bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary study on the explosive performance of coal dust and prospects for engineering applications
Authors: Guo Jing , Ge Shirong
Published: January 2025

This study aims to evaluate the efficiency and energy release characteristics of different types of coal in pulse detonation engines (PDE) to advance the development of deep coal fluidization detonation technology, achieving more efficient and cleaner coal utilization. Using a custom PDE setup, experiments were conducted with four coal types at mass flow rates from 30 to 120 g/s. High-frequency pressure sensors assessed pressure dynamics and detonation wave propagation, complemented by numerical simulations for accuracy. Results show that the maximum detonation pressure (Pmax) increases linearly with coal mass flow, with anthracite reaching 1.52 MPa at 120 g/s. A consistent linear relationship between Pmax and maximum temperature (Tmax) was observed. Detonation combustion efficiency (ηDCE) improved with mass flow, with peat rising from 52.3% to 83.7%. These findings provide a foundation for advancing deep coal fluidized detonation technology, contributing to more efficient and cleaner coal utilization.
Photosymbiosis shaped animal genome architecture and gene evolution as revealed in giant clams
Authors: Li Ruiqi , Leiva Carlos , Lemer Sarah , Kirkendale Lisa , Li Jingchun
Published: January 2025

Symbioses are major drivers of organismal diversification and phenotypic innovation. However, how long-term symbioses shape whole genome evolution in metazoans is still underexplored. Here, we use a giant clam (Tridacna maxima) genome to demonstrate how symbiosis has left complex signatures in an animal’s genome. Giant clams thrive in oligotrophic waters by forming a remarkable association with photosymbiotic dinoflagellate algae. Genome-based demographic inferences uncover a tight correlation between T. maxima global population change and major paleoclimate and habitat shifts, revealing how abiotic and biotic factors may dictate T. maxima microevolution. Comparative analyses reveal genomic features that may be symbiosis-driven, including expansion and contraction of immunity-related gene families and a large proportion of lineage-specific genes. Strikingly, about 70% of the genome is composed of repetitive elements, especially transposable elements, most likely resulting from a symbiosis-adapted immune system. This work greatly enhances our understanding of genomic drivers of symbiosis that underlie metazoan evolution and diversification.
Requirements on bit resolution in optical Ising machine implementations with analog spin variables
Authors: Sevenants Toon , Van der Sande Guy , Verschaffelt Guy
Published: January 2025

Optical Ising machines have emerged as a promising dynamical hardware solver for computational hard optimization problems. These Ising machines typically require an optical modulator to represent the analog spin variables of these problems. However, modern day optical modulators have a relatively low modulation resolution. We therefore investigate how the low bit-resolution of optical hardware influences the performance of this type of computing platform. Based on numerical simulations, we determine the minimum required bit-resolution of an optical Ising machine for different benchmark problems of different sizes. Our study shows that a limited bit-resolution of 8bit is sufficient for the optical modulator. We also observe that the use of a 1bit-resolution modulator significantly improves the performance of the Ising machine across all considered benchmark problems.
Humans rationally balance detailed and temporally abstract world models
Authors: Kahn Ari E. , Daw Nathaniel D.
Published: January 2025

How do people model the world’s dynamics to guide mental simulation and evaluate choices? One prominent approach, the Successor Representation (SR), takes advantage of temporal abstraction of future states: by aggregating trajectory predictions over multiple timesteps, the brain can avoid the costs of iterative, multi-step mental simulation. Human behavior broadly shows signatures of such temporal abstraction, but finer-grained characterization of individuals’ strategies and their dynamic adjustment remains an open question. We developed a task to measure SR usage during dynamic, trial-by-trial learning. Using this approach, we find that participants exhibit a mix of SR and model-based learning strategies that varies across individuals. Further, by dynamically manipulating the task contingencies within-subject to favor or disfavor temporal abstraction, we observe evidence of resource-rational reliance on the SR, which decreases when future states are less predictable. Our work adds to a growing body of research showing that the brain arbitrates between approximate decision strategies. The current study extends these ideas from simple habits into usage of more sophisticated approximate predictive models, and demonstrates that individuals dynamically adapt these in response to the predictability of their environment.
Monascus pilosus SWM-008 red mold rice and its components, monascinol and monascin, reduce obesity in a high-fat diet-induced rat model through synergistic modulation of gut microbiota and anti-lipogenesis
Authors: Liu Chin-Feng , Chuang Hui-Tzu , Wang Chia-Shu , Hsu Ya-Wen , Pan Tzu-Ming , Lee Chun-Lin
Published: January 2025

This study is the first to explore the effects of the novel yellow pigment monascinol (Msol) from red mold rice (RMR) on reducing body fat and to compare its effects with those of monascin (MS) and ankaflavin (AK).
Exploring tribochemical transduction pathways for dehydrogenation of molecular hydrides
Authors: Muñoz-Cortés Esmeralda , Leardini Fabrice , Conte Marcello , Campo Adolfo del , Flores Eduardo , Ares Jose Ramon , Nevshupa Roman
Published: January 2025

