bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coatomer protein complex I is required for efficient secretion of dengue virus non-structural protein 1
Authors: Johnson Stephen M. , Centofanti Siena M. , Bracho Gustavo , Beard Michael R. , Carr Jillian M. , Eyre Nicholas S.
Published: October 2024

Secreted non-structural protein 1 (sNS1) is an important orthoflavivirus pathogenic factor that can induce vascular leakage; a key symptom of severe dengue disease. Given the role of sNS1 in dengue pathogenesis, defining the molecular mechanisms of NS1 secretion may contribute towards development of NS1-targeting antiviral therapies. To this end, we performed a customised membrane-trafficking siRNA screen to identify human host factors involved in NS1 secretion. Our screen identified COPA, COPB2, and COPG1 as the top-ranking hits. These proteins are three of the seven subunits of the coatomer protein complex I (COPI) that coat transport vesicles that operate within the early secretory pathway, implicating COPI machinery as being involved in NS1 secretion. Validation studies employing host gene knockdown in dengue virus (DENV)-infected cells confirmed that COPI components are required for efficient NS1 secretion but are dispensable for infectious virus egress. Similar reductions in NS1 secretion were observed when COPI components were depleted in cells infected with West Nile virus Kunjin subtype (WNV/KUNV), indicating that the molecular mechanisms exploited to achieve NS1 secretion may be a conserved feature within the Orthoflavivirus genus. Heterologous expression of wildtype and pathogenic COPI variants in DENV NS1-NS5 polyprotein expressing cells resulted in altered NS1 secretion profiles, suggesting that allelic variants and altered expression levels of COPI components may indirectly influence the severity of dengue disease. The identification of COPI components as important determinants of NS1 secretion efficiency may aid in the identification of novel targets for anti-orthoflaviviral therapies.

IMPORTANCE

Over half of the world’s population is at risk of infection with mosquito-borne pathogenic orthoflaviviruses such as DENV. Although the secreted form of the viral NS1 protein has been identified as a major determinant of the pathogenic effects of DENV and related orthoflaviviruses, the exact mechanisms involved in NS1 secretion are poorly understood. Here we interrogated host factors involved in secretion of NS1 from infected cells using a customised membrane trafficking siRNA screen. This revealed 3 components of the COPI complex that regulates vesicular transport in the early secretory pathway as important factors in NS1 secretion. The involvement of COPI components in NS1 secretion was further validated using wildtype DENV and WNV/KUNV infection, overexpression approaches and chemical inhibition studies. Together, this study demonstrates the importance of COPI machinery in NS1 secretion and suggests that exploitation of this machinery in NS1 secretion may represent a future target of antiviral drug development.
A preserved neural code for temporal order between memory formation and recall in the human medial temporal lobe
Authors: Khazali Mohammad Farhan , Brandt Armin , Reinacher Peter C. , Kahana Michael , Jacobs Joshua , Schulze-Bonhage Andreas , Kunz Lukas
Published: October 2024

Temporal memory enables us to remember the temporal order of events happening in our life. The human medial temporal lobe (MTL) appears to contain neural representations supporting temporal memory formation, but the cellular mechanisms that preserve temporal order information for recall are largely unknown. Here, we examined whether human MTL neuronal activity represents the temporal position of events during memory formation and recall, using invasive single and multi-unit recordings in human epilepsy patients (n = 19). Participants freely navigated a virtual environment in order to explore and remember locations and temporal positions of objects. During each exploration period, they sequentially encountered two or three different objects, placed in different locations. This allowed us to examine single- and multi-unit neuronal firing rates (FR) as a function of the temporal position the objects were presented in. We found that a significant number of multi-units and single-units in various MTL regions including the hippocampus showed selectivity to the temporal position of objects during the exploration period. During recall, patients were asked to indicate which one of two objects from the same trial was found latter. Neural firing rates during recall showed a selectivity supporting recall of temporal positions. Interestingly, most of the selective single-units that stayed selective during encoding and recall preserved their temporal position preference. Our results thus suggest that neuronal activity in the human MTL contains a preserved neural code for temporal order in memory formation and recall.
Region-specific spreading depolarization drives aberrant post-ictal behavior
Authors: Mitlasóczki Bence , Gómez Adrián Gutiérrez , Kamali Midia , Babushkina Natalia , Baues Mayan , Kück Laura , Haubrich André Nathan , Tamiolakis Theodoros , Breuer Annika , Granak Simon , Schwering-Sohnrey Merlin , Gerhauser Ingo , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Ewell Laura , Opitz Thoralf , Pitsch Julika , Musall Simon , Surges Rainer , Mormann Florian , Beck Heinz , Wenzel Michael
Published: October 2024

