bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical crystallography reveals an allosteric network in SARS-CoV-2 Mpro
Authors: Creon Anne , Scheer T. Emilie S. , Reinke Patrick , Mashhour Aida Rahmani , Günther Sebastian , Niebling Stephan , Schamoni-Kast Kira , Uetrecht Charlotte , Meents Alke , Chapman Henry N. , Sprenger Janina , Lane Thomas J.
Published: January 2025

To interpret and transmit biological signals, proteins use correlated motions. Experimental determination of these dynamics with atomic resolution remains a key challenge. Here, using thousands of crystals of the main protease (Mpro) from SARS-CoV-2, we were able to infer a model of the protein’s correlated motions. Mprois regulated by concentration, becoming enzymatically active after forming a homodimer. To understand the correlated motions that enable dimerization to activate catalysis, we employed our model, predicting which regions of the dimerization domain are structurally linked to the active site. Mutations at these positions, expected to disrupt catalysis, resulted in a dramatic reduction in activity in one case, a mild effect in the second, and none in the third. Additional crystallography and biophysical experiments provide a mechanistic explanation for these results. Our work suggests that a statistical crystallography can determine protein correlated motions and rationalize their biological function.

Teaser

Crystallography at scale goes beyond a single structure, revealing native-state protein dynamics.
Experimental assessment of 3D-printed traps and chemical attractants for the collection of wildDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Keene-Snickers Alexandra H. , Dunham Tillie J. , Stenglein Mark D.
Published: January 2025

Drosophila melanogaster, the common fruit fly, has been instrumental to our understanding of evolution, genetics and disease. There are benefits to studying these flies in the wild, including assessment of their naturally occurring microbiota. To facilitate efforts to catch wildD. melanogaster, we designed two fly traps and evaluated several candidate attractants. The first trap utilized a stable food substrate that can be used to catch live flies to establish new lab colonies. The second trap was designed to be reusable and easy to ship to enable the collection of flies over time from diverse locations. We evaluated several chemical attractants derived from banana and from marula fruit, which is the proposed ancestral food host ofD. melanogaster. We found that wild flies were preferentially attracted to banana-based odorants over marula-derived ones. Overall, these traps and attractants represent an inexpensive and simple option for the collection of wildD. melanogasterand related species for sampling or colony establishment.
Multiplexing of visual-auditory signals in a predominantly auditory brain region
Authors: Schmehl Meredith N. , Chen Yunran , Tokdar Surya T. , Groh Jennifer M.
Published: January 2025

A recently proposed theory of neural representation postulates that when more than one stimulus is to be encoded, neurons in that representation may fluctuate between encoding each item. To date, such work has considered only cases in which both stimuli are of the same sensory modality, such as how two sounds are encoded in an auditory brain region. Here, we consider the influence of sensory modality on this process, asking whether stimuli of a non-dominant sensory modality can evoke or influence the fluctuating activity patterns observed for combinations of stimuli of a dominant sensory modality. Specifically, we investigated the impact of combining visual and auditory stimuli on single-unit activity in the inferior colliculus, a predominantly auditory structure, in monkeys performing a behavioral task involving reporting all stimulus locations in a given trial. We found that fluctuating activity is evident when a single sound and a single visual stimulus are paired at the same spatial location, indicating that fluctuating activity can be induced when one item is not from a brain area’s preferred modality, and even when only a single spatial location is involved and spatial attention is directed to only one place. Fluctuating activity was also identified when visual stimuli were paired with sounds presented at two spatial locations. The IC appeared to maintain a representation of all stimuli, regardless of the sequence in which the monkey localized the targets (although in one monkey there was a bias toward greater representation of the second reported location). Together, these results indicate that fluctuating activity occurs in response to multimodal stimuli in a predominantly unimodal brain structure and is geared toward preservation of all sensory information rather than attentional filtering.

Impact Statement

We found that when visual stimuli are paired with sounds, they can induce fluctuating activity in neurons that are primarily sensitive to sound alone. Such activity fluctuations may permit the representation of both the visual and auditory stimuli in an overlapping population of neurons.
A modular architecture for trial-by-trial learning of redundant muscle activity patterns in novel sensorimotor tasks
Authors: Rebelo Dal’Bello Lucas , Berger Denise Jennifer , Borzelli Daniele , Burdet Etienne , d’Avella Andrea
Published: January 2025

The coordination of the multiple degrees-of-freedom of the human body may be simplified by muscle synergies, motor modules which can be flexibly combined to achieve various goals. Studies investigating adaptation to novel relationships between muscle activity and task outcomes found that altering the recruitment of such modules is faster than the learning of their structuresde novo. However, how learning new synergy recruitments or new synergy structures may occur remains unclear. While trial-by-trial learning of novel sensorimotor tasks has been successfully modeled at the level of task variables, few models accounted for the redundancy of the motor system, particularly at the muscular level. However, these models either did not consider a modular architecture of the motor system, or assumeda prioriknowledge of the sensorimotor task. Here, we present a computational model for the generation of redundant muscle activity where explicitly defined modules, implemented as spatial muscle synergies, can be updated together with their recruitment coefficients through an error-based learning process dependent on a forward model of the sensorimotor task, which is not assumed to be known a priori. Our model can qualitatively reproduce the experimental observations of slower learning and larger changes in the structure of the muscle activity under sensorimotor tasks that require the learning of novel patterns of muscle activity, providing further insights into the modular organization of the human motor system.

