bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maintenance of Bound or Independent Features in Visual Working Memory is Task-dependent
Authors: Cao Ruoyi , Deouell Leon Y.
Published: October 2024

Conflicting findings exist regarding whether features of an object are stored separately or bound together in visual working memory. This controversy is based on an implicit assumption about a default, or fixed, mode of working memory storage. In contrast, here we asked whether the anticipated task might determine the format in which information is maintained in working memory, consistent with its task-oriented function. To test this flexible maintenance hypothesis, we recorded EEG while subjects performed a delayed (Yes/No) recognition task with different requirements and loads. Across three experiments, we compared event-related potentials (ERPs) in conditions with and without the necessity of maintaining conjunctions between features, while controlling for differences in visual stimulation. In Experiment 1 (N=24), involving color-location conjunctions, we identified a delay-period effect characterized by a positive potential shift in central-parietal channels when conjunction was not required by the task. This pattern, distinct from the effect caused by an increased working memory load, was confirmed in Experiment 2 (N=23) with an independent group of subjects using a similar paradigm, while also controlling for the physical appearance of probes. Finally, the observation of color and location conjunction in Experiments 1 and 2 was extended to Color and Orientation conjunction in Experiment 3 (N=22). Collectively, these three experiments provided reliable evidence demonstrating that the maintenance of feature conjunctions in working memory, whether spatial (location) or non-spatial (non-location), depends on the task goal.

Highlights

Task demands determine whether objects are represented as separate features or as conjoined items (maintenance format) in visual working memory.

EEG recordings show differential activity despite similar stimulation, reflecting task demands.

The effect of the task is evident in the early stages of working memory processing.

Flexibility in maintenance format was observed for both color-location and color-orientation conjunctions.

The findings challenge the notion of fixed maintenance format during visual working memory.
Long-read genome assembly of the insect model organismTribolium castaneumreveals spread of satellite DNA in gene-rich regions by recurrent burst events
Authors: Volarić Marin , Despot-Slade Evelin , Veseljak Damira , Mravinac Brankica , Meštrović Nevenka
Published: October 2024

Eukaryotic genomes are replete with satellite DNAs (satDNAs), large stretches of tandemly repeated sequences that are mostly underrepresented in genome assemblies. Here we combined nanopore long-read sequencing with a reference-guided assembly approach to generate an improved, high-quality genome assembly, TcasONT, of the model beetleTribolium castaneum. Enriched by 45 Mb in repetitive regions, the new assembly comprises almost the entire genome sequence. We use the enhanced assembly to conduct global and in-depth analyses of abundant euchromatic satDNAs. Unexpectedly, we show the extensive spread of satDNAs in gene-rich regions, including long arrays. The sequence similarity relationships between satDNA monomers and arrays indicate a recent exchange of satDNA arrays between different chromosomes. We propose a scenario of their genome dynamics characterized by repeated bursts of satDNAs spreading through euchromatin, followed by a process of elongation and homogenization of arrays. We find that suppressed recombination on the X Chromosome has no significant effect on the spread of satDNAs but the X rather tolerates the amplification of satDNAs into longer arrays. Analyses of arrays’ neighboring regions show a tendency of one satDNA to be associated with transposable-like elements. Using 2D electrophoresis followed by Southern blotting, we prove Cast satDNAs’ presence in the fraction of extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA). We point to two mechanisms that enable this satDNA spread to occur: transposition by transposable elements and insertion mediated by eccDNA. The presence of such a large proportion of satDNA in gene-rich regions inevitably gives rise to speculation about their possible influence on gene expression.
Candida albicansisolates contain frequent heterozygous structural variants and transposable elements within genes and centromeres
Authors: Oggenfuss Ursula , Todd Robert T , Soisangwan Natthapon , Kemp Bailey , Guyer Alison , Beach Annette , Selmecki Anna
Published: October 2024