Confusion, aphasia, and unaware wandering are prominent post-ictal symptoms regularly observed in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE)1. Despite the potentially life-threatening nature of the immediate post-ictal state2, its neurobiological underpinnings remain understudied3. We provide evidence in mice and humans that seizure-associated focal spreading depolarization (sSD) is a pathoclinical key factor in epilepsy. Using two-photon or widefield imaging (hippocampus, neocortex), field potential and single unit recordings, and behavioral assessment in mice, we first studied seizures during viral encephalitis, and subsequently established an optogenetic approach to dissociate hippocampal seizures and SD. We find region-specific occurrence of sSD that displays distinct spatial trajectories to preceding seizures, and show that seizure-related and isolated hippocampal SD promptpost-ictal wandering. This clinically relevant locomotor phenotype occurred in the absence of hippocampal SD progression to the neocortex. Finally, we confirm sSD existence in human epilepsy, in a patient cohort with refractory focal epilepsy, via Behnke-Fried electrode recordings. In this cohort, sSD displayed a similar temporomesial propensity as in mice. This work uncovers sSD as a previously underrecognized pathoclinical entity underlying postictal behavioral abnormalities in epilepsy. Our results carry wide-reaching ramifications for epilepsy research and neurology, and challenge current EEG-standards.
Perforation of the host cell plasma membrane duringToxoplasma gondiiinvasion requires rhoptry exocytosis
Authors: Male Frances , Kegawa Yuto , Blank Paul S. , Jiménez-Munguía Irene , Sidik Saima M. , Valleau Dylan , Lourido Sebastian , Lebrun Maryse , Zimmerberg Joshua , Ward Gary E.
Published: October 2024

Toxoplasma gondiiis an obligate intracellular parasite, and the delivery of effector proteins from the parasite into the host cell during invasion is critical for invasion itself and for parasite virulence. The effector proteins are released from specialized apical secretory organelles known as rhoptries. While much has been learned recently about the structure and composition of the rhoptry exocytic machinery and the function of individual rhoptry effector proteins that are exocytosed, virtually nothing is known about how the released proteins are translocated across the host cell plasma membrane. Previous electrophysiology experiments reported an unanticipated observation that invasion byT. gondiiis preceded by a transient increase in host cell plasma membrane conductance. Here, we confirm this electrophysiological observation and propose that the conductance transient represents a parasite-induced perforation in the host cell plasma membrane through which rhoptry proteins are delivered. As a first step towards testing this hypothesis, and to provide higher throughput than patch clamp electrophysiology, we developed an alternative assay to detect the perforation. This assay utilizes high-speed, multi-wavelength fluorescence imaging to enable simultaneous visualization of host cell perforation and parasite invasion. Using this assay, we interrogated a panel of mutant parasites conditionally depleted of key invasion-related proteins. Parasites lacking signaling proteins involved in triggering rhoptry secretion (e.g., CLAMP) or components of the rhoptry exocytic machinery (e.g., Nd9, RASP2) are defective in their ability to induce the perforation. These data are consistent with a model in which the perforating agents that disrupt host cell membrane integrity during invasion – and may thereby provide the conduit for delivery of rhoptry effector proteins – are stored within the rhoptries themselves and released upon contact with the host cell.
A Small-molecule Antagonist Radiotracer for Positron Emission Tomography Imaging of the Mu Opioid Receptor
Authors: Plakas Konstantinos , Hsieh Chia-Ju , Guarino Dinahlee Saturnino , Hou Catherine , Chia Wai-Kit , Young Anthony , Schmitz Alexander , Ho Yi-Pei , Weng Chi-Chang , Lee Hsiaoju , Li Shihong , Graham Thomas J.A. , Mach Robert H.
Published: October 2024

