bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct roles for MNK1 and MNK2 in social and cognitive behavior through kinase-specific regulation of the synaptic proteome and phosphoproteome
Authors: Proce Rosalba Olga , Uddstrom Erika , Steinecker Maria , Wusthoff Souhaila , Alves Luiz Gustavo Teixeira , Popp Oliver , Maxwell Katie , Hortmann Lucie , Mertins Philipp , Landthaler Markus , Bunina Daria , Hoernberg Hanna
Published: December 2024

Local mRNA translation is required for adaptive changes in the synaptic proteome. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) interacting protein kinases 1 and 2 (MNK1 and MNK2) have emerged as key regulators of neuronal translation, primarily through phosphorylation of the eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E). The therapeutic benefits of targeting the MNKs are being investigated for nervous system conditions and disorders that affect translation, including autism, pain, and cancer. However, it is still unclear if MNK1 and MNK2 regulate distinct aspects of neuronal translation and how the activity of each kinase is associated with the synaptic and behavioral features linked to MNK signaling. To examine the individual neurobiological functions of each kinase, we used knockout mice lacking either MNK1 or MNK2. We found that the knockout of MNK1 and MNK2 leads to different social and cognitive behavioral profiles and distinct alterations of the cortical synaptic proteome, transcriptome, and phosphoproteome. Loss of MNK1 was associated with an increase in ribosomal protein expression, whereas deletion of MNK2 decreased the expression and phosphorylation of synaptic proteins. Together, our findings provide evidence for a high degree of functional specialization of the MNKs in synaptic compartments and suggest that pharmacological inhibition of individual MNK may provide more specific targets for neurological disorders.
Wireless bioelectronic device for wound healing
Authors: Baniya Prabhat , Tebyani Maryam , Hee Wan Shen , Li Houpu , Asefifeyzabadi Narges , Yang Hsin-ya , Zhu Kan , Keller Gordon , Franco Celeste , Schorger Kaelan , Devarajan Koushik , Barbee Alexie , Hernandez Cristian , Nguyen Tiffany , Lu Fan , Gallegos Anthony , Recendez Cynthia , Isseroff Roslyn Rivkah , Zhao Min , Gomez Marcella , Rolandi Marco , Teodorescu Mircea
Published: December 2024

Wound healing is a prolonged biological process that goes through multiple phases spanning several weeks. In order to improve wound healing, we introduce a wireless, bioelectronic device that can deliver various treatments for multiple days while continuously monitoring the delivery. Devices are developed for delivery of fluoxetine cations (Flx+) and electric field (EF) in freely moving pigs. The treatments can be controlled and monitored real-time via WiFi, with options for both user specified delivery rate and duration as well as automated closed-loop control. The devices are designed to handle various failure scenarios that can come in dynamic, real-world experiments such as communication and power interruptions so that valuable experimental data can continue to be gathered. The ion pump on the wireless device consists of eight channels, arranged in a circular pattern near the edge of a 20 mm diameter wound, to deliver charged biomolecules such as Flx+. For EF delivery, an additional center reference channel is provided. When the applied voltages at the outer eight channels are higher than the center channel, it results in the applied EF to be in the same direction as the endogenous EF and aids the healing process. The device locally records the applied voltages and currents as a function of time on a microSD card at a high sampling rate while simultaneously sending real-time measurements, via a local WiFi network to a wound healing algorithm, running on a remote laptop. The closed-loop control of current/delivery rate is done by onboard microcontroller unit (MCU) and current sources based on the instructions received from the wound healing algorithm. A graphical user interface (GUI) is developed to provide seamless user control and data viewing capabilities with support for multiple devices. Using immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, we found that the M1/M2 ratio of a Flx+—treated wound at the edge had improved by 70.2% compared with a control wound, both harvested after three days of wound creation. Similarly, using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, we found that the re-epithelialization of a Flx+-treated wound had improved by 39.5% compared with a standard-of-care wound, both harvested after seven days of wound creation. Both of these results indicate the potential of the wireless bioelectronic device to improve wound healing.
Stimulation parameters shape effective connectivity pathways: insights from microstate analysis on TMS-evoked potentials
Authors: Lucarelli Delia , Guidali Giacomo , Sulcova Dominika , Zazio Agnese , Bonfiglio Natale Salvatore , Stango Antonietta , Barchiesi Guido , Bortoletto Marta
Published: December 2024

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)-evoked potentials (TEPs) represent an innovative measure for examining brain connectivity and developing biomarkers of psychiatric conditions. Minimising TEP variability across studies and participants, which may stem from methodological choices, is therefore vital. By combining classic peak analysis and microstate investigation, we tested how TMS pulse waveform and current direction may affect effective connectivity when targeting the primary motor cortex (M1). We aim to disentangle whether changing these parameters affects the degree of activation of the same neural circuitry or may lead to changes in the pathways through which the induced activation spreads.

Thirty-two healthy participants underwent a TMS-EEG experiment in which the pulse waveform (monophasic, biphasic) and current direction (posterior-anterior, anterior-posterior, latero-medial) were manipulated. We assessed the latency and amplitude of M1-TEP components and employed microstate analyses to test differences in topographies.

