bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping Visual Contrast Sensitivity and Vision Loss Across the Visual Field with Model-Based fMRI
Authors: Chow-Wing-Bom Hugo T. , Lisi Matteo , Benson Noah C. , Lygo-Frett Freya , Yu-Wai-Man Patrick , Dick Frederic , Maimon-Mor Roni O. , Dekker Tessa M.
Published: October 2024

Peripheral vision is crucial for daily activities and quality of life, yet traditional measures of visual function like visual acuity primarily assess central vision. Visual field tests can evaluate peripheral vision but require extended focus combined with precise fixation, often very challenging for patients with severe sight loss. Functional MRI (fMRI) with population receptive field (pRF) mapping offers a non-invasive way to map scotomas but is limited by its reliance on single contrast levels and the necessity of accurate fixation.

We developed an fMRI-based approach to measure contrast sensitivity across the visual field without the need for precise fixation. By combining large-field stimulation with varying spatial frequencies and contrast levels with either pRF mapping or a retinotopic atlas based on anatomical landmarks, we modeled contrast sensitivity in the primary visual cortex (V1) over a large (40 deg) expanse of the visual field. In seven normal-sighted participants, we characterized differences in V1 cortical sensitivity across eccentricities and visual quadrants, finding reliable and reproducible patterns of sensitivity differences at individual and session levels. Additionally, our method effectively visualized cases of simulated and disease-linked sensitivity loss at the cortical level. Crucially, we demonstrated that these results could be largely recovered using a structure-based retinotopic atlas, eliminating the need for pRF mapping and precise fixation - although such an approach reduced sensitivity.

This approach, integrating large-field stimulation with a retinotopic atlas, offers a promising tool for monitoring vision loss and recovery in patients with various visual impairments, addressing a significant challenge in current clinical assessments.
Medium-dose irradiation impairs long-term hematopoietic stem cell functionality and hematopoietic recovery to cytotoxic stress
Authors: Zhang Qinyu , Rydström Anna , Hidalgo Isabel , Cammenga Jörg , Nilsson Alexandra Rundberg
Published: October 2024

Irradiation and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are widely utilized tools in hematopoietic research to generate myeloablation and assess blood recovery dynamics. A comprehensive understanding of their effects on the hematopoietic system is essential for optimizing therapeutic strategies, refining experimental models to modulate hematotoxicity, and interpreting research outcomes. Despite their widespread application, the long-term hematopoietic impacts of irradiation and 5-FU, particularly on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), remain incompletely characterized. In this study, we therefore examined the long-term effects of 2 Gy medium-dose ionizing radiation (MDIR) and 150 mg/kg 5-FU on HSCs and the hematopoietic system’s resilience to subsequent cytotoxic stress in mice. Our findings demonstrate that MDIR, but not 5-FU, induces sustained impairments in HSC function and results in the selective depletion of MHC class II−HSCs – a subset characterized by high self-renewal potential. Furthermore, MDIR significantly compromised hematopoietic recovery following a subsequent 5-FU challenge, as evidenced by notably reduced platelet and red blood cell (RBC) counts during the critical recovery phase. These findings highlight the distinct and persistent impacts of MDIR and 5-FU on HSCs and hematopoietic function, revealing crucial differences in their mechanisms of action and long-term consequences on the hematopoietic system.
Slit regulates compartment-specific targeting of dendrites and axons in theDrosophilabrain
Authors: Deng Xiaobing , Sandoval Isaac Cervantes , Zhu Sijun
Published: October 2024

Proper functioning of the nervous system requires precise neuronal connections at subcellular domains, which can be achieved by projection of axons or dendrites to subcellular domains of target neurons. Here we studied subcellular-specific targeting of dendrites and axons in theDrosophilamushroom body (MB), where mushroom body output neurons (MBONs) and local dopaminergic neurons (DAN) project their dendrites and axons, respectively, to specific compartments of MB axons. Through genetic ablation, we demonstrate that compartment-specific targeting of MBON dendrites and DAN axons involves mutual repulsion of MBON dendrites and/or DAN axons between neighboring compartments. We further show that Slit expressed in subset of DANs mediates such repulsion by acting through different Robo receptors in different neurons. Loss of Slit-mediated repulsion leads to projection of MBON dendrites and DAN axons into neighboring compartments, resulting formation of ectopic synaptic contacts between MBONs and DANs and changes in olfactory-associative learning. Together, our findings suggest that Slit-mediated repulsion controls compartment-specific targeting of MBON dendrites and DAN axons, which ensures precise connections between MBON dendrites and DAN axons and proper learning and memory formation.
Structure elucidation, biosynthetic gene cluster distribution, and biological activities of ketomemicin analogs inSalinispora
Authors: Castro-Falcón Gabriel , Guillén-Matus Dulce G. , Da Silva Elany Barbosa , Guo Wentao , Ross Alicia , Magalhães Serafim Mateus Sá , Maciel Fernandes Thais Helena , Tantillo Dean J. , O’Donoghue Anthony J. , Jensen Paul R.
Published: October 2024

