bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The flow of reward information through neuronal ensembles in the accumbens
Authors: Arroyo Benjamin , Hernandez-Lemus Enrique , Gutierrez Ranier
Published: February 2024

Reward information flows through neuronal ensembles in the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcSh), influencing decision-making. We investigated this phenomenon by training rats in a self-guided probabilistic choice task while recording single-unit activity in the NAcSh. We found that rats dynamically adapted their choices based on an internal representation of reward likelihood. Neuronal ensembles in the NAcSh act as dynamic modules to process different aspects of reward-guided behavior. Ensembles dynamically change composition and functional connections throughout reinforcement learning. The NAcSh forms a highly connected network with a heavy-tailed distribution and neuronal hubs, facilitating efficient reward information flow. Reward delivery evokes higher mutual information between ensembles and unifies network activity, while omission leads to less synchronization. Our recordings shed light on how reward information propagates through dynamically changing ensembles of neurons in the NAcSh. These functional ensembles exhibit flexible membership, dropping in and out and even shrinking in number as the rat learns to obtain (energy) rewards in an ever-changing environment.

Graphical Abstract
The 15-min (Sub)Cellular Proteome
Authors: Shen Bowen , Pade Leena R. , Nemes Peter
Published: February 2024

Single-cell mass spectrometry (MS) opens a proteomic window onto the inner workings of cells. Here, we report the discovery characterization of the subcellular proteome of single, identified embryonic cells in record speed and molecular coverage. We integrated subcellular capillary microsampling, fast capillary electrophoresis (CE), high-efficiency nano-flow electrospray ionization, and orbitrap tandem MS. In proof-of-principle tests, we found shorter separation times to hinder proteome detection using DDA, but not DIA. Within a 15-min effective separation window, CE data-independent acquisition (DIA) was able to identify 1,161 proteins from single HeLa-cell-equivalent (∼200 pg) proteome digests vs. 401 proteins by the reference data-dependent acquisition (DDA) on the same platform. The approach measured 1,242 proteins from subcellular niches in an identified cell in the liveXenopus laevis(frog) embryo, including many canonical components of organelles. CE-MS with DIA enables fast, sensitive, and deep profiling of the (sub)cellular proteome, expanding the bioanalytical toolbox of cell biology.

Authorship Contributions

P.N. and B.S. designed the study. L.R.P. collected theX. laeviscell aspirates. B.S. prepared and measured the samples. B.S. and P.N. analyzed the data and interpreted the results. P.N. and B.S. wrote the manuscript. All the authors commented on the manuscript.
Long-term adaptation of prefrontal circuits in a mouse model of NMDAR hypofunction
Authors: Ponserre Marion , Ionescu Tudor M , Franz Alessa A , Deiana Serena , Schuelert Niklas , Lamla Thorsten , Williams Rhîannan H , Wotjak Carsten T , Hobson Scott , Dine Julien , Omrani Azar
Published: February 2024

Pharmacological approaches to induce N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction have been intensively used to understand the aetiology and pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Yet, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms that relate to brain network dysfunction remain largely unknown. Here, we used a set of complementary approaches to assess the functional network abnormalities present in mice that underwent a 7-day subchronic phencyclidine (PCP 10mg/kg, subcutaneously, once daily) treatment. Our data revealed that pharmacological intervention with PCP affected cognitive performance and auditory evoked gamma oscillations in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) mimicking endophenotypes of some schizophrenia patients. We further assessed PFC cellular function and identified altered neuronal intrinsic membrane properties, reduced parvalbumin (PV) immunostaining and diminished inhibition onto L5 PFC pyramidal cells. A decrease in the strength of optogenetically-evoked glutamatergic current at the ventral hippocampus (HPC) to PFC synapse was also demonstrated, along with a weaker shunt of excitatory transmission by local PFC interneurons. On a macrocircuit level, functional ultrasound measurements indicated compromised functional connectivity within several brain regions particularly involving PFC and frontostriatal circuits. Herein, we reproduced a panel of schizophrenia endophenotypes induced by subchronic PCP application in mice. We further recapitulated electrophysiological signatures associated with schizophrenia and provided an anatomical reference to critical elements in the brain circuitry. Together, our findings contribute to a better understanding of the physiological underpinnings of deficits induced by subchronic NMDAR antagonist regimes and provide a test system for characterization of pharmacological compounds.

Highlights

Subchronic PCP treatment alters cognitive performance and evoked gamma synchronization in the prefrontal cortex.

Subchronic PCP reduces number of parvalbumin-positive boutons and inhibitory synaptic transmission onto pyramidal neurons in layer 5/6 of the prelimbic cortex.

Subchronic PCP reduces the strength of ventral hippocampal inputs to the medial prefrontal cortex.

