bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of function of metabolic traits in typhoidalSalmonellawithout apparent genome degradation
Authors: Machado Leopoldo F. M. , Galán Jorge E.
Published: February 2024

Salmonella entericaserovar Typhi and Paratyphi A are the cause of typhoid and paratyphoid fever in humans, which are systemic life-threatening illnesses. Both serovars are exclusively adapted to the human host, where they can cause life-long persistent infection. A distinct feature of these serovars is the presence of a relatively high number of degraded coding sequences coding for metabolic pathways, most likely a consequence of their adaptation to a single host. As a result of convergent evolution, these serovars shared many of the degraded coding sequences although often affecting different genes in the same metabolic pathway. However, there are several coding sequences that appear intact in one serovar while clearly degraded in the other, suggesting differences in their metabolic capabilities. Here, we examined the functionality of metabolic pathways that appear intact inS. Typhi but that show clear signs of degradation inS. Paratyphi A. We found that, in all cases, the existence of single amino acid substitutions inS.Typhi metabolic enzymes, transporters, or transcription regulators resulted in the inactivation of these metabolic pathways. Thus, the inability ofS. Typhi to metabolize Glucose-6-Phosphate or 3-phosphoglyceric acid is due to the silencing of the expression of the genes encoding the transporters for these compounds due to point mutations in the transcriptional regulatory proteins. In contrast, its inability to utilize glucarate or galactarate is due to the presence of point mutations in the transporter and enzymes necessary for the metabolism of these sugars. These studies provide additional support for the concept of adaptive convergent evolution of these two human-adaptedSalmonella entericaserovars and highlight a limitation of bioinformatic approaches to predict metabolic capabilities.
Intraspecific diversity in thermal performance determines phytoplankton ecological niche
Authors: Krinos Arianna I. , Shapiro Sara K. , Li Weixuan , Haley Sheean T. , Dyhrman Sonya T. , Dutkiewicz Stephanie , Follows Michael J. , Alexander Harriet
Published: February 2024

Temperature has a primary influence on phytoplankton physiology and affects biodiversity and ecology. To examine how intraspecific diversity and temperature shape plankton populations, we grew 12 strains of the ecologically-important coccolithophoreGephyrocapsa huxleyiisolated from regions of different temperature for ∼45 generations (2 months), each at 6-8 temperatures, and characterized the acclimated thermal response curve of each strain. Even with virtually identical temperature optima and overlapping cell size, strain growth rates varied between 0.45 and 1 day-1. While some thermal curves were effectively symmetrical, others had more slowly declining growth rates above the “thermal optimum,” and thermal niche widths varied between 16.7 and 24.8 °C. This suggests that different strains use distinct thermal response mechanisms. We investigated the ecological implications of such intraspecific diversity on thermal response using an ocean ecosystem simulation resolving distinct phytoplankton thermal phenotypes. Resolving model analogs of thermal “generalists” and “specialists” (similar to those observed inG. huxleyi)resulted in a distinctive global biogeography of preferred thermal niche widths with a nonlinear latitudinal pattern. We leveraged the model output to predict the ranges of the 12 strains we studied in the laboratory and demonstrated how this approach could refine predictions of phytoplankton thermal geographic rangein situ. Our combination of observed thermal traits and modeled biogeography highlights the capacity of diverse groups to persist through temperature shifts.

Significance Statement

Intraspecific diversity in the phytoplankton may underpin their distribution. We show that within a single coccolithophore species, thermal response curves have diverse trait parameters. For example, many strains had a variable range of temperatures at which they could survive (thermal niche width). Adding this thermal niche width diversity to an ecosystem model simulation impacted phytoplankton coexistence and overall biomass. These observations show that thermal niche width is a gap in phytoplankton representation in ecosystem models that impacts modeled phytoplankton biogeography and concomitant carbon cycle dynamics. Including thermal tolerance is crucial to predictive modeling as ocean temperature dynamics change.
DFCP1 is a Regulator of ATGL-mediated Lipid Droplet Lipolysis
Authors: Ismail V.A. , Harvey M.N. , Castillo-Badillo J. , Naismith T. , Kast D.J.
Published: February 2024

Lipid droplets (LDs) are transient lipid storage organelles that can be readily tapped to resupply cells with energy or lipid building blocks, and therefore play a central role in cellular metabolism. Double FYVE Domain Containing Protein 1 (DFCP1/ZFYV1) has emerged as a key regulator of LD metabolism, where the nucleotide-dependent accumulation of DFCP1 on LDs influences their size, number, and dynamics. Here we show that DFCP1 regulates lipid metabolism by directly modulating the activity of Adipose Triglyceride Lipase (ATGL/PNPLA2), the rate-limiting lipase driving the catabolism of LDs. We show through pharmacological inhibition of key enzymes associated with LD metabolism that DFCP1 specifically regulates lipolysis and, to a lesser extent, lipophagy. Consistent with this observation, DFCP1 interacts with and recruits ATGL to LDs in starved cells, irrespective of known regulatory factors of ATGL. We further establish that this interaction prevents dynamic disassociation of ATGL from LDs and thereby impedes the rate of LD lipolysis. Collectively, our findings indicate that DFCP1 primes ATGL on LDs to promote rapid LD catabolism.
Calculation of momentum correlation functions between
π, K
, and
p
for several heavy-ion collision systems at
sNN=39
GeV
Authors: Wang Ting-Ting , Ma Yu-Gang , Zhang Song
Published: February 2024

