bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial Complex I and ROS control synapse function through opposing pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms
Authors: Mallik Bhagaban , Frank C. Andrew
Published: January 2025

Neurons require high amounts energy, and mitochondria help to fulfill this requirement. Dysfunc-tional mitochondria trigger problems in various neuronal tasks. Using theDrosophilaneuromuscular junction (NMJ) as a model synapse, we previously reported that Mitochondrial Complex I (MCI) subunits were required for maintaining NMJ function and growth. Here we report tissue-specific ad-aptations at the NMJ when MCI is depleted. InDrosophilamotor neurons, MCI depletion causes profound cytological defects and increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). But in-stead of diminishing synapse function, neuronal ROS triggers a homeostatic signaling process that maintains normal NMJ excitation. We identify molecules mediating this compensatory response. MCI depletion in muscles also enhances local ROS. But high levels of muscle ROS cause destruc-tive responses: synapse degeneration, mitochondrial fragmentation, and impaired neurotransmis-sion. In humans, mutations affecting MCI subunits cause severe neurological and neuromuscular diseases. The tissue-level effects that we describe in theDrosophilasystem are potentially relevant to forms of mitochondrial pathogenesis.
A Linear Mixed Effects Model for Evaluating Synthetic Gene Circuits
Authors: Partipilo Gina , Coleman Sarah M , Gao Yang , Miniel Mahfoud Ismar E , Wilke Claus O , Alper Hal S , Keitz Benjamin K
Published: January 2025

A significant advancement in synthetic biology is the development of synthetic gene circuits with predictive Boolean logic. However, there is no universally accepted or applied statistical test to analyze the performance of these circuits. Many basic statistical tests fail to capture the predicted logic (OR, AND, etc.) and most studies neglect statistical analysis entirely. As synthetic gene circuits shift toward advanced applications, primarily in computing, biosensing, and human health, it is critical to standardize the statistical methods used to evaluate gate success. Here, we propose the application of a linear mixed effects model to analyze and quantify genetic Boolean logic gate performance. First, we analyzed 144 currently published Boolean logic gates for trends and used unsupervised machine learning (k-means clustering) to validate the statistical model. Next, we utilized the model to generate estimates for the fixed effect of the ON state, β, as a general descriptor of the Boolean nature of a circuit and used Monte Carlo simulations to recommend sample sizes for evaluating gate performance. Finally, we examined β as a holistic metric for circuit performance using a series of nested repressor OR gates with intentionally degraded performance. We observed a linear correlation between β and the predicted translation rate, highlighting the use of β for the forward design of new Boolean gates. In summary, we utilized a linear mixed effects model to describe synthetic gene circuits and determined that the fixed effect, β, is an appropriate descriptor of gate behavior that can be used to statistically evaluate performance.
The deep winding at the brain surface: replicating a historical report associating the 'bridged' central sulcus with the pli de passage fronto-pariétal moyen
Authors: Schweizer Renate , Muellen Anna Marie , Stropel Julius
Published: January 2025

In 1876, the anatomist Heschl surveyed 1,087 brains identifying six cases of a unilateral "bridged" central sulcus (CS) at the brain surface. He also measured the height of a minor "deep winding" at the same location within the CS in the remaining 1,081 brains, reporting a distribution skewed towards significantly increased heights. These observations supported his hypothesis that the "bridged" CS represents an extreme form of the "deep winding" within the CS. In this replication we examined structural MRI data from an equally large dataset of 1,112 participants of the Human Connectome Project young adult (HCP-YA) dataset. Through visual inspection, we identified nine cases of a "bridged" CS, confirming its prevalence of less than 1%. The height of the "deep winding", referred to in the HCP-YA dataset as the pli de passage fronto-parietal moyen (PPfpm), was extracted from 1,983 MRI-based hemispheric depth profiles. The resulting PPfpm height distribution, although wider, still mirrored Heschls findings, showing a similar skew towards larger heights. Further analyses of the twin data within the HCP-YA dataset indicated a slightly increased prevalence of the "bridged" CS in monozygotic and dizygotic twins compared to non-twin individuals, though no concordance of "bridged" CS was observed in monozygotic twin pairs. This replication study validates both of Heschls observations, describes additional factors that might influence the prevalence of the "bridged" CS, and refines the characterization of the "deep winding" height distribution. Together, these findings reaffirm and expand historical insights into the intricate anatomical organization of the CS.
Rewriting nuclear epigenetic scripts in mitochondrial diseases as a strategy for heteroplasmy control
Authors: Pérez María J. , Colombo Rocío B. , Real Sebastián M. , Branham María T. , Laurito Sergio R. , Moraes Carlos T. , Mayorga Lía
Published: January 2025

Mitochondrial diseases, caused by mutations in either nuclear or mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), currently have limited treatment options. For mtDNA mutations, reducing mutant-to-wild-type mtDNA ratio (heteroplasmy shift) is a promising therapeutic option, though current approaches face significant challenges. Previous research has shown that severe mitochondrial dysfunction triggers an adaptive nuclear epigenetic response, characterized by changes in DNA methylation, which does not occur or is less important when mitochondrial impairment is subtle. Building on this, we hypothesized that targeting nuclear DNA methylation could selectively compromise cells with high levels of mutant mtDNA, favor ones with lower mutant load and thereby reduce overall heteroplasmy.