The human fungal pathogenCandida albicansposes a significant burden on global health, causing high rates of mortality and antifungal drug resistance.C. albicansis a heterozygous diploid organism that reproduces asexually. Structural variants (SVs) are an important source of genomic rearrangement, particularly in species that lack sexual recombination. To comprehensively investigate SVs across clinical isolates ofC. albicans, we conducted long read sequencing and genome-wide SV analysis in three distantly related clinical isolates. Our work included a new, comprehensive analysis of transposable element (TE) composition, location and diversity. SVs and TEs are frequently close to coding sequences and many SVs are heterozygous, suggesting that SVs might impact gene and allele-specific expression. Most SVs are uniquely present in only one clinical isolate, indicating that SVs represent a significant source of intra-species genetic variation. We identified multiple, distinct SVs at the centromeres of Chromosome 4 and Chromosome 5, including inversions and transposon polymorphisms. These two chromosomes are often aneuploid in drug resistant clinical isolates, and can form isochromosome structures with breakpoints near the centromere. Further screening of 100 clinical isolates confirmed the widespread presence of centromeric SVs inC. albicans, often appearing in a heterozygous state, indicating that SVs are contributing to centromere evolution inC. albicans. Together, these findings highlight that SVs and TEs are common across diverse clinical isolates ofC. albicansand that the centromeres of this organism are important sites of genome rearrangement.
Coherent high-harmonic generation with laser-plasma beams
Authors: Antipov S. A. , Agapov I. , Brinkmann R. , Ferran Pousa Á. , Martinez de la Ossa A. , Schneidmiller E. A. , Thévenet M.
Published: October 2024

Active energy compression scheme is presently being investigated for future laser-plasma accelerators. This method enables generating laser-plasma accelerator electron beams with a small, ∼10−5, relative slice energy spread. When modulated by a laser pulse, such beams can produce coherent radiation at very high, ∼100th harmonics of the modulation laser wavelength, which are hard to access by conventional techniques. The scheme has a potential of providing additional capabilities for future plasma-based facilities by generating stable, tunable, narrow-band radiation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Theoretical framework for learning through structural plasticity
Authors: Tiddia Gianmarco , Sergi Luca , Golosio Bruno
Published: October 2024

A growing body of research indicates that structural plasticity mechanisms are crucial for learning and memory consolidation. Starting from a simple phenomenological model, we exploit a mean-field approach to develop a theoretical framework of learning through this kind of plasticity, capable of taking into account several features of the connectivity and pattern of activity of biological neural networks, including probability distributions of neuron firing rates, selectivity of the responses of single neurons to multiple stimuli, probabilistic connection rules, and noisy stimuli. More importantly, it describes the effects of stabilization, pruning, and reorganization of synaptic connections. This framework is used to compute the values of some relevant quantities used to characterize the learning and memory capabilities of the neuronal network in training and testing procedures as the number of training patterns and other model parameters vary. The results are then compared with those obtained through simulations with firing-rate-based neuronal network models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fractal surface states in three-dimensional topological quasicrystals
Authors: Chen Zhu-Guang , Lou Cunzhong , Hu Kaige , Lim Lih-King
Published: October 2024

We study topological states of matter in quasicrystals, which do not rely on crystalline order. In the absence of a band-structure description and spin-orbit coupling, we show that a three-dimensional quasicrystal can nevertheless form a topological insulator. It relies on a combination of noncrystallographic rotational symmetry of quasicrystals and electronic orbital space symmetry, which is the quasicrystalline counterpart of the topological crystalline insulator. The resulting topological state obeys a nontrivial twisted bulk-boundary correspondence and lacks a good metallic surface. The topological surface states, localized on the top and bottom planes respecting the quasicrystalline symmetry, exhibit a different kind of multifractality with probability density concentrated mostly on high-symmetry patches. They form a near-degenerate manifold of immobile states whose number scales proportionally to the macroscopic sample size. This can present an opportunity for a platform for topological surface physics distinct from the crystalline counterpart.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quenched disorder-induced chaotic resonance: Optimal stimulus response near the edge of chaos
Authors: Liu Cong , Wu Zhi-Xi , Guan Jian-Yue
Published: October 2024

We study the collective stimulus response in two classical nonlinear dynamical models, the globally coupled bistable oscillators and the excitable FitzHugh-Nagumo neurons, where the coupling strength among the units are randomly distributed with fixed mean and varying variance. We find theoretically and numerically that in both models the ensemble response to a weak periodic stimulus exhibits a bell-shaped amplification manifesting a different type of resonance mechanism, namely, coupling-disorder-induced resonance, as the quenched disorder of coupling increases. Of particular interest is that the optimal collective response emerges near the order-chaos transition point, i.e., at the edge of chaos. As a promising application, we discuss briefly the potential reasonability for exploiting such a type of chaotic resonance to explain the optimal mutual information in the realistic inferior olive. Our results provide explicitly a clue that the disorderly coupled elements may utilize the coupling-disorder-induced chaos to optimize their stimulus response.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Computationally Driven Discovery and Characterization of SIRT3-Activating Compounds that Fully Recover Catalytic Activity under
NAD+
Depletion
Authors: Guan Xiangying , Dumpati Rama Krishna , Munshi Sudipto , Chall Santu , Bose Rahul , Rahnamoun Ali , Reverdy Celina , Errasti Gauthier , Delacroix Thomas , Ghosh Anisha , Chakrabarti Raj
Published: October 2024