Momentum correlation functions between π, K, and p are calculated for several heavy-ion collision systems, namely B510+B510, O816+O816, Ca2040+Ca2040, and Au79197+Au79197 in central collisions as well as Au79197+Au79197 collision in different centralities at center-of-mass energy

s

N

N

=

39

GeV within the framework of a multiphase transport model complemented by the Lednický and Lyuboshitz analytical method. The results present the centrality and system-size dependence of the momentum correlation functions among pairs of π, K, and p, from which the emission source-size can be deduced. It is found that the deduced source sizes increase with the decreasing of centrality for Au + Au system or with the increasing of system size in central collisions with different nuclear size. In addition, through the momentum correlation functions of nonidentical particle pairs gated on velocity, the average emission sequence of nonidentical particles can be indicated. The results illustrate that in the small relative momentum region, protons are emitted in average earlier than π+ and K+, and K+ are emitted averagely earlier than π+. Furthermore, it seems that larger interval of the average emission order among them is exhibited for smaller collision systems. The present study sheds light on the dynamics of light particle emission at RHIC energy.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Linear and nonlinear integrate-and-fire neurons driven by synaptic shot noise with reversal potentials
Authors: Richardson Magnus J. E.
Published: February 2024

The steady-state firing rate and firing-rate response of the leaky and exponential integrate-and-fire models receiving synaptic shot noise with excitatory and inhibitory reversal potentials is examined. For the particular case where the underlying synaptic conductances are exponentially distributed, it is shown that the master equation for a population of such model neurons can be reduced from an integrodifferential form to a more tractable set of three differential equations. The system is nevertheless more challenging analytically than for current-based synapses: where possible, analytical results are provided with an efficient numerical scheme and code provided for other quantities. The increased tractability of the framework developed supports an ongoing critical comparison between models in which synapses are treated with and without reversal potentials, such as recently in the context of networks with balanced excitatory and inhibitory conductances.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Agroforestry in the UK: exploring consumer knowledge and interest
Authors: Cole Robert , Gittins Heli , Dandy Norman
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper's purpose is to explore the current interest and knowledge that UK consumers hold around agroforestry. Despite the many reported benefits of agroforestry systems, uptake in the UK, as well as other temperate nations, has been low. As the consumer has a role to play in the transition of agriculture to methods that are more environmentally friendly it is vital to have an understanding of their perceptions. Yet to date no work has looked at agroforestry from the perspective of the UK consumer.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted using a convenience sample accessed by floating a link through social media and messaging apps. The survey was also shared to the members of a private Facebook group associated with an organic vegetable box service. A mix of multiple choice and open text boxes were used. The survey received 139 responses.

Findings

Non-parametric tests indicate that this sample of UK consumers would be mostly likely to buy, and willing to pay more for, agroforestry produce; and the sample showed a split group regarding familiarity. Inductive thematic analysis of the qualitative data highlighted some important barriers to the purchase as well as capturing a snapshot of this sample's perceptions.

Originality/value

This paper presents, to the authors knowledge, the first set of data regarding a sample of UK consumers' perspective of agroforestry produce. The findings could bolster producers' confidence in adopting agroforestry practices, but also highlight the need for policymakers to bolster consumer support through parallel means.
Symmetrical and asymmetrical analysis of the complex relationship between perceived environmental uncertainty and creative performance: exploring a competency formula
Authors: Darvishmotevali Mahlagha , Prentice Catherine , Altinay Levent
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In a dynamic and complex environment, employees’ creative performance (CP) can be essential in developing a distinguished and competitive strategy for an organization. Using the lens of competency management, this study aims to examine how employees perceived environmental uncertainty (PEU) and competency formula relate to employee CP, with a focus on the hospitality industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was collected from employees in the hospitality sector. Both symmetrical (PLS-SEM) and asymmetrical (fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis [fsQCA]) tests were performed to gain in-depth knowledge of how individual, organizational and environmental factors can be configured to explain employees’ CP.

Findings

The symmetrical analysis shows that the competency formula mediates the negative impacts of PEU on two dimensions of creativity – that is, novelty and utility. The fsQCA testing generated contrasting findings and revealed that uncertainty, along with the formula elements, is a unique antecedent condition and opportunity for employees’ CP. The inconsistent findings indicate asymmetrical and complex relationships between the proposed antecedents and outcomes in the case of employee creativity.