Using cybrid models harboring two disease-causing mtDNA mutations—m.13513G>A and m.8344A>G—at varying heteroplasmy levels, we discovered that both the mutation type and load distinctly shape the nuclear DNA methylome. We found this methylation pattern to be critical for the survival of high-heteroplasmy cells but not for the low-heteroplasmy ones. Consequently, by disrupting this epigenetic programming with FDA approved DNA methylation inhibitors we managed to selectively impact high-heteroplasmy cybrids and reduce heteroplasmy. These findings were validated in both cultured cells and anin vivoxenograft model.

Our study reveals a previously unrecognized role for nuclear DNA methylation in regulating cell survival in the context of mitochondrial heteroplasmy. This insight not only advances our understanding of mitochondrial-nuclear interactions but also introduces epigenetic modulation as a possible therapeutic avenue for mitochondrial diseases.
Molecular and Pathological Characterization of Cervicovaginal Specimens Evince Significant Protection Against HPV Infections, Bacterial Vaginosis, and Epithelial Cell Abnormalities by Lactobacillus species
Authors: Osei Sekyere John , Trama Jason , Adelson Martin E , Trikannad Charulata , DiBlasi Desiree , Schuster Rachel , Yang Jing Jing , Mordechai Eli
Published: January 2025

Background: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) results in dysbiosis in the vaginal microbiome and facilitates secondary human papilloma virus (HPV) infections, which can cause cervical abnormalities. The effects of Lactobacilli on BV-HPV infections and cervicovaginal pathology were investigated. Method. Electronic molecular and cytology laboratory results, and demographic records of 19,105 females screened for BV, HPV, and cervical cancer between August 2021 and April 2023 were collected. After data cleaning and reorganization, 15, 607 sample results were used. The data was subjected to epidemiological, statistical, and machine learning analyses to identify patterns, correlations, associations, and interactive effects of age, State, Lactobacilli, BV-associated pathogens, high-risk HPV (hrHPV) genotypes, BV, and cervical cytology. Results: The final dataset comprised of data from anonymized females (n = 15541, 99.57%), males (n = 13, 0.08%) and unknown gender (n = 53, 0.34%) between 14 and 95 years from 32 States and Washington D.C. Most samples were BV positive (n = 8282, 53.07%) and/or NILM (n = 11749) followed by 14.29% ASCUS (n = 2231), 7.14% LSIL (n = 1115), 1.04% RCC (n = 163), 0.53% HSIL (n = 82), 0.39% ASC-H (n = 61), and 0.16% AGC (n = 25). HPV-positive samples had higher BV pathogens and BV-positive diagnosis (between 51.90% and 68.60%) than BV-negative diagnosis. Lactobacillus gasseri (79.75%), Lactobacillus jensenii (82.68%), Lactobacillus crispatus (90.91%) were mostly found in BV-negative and NILM specimens. BV and ECA outcomes were significantly associated with age and State. Statistical, correlation, and machine learning models predictively confirmed these findings. Conclusion: L. crispatus, followed by L. gasseri and L. jensenii, significantly maintains a healthy cervicovaginal microbiome by inhibiting harmful bacterial pathogens and high-risk HPV subtypes; L. iners have an opposing or neutral effect.
Isoform-level discovery, quantification and fusion analysis from single-cell and spatial long-read RNA-seq data with Bambu-Clump
Authors: Sim Andre , Ling Min Hao , Chen Ying , Lu Han , See Yi Xiang , Perrin Arnaud , Leng Agnes Ong Bee , Cao Elaine Yiqun , Chia Burton , Liu Jinyue , Wüstefeld Torsten , Shin Jay W. , Göke Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Single cell and spatial transcriptomics have dramatically changed how we can profile RNA from heterogenous biological samples. Combining single cell and spatial profiling with long read RNA-Seq promises to enable the discovery and quantification of individual RNA isoforms at the single-cell level. However, highly multiplexed data such as from a single cell experiment only generates a limited number of reads for each cell, constituting a major challenge for transcript discovery and quantification with existing approaches that usually have limited power for samples with low sequencing depth.