Author summary

It has been proposed that muscles are recruited in modules, called muscle synergies, rather than on a muscle-by-muscle basis. This modular organization was shown to affect the learning of novel tasks, where simulated remapping of the forces generated by the muscles (“virtual surgeries”) that make the synergies ineffective are more difficult to learn. Previous models of trial-by-trial learning in a modular architecture have assumed prior knowledge of the motor task (in particular, how to modify the muscles / synergies recruitment given an error), which might not be the case for tasks in which novel patterns of muscle activity are required. In contrast, models which assumed no prior knowledge of the task have not investigated the role of modularity. Here, we propose a computational model of the trial-by-trial adaptation of muscle synergies, their recruitment, and the concurrent learning of the internal model of the musculoskeletal system responsible for error correction. Our results show that this model replicates experimental observations of slower learning and larger changes in the structure of the muscle activity in sensorimotor tasks that require the learning of novel patterns of muscle activity, providing insight into learning-related changes of muscle activity in novel sensorimotor tasks.
Anterior cingulate cortex in complex associative learning: monitoring action state and action content
Authors: Huang Wenqiang , Hall Arron F , Kawalec Natalia , Opalka Ashley N , Liu Jun , Wang Dong V
Published: January 2025

Environmental changes necessitate adaptive responses, and thus the ability to monitor one’s actions and their connection to specific cues and outcomes is crucial for survival. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is implicated in these processes, yet its precise role in action monitoring and outcome evaluation remains unclear. To investigate this, we developed a novel discrimination–avoidance task for mice, designed with clear temporal separation between actions and outcomes. Our findings show that ACC neurons primarily encode post-action variables over extended periods, reflecting the animal’s preceding actions rather than the outcomes or values of those actions. Specifically, we identified two distinct subpopulations of ACC neurons: one encoding the action state (whether an action was taken) and the other encoding the action content (which action was taken). Importantly, increased post-action ACC activity was associated with better performance in subsequent trials. These findings suggest that the ACC supports complex associative learning through extended signaling of rich action-relevant information, thereby bridging cue, action, and outcome associations.
Mathematical modelling of tissue growth control by a negative feedback
Authors: Kazmierczak B. , Volpert V.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the regulation of tissue growth through mathematical modeling of systemic and local feedback mechanisms. Employing reaction-diffusion equations, the models explore the dynamics of tissue growth, emphasizing endocrine signaling and inter-tissue communication. The analysis identifies critical factors influencing the emergence of spatial structures, bifurcation phenomena, the existence and stability of stationary pulse and wave solutions. It also elucidates mechanisms for achieving coordinated tissue growth. In particular, if negative feedback is sufficiently strong, their final finite size is provided by a stable pulse, otherwise they manifest unlimited growth in the form of a wave. These findings contribute to the theoretical insights into biological processes such as embryogenesis, regeneration, and tumor development, while highlighting the role of feedback systems in maintaining physiological homeostasis.
Identification of M4muscarinic acetylcholine receptor expressing astrocytes that regulate locomotion and survival in murine prion disease
Authors: Tejeda Gonzalo S. , Molloy Collin , Jones Carrie K. , Lindsley Craig W. , Milligan Graeme , Tobin Andrew B.
Published: January 2025

Whilst there has been much focus on the function of neuronally expressed members of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor family (mAChR) less attention has been paid to the expression profile and role of the five members of this family (M1-M5mAChRs) in non-neuronal cells of the brain. Using genetically engineered mice we identify a previously unappreciated sub-population of astrocytes expressing the M4mAChR subtype. These are located in various brain regions that include the brainstem, hypothalamus and, most abundantly, the cerebellum. Signalling and proteomic analysis of M4mAChR positive astrocytes from the cerebellum established the functional expression of this receptor subtype and its role in the regulation of protein expression. Genetic ablation of M4mAChR positive astrocytes in mice revealed a specific role in locomotion behaviour. Importantly, in the context of murine prion disease, a model of terminal neurodegeneration associated with profound neuroinflammation, we observed a significant expansion of M4mAChR positive astrocytes and report ablation experiments that established that this astrocyte sub-population has a detrimental effect on late-stage disease. Together we provide evidence of a sub-population of M4mAChR expressing astrocytes that play a specific role in normal neurophysiology and the progression of inflammatory neurodegenerative disease.
Shock-driven amorphization and melting in
Fe2O3
Authors: Crépisson Céline , Amouretti Alexis , Harmand Marion , Sanloup Chrystèle , Heighway Patrick , Azadi Sam , McGonegle David , Campbell Thomas , Pintor Juan , Chin David Alexander , Smith Ethan , Hansen Linda , Forte Alessandro , Gawne Thomas , Lee Hae Ja , Nagler Bob , Shi YuanFeng , Fiquet Guillaume , Guyot François , Makita Mikako , Benuzzi-Mounaix Alessandra , Vinci Tommaso , Miyanishi Kohei , Ozaki Norimasa , Pikuz Tatiana , Nakamura Hirotaka , Sueda Keiichi , Yabuuchi Toshinori , Yabashi Makina , Wark Justin S. , Polsin Danae N. , Vinko Sam M.
Published: January 2025