Practical implications

A combination of symmetrical and asymmetrical approaches is necessary to uncover the complex relationships among employees, organizations and the environment. This study shows that organizational agility, competency strategies and comprehensive strategic management processes can be configured to explain positive outcomes for organizations during uncertain circumstances. The findings can be used by human resource practitioners to maximize employee creativity and enhance organizational performance.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to use symmetrical and asymmetrical testing to address the inadequacy of explaining employee CP in complex and uncertain environments, and highlight the crucial role of the competency formula in enhancing novelty and utility dimensions of CP. This research examines the impact of various internal and external factors (i.e. individual, organizational and contextual) on employee creativity within the hospitality industry.
Work engagement among higher education teachers: exploring the influence of human values and subjective well-being
Authors: Telu Sreenu , Potnuru Rama Krishna Gupta
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In today’s competitive environment, understanding employee well-being and work engagement (WE) is crucial. This study explores the relationship between values, well-being and WE within positive organizational behavior (POB). The research aims to provide insights for promoting employee well-being and enhancing WE.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional approach, three hundred and seventy-two teachers from higher education institutes in India participated by completing questionnaires. Covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) was employed to examine the mediation effect.

Findings

Human values i.e. benevolence (BE) and universalism (UN) significantly impacted teachers' WE. These relationships were mediated by positive emotions (PE), negative emotions (NE) and satisfaction with life (SWL). Interestingly, UN exhibited a positive relationship with PE and SWL and a negative relationship with NE. These findings contradict existing theories and may be attributed to India’s cultural aspects, particularly the concept of karma orientation.

Research limitations/implications

The quantitative results obtained through CB-SEM could be complemented by future qualitative studies. Employing longitudinal research might yield different results. Generalizing the findings to other populations requires caution.

Practical implications

Institutions should prioritize human values in teacher recruitment and development to improve engagement. Promoting PE, managing NE and enhancing SWL can boost WE. Future research should explore mediation with other variables and use longitudinal studies to understand cultural impact and intervention strategies.

Originality/value

The study contributes to knowledge on WE within positive organizational behavior by examining BE and UN. Additionally, exploring the mediating effect of PE, NE and SWL adds further value.
Is UGC sentiment helpful for recommendation? An application of sentiment-based recommendation model
Authors: Gao Mengyang , Wang Jun , Liu Ou
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Given the critical role of user-generated content (UGC) in e-commerce, exploring various aspects of UGC can aid in understanding user purchase intention and commodity recommendation. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of UGC on purchase decisions and proposes new recommendation models based on sentiment analysis, which are verified in Douban, one of the most popular UGC websites in China.

Design/methodology/approach

After verifying the relationship between various factors and product sales, this study proposes two models, collaborative filtering recommendation model based on sentiment (SCF) and hidden factors topics recommendation model based on sentiment (SHFT), by combining traditional collaborative filtering model (CF) and hidden factors topics model (HFT) with sentiment analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that sentiment significantly influences purchase intention. Furthermore, the proposed sentiment-based recommendation models outperform traditional CF and HFT in terms of mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE). Moreover, the two models yield different outcomes for various product categories, providing actionable insights for organizers to implement more precise recommendation strategies.

Practical implications

The findings of this study advocate the incorporation of UGC sentimental factors into websites to heighten recommendation accuracy. Additionally, different recommendation strategies can be employed for different products types.

Originality/value

This study introduces a novel perspective to the recommendation algorithm field. It not only validates the impact of UGC sentiment on purchase intention but also evaluates the proposed models with real-world data. The study provides valuable insights for managerial decision-making aimed at enhancing recommendation systems.
Entropic behavior with activation energy in the dynamics of hyperbolic-tangent mixed-convective nanomaterial due to a vertical slendering surface
Authors: Faisal Muhammad , Mabood F. , Badruddin I.A. , Aiyaz Muhammad , Butt Faisal Mehmood
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Nonlinear mixed-convective entropy optimized the flow of hyperbolic-tangent nanofluid (HTN) with magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) process is considered over a vertical slendering surface. The impression of activation energy is incorporated in the modeling with the significance of nonlinear radiation, dissipative-function, heat generation/consumption connection and Joule heating. Research in this area has practical applications in the design of efficient heat exchangers, thermal management systems or nanomaterial-based devices.

Design/methodology/approach

Suitable set of variables is introduced to transform the PDEs (Partial differential equations) system into required ODEs (Ordinary differential equations) system. The transformed ODEs system is then solved numerically via finite difference method. Graphical artworks are made to predict the control of applicable transport parameters on surface entropy, Bejan number, Sherwood number, skin-friction, Nusselt number, temperature, velocity and concentration fields.

Findings

It is noticed from present numerical examination that Bejan number aggravates for improved estimations of concentration-difference parameter a_2, Eckert number E_c, thermal ratio parameter ?_w and radiation parameter R_d, whereas surface entropy condenses for flow performance index n, temperature-difference parameter a_1, thermodiffusion parameter N_t and mixed convection parameter ?. Sherwood number is enriched with the amplification of pedesis-motion parameter N_b, while opposite development is perceived for thermodiffusion parameter. Lastly, outcomes are matched with formerly published data to authenticate the present numerical investigation.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, no investigation has been reported yet that explains the entropic behavior with activation energy in the flowing of hyperbolic-tangent mixed-convective nanomaterial due to a vertical slendering surface.
Review of studies on risk factors in critical infrastructure projects from 2011 to 2023
Authors: Al-Mhdawi M.K.S. , O'connor Alan , Qazi Abroon , Rahimian Farzad , Dacre Nicholas
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This research aims to systematically review studies on significant risks for Critical Infrastructure Projects (CIPs) from selected top-tier academic journals from 2011 to 2023.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, a three-step systematic literature review methodology was employed to analyse 55 selected articles on Critical Infrastructure Risks (CIRs) from well-regarded and relevant academic journals published from 2011 to 2023.