Here we present Bambu-Clump, a computational method that performs transcript discovery and quantification from single cell and spatial long read RNA-Seq data using information from both each cell and the cell cluster. Using this approach, Bambu-Clump provides the most accurate transcript discovery compared to other existing methods, and improves transcript quantification compared to methods that rely on estimates derived from single cells. We apply Bambu-Clump to identify fusion transcripts in single-cells, compare 5’ and 3’ selection protocols, and identify novel isoform cell-type markers in spatial mouse brain data. Together, Bambu-Clump provides an easy-to-use, efficient, and accurate method for analysing individual isoform expression for single cells and cell clusters across multiple datasets and replicates from long read RNA-Seq.
Effect of combining lower- and higher-value monthly cash transfers with nutrition-sensitive agriculture, male engagement, and psychosocial intervention on maternal depressive symptoms in rural Malawi: a secondary analysis of a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bliznashka Lilia , Nwabuikwu Odiche , Ahun Marilyn , Roschnik Natalie , Phiri Brenda , Gondwe-Matekesa Esnatt , Kachinjika Monice , Mvula Peter , Munthali Alister , Maggio Daniel , Katundu Mangani , Maleta Kenneth , Gladstone Melissa , Gelli Aulo ,   MAZIKO trial team
Published: January 2025

Maternal depression affects one in five women in Malawi. Integrated interventions simultaneously addressing multiple risks are a promising strategy to improve mental health. This study evaluated the impact of a nutrition-sensitive social behaviour change (SBC) interventions (agriculture and livelihoods, male engagement, and Caring for the Caregiver) with or without cash transfers on maternal perinatal depression during the lean season in rural Malawi. A midline survey for a cluster-randomised controlled trial was conducted, where 156 clusters were randomly assigned to four arms (39 clusters/arm): (1) Standard of care (SoC), (2) SBC, (3) SBC+low cash (USD17 per month), and (4) SBC+high cash (USD43 per month). Pregnant women and mothers of children <2 years of age (n=2,682) were enrolled at baseline (May-June 2022). A subsample of 1,303 women were followed-up at midline (November-December 2023). Maternal perinatal depression was assessed using the Self-reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20) with a score of ≥8 indicating symptoms consistent with depression. Intervention effects were estimated using linear mixed effects models. At midline, SBC+high cash reduced depression scores relative to SoC (mean difference (MD) -1.13 (95% CI -1.96, -0.31)) but had no impact on the proportion of women with depressive symptoms. SBC+low cash and SBC alone had no impact on depression scores or the proportion of women with depressive symptoms. Relative to SBC alone, adding cash to SBC reduced depressions scores and the proportion of women with depressive symptoms regardless of the size of the cash transfer. Cash transfers integrated with SBC can benefit maternal perinatal depression health in rural Malawi during the lean season.
[11C]Carfentanil PET Whole-Body Imaging of Mu-Opioid Receptors: A First In-Human Study
Authors: Dubroff Jacob G. , Hsieh Chia-Ju , Wiers Corinde E. , Lee Hsiaoju , Li Elizabeth J. , Schubert Erin K. , Mach Robert H. , Kranzler Henry R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Mu-opioid receptors (MORs) are G-coupled protein receptors with a high affinity for both endogenous and exogenous opioids. MORs are widely expressed in the central nervous system (CNS), peripheral organs, and the immune system. They mediate pain and reward and have been implicated in the pathophysiology of opioid, cocaine, and other substance use disorders. Using the long axial field-of-view (LAFOV) PennPET Explorer instrument and the MOR selective radioligand [11C]carfentanil ([11C]CFN), we measured thewhole-bodydistribution of MORs in 13 healthy humans. We also examined sex differences in MOR distribution at baseline and after pretreatment with the MOR antagonist naloxone.

Methods

Six female and seven male healthy subjects underwent two [11C]CFN PET imaging sessions—one at baseline and one immediately following pre-treatment with the MOR antagonist naloxone (13 mcg/kg). Whole-body PET imaging was performed on the PennPET Explorer, a 142-cm axial bore instrument. [11C]CFN brain distribution volume ratios (DVRs) were determined using the occipital cortex and the visual cortex within it as reference regions. For peripheral organ DVRs, the descending aorta and proximal extremity muscle (biceps/triceps) were used as reference regions.

Results

Naloxone blockade reduced MOR availability by 40-50% in the caudate, putamen, thalamus, amygdala, and ventral tegmentum, brain regions known to express high levels of MORs. Women showed greater receptor occupancy in the thalamus, amygdala, hippocampus and frontal and temporal lobes and a greater naloxone-induced reduction in thalamic MOR availability than men (p’s <0.05). For determining brain MOR availability, there was less variance in the visual cortex than the occipital cortex reference region. For peripheral MOR determination, the descending aorta reference region showed less variance than the extremity muscle, but both showed blocking effects of naloxone.

Conclusions

[11C]CFN whole- body PET scans are useful for understanding MOR physiology under both baseline and blocking conditions. Extra-CNS reference regions may be useful for quantifying radiotracers when a region devoid of binding in the CNS is unavailable. The LAFOV PET instrument was useful for measuring changes in the short-lived radiotracer [11C]CFN, with and without naloxone blocking. Further research is needed to evaluate the behavioral and clinical relevance of sex differences in naloxone-MOR interactions.
Integrating plasma, MRI, and cognitive biomarkers for personalized prediction of decline across cognitive domains
Authors: Moradi Elaheh , Dahnke Robert , Imani Vandad , Gaser Christian , Solomon Alina , Tohka Jussi ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2025

Background

Plasma biomarkers are associated with cognitive performance and decline in Alzheimer’s disease, making them promising for early detection. This study investigates their predictive value, combined with non-invasive measures, for cognitive decline in non-demented individuals.

