Publications by authors named "R Alani"

Background: Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) is the most common malignant brain tumor in infants, and more than 60% of children with ATRT die from their tumor. ATRT is associated with mutational inactivation/deletion of , a member of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, suggesting that epigenetic events play a critical role in tumor development and progression. Moreover, disruption of SWI/SNF allows unopposed activity of epigenetic repressors, which contribute to tumorigenicity.

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Unlabelled: Epigenetic complexes tightly regulate gene expression and colocalize with RNA splicing machinery; however, the consequences of these interactions are uncertain. Here, we identify unique interactions of the CoREST repressor complex with RNA splicing factors and their functional consequences in tumorigenesis. Using mass spectrometry, in vivo binding assays, and cryo-EM we find that CoREST complex-splicing factor interactions are direct and perturbed by the CoREST complex inhibitor, corin, leading to extensive changes in RNA splicing in melanoma and other malignancies.

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Article Synopsis
  • Public space initiatives (PSIs) in African cities can improve health and social well-being, but there's a lack of research on their effectiveness and implementation across the continent.
  • This study synthesizes existing literature to assess the characteristics, locations, and outcomes of PSIs, finding that sports initiatives are predominant and that most research comes from South Africa.
  • Key challenges for PSIs include limited funding, historical marginalization, and competing land uses, highlighting the need for long-term evaluations and better collaboration for sustainable health-promoting public spaces.
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Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a highly aggressive sarcoma that may be seen in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) or occur sporadically. While surgery is the primary treatment for localized MPNST with a 61.9% overall survival rate, metastatic disease is often fatal due to resistance to systemic therapies which underscores the urgent need for effective treatments.

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In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Jordan declared a state of emergency on 19 March 2020, implementing a 10-week curfew and closing all educational institutions. Consequently, online learning commenced to ensure educational continuity amid the pandemic. The aim of this study was to assess medical students' perception of online teaching during this period in a limited-resource setting and to identify associated challenges.

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