Findings

The findings highlight a growing research focus on CIRs from 2011 to 2023. A total of 128 risks were identified and grouped into ten distinct categories: construction, cultural, environmental, financial, legal, management, market, political, safety and technical risks. In addition, literature reviews combined with questionnaire surveys were more frequently used to identify CIRs than any other method. Moreover, oil and gas projects were the subjects most often explored in the reviewed papers. Furthermore, it was observed that publications from Iran, the USA and China dominated CIRs research, making significant contributions, accounting for 49.65% of the analysed articles.

Research limitations/implications

This research specifically focuses on five types of CIPs (i.e. roadways, bridges, water supply systems, dams and oil and gas projects). Other CIPs like cyber-physical systems or electric power systems, were not considered in this research.

Practical implications

Governments and contracting firms can benefit from the findings of this study by understanding the significant risks associated with the execution of CIPs, irrespective of the nation, industry or type of project. The results of this investigation can offer construction professionals valuable insights to formulate and implement risk response plans in the early stages of a project.

Originality/value

As a novel literature review related to CIRs, it lays the groundwork for future research and deepens the understanding of the multi-faceted effects of these risks, as well as sets practical response strategies.
Does carbon dioxide emission influence food security in the United States amidst economic expansion, population growth, and inflation? A QARDL and Wavelet Coherence analysis
Authors: Somoye Oluwatoyin Abidemi , Mar'I Muhammad , Olowu Gbolahan
Published: February 2024

Food security is an indispensable concept because human life depends on it. Although numerous studies have examined food security in developing economies, there has been a lack of attention given to this issue in developed countries. Thus, this study investigates the influence of carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) on food security in the United States from 1965 to 2022 using Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag (QARDL) and Wavelet Coherence methods. Food security is proxied by the food production index (FPI), while the control variables are gross domestic product (GDP), population growth (POP), and inflation. The Quantile Autoregressive Distributed Lag results show that: (i) In the short‐run, CO2 influences FPI positively at the 0.05 quantile, while it harms food security at the 0.50 and 0.95 quantiles. However, in the long‐run, the impact is positive across all quantiles; (ii) In the short‐run, GDP harms FPI at the 0.05 quantile while it benefits FPI at the 0.50 and 0.95 quantiles. In the long‐run, GDP's impact across all quantiles is beneficial; (iii) In the short‐run, POP negatively influences FPI at 0.05 and 0.50 quantiles, while it positively spurs FPI at 0.95 quantiles. In the long‐run, POP positively influences FPI at quantiles of 0.05, whereas it negatively influences FPI at 0.50 and 0.95 quantiles; (iv) inflation positively influences FPI in the short and long‐run across all quantiles; (v) The Wavelet Coherence analysis showed a robust correlation across all frequencies. Policy suggestions and implications are discussed further.
Ethnicity, socio‐economic deprivation and postpartum outcomes following caesarean delivery: a multicentre cohort study
Authors: O'Carroll J. E. , Zucco L. , Warwick E. , Radcliffe G. , Moonesinghe S.R. , El‐Boghdadly K. , Guo N. , Carvalho B. , Sultan P. ,   the ObsQoR Collaborators
Published: February 2024

Disparities relating to postpartum recovery outcomes in different socio‐economic and racial ethnic groups are underexplored. We conducted a planned analysis of a large prospective caesarean delivery cohort to explore the relationship between ethnicity, socio‐economic status and postpartum recovery. Eligible patients were enrolled and baseline demographic, obstetric and medical history data were collected 18 h and 30 h following delivery. Patients completed postpartum quality of life and recovery measures in person on day 1 (EuroQoL EQ‐5D‐5L, including global health visual analogue scale; Obstetric Quality of Recovery‐10 item score; and pain scores) and by telephone between day 28 and day 32 postpartum (EQ‐5D‐5L and pain scores). Socio‐economic group was determined according to the Index of Multiple Deprivation quintile of each patient's usual place of residence. Data from 1000 patients who underwent caesarean delivery were included. There were more patients of Asian, Black and mixed ethnicity in the more deprived quintiles. Patients of White ethnicities had shorter postpartum duration of hospital stay compared with patients of Asian and Black ethnicities (35 (28–56 [18–513]) h vs. 44 (31–71 [19–465]) h vs. 49 (33–75 [23–189]) h, respectively. In adjusted models at day 30, patients of Asian ethnicity had a significantly greater risk of moderate to severe pain (numerical rating scale ≥ 4) at rest and on movement (odds ratio (95%CI) 2.42 (1.24–4.74) and 2.32 (1.40–3.87)), respectively). There were no differences in readmission rates or incidence of complications between groups. Patients from White ethnic backgrounds experience shorter postpartum duration of stay compared with patients from Asian and Black ethnic groups. Ethnic background impacts pain scores and recovery at day 1 postpartum and following hospital discharge, even after adjusting for socio‐economic group. Further work is required to understand the underlying factors driving differences in pain and recovery and to develop strategies to reduce disparities in obstetric patients.
MicroRNA‐guided drug discovery for mitigating persistent pulmonary complications in critical COVID‐19 survivors: A longitudinal pilot study
Authors: García‐Hidalgo María C. , Benítez Iván D. , Perez‐Pons Manel , Molinero Marta , Belmonte Thalía , Rodríguez‐Muñoz Carlos , Aguilà María , Santisteve Sally , Torres Gerard , Moncusí‐Moix Anna , Gort‐Paniello Clara , Peláez Rafael , Larráyoz Ignacio M. , Caballero Jesús , Barberà Carme , Nova‐Lamperti Estefania , Torres Antoni , González Jessica , Barbé Ferran , de Gonzalo‐Calvo David
Published: February 2024