Operando investigation of ethane-1,2-diamineborane (EDAB): no tribochemical dehydrogenation but possible secondary reactions of bond cleavage.
Chorionic trophoblast cells demonstrate functionally different phenotypes from placental trophoblasts
Authors: Choudhury Jaganmoy , Richardson Lauren S , Urrabaz-Garza Rheanna , Jacob Jeena , Kammala Ananth Kumar , Menon Ramkumar
Published: January 2025

Chorionic trophoblast cells are one of the principal components of the fetal membrane and join with the decidua to form a feto–maternal interface. Recent success in isolating chorionic trophoblast cells dealt with two separate questions: (i) the necessity of highly enriched and defined media with inhibitors of oxidative stress and cell transition and their impact on growth and trophoblast phenotype, (ii) the functional differences between chorionic trophoblast cells and other placental trophoblast lineages of cells (placental cytotrophoblast cells, and extravillous trophoblast). Chorionic trophoblast cells were cultured either in defined media with various inhibitors or in media from which inhibitors were removed individually. Cellular morphology and growth (microscopy and crystal violet staining) and cellular and molecular biological features (immunofluorescence staining for GATA-binding protein 3, cytokeratin 7, and vimentin) were assessed. Syncytialization of cells (forskolin treatment) and invasive properties of chorionic trophoblast cells (cell invasion assay) were tested and compared with placental cytotrophoblast cells and extravillous trophoblasts (HTR8/SVneo), respectively. Removal of various growth-supporting agents from the media delayed cell growth and inclined towards cellular transition (increase in vimentin compared to cytokeratin 7 or GATA-binding protein 3) compared to chorionic trophoblast cells grown in complete and enriched media. The chorionic trophoblast cells failed to syncytialize, contrasting with the high levels of membrane fusion observed in placental cytotrophoblast cells. Although chorionic trophoblast cells express human leukocyte antigen G like extravillous trophoblasts, they do not invade. Chorionic trophoblast cells require several specific constituents for in vitro growth and phenotype maintenance. Chorionic trophoblast cells are trophoblast lineage cells that barricade immune cell-enriched decidua without invading them. These properties support their location and function, which are distinct from placental cytotrophoblast cells and extravillous trophoblasts.
Metal–Organic Frameworks MIL-101(Fe) and MIL-53(Al) as Efficient Adsorbents for Dispersive Micro-Solid-Phase Extraction of Sorafenib in Plasma and Wastewater, Coupled with HPLC-UV Analysis
Authors: Takhvar Azra , Akbari Somaye , Souri Effat , Ahmadkhaniha Reza , Morsali Ali , Khoshayand Mohammad Reza , Amini Mohsen , Taheri Alireza
Published: January 2025

In the present study, metal–organic frameworks, MIL-101(Fe) and MIL-53(Al), were synthesized under solvothermal conditions and were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray energy diffraction spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The synthesized metal–organic frameworks were utilized for the purpose of dispersive micro-solid phase extraction of sorafenib in both human plasma and wastewater, which was subsequently followed by high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet determination. Parameters affecting extraction efficacy including adsorbent amount, ionic strength, pH, type of elution solvent, adsorption and desorption time were optimized. Under optimal experimental conditions, the linearity in human plasma and wastewater was achieved in the range of 0.25–5.00 and 0.01–0.20 μg/mL, respectively. The extraction recovery for MIL-101(Fe) and MIL-53(Al), respectively, was calculated in human plasma and wastewater and found to be in the range of 86.27–99.47%.
Characteristics and healthcare utilization among aging veterans in supported housing: A comparison with independently housed age-matched veterans
Authors: Beydoun Hind A , Szymkowiak Dorota , Kinney Rebecca , Jones Audrey L , Tsai Jack
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

There is a large and growing population of older, formerly homeless adults living in permanent supportive housing, and there are concerns about how to address their healthcare needs. This study compared veterans aged 55 years and older residing in the Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program to an age-matched group of independently housed veterans receiving care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system on health and healthcare service use characteristics.

Research Design and Methods

Cross-sectional analyses were performed on 1,436,537 (66,072 HUD-VASH vs. 1,370,465 housed) eligible veterans with index encounter dates between October 1, 2021, and July 31, 2022, using linked data from the VA’s Homeless Operations Management and Evaluation System and the Corporate Data Warehouse. Propensity-score adjusted logistic regression models were constructed to compare aging HUD-VASH vs. housed veterans on outpatient and inpatient healthcare utilization.

Results

HUD-VASH veterans were more likely to have physical and mental health morbidities, including substance use disorder than their independently housed counterparts. HUD-VASH veterans were less likely to utilize outpatient medical services, and more likely to use emergency and inpatient care services than independently housed veterans.

Discussion and Implications

Older veterans in the HUD-VASH program have greater healthcare needs and different patterns of healthcare utilization than their independently housed counterparts. Targeted interventions that better engage and reduce barriers to care among aging populations in supported housing are needed.
Effect of pipe material and disinfectant on active bacterial communities in drinking water and biofilms
Authors: Siponen Sallamaari , Ikonen Jenni , Gomez-Alvarez Vicente , Hokajärvi Anna-Maria , Ruokolainen Matti , Jayaprakash Balamuralikrishna , Kolehmainen Mikko , Miettinen Ilkka T , Pitkänen Tarja , Torvinen Eila
Published: January 2025

Aims

We investigated the combined effects of pipe materials and disinfection chemicals on bacterial community and its active RNA fraction in water and biofilms in a pilot-scale premise plumbing system.