Methods

We developed a machine-learning approach incorporating plasma biomarkers (Aβ42/40, p-tau181, NfL), MRI, demographics, APOE4, and cognitive assessments. Various models were designed to predict decline rates across cognitive domains and assess their relevance in predicting dementia progression.

Results

Cross-validated correlations between predicted and actual cognitive decline rates were 0.50 for memory, 0.49 for language, 0.42 for executive function, and 0.44 for visuospatial ability. MRI showed greater predictive importance than plasma biomarkers. Among plasma biomarkers, NfL and p-tau181 outperformed Aβ42/40.

Conclusion

Plasma biomarkers, especially when combined with MRI, APOE4, and cognitive measures, have the potential to predict memory decline and assess conversion risk, even in cognitively unimpaired individuals.
MaiZaic: a robust end-to-end pipeline for mosaicking freely flown aerial video of agricultural fields
Authors: Kharismawati Dewi Endah , Kazic Toni
Published: January 2025

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly used for high throughput phenotyping. In principle, freely flown vehicles would permit real-time flexibility in identifying and scouting regions of interest. Mosaicking multiple images provides a high resolution global image and consumer-grade UAVs offer low cost, ease of flying, and excellent RGB cameras. The vehicles’ inaccurate telemetry complicates estimating the homographies between pairs of frames, the standard mosaicking approach. Moreover, errors accumulate during computation, distorting later portions of the mosaic. Finally, crop fields are particularly challenging to mosaic because their planting is so regular and the plants are so similar, eliminating distinctive features that could guide mosaicking. We proposeMaiZaic, an end-to-end pipeline that dynamically samples video frames using optical flow, automates camera and gimbal calibration, estimates homographies with an unsupervised convolutional neural network, detects shots among frames, and generates mini-mosaics. Together, these techniques significantly reduce errors in the output mosaics. Our deep learning model is trained on a comprehensive video dataset comprising different flight trajectories, maize lines, growth stages, and augmented illumination data.MaiZaicis more accurate and faster than ASIFT and more robust than our earlierCorNetandCorNetv2. We demonstrateMaiZaic’s effectiveness in generating accurate mosaics of imagery captured by freely-flown UAVs and explore its generalizability.

Core ideas

MaiZaicis an end-to-end pipeline to mosaic freely flown agricultural imagery captured with consumer-grade UAVs.

MaiZaicintroduces novel algorithms that efficiently choose video frames, calibrate, and mosaic the imagery.

Our unsupervised deep homography estimator,CorNetv3, is 14 times faster and 8.59% more accurare than ASIFT.

MaiZaicgeneralizes well and mosaicks maize at different growth stages, objects, trajectories, cameras, and pilots.

The mini-mosaicking algorithm improves mosaic accuracy by interrupting error accumulation.
A generative framework for enhanced cell-type specificity in rationally designed mRNAs
Authors: Khoroshkin Matvei , Zinkevich Arsenii , Aristova Elizaveta , Yousefi Hassan , Lee Sean B. , Mittmann Tabea , Manegold Karoline , Penzar Dmitry , Raleigh David R. , Kulakovskiy Ivan V. , Goodarzi Hani
Published: January 2025

mRNA delivery offers new opportunities for disease treatment by directing cells to produce therapeutic proteins. However, designing highly stable mRNAs with programmable cell type-specificity remains a challenge. To address this, we measured the regulatory activity of 60,000 5’ and 3’ untranslated regions (UTRs) across six cell types and developed PARADE (Prediction And RAtional DEsign of mRNA UTRs), a generative AI framework to engineer untranslated RNA regions with tailored cell type-specific activity. We validated PARADE by testing 15,800 de novo-designed sequences across these cell lines and identified many sequences that demonstrated superior specificity and activity compared to existing RNA therapeutics. mRNAs with PARADE-engineered UTRs also exhibited robust tissue-specific activity in animal models, achieving selective expression in the liver and spleen. We also leveraged PARADE to enhance mRNA stability, significantly increasing protein output and therapeutic durability in vivo. These advancements translated to notable increases in therapeutic efficacy, as PARADE-designed UTRs in oncosuppressor mRNAs, namely PTEN and P16, effectively reduced tumor growth in patient-derived neuroglioma xenograft models and orthotopic mouse models. Collectively, these findings establish PARADE as a versatile platform for designing safer, more precise, and highly stable mRNA therapies.
Brain activation for language and its relationship to cognitive and linguistic measures
Authors: Balboni Irene , Rampinini Alessandra , Kepinska Olga , Berthele Raphael , Golestani Narly
Published: January 2025