Many chronic, age-related disorders could be mitigated by enhancing the activity of enzymes that regulate biochemical signaling pathways, but all known modes of enzyme activation rely on allosteric binding sites, which have only been identified in less than 10% of proteins. Sirtuins (SIRT1-7) are nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)-dependent deacylases playing critical roles in lifespan and age-related diseases. The physiological importance of sirtuins and the reduction in their catalytic activity with the age-related decline in NAD+ levels have stimulated intense interest in designing sirtuin-activating compounds; however, except for substrate-specific allosteric SIRT1 activators, methodologies for rational design of sirtuin-activating compounds are lacking. Here, we introduce methods for the activation of such enzymes that do not rely on allosteric binding sites, and we demonstrate their successful application to the discovery of first-in-class activators of sirtuin enzymes. We establish how all-atom simulations of an enzyme’s active site under the potential of a small molecule modulator can be used to identify molecular properties that achieve desired changes in local enzyme conformational degrees of freedom conducive to the enhancement of catalytic activity. We apply computational high-throughput screening based on this biophysical model for activation of sirtuin enzymes to the major mitochondrial sirtuin SIRT3, which plays a critical role in age-related disorders but does not have a known allosteric site; we thereby identify first-in-class, nonallosteric activators of this enzyme. These compounds are the first reported steady-state activators of the major mitochondrial sirtuin enzyme, and they operate according to a mode of action not shared by any existing drug. Two such compounds can almost double the catalytic efficiency of SIRT3 with respect to NAD+, thus compensating for the loss in SIRT3 activity that occurs due to the age-related decline in NAD+, and they may be developed for therapeutic applications to combat multiple types of age-related disorders. These discoveries establish a foundation for the development of a new class of drugs that function through the activation of enzymes by modulation of local conformational ensembles.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Antecedents and consequences of distributed leadership in Indian higher education
Authors: Madan Anishya Obhrai , Jain Ajay K. , Bolden Richard
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The concept of distributed leadership (DL) has been widely advocated within higher education (HE). Yet, there have been few empirical investigations and little theory development outside Western contexts to date. This study presents a unique conceptualisation of DL and tests it empirically in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study tests a moderated-mediation model by exploring the antecedents and consequences of DL in HE. Standardised questionnaires were drawn from literature and completed by a sample of 269 respondents from six top-ranked (elite) Indian higher education institutions (HEIs). Structural equation modelling (SEM) and multi-group analysis techniques were used to analyse the data.

Findings

Results demonstrated that empowering power structure (EPS) is positively related to DL, whilst participation in decision-making (PDM) strengthened this relationship. Further, it is also noted that DL mediates the relationship between EPS and behavioural outcomes of employee voice and silence.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that a DL approach can be effective at enhancing employee voice and reducing employee silence within HEIs in (and perhaps beyond) India. The research also suggests that where institutions implement EPS alongside opportunities for PDM, this can help foster and sustain DL.

Originality/value

By exploring antecedents (EPS and PDM) and consequences (voice and silence), this paper presents a novel approach to studying DL. The focus on Indian HE offers a more nuanced empirical understanding of DL in a non-Western context.
Blockchain technology and consumers’ organic food consumption: a moderated mediation model of blockchain-based trust and perceived blockchain-related information transparency
Authors: Duong Cong Doanh , Nguyen Thanh Hieu , Ngo Thi Viet Nga , Dao Thanh Tung , Tran Nhat Minh
Published: October 2024

Purpose

While the application of blockchain technology in the organic food supply chain has been increasingly recognized, the extant knowledge of how blockchain-driven traceability influences consumer perceptions and purchase intentions remains underexplored. Grounded in the stimulus-organism-response theory, this study aims to construct a moderated mediation model to examine blockchain-enabled traceability’s direct and indirect impacts on organic food purchase intention through perceived blockchain-related information transparency, considering the moderating role of blockchain-based trust.

Design/methodology/approach

A purposive sample of 5,326 Vietnamese consumers was surveyed using the PROCESS macro to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The findings indicate that blockchain-enabled traceability significantly enhances perceived blockchain-related information transparency, which positively influences organic food purchase intention. Furthermore, blockchain-based trust was found to positively moderate both the direct effect of transparency on purchase intention and the indirect impact of traceability on purchase intention through transparency.

Practical implications

Practical and managerial insights for stakeholders in the organic food sector are also discussed.

