0.1 are presented in this paper. We conducted spectral analysis based on careful sky background estimation and found an emission line from Al at 1.6 keV, in addition to previously detected emission lines from Mg, Si, S, Ar, Ca, and Fe ions. The X-ray spectrum in the 0.7–10 keV band is represented by a two-component ionizing plasma model with different temperatures and ionization timescales. Based on the results, properties of the X-ray emitting plasma and the explosion type are discussed.
The D14 and KAI2 Orthologs of Gymnosperms Sense Strigolactones and KL Mimics, Respectively, and the Signals Are Transduced to Control Downstream Genes
Authors: Kodama Kyoichi , Xie Xiaonan , Kyozuka Junko 
Published: July 2023

AbstractStrigolactones (SLs), lactone-containing carotenoid derivatives, function as signaling molecules in the rhizosphere, inducing symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal. In addition, as a class of plant hormones, SLs control plant growth and development in flowering plants (angiosperms). Recent studies show that the ancestral function of SLs, which precede terrestrialization of plants, is as rhizosphere signaling molecules. SLs were then recruited as a class of plant hormones through the step-by-step acquisition of signaling components. The D14 gene encoding the SL receptor arose by gene duplication of KARRIKIN INSENSITIVE2 (KAI2), the receptor of karrikins and KAI2 ligand (KL), an unknown ligand, in the common ancestor of seed plants. KL signaling targets SMAX1, a repressor protein. On the other hand, the SL signaling targets SMXL78 subclade repressors, which arose by duplication of SMAX1 in angiosperms. Thus, gymnosperms contain the SL receptor D14 but not SMXL78, the SL signaling–specific repressor proteins. We studied two gymnosperm species, ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) and Japanese umbrella pine (Sciadopitys verticillata), to clarify whether SLs are perceived and the signals are transduced in gymnosperms. We show that D14 and KAI2 of ginkgo and Japanese umbrella pine specifically perceive an SL analog and KL mimic, respectively. Furthermore, our results suggest that both SL signaling and KL signaling target SMAX1, and the specific localization of the receptor may result in the specificity of the signaling in gymnosperms.
Evidence for positive long- and short-term effects of vaccinations against COVID-19 in wearable sensor metrics
Authors: Wiedermann Marc , Rose Annika H , Maier Benjamin F , Kolb Jakob J , Hinrichs David , Brockmann Dirk 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Vaccines are among the most powerful tools to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. They are highly effective against infection and substantially reduce the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, ICU admission, and death. However, their potential for attenuating long-term changes in personal health and health-related wellbeing after a SARS-CoV-2 infection remains a subject of debate. Such effects can be effectively monitored at the individual level by analyzing physiological data collected by consumer-grade wearable sensors. Here, we investigate changes in resting heart rate, daily physical activity, and sleep duration around a SARS-CoV-2 infection stratified by vaccination status. Data were collected over a period of 2 years in the context of the German Corona Data Donation Project with around 190,000 monthly active participants. Compared to their unvaccinated counterparts, we find that vaccinated individuals, on average, experience smaller changes in their vital data that also return to normal levels more quickly. Likewise, extreme changes in vitals during the acute phase of the disease occur less frequently in vaccinated individuals. Our results solidify evidence that vaccines can mitigate long-term detrimental effects of SARS-CoV-2 infections both in terms of duration and magnitude. Furthermore, they demonstrate the value of large-scale, high-resolution wearable sensor data in public health research.
Non-typhoidal salmonella contamination along the pork value chain in a rural East African setting: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gichuyia Cianjo M , Thomas Lian F , Makena Christine , Ochieng Linnet , Gathura Peter B , Onono Joshua O , Fèvre Eric M 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background
Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is a serious foodborne pathogen that has previously been isolated from pigs presented for slaughter in a rural pork value chain in western Kenya.

Methods
To understand varying NTS contamination along the value chain we assessed prevalence at slaughter, transport and retail. Suspect isolates from culture were confirmed using matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time of flight mass spectrometry.

Results
Prevalence on pig carcasses, meat transportation containers, retailed raw and cooked pork and accompanying side salads was 18.1%, 23.9%, 28.0%, 1.9% and 8.6%, respectively.