Methods and results

The changes in bacterial communities were studied within four pipelines using copper and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe with chlorine or chloramine disinfection. The total and active bacterial communities and the presence of opportunistic pathogens (Legionella spp. and Mycobacterium spp.) were analyzed using 16S rRNA (gene) amplicon sequencing. The dominant classes were Alphaproteobacteria (31%) and Gammaproteobacteria (24%). Class Planctomycetia was increased in active fraction of chlorinated waters and PEX pipe biofilms and decreased in chloraminated waters and copper pipe biofilms. The alpha diversity of the active fractions in biofilms were highest in chloraminated PEX pipe samples (Chao1 mean = 163, P < 0.05, Kruskal–Wallis). Legionella spp. was more abundant and active in waters treated with chlorine than chloramine.

Conclusions

Disinfectant had a stronger impact than pipe material on the bacterial community composition in water. A combined effect of pipe material and disinfectant was more evident on the composition and activity of the biofilm communities than the individual effect of copper, PEX, chlorine, or chloramine.
Ultrathin and capacity-tunable lithium metal wires for lithium-based fiber batteries
Authors: Li Chuanfa , Ye Qian , Wang Jiaqi , Huang Xinlin , Song Tianbing , Zhang Kun , Li Pengzhou , Zhang Yanan , Gong Xiaocheng , Jiang Yi , Gao Yue , Peng Huisheng , Wang Bingjie
Published: January 2025

Ultrathin lithium (Li) metal wires with tunable capacities have great promise for precise prelithiation of fiber anodes and high-energy-density Li-based fiber batteries. However, the application of Li metal in fiber batteries faces great challenges due to its mechanical fragility and the resulting limited micro-dimension manufacturing capability. These challenges impede the production of ultrathin Li wires with adjustable Li contents to match the capacities of Li-based fiber batteries. Herein, silver-plated aramid yarns (Ag/AYs) are employed to load Li metal for producing ultrathin Li wires. The bundled structure of Ag/AYs leads to the adjustable volume of oriented voids within the fibers, thus resulting in accurately tunable capacities (0.0048–2.4 mAh cm−1) and diameters (20–534 μm) of Li wires. Such thin Li wires are used to precisely compensate for Li loss during the formation cycle of the fiber graphite anodes, thereby improving the initial Coulombic efficiency from ∼88% to ∼100%. Additionally, when employed as anodes, these Li wires enabled the fiber batteries to exhibit exceptional cycling stability for 150 cycles under a relatively low negative/positive ratio of 2.06, while achieving a high energy density of 139.822 Wh kg−1 based on the total mass of the battery.
AFM-based nanoscale characterization of physical interaction within hematopoietic stem cells niche at single-cell level
Authors: Kubiak Andrzej Jan , Bryniarska-Kubiak Natalia , Eren Mehmet , Kowalski Kacper , Gawlinska Kinga , Kwiecinska Patrycja , Biarnes-Pelicot Martine , Dessard Marie , El Husseiny Jana , N-Guyen Ti-Thien , Kozuch Pawel , Lis Olga , Targosz-Korecka Marta , Puech Pierre-Henri , Szade Krzysztof
Published: January 2025

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) produce all blood cells throughout the lifespan of the organism. HSC requires a specialized bone marrow microenvironment, known as the niche, for proper differentiation and self-renewal. While several molecular and cellular elements of the niche are described, the precise understanding of the mechanobiology underlying HSC adhesion to the niche remains poorly understood. Here, we aim to characterize physical interactions and adhesion within the hematopoietic niche by combining cell sorting, surface functionalization, and atomic force microscopy. Using this approach, we quantified and compared the adhesion of bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to different extracellular proteins, as well as the adhesion of HSCs to MSCs. We observed that MSCs adhere with the greatest force to fibronectin in an Arg-Gly-As (RGD) motif mediated and actin cytoskeleton-dependent manner. Additionally, we showed that HSCs strongly adhere to MSC within 30 seconds and that the binding is RGD-independent. In conclusion, we demonstrated how to implement atomic force microscopy to measure the physiological interactions within the HSCs niche in a direct, specific, and quantitative way. This approach provides a more comprehensive and precise characterization of the biology of the HSC niche compared to previously used methods. Furthermore, it highlights the complexity of studying extremely small structures and rare cell populations in biophysical experiments.
TSPO-PET Reveals Higher Inflammation in White Matter Disrupted by Paramagnetic Rim Lesions in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Tozlu Ceren , Jamison Keith , Kang Yeona , Hurtado Rua Sandra , Kaunzner Ulrike W. , Nguyen Thanh , Kuceyeski Amy , Gauthier Susan A.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To explore whether the inflammatory activity is higher in white matter (WM) tracts disrupted by paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) and if inflammation in PRL-disrupted WM tracts is associated with disability in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

Forty-four MS patients and 16 healthy controls were included. 18 kDa-translocator protein positron emission tomography (TSPO-PET) with the11C-PK11195 radioligand was used to measure the neuroinflammatory activity. The Network Modification Tool was used to identify WM tracts disrupted by PRLs and non-PRLs that were delineated on MRI. The Expanded Disability Status Scale was used to measure disability.

