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Suppression of TGF-β/SMAD signaling by an inner nuclear membrane phosphatase complex

Cytokines of the TGF-β superfamily control essential cell fate decisions via receptor regulated SMAD (R-SMAD) transcription factors. Ligand-induced R-SMAD phosphorylation in the cytosol triggers their activation and nuclear accumulation. We determine how R-SMADs are inactivated by dephosphorylation in the cell nucleus to counteract signaling by TGF-β superfamily ligands. 

A complete genome of an obligately lytic Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteriophage, Minga-mokiny 4

We report the isolation of a bacteriophage with obligately lytic activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa from wastewater. The reported phage, Minga-mokiny 4, appears to belong to the Schitoviridae family, is of the Litunavirus genus, and has a 72,362-bp genome. No known genes associated with lysogeny, bacterial resistance, or virulence were predicted.

Clinical Predictors of Longitudinal Respiratory Exacerbation Outcomes in Young Hospitalised Children

Respiratory infection and wheezing illness are leading causes of hospitalisation in childhood, placing a significant burden on families and healthcare systems. However, reliably distinguishing children at risk of developing persistent disease from those likely to outgrow their symptoms remains a clinical challenge. Earlier identification would allow clinicians to focus care and resources on those most likely to benefit from long-term management, while reducing anxiety and uncertainty about the future for families.

Guiding practice principles for clinicians who work with Indigenous people

Culturally safe healthcare approaches are important to improve outcomes of Indigenous people. Non-Indigenous clinicians are often ill-prepared to provide such healthcare. The NHMRC Centre for Research Excellence (CRE) especially for First Nations Children has been studying for several years how to improve clinical care for Indigenous children with respiratory disease in hospital, clinic, urban, rural and remote settings. 

The effect of moderate-to-late preterm birth on lung function over the first 5 years of life in a South African birth cohort

Preterm birth is associated with increased mortality and morbidity, particularly due to lung disease. Low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) have the highest rates of preterm birth. Infants born extremely preterm rarely survive, so the largest burden is amongst moderate-to-late preterm (MLP) infants. The long-term health impact on MLP children in LMIC is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of MLP birth on lung function trajectories from birth to 5 years in the Drakenstein Child Health Study.