We present measurements on Fe2O3 amorphization and melt under laser-driven shock compression up to 209(10) GPa via time-resolved x-ray diffraction. At 122(3) GPa, a diffuse signal is observed indicating the presence of a noncrystalline phase. Structure factors have been extracted up to 182(6) GPa showing the presence of two well-defined peaks. A rapid change in the intensity ratio of the two peaks is identified between 145(12) and 151(12) GPa, indicative of a phase change. The noncrystalline diffuse scattering is consistent with shock amorphization of Fe2O3 between 122(3) and 145(12) GPa, followed by an amorphous-to-liquid transition above 151(12) GPa. Upon release, a noncrystalline phase is observed alongside crystalline α−Fe2O3. The extracted structure factor and pair distribution function of this release phase resemble those reported for Fe2O3 melt at ambient pressure.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Exploring the interference between the atmospheric and solar neutrino oscillation subamplitudes
Authors: Barenboim Gabriela , Parke Stephen J.
Published: January 2025

The interference between the atmospheric and solar neutrino oscillation subamplitudes is said to be responsible for CP violation () in neutrino appearance channels. More precisely, is generated by the interference between the parts of the neutrino oscillation amplitude that are CP even and CP odd: even or odd when the neutrino mixing matrix is replaced with its complex conjugate. This is the interference term, as it gives a contribution to the oscillation probability, the square of the amplitude, which is opposite in sign for neutrinos and antineutrinos and is unique. For this interference to be nonzero, at least two subamplitudes are required. There are, however, other interference terms, which are even under the above exchange, and these are the CP conserving () interference terms. In this paper, we explore in detail these interference terms and show that they cannot be uniquely defined, as one can move pieces of the amplitude from the atmospheric subamplitude to the solar subamplitude and vice versa. This freedom allows one to move the interference terms around, but does not let you eliminate them completely. We also show that there is a reasonable definition of the atmospheric and solar subamplitudes for the appearance channels such that in neutrino disappearance probability there is no atmospheric-solar interference term. However, with this choice, there is a interference term within the atmospheric sector.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Unveiling the
CP
-odd Higgs boson in a generalized 2HDM at a muon collider
Authors: Das Nandini , Ghosh Nivedita
Published: January 2025

We revisit the generalized two-Higgs-doublet model (2HDM) with a lepton specific (Type-X) Yukawa sector in context of the muon collider. The model offers a large region of parameter space where it can provide a solution to the observed muon (g−2) excess. Specifically the low mass CP odd scalar of this model plays an important role to fit this anomaly. Interestingly, the coupling of the pseudoscalar with the muons is proportional to tanβ (which equals to the ratio of vacuum expectation values of the Higgs doublets) which dominantly controls the one loop and two loop contributions of the muon magnetic moment, therefore it can be probed directly at a muon collider with greater sensitivity in comparison to the Large Hadron Collider. Primarily focusing on a parameter space where muon g−2 anomaly is satisfied, we explore the available theoretical and experimental constraints arising from vacuum stability, unitarity, lepton flavor violation, electroweak precision constraint, B-meson decay, and collider experiments on the model. In the parameter space where all these constraints are satisfied, we propose to study the production of the light pseudoscalar A in association with a photon at a 3 TeV muon collider. Subsequent decay of A into a τ pair will produce a striking l+l−γ plus missing energy signature.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Bounded islands in a
dS2
multiverse model
Authors: Jiang Wen-Hao , Piao Yun-Song
Published: January 2025

The cosmological event horizons are observer dependent, which might result in a paradox. As an example, in a dS2 multiverse model, there are entanglement islands in crunching regions encoding the information of regions near future infinity of inflating or Minkowski bubbles; however, for two observers in different bubbles, since their island regions overlap, both observers will be able to get access to the information encoded in the overlapping region, indicating a violation of the no-cloning theorem. In this paper, we present a different resolution to this paradox. Based on the Petz Rényi mutual information, we show that besides the quantum extremal surfaces, there might be another boundary for the island in corresponding spacetime so that the island regions are bounded by “division points” rather than extending to the rest of the entire spacetime. We also discuss the implications of our result.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Geodesics connecting endpoints of timelike interval in an asymptotically AdS spacetime
Authors: He Jia-Hao , Yang Run-Qiu
Published: January 2025