Background and Purpose

The post‐acute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection pose a significant global challenge, with nearly 50% of critical COVID‐19 survivors manifesting persistent lung abnormalities. The lack of understanding about the molecular mechanisms and effective treatments hampers their management. Here, we employed microRNA (miRNA) profiling to decipher the systemic molecular underpinnings of the persistent pulmonary complications.

Experimental Approach

We conducted a longitudinal investigation including 119 critical COVID‐19 survivors. A comprehensive pulmonary evaluation was performed in the short‐term (median = 94.0 days after hospital discharge) and long‐term (median = 358 days after hospital discharge). Plasma miRNAs were quantified at the short‐term evaluation using the gold‐standard technique, RT‐qPCR. The analyses combined machine learning feature selection techniques with bioinformatic investigations. Two additional datasets were incorporated for validation.

Key Results

In the short‐term, 84% of the survivors exhibited impaired lung diffusion (DLCO < 80% of predicted). One year post‐discharge, 54.4% of this patient subgroup still presented abnormal DLCO. Four feature selection methods identified two specific miRNAs, miR‐9‐5p and miR‐486‐5p, linked to persistent lung dysfunction. The downstream experimentally validated targetome included 1473 genes, with heterogeneous enriched pathways associated with inflammation, angiogenesis and cell senescence. Validation studies using RNA‐sequencing and proteomic datasets emphasized the pivotal roles of cell migration and tissue repair in persistent lung dysfunction. The repositioning potential of the miRNA targets was limited.

Conclusion and Implications

Our study reveals early mechanistic pathways contributing to persistent lung dysfunction in critical COVID‐19 survivors, offering a promising approach for the development of targeted disease‐modifying agents.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue Non‐coding RNA Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.2/issuetoc
Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of novel triphenylphosphonium‐functionalized substituted pyrimidines
Authors: Muzychka Liubov V. , Humeniuk Nataliia I. , Boiko Iryna O. , Vrynchanu Nina O. , Smolii Oleg B.
Published: February 2024

The increase in the prevalence of antibiotic‐resistant pathogens leads to a decrease in the number of antimicrobial agents for the treatment of infections and prompts researchers to search for new effective antimicrobial drugs. This study reports the synthesis of novel triphenylphosphonium‐functionalized substituted pyrimidines and in vitro evaluation of their antibacterial and antibiofilm activity. Most of the synthesized derivatives showed high antibacterial activity (MIC = 0.39–1.56 μg/mL) against the methicillin‐resistant strain of S. aureus 222. Compounds 2a and 11 exhibited a high level of antibiofilm activity against S. aureus 222 and E. coli 311. The triphenylphosphonium‐containing pyrimidines 11 and 2a reduced S. aureus 222 biofilm formation by 99.1% and 95.8%, respectively. In addition, compound 2a was the most active against E. coli 311 biofilm formation (the biomass decreased by 98.4%).
The role of glutamate and glutamine metabolism and related transporters in nerve cells
Authors: Zhang Dongyang , Hua Zhongyan , Li Zhijie
Published: February 2024

Background

Glutamate and glutamine are the most abundant amino acids in the blood and play a crucial role in cell survival in the nervous system. Various transporters found in cell and mitochondrial membranes, such as the solute carriers (SLCs) superfamily, are responsible for maintaining the balance of glutamate and glutamine in the synaptic cleft and within cells. This balance affects the metabolism of glutamate and glutamine as non‐essential amino acids.

Aims

This review aims to provide an overview of the transporters and enzymes associated with glutamate and glutamine in neuronal cells.

Discussion

We delve into the function of glutamate and glutamine in the nervous system by discussing the transporters involved in the glutamate‐glutamine cycle and the key enzymes responsible for their mutual conversion. Additionally, we highlight the role of glutamate and glutamine as carbon and nitrogen donors, as well as their significance as precursors for the synthesis of reduced glutathione (GSH).