Results

MS patients had higher inflammatory activity in whole brain WM compared to healthy controls (p=0.001). Compared to patients without PRLs, patients with PRLs exhibited higher levels of inflammatory activity in the WM tracts disrupted by any type of lesions (p=0.02) or PRLs (p=0.004). In patients with at least one PRL, inflammatory activity was higher in WM tracts highly disrupted by PRLs compared to WM tracts highly disrupted by non-PRLs (p=0.009). Elevated inflammatory activity in highly disrupted WM tracts was associated with increased disability in patients with PRL (p=0.03), but not in patients without PRL (p=0.2).

Interpretation

This study suggests that patients with PRLs may exhibit more diffuse WM inflammation in addition to higher inflammation along WM tracts disrupted by PRLs compared to non-PRLs, which could contribute to larger lesion volumes and faster disability progression. Imaging PRLs may serve to identify patients with both focal and diffuse inflammation, guiding therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing inflammation and preventing progressive disability in MS.
The Effects of Living at Altitude on the Prevalence of Dementia
Authors: Holt Alan , Davies Adrian
Published: January 2025

A lower incidence of dementia has been observed in populations residing at high altitudes compared to those at low altitudes. A possible cause is the inverse relationship between altitude and the partial pressure of inspired oxygen. This paper investigates the long term impact that living at altitude has on mitochondrial function.

We use simulation methods to model the dynamics of a population of mtDNA and the proliferation of deletion mutants. Clonal expansion of these deletion mutants over many years impairs mitochondrial function resulting in cell death, notably in post-mitotic cells such as neurons. Neuron loss leads to cognitive impairment, progressing to dementia over time.

Our results show that there is a moderate reduction in neuron loss rates and associated cognitive decline with respect to dementia in the elderly. These results are consistent with published data on the regional prevalence of dementia when plotted against altitude.
Transcriptomic analysis of repeat expansion-ataxias uncovers distinct non-neuronal cell type-specific signatures of disease across the human brain
Authors: Chen Zhongbo , Hicks Amy , Brenton Jonathan , Grant-Peters Melissa , Reynolds Regina H. , Gustavsson Emil K. , Rocca Clarissa , Rocamora-Perez Guillermo , Garza Raquel , Garcia-Ruiz Sonia , Dominik Natalia , Anderson Claire , Curless Toby , Montgomery Kylie , Macpherson Hannah , Nethisinghe Suran , Gavriouchkina Daria , Blunskyte-Hendley Modesta , Fairbrother-Browne Aine , Lee Jasmaine , Luo Huihui , Efthymiou Stephanie , Murphy David , Hinton Fairlie , Botia Juan , Cortese Andrea , Wood Nicholas , Giunti Paola , Hardy John , Jakobsson Johan , Gandhi Sonia , Tucci Arianna , McLean Catriona , Jaunmuktane Zane , Houlden Henry , Ryten Mina
Published: January 2025

Hereditary ataxias are a heterogeneous group of neurogenetic conditions characterised by the clinical syndrome of progressive loss of coordination from neurodegeneration of the cerebellum. A commonality across the most prevalent ataxias is the underlying disease mechanism secondary to expansions of short tandem DNA repeats. There is currently an incomplete understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of these repeat expansion disorders, a core feature of which revolves around RNA-dysregulation. In this study, we used both bulk and single nuclear RNA-sequencing to study post-mortem brain tissue of human donors with a range of repeat-expansion ataxias to reveal further mechanistic insights.

We compared post-mortem paired cerebellar and frontal cortex tissue bulk RNA-sequencing data from 23 ataxia patients and 22 sex-, age-matched controls from two brain banks (spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA)1, SCA2, SCA6, SCA7, SCA17, Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA), and 7 cases with unknown molecular diagnoses). We analysed bulk RNA-sequencing data for transcript usage, differential and cell-type-specific expression to transcriptomically profile these diseases. We also generated single nuclear RNA-sequencing data of the cerebellum from donors with SCA1, SCA2, SCA6 and FRDA to decipher changes in cell type proportions in the disease state.

Using this approach, we found that: (i) despite the commonalities in the genetics of ataxia, there were components of their transcriptional signatures which were distinct; (ii) there were extensive transcriptional changes evident not only in the cerebellum but also the frontal cortex in ataxia cases; (iii) activation of immune and inflammatory pathways, as well as involvement of non-neuronal cell types was a feature of all ataxias to a lesser or greater extent.