Language learning and use are complex cognitive skills requiring domain-general cognition and sensori-motor skills, these also being important for numerical and music processing. Previous studies have explored behavioural associations across domains and neural underpinnings of specific abilities, yet less work has examined these questions together in the same participants. We collected data from 152 participants on behavioural measures of language, reading, multilingual experience, cognition, musicality, arithmetic, and motor skills, along with fMRI data during L1 story listening. Participants varied in multilingual language experience and reading aptitudes, including both typical (TRs) and dyslexic readers (DRs). Using multivariate Partial Least Squares correlation, we identified a main component linking cognitive, linguistic, and phonological measures to brain areas underlying lexico/semantics, combinatorial processing, and amodal semantic processing. A second analysis excluding DRs showed closer associations between cognitive/linguistic, literacy, phonological and memory processes within the same brain network as in the full sample. Here, we also isolated additional, complementary components, including one involving speed, automatization and lexical access, linked to auditory and motor brain areas. This suggests greater coherence and more integrated, ‘expert’ processing in TRs. This work is a first step in exploring complex relationships between language and non-linguistic functions that are important to it.
Argonaute proteins regulate the timing of the spermatogenic transcriptional program
Authors: Carro Maria de las Mercedes , Dziubek Alexis , Touey Amanda , Popkowski Elizabeth A. , Abdelmassih Mark , Simon Leah , Tanis Stephanie , Ahmed Faraz , Grenier Jen K. , Grimson Andrew , Cohen Paula E.
Published: January 2025

Argonaute proteins are best known for their role in microRNA-mediated post-transcriptional gene silencing. Here, we show that AGO3 and AGO4, but not AGO2, localize to the sex chromatin of pachytene spermatocytes where they are required for transcriptional silencing of XY-linked genes, known as Meiotic Sex Chromosome Inactivation (MSCI). Using anAgo413-/-mouse, we show that AGO3 and AGO4 are key regulators of spermatogenesis, orchestrating expression of meiosis-related genes during prophase I while maintaining silencing of spermiogenesis genes. Premature overexpression of spermiogenesis genes during prophase I inAgo413-/-mice results in subfertility, altered sperm morphology and reduced fertilization capability. We also identify BRG1, a BAF complex subunit, as an AGO3 interactor. Loss of AGO3 and AGO4 results in increased BRG1 in spermatocytes, suggesting that AGO3 aids in removing BRG1 from the XY chromatin to achieve MSCI and demonstrating a meiotic role for AGO3 in transcriptional control through the chromatin remodeling machinery.
Slimnastics School of Ballet: entrepreneurial decision-making “En Pointe”
Authors: Barsoum Miray Rashad
Published: January 2025

Learning outcomes

Students studying this case study will critically evaluate business scenarios to develop strategic decisions, incorporating ethics, stakeholder impacts and long-term outcomes; assess managerial competencies and offer recommendations for growth, stability and employee engagement; identify entrepreneurial traits and characteristics, analyzing their impact on strategic planning and growth; evaluate leadership styles and their influence on organizational culture, motivation and success; and apply theoretical frameworks to assess Slimnastics’ challenges and propose data-driven growth strategies.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study focuses on a critical dilemma faced by Passant Esmail, founder of Slimnastics School of Ballet in Egypt. With the business recovering from the effects of the global pandemic and Esmail considering a personal relocation, she faces a key strategic decision: whether to sell Slimnastics for a profit, risking its legacy or to distribute equity among the management team, ensuring continuity but potentially compromising operational growth and future scalability. This dilemma forces her to weigh the sustainability of the business, ethical concerns and the impact of her decision on employees, students and the broader community.

Complexity academic level

This case study is designed for both undergraduate and postgraduate level students and is ideal for courses in entrepreneurship, strategic management and leadership in sports management.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS3: Entrepreneurship.
Summer-time performance of Finnish housing: POE of five apartments
Authors: Elsayed Mohamed Ahmed Abdelfattah , Lastovets Natalia , Pistore Lorenza , Pelsmakers Sofie
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Despite the increased retrofitting of Finnish residential buildings, there are limited post-retrofit studies on the actual measured indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and occupant satisfaction during summer-time. This paper provides a better understanding of the actual performance of retrofitted residential apartment buildings in Finland, focusing on some aspects of and the risk of summer overheating through post-occupancy evaluation (POE).

Design/methodology/approach

The study used both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including satisfaction surveys, indoor air temperature and relative humidity measurements, self-reported behaviour forms, open-ended discussions, and site visits in five apartments in different residential buildings in Tampere city, monitored during the summer-time, for at least 2 weeks at a time.

Findings

While occupants were positive regarding most aspects of IEQ, concerns about indoor air quality (IAQ), summer overheating and acoustic comfort were raised. The summer-time monitoring highlighted that indoor air temperatures could reach as high as 27 °C for 2–9 days depending on the monitored apartment. Little cloud cover and warmer outdoor temperatures directly influenced indoor air temperature overheating. For some aspects of the investigated IEQ parameters, it was noted that while occupants’ satisfaction was influenced by the length of their residence, their acceptance of the same conditions remained positive over time (i.e. more than one year) as they adapted over time.

Research limitations/implications

The number of participants and case studies was relatively small due to the well-known difficulty in gaining access to private homes, so the results do not allow generalisation but do provide interesting insights of these specific cases to be validated with future additional research. The short sequential rather than long-term parallel monitoring of the case study apartments was another limitation making comparison between cases and understanding reasons for differences difficult.