In the duality of 3-dimensional anti de-Sitter (AdS) spacetime and 2-dimensional conformal field theory (CFT), it was argued that the holographic entanglement entropy between two timelike separated events needs both timelike and spacelike geodesics. This paper studies the possibility of using smooth spacelike geodesics to connect two timelike separated events of boundary. We find that in a spherically symmetry Schwarzschild anti-de Sitter spacetime black hole, smooth spacelike geodesics can connect timelike-separated points by winding around the horizon multiple times. A similar result will also happen in a three-dimensional asymptotically AdS black hole that contains a photon ring in the bulk. Our result suggests that, if there is a photon ring, then the timelike entanglement entropy in the AdS3/CFT2 duality may not have an imaginary part. The result implies that the bulk photon ring may play an important role in understanding analytical behaviors of the entanglement spectrum for AdS3/CFT2 duality.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Impact of pressure anisotropy on the cascade rate of Hall magnetohydrodynamic turbulence with biadiabatic ions
Authors: Simon Pauline A. , Sahraoui Fouad , Galtier Sébastien , Laveder Dimitri , Passot Thierry , Sulem Pierre-Louis
Published: January 2025

The impact of ion pressure anisotropy on the energy cascade rate of Hall-MHD turbulence with biadiabatic ions and isothermal electrons is evaluated in three-dimensional direct numerical simulations, using the exact (or third-order) law derived by Simon and Sahraoui in 2022. It is shown that pressure anisotropy can enhance or reduce the cascade rate, depending on the scales, in comparison with the prediction of the exact law with isotropic pressure, by an amount that correlates well with pressure anisotropy, ap=p⊥p∥≠1, that develops in simulations initialized with an isotropic pressure (ap0=1). A simulation with initial pressure anisotropy ap0=4 confirms this trend, exhibiting a stronger impact on the cascade rate, both in the inertial range and at larger scales, close to the forcing scales. Furthermore, a Fourier-based numerical method, to compute exact laws in numerical simulations in the full (ℓ⊥,ℓ∥) increment plane, is presented.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Anisotropic Skyrmion and Multi-
q
Spin Dynamics in Centrosymmetric
Gd2PdSi3
Authors: Gomilšek M. , Hicken T. J. , Wilson M. N. , Franke K. J. A. , Huddart B. M. , Štefančič A. , Holt S. J. R. , Balakrishnan G. , Mayoh D. A. , Birch M. T. , Moody S. H. , Luetkens H. , Guguchia Z. , Telling M. T. F. , Baker P. J. , Clark S. J. , Lancaster T.
Published: January 2025

Skyrmions are particlelike vortices of magnetization with nontrivial topology, which are usually stabilized by Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions (DMI) in noncentrosymmetric bulk materials. Exceptions are centrosymmetric Gd- and Eu-based skyrmion-lattice (SL) hosts with zero DMI, where both the SL stabilization mechanisms and magnetic ground states remain controversial. We address these here by investigating both the static and dynamical spin properties of the centrosymmetric SL host Gd2PdSi3 using muon spectroscopy. We find that spin fluctuations in the noncoplanar SL phase are highly anisotropic, implying that spin anisotropy plays a prominent role in stabilizing this phase. We also observe strongly anisotropic spin dynamics in the ground-state (IC-1) incommensurate magnetic phase of the material, indicating that it hosts a meronlike multi-q structure. In contrast, the higher-field, coplanar IC-2 phase is found to be single q with nearly isotropic spin dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Hybrid Tree Tensor Networks for Quantum Simulation
Authors: Schuhmacher Julian , Ballarin Marco , Baiardi Alberto , Magnifico Giuseppe , Tacchino Francesco , Montangero Simone , Tavernelli Ivano
Published: January 2025

Hybrid tensor networks (hTNs) offer a promising solution for encoding variational quantum states beyond the capabilities of efficient classical methods or noisy quantum computers alone. However, their practical usefulness and many operational aspects of hTN-based algorithms, like the optimization of hTNs, the generalization of standard contraction rules to an hybrid setting, and the design of application-oriented architectures have not been thoroughly investigated yet. In this work, we introduce a novel algorithm to perform ground-state optimizations with hybrid tree tensor networks (hTTNs), discussing its advantages and roadblocks, and identifying a set of promising applications. We benchmark our approach on two paradigmatic models, namely the Ising model at the critical point and the Toric-code Hamiltonian. In both cases, we successfully demonstrate that hTTNs can improve upon classical equivalents with equal bond dimension in the classical part.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Influence mechanisms of digital construction organizations’ capabilities on performance: evidence from SEM and fsQCA
Authors: Chen Yonghong , Qiu Wenyi , Xiao Mengxia
Published: January 2025