We report three new ketomemicin pseudopeptides (1–3) from extracts of the marine actinomyceteSalinispora pacificastrain CNY-498. Their constitution and relative configuration were elucidated using NMR, mass spectrometry, and quantum chemical calculations. Using GNPS molecular networking and publicly availableSalinisporaLCMS datasets, five additional ketomemicin analogs (4–8) were identified with ketomemicin production detected broadly acrossSalinisporaspecies. The ketomemicin biosynthetic gene cluster (ktm) is highly conserved inSalinispora, occurring in 79 of 118 public genome sequences including eight of the nine named species. OutsideSalinispora, ktmhomologs were detected in various genera of the phylum Actinomycetota that might encode novel ketomemicin analogs. Ketomemicins1–3were tested against a panel of eleven proteases, with2displaying moderate inhibitory activity. This study describes the first report of ketomemicin production bySalinisporacultures, the distribution of the corresponding biosynthetic gene cluster, and the protease inhibitory activity of new ketomemicin derivatives.

Table of Content/Graphical Abstract
BT-11 repurposing potential for Alzheimer’s disease and insights into its mode of actions
Authors: Birnbaum Emily M. , Xie Lei , Serrano Peter , Rockwell Patricia , Figueiredo-Pereira Maria E.
Published: October 2024

Neuroinflammation is a key pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Investigational and FDA approved drugs targeting inflammation already exist, thus drug repurposing for AD is a suitable approach. BT-11 is an investigational drug that reduces inflammation in the gut and improves cognitive function. BT-11 is orally active and binds to lanthionine synthetase C-like 2 (LANCL2), a glutathione-s-transferase, thus potentially reducing oxidative stress. We investigated the effects of BT-11 long-term treatment on the TgF344-AD rat model. BT-11 reduced hippocampal-dependent spatial memory deficits, Aβ plaque load and neuronal loss in males, and mitigated microglia numbers in females. BT-11 treatment led to hippocampal transcriptomic changes in signaling receptor, including G-protein coupled receptor pathways. We detected LANCL2 in hippocampal nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions with potential different post-translational modifications, suggesting distinct functions based on its subcellular localization. LANCL2 was present in oligodendrocytes, showing a role in oligodendrocyte function. To our knowledge, these last two findings have not been reported. Overall, our data suggest that targeting LANCL2 with BT-11 improves cognition and reduces AD-like pathology by potentially modulating G-protein signaling and oligodendrocyte function. Our studies contribute to the field of novel immunomodulatory AD therapeutics, and merit further research on the role of LANCL2 in this disease.
A systematic identification of resistance determinants to antisense antibiotics suggests adaptation strategies dependent on the delivery peptide
Authors: Mulkern Adam J. , Vu Thu-Hien , Popella Linda , Kerrinnes Tobias , Ðurica-Mitić Svetlana , Barquist Lars , Vogel Jörg , Galardini Marco
Published: October 2024

The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among human pathogenic microbes is a serious threat to global health, calling for the development of novel treatment strategies. Antibiotics based on programmable antisense oligomers (asobiotics) offer an attractive solution to the “arms-race”, as their specificity can be quickly updated and tailored to target resistant bacteria. In order to understand the genetic architecture of resistance to asobiotics, we employed laboratory evolution assays to identify mutations that decrease susceptibility to antisense peptide nucleic acid (PNA) against four major gram-negative pathogens:Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella enterica, andPseudomonas aeruginosa. We observed that the reduction in susceptibility upon asobiotics treatment was dependent on the specific cell penetrating peptide (CPP) being conjugated to the PNAs, suggesting that reduced uptake is a common adaptation strategy only against the (KFF)3-K CPP. We in fact observed thatsbmAwas frequently mutated in all tested species when treated with (KFF)3-K conjugated PNAs. We further identified mutations related to translation, peptide transport and cell envelope, which provide new hypotheses on cellular response to CPP-PNAs conjugates. Furthermore, for (RXR)4XB-acpPwe observed a modest increase in resistance only when mutations in the PNA binding site were induced, which could easily be bypassed by changing the PNA sequence. These findings indicate that the specific identity of the CPP used plays a key role in determining its robustness against the evolution of resistance, and that laboratory evolution can illuminate the remaining gaps in our knowledge on the mechanisms of action of asobiotics.
Pattern-based genome mining guides discovery of the antibiotic indanopyrrole A from a marine streptomycete
Authors: Sweeney Douglas , Bogdanov Alexander , Chase Alexander B. , Castro-Falcón Gabriel , Trinidad-Javier Alma , Dahesh Samira , Nizet Victor , Jensen Paul R.
Published: October 2024