Originality/value

These results contribute to the literature by extending the stimulus-organism-response model to the context of blockchain technology in supply chains and highlighting the critical role of trust in moderating the effectiveness of technological innovations.
Corporate sustainability communication to promote pro-environmental behaviour: lessons learned from Balinese women in Indonesia
Authors: Yudarwati Gregoria A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to (1) examine corporate sustainability communication that promotes pro-environmental behaviour and (2) explore women’s experiences and expectations in relation to sustainability communication. Based on the findings, the study proposes a sustainability communication model that can facilitate the needs of both companies and women.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was conducted to examine sustainability communication within the support waste management project of one company in Bali, Indonesia. Following the appreciative inquiry method, focus group discussions involving Balinese women and in-depth interviews were conducted to discover the best experiences and most appropriate ways to participate in waste management initiatives.

Findings

The findings show a gap between women’s understanding of sustainability issues and the information provided by the company. The company and women construct their own understandings of sustainability issues, and each has different capacities, needs, interests and values. This study contends sustainability communication as a process for co-creating meaning. It should begin by using the livelihoods and tangible impacts on women groups as the entry point.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed framework suggests communication intervention that acknowledges the importance of community participation and empowerment as well as three levels of impact: for themselves, their environment, and their communities. This study also recommends further studies in different contexts, as this study was conducted in collectivist rural communities.

Originality/value

The proposed framework accentuates the value of communication processes and management as well as sustainability outcomes, and considers women as actors, rather than as objects.
Discovering Islamic marketing potential in shaping blockchain-­based halal logistic services: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Fernando Yudi , Hendayani Ratih , Jawo Muhammed , Rahamaddulla Syed Radzi , Abdul Aziz Khairunnisa , Maimunah Nia
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the Islamic marketing literature to uncover potential customer adoption behaviours and enhance the effectiveness of blockchain-based halal logistics services in catering to customer demands. The findings of this paper provide substantial contributions to the realms of both halal logistics services and Islamic marketing literature, delineating future paths for research. By delving into halal logistics practices, integration procedures and service provider performance, this paper assists stakeholders in enhancing halal logistics services to meet the changing demands of customers effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a systematic review incorporating bibliometric analysis to examine past and contemporary research topics, selecting and appraising contributions while analysing and consolidating data. A methodical approach has been used to identify, assess and incorporate pertinent studies on Islamic characteristics, traceability technology, blockchain integration and halal logistics practices.

Findings

After screening and analysing 139 selected documents with the VOS viewer, it is evident that among a 1,000 keywords, 15 stand out in terms of frequency and link strength. The research highlights the considerable academic interest in themes such as “blockchain”, “halal logistics” and “supply chain”, underscoring their importance. The findings of this paper help bridge the gap in Islamic marketing by linking technology with religious values. It suggests that the integration of blockchain technology in halal logistics enhances operational efficiency while aligning with both operational and Islamic marketing principles, promoting ethical conduct and transparency as key enablers.

Practical implications

The theoretical significance of this paper lies in establishing a correlation among three key research domains: technology, symbolised by blockchain; customer-centric operations, incorporating the halal supply chain and logistics within Islamic marketing. The outcomes reflect consumer behaviour and Shariah compliance. This integration has the potential to introduce innovative theoretical frameworks that encompass religious ethics in marketing, logistics and technological advancements.

Originality/value

This paper comprehensively analyses the intersection between blockchain technology, halal logistics, supply chain management and Islamic marketing. The paper has comprehensively analysed previous studies and outlined the future research path for blockchain technology in halal logistics and its application in Islamic marketing literature.
Inequalities in emergency service accessibility: spatial analysis of urban infrastructure
Authors: Mansourihanis Omid , Maghsoodi Tilaki Mohammad Javad , Zaroujtaghi Ayda , Tayarani Mohammad , Sheikhfarshi Shiva
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between emergency response times and crash severity in New York City, focusing on spatial disparities and their implications. It examines how these disparities impact disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly regarding traffic safety and emergency service accessibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses comprehensive spatial analysis techniques, including hotspot mapping, network analysis for travel time modeling, local bivariate correlation analysis and service area calculations. It maps crash data alongside emergency facility locations, considering peak-hour traffic. The Area Deprivation Index (ADI) is integrated to evaluate socioeconomic factors influencing accessibility. This approach provides a nuanced understanding of how emergency response times correlate with crash severity at the census block level, accounting for socioeconomic disparities.

Findings

This study reveals significant disparities in emergency response times across New York City. In high-poverty, predominantly minority areas, response times are 2–3 min longer than average, correlating with a 15% increase in severe injury rates. Over 20% of neighborhoods show correlations between response times and crash severity, with positive linear (5.51%), negative linear (10.72%), concave (2.44%) and convex (2.80%) relationships. Blocks with positive linear relationships have a mean ADI rank of 3.918. During peak hours, 69.7% of Manhattan blocks show negative relationships, the highest among boroughs.