Results revealed that TMS parameters strongly influenced M1-TEP components’ amplitude but had a weaker role over their latencies. Importantly, microstate analysis showed that the current direction in monophasic stimulations changed the pattern of evoked microstates at the early TEP latencies, as well as their duration and the overall amount of activated brain resources associated.

This study shows that the current direction of monophasic pulses may modulate cortical sources contributing to TEP signals, activating neural populations and cortico-cortical paths more selectively. Biphasic stimulation reduces the variability associated with current direction and may be better suited when TMS targeting is blind to anatomical information.
Transient receptor potential vanilloid channel 2 contributes to multi-modal endoplasmic reticulum and perinuclear space dilations that can also be observed in prion-infected mice
Authors: Zhao Wenda , Eid Shehab , Sackmann Chris , Williams Declan , Wang Xinzhu , Ouyang Yunqing , Zerbes Thomas , Schmitt-Ulms Gerold
Published: December 2024

Our recent work on the prion protein and Na+,K+-ATPases (NKAs) led us to revisit data from over 50 years ago, which suggested a similarity between vacuolation phenotypes in rodents poisoned with cardiac glycosides (CGs) and spongiform degeneration in prion disease. At that time, this hypothesis was dismissed because the vacuolation observed in prion diseases affects neurons, whereas CG poisoning in rodent brains led to swellings of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in astrocytes. We speculated that this difference might be specific to rodents and document here that the vacuolation shifts to neurons in mice expressing a humanized NKA α1 subunit. Next, we investigated the molecular mechanisms that could cause similar ER vacuolation in human cellsin vitro. We found that certain stressors—such as overexpression of NKA α subunits and exposure to specific toxins known to trigger the unfolded protein response—can induce a phenotype characterized by profound ER dilation that is most strikingly observed for the perinuclear space (PNS). The ion imbalance typically caused by functional NKAs does not contribute to this phenotype. In fact, it can occur even with the overexpression of catalytically inactive NKAs. Several lines of evidence, generated with pharmacological agents, ion-specific dyes, antagonists, and truncated expression constructs, suggest a calcium leak channel in the ER, known as transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (TRPV2), plays a role in this ER and PNS dilation. Additionally, we observed that the formation of these vacuoles coincides with a decrease in steady-state levels of the lipid kinase PIKFYVE, which is recognized for its role in endolysosomal fission and fusion processes. Finally, we found evidence of vacuoles in cryo-sectioned brains of prion-infected mice that can be filled with a fluorescent marker targeted to the ER and PNS. This raises the possibility that this vacuolation phenomenon contributes to spongiform degeneration seen in prion diseases.
Timing of Menarche and Menopause and Epigenetic Aging among U.S. Adults: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2002
Authors: Daredia Saher , Khodasevich Dennis , Gladish Nicole , Shen Hanyang , Nwanaji-Enwerem Jamaji C. , Bozack Anne K. , Needham Belinda L. , Rehkopf David H. , Deardorff Julianna , Cardenas Andres
Published: December 2024

Reproductive aging, including timing of menarche and menopause, influences long-term morbidity and mortality in women, yet underlying biological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Using DNA methylation-based biomarkers, we assessed associations of age at menarche (N=1,033) and menopause (N=658) with epigenetic aging in a nationally representative sample of women ≥50 years. Later age at menopause was associated with lower GrimAge epigenetic age deviation (B= -0.10 years, 95% CI: -0.19, -0.02). No associations were observed for menarche timing. This suggests a connection between earlier menopause and biological aging, with potential clinical implications for identifying those at high risk for age-related disease.
Racial disparities in continuous glucose monitoring-based 60-min glucose predictions among people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Thomsen Helene Bei , Li Livie Yumeng , Isaksen Anders A. , Lebiecka-Johansen Benjamin , Bour Charline , Fagherazzi Guy , van Doorn William P. T. M. , Varga Tibor V. , Hulman Adam
Published: December 2024

Non-Hispanic white (White) populations are overrepresented in medical studies. Potential healthcare disparities can happen when machine learning models, used in diabetes technologies, are trained on data from primarily White patients. We aimed to evaluate algorithmic fairness in glucose predictions. This study utilized continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data from 101 White and 104 Black participants with type 1 diabetes collected by the JAEB Center for Health Research, US. Long short-term memory (LSTM) deep learning models were trained on 11 datasets of different proportions of White and Black participants and tailored to each individual using transfer learning to predict glucose 60 minutes ahead based on 60-minute windows. Root mean squared errors (RMSE) were calculated for each participant. Linear mixed-effect models were used to investigate the association between racial composition and RMSE while accounting for age, sex, and training data size.