This study provides a novel resource to understand the mechanisms of disease in ataxia. Furthermore, taken together, these results highlight immune pathways and the role of non-neuronal cell types as early and potentially important therapeutic targets. These findings provide a map of transcriptomic changes in ataxia to further understanding of the underlying pathogenesis.
Characterization of RNA interference in the model cnidarian Nematostella vectensis reveals partial target silencing but lack of small RNA amplification
Authors: Admoni Yael , Lewandowska Magda , Aharoni Reuven , Shi Junchao , Zhang Xudong , Chen Qi , Moran Yehu
Published: January 2025

RNA interference (RNAi) is an antiviral mechanism based on processing of viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) into short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) leading to dsRNA destruction. It is considered as an ancestral mechanism which invertebrates rely on for defense against viruses, while vertebrates have evolved instead the interferon pathway. Recent studies showed that sea anemones, members of the basally-branching phylum Cnidaria, might possess an antiviral response with more vertebrate characteristics than previously thought; however, it is unknown whether cnidarians also employ RNAi as an immune response similarly to nematodes and insects. In this study we characterize the antiviral RNAi response in the model cnidarian Nematostella vectensis. We injected dsRNA with GFP sequence to GFP-expressing transgenic zygotes and show that siRNAs mapping to the GFP sequence are generated and induce a moderate but significant knockdown of GFP expression. In addition, we find no evidence of secondary siRNA generation, despite their crucial role in the amplification of antiviral response in other organisms. Notably, RNAi pathway components are specifically upregulated upon dsRNA injection while microRNA pathway components are downregulated. Overall, our findings reveal that N. vectensis possesses an antiviral RNAi system with no secondary amplification, suggesting that it serves only as a short-term antiviral mechanism.
Role of RSPO3 in Estrogen-mediated Sex Differences in Body Fat Distribution: A Single-cell Data-driven Study
Authors: Xu Qian , Yang Yongjian , Gupta Shreyan , Chen Bo-Jia , Li Guanxun , Chamberlain Mathew , Cai James J
Published: January 2025

Obesity is a global health concern affecting more than one-third of the adult population worldwide. Epidemiological studies indicate that body fat distribution, more than overall adiposity, is a key risk factor for obesity-related diseases. Genome-wide association studies revealed that RSPO3 is associated with body fat distribution. Additionally, marked sex differences in body fat distribution are largely influenced by estrogen, suggesting that exploring the relationship between estrogen and RSPO3 expression may illuminate the mechanisms underlying the sexual dimorphism of fat distribution. We revisited a comprehensive set of gene expression data from humans and mice to explore these mechanisms. We assessed RSPO3 expression in male and female adipose tissues and utilized single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics to examine RSPO3's function within different tissues. Our findings confirmed significantly higher RSPO3 expression in male adipose tissue compared to female. Furthermore, our data for the first time suggest that estrogen plays a crucial role in fat distribution, as blocking estrogen signaling upregulates RSPO3 expression. In mouse liver, we observed a correlation between sex-specific ADK overexpression and RSPO3 expression, resulting in increased obesity and hepatocyte expansion via WNT/β-catenin signaling in male mice. This study sheds light on how estrogen influences sexual dimorphism in fat distribution and underscores RSPO3's vital role in this process. These insights open new avenues for targeted therapeutic interventions addressing obesity and metabolic diseases with a focus on sex-specific factors.
DANCE: An open-source analysis pipeline and low-cost hardware to quantify aggression and courtship inDrosophila
Authors: Yadav R. Sai Prathap , Dey Paulami , Ansari Faizah , Kottat Tanvi , Prabhu P. Pallavi , Vasam Manohar , Ayyangar Shrinivas , Bhaskar S. Swathi , Prabhu Krishnananda , Ghosh Monalisa , Agrawal Pavan
Published: January 2025

Quantifying animal behaviors is pivotal for identifying the underlying neuronal and genetic mechanisms. Computational approaches have enabled automated analysis of complex behaviors such as aggression and courtship inDrosophila. However, existing approaches rely on rigid, rule-based algorithms and expensive hardware, limiting sensitivity to behavioral variations and accessibility. Here, we describe the DANCE (DrosophilaAggression and Courtship Evaluator), a low-cost, open-source platform combining machine learning-based classifiers and inexpensive hardware to quantify aggression and courtship. DANCE consists of six novel behavioral classifiers trained using a supervised machine learning algorithm. DANCE classifiers outperform existing rule-based algorithms by capturing dynamic behavioral variations. DANCE hardware is constructed using repurposed medicine blister packs and acrylic sheets, with recordings performed using smartphones, making it affordable and accessible. Benchmarking demonstrated that DANCE hardware performs comparably to sophisticated, high-cost setups. We validated DANCE in diverse contexts, including social isolation versus enrichment that modulate aggression and courtship, RNAi-mediated down-regulation of neuropeptide Dsk, and optogenetic silencing of dopaminergic neurons which promoted aggression. DANCE provides a cost-effective and portable solution for studyingDrosophilabehaviors in resource-limited settings or closer to natural habitats. Its accessibility and robust performance democratizes behavioral neuroscience, enabling rapid screening of genes and neuronal circuits underlying complex social behaviors.
Reframing government support for SMEs’ performance in international market: the critical role of institutional context
Authors: Jalali Hossein S.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore how contextual factors influence the effectiveness of government support initiatives in enhancing the international performance (IP) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Addressing the fragmented nature of international business literature regarding institutional context, this study adopts an institution-based view (IBV) to examine how specific components of institutional context act as moderators in the relationship between government support and SME performance in international markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is grounded in empirical research, utilizing data collected from 257 exporting SMEs in the Caucasus region through a random sampling method, achieving a response rate of 57.1%, comparable to similar studies in international business. Data analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess both direct effects and moderating relationships.