Frontostriatal circuits show robust dysconnectivity after subchronic PCP treatment. Abstract
Cortical population coding critically depends on fine-tuning of cell physiology
Authors: Revah Omer , Wolf Fred , Gutnick Michael J. , Neef Andreas
Published: February 2024

Cortical function reflects the activities of populations of neurons. How accurately they can encode information depends on the speed with which each neuron can respond to input, as revealed by dynamic gain analysis. Theory predicts that the determinants of a population’s dynamic gain - cell number, cell size and the correlation time of the background noise - control the speed with which the population can respond to input. Because the constituents of a neuronal population change from moment to moment, experimental confirmation of these predictions has not been feasible. Here, we study a stable, defined neuronal population with known input and connectivity: spiny stellate cells in layer 4 of rodent barrel cortex. We confirm predictions as to the impacts of cell size and input correlation time and we demonstrate that these disparate factors are precisely matched with the number of neurons in layer 4, such that even a single thalamocortical spike at the input is reliably reflected in the population output. We further show that the speed with which the spike-generation machinery can respond is modulated by the channels that mediate M-current, suggesting that coding in layer 4 may vary as a function of brain state.

One-Sentence Summary

In layer 4 of the somatosensory cortex, the neuronal population is able to perform its precise temporal function because it is tuned by a set of disparate parameters.
Ion-channel degeneracy and heterogeneities in the emergence of signature physiological characteristics of dentate gyrus granule cells
Authors: Kumari Sanjna , Narayanan Rishikesh
Published: February 2024

Complex systems are neither fully determined nor completely random. Biological complex systems, including single neurons, manifest intermediate regimes of randomness that recruit integration of specific combinations of functionally segregated subsystems. Such emergence of biological function provides the substrate for the expression of degeneracy, the ability of disparate combinations of subsystems to yield similar function. Here, we present evidence for the expression of degeneracy in morphologically realistic models of dentate gyrus granule cells (GC) through functional integration of disparate ion-channel combinations. We performed a 45-parameter randomized search spanning 16 active and passive ion channels, each biophysically constrained by their gating kinetics and localization profiles, to search for valid GC models. Valid models were those that satisfied 17 sub- and supra-threshold cellular-scale electrophysiological measurements from rat GCs. A vast majority (>99%) of the 15,000 random models were not electrophysiologically valid, demonstrating that arbitrarily random ion-channel combinations wouldn’t yield GC functions. The 141 valid models (0.94% of 15,000) manifested heterogeneities in and cross-dependencies across local and propagating electrophysiological measurements, which matched with their respective biological counterparts. Importantly, these valid models were widespread throughout the parametric space and manifested weak cross-dependencies across different parameters. These observations together showed that GC physiology could neither be obtained by entirely random ion-channel combinations nor is there an entirely determined single parametric combination that satisfied all constraints. The complexity, the heterogeneities in measurement and parametric spaces, and degeneracy associated with GC physiology should be rigorously accounted for, while assessing GCs and their robustness under physiological and pathological conditions.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Morphing Cholinesterase Inhibitor Amiridine into Multipotent Drugs for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Mezeiova Eva , Prchal Lukas , Hrabinova Martina , Muckova Lubica , Pulkrabkova Lenka , Soukup Ondrej , Misiachna Anna , Janousek Jiri , Fibigar Jakub , Kucera Tomas , Horak Martin , Makhaeva Galina F. , Korabecny Jan
Published: February 2024

The search for novel drugs to address the medical needs of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an ongoing process relying on the discovery of disease-modifying agents. Given the complexity of the disease, such an aim can be pursued by developing so-called multi-target directed ligands (MTDLs) that will impact the disease pathophysiology more comprehensively. Herewith, we contemplated the therapeutic efficacy of an amiridine drug acting as a cholinesterase inhibitor by converting it into a novel class of novel MTDLs. Applying the linking approach, we have paired amiridine as a core building block with memantine/adamantylamine, trolox, and substituted benzothiazole moieties to generate novel MTDLs endowed with additional properties like N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor affinity, antioxidant capacity, and anti-amyloid properties, respectively. The top-ranked amiridine-based compound 5d was also inspected by in silico to reveal the butyrylcholinesterase binding differences with its close structural analogue 5b. Our study provides insight into the discovery of novel amiridine-based drugs by broadening their target-engaged profile from cholinesterase inhibitors towards MTDLs with potential implications in AD therapy.
TLR9 activation in large wound induces tissue repair and hair follicle regeneration via γδT cells
Authors: Li Xinhui , Yang Yang , Yi Zumu , Xu Zhaoyu , Chen Shuaidong , An Tiantian , Zhou Feng , Deng Chen , Man Yi , Hu Chen
Published: February 2024

The mechanisms underlying tissue repair in response to damage have been one of main subjects of investigation. In this study, we leveraged the wound-induced hair neogenesis (WIHN) models in adult mice to explore the inner correlation. Our investigation revealed that heightened release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) accompanying tissue damage activated the toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) pathway, influencing the repair process and the ultimate number of regenerated hair follicles. Furthermore, our analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing comparisons demonstrated increased TLR9 activation was associated with the recruitment of gamma delta T cells (γδT). Inhibition of γδT cell recruitment led to a reduction in the population of γδT cells and a more fibrotic healing outcome. Notably, these γδT cells exhibited distinctive high production of AREG, contributing to the rapid increase of local AREG levels around the epidermis and influencing the fate commitment of keratinocytes. These findings provide new insights into the roles of TLRs as critical mediators in the sense of tissue damage, the modulation of immune cell activity, and the ultimate influence on healing outcomes.