A median of 9 weeks (IQR: 7, 10) of CGM data was available per participant. The divergence in performance (RMSE slope by proportion) was not statistically significant for either group. However, the slope difference (from 0% White and 100% Black to 100% White and 0% Black) between groups was statistically significant (p=0.02), meaning the RMSE increased 0.04 [0.01, 0.08] mmol/L more for Black participants compared to White participants when the proportion of White participants increased from 0 to 100% in the training data. This difference was attenuated in the transfer learned models (RMSE: 0.02 [-0.01, 0.05] mmol/L, p=0.20).

The racial composition of training data created a small statistically significant difference in the performance of the models, which was not present after using transfer learning. This demonstrates the importance of diversity in datasets and the potential value of transfer learning for developing more fair prediction models.
Bottom-up design of calcium channels from defined selectivity filter geometry
Authors: Liu Yulai , Weidle Connor , Mihaljević Ljubica , Watson Joseph L. , Li Zhe , Yu Le Tracy , Majumder Sagardip , Borst Andrew J. , Carr Kenneth D. , Kibler Ryan D. , Gamal El-Din Tamer M. , Catterall William A. , Baker David
Published: December 2024

Native ion channels play key roles in biological systems, and engineered versions are widely used as chemogenetic tools and in sensing devices1,2. Protein design has been harnessed to generate pore-containing transmembrane proteins, but the capability to design ion selectivity based on the interactions between ions and selectivity filter residues, a crucial feature of native ion channels3, has been constrained by the lack of methods to place the metal-coordinating residues with atomic-level precision. Here we describe a bottom-up RFdiffusion-based approach to construct Ca2+channels from defined selectivity filter residue geometries, and use this approach to design symmetric oligomeric channels with Ca2+selectivity filters having different coordination numbers and different geometries at the entrance of a wide pore buttressed by multiple transmembrane helices. The designed channel proteins assemble into homogenous pore-containing particles, and for both tetrameric and hexameric ion-coordinating configurations, patch-clamp experiments show that the designed channels have higher conductances for Ca2+than for Na+and other divalent ions (Sr2+and Mg2+). Cryo-electron microscopy indicates that the design method has high accuracy: the structure of the hexameric Ca2+channel is nearly identical to the design model. Our bottom-up design approach now enables the testing of hypotheses relating filter geometry to ion selectivity by direct construction, and provides a roadmap for creating selective ion channels for a wide range of applications.
Recombinant Pichinde reporter virus as a safe and suitable surrogate for high-throughput antiviral screening against highly pathogenic arenaviruses
Authors: Sacramento Carolina Q. , Bott Ryan , Huang Qinfeng , Eaton Brett , Postnikova Elena , Sabir Ahmad J. , Argade Malaika D. , Ratia Kiira , Anantpadma Manu , Carlier Paul R , Ly Hinh , Liang Yuying , Rong Lijun
Published: December 2024

Several arenaviruses, such as the Old World (OW) Lassa virus (LASV) and the New World (NW) Junin virus (JUNV), can cause severe and lethal viral hemorrhagic fevers in humans. Currently, no vaccines or specific antiviral therapies are FDA-approved for treating arenavirus infections. One major challenge for the development of new therapeutic candidates against these highly pathogenic viruses is that they are BSL-3/4 pathogens that need to be handled in high biocontainment laboratories. In this work, a recombinant non-pathogenic New World arenavirus, Pichinde virus (rPICV), was used for the development of a high-throughput screening (HTS) assay in the BSL-2 laboratory for the screening and identification of small molecule inhibitors against arenaviruses. The rPICV is a replication-competent virus expressing the firefly luciferase reporter gene in the infected cells proportionally to the infection rate. rPICV infection was optimized for an automated HTS in 384-well format with robust Z′ scores, high signal-to-background ratios, and low intrinsic variance. Screening an established library allowed for the identification of five top hit compounds, which included ribavirin, a known inhibitor of arenaviral RNA synthesis, showing good potency and selectivity in inhibiting rPICV replication. The antiviral activity of the top hit compounds was further validated against another recombinant arenavirus, the OW lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (rLCMV) and against laboratory strains of LASV (Josiah) and JUNV (Romero). The use of rPICV in the HTS-based antiviral assay under BSL-2 condition has proven to be safe and suitable for the identification of broad-spectrum small molecule inhibitors against highly pathogenic arenaviruses.
Capturing Dynamic Neuronal Responses to Dominant and Subordinate Social Hierarchy Members with catFISH
Authors: Dwortz Madeleine F. , Curley James P.
Published: December 2024

