bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Language comprehension developmental milestones in typically developing children assessed by the new Language Phenotype Assessment (LPA)
Authors: Vyshedskiy Andrey , Pevzner Ariella , Mack Brigid , Shrayer Eva , Zea Miranda , Bunner Sasha , Wong Nicole , Baskina Elena , Sheikh Amira , Tagliavia Alessandro , Fucks Andriane Schmiedel , Santos Andressa Schmiedel Sanches , Poloni Lucas Ernesto Pavoski , Fucks Elielton , Bolotovsky Yudit , Kang Sung Jin (Sam)
Published: January 2025

We recently identified three distinct phenotypes of language comprehension in 31,000 autistic individuals1: 1) individuals with the Command Phenotype were limited to comprehension of simple commands; 2) individuals with the Modifier Phenotype demonstrated additional comprehension of color, size, and number modifiers; and 3) individuals with the Syntactic Phenotype added comprehension of spatial prepositions, verb tenses, flexible syntax, possessive pronouns, complex explanations, and fairytales. We hypothesized that typically developing children progress through the same three language comprehension phenotypes and aimed to investigate the typical age at which each phenotype emerged. To evaluate comprehension in young children, we developed a new assessment, the 15-item Language Phenotype Assessment (LPA), which utilizes toy-animal manipulatives to avoid reliance on picture interpretation and includes short instructions to reduce auditory memory load. The LPA was administered to 116 typically-developing children aged 1.5 to 7 years. Results revealed a developmental pattern in line with the three previously described phenotypes: 50% of typically developing children attained the Command Phenotype by 1.5-years, the Modifier Phenotype by 3.0-years, and the Syntactic Phenotype by 3.7-years-of-age. Future research should focus on establishing normative data for the LPA to enable earlier identification of language comprehension challenges, facilitating timely initiation of language interventions.
Development and quality assessment of low-cost benchtop malting protocol for laboratory-scale malt quality evaluation
Authors: Rani Heena , Standish Andrew , Walling Jason G , Whitcomb Sarah J
Published: January 2025

High-quality malt is influenced by three primary factors: barley genotype, environmental conditions, and malting process. To effectively evaluate malting barley breeding material and assess how environmental changes influence malt quality, it is essential to have laboratory- scale malting methods that can produce malt approximating that produced by commercial malting operations. However, existing laboratory-scale malting procedures often demand large quantities of grain, rely on specialized equipment, and are costly. To overcome these challenges, we developed a small sample-scale benchtop malting method utilizing standard laboratory equipment and components available at hardware stores. We validated the method by conducting standard malt quality tests including diastatic power, α-amylase activity, total malt protein, and wort composition (soluble protein, wort soluble/total malt protein, β-glucan, free amino nitrogen, and malt extract). Our findings indicate that the benchtop malting method yields quality metrics comparable to those obtained from established small-scale and full-scale malting protocols. Furthermore, a key innovation of this system is the use of separate Erlenmeyer flasks for malting each sample. Unlike conventional shared malting systems, this design enables precise measurement and comparison of treatment effects across samples malted simultaneously. This reliable, low-cost, and efficient method provides a valuable tool for screening malt quality traits in breeding lines with limited sample sizes and for testing malting regimes aimed at improving malt quality and efficiency. Additionally, it offers an accessible solution for producing high-quality, research-scale malt in laboratories without dedicated quality assurance facilities.
Burnout Syndrome and coping mechanisms among Prison Officers at Nsawam Medium Security Prison, Eastern Region, Ghana
Authors: Djoletoe Florence , Tabong Philip Teg-Nefaah
Published: January 2025

Workplace burnout negatively affects employees’ productivity, organizational effectiveness, social stability, and personal health and performance. Burnout is a syndrome comprising emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and loss of personal accomplishment. In Ghana, there are several studies on job-related burnout among health workers but very little on this syndrome in different professional groups like prison officers. Thus, this study assessed burnout syndrome, associated factors, and coping strategies among Prison Officers at Nsawam Medium Security Prison. This was a cross-sectional study involving 266 prison officers from the Nsawam Medium Security Prison. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from participants. Data was collected on sociodemographic characteristics, workplace environment, coping strategies, and burnout. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services scale was adopted for this study. The data was analysed using STATA 16. Descriptive Statistical methods were used to summarize socio-demographic characteristics of participants. Bivariable analysis using Pearson’s Chi Square was used to determine the association between demographic and work-related factors and burnout. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with burnout at 95% significance level. The prevalence of burnout was 9%. The main causes of burnout perceived by POs were irregular shifts (71.6%), heavy workload (49.0%) and lack of training and opportunities for development (47.7%). Male prison officers had 69% reduction in the odds of burnout compared to their female counterparts (AOR: 0.31; 95% CI= 0.13-0.75, p=0.009). Also, prison officers with diploma/certificate had 89% reduction in odds to burnout compared to those with postgraduate degrees (AOR: 0.11; 95% CI= 0.02-0.69, p=0.019). Talking to colleagues (62.5%), looking forward to off duty (60.1%), talking to family (54.3%), and keeping thoughts and feelings to oneself (42.1%) were the dominant coping strategies. Overall, the prevalence of burnout among prison officers in this study was low. Heavy workloads, erratic shift schedules, and a lack of training and career development chances contribute to prison officers’ burnout. Additionally, shift allocations need to be changed to lessen officer burnout.
Genetic Modifiers of Prenatal Brain Injury After Zika Virus Infection: A Scoping Review
Authors: Marques Fernanda J P , Ruan Janet , Razal Rozel B. , Leyser Marcio , Kousa Youssef A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The severity of virally induced prenatal brain injury, even among dizygotic twins, varies according to individual and maternal risk and protective factors, including genomics.