Purpose

With the rise of digital construction, using organizational capabilities to improve project performance in a turbulent environment has become critical for the high-quality development of the construction industry. However, the complex relationships among them remain unclear. Therefore, this study explores these linear relationships under the digital construction mode and reveals the driving mechanism of multi-factor linkage on project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 263 project participants in digital construction projects in China using a questionnaire. Hypothesis testing was conducted using partial least square structural equation modeling, and the differentiated patterns of project performance formation were revealed through fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

Organizational information technology, innovation, coordination, integration management and emergency management capabilities improve project performance. Environmental turbulence is a positive moderator between coordination capabilities and project performance, while other capabilities do not align with environmental turbulence. The research obtained five equivalent configurations for achieving high project performance, such as “capability layout” and “internal driven,” and two paths that lead to non-high project performance. Finally, in contrast to existing studies, we discovered the outstanding contribution of emergency management capabilities to project performance and the auxiliary effect of information technology capabilities.

Originality/value

This study innovatively integrates a dimensional framework of construction project organizations’ capabilities under a digital construction mode and extends the organizational capabilities to the specific and operational capability dimension level. Furthermore, this study opens the “black box” of the influence of organizational capabilities on project performance in environmental turbulence and reveals the differentiated and equivalent configurations for the formation of project performance. The study broadens the theoretical perspective of organizational capabilities on project performance research in the digital context and provides practical enlightenment for guiding the capability configuration of construction project organizations in a turbulent environment. The study broadens the theoretical perspective of organizational capabilities on project performance research in the digital context and provides practical enlightenment for guiding the capability configuration of construction project organizations in a turbulent environment.
Assessment of the challenges of integrating cyber-physical systems in Nigerian construction
Authors: Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Adekunye Olusegun Johnson , Adeosun Femi Emmanuel , Aliu John , Akanni Prince Oluleye , Aghimien Douglas , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The internet’s revolutionary impact on communication, information access and business transactions exemplifies how technology can reshape human behaviour. Similarly, cyber-physical systems (CPSs) hold immense potential to transform our interaction and control of the physical environment. This study investigates the challenges hindering the adoption of CPSs in Nigeria’s construction industry, aiming to pave the way for a more sustainable future in construction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined challenges related to CPSs in Nigerian sustainable construction projects. Data were gathered through a literature review and a questionnaire survey of Lagos-based construction professionals (architects, quantity surveyors, engineers and builders). Statistical methods were used to analyse the data. Mean and standard deviation determined respondents’ opinions’ central tendency and variability. The data’s suitability for factor analysis was confirmed through Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett’s sphericity tests, indicating strong correlations between variables. Factor analysis subsequently identified key challenges hindering CPSs implementation in Nigerian construction.

Findings

The mean and standard deviation analysis findings indicated that the most significant challenges of CPSs for sustainable construction projects in Nigeria are lack of awareness, inadequate public–private partnership, professional complacencies, data overload and lack of capital. In addition, the analysis was also conducted using factor analysis, which includes five groupings: financial inhibition, management barrier, geopolitical inhibition, national security and lack of awareness.

Originality/value

This study recommended that the challenges listed in this study should be considered and worked on through financial, political and professional support of CPSs for sustainable construction projects, such as Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) programmes and national awareness programmes.
The moderating role of perceived trust in predicting the adoption intention of consumers toward online pharmacies using the application of UTAUT model
Authors: Saraswat Sanjeev , Singh Pankaj
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to identify the factors influencing consumer perception and adoption intention toward online pharmacy.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was formulated based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) framework scales available in the existing literature. An aggregate of 451 respondents participated in the survey. To test the formulated hypothesis, confirmatory factor analysis and structure equation modeling are used for analyzing the structural relationships between dependent and independent variables.

Findings

This analysis inspects the significant effect of perceived trust, consumer perception and different UTAUT framework constructs on the adoption intention of online pharmacy consumers. The results determine the substantial moderating effect of perceived trust between adoption intention and consumers’ perception of online pharmacies.

Research limitations/implications

This research extended the application of the UTAUT model with the adoption intention of online pharmacy consumers. Only specific constructs have been selected from the UTAUT model in this study.

Practical implications

The study outcomes are useful to pharmacy managers to realize the role of technological platforms in facilitating the online selling of medicines to pharmacy consumers.

Social implications

The findings are helpful for pharmaceutical companies to improve their existing online buying process for pharmacy consumers seeking purchase of medicines through online pharmacies.