The opioid crisis is a catastrophic health emergency catalyzed by the misuse of opioids that target and activate the mu opioid receptor. Traditional radioligands used to study the mu opioid receptor are often tightly regulated owing to their abuse and respiratory depression potential. In the present study, we sought to design and characterize a library of 24 non-agonist ligands for the mu opioid receptor. Ligands were evaluated for the binding affinity, intrinsic activity, and predicted blood-brain barrier permeability. Several ligands demonstrated single-digit nM binding affinity for the mu opioid receptor while also demonstrating selectivity over the delta and kappa opioid receptors. The antagonist behavior of1Aand3Aat the mu opioid receptor indicate that these ligands would likely not induce opioid-dependent respiratory depression. Therefore, these ligands can enable a safer means to interrogate the endogenous opioid system. Based on binding affinity, selectivity, and potential off-target binding, [11C]1Awas prepared via metallophotoredox of the aryl-bromide functional group to [11C]methyl iodide. The nascent radiotracer demonstrated brain uptake in a rhesus macaque model and accumulation in the caudate and putamen. Naloxone was able to reduce [11C]1Abinding, though the interactions were not as pronounced as naloxone’s ability to displace [11C]carfentanil. These results suggest that GSK1521498 and related congeners are amenable to radioligand design and can offer a safer way to query opioid neurobiology.
DNA polymerase η is regulated by mutually exclusive mono-ubiquitination and mono-NEDDylation
Authors: Moreno Natália Cestari , Korchak Emilie J. , Latancia Marcela Teatin , D’Orlando Dana A. , Adegbenro Temidayo , Bezsonova Irina , Woodgate Roger , Ashton Nicholas W.
Published: October 2024

DNA polymerase eta (Pol η) is a Y-family translesion polymerase responsible for synthesizing new DNA across UV-damaged templates. It is recruited to replication forks following mono-ubiquitination of the PCNA DNA clamp. This interaction is mediated by PCNA-interacting protein (PIP) motifs within Pol η, as well as by its C-terminal ubiquitin-binding zinc finger (UBZ) domain. Previous work has suggested that Pol η itself is mono-ubiquitinated at four C-terminal lysine residues, which is dependent on prior ubiquitin-binding by its UBZ domain. Here, we show that Pol η can be modified at the same lysine residues by the ubiquitin-like protein, NEDD8. Like ubiquitination, this modification is driven by non-covalent interactions between NEDD8 and the UBZ domain. While only a small proportion of Pol η is mono-NEDDylated under normal conditions, these levels rapidly increase by inhibiting the COP9 signalosome, suggesting that mono-NEDDylation is maintained under strong negative regulation. Finally, we provide data to support that mono-ubiquitination is important for Pol η foci formation and suggest that NEDDylation disrupts this process. These results reveal a new mechanism of Pol η regulation by ubiquitin-like proteins.
Synergistic Role of Amino Acids in Enhancing mTOR Activation Through Lysosome Positioning
Authors: Kolaczkowski Oralia M. , Goodson Baley A. , Montenegro Vazquez Valeria , Jia Jingyue , Qadir Bhat Aadil , Kim Tae-Hyung , Pu Jing
Published: October 2024

Lysosome positioning, or lysosome cellular distribution, is critical for lysosomal functions in response to both extracellular and intracellular cues. Amino acids, as essential nutrients, have been shown to promote lysosome movement toward the cell periphery. Peripheral lysosomes are involved in processes such as lysosomal exocytosis, cell migration, and metabolic signaling—functions that are particularly important for cancer cell motility and growth. However, the specific types of amino acids that regulate lysosome positioning, their underlying mechanisms, and their connection to amino acid-regulated metabolic signaling remain poorly understood. In this study, we developed a high-content imaging system for unbiased, quantitative analysis of lysosome positioning. We examined the 15 amino acids present in cell culture media and found that 10 promoted lysosome redistribution toward the cell periphery to varying extents, with aromatic amino acids showing the strongest effect. This redistribution was mediated by promoting outward transport through SLC38A9-BORC-kinesin 1/3 axis and simultaneously reducing inward transport via inhibiting the recruitment of Rab7 and JIP4 onto lysosomes. When examining the effects of amino acids on mTOR activation—a central regulator of cell metabolism—we found that the amino acids most strongly promoting lysosome dispersal, such as phenylalanine, did not activate mTOR on their own. However, combining phenylalanine with arginine, which activates mTOR without affecting lysosome positioning, synergistically enhanced mTOR activity. This synergy was lost when lysosomes failed to localize to the cell periphery, as observed in kinesin 1/3 knockout (KO) cells. Furthermore, breast cancer cells exhibited heightened sensitivity to phenylalanine-induced lysosome dispersal compared to noncancerous breast cells. Inhibition of LAT1, the amino acid transporter responsible for phenylalanine uptake, reduced peripheral lysosomes and impaired cancer cell migration and proliferation, highlighting the importance of lysosome positioning in these coordinated cellular activities. In summary, amino acid-regulated lysosome positioning and mTOR signaling depend on distinct sets of amino acids. Combining lysosome-dispersing amino acids with mTOR-activating amino acids synergistically enhances mTOR activation, which may be particularly relevant in cancer cells.
Entrepreneurial potential in digital transformation: scale development using item response theory
Authors: Prando Lidia Tiggemann , Schmitt Jeovani , Mendonça Anny Key de Souza , Rosa Fabrícia S. , Lunkes Rogério João , Bornia Antonio Cezar , Andrade Dalton Francisco de
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop a scale using item response theory (IRT) to assess the entrepreneurial potential for digital transformation in Brazilian companies.