Objective

This scoping review aims to analyze data on genetic susceptibility to neurological outcomes in children exposed in utero to Zika virus.

Methods

We followed JBI methodology for this scoping review. A search in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, Academic Search Ultimate, Agricola, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection was conducted. Three reviewers independently screened studies using the Rayyan platform. Studies on gene mutations impacting brain injury after Zika virus infection were included.

Results

Thirteen articles identifying candidate genes related to brain injury were reviewed. Twenty-three genes were implicated in modulating susceptibility to prenatal brain injury, including six maternal and 17 infant genes.

Conclusion

Maternal and fetal genetic factors likely contribute susceptibility to virally induced prenatal brain injury. Analyzing polygenic risk could aid in future screening programs to identify individuals at risk. This information may eventually be integrated into clinical data, helping healthcare providers, families, and patients understand how to personalize care for better outcomes.

Impact

This paper evaluates available evidence about the relationship between genetic susceptibility and neurological consequences of Zika virus exposure during pregnancy.

After performing a scoping review, we identified 13 articles describing candidate genes that potentially contribute to the development of virally induced brain injury after prenatal Zika infection. Of the genes identified, six were associated with maternal risks, while 17 were linked to the fetus.

Maternal and prenatal genetic factors could increase the risk of virally induced prenatal brain injury.

Future research should investigate factors that can modify disease pathogenesis toward the goal of reducing the global impact of brain injury.
The Role of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Managing Cancer Therapy-Related Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Vignarajah Aravinthan , Kim San , Albliwi Moath , Ahn Hyunjun Max , Izda Aleksandar , Naffa Faris , Vigneswaramoorthy Nishanthi , Barot Shimoli , Shah Gautam
Published: January 2025

Background

Anti-cancer therapies currently available can lead to cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been shown to exhibit cardioprotective effects but its impact on CTRCD has not been evaluated.

Objectives

This study evaluates the impact of GLP-1 RAs on all-cause mortality, hospitalization, and heart failure exacerbation in patients with CTRCD.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort analysis using the TriNetX research network. Patients aged ≥18 years with a history of cancer who received antineoplastic therapies and subsequently developed cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) between January 1, 2012, and January 1, 2023, were included. Patients receiving guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) for heart failure were divided into two groups: those using GLP-1 RAs and those not using them. Propensity score matching (1:1) was applied based on demographics, comorbidities, and medications, resulting in a matched cohort of 1,223 patients. Outcomes over a 1-year follow-up were measured.

Results

The study cohort found 12,410 patients with CTRCD of which 1,223 had received GLP-1 RA treatment (mean age: 66.4 years; 47.3% female; 65.9% White). Patients receiving GLP-1 RAs in addition to GDMT had a significantly lower risk of acute heart failure exacerbations, all-cause mortality, and all-cause hospitalization (OR: 0.566 [95% CI: 0.48-0.668]; P < 0.001). A clinically significant reduction in atrial fibrillation/flutter and ventricular tachycardia was observed in the GLP-1 RA groups, although did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

In patients with CTRCD, adding GLP-1 RA therapy to GDMT significantly improves mortality and heart failure outcomes over 1 year.
Time from onset to aneurysm securing is associated with rebleeding in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Daurel Emile , Le Gall Arthur , Charamel-Lenain Claire , Ledos Alexandre , Eugène François , Launey Yoann
Published: January 2025

Rebleeding is a major complication in patients admitted for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The optimal timing for aneurysm securing after the initial headache remains debated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the previously established predictive factors for rebleeding in a contemporary retrospective cohort (2020-2022, Rennes University Hospital). Among the 226 patients included in the analysis, 33 (15%) experienced rebleeding. The mean time-to-event (rebleeding or securing) was significantly shorter in patients without rebleeding compared with patients with rebleeding (36 ± 3vs.63 ± 9 hours, respectively, p<0.001). For each additional hour of delay since the first symptoms, the odds of rebleeding increased by 0.7% (OR = 1.007 [1.001-1.013], p=0.026). This association remains significant in multivariate analysis. Despite its limitations, this study highlights the importance of early management, taking into account the time elapsed since the initial headache.
Enhanced CB1 receptor function in GABAergic neurons mediates hyperexcitability and impaired sensory-driven synchrony of cortical circuits in Fragile X Syndrome model mice
Authors: Gonzalez D , Jonak CR , Bernabucci M , Molinaro G , Collins K , Assad SA , Gibson JR , Binder DK , Huber KM
Published: January 2025

Electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings in individuals with Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and the mouse model of FXS (Fmr1KO) display cortical hyperexcitability at rest, as well as deficits in sensory-driven cortical network synchrony. A form of circuit hyperexcitability is observed inex vivocortical slices ofFmr1KO mice as prolonged persistent activity, or Up, states. It is unknown if the circuit mechanisms that cause prolonged Up states contribute to FXS-relevant EEG phenotypes. Here we examined the role of endocannabinoids (eCB) in prolonged Up states in slices and resting and sensory-driven EEG phenotypes in awakeFmr1KO mice. Bidirectional changes in eCB function are reported in theFmr1KO that depend on synapse type (excitatory or inhibitory). We demonstrate that pharmacological or genetic reduction of Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CB1R) in GABAergic neurons rescues prolonged cortical Up states and deficits in sensory-driven cortical synchrony inFmr1KO mice. In support of these findings, recordings fromFmr1KO cortical Layer (L) 2/3 pyramidal neurons revealed enhanced CB1R-mediated suppression of inhibitory synaptic currents. In contrast, genetic reduction ofCnr1in glutamatergic neurons did not affect Up state duration, but deletion ofFmr1in the same neurons was sufficient to cause long Up states. These findings support a model where loss ofFmr1in glutamatergic neurons leads to enhanced CB1R-mediated suppression of GABAergic synaptic transmission, prolonged cortical circuit activation and reduced sensory-driven circuit synchronization. Results suggest that antagonism of CB1Rs as a therapeutic strategy to correct sensory processing deficits in FXS.
Colorectal tumor-induced orexigenic imbalance lowers protein appetite and drives early organ wasting symptoms
Authors: Petsakou Afroditi , Filine Elizabeth , Li Matthew , Zheng Alice , Perrimon Norbert
Published: January 2025

Cancer cachexia (CC) is a deadly syndrome characterized by weight loss and wasting of muscle and adipose tissue1. Early symptoms include behavioral changes such as anorexia (loss of appetite) that precede weight loss and organ wasting2. Around ∼50-80% of patients with advanced cancer develop CC3, generating a pressing need to understand CC progression. Although recent advances have identified distinct metabolic, inflammatory, and neuronal networks associated with CC, the underlying mechanisms initiating early-stage CC remain unclear1. This outstanding question has proven difficult to answer in murine models due to the complexity and onset variability of CC. To address this, we utilized a fly colorectal-tumor model with a defined time-window for organ wasting4. We discovered that combined increase of conserved factors involved in inflammation (Upd3/Interleukin-6-like) and in reduced insulin signaling (ImpL2/Insulin Growth Factor Binding Protein) cause orexigenic dysfunction prior to organ wasting due to silencing of NPF (Neuropeptide F/ Neuropeptide Y) signaling in the brain. This initiates inadequate protein-specific nutritional choices and anorexia, promoting weight loss. Altogether, we provide evidence for an intricate mechanism that alters protein appetite and drives early organ wasting symptoms.
Targeting Osteosarcoma heterogeneity to improve therapeutic response
Authors: Melano Brenda , Dinh Truc , Zirak Bahar , Karimzadeh Mehran , Woo Brian J , Choi Benedict , Goodarzi Hani , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro
Published: January 2025

Intra tumor heterogeneity complicates cancer therapy by providing tumors with the ability to alter their phenotypes and become more therapy resistant. Here, we tested the hypothesis that identifying and modulating expression of key state-specific transcription factors could be used as a strategy for driving cells to a more therapy-sensitive state. Recent single-cell studies have explored the inter and intra tumoral heterogeneity of osteosarcoma and identified gene pathways enriched in specific cell states. For example, metastatic tumors are characterized by an expression of genes in the TNF-α, PI3K, TGFß and mTOR pathways. We identified similar profiles in osteosarcoma patient-derived xenograft-derived cell lines and potential transcription factor drivers of these states. We then used perturb-seq to downregulate expression of key transcription factors and evaluated the effect of these modulations on single cell RNA profiles and drug responses. Knockdown ofNFE2L3orNR0B1increased the proportion of cells sensitive to targeted therapy. This approach, which could potentially be applied to other cancers, could be used as a strategy to increase the response to targeted therapies by increasing the proportion of cells in a drug-sensitive state.

Highlights

Distinct transcriptomic states were identified in osteosarcoma cell lines using single-cell RNA sequencing.

Lineage tracing identified states with differential sensitivity to therapy.

Using perturb-seq, we identified transcription factors that drive cells towards a more sensitive state.