Originality/value

This analysis is unique and contains newness in the form of the moderating role of perceived trust between constructs of UTAUT and customer adoption of online pharmacies.
New experiences in the medical industry: online-to-offline (O2O) commerce usage intentions
Authors: Chin Chee Hua , Wong Jacqueline Wei-Chi , Chan Wei Chiang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to propose a research framework grounded in the technology acceptance model (TAM) to assess the new service experiences in the medical industry through examining the intention to use online-to-offline (O2O) medical platforms. It focuses on the connections between immediacy of connection, context-based affordability, reliability and perceived convenience and perceived usefulness. This study also looks at how these determinants affect users’ intentions to use O2O medical platforms, with a particular emphasis on the moderating effect of customer online reviews.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was a quantitative research endeavour grounded in the TAM model that analysed usage intention of O2O medical platforms. Conducted in Sarawak, within the Borneo region, a total of 251 rows of data were collected by questionnaire and underwent initial analysis using SPSS, followed by a more in-depth two-stage partial least squares structural equation model analysis conducted with SmartPLS4.

Findings

According to this study’s findings, perceived usefulness and perceived convenience are significantly impacted by the proposed predictors – immediacy of connection, context-based affordability and reliability. Furthermore, intention to use O2O medical platforms was discovered to have a positive and significant impact from perceived usefulness and perceived convenience. It is noteworthy that the association among perceived convenience and perceived usefulness – which leads to usage intention of O2O medical platforms – did not show the moderating effect of customer online reviews.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggested that context-based affordability, immediacy of connection and reliability need to be focused on by the information and communication technology developers, policymakers and medical professionals, as these variables can influence perceived convenience and usefulness, which will further impact the intention to use O2O medical platforms.

Originality/value

The formulated research framework holds significance in comprehending the usage intention of O2O medical platforms among consumers in Sarawak. O2O medical platforms have experienced global growth; however, limited studies were found in the Malaysian context. Hence, the objective of this study is to examine the intention to use O2O medical platforms in a relatively understudied area, specifically in Sarawak, an island located in Borneo, Malaysia.
Financing entrepreneurial firms in Jordan: technological versus traditional methods
Authors: Abdelfattah Maisam , Abdullatif Modar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the experiences of Jordanian entrepreneurs in using traditional and technological methods to finance their firms and the factors affecting their choices of financing methods.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers applied a qualitative approach, conducting 24 semi-structured interviews with Jordanian entrepreneurs who have experience with traditional or technological financing methods.

Findings

Users of technological financing methods preferred them given the ease of obtaining the fund and the opportunity to test the project’s viability, while users of traditional methods preferred them due to clear goals and regular meetings with the investors, and benefiting from the investor’s mentoring and networks. However, traditional methods were seen as needing more time, requiring high costs and facing pressure from investors for quick results, while technological methods were seen as requiring dealing with too many individuals. Users of both types of methods were critical of the current regulations regarding entrepreneurial firms in Jordan.

Originality/value

This study contributes to our knowledge by exploring preferences of entrepreneurs and problems facing them in funding their firms in the emerging economy context of Jordan. Findings of this study can, to some extent, be extended to similar emerging economies and assist in creating a better environment for entrepreneurship in these countries.
Effectiveness of remote teaching during covid-19 pandemic in a small business program
Authors: Zhu Jishan , Onorato Michael
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The paper aims to compare remote teaching effectiveness with face-to-face classroom teaching. This study seeks to investigate the influence of remote teaching on student academic learning during the pandemic compared to prepandemic, utilizing self-reported data from students.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on information extracted from the Student Course Evaluation. The study defines Spring 2019 and Fall 2019 semesters as prepandemic and labels them as the comparison base period. Spring 2020, Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 semesters are considered “during the pandemic” for comparison.

Findings

Upon comparing the average scores, the study findings indicate that students experienced a reduction in learning during the pandemic in contrast to the prepandemic period. Notably, a substantial decline in student academic learning was observed in the Spring 2020, followed by the Fall 2020 semesters. However, with the passage of time, the adverse impact of remote teaching on student learning showed a gradual decrease. In the Spring 2021 semester, students’ self-reports on learning in their business courses returned to prepandemic levels.

Research limitations/implications

The study has relied on secondary data sources and student self-reporting. Future research should aim to use more controlled data to mitigate the limitations associated with secondary data.

Practical implications

The study suggests that remote teaching could be as effective as face-to-face classroom teaching, and administrators of universities and colleges may consider it a viable option in the future.

Originality/value

This paper adds an important (probably first) empirical study of remote teaching effectiveness to the field of online learning literature.
Cloud-based artificial intelligence and audit report: the mediating role of the auditor
Authors: Abu Huson Yazan , Sierra García Laura , García Benau María Antonia , Mohammad Aljawarneh Nader
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between cloud-based artificial intelligence (CBAI) and audit reports, specifically emphasizing the mediating role played by auditors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach, distributing 322 questionnaires to external auditors in Jordan to explore the potential enhancements of CBAI in auditing. Convenient random sampling was used to gather data from available members of the population, which comprises external audit offices in Jordan. There are a total of 454 audit offices in Jordan, employing diverse auditors, such as partner-owner auditors, assistant auditors and certified auditors. Data analysis was conducted using SmartPLS software, which uses structural equation modeling.