Design/methodology/approach

IRT was used to develop a scale for entrepreneurial potential in digital transformation. This scale was constructed from a questionnaire, covering the domains: (1) data-driven culture, (2) openness to knowledge and adaptation to change, (3) connectivity and (4) creativity and innovation. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 216 entrepreneurs from small business enterprise (SBE) and startups in Brazil.

Findings

A questionnaire was developed and validated to assess the latent trait of entrepreneurial potential within the context of digital transformation. Additionally, a three-level scale of entrepreneurial potential was established: low (level I), intermediate (level II) and high (level III). The interpretation of this scale provides valuable information on which domains, such as data-driven culture, innovation, among others, can be enhanced to improve the potential of entrepreneur for digital transformation.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was limited to small Brazilian companies and startups, which may restrict the applicability of the results to other business or geographic contexts. Additionally, the items evaluated in the scale may not fully capture all nuances of entrepreneurial potential for digital transformation. Future research should consider including new items that cover a broader range of entrepreneurial characteristics.

Practical implications

The findings of this study have significant practical implications for the Brazilian entrepreneurial ecosystem, the entrepreneurs themselves, public policy makers and entrepreneurship support institutions. These results can guide digital transformation strategies, adjustments in public policies and investments, thereby promoting economic development and innovation in the country.

Originality/value

This study stands out for using IRT as a robust methodology to develop an interpretative scale to assess entrepreneurial potential in the digital transformation era. By focusing on Brazilian SBEs and startups, the study offers an original contribution on how these companies are handling the challenges of digitalization and identifying areas for improvement to further promote digital transformation among entrepreneurs.
Impact of collective knowledge on individual research competence: exploring the mediating influence of knowledge management processes
Authors: Rani Shiva , Devi Elangbam Binodini
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the impact of collective knowledge on individual research competence. Further, the study investigates the mediation effect of the knowledge management process (KMP).

Design/methodology/approach

The cross-sectional study adopts a quantitative conclusive research design. The study collects data specifically from academicians of Uttarakhand higher education institutions (HEIs). The study uses random sampling because the list of faculty members is uploaded on the website of the university portal. The author directly sends the questionnaire to the email of the respondents and uses social media platforms. For the data analysis, the study used SMART-PLS 4.0.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal that KM infrastructure (KMI) and KM strategy directly impact KMP. The study also reveals that the KMP significantly impacts individual research competence. The current study also finds partial mediation support among KMI, KMP and individual research competence, and between KM strategy, KMP and individual research competence.

Research limitations/implications

The current study uses a cross-sectional research design, future studies may include the longitudinal design to measure the effect of KM elements on individual research competence. The current study includes the data from the Uttarakhand region only, and it is difficult to generalize the results specifically to other states.

Practical implications

The study emphasizes the importance of KM system development, a supportive KMI and a balanced KM strategy in HEIs.

Originality/value

Investigating collective knowledge’s impact on individual research competence, this study unveils mediation in KMP. Future research can broaden horizons by using the model.
AR atmospherics and virtual social presence impacts on customer experience and customer engagement behaviours
Authors: Zeng Ni , Ryding Daniella , Vignali Gianpaolo , Pantano Eleonora
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Few studies have examined technology-enhanced atmospheres for strengthening customer experience and brand engagement in physical store settings. This study builds on the social presence theory to test for the first time the moderating effects of virtual social presence on customer responses, through AR adoption in-store. Our study aims to understand the impact of technology-enhanced in-store atmospherics (TEISAs) with emphasis on AR elements and virtual social presence on customer experience and engagement behaviours (CEBs) in luxury settings.