The transcription factors NR0B1 and NFE2L3 were identified as targets capable of reprogramming cells to a sensitive state.
Theift140-Deficient Zebrafish: A Model for Renal Cystogenesis and an F0-Based Screen to Identify Genetic Modifiers of Kidney Cysts
Authors: Zhu Ping , Lavin Andrew , Ding Yonghe , Xu Xiaolei , Lin Xueying
Published: January 2025

Genetic modifiers are believed to play an important role in the onset and severity of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), but identifying these modifiers has been challenging due to the lack of effective methodologies. In this study, we investigated zebrafish mutants ofIFT140, a newly identified ADPKD gene, and observed phenotypes similar to those seen in mammalian models, including kidney cysts and bone defects. Using efficient microhomology-mediated end joining (MMEJ)-based genome editing technology, we demonstrated thatift140CRISPRants recapitulate mutant phenotypes while bypassing the early lethality of the mutants to allow for renal cyst analysis in adult fish. In addition to cilia defects, non-cilia phenotypes, such as disrupted cell polarity and aberrant microtubule stabilization in kidney epithelial cells, may also contribute toift140-associated cystogenesis. Importantly, the ability to detectift140-associated renal cysts with ease allowed us to develop an F0-based genetic screen to identify potential protective modifiers. A pilot screen of sixteen genes previously linked to dysregulated signaling pathways in ADPKD revealed both known and novel modifiers, includingmtorandulk1a. Inhibition ofmtorandulk1areversed both cilia-related and non-cilia-related abnormalities. In summary, our study underscores the potential of using zebrafish as a model for the efficient discovery of genetic modifiers of kidney cysts.
Revealing the diversity of light-harvesting antenna of in vivo photosystem I
Authors: Zhang Xianjun , Taniguchi Rin , Ye Shen , Shibata Yutaka
Published: January 2025

The photosynthetic reaction is driven by the cooperation of two light-excited pigment-protein supercomplexes: photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI). The efficiency of the excitation of the two PSs relies on the exquisite organization of their light-harvesting antenna under environmental fluctuations. However, since the antenna-protein composition within cells remains elusive, the in vivo events arising from antenna variations cannot be accurately explored. Here, we implemented the single-pixel excitation-emission spectroscopy ofChlamydomonascells under 80 K using a cryogenic optical microscope. The antenna variations of in vivo PSI can be exclusively evaluated via this low-temperature spectro-imaging method. The simultaneous acquisition of two types of fluorescence spectra enables the analysis of the intracellular correlation between the PSII/PSI intensity ratio and the chlorophyll-b/a(Chl-b/a) concentration ratio. We found that the Chl-b/aratio hardly correlated with the PSII/PSI intensity ratio in most cases, suggesting that the in vivo PSI intensity ratio reflects the relative PSI stoichiometry rather than their antenna sizes. More importantly, the analysis of the PSI antenna-related Chl-bconcentration within cells reveals a mega-antenna system that is much larger than the antenna sizes of the PSI supercomplexes whose structures have been resolved so far. Such PSI megacomplexes tended to be enriched in the region surrounding the pyrenoids ofChlamydomonascells. We anticipate the present investigation to be a starting point for directly estimating the arrangements of antenna systems of photosystems at the single-cell scale, which is necessary for a deeper understanding of dynamic in vivo events related to the photosynthetic light-harvesting process.
Lactylation fuels nucleotide biosynthesis and facilitates deuterium metabolic imaging of tumor proliferation in H3K27M-mutant gliomas
Authors: Batsios Georgios , Taglang Céline , Udutha Suresh , Gillespie Anne Marie , Robinson Simon P , Phoenix Timothy , Mueller Sabine , Venneti Sriram , Koschmann Carl , Viswanath Pavithra
Published: January 2025

Oncogenes hyperactive lactate production, but the mechanisms by which lactate facilitates tumor growth are unclear. Here, we demonstrate that lactate is essential for nucleotide biosynthesis in pediatric diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs). The oncogenic histone H3K27M mutation upregulates phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) and drives lactate production from [U-13C]-glucose in DMGs. Lactate activates the nucleoside diphosphate kinase NME1 via lactylation and promotes the synthesis of nucleoside triphosphates essential for tumor proliferation. Importantly, we show that this mechanistic link between glycolysis and nucleotide biosynthesis provides a unique opportunity for deuterium metabolic imaging of DMGs. Spatially mapping2H-lactate production from [6,6-2H]-glucose allows visualization of the metabolically active tumor lesion and provides an early readout of response to standard-of-care radiation and targeted therapy that precedes extended survival and reflects pharmacodynamic alterations at the tissue level in preclinical DMG modelsin vivoat clinical field strength (3T). In essence, we have identified an H3K27M-lactate-NME1 axis that promotes DMG proliferation and facilitates non-invasive metabolic imaging of DMGs.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

This study establishes a role for lactate in driving nucleotide biosynthesis in DMGs. Importantly, imaging lactate production from glucose using DMI provides a readout of tumor proliferation and early response to therapy in clinically relevant DMG models. Our studies lay the foundation for precision metabolic imaging of DMG patients.
1,3- and 1,4-linked Polysaccharides Uptake in Intestinal Cells Relies on Clathrin/Dynamin 1/Rab5-dependent Endocytosis
Authors: Liao Wenfeng , Cao Dianxiu , Wang Ying , Du Zhenyun , Yao Jian , Dou Pengfei , Zheng Yuandong , Wang Zhiming , Chen Xia , Wang Peipei , Chen Hao , Diao Xingxing , Wang Kaiping , Ding Kan
Published: January 2025