Terrestrial actinomycetes in the genusStreptomyceshave long been recognized as prolific producers of small molecule natural products, including many clinically important antibiotics and cytotoxic agents. AlthoughStreptomycescan also be isolated from marine environments, their potential for natural product biosynthesis remains underexplored. The MAR4 clade of largely marine-derivedStreptomyceshas been a rich source of novel halogenated natural products of diverse structural classes. To further explore the biosynthetic potential of this group, we applied pattern-based genome mining leading to the discovery of the first halogenated pyrroloketoindane natural products, indanopyrrole A (1) and B (2), and the bioinformatic linkage of these compounds to an orphan biosynthetic gene cluster (BCG) in 20 MAR4 genomes. Indanopyrrole A displays potent broad-spectrum antibiotic activity against clinically relevant pathogens. A comparison of the putative indanopyrrole BGC with that of the related compound indanomycin provides new insights into the terminal cyclization and offloading mechanisms in pyrroloketoindane biosynthesis. Broader searches of public databases reveal the rarity of this BGC while also highlighting opportunities for discovering additional compounds in this uncommon class.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Replication Kinetics, Pathogenicity and Virus-induced Cellular Responses of Cattle-origin Influenza A(H5N1) Isolates from Texas, United States
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed , Barre Ramya S. , Allué-Guardia Anna , Escobedo Ruby A. , Shivanna Vinay , Rothan Hussin , Castro Esteban M. , Ma Yao , Cupic Anastasija , Jackson Nathaniel , Bayoumi Mahmoud , Torrelles Jordi B , Ye Chengjin , García-Sastre Adolfo , Martinez-Sobrido Luis
Published: October 2024

The host range of HPAIV H5N1 was recently expanded to include ruminants, particularly dairy cattle in the United States. Shortly after, human H5N1 infection was reported in a dairy worker in Texas following exposure to infected cattle. Herein, we rescued the cattle-origin influenza A/bovine/Texas/24-029328-02/2024(H5N1, rHPbTX) and A/Texas/37/2024(H5N1, rHPhTX) viruses, identified in dairy cattle and human, respectively, and their low pathogenic forms, rLPbTX and rLPhTX, with monobasic HA cleavage sites. Intriguingly, rHPhTX replicated more efficiently than rHPbTX in mammalian and avian cells. Still, variations in the PA and NA proteins didn’t affect their antiviral susceptibility to PA and NA inhibitors. Compared to rHPbTX and rLPbTX, the rHPhTX and rLPhTX exhibited higher pathogenicity and efficient replication in infected C57BL/6J mice. The lungs of rHPhTX-infected mice produced higher inflammatory cytokines/chemokines than rHPbTX-infected mice. Our results highlight potential risk of HPAIV H5N1 virus adaptation in human and/or dairy cattle during the current multistate/multispecies outbreak.
The CYK-4 GAP domain regulates cortical targeting of centralspindlin to promote contractile ring assembly and facilitate ring dissolution
Authors: Schlientz Aleesa J , Lee Kian-Yong , Gómez-Cavazos J. Sebastián , Lara-González Pablo , Desai Arshad , Oegema Karen
Published: October 2024

During cytokinesis, an equatorial contractile ring partitions the cell contents. Contractile ring assembly requires an equatorial zone of active GTP-bound RhoA generated by the guanine nucleotide exchange factor ECT21,2. ECT2 is activated by centralspindlin, a complex composed of two molecules each of kinesin-6 and CYK4. During anaphase, Centralspindlin is activated at the central spindle between the separating chromosomes and diffuses to the plasma membrane, where it engages with ECT2 via its N-terminal half3,4. The C-terminal half of CYK4 contains a lipid-binding C1 domain that contributes to plasma membrane targeting5and a GTPase-activating protein (GAP) domain that has an interaction surface for a Rho family GTPase, whose functions have remained unclear1,3,4,6,7. Here, using the one-cell stageC. elegansembryo as a model, we show that RhoA and the Rho-binding interface of the CYK4 GAP domain drive the recruitment of centralspindlin to the equatorial cortex. By contrast, a point mutant that selectively disrupts GAP activity does not prevent cortical centralspindlin recruitment but instead substantially delays dissipation of centralspindlin from the cortex. These findings suggest that positive feedback, in which centralspindlin recruitment promotes the generation of active RhoA and active RhoA drives centralspindlin recruitment, is central to the rapid assembly of the contractile ring within a narrow time window. They also indicate that the CYK4 GAP catalytic activity contributes to release of centralspindlin from the cortex, potentially to ensure timely dissolution of the contractile ring.
Transcriptional profiling of the cortico-accumbal pathway reveals sex-specific alterations underlying stress susceptibility
Authors: Pessoni AM , Blanc-Arabe L , Pancotti L , Mansouri S , D’Angelo M , Huot K , Marroquin Rivera A , Peralta M , Zhao C , Leboulleux Q , Lévesque M , Proulx CD , Labonté B
Published: October 2024

