bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The stage-specific regulation imposed by Importinβ-1 on HIV-1 propagation and infectivity dynamics
Authors: Yandrapally Sriram , Sarkar Satarupa , Saxena Shalini , Naik Venkateshwarlu , Rapole Srikanth , Banerjee Sharmistha
Published: June 2024

Dynamics of intra-host molecular evolution of viruses depend on the complexities of the cellular environments through which they transit. HIV infects several cell types in an infected human host, especially during chronic stages, which impose differential regulations on HIV persistence, driving it to latency, rapid propagation, or abortive infection. We observed that HIV-1 emerging from different cell-types differ in their encapsidated protein cargo, and infectivity. We investigated the role of Importinβ-1, which is encapsidated in virus emerging from CD4+T lymphocytes, but not in viruses from astrocytes. We deciphered that Importinβ-1 is packaged via interactions with HIV-1 Gag/Capsid. The encapsidated Importinβ-1 assisted nuclear-entry of the viral core and enhanced the infectivity during pre-integration stages. Conversely, high levels of endogenous Importinβ-1, which was observed to be induced upon infection and inflammatory stimulations, such as, IFNg/LPS treatments, restricted LTR-driven viral transcription during post-integration. The regulatory impact of Importinβ-1 was verified using primary CD4+T lymphocytes, thereby validating a non-canonical and novel role of Importinβ-1 as a restriction factor for HIV-1. Using deletion mutants, we demonstrate that the N-terminal domain of Importinβ-1 regulated viral transcription via SP1, and NRE regions of LTR. We propose that sequestering of Importinβ-1 by packaging in emerging virions thereby reducing its antiviral impact, is an adaptive strategy of a pathogen, supporting the concepts of evolutionary conflicts between viruses and hosts.
M1 Large-scale Network Dynamics Support Human Motor Resonance and Its Plastic Reshaping
Authors: Guidali Giacomo , Arrigoni Eleonora , Bolognini Nadia , Pisoni Alberto
Published: June 2024

Motor resonance – the activation of the observer’s motor system when viewing others’ actions – grounds the intertwined nature of action perception and execution, with profound implications for social cognition and action understanding. Despite extensive research, the neural underpinnings supporting motor resonance emergence and rewriting remain unexplored.

In this study, we investigated the role of sensorimotor associative learning in motor resonance neural mechanisms. To this aim, we applied cross-systems paired associative stimulation (PAS) to induce novel visuomotor associations in the human brain. This protocol, which repeatedly pairs transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) pulses over the primary motor cortex (M1) with visual stimuli of actions, drives the emergence of an atypical, PAS-conditioned motor resonance response. Using TMS and electroencephalography (EEG) co-registration during action observation, we tracked the M1 functional connectivity profile during this process to map the inter-areal connectivity profiles associated with typical and PAS-induced motor resonance phenomena.

Besides confirming, at the corticospinal level, the emergence of newly acquired motor resonance responses at the cost of typical ones after PAS administration, our results reveal dissociable aspects of motor resonance in M1 interregional communication. On the one side, typical motor resonance effects acquired through the lifespan are associated with prominent M1 alpha-band and reduced beta-band connectivity, which might facilitate the corticospinal output while integrating visuomotor information. Conversely, the atypical PAS-induced motor resonance is linked to M1 beta-band cortical connectivity modulations, only partially overlapping with interregional communication patterns related to the typical mirroring responses. This evidence suggests that beta-phase synchronization may be the critical mechanism supporting the formation of motor resonance by coordinating the activity of motor regions during action observation, which also involves alpha-band top-down control of frontal areas.

These findings provide new insights into the neural dynamics underlying (typical and newly acquired) motor resonance, highlighting the role of large-scale interregional communication in sensorimotor associative learning within the action observation network.
Regeneration ofLumbriculus variegatusrequires post-amputation production of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Beinart Freya R. , Gillen Kathy
Published: June 2024

Animals vary in their ability to replace body parts lost to injury, a phenomenon known as restorative regeneration. Uncovering conserved signaling steps required for regeneration may aid regenerative medicine. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are necessary for proper regeneration in species across a wide range of taxa, but it is unknown whether ROS are essential for annelid regeneration. Since annelids are a widely used and excellent model for regeneration, we sought to determine whether ROS play a role in the regeneration of the highly regenerative annelid,Lumbriculus variegatus. Using a ROS-sensitive fluorescent probe we observed ROS accumulation at the wound site within 15 minutes after amputation; this ROS burst lessened by 6 hours post amputation. Chemical inhibition of this ROS burst delayed regeneration, an impairment that was partially rescued with exogenous ROS. Our results suggest that similar to other animals, annelid regeneration depends upon ROS signaling, implying a phylogenetically ancient requirement for ROS in regeneration.
Human sensory-like neuron cultivation – an optimized protocol
Authors: Schottmann Nicole Michelle , Grüner Julia , Bär Frederik , Karl-Schöller Franziska , Oerter Sabrina , Üçeyler Nurcan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Reprogramming of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and their differentiation into specific cell types, such as induced sensory-like neurons (iSN), are critical for disease modeling and drug testing. However, the variability of cell populations challenges reliability and reproducibility. While various protocols for iSN differentiation exist, development of non-iSN cells in these cultures remains an issue. Therefore, standardization of protocols is essential. This study aimed to improve iSN culture conditions by reducing the number of non-iSN cells while preserving survival and quality of iSN.