Dominance hierarchies are key to social organization in group-living species, requiring individuals to recognize their own and others’ ranks. This is particularly complex for intermediate-ranking animals, who navigate interactions with higher- and lower-ranking individuals. Using in situ hybridization, we examined how the brains of intermediate-ranked mice in hierarchies respond to dominant and subordinate stimuli by labeling activity-induced immediate early genes and neuronal markers. We show that distinct neuronal populations in the amygdala and hippocampus respond differentially across social contexts. In the basolateral amygdala, glutamatergic Slc17a7+ neurons, particularly dopamine-receptive Slc17a7+Drd1+ neurons, show elevated IEG expression in response to social stimuli, with a higher response to dominant over subordinate animals. Similar patterns are observed among Slc17a7+Oxtr+ neurons in the dorsal endopiriform nucleus and GABAergic Slc32a+ neurons in the medial amygdala. We also identified distinct neural ensembles selectively active in response to dominant and subordinate hierarchy members. We find a higher degree of reactivation among Slc17a7+Oxtr+ ensembles in the dorsal endopiriform nucleus in animals repeatedly presented with the same hierarchy member, as opposed to those presented with a dominant and subordinate member. We observe a similar pattern among Oxtr+ neurons in the dentate gyrus hilus, while the inverse is observed among Slc17a7+ Avrp1b+Oxtr+ neurons in the distal CA2CA3 region. Collectively, our findings reveal how social context is associated with activity changes in social, olfactory, and memory systems in the brain at the neuronal cell type level. This work lays the foundation for further precise cell-type investigation into how the brain processes social information.
The Chromosome Periphery is an Essential Compartment of Oocyte Chromosomes
Authors: Simpson Eva L , Wetherall Ben , Byrska Aleksandra , Cheeseman Liam P , Mendonca Tania , Xing Xiaomeng , Beckett Alison J , Maiato Helder , Sarginson Alexandra , Prior Ian A , Hartshorne Geraldine M , McAinsh Andrew D , Madgwick Suzanne , Booth Daniel G.
Published: December 2024

Chromosomes and their constituent compartments are core elements of the cell division machinery. In mammalian oocytes, defects in the structure or composition of chromosomes are a leading cause of aberrant or failed meiosis, and by extension, can cause miscarriage and infertility. The underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, but are critical for development of novel diagnostics and treatments.

The chromosome periphery, the least understood chromosome compartment, has recently emerged as an essential component of mitotic chromosomes and somatic cell division. However, in female meiosis it remains completely unexplored.

This study provides the first comprehensive survey of a meiotic chromosome periphery compartment in both human and mouse oocytes. Using a combination of time-lapse microscopy, super-resolution imaging and 3DCLEM we show that removing the chromosome periphery, via Ki67 depletion, has substantial negative impact on chromosome structure, spatial organization and positional awareness, with many oocytes stalling and arresting in meiosis I. Importantly, we also reveal key differences between the mitotic and oocyte meiotic chromosome periphery compartments, most remarkably in the retention of Ki67 in the oocyte through anaphase I, where unwanted chromosomes are stripped of Ki67 before being ejected from the oocyte.

This work presents the discovery of an exciting new pathway operating during female meiosis and a provides a platform for future work exploring the meiotic chromosome periphery for therapeutic vulnerabilities.
A comprehensive spatiotemporal map of dystrophin isoform expression in the developing and adult human brain
Authors: Catapano Francesco , Alkharji Reem , Chambers Darren , Singh Simran , Aghaeipour Arta , Malhotra Jyoti , Ferretti Patrizia , Phadke Rahul , Muntoni Francesco
Published: December 2024

Mutations in the dystrophin gene (DMD)cause the severe muscle-wasting disease Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Additionally, there is a high incidence of intellectual disability and neurobehavioural comorbidities in individuals with DMD. Similar behavioural abnormalities are found inmdxdystrophic mouse models. Unlike muscle, several dystrophin isoforms are expressed in the human brain, but a detailed map of regional and cellular localisation of dystrophin isoforms is missing. This is crucial in understanding the neuropathology of DMD individuals, and for evaluating the translatability of pre-clinical findings in DMD mouse models receiving genetic therapy interventions. Here, we provide a comprehensive dystrophin expression profile in human brains from early development to adulthood. We reveal expression ofdp427p2,dp427c,dp427manddp40isoforms in embryonic brains, not previously reported.Dp427p2anddp140were greatly downregulated in adult brains, although the latter continued to be expressed across several regions. Importantly, we demonstrate for the first-time expression ofDMDtranscripts in human motor neurons and co-expression of different dystrophin isoforms within single neurons in both developing and adult brains. Finally, we show localisation ofDMDtranscripts withGAD1+ GABAergic-associated transcripts in neurons including cerebellar Purkinje cells and interneurons, as well as in the majority of neocortical and hippocampalSLC17A7+ glutamatergic neurones, suggesting a role for dystrophin in signalling at the neuronal inhibitory and excitatory synapses.

Graphical Abstract
Birthdate aligns vestibular sensory neurons with central and motor partners across a sensorimotor reflex circuit for gaze stabilization
Authors: Huang Stephanie , Greaney Marie R. , Davis Samantha N. , Schoppik David , Goldblatt Dena
Published: December 2024