Natural polysaccharides are considered to be a promising feedstock for manufacturing sustainable materials. However, polysaccharides are believed by most biologists that they could not be absorbed by intestinal mucosa to enter circulation system owing to their high hydrophilicity and large molecule size. Herein, β-1,3-linked glucan (GFPBW1) and α-1,4-linked glucan (WGE) is used as the model polysaccharide and the transport experiments show that different linked and charged polysaccharides can permeate Caco-2 cell monolayers. Thein vivoexperiments demonstrate that GFPBW1 and WGE are detectable in rodent plasma and liver after oral administration the isotope (99mTc,3H) and fluorescein labeled polysaccharides. Further study show that polysaccharide uptake requires clathrin heavy chain (CLTC) and its associated factors Rab5 and dynamin1 in intestinal cells using gene-knockdown strategies and inhibitors. Strikingly, polysaccharide absorption is attenuated in bothCLTCintestine deficient mice and Rab5, dynamin1 conventional-knockout mice. Importantly, membrane receptors bone morphogenetic protein receptor type IA (BMPRIA), Dectin-1 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are also critical for specific structural polysaccharide internalization. These findings provide novel insight to understand polysaccharide absorption mechanism and lay foundation for oral polysaccharide- based new drugs development.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of Hemerocallis citrina habitat suitability in China under climate change scenarios
Authors: Yang Liu , wu yi , Sheng Song , Peng Jiqing ji , Qiu Hanqing , Wen Yuancheng , Ma Zhongyuan , Li Jianjun jian , Wang Sen
Published: January 2025

Objective: Hemerocailis citrina, a perennial herb belonging to the Hemerocailis genus in the Apophaceae family, has been utilized as both food and medicine for thousands of years. Additionally, it is considered a traditional dominant cash crop in China. Therefore, analyzing the spatio-temporal distribution characteristics of climate sustability of H. citrina in current and future climatic conditions is crucial for its stable industry development in China. Method: ENMTools was used to screen the data of 287 distribution points of H. citrina. 37 environmental variables affecting the distribution of H. citrina were selected, the MaxEnt model and Geographic Information System (ArcGIS) were used to simulate the potential distribution patterns of H. citrina in 5 periods (current, future 2040 s, 2060 s, 2080 s, and 2100 s), and the dominant climate factors affecting the distribution of H. citrina were analyzed through contribution rate, displacement importance value, and jackknife test. Results: (1) The average AUC value of 10 cross-validated fits under the ROC curve for the training dataset was 0.933, and the average AUC value of 10 cross-validated fits for the test dataset was 0.901, this indicates that the simulation stability and reliability are highest when incorporating all three types of environmental variables. (2) The main environmental factors identified affecting their distribution include the lowest temperature of the coldest month, average temperature of the coldest quarter, slope, elevation, and carbonate or lime content, as determined by the contribution rate of cutting method, displacement contribution rate, and single factor response curve. (3) The model prediction showed that H. citrina was widely distributed in 34 provincial regions of China under the current climate conditions, with a suitable area of 646.81 km2. (4) Under the future emission scenarios, the suitable habitat for H. citrina is projected to shrink and not shift to higher latitudes, indicating a negative impact of climate warming on its distribution, which will reduce the suitable habitat and narrow the ecological niche. Temperature and precipitation have been identified as important factors affecting the distribution of H. citrina. Although H. citrina's suitable habitat is expected to decrease to varying degrees in the future, the distribution area is relatively stable and there will still be a broad natural habitat in the future. Conclusion: The species distribution model was used to predict the future temporal and spatial distribution of climate-suitable areas for H. citrina in China. Based on the model's simulation results, it is recommended that north and southeast China become the main planting areas for H. citrina in the future, with Sichuan and other regions as key development areas. Additionally, other regions should prioritize developing suitable cash crops based on local conditions.
Increased sensorimotor noise in Tourette syndrome
Authors: Gialopsou Aikaterini , Houlgreave Mairi , Jackson Stephen R.
Published: January 2025

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterised by the occurrence of vocal and motor tics1. The pathophysiology of TS has been linked to a substantial reduction in the number of inhibitory GABAergic interneurons found within the striatum2, leading to increased neural ‘noise’ within the cortical-striatal-thalamic-cortical [CSTC] circuit implicated in movement production3. In the current study, we used electroencephalography (EEG) to investigate increased neural noise in a group of 19 adults with TS compared to a matched neurotypical control group. We operationalised neural noise in this study as increased trial-by-trial variability in the magnitude and/or the timing of responses to a discrete somatosensory stimulation event. Specifically, we examined trial-by-trial variability in responses to a single pulse of median nerve electrical stimulation [MNS]. Our results demonstrate that the P100 somatosensory evoked potential (SEP), which has been associated with conscious perception of tactile stimuli11, was significantly increased in the TS group. Importantly, however, while the timing, temporal variability, and spatial topography of early- and mid-latency SEP components (e.g., N20, P45, N60, P100) did not differ in the TS group, when compared to matched controls, trial-by-trial variability was substantially increased in the TS group, but this was normalised in response to stimulation. These findings may indicate that the trial-by-trial recruitment of neuronal sensorimotor populations is less stable at rest in individuals with TS compared to controls but may normalise in response to stimulation.
Selective attention network in naturalistic auditory scenes is object and scene specific
Authors: Wikman Patrik , Muukkonen Ilkka , Kauramäki Jaakko , Laaksonen Ville , Varis Onnipekka , Petkov Christopher , Rauschecker Josef
Published: January 2025