Methods

iSN were differentiated from a healthy control iPSC line using an established protocol. Interventions for protocol optimization included floxuridine (FdU) or 1-β-D-arabinofuranosyl-cytosin-hydrochlorid (AraC) treatment, Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS), early cell passaging, and replating. Cell viability and iSN-to-total-cell-count ratio were assessed using a luminescent assay and immunocytochemistry, respectively.

Results

Passaging of cells during differentiation did not increase the iSN-to-total-cell-count ratio, and MACS of immature iSN led to neuronal blebbing and reduced the iSN-to-total-cell-count ratio. Treatment with high concentrations and prolonged incubation of FdU or AraC resulted in excessive cell death. However, treatment with 10 μM FdU for 24 h post-differentiation showed the most selective targeting of non-iSN cells, leading to an increase in the iSN-to-total-cell count ratio without compromising the viability or functionality of the iSN population. Replating of iSN shortly after seeding also helped to reduce non-iSN cells.

Conclusion

In direct comparison to other methods, treatment with 10 μM FdU for 24 h after differentiation represents a promising approach to improve iSN culture purity, offering a potential benefit for downstream applications in disease modeling and drug discovery. However, further investigations involving multiple iPSC lines and optimization of protocol parameters are warranted to fully exploit the potential of this method and enhance its reproducibility and applicability. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into optimizing culture conditions for iSN differentiation and highlights the importance of standardized protocols in iPSC-based research.
Communication subspace dynamics of the canonical olfactory pathway
Authors: González Joaquín , Torterolo Pablo , Bolding Kevin A. , Tort Adriano BL
Published: June 2024

Understanding how different brain areas communicate is crucial for elucidating the mechanisms underlying cognition. A possible way for neural populations to interact is through a communication subspace, a specific region in the state-space enabling the transmission of behaviorally-relevant spiking patterns. In the olfactory system, it remains unclear if different populations employ such a mechanism. Our study reveals that neuronal ensembles in the main olfactory pathway (olfactory bulb to olfactory cortex) interact through a communication subspace, which is driven by nasal respiration and allows feedforward and feedback transmission to occur segregated along the sniffing cycle. Moreover, our results demonstrate that subspace communication depends causally on the activity of both areas, is hindered during anesthesia, and transmits a low-dimensional representation of odor.
Genome-wide association study for age-related hearing loss in CFW mice
Authors: Polesskaya Oksana , Boussaty Ely , Cheng Riyan , Lamonte Olivia , Zhou Thomas , Du Eric , Sanches Thiago Missfeldt , Nguyen Khai-Minh , Okamoto Mika , Palmer Abraham A , Friedman Rick
Published: June 2024

Age-related hearing impairment is the most common cause of hearing loss and is one of the most prevalent conditions affecting the elderly globally. It is influenced by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The mouse and human inner ears are functionally and genetically homologous. Investigating the genetic basis of age-related hearing loss (ARHL) in an outbred mouse model may lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of this condition. We used Carworth Farms White (CFW) outbred mice, because they are genetically diverse and exhibit variation in the onset and severity of ARHL. The goal of this study was to identify genetic loci involved in regulating ARHL. Hearing at a range of frequencies was measured using Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) thresholds in 946 male and female CFW mice at the age of 1, 6, and 10 months.

We obtained genotypes at 4.18 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) using low-coverage (mean coverage 0.27x) whole-genome sequencing followed by imputation using STITCH. To determine the accuracy of the genotypes we sequenced 8 samples at >30x coverage and used calls from those samples to estimate the discordance rate, which was 0.45%. We performed genetic analysis for the ABR thresholds for each frequency at each age, and for the time of onset of deafness for each frequency. The SNP heritability ranged from 0 to 42% for different traits. Genome-wide association analysis identified several regions associated with ARHL that contained potential candidate genes, includingDnah11,Rapgef5,Cpne4,Prkag2, andNek11. We confirmed, using functional study, that Prkag2 deficiency causes age-related hearing loss at high frequency in mice; this makesPrkag2a candidate gene for further studies. This work helps to identify genetic risk factors for ARHL and to define novel therapeutic targets for the treatment and prevention of ARHL.
Curcumin Inhibition of DYRK Kinases
Authors: Menezes Filipe , Grygier Przemyslaw , Pustelny Katarzyna , Popowicz Grzegorz M. , Czarna Anna
Published: June 2024

Curcumin is known as a dietary supplement with several health benefits, including antioxidant, blood sugar-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. These benefits make it useful in the treatment of diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. This research focuses on how curcumin interacts with dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinases (DYRKs), particularly DYRK1A and DYRK2, which control important cellular processes such as protein breakdown, gene activity and DNA packaging. DYRK1A is crucial for the growth and survival of pancreatic β-cells, which are key in the treatment of diabetes. Curcumin helps increase insulin release and sensitivity by affecting these cells. DYRK2, on the other hand, is involved in cancer, where curcumin’s ability to block its activity helps to reduce tumour growth and spread. These interactions demonstrate curcumin’s potential as a versatile treatment option. By affecting DYRK1A and DYRK2, curcumin promotes β-cell health in diabetes and fights cancer by inhibiting cell growth and promoting cell death. This study underscores the promise of curcumin as a natural compound for treating complex diseases associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, highlighting the need for a better understanding of DYRK kinases to effectively exploit their role in disease processes and cell signalling.
Enhancing Retromer Complex Stability Ameliorates Synaptic Dysfunction in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ramonet David , Daerr Anna , Hallbeck Martin
Published: June 2024