Conclusion

Glutamate and glutamine play a crucial role in the brain due to their special effects. It is essential to focus on understanding glutamate and glutamine metabolism to comprehend the physiological behavior of nerve cells and to treat nervous system disorders and cancer.
iPSC‐derived cells stimulate ABCG2+/NES+ endogenous trabecular meshwork cell proliferation and tissue regeneration
Authors: Xi Gaiping , Feng Pengchao , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wu Shen , Zhang Jingxue , Wang Xiangji , Xiang Ailing , Xu Wenhua , Wang Ningli , Zhu Wei
Published: February 2024

A major risk factor for glaucoma, the first leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is the decellularisation of the trabecular meshwork (TM) in the conventional outflow pathway. Stem cell‐based therapy, particularly the utilisation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), presents an enticing potential for tissue regeneration and intraocular pressure (IOP) maintenance in glaucoma. We have previously observed that differentiated iPSCs can stimulate endogenous cell proliferation in the TM, a pivotal factor in TM regeneration and aqueous humour outflow restoration. In this study, we investigated the response of TM cells in vivo after interacting with iPSC‐derived cells and identified two subpopulations responsible for this relatively long‐term tissue regeneration: ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily G Member 2 (ABCG2)‐positive cells and Nestin (NES)‐positive cells. We further uncovered that alterations of these responsive cells are linked to ageing and different glaucoma etiologies, suggesting that ABCG2+ subpopulation decellularization could serve as a potential risk factor for TM decellularization in glaucoma. Taken together, our findings illustrated the proliferative subpopulations in the conventional outflow pathway when stimulated with iPSC‐derived cells and defined them as TM precursors, which may be applied to develop novel therapeutic approaches for glaucoma.
Layer‐specific imprints of traits within a plant–herbivore–predator network – complementary insights from complementary methods
Authors: Wootton Kate L. , Guillaume Blanchet F. , Liston Andrew , Nyman Tommi , Riggi Laura G. A. , Kopelke Jens‐Peter , Roslin Tomas , Gravel Dominique
Published: February 2024

Who interacts with whom is a key question in community and network ecology. The concept that these interactions may be driven by a match between the traits of consumer and resource species is known as trait‐matching. If trait‐matching would allow for general predictions of interaction structure based on sufficiently few and easily‐measurable traits, then this approach could replace the laborious description of each individual pairwise interaction. To resolve imprints of trait‐matching in a species‐rich tri‐trophic Salix–galler–parasitoid network, and to identify the most relevant traits, we applied five different methods, each approaching the same phenomenon from a different perspective. As traits, we used, body sizes, gall type (position on plant, structure of gall) and phenology, among others, as well as phylogenetic proxies. When jointly applied, the methods demonstrate distinctly different imprints of traits within the two bipartite network elements (Salix–galler versus galler–parasitoid interactions). Of the galler–parasitoid sub‐network's interactions, approximately half were explainable by the species traits used; of the Salix–galler sub‐network's interactions, traits explained at most two‐fifths. Gall type appeared to be the most important structuring trait in both networks. Phylogeny explained as much, or more than did our tested traits, suggesting that traits may be conserved and phylogeny therefore an effective proxy. Overall, the more specialized structure of the Salix–galler network versus the more nested structure of the galler–parasitoid network meant that different methods were more effective at capturing interactions and interaction structure in the different sub‐networks. Thus, our analysis reveals how structuring impacts may vary even between levels within the same multitrophic network, and calls for comparative analyses of trait matching across a wide set of systems and methods.
The association between gender role attitudes, rape myth acceptance and dating sexual violence: Different mechanisms among Chinese college students of different sexual orientations
Authors: Peng Yunqi , Wu Jiarui , Chen Binli , Wang Xiying
Published: February 2024