Developing populations of connected neurons often share spatial and/or temporal features that anticipate their assembly. A unifying spatiotemporal motif might link sensory, central, and motor populations that comprise an entire circuit. In the sensorimotor reflex circuit that stabilizes vertebrate gaze, central and motor partners are paired in time (birthdate) and space (dorso-ventral). To determine if birthdate and/or dorso-ventral organization could align the entire circuit, we measured the spatial and temporal development of the sensory circuit node: the vestibular ganglion neurons. We discovered progressive dorsal-to-ventral development in the vestibular ganglion that diverges from its functional (rostrocaudal) organization. With an acute optical lesion and calcium imaging paradigm, we found that this common spatiotemporal axis anticipated functional sensory-to-central partner matching. We propose a “first-come, first-served” model in which birthdate organizes the sensory, central, and motor populations that comprise the gaze stabilization circuit. Our work suggests a general means for poly-synaptic circuit assembly across embryonically-diverse neural populations.
The Soil Microbiome of the Caatinga Drylands in Brazil
Authors: Tacca Luísa Mayumi Arake de , Lima Rayane Nunes , Oliveira Marco Antônio de , Pascoal Patrícia Verdugo , Bambil Deborah , Rosinha Grácia Maria Soares , Signor Diana , Freire Marcelo , Rech Elibio
Published: December 2024

Drylands represent a significant part of the Earth’s surface and include essential and vulnerable ecosystems for the global ecological balance. The Caatinga, with its unique biodiversity adapted to the extreme conditions of this semi-arid region, offers a valuable opportunity to expand our knowledge about these ecosystems. Here, this work reveals the high microbial diversity in the soil and rhizosphere of the Caatinga, with the roots presenting more specialized communities. Bacteria such asBacilli,AlphaproteobacteriaandFirmicutesexcelled in critical functions such as nutrient cycling. Interplant differences suggested the influence of root exudates. The metagenomic study of interactions between microorganisms in the rhizosphere of selected plants revealed microbial biodiversity and contributed to our understanding of nutrient cycling, plant growth and resistance to water stress. In addition, they demonstrate biotechnological potential to address global challenges such as desertification and food security.
LC3 forms functional nanocluster on autophagosome
Authors: Fatihi Saman , Khushalani Deepak M. , Kar Joydipta , Mohan Nitin , Thukral Lipi
Published: December 2024

Autophagosome biogenesis relies on the intricate coordination of proteins and lipids, with LC3B proteins persistently anchored to the double-membraned autophagosomes through a lipid anchor. However, little is known about how LC3B is organized in high concentration, its spatial distribution, and the mechanisms underlying its protein-mediated tethering on membranes. Using molecular dynamics simulations and super-resolution microscopy, we demonstrate that LC3B self-assembles to form higher-order clusters, averaging 150 nm in size. Interestingly, simulations provided cue for LC3B and phosphatidylinositol lipid specificity, and STORM imaging confirmed a clear overlap of LC3B-enriched regions with phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate lipids. Together, LC3B nanoclusters on these lipids form spatially distinct “islands” on the autophagosome. Additionally, molecular analysis of 296 clusters revealed that clustering is driven by a unique rear binding pocket in Loop6 defined by alternating hydrophobic and polar residues. We generated four mutants to disrupt the characteristic self-assembly motif, with all four mutants resulting in aberrant cluster formation and impaired autophagosome motility. These findings highlight that LC3B self-assembly is crucial for autophagy and suggest a spatiotemporal mechanism regulating LC3B function.
Integrating or tailoring? Optimizing touchpoints for enhanced omnichannel customer experience
Authors: Yin Chin-Ching
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To successfully implement omnichannel strategies, companies are required to use physical and online touchpoints effectively. This research aims to explore how consumers interact with various omnichannel touchpoints and identify the positive outcomes for firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the perspective of MRT and UGT, this study developed a comprehensive framework based on hypotheses and employed structural equation modeling to test it in Study 1. To further examine the effects of omnichannel touchpoints on customer experience and shopping behavior intentions, Study 2 used a between-subjects experimental design.

Findings

The results reveal that particular touchpoints positively influence specific dimensions of customer experience, affecting brand attitude, purchase intention and experience sharing. Findings also indicate that product types moderate the relationship between omnichannel touchpoints and customer experience, as well as the relationship between customer experience and brand attitude.

Originality/value

This research enriches interactive marketing literature on customer experience and omnichannel shopping, providing companies seeking omnichannel touchpoint design with solid theoretical insights and empirical evidence.
Linking effect traits of soil fauna to processes of organic matter transformation
Authors: Bonfanti Jonathan , Potapov Anton M. , Angst Gerrit , Ganault Pierre , Briones Maria J. I. , Calderón‐Sanou Irene , Chen Ting‐Wen , Conti Erminia , Degrune Florine , Eisenhauer Nico , Ferlian Olga , Hackenberger Davorka , Hauer Amelie , Hedde Mickaël , Hohberg Karin , Krogh Paul Henning , Mulder Christian , Perez‐Roig Camila , Russell David , Shelef Oren , Zhou Zheng , Zuev Andrey G. , Berg Matty P.
Published: December 2024

Soil organic matter (SOM) transformation processes are regulated by the activities of plants, microbes, and fauna. Compared with plants and microbes, effects of soil fauna are less understood because of their high taxonomic and functional diversity, and mix of direct and indirect effect mechanisms. Trait‐based approaches offer a generic perspective to quantify mechanistic relationships between soil fauna and SOM transformations, including decomposition, translocation, and stabilisation of organic carbon. Yet, at present, we lack a consensus concerning relevant key effect traits of soil fauna (i.e. those affecting ecosystem functioning).