Synaptic dysfunction is an early hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, characterized by the disruption of synaptic transmission and plasticity. Central to these processes is endosomal trafficking, mediated by the retromer complex, which orchestrates the movement of vesicle contents for recycling to the plasma membrane, return to the Golgi, or degradation. Variants of VPS35, the cargo recognition component of the retromer complex, have been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PARK17, D620N mutation) and Alzheimer’s disease (L625P mutation). While substantial research has focused on Parkinson’s, the role of VPS35 in Alzheimer’s has been less explored. This study investigates the acute neuroprotective effects of retromer-stabilizing compounds in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s. Our results reveal that stabilization of the retromer complex not only mitigates pathogenic Aβ production mechanisms but also compensates for early synaptic dysfunction and microglial activation. Specifically, we observed significant modulation of genes involved in long-term potentiation and a reduction in abnormal retromer-associated cargos. These findings highlight the potential of retromer stabilisation as atherapeutic strategy to address fundamental pathological pathological processes in Alzheimer’s disease.
TMEM106B C-terminal fragments aggregate and drive neurodegenerative proteinopathy
Authors: Riordan Ruben , Saxton Aleen , McMillan Pamela J. , Kow Rebecca L , Liachko Nicole F. , Kraemer Brian C.
Published: June 2024

Genetic variation in the lysosomal and transmembrane protein 106B (TMEM106B) modifies risk for a diverse range of neurodegenerative disorders, especially frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) with progranulin (PGRN) haplo-insufficiency, although the molecular mechanisms involved are not yet understood. Through advances in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), homotypic aggregates of the C-Terminal domain of TMEM106B (TMEM CT) were discovered as a previously unidentified cytosolic proteinopathy in the brains of FTLD, Alzheimer’s disease, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) patients. While it remains unknown what role TMEM CT aggregation plays in neuronal loss, its presence across a range of aging related dementia disorders indicates involvement in multi-proteinopathy driven neurodegeneration. To determine the TMEM CT aggregation propensity and neurodegenerative potential, we characterized a novel transgenicC. elegansmodel expressing the human TMEM CT fragment constituting the fibrillar core seen in FTLD cases. We found that pan-neuronal expression of human TMEM CT inC. eleganscauses neuronal dysfunction as evidenced by behavioral analysis. Cytosolic aggregation of TMEM CT proteins accompanied the behavioral dysfunction driving neurodegeneration, as illustrated by loss of GABAergic neurons. To investigate the molecular mechanisms driving TMEM106B proteinopathy, we explored the impact of PGRN loss on the neurodegenerative effect of TMEM CT expression. To this end, we generated TMEM CT expressingC. eleganswith loss ofpgrn-1, theC. elegansortholog of human PGRN. Neither full nor partial loss ofpgrn-1altered the motor phenotype of our TMEM CT model suggesting TMEM CT aggregation occurs downstream of PGRN loss of function. We also tested the ability of genetic suppressors of tauopathy to rescue TMEM CT pathology. We found that genetic knockout ofspop-1, sut-2,andsut-6resulted in weak to no rescue of proteinopathy phenotypes, indicating that the mechanistic drivers of TMEM106B proteinopathy may be distinct from tauopathy. Taken together, our data demonstrate that TMEM CT aggregation can kill neurons. Further, expression of TMEM CT inC. elegansneurons provides a useful model for the functional characterization of TMEM106B proteinopathy in neurodegenerative disease.
The maturation of infant and toddler visual cortex neural activity and associations with fine motor performance
Authors: Otten Katharina , Edgar J. Christopher , Green Heather L. , Mol Kylie , McNamee Marybeth , Kuschner Emily S. , Kim Mina , Liu Song , Huang Hao , Nordt Marisa , Konrad Kerstin , Chen Yuhan
Published: June 2024

Our understanding of how visual cortex neural processes mature during infancy and toddlerhood is limited. Using magnetoencephalography (MEG), the present study investigated the development of visual evoked responses (VERs) in both cross-sectional and longitudinal samples of infants and toddlers 2 months to 3 years. Brain space analyses focused on N1m and P1m latency, as well as the N1m-to-P1m amplitude. Associations between VER measures and developmental quotient (DQ) scores in the cognitive/visual and fine motor domains were also examined. Results showed a nonlinear decrease in N1m and P1m latency as a function of age, characterized by rapid changes followed by slower progression, with the N1m latency plateauing at 6-7 months and the P1m latency plateauing at 8-9 months. The N1m-to-P1m amplitude also exhibited a non-linear decrease, with strong responses observed in younger infants (∼2-3 months) and then a gradual decline. Associations between N1m and P1m latency and fine motor DQ scores were observed, suggesting that infants with faster visual processing may be better equipped to perform fine motor tasks. The present findings advance our understanding of the maturation of the infant visual system and highlight the relationship between the maturation of visual system and fine motor skills.