Teaser

Starting with how tissue injury stimulates downstream tissue repair and regeneration through relevant signals, this study explored the phenomenon and correlation between tissue damage and TLR9, and the effect of TLR9 on γδT, keratinocytes and the healing outcomes.
Licensing and competition of stem cells at the niche combine to regulate tissue maintenance
Authors: García-Tejera Rodrigo , Amoyel Marc , Grima Ramon , Schumacher Linus
Published: February 2024

To maintain and regenerate adult tissues after injury, the numbers, proliferation, and differentiation rates of tissue-resident stem cells must be precisely regulated. The regulatory strategies preventing exhaustion or overgrowth of the stem cell pool, whether there is coordination between different mechanisms, and how to detect them from snapshots of the cell populations, remains un-resolved. Recent findings in the Drosophila testes show that prior to differentiation, somatic stem cells transition to a state that licenses them to differentiate upon receiving a commitment signal, but remain capable of fully regaining stem cell function. Here, we build stochastic mathematical models for the somatic stem cell population to investigate how licensing contributes to homeostasis and the variability of stem cell numbers. We find that licensing alone is sufficient regulation to maintain a stable homeostatic state and prevent stem cell extinction. Comparison with previous experimental data argues for the likely presence of regulation through competition for niche access. We show that competition for niche access contributes to the reduction of the variability of stem cell numbers but does not prevent extinction. Our results suggest that a combination of both regulation strategies, licensing and competition for niche access, is needed to reduce variability and prevent extinction simultaneously.
Pleotropic effects of a recessive COL1α2mutation occurring in a mouse model of severe osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Corcelli Michelangelo , Sagar Rachel , Petzendorfer Ellen , Hasan Mohammad Mehedi , de Vries Hilda I , van Dijk Fleur S , David Anna L , Guillot Pascale V
Published: February 2024

Approximately 85-90% of individuals with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) have dominant pathogenic variants in theCOL1A1 or COL1A2genes. This leads to decreased or abnormal Collagen type I production. Subsequently, bone formation is strongly reduced, causing bone fragility and liability to fractures throughout life. OI is clinically classified in 5 types with the severity ranging from mild to lethal depending on the gene and the type and location of the OI-causative variant and the subsequent effect on (pro) collagen type I synthesis. However, the specific effects on the phenotype and function of osteoblasts are not fully understood.

To investigate this, the OI murine model was used, with theoim/oim(OIM) mice closest resembling severely deforming OI type 3 in humans. We showed that in OIM, COL1 mutation results in a multifactorial inhibition of the osteogenic differentiation and maturation as well as inhibition of osteoclastogenesis. The phenotype of differentiated OIM osteoblasts also differs from that of wild type mature osteoblasts, with upregulated oxidative cell stress and autophagy pathways, possibly in response to the intracellular accumulation of type I collagen mRNA. The extracellular accumulation of defective type I collagen fibres contributes to activation of the TGF-β signalling pathway and activates the inflammatory pathway. These effects combine to destabilise the balance of bone turnover, increasing bone fragility. Together, these findings identify the complex mechanisms underlying OI bone fragility in the OIM model of severe OI and can potentially enable identification of clinically relevant endpoints to assess the efficacy of innovative pro-osteogenic treatment for patients with OI.
Structural and biochemical analysis of a B12 super-binder
Authors: Martinez-Felices Jose M , Whittaker Jacob J , Slotboom Dirk , Guskov Albert
Published: February 2024

The gut microbiota is pivotal to human health, playing an important role in nutrient absorption and immune system. A prominent bacterial family in the human gut is Bacteroidetes. Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is an essential micronutrient for these gut bacteria. Here, we focused on the BtuG family proteins in B. thetaiotaomicron, a model organism for this family, particularly the three homologs BtuG1, BtuG2, and BtuG3, which serve as cobalamin scavengers. Our study aimed to understand the structural and biochemical attributes of these proteins to describe their function in cobalamin acquisition. We solved the crystal structures of all three BtuG homologs bound to different cobalamin forms and the precursor cobinamide, and measured the binding kinetics by the grained coupled interferometry (GCI) technology. Our results reveal high binding affinities, in the low picomolar range underlining their critical role in cobalamin scavenging. Leveraging the high-resolution crystal structures, we successfully designed mutants of these BtuG homologs, resulting in both increased and decreased binding affinities for cobalamin and its precursor. This study furthers our understanding of bacterial adaptation mechanisms in the gut environment, and reveals a family of proteins with unique characteristics toward B12 scavenging, with implications for medical and biotechnological research.
Division of labour underlies efficient colony defence in a clonal ant
Authors: Li Zimai , Wang Qi , Knebel Daniel , Veit Daniel , Ulrich Yuko
Published: February 2024