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses are developed and a survey using 566 responses were collected using Qualtrics. T-tests, two-way ANOVA and structural equation modelling were used for analysis of CEBs. Moreover, using PLS-SEM, we test whether virtual social presence moderates this relationship in a cross-country context; Britain and China, two of the largest economies for luxury growth.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that TEISAs have a positive impact on emotion and perceived value, with virtual social presence moderating this relationship. The cross-cultural comparison results show that the impact of TEISAs on emotion and perceived value is stronger for British than for Chinese millennials.

Originality/value

Our model is the first to incorporate technology into various store atmospherics, to employ virtual social presence as a new moderator, and to provide empirical evidence on the effects of AR on customer experience and CEBs in the real-time luxury retail environment. This study is also the first to consider virtual social presence on social media as a moderating variable.
The dynamic relationship between ASEAN+6 exchange rates and stock markets: application of the ARDL model
Authors: Chancharat Surachai , Suwannapak Suthasinee
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the short- and long-run relationship between stock prices and exchange rates in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)+6 markets. In the short run, support is found for both the theory of a goods market where exchange rates influence stock returns and portfolio balance theory, where stock returns influence exchange rates.

Design/methodology/approach

The co-integration approach of linear and nonlinear augmented autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models was applied to daily data from 2 January 2017 to 30 June 2023.

Findings

The findings provide evidence that the goods market theory is supported solely in Indonesia and Singapore, while the portfolio balance theory is supported for Australia, China, India and Malaysia.

Practical implications

Policymakers and investors should seriously consider the importance of the study findings. The results show that all ASEAN+6 countries experience a short-term interaction between the two markets. This illustrates that exchange rates and stock price movements play vital roles in other markets. Stakeholders, particularly policymakers, should be aware of this critical relationship.

Originality/value

This is the first study to dynamically examine how the ASEAN+6 framework influences currency rates and stock markets.
Cotton market contagion: analyzing volatility spillovers across borders
Authors: Soni Tarun K. , Pandey Vikas , Aggarwal Priti
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The paper analyzes the volatility transmission within the cotton markets by utilizing commodity futures prices from the USA, China and India, encompassing important global events that have significantly influenced the global cotton markets, like the China-USA trade dispute, the COVID-19 outbreak and the Russia–Ukraine conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ a volatility spillover measure developed by Diebold and Yilmaz (2009, 2012, 2014). Additionally, the methodology proposed by Baruník and Křehlík (2018), which divides the overall volatility spillover into short, medium and long-term segments has been used. To investigate the volatility connectedness, weekly (close-to-close) returns of the cotton futures contracts that are traded on the Chicago Board of Trade Dalian Commodity Exchange National Commodity Exchange of India (NCDEX), and Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) are considered.

Findings

The paper identifies the presence of long-term volatility transmission among the three cotton futures markets. It demonstrates that a global shock like the Russia–Ukraine conflict has a greater impact on volatility in other markets than USA–China trade disputes. It also highlights the weakening role of the US cotton futures markets as a price leader for Indian and Chinese markets.

Research limitations/implications

Since only three major markets have been studied, the future studies can explore the interconnectedness by including other important markets including Brazil, Turkey, Bangladesh, etc. Further, the moderating role of relationship between other important variables such as cotton production, harvest, inventory, exchange rate, oil price, trade policies, etc. can be examined. Furthermore, the interconnectedness with the regional spot markets in India can also be examined to study how the volatility from the futures market can affect the volatility in the spot markets and vice-versa.

Practical implications

The understanding of domestic food price volatility and its transmission from international to domestic markets is crucial for designing effective policies to address excessive volatility and protect vulnerable groups like producers, consumers, etc.

Social implications

The findings emphasize on the substantial market dependence with the US and the Chinese markets which have a significant impact on the Indian markets with considerable implications for hedgers, producers and exporters, particularly during periods of higher volatility.

Originality/value

This study assesses the interdependencies among three major cotton-producing countries and the influence of factors like the USA–China trade tensions in 2018, the COVID-19 crisis and the Russia–Ukraine conflict in order to gauge the degree of volatility interconnection among these key players in the cotton market.
Automated long‐term monitoring of RFID‐tagged individuals reveals high hibernaculum site fidelity in Daubenton's bats and Natterer's bats
Authors: Meier F. , Grosche L. , Krivek G. , Runkel V. , Scheuerlein A. , Kerth G. , van Schaik J.
Published: October 2024