Anxiety and depressive disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), affect millions of people every year, imposing significant socio-economic burdens. In this scenario, current treatments for MDD show limited efficacy, highlighting the need to better understand its molecular mechanisms. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been identified as a critical brain region in MDD pathology, displaying altered activity and morphology. This study targets the mPFC-to-nucleus accumbens (NAc) pathway, which is implicated in the regulation of emotional behavior. We used a pathway-specific approach to uncover transcriptional profiles in mPFC neurons projecting to the NAc in stressed male and female mice. Using the RiboTag technique and RNA sequencing, we identified sex-specific gene expression changes, revealing potential roles in stress susceptibility. Differential expression and weighted gene co-expression network analyses revealed distinct transcriptional responses to chronic stress in males and females. Key findings include the identification of the X-linked lymphocyte-regulated 4B (Xlr4b) gene, within a highly relevant gene module, as a stress susceptibility driver in males. By experimentally overexpressing theXlr4bgene, we characterized its crucial role in regulating neuronal firing and influencing arborization patterns to promote anxiety-like behavior in a sex-specific fashion. These findings suggest that chronic stress induces unique and shared transcriptional alterations in mPFC neurons projecting to the NAc. Some of these alterations change the morphological and functional properties of neuronal pathways ultimately contributing to the differential manifestation of anxiety-like and depressive-like behaviors in male and female mice.
Alternate routes to acetate tolerance lead to varied isoprenol production from mixed carbon sources inPseudomonas putida
Authors: de Siqueira Guilherme M. V. , Srinivasan Aparajitha , Chen Yan , Gin Jennifer W. , Petzold Christopher J. , Lee Taek Soon , Guazzaroni María-Eugenia , Eng Thomas , Mukhopadhyay Aindrila
Published: October 2024

Lignocellulose is a renewable resource for the production of a diverse array of platform chemicals, including the biofuel isoprenol. While this carbon stream provides a rich source of sugars, other organic compounds, such as acetate, can be used by microbial hosts. Here we examined growth and isoprenol production in aPseudomonas putidastrain pre-tolerized (“PT”) background where its native isoprenol catabolism pathway is deleted, using glucose and acetate as carbon source. We found that PT displays impaired growth in minimal medium containing acetate, and often fails to grow in glucose-acetate medium. Using a mutant recovery-based approach, we generated tolerized strains that overcame these limitations, achieving fast growth and isoprenol production in the mixed carbon feed. Changes in the glucose and acetate assimilation routes, including an upregulation in PP_0154 (SpcC, succinyl-CoA:acetate CoA-transferase) and differential expression of the gluconate assimilation pathways, were key for higher isoprenol titers in the tolerized strains, while a different set of mechanisms were likely enabling tolerance phenotypes in media containing acetate. Among these, a coproporphyrinogen-III oxidase (HemN) was upregulated across all tolerized strains, and in one isolate required for acetate tolerance. Utilizing a defined glucose and acetate mixture ratio reflective of lignocellulosic feedstocks for isoprenol production inP. putidaallowed us to obtain insights into the dynamics and challenges unique to dual carbon source utilization that are obscured when studied separately. Together, this enabled development of aP. putidabioconversion chassis able to use a more complex carbon stream to produce isoprenol.

Importance

Acetate is a relatively abundant component of many lignocellulosic carbon streams and has the potential of being used together with sugars, especially in microbes with versatile catabolism such asP. putida. However, the use of mixed carbon streams necessitates additional optimization. Further, the use ofP. putidafor the production of the biofuel target, isoprenol, requires the use of engineered strains that have additional growth and production constraints when cultivated in acetate and glucose mixtures. In this study we generate acetate tolerantP. putidastrains that overcome these challenges and examine their ability to produce isoprenol. We show that acetate tolerance and isoprenol production, though independent phenotypes can both be optimized in a givenP. putidastrain. Using proteomics and whole genome sequencing we examine the molecular basis of both phenotypes and show that tolerance to acetate can occur via alternate routes and result in different impacts on isoprenol production.
A survey of the mentor-mentee relationship in early career research (ECR): Implications for publishing and career advancement in the STEMM disciplines
Authors: Lordan Ronan , Wride Michael , O’Sullivan Íde
Published: October 2024

Early career researchers (ECRs) are the most abundant workforce in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM). ECRs are generally mentored by experienced principal investigators (PIs) who direct the research objectives. The ECR mentee- mentor partnership can be mutually beneficial, but it is a critical relationship for ECRs with implications for publishing and career development. In this study, a mixed methods approach involving a survey, X polls (formally Twitter), and semi-structured interviews were used to determine how the ECR mentor-mentee relationship affects ECRs and their perceptions of career development in STEMM. To address this aim, two main research questions were developed: (1) Who do the STEMM ECR mentees and mentors currently perceive to be ECRs? and (2) What characteristics of the ECR mentee-mentor relationship are perceived to be important for ECR publishing practices and career progression? The main survey findings indicate that respondents largely from the life sciences and health field and they consider Ph.D. researchers and postdoctoral researchers as ECRs, but mentors also to a greater extent than mentees perceive new PIs (< 2 years experiences) as ECRs. Survey respondents also mostly agree on publishing practices regarding journal selection criteria such as journal scope and impact factor, although mentees appear to favor journal prestige and open access publishing more than mentors. This is likely due to the importance of visibility early in one’s career. Mentees take the lead in preparing manuscripts for submission, although a minority have described issues regarding authorship disputes. Finally, setting clear expectations, being collegial, mutually respectful, and having regular communication was identified by survey respondents and interviewees as integral features of a healthy ECR mentee- mentor relationship. In conclusion, the mentee-mentor relationship is critically important for ECR career development, and the findings of this study have wider implications for the development of effective ECR mentee and mentor training programs across the STEMM disciplines.
Five-analyzer Johann spectrometer for hard X-ray photon-in/photon-out spectroscopy at the Inner Shell Spectroscopy beamline at NSLS-II: design, alignment and data acquisition
Authors: Tayal Akhil , Coburn David Scott , Abel Donald , Rakitin Max , Ivashkevych Oksana , Wlodek Jakub , Wierzbicki Dominik , Xu Weihe , Nazaretski Evgeny , Stavitski Eli , Leshchev Denis
Published: October 2024