The ecological success of social insects is often credited to the division of labour (DOL), yet empirical evidence directly linking DOL to colony efficiency is rare, in part because variation in DOL between colonies is often confounded by variation in colony traits (e.g., group size, genetic diversity) that can independently affect group efficiency. Here, we measure the link between DOL and efficiency in a crucial task, colony defence, in a social insect that affords precise experimental control over relevant individual and colony traits, the clonal raider ant (Ooceraea biroi). We find that DOL in defence behaviour emerges within colonies of near-identical workers, and is consistently associated with enhanced defence efficiency. This positive relationship is robust to variation in the social environment (group size and the presence and type of brood), indicating that the extent of behavioural variation between members of a social group can serve as a key indicator of group efficiency.
Back-pocket optimization of 2-aminopyrimidine-based macrocycles leads to potent dual EPHA2/GAK kinase inhibitors with antiviral activity
Authors: Gerninghaus Joshua , Zhubi Rezart , Kraemer Andreas , Karim Marwah , Tran Do Hoang Nhu , Joerger Andreas C , Schreiber Christian , Berger Lena M. , Berger Benedict Tilman , Ehret Theresa A.L. , Elson Lewis , Lenz Christopher , Saxena Krishna , Mueller Susanne , Einav Shirit , Knapp Stefan , Hanke Thomas
Published: February 2024

Macrocyclization of acyclic compounds is a powerful strategy for improving inhibitor potency and selectivity. Here, we developed a 2-aminopyrimidine-based macrocyclic dual EPHA2/GAK kinase inhibitor as a chemical tool to study the role of these two kinases in viral entry and assembly. Starting with a promiscuous macrocyclic inhibitor, 6, we performed a structure-guided activity relationship and selectivity study using a panel of over 100 kinases. The crystal structure of EPHA2 in complex with the developed macrocycle 23 provided a basis for further optimization by specifically targeting the back pocket, resulting in compound 55 as a potent dual EPHA2/GAK inhibitor. Subsequent front-pocket derivatization resulted in an interesting in cellulo selectivity profile, favoring EPHA4 over the other ephrin receptor kinase family members. The dual EPHA2/GAK inhibitor 55 prevented dengue virus infection of Huh7 liver cells, mainly via its EPHA2 activity, and is therefore a promising candidate for further optimization of its activity against dengue virus.
Adsorption superlattice stabilized by elastic interactions in a soft porous crystal
Authors: Mitsumoto Kota , Takae Kyohei
Published: February 2024

Elasticity is essential for organizing mesoscale patterns in condensed matter. Here, we numerically show that adsorbed molecules in soft porous crystals form a superlattice (SL) stabilized by elastic interactions. In a mechanically flexible honeycomb lattice model, a long-range ordered 1/3-filling SL state emerges during adsorption. The SL state is robust against thermal fluctuation when the elastic interactions between the next-nearest-neighboring lattice sites are strong. Our results provide a way to switch the functionalities of materials by controlling the distribution of adsorbed molecules.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Predicting Thermochemical Equilibria with Interacting Defects:
Sr1−xCexMnO3−δ
Alloys for Water Splitting
Authors: Goyal Anuj , Sanders Michael D. , O’Hayre Ryan P. , Lany Stephan
Published: February 2024

Solar thermochemical hydrogen is one of the few potential routes towards direct fuel production from renewable energy sources, but the thermodynamic boundary conditions for efficient and economic energy conversion are challenging. Success or failure of a given oxide working material depends on the subtle balance between enthalpy and entropy contributions in the redox processes. Developing a mechanistic understanding of the behavior of materials on the basis of atomistic models and first-principles calculations is an important part of advancing the technology. One challenge is to quantitatively predict thermochemical equilibria at high concentrations when the redox-active defects start to interact with each other, thereby impeding the formation of additional defects. This problem is of more general importance to applications that rely on high levels of off-stoichiometry or doping, including, for example, batteries, thermoelectrics, and ceramic fuel cells. To account for such repulsive defect interactions, we introduce a statistical mechanics approach, defining an expression for the free energy of defect interaction based on limited sampling of defect configurations in density functional theory supercell calculations. The parameterization of this energy contribution as a function of defect concentration and temperature allows on-the-fly simulation of thermochemical equilibria. The approach consistently incorporates finite temperature effects by including the leading contributions to the temperature-dependent free energy for the case at hand, i.e., the ideal gas and configurational enthalpies and entropies. We demonstrate the capability and utility of the approach by simulating the water splitting redox processes for Sr1−xCexMnO3−δ alloys.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The crystal structure of mycothiol disulfide reductase (Mtr) provides mechanistic insight into the specific low-molecular-weight thiol reductase activity of Actinobacteria
Authors: Gutiérrez-Fernández Javier , Hersleth Hans-Petter , Hammerstad Marta
Published: February 2024