Here, we address this knowledge gap by focusing on relationships between soil fauna effect traits and SOM transformations. Based on existing literature, we identify key processes linked to SOM transformations, and fauna effect traits universally applicable across taxa and soil types, and discuss the process‐trait links.

We define eight SOM transformation processes that are directly affected by soil fauna: (i) litter mass loss, (ii) litter fragmentation, (iii) SOM aggregation in faeces, (iv) SOM aggregation in soil mineral particles, (v) decomposition of faeces, (vi) SOM and mineral translocation, (vii) pore space creation and maintenance and (viii) SOM stabilisation. We link these processes to general effect traits classified into four categories: (a) food selection and ingestion, (b), digestion and excretion, (c) mobility, and (d) body mass and metabolic rate. We also propose proxies when effect trait measurements are laborious.

The proposed links between effect traits and SOM transformation processes need to be validated in targeted experiments. We urge researchers to obtain quantitative experimental data, together with metabolic approaches, to integratively quantify soil fauna contributions to soil functioning.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Spider communities in the aboveground oak forests of central Europe are determined by vertical scale: An important missing link for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Niedobová Jana , Hula Vladimír , Foit Jiří
Published: December 2024

Spiders are generalist predators able to respond very well to environmental conditions. Therefore, they are good bioindicators for forest management practices. The vertical distribution of spiders in forest stands has very rarely been studied. Thus, we investigated patterns in species richness, diversity, life‐history traits and functional diversity of spiders within the aboveground vertical stratification of oak dominated forests and their response to the canopy cover gradient. There were three localities sampled during four growing seasons (2008–2011, Southern Moravia, Czech Republic). Spiders were sampled monthly by flight intercept traps, which were placed in three stratigraphical levels of oak stands. Altogether, 3592 spiders, representing 18 families, and 112 distinguishable species were collected during the study. We found that species richness, total abundance the abundance of ambush hunters, other hunters and scarce, rare and very rare species of spiders increased from ground level to the canopy, and that species composition changed across the vertical gradient. Some of these characteristics were significantly influenced by interaction with canopy cover. Less common ballooning species preferred the ground part of forest stratification. Canopy cover evaluation showed that the abundance of orb web weavers and less common ballooning species was highest in the more closed canopies. The opposite trend was found for sheet web weavers, very abundant species and open habitat species. Space web weavers, other hunters and very common ballooning species showed increased abundance in the higher layers under conditions of more open canopy cover. Our results suggest that sampling spiders across the vertical gradient of forest stands might be important for a proper biodiversity and management practice evaluation, although most recent assessments were conducted on ground‐dwelling spiders obtained from pitfall traps.
Blockchain technology disruptions: Exploring accounting and auditing academics and practitioners' perception
Authors: Oladejo Musbaudeen Titilope , Botes Vida , Low Mary , Reeves Steve
Published: December 2024

This study explores the practical impact of blockchain technology (BCT), which contrasts strongly with literature that has predominantly hypothesised BCT's potential to disrupt accounting practice. We interviewed 44 practitioners and academics with knowledge of BCT across 13 countries and industries. We employed the technological context of the technological, organisation and environmental (TOE) theoretical framework within a constructivist‐interpretivist paradigm to understand any nuanced practical realities of BCT's impact. Our research ascertained an expectation gap regarding the expected BCT impacts on accounting and auditing practices versus the current reality. Our findings support the sceptics and oppose prior enthusiastic claims that BCT disrupts accounting and auditing functions.
Elevated physical activity at school decreased blood pressure in children aged 10–12 years who were overweight and obese
Authors: Ługowska Katarzyna , Krzęcio‐Nieczyporuk Elżbieta , Charuta Anna , Kolanowski Wojciech
Published: December 2024

Aim

We investigated the effect that increased physical activity (PA) sessions had on the blood pressure of school‐aged children who were overweight and obese.

Methods

This Polish pilot, prospective study followed up 148 children from six elementary schools from 10 to 12 years of age. They were divided into two groups, based on parental preferences. The 88 children in the standard group received 4 h of compulsory PA sessions a week, and the 60 in the extended group received 10 h. Their height, body mass and blood pressure were measured and their body mass index (BMI) was calculated.

Results

The mean BMI of the standard group remained at the 92nd percentile and decreased in the extended group, from the 95th to the 85th percentile. Between 10 and 12 years of age, the percentage of prehypertensive and hypertensive children in the standard group increased from 39.7% to 48.5% in children who were overweight and from 50.7% to 56.0% in those who were obese. In the extended group, it decreased from 41.4% to 37.0% in those who were overweight and from 51.5% to 45.0% in those who were obese.