Highlights

The infant N1m and P1m latency shows a nonlinear decrease.

N1m latency decreases precede P1m latency decreases.

N1m-to-P1m amplitude shows a nonlinear decrease, with stronger responses in younger than older infants.

N1m and P1m latency are associated with fine motor DQ.
Glial metabolism versatility regulates mushroom body–driven behavioral output inDrosophila
Authors: Basu Ruchira , Preat Thomas , Plaçais Pierre-Yves
Published: June 2024

Providing metabolic support to neurons is now recognized as a major function of glial cells that is conserved from invertebrates to vertebrates. However, research in this field has focused for more than two decades on the relevance of lactate and glial glycolysis for neuronal energy metabolism, while overlooking many other facets of glial metabolism and their impact on neuronal physiology, circuit activity, and behavior. Here, we review recent work that has unveiled new features of glial metabolism, especially inDrosophila, in the modulation of behavioral traits involving the mushroom bodies (MBs). These recent findings reveal that spatially and biochemically distinct modes of glucose-derived neuronal fueling are implemented within the MB in a memory type–specific manner. In addition, cortex glia are endowed with several antioxidant functions, whereas astrocytes can serve as pro-oxidant agents that are beneficial to redox signaling underlying long-term memory. Finally, glial fatty acid oxidation seems to play a dual fail-safe role: first, as a mode of energy production upon glucose shortage, and, second, as a factor underlying the clearance of excessive oxidative load during sleep. Altogether, these integrated studies performed inDrosophilaindicate that glial metabolism has a deterministic role on behavior.
Weak ergodicity breaking transition in a randomly constrained model
Authors: Deger Aydin , Lazarides Achilleas
Published: June 2024

Experiments in Rydberg atoms have recently found unusually slow decay from a small number of special initial states. We investigate the robustness of such long-lived states (LLS) by studying an ensemble of locally constrained random systems with tunable range μ. Upon varying μ, we find a transition between thermal and weakly nonergodic (supporting a finite number of LLS) phases. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the LLS observed in the experiments disappear upon the addition of small perturbations so that the transition reported here is distinct from known ones. We then show that the LLS dynamics explores only part of the accessible Hilbert space, thus corresponding to localization in Hilbert space.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effective potential of composite operators in the first order region of the QCD phase transition
Authors: Zheng Hui-wen , Lu Yi , Gao Fei , Qin Si-xue , Liu Yu-xin
Published: June 2024

We propose a method to determine the effective potential of QCD from the gap equation by introducing the homotopy method between the solutions of the equation of motion. Via this method, the effective potential beyond the bare vertex approximation is obtained, which then generalizes the Cornwall-Jackiw-Tomboulis effective potential for the bilocal composite operators. Moreover, the extended effective potential is set to be a function of self-energy instead of the propagator, which is the key point for the potential to be bounded from below. We then investigate the extended effective potential in the cases of phase transition of the QCD vacuum with a small current quark mass, the first order phase transition of QCD at finite temperature, and high baryon chemical potential. In the former case, the effective potential shows as an inflection point at the critical mass where the multiple solutions of the Dyson-Schwinger equation (DSE) vanishes, which is consistent with that obtained by solving the DSE directly. For the latter case, the in-medium properties, such as the latent heat and the difference of trace anomaly, of QCD is obtained.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Study of nonstandard interactions mediated by a scalar field at the ESSnuSB experiment
Authors: Aguilar J. , Anastasopoulos M. , Baussan E. , Bhattacharyya A. K. , Bignami A. , Blennow M. , Bogomilov M. , Bolling B. , Bouquerel E. , Bramati F. , Branca A. , Brorsson W. , Brunetti G. , Bustinduy I. , Carlile C. J. , Cederkall J. , Choi T. W. , Choubey S. , Christiansen P. , Collins M. , Cristaldo Morales E. , Danared H. , Dancila D. , de André J. P. A. M. , Dracos M. , Efthymiopoulos I. , Ekelöf T. , Eshraqi M. , Fanourakis G. , Farricker A. , Fasoula E. , Fukuda T. , Gazis N. , Geralis Th. , Ghosh M. , Giarnetti A. , Gokbulut G. , Hagner C. , Halić L. , Hariharan V. T. , Iversen K. E. , Jenssen M. , Johansson R. , Kasimi E. , Kayis Topaksu A. , Kildetof B. , Kliček B. , Kordas K. , Leisos A. , Lindroos M. , Longhin A. , Maiano C. , Marangoni S. , Marrelli C. , Martins C. , Meloni D. , Mezzetto M. , Milas N. , Muñoz J. L. , Oglakci M. , Ohlsson T. , Olvegård M. , Pari M. , Patrzalek D. , Petkov G. , Petridou Ch. , Poussot P. , Psallidas A. , Pupilli F. , Raikwal D. , Saiang D. , Sampsonidis D. , Schwab C. , Sordo F. , Sosa A. , Stavropoulos G. , Stipčević M. , Tarkeshian R. , Terranova F. , Tolba T. , Trachanas E. , Tsenov R. , Tsirigotis A. , Tzamarias S. E. , Vankova-Kirilova G. , Vassilopoulos N. , Vihonen S. , Wurtz J. , Zeter V. , Zormpa O. , Zou Y. ,   ESSnuSB Collaboration
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study scalar mediator induced nonstandard interactions (SNSIs) in the context of the ESSnuSB experiment. In particular, we study the capability of ESSnuSB to put bounds on the SNSI parameters and also study the impact of SNSIs in the measurement of the leptonic CP phase δCP. Existence of SNSIs modifies the neutrino mass matrix and this modification can be expressed in terms of three diagonal real parameters (ηee, ημμ, and ηττ) and three off-diagonal complex parameters (ηeμ, ηeτ, and ημτ). Our study shows that the upper bounds on the parameters ημμ and ηττ depend upon how Δm312 is minimized in the theory. However, this is not the case when one tries to measure the impact of SNSIs on δCP. Further, we show that the CP sensitivity of ESSnuSB can be completely lost for certain values of ηee and ημτ for which the appearance channel probability becomes independent of δCP.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
New infinite class of
6d
,
N=(1,0)
supergravities
Authors: Loges Gregory J.
Published: June 2024