Low-molecular-weight (LMW) thiols are involved in many processes in all organisms, playing a protective role against reactive species, heavy metals, toxins and antibiotics. Actinobacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, use the LMW thiol mycothiol (MSH) to buffer the intracellular redox environment. The NADPH-dependent FAD-containing oxidoreductase mycothiol disulfide reductase (Mtr) is known to reduce oxidized mycothiol disulfide (MSSM) to MSH, which is crucial to maintain the cellular redox balance. In this work, the first crystal structures of Mtr are presented, expanding the structural knowledge and understanding of LMW thiol reductases. The structural analyses and docking calculations provide insight into the nature of Mtrs, with regard to the binding and reduction of the MSSM substrate, in the context of related oxidoreductases. The putative binding site for MSSM suggests a similar binding to that described for the homologous glutathione reductase and its respective substrate glutathione disulfide, but with distinct structural differences shaped to fit the bulkier MSSM substrate, assigning Mtrs as uniquely functioning reductases. As MSH has been acknowledged as an attractive antitubercular target, the structural findings presented in this work may contribute towards future antituberculosis drug development.
Bolstering circular economy in construction through digitalisation
Authors: Eze Emmanuel Chidiebere , Sofolahan Onyinye , Ugulu Rex Asibuodu , Ameyaw Ernest Effah
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the potential benefits of digital technologies (DTs) in bolstering the circular economy (CE) transition in the construction industry, to speed up the attainment of sustainable development objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

A detailed literature review was undertaken to identify DTs that could influence CE transition and the benefits of these DTs in the CE transitioning efforts of the construction industry. Based on these, a survey questionnaire was formulated and administered to construction professionals using convenient sampling techniques. With a response rate of 49.42% and data reliability of over 0.800, the gathered data were analysed using frequency and percentage, mean item score, normalisation value, coefficient of variation, Kendall’s coefficient of concordance, analysis of variance and factor analysis.

Findings

This study found that the construction experts agreed that building information modelling, blockchain technology, RFID, drone technology and cloud computing are the leading DTs that have the potential to influence and speed up CE transition in construction. Also, six clusters of benefits of DTs in bolstering EC are quicken CE transition, proactive waste management, recycling and zero waste, data management and decision-making, enhance productivity and performance and resource optimisation.

Originality/value

Studies on the integration of DTs in CE transition are scarce and it is even lacking in the Nigerian context. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to assess the role of DTs in CE transitioning in the Nigerian construction industry.
Intellectual capital efficiency: the missing piece to your corporate governance and profitability puzzle
Authors: Ijaz Misal , Zarrar Abeera , Naz Farah
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the synergy of corporate governance (CG) with intellectual capital (IC) and to assess the moderating effect of profitability indicator on the aforementioned synergy using agency theory, resource-based view theory and theory of financial ratios as conceptual frameworks.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes 72 companies with a six-year data set drawn from the KSE 100 Index companies of Pakistan. In addition, the study adopts Pulic’s model to compute the efficiency of IC. The research uses fixed-effect panel regression for analysis and two-stage least squares regression (2SLS) to address endogeneity issues in the estimation process.

Findings

The results showcased that chief executive officer duality possesses negligible impact on IC efficiency (ICE), while independent directors, audit committees and board size tend to attain a strong association with IC. Moreover, it postulates that the moderation of return on equity strengthens the path between all governance components and ICE significantly.

Originality/value

The research uses a 2SLS regression analysis to explore how CG practices take hold on the effectiveness of IC in Pakistan while taking into account the moderating impact of profitability. The findings add to the body of knowledge on the value that strong governance practices have on businesses and society.
Self-determination theory and customer revenge behavior: explaining how customers regulate their anger and revenge behavior
Authors: Shahrasbi Nasser , Rohani Mina , Purmehdi Mostafa , Rajabzadeh Ghatari Ali
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore and empirically examine an integrative model of the customer revenge process by linking two well-established theories of self-determination theory (SDT) and appraisal theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 901 respondents, followed by a post-hoc survey of 712 individuals, was conducted to examine the autonomous versus controlled orientations for revenge motivation.

Findings

The results show that customers’ orientation of motivation (OM) can regulate their revenge behavior (direct versus indirect) in case of service failures. Specifically, the interaction of OM components (i.e. autonomy, relatedness and competence) can play a significant role in the relationship between revenge predictors and revenge behavior. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

Originality/value

This paper offers a novel conceptual framework to explain the moderating effects of OM on the relationship between revenge predictors and revenge behavior. This study extends the application of SDT to the context of customer anger and revenge.
Free banking theory: literature review and relevance to the regulation of cryptocurrencies debate
Authors: Norton Simon D.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Free banking theory, as developed in Adam Smith’s 1776 treatise, “The Wealth of Nations” is a useful tool in determining the extent to which the “invisible hand of the market” should prevail in regulatory policy. The purpose of this study is to provide a timely review of the literature, evaluating the theory’s relevance to regulation of financial technology generally and cryptocurrencies (cryptos) specifically.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is qualitative, applying free banking theory as developed in the literature to technology-defined environments. Recent legislative developments in the regulation of cryptocurrencies in the UK, European Union and the USA, are drawn upon.