Conclusion
NTS contamination is propagated along the pork value chain in rural western Kenya, demonstrating the need for improved hygiene measures to prevent human exposure.
Dietary interventions improve diabetic kidney disease, but not peripheral neuropathy, in a db/db mouse model of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Eid Stephanie A. , O'Brien Phillipe D. , Kretzler Katharina H. , Jang Dae‐Gyu , Mendelson Faye E. , Hayes John M. , Carter Andrew , Zhang Hongyu , Pennathur Subramaniam , Brosius Frank C. , Koubek Emily J. , Feldman Eva L. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractPatients with type 2 diabetes often develop the microvascular complications of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), which decrease quality of life and increase mortality. Unfortunately, treatment options for DKD and DPN are limited. Lifestyle interventions, such as changes to diet, have been proposed as non‐pharmacological treatment options for preventing or improving DKD and DPN. However, there are no reported studies simultaneously evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of varying dietary interventions in a type 2 diabetes mouse model of both DKD and DPN. Therefore, we compared the efficacy of a 12‐week regimen of three dietary interventions, low carbohydrate, caloric restriction, and alternate day fasting, for preventing complications in a db/db type 2 diabetes mouse model by performing metabolic, DKD, and DPN phenotyping. All three dietary interventions promoted weight loss, ameliorated glycemic status, and improved DKD, but did not impact percent fat mass and DPN. Multiple regression analysis identified a negative correlation between fat mass and motor nerve conduction velocity. Collectively, our data indicate that these three dietary interventions improved weight and glycemic status and alleviated DKD but not DPN. Moreover, diets that decrease fat mass may be a promising non‐pharmacological approach to improve DPN in type 2 diabetes given the negative correlation between fat mass and motor nerve conduction velocity.
Nuclear proteostasis imbalance in laminopathy‐associated premature aging diseases
Authors: Pande Shruti , Ghosh Debasish Kumar 
Published: July 2023

AbstractLaminopathies are a group of rare genetic disorders with heterogeneous clinical phenotypes such as premature aging, cardiomyopathy, lipodystrophy, muscular dystrophy, microcephaly, epilepsy, and so on. The cellular phenomena associated with laminopathy invariably show disruption of nucleoskeleton of lamina due to deregulated expression, localization, function, and interaction of mutant lamin proteins. Impaired spatial and temporal tethering of lamin proteins to the lamina or nucleoplasmic aggregation of lamins are the primary molecular events that can trigger nuclear proteotoxicity by modulating differential protein–protein interactions, sequestering quality control proteins, and initiating a cascade of abnormal post‐translational modifications. Clearly, laminopathic cells exhibit moderate to high nuclear proteotoxicity, raising the question of whether an imbalance in nuclear proteostasis is involved in laminopathic diseases, particularly in diseases of early aging such as HGPS and laminopathy‐associated premature aging. Here, we review nuclear proteostasis and its deregulation in the context of lamin proteins and laminopathies.
Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation of the Persian version of the Attitude Towards Menopause scale
Authors: Bahri Narjes , Sajjadi Moosa , Hunter Myra S. , Mohammadzadeh Fatemeh 
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Objectives
This study describes translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation of the Attitude Towards Menopause (ATM) scale in Persian.

Methods
A standard process was followed for translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the ATM scale into Persian. The content validity index and content validity ratio were used to measure content validity. The construct validity was tested using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. The average variance extracted and construct reliability were used to indicate convergent and discriminant validity, respectively. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the Persian ATM scale were assessed using Cronbach α and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results
A revised version of the ATM scale, including 26 items assigned to seven factors, was obtained in exploratory factor analysis. The factors were interpreted as negative affect, postmenopausal recovery, control of symptoms, sexuality, psychological losses, unpleasant confrontation, and menstrual freedom, explaining 66.18% of the total variance. The factor structure of the scale was confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis (Comparative Fit Index = 0.90, Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.88, Goodness-of-Fit Index = 0.90, Adjusted Goodness-of-Fit Index = 0.86, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.07, χ
2/df = 4.56). The values of Cronbach α coefficient and ICC indicated an acceptable level of reliability (α = 0.70, ICC = 0.89). The construct reliability for all factors was more than or equal to 0.7 except for psychological losses, indicating good discriminating validity. The values of average variances extracted for subscales varied from 0.48 to 0.99, representing adequate convergent validity.

Conclusions
The Persian version of the ATM scale is a reliable and valid tool to evaluate the attitudes of Iranian women toward menopause.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Selected Speakers at Plastic Surgery Conferences
Authors: Ha Grace , Benyamein Paige , Reghunathan Meera , Vatsia Sohrab , Blum Jessica , Gosman Amanda A. 
Published: July 2023

Background:
Disparities in representation amongst academic physicians continue to persist at multiple levels, including the resident selection process and faculty career advancement. This study aimed to evaluate the racial and ethnic representation amongst plastic surgeons who are selected to speak at national and regional plastic surgery conferences.

Methods:
The researchers evaluated selected speakers at 12 plastic surgery annual meetings over 7 years (2014–2020). Racial and ethnic distribution in selected speakers at conferences were compared with those of medical school graduates, plastic surgery residents, and practicing plastic surgeons.

Results:
There were a total of 79 meetings, with 8931 total speaking opportunities and 1276 unique speakers. The percentage of individuals underrepresented in medicine (UIM) is 15.2% in matriculating medical students, 8.9% in active PRS residents, 8.3% in practicing PRS physicians, and 4.7% in invited conference speakers. Within racial/ethnic groups of invited speakers, there was no significant difference in either the average number of fellowships completed or average number of plastic surgery publications (P = 0.44 and 0.39, respectively). No individual UIM speaker had more than 20 speaking opportunities over these 7 years, compared with 17.0% in non-UIM speakers.

Conclusion:
Given the results of the study, the researchers conclude that racial minorities are disproportionately underrepresented as selected speakers at plastic surgery conferences, despite similarities in qualifications such as fellowship training, publication number, and years since board certification.