We present a new infinite class of non-Abelian, 6d supergravities with eight supercharges. These theories not only satisfy all known low-energy consistency conditions, such as being free of anomalies, but also evade the constraints arising from the consistency of string probes, even after assuming completeness of the Bogomol’nyi–Prasad–Sommerfield (BPS) spectrum. This demonstrates that some additional UV input or hitherto unknown IR condition is needed in order to be left with a finite landscape, as is generally anticipated from a theory of quantum gravity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Triacetonitrile(1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane)cobalt(II) bis(tetraphenylborate)
Authors: Shin Jeongcheol , Kim Jin , Choi Jonghoon
Published: June 2024

The title cobalt(II) complex, [Co(C2H3N)3(C9H21N3)](C24H20B)2 or [(tacn)Co(NCMe)3][BPh4]2, has been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. It incorporates the well-known macrocyclic tacn (1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane) ligand, which is coordinated facially to the metal center. The complex crystallizes in space group P21/c with Z = 4. The divalent cobalt ion exhibits a six-coordinate octahedral geometry by one tacn and three acetonitrile ligands. Two non-coordinating tetraphenylborate (BPh4
−) anions are also present.
Economic cybercrime in the diaspora: case of Ghanaian nationals in the USA
Authors: Abubakari Yushawu , Amponsah Awurafua Amponsaa
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to delve into economic cybercrime within the African diaspora, with a specific focus on Ghanaian nationals residing in the USA. It aims to shed light on the nuanced and unique approaches that diasporic actors adopt to execute economic cybercrimes, especially online frauds.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on press releases and official indictments collected from the U.S. Department of Justice, the study adopted content analysis. Through this approach, the study outlines its findings

Findings

The analysis reveals patterns in economic cybercrimes among Ghanaians abroad. Notably, the findings suggest that diasporic individuals often work with local accomplices to perpetrate various economic cybercrimes, with money laundering being particularly prevalent among those living outside their home country. This underscores the profound influence of geographical location on the choice of cybercriminal activities. Moreover, the research reveals that diasporic actors use several tactics, including adopting false identities to interact with victims and the creation of sham companies for laundering money. Additionally, demographic characteristics such as age and gender seem to significantly influence the involvement of diasporic individuals in economic cybercrimes.

Research limitations/implications

The research was primarily based on press releases and official indictments within the USA. Although these sources offer substantial insight into the rise of cybercrime among Ghanaian diaspora members, their focus on specific data types and geographical regions might constrain our comprehension of the nuances of this phenomenon, particularly across various diasporic groups and regions. Hence, future research could enhance our understanding by conducting fieldwork, not just in the USA but also in other areas using primary data to delve deeper into the issue of cybercrime within the diaspora.

Practical implications

The study’s findings have implications for individuals, organizations and policymakers alike. By understanding the strategies of economic cybercrime offenders, as demonstrated in this research, individuals can be better equipped to navigate digital technologies for both personal and business purposes. Moreover, policymakers and government agencies can use these insights to develop policies aimed at mitigating the spread of economic cybercrimes, particularly within diasporic communities.

Originality/value

The paper stands out for its innovative approach and scope. While numerous studies have explored cybercrime activities, the prevalence among diasporic actors remains underexamined. Through its methodology and scope, this paper opens avenues for further research into the phenomenon of cybercrime within diasporic communities.
Social relationships in performing arts entrepreneurship
Authors: Wójcik Dagmara , Czernek-Marszałek Katarzyna
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to present the importance of social relationships in cooperation among theaters in the creation of three types of values that characterize arts entrepreneurship (i.e. artistic, economic and social).

Design/methodology/approach

The findings are based on qualitative research with the use of 50 semi-structured interviews conducted with 57 representatives of public and private theaters in the performing arts sector in Poland.