Practical implications

Findings highlight the need to maintain the performance of housing in Finland during summer-time. The highlighted subjective issues emphasised in this study underscore the necessity for enhanced pre- and post-retrofit quality processes and the prompt resolution of issues as they arise. The integration of POE studies into all residential construction practices becomes pivotal for the advancement of sustainable homes now, but also in the future, especially when subjected to a warming climate.

Originality/value

This study is among the few POE studies conducted in Finland, offering insights into post-retrofit performance and occupant satisfaction during the summer-time. The study highlights the potential of POE to understand the performance of retrofitted Finnish apartments from a user-centric perspective.
Influence of ChatGPT in professional communication – moderating role of perceived innovativeness
Authors: Mathur Smriti , Anand Vandana , Sharma Durgansh , Vishnoi Sushant Kr.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

ChatGPT, a cutting-edge language model, stands as an unparalleled, unmatched conversational ally, showcasing novel versatility and intelligence in its responses. This research delves into the incorporation of ChatGPT, a powerful generative AI tool, into professional communication. This study utilizes the information system success model (ISSM) to examine the role of ChatGPTs in strengthening information quality (IQ), system quality (SQ) and service quality (SEQ) for improving customer usage intention (UI) and satisfaction (SAT). The study also investigates the moderating impact of perceived innovativeness between these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The research collected data from a sample of 400 customers through an online survey and validated the hypothesized relationships using structural equation modelling (SEM). Process Macros 4.1 in SPSS 22.0 is used to test the moderating role of perceived innovation between IQ, SQ and SEQ and UI and SAT.

Findings

The results of SEM analysis indicate that IQ, SQ and SEQ all positively support UI to use ChatGPT for professional communication with SAT. The result also establishes that perceived innovativeness positively moderates the relationship between IQ, SQ and SEQ and UI and SAT.

Originality/value

This research study offers novel contributions to the literature and body of knowledge by establishing the moderating role of perceived innovativeness in strengthening the relationship between IQ, SQ and SEQ and UI and SAT. Further, this study also proposes a 2*2 matrix to segment the UI and SAT of ChatGPT users in professional communication with varying degrees of perceived innovativeness.
Societal spirits in the silver streak: Unraveling complexity in drinking habits of the mature adult population
Authors: van den Ende Maarten W. J. , Freichel René , van der Maas Han L. J. , Wiers Reinout W. , Epskamp Sacha
Published: January 2025

Background

The complex interactions between an individual's drinking behavior and their social environment is crucial but understudied, particularly in mature adult populations. Our aim is to unravel these complexities by investigating how personal drinking patterns are related to those of one's social environment over time, and what the interplay is with personal factors such as occupational prestige and smoking behavior.

Method

The present study adopts an innovative graphical autoregressive (GVAR) panel network modeling approach to investigate the dynamics between personal drinking habits and social environmental factors, utilizing a comprehensive longitudinal dataset from the Framingham Heart Study with a large sample of predominantly mature adults (N = 1719–5718) connected within a social network. We explored both temporal and contemporaneous associations between individuals' drinking habits (self‐reported), smoking behavior (self‐reported), perceived job prestige (Treiman prestige score), and the drinking behaviors of their social environment. The latter consists of the proportion of abstaining, moderate drinking, and heavy drinking social connections of each subject.

Results

Our findings reveal significant associations between participants' behavior and that of their peers, with reciprocal interactions, substantiating the importance of the influence of one's social network for mature individuals. We found dynamic, reciprocal associations between an individual's drinking behavior and that of their peers, with periods of increased or decreased drinking correlating with increased connections to heavy drinkers or abstainers, respectively. In addition, when individuals drink more than usual, they also tend to consume more cigarettes, and vice versa.

Conclusions

The reciprocal feedback loops identified between an individual's drinking behavior and their social environment highlight the crucial role of social influences in shaping drinking behavior, including among older people. This emphasizes the need to consider social elements in the development of future theories, models, and interventions aimed at addressing problematic alcohol consumption in this vulnerable population.
Mucilage of Pereskia aculeata Miller as Cryoprotectant of Frozen Strawberries: Preservation of Bioactive Compounds and Microstructure
Authors: Piva Samella Fabiane , de Oliveira Meira Ana Cristina Freitas , de Morais Larissa Carolina , Alexandre Ana Claúdia Silveira , de Resende Jaime Vilela
Published: January 2025