Findings

The results confirm that government support, whether informational or experiential, significantly enhances SMEs’ performance in international markets. However, the relationship between government support and IP is moderated by the stability and specificity of the institutional environment. Institutional enforceability does not exhibit a significant moderating effect. Notably, institutional predictability moderates only the relationship between informational support and SMEs’ IP, highlighting the nuanced role of institutional context.

Originality/value

This research contributes to international business literature by applying an IBV, emphasizing the critical role of context in interactions among market stakeholders. It provides novel insights into how institutional context shapes the effectiveness of government support initiatives in fostering international success for SMEs, particularly in emerging economies. These findings advance the understanding of institutional context influences on SME internationalization and highlight the importance of tailoring government support in accordance with institutional context.
Prominent benefits and barriers to implementing electronic bidding for sustainable construction practices: evidence from key stakeholders in Vietnam
Authors: Van Tam Nguyen , Quoc Toan Nguyen , Hong An Pham
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Electronic bidding (e-bidding) offers a promising approach to promoting sustainable construction practices, yet research on its benefits and barriers remains underresearched. This study addresses this gap by investigating stakeholder perceptions to examine prominent benefits and barriers to implementing e-bidding for sustainable construction practices in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 104 construction professionals in Vietnam were analyzed through various statistical methods such as reliability testing, ANOVA analysis, Tukey’s post hoc analysis and ranking by mean scores.

Findings

The ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc tests revealed significant differences in how owners, authorities, and contractors perceive the benefits and barriers of e-bidding. The findings highlighted several key benefits, including enhanced storage and retrieval of information, support for digital transformation in construction and facilitation of new contractor entrance. In addition, the analysis underscored critical barriers, such as security and data privacy concerns, incompatible tools and a lack of support and expertise on national bidding platforms.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge by examining key stakeholders’ perceived benefits and barriers associated with e-bidding implementation in the context of sustainable construction practices. Practically, this study proposed specific actionable recommendations for stakeholders in Vietnam, which can ultimately contribute to more sustainable construction practices and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of e-bidding processes.
Exploring the nexus between social media marketing and patients’ participation in value co-creation: a pathway toward patient well-being
Authors: Hasan Md Moynul , Chang Yu , Hussain Khalid , Tingyu Lu
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Drawing on service-dominant logic and co-creation literature, this study explores how social media marketing activities (SMMAs) in online healthcare communities (OHCs) impact patients’ electronic word of mouth (E-WOM). Additionally, it aims to understand how patients’ E-WOM contributes to participation in value co-creation (PVCC) during the healthcare journey and influences patient well-being. This study also investigates the mediating role of patients’ E-WOM in bridging the relationship between the dimensions of SMMAs and patient PVCC dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 601 healthcare customers through a structured survey. Hypotheses were tested using partial least structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4.0.

Findings

Results demonstrate that interactivity and trendiness dimensions of SMMAs positively impact patients’ E-WOM communication. Patients’ E-WOM communication enhances their PVCC by influencing information seeking, information sharing, personal interaction and responsible behavior dimensions. Information seeking, personal interaction and responsible behavior in patient-provider interactions during the healthcare journey augment patients’ well-being, such as satisfying patients’ overall healthcare needs, ensuring mental peace and physical comfort and guaranteeing quality of life. Additionally, patients’ E-WOM mediates the relationship between SMMAs dimensions, such as interactivity and trendiness, with each dimension of patient PVCC.

Originality/value

This study extends the service-dominant logic and enriches the literature on healthcare service co-creation. It explores how SMMAs can enhance patient PVCC through E-WOM and improve patient well-being. Additionally, it provides valuable insights for social media marketing managers, healthcare professionals and marketing strategists.
Atypical mucocutaneous manifestations of MPOX: A systematic review
Authors: Grau‐Echevarría Andrés , Blaya‐Imbernón Daniel , Finello Malena , Zafrilla Elena Pérez , García Ángel González , Leal Rodrigo Peñuelas , Labrandero‐Hoyos Carolina , Magdaleno‐Tapial Jorge , Díez‐Recio Esther , Hernández‐Bel Pablo
Published: January 2025