Findings

The research shows how social relationships among cooperating representatives of theaters are used to create three types of values that characterize performing arts entrepreneurship (i.e. artistic, economic and social). The findings reveal that theater representatives take advantage of social relationships and engage in inter-organizational cooperation in introducing various changes in their institutions. Thus, by fostering innovation, risk-taking and searching for new opportunities they adapt to the dynamic environment. The paper shows how the three groups of values of performing arts entrepreneurship are interrelated but also sometimes conflicted with one another.

Research limitations/implications

The research is not representative as it presents the context of the analyzed theaters in Poland.

Originality/value

Entrepreneurship, although a popular subject of research, has been much less frequently analyzed with regard to the creative industries, such as the performing arts. In the field of management, researchers have focused primarily on business organization entrepreneurship, excluding cultural and arts institutions such as theaters. In this context, so-called arts entrepreneurship has not yet been widely recognized. In particular, there is a lack of research showing how social relationships between cooperating partners are used in the creation of three types of values in performing arts entrepreneurship, i.e. artistic, economic and social. The article fills this gap and presents both a scientific as well as an applicative contribution.
The rise of the distributed workforce: strategic HR’s role in optimising hybrid and remote models
Authors: Tenakwah Emmanuel Senior , Otchere-Ankrah Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the critical role of strategic HR in helping organisations optimise hybrid and remote work to seise the opportunities of the distributed workforce that has evolved in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper combines industry figures, academic studies and emerging HR best practices to illustrate integrated strategies for how strategic HR can develop with the distributed workforce.

Findings

Organisations that implement holistically integrated HR strategies for the distributed workforce are best suited to attract, engage and retain talent, no matter where employees are located. Strategic HR helps organisations succeed in areas such as facilitating virtual collaboration, designing successful workplace experiences, expanding their talent markets and developing new leadership skills and values for geographically dispersed teams.

Originality/value

This paper provides a novel approach to the concept of work and the role of strategic HR in the redesign of it. This paper introduces novel concepts and actionable theory for reaching the change to these newly disparate models that will affect the design of the workplace for years to come.
A serial mediation model for investigating the intention to use algorithmic trading platforms among retail investors in India
Authors: Bunkar Bhumika , Ramaiah Kasilingam
Published: June 2024

Purpose

In developing nations, the utility and intention to use algorithmic trading (AT) platforms and financial services are predominantly reliant on investors’ technological knowledge. This study aims to investigate the effect of investor awareness of AT (AAT), trust in AT (TAT), and acceptance of innovativeness (AOI) on intention to use the AT (IUAT) platforms among Indian investors.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a structured questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale to collect the data from 392 Indian retail investors through a purposeful sampling approach. And, the authors carried out structural equation modeling to analyze the serial mediation among the latent (independent) and observed (dependent) variables.

Findings

The findings suggest that investor awareness exerts a statistically significant and positive effect on the IUAT platforms. Additionally, TAT platforms and innovation acceptance, independently as well as mediator, significantly influences the usage decision of AT platforms among Indian investors.

Research limitations/implications

The findings on determinants of AT platform usage can guide investment regulators to promote technological awareness, build trust, and provide a safe algorithmic trading environment for retail investors in India. The suggestions may take the edge off a few behavioural impediments among the investors w.r.t. AT platform usage.

Originality/value

Off the back of extensive literary exploration our field research is among the first that probes an intellectual discourse and documents the empirical evidence on linkages between investor AAT, TAT, AOI and the IUAT platforms in the Indian stock market.
Extraperitoneal sigmoidopexy versus sigmoidectomy for sigmoid volvulus: A prospective comparative study
Authors: Ibrahim Mostafa , Raafat Mohamad
Published: June 2024

Aim

Extraperitoneal sigmoidopexy is a simple, safe and effective non‐resective procedure with minimal morbidity and mortality rates.

Patients and Methods

This prospective comparative study involved 105 patients with uncomplicated sigmoid volvulus at Asyut University Hospitals, Egypt, from June 2021 to January 2023. The study population was divided into two groups: Group A, which underwent extraperitoneal sigmoidopexy, and Group B, which was treated with sigmoidectomy and primary anastomosis.

Results

The study included 105 cases. A total of 56 (53.4%) patients underwent extraperitoneal sigmoidopexy (Group A) and 49 (46.6%) patients underwent sigmoidectomy (Group B). The mean age was 61.33 (standard deviation [SD] 1.65) for Group A and 67.9 (SD 1.69) for Group B (P = .36). The mean operative time (minutes) was 62.25 (SD 1.38) for Group A and 87.60 (SD 2.38) for Group B (P < .0001). The mean hospital stay (days) was 6.25 (SD 0.29) for Group A and 9.04 (SD 0.34) for Group B (P < .0001). There was a significant difference in overall morbidity and recurrence rate, while no significant difference was observed in intensive care unit admission, additional surgery and mortality between the two groups.