Whole strawberries were frozen after being impregnated with solutions of ora‐pro‐nóbis mucilage (MOPN) or pectin at concentrations of 0%, 0.5%, and 1.0% (w/v), CaCl2 at concentrations of 0.5% and 1.0% (w/v), and sucrose at concentrations of 5.0% and 10% (w/v). The strawberries were vacuum impregnated for 2 h with a controlled pressure of 64.3 kPa, and the rheological behavior of the solutions was evaluated before and after vacuum impregnation. In the strawberries, the texture and cell fluid losses, total soluble solids, pH, titratable acidity, and bioactive compounds were analyzed before and after processing. The microstructures of the frozen samples were evaluated by low‐vacuum electron microscopy. The impregnation process influenced the rheological parameters, and the solutions showed Newtonian or non‐Newtonian (n < 1) behavior. The treatment with MOPN efficiently reduced the cell fluid loss and texture loss in the thawed strawberries. Compared with pectin, these samples more effectively preserved the anthocyanin content and showed less reduction and oxidation of β‐carotene from the β‐carotene/linoleic acid system. For the treatments with MOPN or pectin combined with sucrose and CaCl2, the values for the milligrams ascorbic acid/100 g of strawberry and 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were statistically similar to those of the fresh fruit. Microstructural analysis by low‐vacuum SEM confirmed that the vacuum impregnation process was able to incorporate the solutions inside the microstructure of whole strawberries. Compared to pectin solutions, MOPN solutions have potential for use as cryoprotectants of fruits.
Revolutionizing Engineering Education: Adapting Curricula to Address Artificial Intelligence Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Jauregui-Correa Juan Carlos , Sen Mihir
Published: January 2025

Undergraduate university education is at an impasse, and the pandemic has merely highlighted its problems. There will be stark consequences if nothing is done to alleviate the issues. Mechanical Engineering is taken as an example, mainly because the authors are familiar with mechanical engineering, though it is suspected that the problems go beyond that. The issue currently faced is outlined, and one possible solution is offered. A new way to look at a course of study for engineering education is proposed. This is based on a different perspective on engineering education and considers that modern technologies have modified every aspect of knowledge retrieval and dissemination, particularly the dissemination of Artificial Intelligence as a tool for research and knowledge archive. The curriculum proposed here answers questions such as: Why should the course of study for becoming engineers begin by first dividing the required knowledge into a fixed and finite set of subjects; why should the courses last a fixed number of weeks with a certain number of hours each? The proposal is explained using the commonly used mechanical engineering curriculum, but it applies to any branch of engineering or any other field.
Project-based Experiential Learning in Designing Truss Structure for First Year Chemical Engineering Students
Authors: Sarkawi Muhammad Syahir , Mohamed Mahadhir , Shamjuddin Amnani , Alias Hajar , Mohamad Zurina
Published: January 2025

The successful integration of a novel and dynamic project-based learning (PBL) methodology, grounded in experiential learning principles, within the pedagogy of the first-year Chemical Engineering program, yielded transformative outcomes in the teaching and learning of the Statics course. This endeavour involved a project-based experiential learning approach, wherein students actively engaged in the conceiving, designing, constructing, and testing a truss structure. This strategic shift from conventional teaching methods to a student-centred approach aimed to empower the learning experience. Facilitated by project-based experiential learning, students collaborated in groups to conceptualize, build, and evaluate the truss structure, fostering self-directed learning skills and enhancing 21st Century 4C skills. The project was designed based on constructivist learning theory, emphasizing experiential learning and scaffolded activities to support students in achieving the project's outcomes. Throughout the project journey, students consistently demonstrated proficiency in applying free-body diagram concepts, which aligns with the constructivist approach to learning. This evidence was documented in student-prepared vlogs, showcasing their ongoing application of theoretical knowledge to practical challenges. At the project's conclusion, a survey was conducted among 124 students in the first semester of the 2022/2023 academic year to assess project outcomes. The results indicated high levels of agreement among students, with 96% agreeing to collaboration elements, 90.4% to communication, 91.2% to critical thinking, and 90.4% to creativity. Moreover, 88.8% of students agreed that their knowledge in designing basic truss structures improved, 96.8% felt more confident in analysing truss structures, and 81.6% found creating montage videos beneficial. Through our innovative methodologies, we contribute to the advancement of engineering education and ensure that our students are prepared to face the challenges of the future with confidence and creativity.
Development of an Arduino-Based Photometer for Reactive Red 120 Dye Detection COVID-19
Authors: Tam Yi Qian , Abdul Halim Anis Nur Shasha , Abdul Keyon Aemi Syazwani , Mohd Nor Nur Safwati
Published: January 2025

During the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional laboratory access was limited, prompting innovative approaches to education and research. An undergraduate chemistry student undertook the development of an Arduino-based photometer as a remote learning final year project. This project aimed to measure RR-120 dye concentrations in water using affordable and accessible technology, providing practical experience in photometry, electronics, and programming despite the constraints of the pandemic. The removal of Reactive Red 120 from water bodies is a significant environmental concern. The photometer, constructed using an Arduino UNO microcontroller, a green LED (500-570 nm), resistors, a plastic cuvette, and a BH1750FVI digital light intensity sensor module, is designed to be a cost-effective and user-friendly device for classroom and laboratory use. The device's operation is controlled via Arduino IDE 1.8.19 software, providing hands-on experience with programming and electronics. Calibration with seven RR-120 solutions (0.2 to 1.4 mg/L) produced an R² value of 0.9823, with a detection limit of 0.47 mg/L. The photometer achieved 98.66% accuracy demonstrating its reliability. Performance comparison with a commercial benchtop UV-Visible spectrophotometer (R² = 0.9956) further demonstrates the photometer’s reliability. This Arduino-based photometer not only offers a practical application for teaching principles of photometry and spectroscopy but also illustrates the integration of affordable technology in scientific education, enhancing student engagement and learning in STEM fields during challenging times. Most importantly, this device also provided hands-on experience in photometry, enhancing remote learning during restricted lab access. The device’s scalability suggests potential applications in broader environmental monitoring and educational settings, beyond the initial scope of dye detection.
Automating Peer Evaluation and Attendance in Chemical Engineering Education: A Google-Based Approach
Authors: Ruslan Muhammad Syafiq Hazwan , Sapiee Nurul Haiza , Ishak Noor Fauziyah , Abd Rahman Norazah
Published: January 2025