MPOX is an orthopoxvirus whose infection has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in 2022 and 2024. It proved to be a virus with markedly heterogeneous and varied clinical presentation. We performed a systematic PubMed review of articles reporting cases of different clinical manifestations of MPOX until October 2024. The infection has mainly affected men who have sex with men. After 4 to 10 days of incubation, it presents with mucocutaneus lesions and systemic symptoms. Some anatomical sites have shown clinical particularities. Genital edema is a potentially serious complication. The ocular and ear/nose/throat area are other infrequent sites with specific manifestations. MPOX whitlow affects the third finger of the dominant hand and may be associated with extensive inflammation and proximal lymphangitis. Bacterial superinfection is a common complication in the genital area with good response to antibiotic treatment. Immunosuppressed patients may develop severe inflammation and necrosis resulting in poor prognosis. Some authors propose ulceronecrotic MPOX as a defining condition of AIDS. The involvement of women has been exceptional in the current outbreak and has predominantly affected the vulva. Some patients such as healthcare workers, atopics, and people who get tattoos are at risk of developing specific lesions via nonsexual routes. Other atypical manifestations include maculopapular rash and inguinal patch. MPOX is a highly relevant and ongoing infection that can present with multiple atypical manifestations, and the knowledge of which is of great importance to the clinician. We present a unique systematic review of atypical presentations of this infection that may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the immunocompromised population.
Effect of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in hemodialysis patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Qiuling , Dou Jun , Ao Hua , Guo Dongmei , Yang Xi , Li Ming
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) has shown potential in neurological, autoimmune, and cardiovascular disorders, but its effects on HD patients remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tVNS in HD patients.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled clinical trial on patients receiving HD ≥6 months. The tVNS group received stimulation for 1 h during the first 2 h of HD sessions, three times weekly for 8 weeks, while the control group received standard care. The primary outcomes were dialysis efficiency (Single‐pool Kt/V, Sp Kt/V) and dialysis‐related symptoms (Dialysis Symptom Index, DSI), assessed every 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes included pain and fatigue scores, physical performance, Hemodialysis Comfort Scale, hemoglobin levels, Mini‐Mental State Examination, and anxiety and depression scores, measured at baseline and 8 weeks after intervention.

Results

A total of 63 patients were enrolled in the study, with 32 patients assigned to the tVNS group and 31 patients to the control group. At 8 weeks, the tVNS group showed significant improvements in Sp Kt/V (1.31 ± 0.11 vs. 1.25 ± 0.10, p = 0.02), and DSI (12.09 ± 5.84 vs. 16.26 ± 5.27, p = 0.004), as well as reductions in pain and fatigue, and increases in physical function, comfort, and hemoglobin. However, there were no statistically significant changes observed in cognitive function, anxiety, or depression.

Conclusions

tVNS could improve dialysis efficiency, symptoms, and physical function in HD patients, indicating it may have a role as a complementary therapy.
AI Methods for Antimicrobial Peptides: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Brizuela Carlos A. , Liu Gary , Stokes Jonathan M. , de la Fuente‐Nunez Cesar
Published: January 2025

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising candidates to combat multidrug‐resistant pathogens. However, the high cost of extensive wet‐lab screening has made AI methods for identifying and designing AMPs increasingly important, with machine learning (ML) techniques playing a crucial role. AI approaches have recently revolutionised this field by accelerating the discovery of new peptides with anti‐infective activity, particularly in preclinical mouse models. Initially, classical ML approaches dominated the field, but recently there has been a shift towards deep learning (DL) models. Despite significant contributions, existing reviews have not thoroughly explored the potential of large language models (LLMs), graph neural networks (GNNs) and structure‐guided AMP discovery and design. This review aims to fill that gap by providing a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements, challenges and opportunities in using AI methods, with a particular emphasis on LLMs, GNNs and structure‐guided design. We discuss the limitations of current approaches and highlight the most relevant topics to address in the coming years for AMP discovery and design.
A Splice Site Variant in SENP7 Results in a Severe Form of Arthrogryposis
Authors: Kotecha Udhaya , Kim Euri S. , Shah Parth S. , Shah Nidhi , Gupta Vandana A.
Published: January 2025

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) is a heterogeneous disorder associated with 1/3000 to 1/5000 live births. We report a consanguineous family with multiple affected members with AMC and identified a recessive mutation in the highly conserved splice donor site, resulting in the mis‐splicing of the affected exons. SENP7 is a deSUMOylase that is critical for sarcomere assembly and skeletal muscle contraction by regulating the transcriptional program in the skeletal muscle. This is a reported case of an affected family with a noncoding, splice site SENP7 variant, expanding the spectrum of SENP7 as a causative gene in rare cases of lethal AMC.
Source Causal Connectivity Noninvasively Predicting Surgical Outcomes of Drug‐Refractory Epilepsy
Authors: Lin Wentao , Yang Danni , Chen Chen , Zhou Yuanfeng , Chen Wei , Wang Yalin
Published: January 2025

Aims

Drug‐refractory epilepsy (DRE) refers to the failure of controlling seizures with adequate trials of two tolerated and appropriately chosen anti‐seizure medications (ASMs). For patients with DRE, surgical intervention becomes the most effective and viable treatment, but its success rate is unsatisfactory at only approximately 50%. Predicting surgical outcomes in advance can provide additional guidance to clinicians. Despite the high accuracy of invasive methods, they inevitably carry the risk of post‐operative infection and complications. Herein, to noninvasively predict surgical outcomes of DRE, we propose the “source causal connectivity” framework.

Methods

In this framework, sLORETA, an EEG source imaging technique, was first used to inversely reconstruct intracranial neuronal electrical activity. Then, full convergent cross mapping (FCCM), a robust causal measure was introduced to calculate the causal connectivity between remodeled neuronal signals within epileptogenic zones (EZs). After that, statistical tests were performed to find out if there was a significant difference between the successful and failed surgical groups. Finally, a model for surgical outcome prediction was developed by combining causal network features with machine learning.