Findings

Participants in volatile cryptocurrency markets should bear the consequences of inadvisable investments in accordance with free banking theory. The decentralised nature of cryptocurrencies and the exchanges on which these are traded militate against coordinated oversight by central banks, supporting a qualified free banking approach. Differences regarding statutory definitions of cryptos as units of exchange, tokens or investment securities and the propensity of these to transition between categories across the business cycle render attempts at concerted classification at the international level problematic. Prevention of criminality through extension of Suspicious Activity Reporting to exchanges and intermediaries should be the principal objective of policymakers, rather than definitions of evolving products that risk stifling technological innovation.

Originality/value

The study proposes that instead of a traditional regulatory approach to cryptos, which emphasises holders’ safety and compensation, a free banking approach combined with a focus on criminality would be a more effective and pragmatic way forward.
Electricity energy-saving behavior of households in Jordan: a qualitative study
Authors: Alwedyan Safaa
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Given the rapid increase in energy consumption in the residential sector in Jordan recently, the question of how to promote energy-saving behavior in Jordanian households is an emerging topic that is receiving increasing attention from scholars and academics. Generally, there is an unresolved paradox in the literature concerning electricity-saving behaviors. On one hand, numerous studies highlight energy-saving behaviors. On the other hand, recent research indicates the presence of significant untapped potential in electricity-saving behaviors. Therefore, it is useful to revisit the construct of these behaviors qualitatively to expand understanding. The study aimed to provide a better understanding of electricity energy-saving behaviors in terms of its motivations, barriers and support mechanisms from household heads' or household members' perspectives

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative study in a sample of households in north Jordan was conducted in the Irbid province using grounded theory methodology. The analysis of qualitative data involved coding, followed by the integration of codes into more comprehensive categories and themes and interpreting the findings.

Findings

The results identify the motivations for households to save energy, the main barriers to indulging in electricity energy-saving behaviors, and the main support mechanisms and perceived support of electricity energy-saving behaviors

Practical implications

The findings bear significant implications for targeted interventions in the study area, improving motivations and addressing local barriers and can inform future policy issues by tailoring initiatives to the specific context.

Originality/value

This study is distinguished by being the first study that specializes in electricity energy-saving behavior of households in Jordan, using new methodology and techniques (qualitative survey).
The impact of species phylogenetic relatedness on invasion varies distinctly along resource versus non‐resource environmental gradients
Authors: Wang Guoyan , Zhang Xiaojuan , Yannelli Florencia , Li Jing‐Ji , Shi Songlin , Zhang Tingbin , Bie Xiaojuan , Chen Xu , Peng Pei‐Hao , Jiang Lin
Published: February 2024

Understanding why some, but not other, plant communities are vulnerable to alien invasive species is essential for predicting and managing biological invasions. Darwin proposed two seemingly contradictory hypotheses on how native‐invader relatedness influences invasion success, emphasizing, respectively, the importance of environmental filtering and competition between natives and invaders. Despite much recent empirical research on this topic, reconciling these two hypotheses, known as Darwin's naturalization conundrum, remains a challenge.

Using plot‐level data from natural forests along elevational transects covering strong environmental gradients, we examined whether the invasion of the globally invasive species crofton weed (Ageratina adenophora) can be explained by environmental filtering and/or competition from closely related species linked to environmental gradients.

Abundant precipitation, warm temperatures, open canopies and postfire environments facilitatedA. adenophorainvasion, whereas resident taxonomic richness suppressed its invasion. Importantly, we found that invader‐resident relatedness had a strong negative effect on invader cover under resource scarcity conditions (e.g. low water availability), but not under non‐resource environmental stress gradients (e.g. low temperature).

Synthesis and applications.Our results suggest that the impact of species phylogenetic relatedness on invasion success varies distinctly along resource versus non‐resource environmental gradients. These results help to reconcile Darwin's naturalization conundrum, thereby improving the ability to predict the success of alien plant invasions in a changing world. Our study stresses the need to consider adjusting forest species composition to strengthen their resistance to invasion, while taking into account resource and non‐resource environmental gradients, particularly after wildfires.
Casein‐based conjugates and graft copolymers. Synthesis, properties, and applications
Authors: Viora Laurianne , Tichané Teddy , Nottelet Benjamin , Mouton Julia , Garric Xavier , Van Den Berghe Hélène , Coudane Jean
Published: February 2024

Biobased natural polymers, including polymers of natural origin such as casein, are growing rapidly in the light of the environmental pollution caused by many mass‐produced commercial synthetic polymers. Although casein has interesting intrinsic properties, especially for the food industry, numerous chemical reactions have been carried out to broaden the range of its properties, most of them preserving casein's nontoxicity and biodegradability. New conjugates and graft copolymers have been developed especially by Maillard reaction of the amine functions of the casein backbone with the aldehyde functions of sugars, polysaccharides, or other molecules. Carried out with dialdehydes, these reactions lead to the cross‐linking of casein giving three‐dimensional polymers. Acylation and polymerization of various monomers initiated by amine functions are also described. Other reactions, far less numerous, involve alcohol and carboxylic acid functions in casein. This review provides an overview of casein‐based conjugates and graft copolymers, their properties, and potential applications.
A simple and effective method to enrich endogenous DNA from mammalian faeces
Authors: Cui Liang Yu , Liu Bo Yang , Li Hai Meng , Zhu Yi Xin , Zhou Yong Heng , Su Chang , Tian Yin Ping , Xu Hai Tao , Liu Dan , Li Xiao Ping , Ma Yue , Jiang Guang Shun , Liu Huan , Yang Shu Hui , Lan Tian Ming , Xu Yan Chun
Published: February 2024