Here, a recently commissioned five-analyzer Johann spectrometer at the Inner Shell Spectroscopy beamline (8-ID) at the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) is presented. Designed for hard X-ray photon-in/photon-out spectroscopy, the spectrometer achieves a resolution in the 0.5–2 eV range, depending on the element and/or emission line, providing detailed insights into the local electronic and geometric structure of materials. It serves a diverse user community, including fields such as physical, chemical, biological, environmental and materials sciences. This article details the mechanical design, alignment procedures and data-acquisition scheme of the spectrometer, with a particular focus on the continuous asynchronous data-acquisition approach that significantly enhances experimental efficiency.
distect: automatic sample-position tracking for X-ray experiments using computer vision algorithms
Authors: Berg Michael , Furrer Dirk , Thominet Vincent , Wang Xiaoqiang , Zeugin Stefan , Grabner Helmut , Stockinger Kurt , Piamonteze Cinthia
Published: October 2024

Soft X-ray spectroscopy is an important technique for measuring the fundamental properties of materials. However, for measurements of samples in the sub-millimetre range, many experimental setups show limitations. Position drifts on the order of hundreds of micrometres during thermal stabilization of the system can last for hours of expensive beam time. To compensate for drifts, sample tracking and feedback systems must be used. However, in complex sample environments where sample access is very limited, many existing solutions cannot be applied. In this work, we apply a robust computer vision algorithm to automatically track and readjust the sample position in the dozens of micrometres range. Our approach is applied in a complex sample environment, where the sample is in an ultra-high vacuum chamber, surrounded by cooled thermal shields to reach sample temperatures down to 2.5 K and in the center of a superconducting split coil. Our implementation allows sample-position tracking and adjustment in the vertical direction since this is the dimension where drifts occur during sample temperature change in our setup. The approach can be easily extended to 2D. The algorithm enables a factor of ten improvement in the overlap of a series of X-ray absorption spectra in a sample with a vertical size down to 70 µm. This solution can be used in a variety of experimental stations, where optical access is available and sample access by other means is reduced.
Peer support amongst autistic children: an examination of the communication structure in small-group discussions
Authors: Mankinen Senja , Ferreira Juliene Madureira , Mykkänen Arttu
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Over the past decade, many studies have investigated peer support between neurotypical and neurodivergent children. Less is known about how autistic children support each other in educational contexts, especially in basic education, where child-adult interactions are still predominant. This study aims to investigate whether and how autistic children supported each other in small-group discussions in the first years of basic education. This paper focused on unraveling the communication structures of these supportive events, aiming to understand further how autistic children make sense of social interactions and intersubjective processes that require peer support.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on conversation analysis methods, this paper analyzed the transcripts of the small-group discussions, identifying and analyzing the construction of support in children’s dialogues. Nine Finnish children (7–10 years old) attending mainstream school in Finland under intensified support in part-time special classrooms participated in this study. The study adopted a specific method called Idea Diary to frame the small-group discussions. The teacher guided the conversations, providing a dynamic structure for children’s interactions, but students were encouraged to interact among themselves. This paper recorded 11 sessions within the six-month implementation of the Idea Diary, totaling 240 min of data.

Findings

Results show that the children recognized situations where other children needed support in interactions and intervened in ways that promoted the continuation of the conversation and the clarification of ideas. Autistic children were sensitive to peers’ unspoken needs, capable of identifying subtle nuances of conversation dynamics and able to express support through comments and questions during the small-group discussions.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into the understudied phenomenon of peer support among autistic children in small-group discussions. It contributes to the growing corpus of research dedicated to exploring and revealing social competencies among autistic people. It discusses implications for developing educational practices that foster social interactions respecting the quality of autistic interactions and the interests of autistic students.
The performance evaluation of hybrid roller bearings under lubricant contamination conditions
Authors: Zhao Xudong , Zhang Yimin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the dynamic performance of hybrid roller bearings under lubricant contamination.

Design/methodology/approach

Some steel rollers in traditional cylindrical thrust roller bearings were replaced with ceramic rollers to assemble hybrid roller bearings. Friction experiments were conducted under lubricant contamination using alumina as the contaminant, and simultaneous vibration acceleration signals from the bearings were collected to evaluate their tribological and dynamic performance.