Results

A total of 39 seizures with 205 ictal EEG segments were included in this prospective study. Experimental results exhibit that source causal connectivity in α‐frequency band (8~13 Hz) gains the most significant differences between the surgical success and failure groups, with a p‐value of 5.00e‐05 and Cohen's d effect size of 0.68. All machine learning models can achieve an average accuracy of higher than 85%. Among them, the SVM classifier with Gaussian kernel function and Bayesian optimization demonstrates the highest accuracy of 90.73%, with a PPV of 87.91%, an NPV of 92.98%, a sensitivity of 90.91%, a specificity of 90.60%, and an F1‐score of 89.39%.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that the source causal network of EZ is a reliable biomarker for predicting DRE surgical outcomes. The findings promote noninvasive precision medicine for DRE.
Vimentin Inhibits Neuronal Apoptosis After Spinal Cord Injury by Enhancing Autophagy
Authors: Zhao Jie , Chen Kangzhen , Wang Tao , Qiu Xianxiu , Zhang Xiaomin , He Tao , Chen Liji , Chen Jiahong , Cui Xiaojun , Wu Hongfu
Published: January 2025

Aims

Neuron death is caused primarily by apoptosis after spinal cord injury (SCI). Autophagy, as a cellular response, can maintain cellular homeostasis to reduce apoptosis. We aimed to investigate the effect and the mechanism of vimentin knockdown on autophagy and neural recovery after SCI.

Methods

The SD rats with T10 complete transection as SCI model were used. The vimentin RNAi adenovirus was constructed and transplanted into T10 rats with total transection injury of the spinal cord, and the recovery of neurological and motor functions after SCI was evaluated by BBB score, footprint analysis, electrophysiological tests, and immunofluorescence staining. Protein and gene expression were assessed by Western blotting, CO‐IP, q‐PCR, and immunofluorescence. In addition, neuron‐like PC12 cells were infected with adenovirus to further elucidate the effect of vimentin on autophagy and the molecular mechanism of neuronal apoptosis after SCI.

Results

Inhibition of SCI induced‐vimentin upregulation improved motor function, enhanced the recovery of autophagy flux, and reduced neuronal apoptosis. Notably, this may be related to the formation of vimentin‐14‐3‐3‐Beclin1 complex and PI3K class III complex.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that inhibition of vimentin expression may enhance autophagy and anti‐apoptosis in neurons after SCI by affecting the formation of the vimentin‐14‐3‐3‐Beclin1 complex, thereby promoting neuronal recovery.
Neutrophilic Panniculitis Secondary to BRAF and MEK Inhibitor Therapy to Treat Stage IIIa Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Reed Tyra , Rivera Steven , Fisher Craig , Schaffenburg William
Published: January 2025

Panniculitides are a group of inflammatory disorders of the subcutaneous fat that have been reported as a rare complication of both a serine threonine kinase BRAF inhibitor monotherapy and BRAF inhibition in combination with a mitogen activated protein kinase (MEK) inhibitor combination therapy used to treat metastatic melanoma. The cutaneous manifestations of BRAF and BRAF/MEK therapies have been well documented, but neutrophilic panniculitis remains a less common complication with fewer case reports. Physician awareness of this complication when following patients on similar targeted therapies can decrease delays in appropriate management. We report a case of one patient who developed neutrophilic panniculitis during treatment with the BRAF/MEK combination of dabrafenib and trametinib. We followed the patient from initial presentation in the emergency department to diagnosis to include pathology findings of the disease. In this case of neutrophilic panniculitis, the patient presented with a history of stage IIIa (pT2a N1a M0) cutaneous melanoma of the right flank and developed classic painful nodules on the lower legs and arms with associated fever within the first 2 weeks after initiating adjuvant melanoma targeted therapy. The biopsies showed a mixed, neutrophilic panniculitis, without overlying epidermal changes. Given the patient's clinical history, the biopsy was consistent with a BRAF inhibitor induced neutrophilic panniculitis. The panniculitis resolved with symptomatic care and the patient was maintained on the antitumor therapies.
Pseudocellulitis in the Setting of Pemetrexed Treatment for Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Nguyen Cassidy M. , Robertson Jake C. , Cardenas Adam , Martinez Edgar , Keeling Brett H. , Nguyen Khang D.
Published: January 2025

Pemetrexed is a chemotherapeutic, antimetabolite agent that has been used in oncology to treat diseases such as metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer and unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma. Pemetrexed use may result in pseudocellulitis, which presents as poorly demarcated patches or plaques with erythema, edema, warmth, and tenderness. These lesions can present unilaterally or bilaterally on the lower extremities. The histologic appearance includes vacuolar interface dermatitis, squamous metaplasia of eccrine coils and ducts, sparse mixed neutrophilic and lymphocytic interstitial inflammatory infiltrate, and widened subcutaneous fibrous septa with cystic fat degeneration. We present the case of a 58‐year‐old woman with non‐small cell lung cancer and pemetrexed‐induced pseudocellulitis with distinctive histological features. The clinical appearance of patients with this hypersensitivity condition may mimic cellulitis, emphasizing the importance of increased awareness and consideration of pseudocellulitis in the differential diagnosis of patients on chemotherapy to avoid unnecessary hospitalization and treatment.