Findings

The study’s findings suggest potential cost savings associated with CBAI adoption, streamlined audit processes and increased overall efficiency, thereby boosting audit effectiveness and elevating the quality of audit reports. Moreover, the research observes a change in the role of auditors, with a greater emphasis on analytical and advisory tasks rather than traditional manual procedures. These insights highlight the potential benefits for both auditors and audit clients, underscoring the importance of embracing these technologies to propel the auditing profession forward in the digital era.

Originality/value

This study contributes insights into the impact of CBAI on the audit profession by acknowledging the shift in auditing techniques from manual to digital technology and emphasizing the benefits of cloud computing in terms of accessibility, flexibility, scalability of storage and use of financial data. It also stresses the use of CBAI technology and highlights its potential for automating and accelerating audit operations, efficiently managing client data and improving the accuracy and reliability of audit reports.
Epigenetic modulation rescues neurodevelopmental deficits in Syngap1+/− mice
Authors: Singh Akash Kumar , Joshi Ila , Reddy Neeharika M. N. , Purushotham Sushmitha S. , Eswaramoorthy M. , Vasudevan Madavan , Banerjee Sourav , Clement James P. , Kundu Tapas K.
Published: January 2025

SYNGAP1 is a Ras GTPase‐activating protein that plays a crucial role during brain development and in synaptic plasticity. Sporadic heterozygous mutations in SYNGAP1 affect social and emotional behaviour observed in intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although neurophysiological deficits have been extensively studied, the epigenetic landscape of SYNGAP1 mutation‐mediated intellectual disability is unexplored. Here, we have found that the p300/CBP specific acetylation marks of histones are significantly repressed in the hippocampus of adolescent Syngap1+/− mice. Additionally, we observed decreased dendritic branching of newly born DCX+ neurons in these mice, suggesting altered adult hippocampal neurogenesis. To establish the causal relationship of Syngap1+/− phenotype and the altered histone acetylation signature we have treated 2–4 months old Syngap1+/− mice with glucose‐derived carbon nanosphere (CSP) conjugated potent small molecule activator (TTK21) of p300/CBP lysine acetyltransferase (CSP‐TTK21). The enhancement of the p300/CBP specific acetylation marks of histones by CSP‐TTK21 restored synaptic functions, increased dendritic branching of DCX+ neurons, enables the capability to reorganise cortical circuits in response to change in the sensory stimuli, and improves behavioural measures in Syngap1+/− mice that are very closely comparable to wild type littermates. Further, hippocampal RNA‐Seq analysis of these mice revealed that the expression of many critical genes such as Adcy1, Ntrk3, Egr1, and Foxj1 which are key regulators of synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis and are well associated with ID/ASD reversed upon CSP‐TTK21 treatment. This study could be the first demonstration of the reversal of autistic behaviour and neural wiring upon the modulation of altered epigenetic modification(s).
Clinical outcomes and feasibility of implementing outpatient labor induction with misoprostol: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Marsdal Kjersti Engen , Sørbye Ingvil Krarup , Bernitz Stine , Adan Nasreen , Grødal Elin Baustad , Jacobsen Anne Flem , Lukasse Mirjam
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In response to the increasing rates of induction of labor (IOL), outpatient IOL has emerged as a potential approach to enhance women's satisfaction while reducing costs and staffing requirements. There is a growing interest in oral misoprostol as an outpatient IOL method, particularly in the Nordic region. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes and feasibility of implementing IOL with oral misoprostol as an outpatient procedure.

Material and Methods

This multicenter, prospective cohort study is part of the Labor Induction Inpatient and Outpatient (LINO) project (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04746248). Women with low‐risk pregnancies undergoing IOL with oral misoprostol were offered outpatient treatment as an alternative to the standard inpatient approach. The primary outcome was the proportion of births and adverse events occurring before or within 30 min after admission, comparing outpatient and inpatient groups. Secondary outcomes included maternal and neonatal safety and efficacy endpoints.

Results

During the study period, 212 women were included in the study: 123 (58.0%) in the outpatient group and 89 (42.0%) in the inpatient group. No births occurred before admission to the hospital or within the first 30 min after admission. Adverse events were rare, and there were no significant differences in safety outcomes between the groups. The duration from hospital admission to giving birth was significantly shorter among women in the outpatient group as compared to the inpatient group (12.3 h vs. 28.1 h, p = 0.001). In the outpatient group, 76.4% of the women completed the misoprostol treatment as outpatients.