Originality/value

This research highlights spatial justice issues in urban emergency response systems, emphasizing the need for localized, data-driven planning and infrastructure adjustments. By integrating the ADI, the multifaceted approach reveals the complex dynamics of socioeconomic factors and emergency service accessibility that have not yet been investigated in diverse urban communities.
Green technology acquisition strategies for chemical enterprises considering competition effects and spillover effects
Authors: Chi Yingying , Chen Lianghua , Hu Yufei , Zu Yafei , Peng Xue , Liu Jinpei
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Green technology, characterized by its environmentally friendly attributes and sustainable practices, has emerged as a crucial tool in harmonizing the economic and ecological benefits. However, the challenge lies in selecting the most effective strategies for acquiring green technology. This paper aims to explore how chemical enterprises choose green technology acquisition strategies across diverse scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the influence of competition effects, spillover effects and their interactions on selecting green technology acquisition strategies, this paper develops three decision models (independent R&D, cooperative R&D and technology introduction). Drawing on the duopoly game theory as its theoretical framework, this paper delves into the examination of the economic and environmental benefits within distinct scenarios.

Findings

Cooperative R&D excels in promoting green technology R&D when spillover effects are strong, while independent R&D demonstrates superiority when spillover effects are weak. The threshold for the strength of spillover effects is related to competition effects. Additionally, cooperative R&D typically yields greater financial advantages than independent R&D and technology introduction. Moreover, the economic and environmental benefits may not be optimized simultaneously. Only enterprises that satisfy low competition and spillover effects as well as high competition and spillover effects, can achieve win-win economic and environmental benefits.

Originality/value

Although green technology R&D and introduction are alternative strategies, they have typically been considered separately in prior literature. This study attempts to incorporate green technology R&D and introduction into a strategic system to investigate the selection of green technology acquisition strategies, taking into account competition effects, spillover effects and their interactions.
Time-variation in bank income and expense betas
Authors: Brigida Matt , Brigida Kathleen
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To determine whether banks are able to hedge interest rate risk by matching interest income and expense betas each year, or only on average over longer time periods.

Design/methodology/approach

We use state-space methods to estimate time-varying income and expense betas at the yearly frequency.

Findings

We find evidence that banks do match interest income to expense betas at the annual frequency, and the largest banks do the best job of matching interest income to expense sensitivities over time. Conversely, the smallest banks have the largest lag in matching interest income betas to changes in expense betas and have the largest net interest margins (NIM) sensitivity to the short-term rates.

Originality/value

Previous research was limited to constant deposit betas.
The intermorph breeding system is responsible for reproductive success in heterostylous Nyctanthes arbor‐tristis L.
Authors: Chaudhary Neha , Ghosh Dipayan , Kumar Narendra
Published: October 2024

Heterostyly is a specialized reproductive system associated with self‐ and intramorph incompatibility. It reinforces the intermorph breeding system in heterostylous plant species. However, distyly has not been comprehensively studied in Nyctanthes arbor‐tristis. The present study demonstrates the floral traits, breeding system, fruit and seed set, and morph ratio in distylous N. arbor‐tristis. The length of style and filament showed reciprocal herkogamy between long style (L‐morph) and short style (S‐morph). Flower size, corolla tube size, stamen and anther length, ovary length, and pollen diameter were larger in S‐morph. However, the style was longer in L‐morph. Our results demonstrated strongly incompatible self‐ and intramorph pollination combinations. The intermorph pollination was compatible, showing normal pollen tube growth throughout the style and ovary. The embryo formation was also higher in intermorph interaction. Moreover, the fruit setting was higher when the intermorph plants grew in the vicinity of natural conditions. Collectively, all data indicate that N. arbor‐tristis is a distylous species with a self‐incompatible breeding system, resulting in less seed formation in nature.
Conceptualizations of ‘race’: surveys of Polish academics on the race concept
Authors: Kaszycka Katarzyna A.
Published: October 2024