Teaching and learning processes not only involve activities, but class preparation management and pedagogies also play an important role in ensuring quality education is delivered properly. With high-performance indicators to be achieved by academicians, teaching and learning management must be automated to reduce the time spent on these processes. Thus, the one-stop center on content management, automated peer evaluation form (APEF), and attendance management system (AMS) were developed to assist educators in managing academic duties. To date, three chemical engineering courses have been fully developed under the one-stop center which consists of lecture notes, videos, tutorials, past year questions, and any scaffolding activities. APEF and AMS were developed in a Google environment combining Google Site, Sheet, Form, Docs, and Scripts. The APEF was designed to reduce errors in data management and data population of the peer evaluation marks. Meanwhile, the motivation for AMS is to ensure paperless and seamless attendance monitoring can be conducted on real time basis. The output is a fully automated peer evaluation form and attendance monitoring system that can monitor student peer evaluation submission in real-time, providing automated data population and calculation, tracking student attendance, and serving as an evidence collection tool. These tools have had a great impact on the instructors as well as the students in managing their classroom as shown in the 100% agreement in the user satisfaction survey.  Although the implementation of these tools as a department practice is not yet in place, the potential of mass adoption is profound due to its simplicity, applicability, and scalability.
Reshaping Engineering Education: Addressing Complex Human Challenges: A Book Review
Authors: Julius Avelinah , Ibrahim Mohamad Syahrul Nizam
Published: January 2025

Reshaping Engineering Education: Addressing Complex Human Challenges, authored by Fawwaz Habbal, Anette Kolmos, Roger G. Hadgraft, Jette Egelund Holgaard, and Kamar Reda, addresses the urgent need for transformative changes in engineering education. The authors argue that the traditional curriculum, primarily focused on mathematical rigour and applied sciences, is insufficient to equip graduates for the complex, interdisciplinary challenges of the modern world. These challenges, such as global sustainability, climate change, and the digital revolution, require holistic, systems-thinking approaches. The book is structured into four main sections. Part I highlights the importance of systems thinking and design methodologies in engineering education, positioning engineers as problem-solvers in complex real-world systems. Part II explores pedagogical changes, advocating for problem-based and project-based learning as key methods to foster critical thinking and creativity. Part III presents case studies from Harvard University, Aalborg University, and the University of Technology Sydney, demonstrating successful applications of these educational reforms. Part IV concludes with actionable recommendations for institutions to integrate interdisciplinary and design-focused curricula. Through its examination of innovative teaching strategies and case studies, the book emphasizes the need for collaboration, adaptability, and interdisciplinary learning in modern engineering education. It offers a comprehensive framework for reshaping engineering programs and preparing future engineers with the skills necessary to tackle complex human challenges.
Assessing the Usability and Effectiveness of Chemical Engineering Capstone Design Project Teaching and Learning Model
Authors: Pauzi Aziah , Kasim Farizul Hafiz
Published: January 2025

In recent years, industry leaders, academicians, and ABET standards have expressed renewed interest in teaching engineers to solve real-world and open-ended problems. In chemical engineering program, a capstone design project is a course that allows students to deal with these problems whilst using the knowledge they have acquired from previous courses offered in the curriculum. The course represents all the Accreditation Board for Engineering Education (ABET) program outcomes required for accreditation. To enhance students' learning and meet the program outcomes requirements, we present this work focusing on the evaluation phase of an effective teaching and learning model. This model is specifically designed for chemical engineering capstone projects and aligns with the intended program outcomes. Additionally, it allows us to assess the model's effectiveness and its impact on student learning. This study aims to assess the usability and effectiveness of the designed survey questionnaires in investigating the suitability of conducting a capstone design project via this approach method. The research methodology centered on creating and validating a survey questionnaire to evaluate the suitability of the capstone design project approach. The population of this study was final-year students of the chemical engineering degree program, Faculty of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Malaysia, enrolment 2020/2021. To ensure the reliability and validity of the survey instrument, a pilot test was conducted with a minimum of thirty respondents, employing Cronbach Alpha (CA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The analysis results indicate the survey questionnaires are reliable and valid, with a CA value of 0.891 and Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) index of 0.690. The evaluation results show improved students’ understanding of program outcomes and also their perceptions that the capstone design course helped their professional growth. Also, the detailed assessment and feedback given to students via this teaching and learning model made the course more valuable for preparing them for industry careers. This work resulted in better ways to teach, manage, and assess the technical and non-technical course outcomes. Indirectly, it can improve the current practices used by instructors.