Dating sexual violence (DSV) is a serious social problem among college students worldwide. This study examines the effects of gender role attitudes (GRA) in DSV and the mediating role of rape myth acceptance (RMA) among students of different sexual orientations in China. A total of 2134 Chinese college students (553 men and 1581 women, 1751 heterosexuals and 383 sexually diverse groups) participated in this study. We found that sexually diverse men have the highest DSV perpetration (47.13%) and victimization rates (40.23%) and that sexually diverse women have the most equal gender attitudes. RMA is identified as a mediator of the relationship between GRA and DSV perpetration and victimization among heterosexuals, but not among sexually diverse groups. The need for more sexually inclusive educational interventions to decrease DSV on college campuses is discussed.
Deficits in basal and evoked striatal dopamine release following alpha‐synuclein preformed fibril injection: An in vivo microdialysis study
Authors: Centner Ashley , Del Priore Isabella , Chambers Nicole , Cohen Sophie R. , Terry Michelle L. , Coyle Michael , Glinski John , Stoll Anna C. , Patterson Joseph R. , Kemp Christopher J. , Miller Kathryn M. , Kubik Michael , Kuhn Nathan , Luk Kelvin C. , Sortwell Caryl E. , Bishop Christopher
Published: February 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the accumulation of misfolded alpha‐synuclein (α‐syn) protein, forming intraneuronal Lewy body (LB) inclusions. The α‐syn preformed fibril (PFF) model of PD recapitulates α‐syn aggregation, progressive nigrostriatal degeneration and motor dysfunction; however, little is known about the time course of PFF‐induced alterations in basal and evoked dopamine (DA). In vivo microdialysis is well suited for identifying small changes in neurotransmitter levels over extended periods. In the present study, adult male Fischer 344 rats received unilateral, intrastriatal injections of either α‐syn PFFs or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS). At 4 or 8 months post‐injection (p.i.), animals underwent in vivo microdialysis to evaluate basal extracellular striatal DA and metabolite levels, local KCl‐evoked striatal DA release and the effects of systemic levodopa (l‐DOPA). Post‐mortem analysis demonstrated equivalent PFF‐induced reductions in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactive nigral neurons (~50%) and striatal TH (~20%) at both time points. Compared with reduction in striatal TH, reduction in striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) was more pronounced and progressed between the 4‐ and 8‐month p.i. intervals (36% ➔ 46%). Significant PFF‐induced deficits in basal and evoked striatal DA, as well as deficits in motor performance, were not observed until 8 months p.i. Responses to l‐DOPA did not differ regardless of PBS or PFF treatment. These results suggest that basal and evoked striatal DA are maintained for several months following PFF injection, with loss of both associated with motor dysfunction. Our studies provide insight into the time course and magnitude of PFF‐induced extracellular dopaminergic deficits in the striatum.
Couple differentiation and health‐related quality of life
Authors: Worch Sarah , Bartle‐Haring Suzanne
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine whether couple differentiation influenced mental and physical health‐related quality of life in couple members. Data for this study were derived from a larger study at a couple a family therapy clinic. One hundred and thirty‐three couples were included in a latent profile analysis, and seventy‐two couples were included in analyses of mean differences. The latent profile analysis resulted in three distinct groups by level of couple differentiation: high, moderate, or low in differentiation of self. Analyses of variance indicated evidence that couple differentiation influenced health‐related quality‐of‐life measures. Findings are discussed in the context of Bowen Family Systems Theory and the existing literature.
Increased burden of rare protein‐truncating variants in constrained, brain‐specific and synaptic genes in extremely impulsively violent males with antisocial personality disorder
Authors: Mušálková Dita , Přistoupilová Anna , Jedličková Ivana , Hartmannová Hana , Trešlová Helena , Nosková Lenka , Hodaňová Kateřina , Bittmanová Petra , Stránecký Viktor , Jiřička Václav , Langmajerová Michaela , Woodbury‐Smith Marc , Zarrei Mehdi , Trost Brett , Scherer Stephen W. , Bleyer Anthony J. , Vevera Jan , Kmoch Stanislav
Published: February 2024

The genetic correlates of extreme impulsive violence are poorly understood, and there have been few studies that have characterized a large group of affected individuals both clinically and genetically. We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) in 290 males with the life‐course‐persistent, extremely impulsively violent form of antisocial personality disorder (APD) and analyzed the spectrum of rare protein‐truncating variants (rPTVs). Comparisons were made with 314 male controls and publicly available genotype data. Functional annotation tools were used for biological interpretation. Participants were significantly more likely to harbor rPTVs in genes that are intolerant to loss‐of‐function variants (odds ratio [OR] 2.06; p < 0.001), specifically expressed in brain (OR 2.80; p = 0.036) and enriched for those involved in neurotransmitter transport and synaptic processes. In 60 individuals (20%), we identified rPTVs that we classified as clinically relevant based on their clinical associations, biological function and gene expression patterns. Of these, 37 individuals harbored rPTVs in 23 genes that are associated with a monogenic neurological disorder, and 23 individuals harbored rPTVs in 20 genes reportedly intolerant to loss‐of‐function variants. The analysis presents evidence in support of a model where presence of either one or several private, functionally relevant mutations contribute significantly to individual risk of life‐course‐persistent APD and reveals multiple individuals who could be affected by clinically unrecognized neuropsychiatric Mendelian disease. Thus, Mendelian diseases and increased rPTV burden may represent important factors for the development of extremely impulsive violent life‐course‐persistent forms of APD irrespective of their clinical presentation.
The McClure Mountain Syenite Apatite as a Potential Age Control Reference Material for LA‐ICP‐MS AFT and U‐Pb Double Dating
Authors: Cogné Nathan , Derycke Alexis , Gallagher Kerry
Published: February 2024

Apatite fission track (AFT) dating is now routinely performed using LA‐ICP‐MS, and U‐Pb age data are often acquired at the same time, allowing double dating of individual grains. Furthermore, additional geochemical data, such as REE mass fractions are readily acquired during the analysis. It is therefore of practical interest to identify a single material as a quality control on ages and composition. Here we present AFT and U‐Pb data for the McClure Mountain Syenite (MMS) apatite, already widely used as an age reference material by the U‐Pb community. We performed double dating on 238 grains, in thirteen measurement sessions over two years. The AFT data show remarkable reproducibility with an overall central age of 254.1 ± 5.1 Ma. The U‐Pb results agree with the reference age for individual sessions (and for all data together). The results show that that the McClure Mountain apatite is a valid quality control material for double dating, allowing the use of the same material for both methods. We also propose to extend the quality control using MMS to trace element measurements performed in conjunction AFT and U‐Pb dating.
Role of miRNAs in T‐cell activation and Th17/Treg‐cell imbalance in acquired aplastic anemia
Authors: Sabreen G. , Rahman Khaliqur , Gupta Ruchi , Chaturvedi Chandra P. , Srivastava Jyotika , Chandra Dinesh , Singh Manish K. , Yadav S. , Sharma Akhilesh , Sarkar Manoj , Kashyap Rajesh
Published: February 2024