Findings

Under lubricant contamination, hybrid roller bearings with a sufficient number of ceramic rollers exhibit greater wear resistance compared to traditional all-steel bearings. There is a noticeable suppression of energy in both tangential and normal frequency bands of the bearings, with more pronounced suppression observed in higher frequency bands.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable insights for the development of hybrid ceramic bearings.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2024-0291/
Position paper: public policy implications in publicly funded infrastructure projects
Authors: Al Naqbi Khalid Khalfan Mohamed , Ojiako Udechukwu , Al-Mhdawi M.K.S. , Chipulu Maxwell , Dweiri Fikri T. , Bashir Hamdi , AlRaeesi Eman Jasim Hussain
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This essay contributes to the ongoing exposition of a project management-focused understanding of “public policy” implementation. Distinct from previous studies that take a predominantly administrative sciences perspective, the delivery and implementation of publicly funded infrastructure projects as an instrument of public policy is explored through the lens of legal frameworks.

Design/methodology/approach

We adopt the explanation-building review approach to provide descriptions and explanations of the relevant enablers and context necessary for the successful delivery and implementation of publicly funded infrastructure projects.

Findings

The ambiguity associated with public policy is more likely to hinder than facilitate the use of publicly funded infrastructure projects as preferred instruments of choice for implementing public policy.

Originality/value

Despite substantial interest among academics and practitioners in utilising projects as tools for public policy implementation, thorough discussions on the legal complexities inherent in these projects remain scarce.
Are you happy with your work? Side effects of workloads and work–family conflict in higher education
Authors: Kim Long , Yeo Sook Fern
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Lacking lecturers in higher education is an international issue where society faces insufficient educational services to enlighten one’s future, and lecturer work satisfaction also merits higher attention. Work satisfaction is closely associated with turnover rates, lecturer retention, overall university cohesion, lecturers’ well-being, professional teaching improvement and research and publication performances. This study aims to explore how causes of actions (work–family conflict [WFC] and workload) influence consequences (stress and burnout) which affect the overall attitude (lecturer work satisfaction).

Design/methodology/approach

Researchers collected data from 450 Thai lecturers from different universities via survey questionnaires. Furthermore, a structural equation model method was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Results showed that lecturer stress was significantly influenced by WFC and workload. Next, stress, workload and WFC were the main predictors of lecturer burnout. Then, lecturer work satisfaction was significantly influenced by burnout, except stress. Finally, a relationship between lecturer stress and work satisfaction was mediated by burnout.

Originality/value

This research proposes a theoretical mechanism to analyze how causes of actions (WFC and workload) influence consequences (stress and burnout) which lead to a development of lecturer attitude (work satisfaction) in higher education.
Wine polyphenol oxidation mechanism and the effects on wine quality: A review
Authors: Bai Xuebing , Chen Xinlong , Li Xiaohan , Tan Fangdai , Sam Faisal Eudes , Tao Yongsheng
Published: October 2024

Over the last few decades, there has been considerable interest in studying wine oxidation. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview and analysis of the molecular changes caused by oxidation in wine and how they affect wine quality. Simultaneously, the recent advancements in understanding the molecular pathways involved in wine oxidation are also discussed. The paper first explores the process of oxygen dissolution and the complex transformations that occur in polyphenols during oxidation. It then reviews the current methods of micro‐oxidation (MOX) and over‐oxidation (OOX). Subsequently, it introduces oxidation kinetics, and controls indexes for the degree of oxidation and the underlying principles. Additionally, it discusses the effects of oxidation on the sensory qualities of wine and analyzes the interrelationships between oxidation, functional components, and drinkability. The comprehensive review of the literature shows that OOX leads to the rapid depletion of polyphenols, reducing the overall antioxidant capacity of the wine and affecting its appearance and flavor. In contrast, MOX promotes a balanced matrix and enhances the complexity of the aroma. Polyphenols, particularly resveratrol, can interact with reactive oxygen species or activate endogenous defense mechanisms to mitigate diseases risks. However, the presence of oxygen can activate the antioxidant mechanism of resveratrol, resulting in decreased content and a diminished anti‐disease effect. Despite this, a clear distinction between OOX and MOX has not been established. Future research should focus on identifying and defining precise oxidation levels using control indexes for the degree of oxidation.
Development and validation of a renal involvement model for patients with hyperuricemia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Chen Fangfang , Du Xingchen , Zhao Li , Wan Weiguo , Zou Hejian , Yu Xue
Published: October 2024

Objective

To construct a prediction model for renal involvement in patients with hyperuricemia (HUA) based on logistic regression analysis, to achieve early risk stratification.

Method

In this cross‐sectional study, we collected data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), and constructed a predicted model for renal involvement in HUA patients. The discriminative ability of the model was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Model accuracy was evaluated using the Hosmer‐Lemeshow test and calibration curve, while clinical utility was assessed using decision curve analysis (DCA). Furthermore, internal and external validation cohorts were also applied to validate the model.