Everyday auditory scenes often contain overlapping sound objects, requiring selective attention to isolate relevant objects from irrelevant background objects. This study examined how selective attention shapes neural representations of naturalistic sound scenes in the auditory cortex (AC). Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we recorded brain activity from participants (n = 20) as they attended to a designated object in scenes comprising three overlapping sounds. Scenes were constructed in two manners: one where each object belonged to a different category (speech, animal, instrument) and another where all objects were from the same category. Attending to speech consistently enhanced activations in lateral AC subfields, while attention to animal and instrument sounds preferentially modulated medial subfields, supporting models where attention modulates feature-selective neural gain in AC. Remarkably, however, spatial pattern analysis revealed that the attended object dominated the AC activation patterns of the entire scene in a manner depending on both object type and scene composition: When the objects of the scene belonged to different categories, attended objects dominated fields processing higher-level category-specific features. In contrast, when all scene objects shared the same category, dominance shifted to fields processing low-level acoustic features. Thus, attention seems to dynamically prioritize the features offering maximal contrast within a given context, emphasizing object-specific patterns in feature-similar scenes and category-level patterns in feature-diverse scenes. Our results support models where top-down signals not only modulate gain but also affect several steps of auditory scene decomposition and analysis – influencing stream segregation and gating of higher-level processing in a contextual manner, adapting to specific auditory environments.
GABABreceptor-mediated potentiation of ventral medial habenula glutamatergic transmission in GABAergic and glutamatergic interpeduncular nucleus neurons
Authors: Stinson Hannah E. , Ninan Ipe
Published: January 2025

The medial habenula (MHb)-interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) pathway plays an important role in information transferring between the forebrain and the midbrain. The MHb-IPN pathway has been implicated in the regulation of fear behavior and nicotine addiction. The synapses between the ventral MHb and the IPN show a unique property, i.e., an enhancement of synaptic transmission upon activation of GABABreceptors. This GABABreceptor-mediated potentiation of ventral MHb-IPN synaptic transmission has been implicated in regulating fear memory. Although IPN is known to contain parvalbumin (PV) and somatostatin (SST) GABAergic neurons and vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (VGLUT3)-expressing neurons, it is unknown how GABABreceptor activation affects ventral MHb-mediated glutamatergic transmission onto these three subtypes of IPN neurons. Our studies show robust glutamatergic connectivity from ventral MHb to PV and SST neurons in the IPN, while the ventral MHb-mediated glutamatergic transmission in IPN VGLUT3 neurons is weak. Although activation of GABABreceptors produces a robust potentiation of ventral MHb-mediated glutamatergic transmission in PV neurons, we observed a modest effect in IPN SST neurons. Despite the diminished basal synaptic transmission between ventral MHb and IPN VGLUT3 neurons, activation of GABABreceptors causes transient conversion of non-responding ventral MHb synapses into active synapses in some IPN VGLUT3 neurons. Thus, our results show strong ventral MHb connectivity to GABAergic IPN neurons compared to VGLUT3-expressing IPN neurons. Furthermore, GABABreceptor activation produces a differential effect on ventral MHb-mediated glutamatergic transmission onto PV, SST, and VGLUT3 neurons in the IPN.
Innovations in skin aging: biomimetic exosomesversusnatural exosomes
Authors: Salvaggio Antonio , Privitera Anna , Iannello Giulia , Brundo Maria Violetta
Published: January 2025

In this study, we compared the effectiveness of two commercial products contain biomimetic and natural exosomes on skin aging used two cells line, keratinocytes and fibroblasts. MTT assay and scratch-wound assay were employed to evaluate theirin vitroeffects. The treatment with product containing natural exosomes purified from bovine colostrum and loaded with growth factors and cytokines purified from bovine colostrum (AMPLEX PLUS technology), was able to significantly enhance cell proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes at 24 hours compared to cells treatment with product containing biomimetic exosomes and compared to untreated cells (control). Product containing natural exosomes was also able to close the wound scratch after 24 hours. The obtained results suggest that the product containing exosomes derived from bovine colostrum has excellent structural and functional stability offer great potential as natural product for skin aging damage and wound healing.
Modeling of GyrA, MexB, FtsI, AtpD Protein Variants In Multidrug ResistantAcinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Nik Mohd Nazri Nik Zakuan Hakim , Jusoh Siti Azma , Singh Kirnpal Kaur Banga , Ismail Mohamad Izwan
Published: January 2025