Background

Altered T‐cell repertoire with an aberrant T‐cell activation and imbalance of the Th17/Treg cells has been reported in acquired aplastic anemia (aAA). miRNAs are well known to orchestrate T‐cell activation and differentiation, however, their role in aAA is poorly characterized. The study aimed at identifying the profile of miRNAs likely to be involved in T‐cell activation and the Th17/Treg‐cell imbalance in aAA, to explore newer therapeutic targets.

Methods

Five milliliters peripheral blood samples from 30 patients of aAA and 15 healthy controls were subjected to flow cytometry for evaluating Th17‐ and Treg‐cell subsets. The differential expression of 7 selected miRNAs viz; hsa‐miR‐126‐3p, miR‐146b‐5p, miR‐155‐5p, miR‐16, miR‐17, miR‐326, and miR‐181c was evaluated in the PB‐MNCs. Expression analysis of the miRNAs was performed using qRT‐PCR and fold change was calculated by 2−ΔΔCt method. The alterations in the target genes of deregulated miRNAs were assessed by qRT‐PCR. The targets studied included various transcription factors, cytokines, and downstream proteins.

Results

The absolute CD3+ lymphocytes were significantly elevated in the PB of aAA patients when compared with healthy controls (p < 0.0035), however, the CD4:CD8 ratio was unperturbed. Th17: Treg‐cell ratio was altered in aAA patients (9.1 vs. 3.7%, p value <0.05), which correlated positively with disease severity and the PNH positive aAA. Across all severities of aAA, altered expression of the 07 miRNAs was noted in comparison to controls; upregulation of miR‐155 (FC—2.174, p‐value‐0.0001), miR‐146 (FC—2.006, p‐value‐0.0001), and miR‐17 (FC—3.1, p‐value‐0.0001), and downregulation of miR‐126 (FC—0.329, p‐value‐0.0001), miR‐181c (FC—0.317, p‐value‐0.0001), miR‐16 (FC—0.348, p‐value‐0.0001), and miR‐326 (FC—0.334, p‐value‐0.0001). Target study for these miRNAs revealed an increased expression of transcription factors responsible for Th1 and Th17 differentiation (T‐bet, RORϒt, IL‐17, IL‐6, and IFN‐ϒ), T‐cell activation (NFκB, MYC, and PIK3R2), downregulation of FOX‐P3, and other regulatory downstream molecules like SHIP‐1, ETS‐1, IRAK‐1, TRAF‐6, and PTEN.

Conclusion

The study for the first time highlights the plausible role of different miRNAs in deregulating the Th17/Treg‐cell imbalance in aAA, and comprehensively suggest the role of altered NF‐kB and mTOR pathways in aAA. The axis may be actively explored for development of newer therapeutic targets in aAA.
Effects of alternating pressure patterns on sacral skin blood flow responses in people with spinal cord injury
Authors: Pauly Serah , Mo Pu‐Chun , Elliott Jeannette , Bleakney Adam , Pappu Suguna , Jan Yih‐Kuen
Published: February 2024

Alternating pressure support surface (APSS) is a common support surface for treating pressure injury in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, conflicting results on the effectiveness of APSS have been reported and may be associated with inappropriate configurations of APSS. The objectives of this study were to compare the different pressure amplitudes (75/5 mmHg [alternating between 75 and 5 mmHg] vs. 65/15 mmHg) and cycle periods (5 min [4 cycles] vs. 2.5 min [8 cycles]) of alternating pressure on sacral skin blood flow responses in 10 individuals with SCI. Sacral skin blood flow during and after loading of four alternating pressure protocols was assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry and was normalised to the value before loading (10‐min baseline, 20‐min loading and 10‐min recovery). The results demonstrated that during the high‐pressure phase, there was a significant difference between the 75/5 and 65/15 mmHg protocols (0.3658 ± 0.0688 for 75/5 mmHg and 0.1702 ± 0.0389 for 65/15 mmHg, p < 0.05); and during the low‐pressure phase, there was a significant difference between the 75/5 and 65/15 mmHg protocols (1.7184 ± 0.262 for 75/5 mmHg and 0.5916 ± 0.1378 for 65/15 mmHg, p < 0.05). There were no differences between cycle periods in skin blood flow responses. No adverse events were reported. Our finding indicates that the pressure amplitude of alternating pressure is a significant factor affecting sacral skin blood flow responses. An appropriate configuration of alternating pressure is needed to effectively increase skin blood flow and tissue viability in individuals with SCI.