Conclusion

Increasing organised school PA sessions reduced blood pressure and decreased hypertension and obesity in children aged 10–12 years.
From copper‐based alloys to coins—Part I: Metallurgical characterization from complex manufacturing processes of imitation coins dated to the third century CE
Authors: Bodet Alexandre , Pilon Fabien , Arvieu Corinne
Published: December 2024

The evidence for imitation coinage found on the Gallo‐Roman site of Châteaubleau (Seine‐et‐Marne, France) has been attested for several years. Successive excavations and findings related to the production of imitation coins, both struck and cast, have revealed major minting activity during the second half of the third century CE. This paper presents the study of 11 archaeological samples issued from this counterfeiting workshop site, which is today considered the most important in the north‐western provinces of the Roman Empire. These samples, which correspond to different stages in the production chains leading to coins, mainly radiates (antoniniani, double sestertii), were characterized by metallography, energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (EDXRF), scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) and the Vickers hardness test, in order to understand the different manufacturing processes, especially the ‘rod to coin’ one. This project is divided into two parts. The first, which is the subject of this paper, focuses on the chemical and metallurgical study of the archaeological artefacts. This has enabled us to identify and characterize the manufacturing processes thanks to the highly characteristic microstructure of the samples from the rod‐to‐coins process. Some of the cylinders derived from this process were also silvered by plating a foil of silver or silver–copper on a flan of pure copper in order to obtain irregular radiates. As regards fake double sestertii, several manufacturing techniques were identified: direct moulding of coins in stacked terracotta moulds, the casting of flans to strike double sestertius and the cutting of flans from metal plate is also a technique used in Châteaubleau. Characteristic composition and microstructures were also observed in these samples. This paper will be followed by a second focused on two experimental archaeology sessions carried out in order to reproduce the process ‘from rod to coins’ and then to compare the reproduced samples with the archaeological samples.
Phosphoinositide signaling in the nucleus: Impacts on chromatin and transcription regulation
Authors: Hifdi Nesrine , Vaucourt Mathilde , Hnia Karim , Panasyuk Ganna , Vandromme Marie
Published: December 2024

Phosphoinositides also called Polyphosphoinositides (PPIns) are small lipid messengers with established key roles in organelle trafficking and cell signaling in response to physiological and environmental inputs. Besides their well‐described functions in the cytoplasm, accumulating evidences pointed to PPIns involvement in transcription and chromatin regulation. Through the description of previous and recent advances of PPIns implication in transcription, this review highlights key discoveries on how PPIns modulate nuclear factors activity and might impact chromatin to modify gene expression. Finally, we discuss how PPIns nuclear and cytosolic metabolisms work jointly in orchestrating key transduction cascades that end in the nucleus to modulate gene expression.
Predator–Prey Movement Interactions: Jaguars and Peccaries in the Spotlight
Authors: Alegre Vanesa Bejarano , de Faria Oshima Júlia Emi , Kanda Claudia Zukeran , Jorge Maria Luisa S. P. , Keuroghlian Alexine , Morato Ronaldo G. , Ribeiro Milton Cezar , Börger Luca
Published: December 2024

Understanding how landscape structure influences predator–prey dynamics is critical for conservation. This study analyzed jaguar‐peccary interactions, revealing uncommon close distances and prevalent 3–5 km ranges, especially away from grasslands. Low peccary densities increased interactions. Findings inform conservation strategies, highlighting landscape structure and prey density roles in maintaining Pantanal's balance.
Review: Systematic review and meta‐analysis – financial incentives increase engagement with parenting programs for disruptive behavior problems
Authors: Hodson Nathan , Majid Madiha , James Richard , Graham Eileen K. , Mroczek Daniel K. , Beidas Rinad S.
Published: December 2024

Background

To evaluate the effect of financial incentives on engagement in parenting programs for disruptive behavior disorders, as well as effect on child behavior. As a secondary aim, demographic differences were investigated as effect modifiers.

Methods

We searched PubMed, CINAHL, Sociological Abstracts, Cochrane Trials, and PsycINFO for randomized controlled trials and quasi experimental studies offering parents a financial incentive for engagement with parenting programs targeting disruptive behavior in children aged under 18, vs no incentive. Engagement in each group was evaluated at four stages: connection, attendance, participation, and enaction. Per protocol (CRD42022336210) random effects meta‐analysis was conducted using Stata‐16. Meta‐analyses of binary data used a log odds ratio and continuous data was standardized using Hedges' g.

Results

We identified 2438 papers and screened 35 at full length. We included eight independent cohorts from seven papers. Parents invited to incentive arms were more likely to complete a threshold of sessions than parents invited to control arms (odds ratio 2.51 95% CI 1.42–4.48). Parents were more likely to agree to participate when they knew they were joining the incentive program (odds ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.20–1.65) and parents in the incentive group were more likely than parents in the control group to reach a completion threshold of sessions (odds ratio 1.76 95% CI 1.17–2.66).