Acinetobacter baumanniiis a Gram-negative nosocomial pathogen known to manifest numerous drug resistances against major antibiotic classes. Compounded by its pathogenicity and virulence, it is considered globally as a top priority threat among the ESKAPE pathogens. The GyrA, MexB, FtsI and AtpD proteins inA. baumanniistrain PR07 have been proven to mutate under exposure to ciprofloxacin, meropenem, imipenem and erythromycin, respectively. While the genomic data is useful, the impact of the mutations on the protein structure and function is not well understood. To obtain a deeper understanding, the protein structures were analyzed using structural bioinformatics tools. Here, the PR07 GyrA, MexB, FtsI and AtpD protein sequence data from NCBI were compared between ESKAPE pathogens and otherA. baumanniispecies. MexB and AtpD structures were retrieved from the PDB database, while AlphaFold was used to construct protein structure predictions for GyrA and FtsI. MSA analyses identified mutations GyrA S81L, MexB S181L, FtsI P508, FtsI A515V, FtsI A579T and AtpD A166V mutations to be unique among the selected bacteria species. The mutation sites for all four target proteins were found to be within proximity to the potential binding sites. GyrA S81L, MexB S181L, FtsI A515V and FtsI A579T rigid protein models have shown loss of inter-residue polar hydrogen bonds, while AtpD A166V caused no observable changes. The mutations reported in PR07 therefore may potentially be significant contributors to its acquired resistance towards the target antibiotics.
Neutron stars and the cosmological constant problem
Authors: Ventagli Giulia , Fernandes Pedro G. S. , Maselli Andrea , Padilla Antonio , Sotiriou Thomas P.
Published: January 2025

Phase transitions can play an important role in the cosmological constant problem, allowing the underlying vacuum energy, and therefore the value of the cosmological constant, to change. Deep within the core of neutron stars, the local pressure may be sufficiently high to trigger the QCD phase transition, thus generating a shift in the value of the cosmological constant. The gravitational effects of such a transition should then be imprinted on the properties of the star. Working in the framework of general relativity, we provide a new model of the stellar interior, allowing for a QCD and a vacuum energy phase transition. We determine the impact of a vacuum energy jump on mass-radius relations, tidal deformability-radius relations, I-Love-Q relations, and on the combined tidal deformability measured in neutron star binaries.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
4-Chlorocurcumin
Authors: Pham Phuong-Truc T. , Bader Mamoun M.
Published: January 2025

The title compound [systematic name: 4-chloro-5-hydroxy-1,7-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)hepta-1,4,6-trien-3-one], C21H19ClO6, is close to planar, with a dihedral angle of 2.61 (7)° between the terminal phenyl groups and three intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bonds occur. In the crystal, the molecules are linked into [201] chains by O—H...O hydrogen bonds and weak aromatic π–π stacking is also observed with a shortest centroid–centroid separation of 3.7279 (8) Å.
Buildability-led procurement: a new model for future construction projects delivery
Authors: Osuizugbo Innocent Chigozie
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The construction projects tends to perform poorly. Non-integration of buildability into the project procurement process is one of the reasons for the observed poor performance. To address this issue and close the gap in the existing knowledge, this paper proposes buildability-led procurement (BLP), a new procurement method for future construction projects in view to enhance buildability of complex private and public projects delivery as well as improving both organisation and project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts qualitative research approach and uses an integrated literature review method to synthesise literature from diverse domain so as to propose a five-stage BLP plan for implementation in construction industry.

Findings

Based on the information gleaned from the literature review, a BLP model was conceptualised. Adoption of the BLP model would lead to significant improvement in project outcomes. The model’s main innovation lies in the possibility of providing an optimised design solution for the project at the design stage.

Originality/value

This study proposed an innovative procurement method with practical plan for implementation and the possibility for improved project performance in the construction industry. BLP model implementation may lead to reduced waste, rework and removal of obstacles experienced during the construction phase. The proposed model marks a new strategy in procurement which enables the delivery of best quality project within a reasonable and justifiable cost and time in complex private and public projects. Hence, it makes a valuable contribution towards the buildability enhancement of complex projects as well as organisation and project performance improvement.
Delays to distributed ledgers: examining the rationale for leveraging blockchain technology in construction sector
Authors: Shah Mushtaq Ahmad , Ganesh Udaya Bhaskara
Published: January 2025

Purpose

India’s construction sector faces substantial challenges with project delays and cost overruns. According to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, an astounding 431 out of 1,820 projects reported cost overruns, whereas 848 projects experienced delays in 2023. These delays and overruns often push costs 30%–40% beyond initial estimates. Blockchain technology (BCT) offers a promising solution by enhancing transparency, streamlining processes through automation and optimising supply chains in the construction industry. This study aims to explore the adoption landscape of BCT within the construction sector, the drivers behind its acceptance and future directions for its implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed-methods’ research design that combines both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques to investigate the current use of blockchain, the perceived rationale and the future direction of blockchain in construction. A survey of construction professionals with substantial blockchain experience was conducted. In addition, an exhaustive literature review and content analysis were conducted using reputable electronic databases such as Scopus, Web of Science and IEEE Xplore, reinforcing the study’s empirical foundation. The survey data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics to determine relative importance items using MS-Excel and SPSS.