Utilization of faeces has long been a popular approach for genetic and ecological studies of wildlife. However, the success of molecular marker genotyping and genome resequencing is often unpredictable due to insufficient enrichment of endogenous DNA in the total faecal DNA that is dominated by bacterial DNA. Here, we report a simple and cheap method named PEERS to predominantly lyse animal cells over bacteria by using sodium dodecyl sulphate so as to discharge endogenous DNA into liquid phase before bacterial DNA. By brief centrifugation, total DNA with enriched endogenous fraction can be extracted from the supernatant using routine methods. Our assessments showed that the endogenous DNA extracted by PEERS was significantly enriched for various types of faeces from different species, preservation time and conditions. It significantly improves the genotyping correctness and efficiency of genome resequencing with the total additional cost of $ 0.1 and a short incubation step to treat a faecal sample. We also provide methods to assess the enrichment efficiency of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA and models to predict the usability of faecal DNA for genotyping of short tandem repeat, single‐nucleotide polymorphism and whole‐genome resequencing.
Internal and external morphological analysis of fused‐rooted mandibular second molars in the Chinese population: A micro‐computed tomographic study
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Meng Yajun , Tsauo Chialing , Chen Min , Huang Dingming , Zhou Xuedong , Zou Ling , Gao Yuan
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the root canal morphology of fused‐rooted mandibular second molars based on the pulp chamber floor (PCF) and analysed the correlation between the external morphology of the radicular groove, and the internal morphology of the PCF and root canal configuration. A total of 291 fused‐rooted teeth collected from the Chinese population were scanned using micro‐computed tomography and a dental operating microscope was used for observing the PCFs. The classification of the PCF and root canal configuration were identified according to modified Min et al.'s and Gao et al.'s classifications, respectively. Additionally, a new radicular groove classification was proposed. The correlation among these morphological characteristics was investigated using the chi‐square test and Fisher's exact test (p < 0.05). The results showed that 74.2% of teeth had C‐shaped PCFs, while 21.0% had non‐C‐shaped PCFs. As for the root canal configurations, 37.5% of teeth were merging type, 40.9% were symmetrical type, and 14.8% were asymmetrical type. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between the PCF types and the root canal configurations (p < 0.001). The dominant root canal types for teeth with C‐shaped PCFs were merging and symmetrical types, while the asymmetrical type was not identified in non‐C‐shaped PCFs. In addition, significant morphological association between the root canals and radicular grooves was also revealed (p < 0.001). Teeth with different PCF morphologies exhibit specific patterns of root canal category distribution. Understanding the morphological nuances of the root canal based on the PCF can assist clinicians in predicting and identifying the canal configuration beneath the visible orifice.
Genetically predicted retinal vascular occlusion in relation to cardiovascular diseases: A bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Zhang Jun , Pan Yiji , Yang Hongxia , Hu Shuqiong , Zheng Sheng , He Tao
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Increasing evidence implicates retinal vascular occlusions as a susceptibility factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), whereas inconsistent results on the relationship were reported in previous observational studies. This research using a bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis aimed to investigate the potential association between genetically determined central/branch retinal artery and retinal vein occlusions (CRAO/BRAO/RVO) and the risk of CVD.

Methods

Summary statistics of retinal vascular occlusions from the largest available genome‐wide association study of European descent were used to investigate their relationship with CVDs, and vice versa. Primary analyses were conducted using the common inverse‐variance weighted approach. Several complementary sensitivity analyses were performed to verify the reliability of our results.

Results

Inverse variance weighted method showed suggestive effects of genetically determined RVO on ischemic stroke (IS) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.021, 95% confidence [CI] = 1.004–1.037, p = 0.012), a genetic liability to CRAO increased the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) (OR = 1.014, 95% CI = 1.006–1.023, p = 7.0 × 10−4). In addition, genetic predisposition to BRAO had a positive effect on stroke (OR = 1.008, 95% CI = 1.002–1.013, p = 0.011), IS (OR = 1.007, 95% CI = 1.001–1.014, p = 0.022), and cardioembolic stroke (CES) (OR = 1.018, 95% CI = 1.006–1.031, p = 0.004). The point estimates from sensitivity analyses were in the same direction. Reverse MR analyses found no significant evidence for the effect of CVDs on retinal vascular occlusions.