Conclusion

Incentives increase parenting programs engagement among parents who are invited and among parents who have begun attending programs. Incentives are an effective potential tool for increasing engagement but further research is needed to establish acceptability and optimal design.
Evaluation of Exomass‐Related Artefacts Caused by Dental Implants of Different Materials in Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography Scans: An Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Oliveira Matheus L. , Dagassan‐Berndt Dorothea , Sampaio‐Oliveira Matheus , Simonek Michelle , Kühl Sebastian , Bornstein Michael M.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the influence of different dental implant materials within the exomass on the image quality in cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Material and Methods

Five pig jaws were scanned using four CBCT devices, first without any dental implants, followed by scans with three dental implants of the same material—pure titanium, titanium‐zirconium alloy, and zirconium dioxide. Two fields of view (FOVs) were used for each device to position the implants in the exomass of a small FOV and within a large FOV. Voxel values were obtained from tubes containing a radiopaque solution to calculate mean voxel value (MVV), voxel value inhomogeneity (VVI), and image noise (IN), which were compared across implant materials and FOVs using repeated measures analysis of variance (α = 0.05). Three observers independently scored image quality using a 5‐point scale.

Results

In general, MVV remained unaffected, except for a significant increase in the X800 device when titanium or titanium‐zirconium alloy implants were in the exomass of a small FOV (p ≤ 0.05). A trend of increased VVI was observed when implants were in the exomass of a small FOV, with a greater effect for zirconium dioxide, followed by titanium‐zirconium alloy and titanium. IN was higher when implants were in the exomass, especially for zirconium dioxide implants (p ≤ 0.05). Image quality perception was consistent overall, though zirconium dioxide implants in both FOVs resulted in diminished quality.

Conclusions

The presence of implants in the exomass can negatively affect CBCT image quality, with zirconium dioxide having the greatest impact.
Mapping ecological corridors in the Upper Paraguay River Basin, Brazil: Applications for sustainability, public policy and decision‐making
Authors: da Rosa Oliveira Maxwell , Fernando Adriana Maria Espinoza , Camilo André Restel , Pereira Guellity Marcel Fonseca , da Silva Thaishi Leonardo , Tomas Walfrido Moraes
Published: December 2024

The Upper Paraguay Basin (BAP) is one of the largest river basins in South America, covering three countries: Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay. In Brazil, one of the main risks to BAP conservation is the loss of native vegetation. In the floodplain region of the BAP, more than 13% of native vegetation was converted, while in the surrounding highlands the loss of native vegetation reached over 61% of the area. These values tend to increase, highlighting the importance of territorial planning for sustainable development in the region. In this sense, we mapped the ecological corridors in the Upper Paraguay Basin, in Brazil, to support conservation strategies focused on maintaining connectivity on a regional scale. To achieve this, we use the Least Cost Path and Circuitscape methods, based on a multispecies approach. As a result, we identified 303 fragments of native vegetation or conservation units that can be considered nodes and 859 ecological corridors. Of all the ecological corridors identified, around 288 were lost in just 3 years, due to the conversion of native vegetation. In general, our results were an extensive network of corridors, which can be applied in UPRB territorial planning, aiming to reduce the impacts of loss of connectivity in the region. Our results highlight the importance of territorial planning and quick and effective decision‐making to mitigate the effects of native vegetation loss for biodiversity conservation in the UPRB.
Willingness to protect bird species depends on individual respondents' demographic and species traits
Authors: Randler Christoph , Koch Sophia
Published: December 2024

Willingness to donate and to protect (WTP) is an important part of worldwide nature conservation, and animals can be used as flagships for establishing conservation measures and collecting donations. We here focus on 141 German bird species to address factors that impact WTP by using a survey on the individual respondent level. Further, another analysis assessed traits on the species level. A total of 1003 respondents participated in the survey. Results of an analysis of covariance suggest that, at the level of the individual, subjective cuteness rating, coloration, species knowledge, and age positively influenced WTP. On the species trait level based on the 141 species, cuteness, coloration, and internet salience were positively related to WTP, and presence at feeders, eBird entries, and global abundance were negatively related to WTP. This is one of the first studies based on a large number of bird species from Europe and it can inform regional nongovernmental organizations for selecting charismatic species for conservation communications. Moreover, this study consequently addresses cuteness in birds as an important factor.
University Learners' Readiness for ChatGPT‐Assisted English Learning: Scale Development and Validation
Authors: Luo Shuqiong , Zou Di
Published: December 2024

Recent AI‐based language learning research highlights learners' crucial role, yet university learner readiness in ChatGPT‐based English learning remains unexplored. Accordingly, this current research attempted to develop and validate a tool to evaluate university learner readiness for ChatGPT‐assisted English learning (LRCEL) to address the research gap that the prior instruments for language learners' readiness have not taken into account the features and characteristics of ChatGPT in language teaching and learning as well as students' achievement emotions. Three hundred and forty‐seven Chinese university learners participated to help explore and confirm the constructs of the LRCEL. Guided by the theory of planned behaviour and the control‐value theory of achievement emotions, results of first‐order and second‐order confirmatory factor analysis, exploratory structural equation modelling, convergent validity and discriminant validity supported an 18‐item questionnaire comprising seven dimensions. The LRCEL has been proven valid and reliable, enabling educational educators to understand university learners' readiness for ChatGPT‐supported English learning with domain‐specific items.