Conclusion

Extraperitoneal sigmoidopexy emerges as a simple, safe and effective treatment option for non‐complicated sigmoid volvulus. Despite a higher recurrence rate, it demonstrates lower morbidity and mortality compared with sigmoidectomy.
The role of the plant microbiome for forestry, agriculture and urban greenspace in times of environmental change
Authors: Brüssow Felix , Bruessow Friederike , Brüssow Harald
Published: June 2024

This Lilliput article provides a literature overview on ecological effects of the plant microbiome with a focus on practical application in forestry, agriculture and urban greenspace under the spectre of climate change. After an overview of the mostly bacterial microbiome of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, worldwide data from forests reveal ecological differentiation with respect to major guilds of predominantly fungal plant root symbionts. The plant‐microbiome association forms a new holobiont, an integrated unit for ecological adaptation and evolutionary selection. Researchers explored the impact of the microbiome on the capacity of plants to adapt to changing climate conditions. They investigated the impact of the microbiome in reforestation programs, after wildfire, drought, salination and pollution events in forestry, grasslands and agriculture. With increasing temperatures plant populations migrate to higher latitudes and higher altitudes. Ecological studies compared the dispersal capacity of plant seeds with that of soil microbes and the response of soil and root microbes to experimental heating of soils. These studies described a succession of microbiome associations and the kinetics of a release of stored soil carbon into the atmosphere enhancing global warming. Scientists explored the impact of synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) on rice productivity or tea quality; of whole soil addition in grassland restoration; or single fungal inoculation in maize fields. Meta‐analyses of fungal inoculation showed overall a positive effect, but also a wide variation in effect sizes. Climate change will be particularly prominent in urban areas (“urban heat islands”) where more than half of the world population is living. Urban landscape architecture will thus have an important impact on human health and studies started to explore the contribution of the microbiome from urban greenspace to ecosystem services.
Non‐transgenic guinea pig strains exhibit divergent age‐related changes in hippocampal mitochondrial respiration
Authors: Walsh Maureen A. , Latham Amanda S. , Zhang Qian , Jacobs Robert A. , Musci Robert V. , LaRocca Thomas J. , Moreno Julie A. , Santangelo Kelly S. , Hamilton Karyn L.
Published: June 2024

Aim

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. However, while 150+ animal models of AD exist, drug translation from preclinical models to humans for treatment usually fails. One factor contributing to low translation is likely the absence of neurodegenerative models that also encompass the multi‐morbidities of human aging. We previously demonstrated that, in comparison to the PigmEnTed (PET) guinea pig strain which models “typical” brain aging, the Hartley strain develops hallmarks of AD like aging humans. Hartleys also exhibit age‐related impairments in cartilage and skeletal muscle. Impaired mitochondrial respiration is one driver of both cellular aging and AD. In humans with cognitive decline, diminished skeletal muscle and brain respiratory control occurs in parallel. We previously reported age‐related declines in skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration in Hartleys. It is unknown if there is concomitant mitochondrial dysfunction in the brain.

Methods

Therefore, we assessed hippocampal mitochondrial respiration in 5‐ and 12‐month Hartley and PET guinea pigs using high‐resolution respirometry.

Results

At 12 months, PETs had higher complex I supported mitochondrial respiration paralleling their increase in body mass compared to 5 months PETs. Hartleys were also heavier at 12 months compared to 5 months but did not have higher complex I respiration. Compared to 5 months Hartleys, 12 months Hartleys had lower complex I mitochondrial efficiency and compensatory increases in mitochondrial proteins collectively suggesting mitochondrial dysfunction with age.

Conclusions

Therefore, Hartleys might be a relevant model to test promising therapies targeting mitochondria to slow brain aging and AD progression.
Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease with steroid‐sparing medications is age‐dependent – Results from a Danish nationwide cohort study, 2000–2018
Authors: Nordestgaard Rie Louise Møller , Wewer Mads Damsgaard , Malham Mikkel , Wewer Vibeke , Boysen Trine , Burisch Johan
Published: June 2024

Background

Paediatric‐onset and elderly‐onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) present unique treatment challenges.

Aims

We investigated treatment patterns following a first and second course of systemic steroids in paediatric‐ and elderly‐onset IBD and compared them to adult‐onset IBD.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) between 2000 and 2018 were identified through the Danish healthcare registries. Patients were divided into groups based on their age at diagnosis. Kaplan–Meier plots were prepared for medications and surgeries after diagnosis and after the first and second courses of systemic steroids. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using multivariate Cox regression analysis for steroid‐sparing medications.

Results

1851 CD (13%) and 1687 (6%) UC patients were paediatric‐onset, while 2952 (20%) CD and 5812 (23%) UC patients were elderly‐onset. Paediatric‐onset more frequently received immunomodulators [CD: HR: 1.64, CI: 1.52–1.77, UC: HR: 2.29, CI: 2.02–2.61] and biologics [CD: HR: 1.43, CI: 1.25–1.65, UC: HR: 1.27, CI: 0.99–1.64], while elderly‐onset less frequently received immunomodulators [CD: HR: 0.39, CI: 0.35–0.44, UC: HR: 0.58, CI: 0.50–0.67] and biologics [CD: HR: 0.19, CI: 0.14–0.25, UC: HR: 0.36, CI: 0.27–0.48] compared to adult‐onset age groups. After two courses of systemic steroids, elderly‐onset still received less steroid‐sparing medications. High frailty was associated with lower usage of medications for elderly‐onset.