Conclusion

Our MR study provides potential evidence that retinal vascular occlusions are causally linked to increased risk of CVDs including IS, MI, stroke, and CES. This supports the need for clinical CVD screening in individuals with retinal vascular occlusions. Further investigations are warranted to clarify the effects of CVDs on ocular comorbidities.
Upper limit of normal ALT levels in health and metabolic diseases: Pooled analysis of 423,355 individuals with bootstrap modelling
Authors: Tan Eunice X. , Huang Daniel Q. , Yee Natasha Tang Sook , Wan Zi Hui , Nerurkar Sanjna N. , Kai Justin Chua Ying , Goh Kang Shiong , Ng Cheng Han , Muthiah Mark , Zhou Yu , Woodward Amanda , Le Michael H. , Yeo Yee Hui , Barnett Scott , Cheung Ramsey , Nguyen Mindie H.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Given the global rise in obesity‐related metabolic diseases, the upper limit of normal (ULN) alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in individuals with and without metabolic diseases may have changed. We performed a meta‐analysis combined with bootstrap modelling to estimate the ALT ULN levels for individuals with and without metabolic diseases.

Methods and Results

Two separate searches of the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were performed, one to identify healthy individuals which yielded 12 articles (349,367 individuals); another to include those with potential metabolic diseases but without known liver disease which yielded 35 articles (232,388 individuals). We estimated the mean ALT using a random‐effects mixed model and the ULN level (95th‐percentile value) via a bootstrap model with 10,000 resamples. In individuals without metabolic diseases and known liver disease, the ALT ULN levels were 32 U/L overall; 36 U/L in males and 28 U/L in females. In analyses that included individuals with metabolic diseases, the ALT ULN levels were 40 U/L among the overweight/obese (29 U/L if normal weight) and 36 U/L among those with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (33 U/L if no T2DM). On meta‐regression of study‐level factors, body mass index (coefficient 1.49, 95% CI 0.11–2.86, p = 0.03), high‐density lipoprotein (coefficient −0.47, 95% CI −0.85‐(−0.08), p = 0.02) and triglycerides (coefficient 0.19, 95% CI 0.12–0.25, p < 0.0001) correlated with ALT.

Conclusion

We provide expected ranges of ALT ULN levels for individuals without known liver disease without metabolic diseases and those with or without T2DM and/or are normal weight or overweight/obese. These data may have implications for clinical care and screening.
The effects of maternal calcium status during late gestation on lamb growth and survival in twin‐bearing Merino ewes grazing pasture
Authors: Munn AL , Swinbourne AMF , Brougham B‐J , van Wettere WHEJ , Weaver AC
Published: February 2024

Our project aimed to investigate whether low maternal calcium status during late gestation decreased weight, growth and survival of lambs born to twin‐bearing Merino ewes grazing pasture. On day 130 of gestation, approximately a 10 mL blood sample was collected from 108 twin‐bearing Merino ewes. Blood pH and calcium ion concentration were measured in whole blood and serum was analysed for calcium, magnesium, phosphate, beta hydroxy butyrate, non‐esterified fatty acids and cholesterol. Six to 18 h after birth and at 49 days of age, lamb live weight was recorded. Ewe serum calcium level at day 130 of gestation were divided into tertiles (1.58–2.13, 2.14–2.30, and 2.31–2.99 mmol/L) with ewes classified as either Low, Med or High (n = 36 per group). A general linear mixed model was used to analyse the data. Survival to 1, 2, 3 and 7 days of age was lower for lambs born to ewes in the Low calcium group compared with those born in the Med and High calcium groups (P < 0.05). At day 49 of age, lamb survival tended to be lower for lambs in the Low (73.6%) compared with Med (86.8%) and High (85.3%) calcium groups (P < 0.1). There were no differences in lamb body weight (P > 0.05). Calcium levels of ewes in the Low calcium group were, on average, indicative of subclinical hypocalcaemia, with this group of ewes also having the lowest lamb survival rate, suggesting that maternal subclinical hypocalcaemia reduces lamb survival. Further studies, particularly on improving maternal calcium levels, are warranted.
From “business as usual” to sustainable “purpose‐driven business”: Challenges facing the purpose ecosystem in the United Kingdom and Australia
Authors: Lyon Fergus , Stubbs Wendy , Dahlmann Frederik , Edwards Melissa
Published: February 2024

Purpose‐driven businesses have a stated objective to contribute to the welfare of society and the planet alongside generating shareholder value. As interest in purpose‐driven businesses grows, an emerging “purpose ecosystem” of advisers, investors, and enablers offers different types of support for businesses wanting to transition to sustainability. This paper examines how the transition towards purpose‐driven business in Australia and the United Kingdom requires addressing challenges facing this support ecosystem at three levels. First, at the individual level where support providers need to build the capabilities of managers who are experiencing tensions around integrating societal and environmental purpose while facing pressure for maximizing shareholder value. Second, the support providers working within the purpose ecosystem offering professional advice and finance face their own tensions between environmental or social objectives and commercial pressures. Third, there are challenges facing actors in the ecosystems aiming to change the wider policy and institutional environment but facing lobbying from those wanting to keep “business as usual.” We identify practical implications for those parts of the purpose‐driven business ecosystem providing support. This includes building capabilities to combine social, environmental, and commercial purpose; coordination among support providers; and creating an institutional environment to avoid “purpose wash.”