Recent studies suggest that race is no longer viewed as a biological category by most anthropologists in the United States, but less empirical work has been carried out in other countries. In this study, we engaged the Polish academic community in anthropology (biological and cultural) and biology by conducting surveys to assess how its members approach and conceptualize race in these disciplines. We surveyed participants (a total of 270 respondents) on their views on the existence of races (i.e. whether humans may be subdivided into biological races), whether race is a concept that is needed in science, what the term ‘race’ should symbolize, and whether the respondents were familiar with the term ‘social race’. The results demonstrate that although the view on the reality of races is still generally shared by the majority of the studied academic community, an awareness of the non‐existence of races in our species has emerged among a group of biological anthropologists. Both biologists and cultural anthropologists in Poland associated race mostly with a category of biological classification, while for biological anthropologists, race primarily symbolized a relic of the past. The article emphasizes the importance of becoming acquainted with the debate over race in academic discourse as well as the role of education in shaping attitudes towards race.
Adaptive divergence in reproductive seasonality and underlying physiological features fit Rattus norvegicus to live as opportunistic breeders
Authors: LI Xixuan , LI Ning , YAO Dandan , LIU Yu , SONG Ying , WANG Dawei , FENG Zhiyong , LIU Xiaohui
Published: October 2024

How organisms respond to complex environments is one of the unsolved problems in ecology. Life history patterns of a species provide essential information on how different populations may respond and adapt to environmental changes. Compared to typical seasonal breeders, which have limited distributions, the worldwide distribution of brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) across highly complex and divergent habitats suggests they exhibit exceptional adaptiveness. However, the difference in physiological mechanisms by which brown rats respond and adapt to markedly different environments is seldom investigated. Here, we reveal a significant divergence in reproductive seasonality and environmental responses between two brown rat subspecies: one subspecies, R. n. caraco, lives in the temperate zone, and another subspecies, R. n. norvegicus, lives in the subtropical region. Although R. n. caraco displayed a significantly higher reproductive seasonality than R. n. norvegicus, both subspecies adapted to sub‐optimal breeding conditions mainly by regulating the seminal vesicle rather than testis development. Especially in responding to severe winter conditions in high‐latitude regions, bodyweight‐dependent recovery of testicular development in adults enables R. n. caraco to initiate reproduction more rapidly when conditions are suited. These findings elucidate a regulatory process of how brown rats live as opportunistic breeders by benefiting from enhanced semen production.
Optimization of extraction process of polysaccharide from Phylloporia fontanesiae and its simulated digestion in vitro
Authors: Ju Hao , Fang Wei , Li Hai‐Huang , Fu Ze , Gong Pi‐Xian , Liu Yang , Lu Siqi , Wu Yan‐Chao , Li Hui‐Jing
Published: October 2024

In this study, Phylloporia fontanesiae polysaccharide was successfully isolated through a sequential water extraction and alcohol precipitation process. Utilizing the Box–Behnken design, the extraction process was optimized based on single‐factor experiments, considering variables such as the material‐to‐liquid ratio, extraction temperature, extraction time, and the number of extractions. The polysaccharide composition of P. fontanesiae is predominantly composed of mannose, glucuronic acid, glucose, and galactose, with a molar mass ratio of 4.31:4.10:36.83:1, along with minor amounts of aminoglucose and fucose. The polysaccharide fraction of P. fontanesiae comprises two distinct components, possessing relative molecular masses of 8.85 kDa and 134.03 kDa. Notably, the polysaccharide exhibited significant antioxidant activity. After undergoing simulated gastrointestinal digestion, no significant changes were observed in its antioxidant activity, molecular weight, or monosaccharide composition. This study not only enhanced the extraction efficiency of P. fontanesiae polysaccharide but also provided valuable insights into its composition, structure, and digestion characteristics.

Practical Application

The optimum extraction process, stability, and antioxidant activity of Phylloporia fontanesiae polysaccharide during simulated digestion of gastrointestinal tract were studied. The results provide a theoretical basis for the development and application of this polysaccharide in the field of food and health products.
Quinoa sourdough fermented with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CRL 1964, a powerful tool to enhance the nutritional features of quinoa snacks
Authors: Sandez Penidez Sergio Hernan , Velasco Manini Marina Andrea , Gerez Carla Luciana , Rollán Graciela Celestina
Published: October 2024

The remarkable nutritional attributes and potential health advantages of quinoa make it an important candidate for developing innovative ready‐to‐eat food products. This work aimed to develop a functional ready‐to‐eat snack based on quinoa sourdough fermented by Lactiplantibacillus (L.) plantarum CRL 1964. Phytate, phosphates, and soluble mineral content (Fe, Mn, Zn, Mg, Ca, and P) were determined in snacks formulated with sourdough and control doughs. An in vitro digestion model was performed on quinoa snacks to assess their mineral bioaccessibility and dialyzability. Phytate content was significantly lower (ca. 42.3%) while phosphates were higher (ca. eightfold) in quinoa‐based sourdough and sourdough‐based snacks (S1964) than in controls. Soluble minerals were higher (10.2%–32.0%) in S1964 than in controls. Mineral bioaccessibility and mineral dialyzability were also higher (ca. 24.5%) among S1964 and control snacks. The developed quinoa snack made from sourdough fermented by L. plantarum CRL 1964 had less phytate concentration and high bioaccessibility of minerals. These findings underscore the relevance of this innovative technology in creating food products that are not only highly nutritious but also represent a valuable contribution to the market of healthy foods.