Conclusions

In this study of 212 women undergoing IOL with oral misoprostol, we found similar safety outcomes between women who chose outpatient IOL and those who chose inpatient IOL. The outpatient group had significantly shorter hospital stays before giving birth, and more than three in four women in the outpatient group completed the misoprostol treatment as outpatients. While larger studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions, our study suggests that implementing oral misoprostol in an outpatient IOL protocol may represent a safe and feasible alternative.
Regulatory T Cells for Stroke Recovery: A Promising Immune Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Li Ning , Wang Hujun , Hu Changbin , Qie Shuyan , Liu Zongjian
Published: January 2025

Background

Stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and disability among adults. Given the restricted therapeutic window for intravascular interventions and neuroprotection during the acute phase, there has been a growing focus on tissue repair and functional recovery in the subacute and chronic phases after stroke. The pro‐inflammatory microglial polarization occurs in subacute and chronic phases after stroke and may represent therapeutic targets for stroke recovery. CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), a subtype of T cells with immunosuppressive effects, have been shown to be important in stroke. Tregs infiltrate into the brain primarily during the subacute and chronic phases following a stroke. Infiltrating Tregs play a critical role in mitigating pro‐inflammatory microglial responses, modulating the immune microenvironment, and promoting the functional restoration of the damaged brain following a stroke.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science and then conduct a comprehensive analysis of the searched literature.

Results

This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent preclinical research advances on the role of Tregs in stroke, with a particular focus on their reparative functions during the subacute and chronic phases. It discusses changes in peripheral and brain infiltrating Tregs post‐stroke, their functions and underlying mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies involving Tregs. Additionally, this review explores the potential and challenges associated with the clinical application of Tregs in ischemic stroke.

Conclusion

Treg cell‐related therapy represents a promising immune‐therapeutic strategy for stroke recovery. However, there are several critical issues that must be resolved before its advancement to clinical application.
Impact of Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion on Inpatient Cost: A Propensity Score‐Matched Analysis of the US Nationwide Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Database
Authors: Yin Victoria , Atay Scott M. , Rodman John C. S. , Wightman Sean C. , Rosenberg Graeme M. , Udelsman Brooks V. , Kim Anthony W. , Harano Takashi
Published: January 2025

Background

The goal of this study was to investigate the association between ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) use and inpatient hospitalization cost for lung transplantation in a nationwide sample.

Methods

Lung transplantation patients in 2018–2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) were grouped based on use of EVLP. The primary outcome was total inpatient hospitalization cost. 1:2 propensity score matching by EVLP status was performed followed by multivariable linear regression to determine the association between inpatient cost and EVLP while adjusting for pre‐transplant hospital days, high volume EVLP center status, and propensity score.

Results

There were 3902 lung transplants and 118 (3%) were recipients of EVLP lungs. Among EVLP patients, the median cost was $871 468 (IQR: $608 671–1 274 392), compared to $846 516 (IQR: $531 462–1 439 267, p = 0.871) among the total non‐EVLP cohort. After 1:2 propensity score‐matched cohort, recipients of EVLP lungs had longer median hospital length of stay (p = 0.046). In the multivariable model using the matched sample, increased cost was not associated with EVLP use (p = 0.783); however, high volume EVLP centers were associated with decreased cost (p = 0.018).

Conclusions

EVLP use was not associated with greater inpatient costs and may be favorable at high volume centers.
Quality‐of‐Life Measurement in Epidermolysis Bullosa. Position Statement of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Task Force on Quality of Life and Patient‐Oriented Outcomes and External Experts
Authors: Chernyshov Pavel V. , Finlay Andrew Y. , Tomas‐Aragones Lucia , Poot Francoise , Murrell Dedee F. , Pustisek Nives , Svensson Ake , Marron Servando E. , Sampogna Francesca , Bewley Anthony , Salavastru Carmen , Koumaki Dimitra , Suru Alina , Yordanova Ivelina A. , Zemskov Serhiy , Tsymbaliuk Ruslan , Ostapko Olena , Augustin Matthias , Abeni Damiano , Szepietowski Jacek C. , Jemec Gregor B.
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Task Force on Quality of Life (QoL) and Patient‐Oriented Outcomes presents its position statements on health‐related (HR) QoL assessment in epidermolysis bullosa (EB). The EADV TF on QoL and Patient‐Oriented Outcomes recommends the use of the EB‐specific instrument QOLEB in patients over the age of 10 years and, in addition to the QOLEB, the use of iscorEB‐p in moderate‐to‐severe EB; the IntoDermQoL proxy instrument with its EB‐specific module should be used in children aged under 5 years. The EB‐specific instrument iscorEB‐p, and the dermatology‐specific instrument CDLQI may measure HRQoL in children with EB aged from 5 to 10 years. Dermatology‐specific and/or generic HRQoL instruments should be used to compare the impact on QoL of EB with other diseases; family QoL of patients with EB should be studied using the EB‐specific EB‐BoD, dermatology‐specific family measures, and/or generic family QoL instruments.