Conclusion

There are significant differences in the use of steroid‐sparing medication between age of onset, even after two courses with systemic steroids. High frailty could account for some of these differences in elderly‐onset IBD.
The resilience of parents of children with intellectual disabilities: An effort from self‐regulation and career burnout
Authors: Cheng Sanyin , Xuxu Li , Deng Meng
Published: June 2024

Background

Researchers have made great efforts to help parents of children with intellectual disabilities overcome the stress and burden. Learning to be resilient is one effective strategy.

Aim

This study explores resilience among parents of children with intellectual disabilities and how career burnout and self‐regulation relate to parents' resilience in mainland China.

Methods

The Burnout Scale, the Self‐Regulation Scale and the Resilience Scale were administered to 324 parents of children with intellectual disabilities.

Results

Results showed that career burnout significantly negatively influenced resilience (β = −0.269, p = 0.000), while self‐regulation significantly positively influenced resilience (β = 0.754, p = 0.000). In addition, self‐regulation moderated the relationships between career burnout and resilience (β = 0.176, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

The findings offer valuable insights for enhancing the resilience of parents of children with intellectual disabilities.
Re‐analysis of whole genome sequencing ends a diagnostic odyssey: Case report of an RNU4‐2 related neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Schot Rachel , Ferraro Federico , Geeven Geert , Diderich Karin E. M. , Barakat Tahsin Stefan
Published: June 2024

Despite increasing knowledge of disease‐causing genes in human genetics, approximately half of the individuals affected by neurodevelopmental disorders remain genetically undiagnosed. Part of this missing heritability might be caused by genetic variants outside of protein‐coding genes, which are not routinely diagnostically investigated. A recent preprint identified de novo variants in the non‐coding spliceosomal snRNA gene RNU4‐2 as a cause of a frequent novel syndromic neurodevelopmental disorder. Here we mined 164 whole genome sequencing (WGS) trios from individuals with neurodevelopmental or multiple congenital anomaly disorders that received diagnostic genomic investigations at our clinic. We identify a recurrent de novo RNU4‐2 variant (NR_003137.2(RNU4‐2):n.64_65insT) in a 5‐year‐old girl with severe global developmental delay, hypotonia, microcephaly, and seizures that likely explains her phenotype, given that extensive previous genetic investigations failed to identify an alternative cause. We present detailed phenotyping of the individual obtained during a 5‐year follow‐up. This includes photographs showing recognizable facial features for this novel disorder, which might allow prioritizing other currently unexplained affected individuals sharing similar facial features for targeted investigations of RNU4‐2. This case illustrates the power of re‐analysis to solve previously unexplained cases even when a diagnostic genome remains negative.
Periodontal conditions of teeth adjacent to dental implants with or without peri‐implantitis after non‐surgical therapy in patients treated for periodontitis: A retrospective study
Authors: Sung Cheng‐En , Chung Kwok‐Hung , Lin Fu‐Gong , Huang Ren‐Yeong , Cheng Wan‐Chien , Chen Wei‐Liang
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To retrospectively assess the periodontal conditions of teeth adjacent to and contralateral to implants presenting with or without peri‐implantitis, following non‐surgical periodontal and peri‐implant mechanical therapy.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and one patients with existing dental implants and chronic periodontitis, who underwent non‐surgical periodontal and peri‐implant mechanical therapy, were included. The periodontal clinical probing depth (PPD), gingival recession (GR), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at six sites around the adjacent (Adj‐) teeth and the contralateral (CL‐) teeth relative to the implant. The potential factors influencing the periodontal conditions of 316 teeth were analyzed by multivariate linear regression models with generalized estimating equation methods and α = .05.

Results

The PPD of Adj‐teeth was significantly different from that of CL‐teeth before and after non‐surgical therapy when the implant was diagnosed with peri‐implantitis (PI) (p < .05). The PPD of teeth was shown to be affected by neighboring implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis (β = .825 mm, p < .001), teeth adjacent to implants (β = .245 mm, p = .004), a molar tooth type (β = .435 mm, p = .019), and non‐surgical therapy (β = −.522 mm, p < .001).

Conclusions

Relatively compromised periodontal conditions at Adj‐teeth after non‐surgical PI therapy were detected. Therefore, clinicians should be aware that non‐surgical therapy may be less successful at teeth adjacent to implants with PI.
Quantifying social capital creation in post‐disaster recovery aid in Indonesia: methodological innovation by an AI‐based language model
Authors: Marutschke Daniel Moritz , Nurdin Muhammad Riza , Hirono Miwa
Published: June 2024

Smooth interaction with a disaster‐affected community can create and strengthen its social capital, leading to greater effectiveness in the provision of successful post‐disaster recovery aid. To understand the relationship between the types of interaction, the strength of social capital generated, and the provision of successful post‐disaster recovery aid, intricate ethnographic qualitative research is required, but it is likely to remain illustrative because it is based, at least to some degree, on the researcher's intuition. This paper thus offers an innovative research method employing a quantitative artificial intelligence (AI)‐based language model, which allows researchers to re‐examine data, thereby validating the findings of the qualitative research, and to glean additional insights that might otherwise have been missed. This paper argues that well‐connected personnel and religiously‐based communal activities help to enhance social capital by bonding within a community and linking to outside agencies and that mixed methods, based on the AI‐based language model, effectively strengthen text‐based qualitative research.