Practical Application

In this study, a novel snack based on quinoa sourdough with improved nutritional properties was developed. The addition of quinoa sourdough fermented by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CRL 1964 to the preparation of quinoa snacks resulted in a product with a lower concentration of phytate and a higher content of phosphates and minerals (soluble, bioaccessible, and dialyzable). These results underline the efficacy of the new snack as a promising alternative to conventional mineral fortification methods. This innovative approach holds promise for addressing nutritional deficiencies and the demand for healthy snack options in today's market.
Impact of synbiotics on disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus: Results from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mirfeizi Zahra , Mahmoudi Mahmoud , jokar Mohammad Hassan , Sahebari Maryam , Noori Elmira , Mehrad‐Majd Hasan , Barati Mehdi , Faridzadeh Arezoo
Published: October 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects various organs in the body. In SLE, inflammatory cytokines play a crucial role in initiating and sustaining the inflammatory process. Synbiotics may help modulate these inflammatory cytokines. This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial aimed to assess the impact of synbiotics intervention on interleukin‐17A (IL‐17A) levels, disease activity, and inflammatory factors in patients with SLE. Fifty SLE patients were randomly assigned to receive either standard therapy plus synbiotics (consisting of Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and the prebiotic fructooligosaccharides) or standard therapy alone for 2 months. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in both protein and mRNA levels of IL‐17A, as well as in the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 score, within the synbiotics group after the intervention compared to baseline. In contrast, the placebo group did not experience significant changes in IL‐17A levels or disease activity. Synbiotic supplementation shows potential as an adjunctive therapeutic approach for SLE management; however, further research is needed to elucidate its underlying mechanisms.

Practical Application

This study explores the use of synbiotics as a supplementary treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus, which is typically managed with immunosuppressive therapies.
“Showing up to the conversation”: Qualitative reflections from a diversity, equity, and inclusion book club with emergency medicine leadership
Authors: Alexander Andreia B. , Palmer Megan , Palmer Dajanae , Pettit Katie
Published: October 2024

Background

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in health care fosters many positive outcomes including improved patient care. DEI initiatives are often created by or require buy‐in from departmental leaders with low DEI literacy. Book clubs are one way to develop DEI literacy. The purpose of this paper is to describe how leaders in the department of emergency medicine (DEM) process the information gained from reading a DEI book through discussion in a book club setting and explore how participation enhances their DEI literacy and fosters self‐reflection.

Methods

This was a qualitative exploratory study based on a constructivist approach. Data were analyzed by four researchers using inductive thematic analysis techniques.

Results

Sixty‐eight leaders within the DEM participated in 11 book clubs. Nine themes were identified (examination of privilege, initial reaction to discussion about racism, discomfort, worry, self‐reflection, release, role recognition, readiness, and education). After prompted examination of their own privilege participants moved through a model of perceived readiness to act. Participants started with feeling paralyzed by the work's enormity or becoming defensive. They then moved toward discomfort with discussions of racism and systemic racism and progressed to discussions around worrying that they were contributing to noninclusive environments. After a period of self‐reflection, participants tended to release their paralysis, push aside their defensiveness, accept the role of discomfort, and express the importance of education on these issues. Participants then recognized their role in creating inclusive environments and started discussing what they can do about it, which, for many, was to show up to the conversation. An underlying driver of movement through this model was the education that was provided through the book.

Conclusions

By addressing privilege and systemic inequities through the reflective practice and dialogue of a book club, participants demonstrated a growing commitment and perceived readiness to advancing inclusive practices within medicine.
Benchmarks defining high‐quality sperm in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Sadeghi Niloofar , Mustoe Aaryn , Ross Corinna N. , McCarrey John R. , Hermann Brian P.
Published: October 2024

Background

Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) are increasingly recognized as valuable nonhuman primates (NHPs) for biomedical research due to their small size and short reproductive cycle and lifespan relative to other NHP species. Maximizing the utility of captive research marmosets, including genetically manipulated animals, will require the use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) including manipulation, storage, and sharing of marmoset sperm. Here, we identify characteristics of high‐quality semen samples and validate a simple method for selecting high‐quality sperm.

Methods

Computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA) was used to evaluate sperm quality in semen samples collected from 44 marmosets and assessed the use of the swim‐up method for the selection of high‐quality sperm was also tested in half the samples as a potential means to optimize in vitro fertilization or intrauterine insemination.