Results

A total of 1669 patients from NHANES between 2007 and 2010 were included in the final analysis for modeling and validation. Six predictive factors including age, Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), Cr, Uric Acid (UA), and sex were identified by binary logistic regression analysis for renal involvement in HUA patients and used to construct a nomogram with good consistency and accuracy. The AUC values for the predictive model, internal validation, and external validation were 0.881 (95% CI: 0.836–0.926), 0.908 (95% CI: 0.871–0.944), and 0.927 (95% CI: 0.897–0.957), respectively. The calibration curves demonstrated consistency between the nomogram and observed values. The DCA curves of the model and validation cohort indicated good clinical utility.

Conclusion

This study developed a predictive model for renal involvement in hyperuricemia patients with strong predictive performance and validated by internal and external cohorts, aiding in the early detection of high‐risk populations for renal involvement.
Basic income in crisis? (Hard) lessons from the pandemic
Authors: De Wispelaere Jurgen , Chrisp Joe , Morales Leticia
Published: October 2024

This short paper reflects on the key lessons we can learn from the political debate around and policy experimentation with (emergency) basic income schemes in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. While the pandemic crisis initially seems to have opened up a policy window for introducing a basic income as a crisis instrument, theoretical arguments and empirical observations strongly suggest the reliance of some basic income advocates on crisis events, such as the pandemic, to push forward their policy ideas involves wishful thinking rather than political reality. A feasible roadmap towards introducing basic income requires the hard work of raising public awareness, constructing broad constituencies, and building robust political coalitions rather than waiting for the next crisis to come around the corner.
Probenecid as a pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder: A randomized placebo‐controlled alcohol interaction trial
Authors: Hornbacher Rivkah , Gully Brian J. , Brown Zoe E. , Brown Joshua C. , Magill Molly , Cioe Patricia A. , Swift Robert M. , Sanna Pietro Paolo , Haass‐Koffler Carolina L.
Published: October 2024

Background

This study shows the first evidence for pannexin 1 channels as a new target to develop medications for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Due to its history of long‐term safe clinical use and preclinical evidence of reducing excessive alcohol intake in rodents, probenecid has clinical potential for AUD.

Methods

We conducted a Phase I/IIa randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial investigating the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of an oral dose of probenecid (2 g) when administered with alcohol (0.08 g/dL) in individuals who regularly consume alcohol to the 0.08 g/dL level (N = 35) and in individuals with mild to severe AUD. Alcohol pharmacokinetics and subjective responses were evaluated to assess potential interactions between probenecid and alcohol. Alcohol craving, inflammatory biomarkers, cognitive assessments, and hemodynamics were assessed as additional alcohol research domains. All outcomes were assessed both in the ascending and descending limb of alcohol intoxication using Generalized Estimating Equation.

Results

Probenecid did not exert any significant effect on alcohol pharmacokinetics and did not affect alcohol stimulation or sedation. Probenecid, compared to placebo, significantly decreased alcohol craving during the alcohol ascending limb. Inflammatory biomarkers, cognitive performance following alcohol ingestion, and hemodynamics were likewise not affected by probenecid administration. Analysis of sex as a biological variable revealed no differences of probenecid compared to placebo.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data support the potential of probenecid for treatment of AUD and suggest that pannexin 1 channels represent a novel emerging therapeutic target for the development of new pharmacotherapies for treating AUD.
Killer Whale Predation on a Giant Manta Ray (Mobula birostris), a Sicklefin Devil Ray (Mobula tarapacana) and a Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) in the Southwest Indian Ocean
Authors: Terrapon Maeva , Venables Stephanie K. , Lokker Anthony , Bertrand Nils , Hooker Sascha K. , Marshall Andrea D.
Published: October 2024

Knowledge of killer whale (Orcinus orca) feeding ecology in tropical waters is scarce. In the southwest Indian Ocean, opportunistic sightings provide a valuable source of information to better understand their behaviour, diet and distribution. Here, we compile existing records of killer whale predation on elasmobranchs in the southwest Indian Ocean, including sightings of three undescribed prey species regionally: a giant manta ray (Mobula birostris), a sicklefin devil ray (Mobula tarapacana) and a tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier). Documenting such observations is important to increase knowledge on killer whale ecology in the tropics and the cascading impact they might have on prey populations.
Pregnancy Outcomes in Grand Multiparity Women With Antiphospholipid Antibodies
Authors: Zloto Keren , Steinberg Shani , Lev Shir , Yoeli‐Ullman Rakefet , Niznik Stanley , Agmon‐Levin Nancy , Ofir Keren
Published: October 2024

Objective

In recent years antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) as well as antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) prevalence has demonstrated an upward trend in women during reproductive age. There is a lack of data concerning its effects on women with grand multiparity (GMP) (parity ≥5). Hence, this study aimed to assess pregnancy outcomes among GMP aPL/APS patients.