Findings

Despite regulatory challenges, blockchain adoption is on the rise, with 90% of respondents expressing strong interest. Stakeholders see improved transparency and accountability as key drivers for adoption, emphasising blockchain’s capacity to support veracity and trust in construction projects. Notable benefits include enhanced communication, cost reduction, supply chain management and precise execution and monitoring. Overcoming regulatory constraints and bridging knowledge gaps will be essential to fully realising blockchain’s benefits for all players in the construction industry.

Originality/value

The study’s findings provide valuable insights for construction professionals, researchers and policymakers interested in adopting BCT. By clarifying the transformative potential of blockchain within the construction sector, this research study emphasises the imperatives of further study, innovation and collaborative endeavours aimed at addressing construction industry challenges and facilitating digital integration.
Wicked problems and value co-destruction in service ecosystems: navigating the tension between public and private value
Authors: Naveed Shabana , Farooqi Madiha Rehman , Salman Yaamina
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the phenomenon of service value co-destruction within public service ecosystems (PSEs), focusing on the causes of value co-destruction and the inherent tension between public and private value creation/destruction.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data was collected through 36 semi-structured interviews with diverse stakeholders within the ecosystem of electricity services in Pakistan, including electricity suppliers, users and connected agencies involved in electricity generation, transmission, regulation, monitoring and coordination tasks.

Findings

The study identified various causes of service value co-destruction in PSEs, involving multiple actors responsible for value co-destruction. The research revealed the co-existence and intersection of public and private values within PSEs, highlighting the complex dynamics between value creation and destruction resulting in value imbalance and value erosion.

Research limitations/implications

Value co-destruction is a plausible outcome of dynamic interactions among various stakeholders in public service delivery, and it can have significant consequences on service quality and public value. Multiple stakeholders, in the governance network, can actively contribute to the co-destruction of service value.

Practical implications

Practitioners should consider the broader ecosystem where not only service providers but also service users and other connected actors, such as public, private and nonprofit organizations, collectively contribute to either co-creating or co-destroying service value.

Originality/value

Grounded in PSL perspective, the findings deepen our understanding of the complexities surrounding public service delivery in PSEs. It provides a fresh perspective on how various actors collectively shape the value of these services.
When invisible eyes undermine proactive efforts: the effect of electronic performance monitoring on job crafting
Authors: Liu Wenxing , Zhou Kong , Ouyang Xi , Chen Siyuan , Gao Kai
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In recent years, organizations have progressively adopted electronic performance monitoring (EPM) to obtain accurate employee performance data and improve management efficiency in response to the growing complexity of the work environment. However, existing research has primarily focused on examining the effect of EPM on employee behaviors within established job designs, neglecting the consequential role of EPM in shaping employees’ bottom-up job redesign (i.e. job crafting). This study aims to explore whether and how EPM affects employee job crafting.

Design/methodology/approach

To test proposed hypotheses, we conducted two time-lagged surveys across different cultural contexts and a scenario experiment on an online platform in China.

Findings

The results revealed the negative indirect relationship between EPM and employee job crafting via role breadth self-efficacy. This indirect relationship was moderated by constructive supervisor feedback and job complexity, with the above relationships being weak (versus strong) when constructive supervisor feedback was high (versus low) or job complexity was low (versus high).

Practical implications

The results have crucial implications for organizational practices, suggesting that managers should provide constructive feedback to break the trade-off between EPM and job crafting. Additionally, managers may need to give employees with high job complexity more autonomy rather than intense monitoring.

Originality/value

This study is the first to clarify the effect of EPM on employee job crafting. As job crafting captures the important value of employees in organizational job design, our effort helps to enrich the understanding of EPM effectiveness.
Competition–risk nexus of Taiwanese banks: from a stability–inefficiency perspective
Authors: Liao Chang-Sheng , Zhao ManJie
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the competition–risk nexus for Taiwan’s banking industry from the stability–inefficiency perspective over the period 2002–2021.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the effect of competition on bank risk from the perspective of stability inefficiency. Following Koetter et al. (2012), we measured bank competition levels by adjusting the Efficiency Lerner index.

Findings

This finding supports the competition–stability hypothesis for the banking sector, which states that intensified competition reduces banks’ insolvency and credit risk, making the banking sector sounder. However, banks enjoy a “quiet life” environment and face less competition but still obtain high profits despite inefficiency.

Originality/value

This study considers the moderating effects of multiple factors and finds that bank size, the revenue growth rate and new business income moderate the relationship between risk and competition. In addition, compared with the Z-score, this study investigates the competition–risk relationship through stability inefficiency, which was evaluated using the stochastic frontier approach, offering more robust results than previous studies.