Results

For each reference parameter, samples at or below the 5th percentile were categorized as abnormal sperm, while those above the 5th percentile were considered to be normal. Among normal samples, those at or above the 50th percentile were categorized as high‐quality. High‐quality semen samples exhibited the following characteristics: semen volume ≥ 30 µL; sperm count ≥ 107/ejaculate; total motility ≥ 35%; and normal morphology ≥ 5%. Sperm isolated by swim‐up exhibited superior sperm progressive motility (19.7% ± 4.5 vs. 5.6% ± 2.1; P = 0.01) and normal morphology (13.1 ± 1.59 vs. 7.65 ± 1.1; P < 0.001) compared with unselected sperm.

Conclusion

This study defines robust, statistically supported reference values for evaluating marmoset semen samples to assist with the identification of optimal sperm donors and the selection of high‐quality sperm samples for assisted reproduction. Ultimately, these reference values combined with a validated selection method will contribute to consistent standards for the international sharing of genetically diverse and/or gene‐edited marmoset sperm for research and reproduction.
Performance evaluation of an automatically controlled transcutaneous energy transfer system powering left ventricular assist device
Authors: Nair Sarath S. , Nagesh D. S. , Shenoy Sachin J. , Harikrishnan S.
Published: October 2024

Background

The survival rate of LVAD recipients may be improved by eliminating the infection failure mode at the percutaneous lead entry site. Wireless powering through a Transcutaneous Energy Transfer System (TETS) is a promising solution for achieving this. However, automatic controls need to be employed to compensate for the variations in efficiency and power transfer due to changes in load and coil‐to‐coil gaps.

Methods

This article discusses the results of in vitro and animal models performance evaluation of an automatically controlled TETS for powering a Left Ventricular Assist Device.

Results

It was found that power up to 20 W could be transferred at an axial gap of 30 mm. A 5% variation in speed and a 2% change in flow rate are observed with the change in tissue thickness, in porcine carcass model.

Conclusions

The LVAD could be operated at the required RPM irrespective of the change in axial positions.
Peruvian Migration and Community Organisation in Argentina: Transnational and Intergenerational Knowledge in the Social Production of Habitat
Authors: Magliano María José , Perissinotti María Victoria
Published: October 2024

This paper analyses the transnational and intergenerational knowledge that Peruvian migrant women bring to the social production of habitat in Argentinean cities. In a context of increasing difficulties for Peruvian families to access urban space, this study highlights migrant women's capacity for agency through community organisation. Based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collected from research carried out in a neighbourhood built by migrants in the city of Cordoba, the article shows that urban experiences of Peruvian women reveal not only spatial segregation, but also a subaltern urbanism that attempts to ensure the sustainability of life.
Nicorandil treatment improves survival and spatial learning in aged granulin knockout mice
Authors: Niedowicz Dana M. , Wang Wang‐Xia , Prajapati Paresh , Zhong Yu , Fister Shuling , Rogers Colin B. , Sompol Pradoldej , Powell David K. , Patel Indumati , Norris Christopher M. , Saatman Kathryn E. , Nelson Peter T.
Published: October 2024

Mutations in the human granulin (GRN) gene are associated with multiple diseases, including dementia disorders such as frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and limbic‐predominant age‐related TDP‐43 encephalopathy (LATE). We studied a Grn knockout (Grn‐KO) mouse model in order to evaluate a potential therapeutic strategy for these diseases using nicorandil, a commercially available agonist for the ABCC9/Abcc9‐encoded regulatory subunit of the “K+ATP” channel that is well‐tolerated in humans. Aged (13 months) Grn‐KO and wild‐type (WT) mice were treated as controls or with nicorandil (15 mg/kg/day) in drinking water for 7 months, then tested for neurobehavioral performance, neuropathology, and gene expression. Mortality was significantly higher for aged Grn‐KO mice (particularly females), but there was a conspicuous improvement in survival for both sexes treated with nicorandil. Grn‐KO mice performed worse on some cognitive tests than WT mice, but Morris Water Maze performance was improved with nicorandil treatment. Neuropathologically, Grn‐KO mice had significantly increased levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐immunoreactive astrocytosis but not ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA‐1)‐immunoreactive microgliosis, indicating cell‐specific inflammation in the brain. Expression of several astrocyte‐enriched genes, including Gfap, were also elevated in the Grn‐KO brain. Nicorandil treatment was associated with a subtle shift in a subset of detected brain transcript levels, mostly related to attenuated inflammatory markers. Nicorandil treatment improved survival outcomes, cognition, and inflammation in aged Grn‐KO mice.