Study Design

We retrospectively assembled the births of GMP women with aPL/APS, between 2017 and 2022 in the Sheba Medical Center. We compared their deliveries with those of two control groups: (1) the “aPL/APS‐controls”—of pregnant women with aPL/APS and parity <5. (2) The “GMP‐controls”‐ parity ≥5 without aPL/APS. We examined demographics, aPL characteristics, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes between the groups.

Results

In total, 42 deliveries in the study group were compared to 461 deliveries in the “aPL/APS‐controls” group and 84 deliveries of the “GMP‐controls.” Most parameters were similar across groups. However, the study group had a higher rate of obstetric APS diagnosis (64.64% vs. 83.33%, p < 0.01) and showed significant differences such as older maternal age, higher BMI, more polyhydramnios cases, and larger babies compared to controls (33.91 vs. 36.19, p = 0.05; 23.2 vs. 28.89, p = 0.02; 3.68 vs. 11.9, p = 0.01; and 2.17 vs. 14.28, p < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings reveal that perinatal outcomes in aPL/APS GMP women are comparable and not inferior to those in aPL/APS women with <5 pregnancies or in comparison to the general GMP population. The minor differences observed may all be related to GMP women's older age and higher BMI.
Polycystic ovary syndrome and gestational diabetes mellitus association to pregnancy outcomes: A national register‐based cohort study
Authors: Valdimarsdottir Ragnheidur , Vanky Eszter , Elenis Evangelia , Ahlsson Fredrik , Lindström Linda , Junus Katja , Wikström Anna‐Karin , Poromaa Inger Sundström
Published: October 2024

Introduction

It is well known that both women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have increased risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes, but little is known whether the combination of these two conditions exacerbates the risks. We explored risk estimates for adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with either PCOS or GDM and the combination of both PCOS and GDM.

Material and Methods

Nationwide register‐based historical cohort study in Sweden including women who gave birth to singleton infants during 1997–2015 (N = 281 806). The risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes were estimated for women exposed for PCOS‐only (n = 40 272), GDM‐only (n = 2236), both PCOS and GDM (n = 1036) using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Risks were expressed as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and adjusted for maternal characteristics, including maternal BMI. Women with neither PCOS nor GDM served as control group. Maternal outcomes were gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and obstetric anal sphincter injury. Neonatal outcomes were preterm birth, stillbirth, shoulder dystocia, born small or large for gestational age, macrosomia, low Apgar score, infant birth trauma, cerebral impact of the infant, neonatal hypoglycemia, meconium aspiration syndrome and respiratory distress.

Results

Based on non‐significant PCOS by GDM interaction analyses, we found no evidence that having PCOS adds any extra risk beyond that of having GDM for maternal and neonatal outcomes. For example, the adjusted odds ratio for preeclampsia in women with PCOS‐only were 1.18 (95% CI 1.11–1.26), for GDM‐only 1.77 (95% CI 1.45–2.15), and for women with PCOS and GDM 1.86 (95% CI 1.46–2.36). Corresponding adjusted odds ratio for preterm birth in women with PCOS‐only were 1.34 (95% CI 1.28–1.41), GDM‐only 1.64 (95% CI 1.39–1.93), and for women with PCOS and GDM 2.08 (95% CI 1.67–2.58). Women with PCOS had an increased risk of stillbirth compared with the control group (aOR 1.52, 95% CI 1.29–1.80), whereas no increased risk was noted in women with GDM (aOR 0.58, 95% CI 0.24–1.39).

Conclusions

The combination of PCOS and GDM adds no extra risk beyond that of having GDM alone, for a number of maternal and neonatal outcomes. Nevertheless, PCOS is still an unrecognized risk factor in pregnancy, exemplified by the increased risk of stillbirth.
Diverse methodologies of care: Thinking with and practising (soil) in situated, affective and enactive ways
Authors: Sharp Emma L. , Yee Kenzi , Makey Leane , Fisher Karen
Published: October 2024

This research article outlines a provocation for diverse and experimentally open, situated approaches to exploring care and caring. The diversely positioned authors discuss this idea using the subject of soil, in the place and context of Aotearoa New Zealand. Little is known about the diversity of ways that everyday people value, or, have caring relationships for/with soil, among a plethora of research that positions soil ‘care’ around, for example, commercial food production, waste‐sinking, or property land value. To study diverse care in relation to soil, as with many relational subjects, requires equivalent diversity in the ways in which we might explore it. Here we outline the basis for diverse, situated methodologies that necessarily lead to a diversity of methods. This paper looks at the methodological imperatives that lead to exploring care, and discusses a variety of methods that generate different forms of ‘data’ with different forms of representation of that care. We observe that to holistically observe care relations with soil requires a diversity of methodologies, inherently ontological and epistemological – worldmaking. We discuss situated and enactive, affective approaches of Kaupapa Māori enquiry, monitoring and arts‐based approaches to ‘measure’ soil care taking place, in place, and contextualise this with our own author positionality. We discuss this suite of experimental, reflexive, affective and responsive ways to measure soil care that are contingent on that being cared about, for, with and by, and which reciprocally give care.