In the temperate zone, many bat species depend on underground sites during the autumn mating period and as hibernacula in winter. Anthropogenic or natural alteration or destruction of a hibernaculum may severely threaten the bats that rely on the site, especially if they are not aware of suitable alternatives. Currently, the rate at which bats visit other hibernacula, or disperse between them, is poorly understood. Here, we studied hibernation site fidelity in two European bat species, Daubenton's bat (Myotis daubentonii) and Natterer's bat (Myotis nattereri), that share hibernacula but differ in their hibernation phenology and mating systems. The activity of over 2500 RFID‐tagged individuals was monitored using an automated recording system at the entrances of three hibernacula over eight full years. Hibernation site fidelity was high in both species, with only 1.6% of Daubenton's bats and 4.1% of Natterer's bats moving between the monitored sites during their lifetimes. Juvenile bats moved more frequently than adults and contrary to our expectations, in Natterer's bats, more females moved between hibernacula than males. Movements almost always occurred during the autumn mating season, and more frequently between neighboring hibernacula than between distant sites. Finally, we also found that individuals rarely explored more than one of the three entrances to a site, despite their close proximity. Taken together, our results suggest that some juvenile bats may explore multiple sites, but that they rarely disperse to other hibernacula as adults. As a result, most individuals are either not aware of alternative sites or do not regularly update this information. We therefore argue that the creation of new underground objects as a mitigation measure may not function as an immediate compensation for the disturbance or the loss of an existing hibernaculum. Instead, the proactive identification and protection of existing hibernacula should be prioritized.
PRP Influences Maturation and Fertilisation of Immature Mouse Oocytes
Authors: Alaee Sanaz , Zal Fatemeh , Razban Vahid , Talaei‐Khozani Tahereh , Shokri Saeed , Khodabandeh Zahra
Published: October 2024

In vitro maturation (IVM) of immature oocytes is a valuable method to enhance the rate of mature oocytes available for fertilisation. In the current study, platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) was employed in IVM medium of immature oocytes. Harvested germinal vesicle stage oocytes with cumulus cells from female mature BALB/c mice divided into two groups of control and experiment. In the experimental group, GV oocytes matured in the IVM medium supplemented with 5% PRP, while in the control group, GV oocytes matured in the IVM medium without PRP. The percentage of GV, MI, MII and degenerated oocytes, zona pellucida thickness, perivitelline space size, diameter of mature oocytes, gene expression of apoptosis‐related factors and subsequent development of matured oocytes were assessed. The PRP group displayed significantly improved outcomes in various parameters, including a higher proportion of MII and fertilised oocytes, cleavage and blastocyst embryos, compared to the control group. Moreover, the thickness of the zona pellucida was significantly lower in the PRP group than in the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the PRP group demonstrated a significant decrease in the expression of transcripts associated with apoptosis (Bax and caspase‐3); however, in the PRP group, a substantial increase in the expression of Bcl2l1, an apoptosis inhibitor, was observed when compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, addition of PRP to the IVM culture media significantly increased oocyte maturation rate, leading to improved fertilisation and subsequent embryonic development. This enhancement highlights the positive influence of PRP on overall in vitro maturation efficiency and early embryonic stages.
The Devils in the Details—but So Are the Angels: Linear Density Estimates of Harpagophytum zeyheri (Devil's Claw) From the Zambezi Region, Namibia
Authors: Cunningham Peter Low , Cunningham Peter Low , Honsbein Dagmar
Published: October 2024

Harpagophytum zeyheri (devil's claw) tubers are manually harvested for its pharmaceutical properties (anti‐inflammatory) in the sandier regions, especially the communal areas in north‐eastern Namibia, with various authors having questioned the sustainability and viability of current harvesting practices. Although regulation in the form of a quota system is implemented, this is not based on scientifically established density estimates or sustainable harvesting quotas. There is a dearth of published data regarding density estimates for H. zeyheri from Namibia. The average linear density from the Zambezi Region (all areas; this study) is 22.4 plants/km while other estimates from Namibia for H. procumbens vary between < 1 and 2000 plants/ha. The aim of this study was to contribute to the poorly known distribution and density of H. zeyheri from the Zambezi Region where most of Namibia's resource for the export market originates from and to highlight the potential threat of not conducting scientifically based preharvest counts on sustainability of this valuable resource.
How to Make Your African Ecology Paper Stand Out to a Global Audience
Authors: Luiselli Luca
Published: October 2024

The discovery of the South East Africa Montane Archipelago has unveiled a biologically significant ecoregion with a high level of endemism, showcasing at least 127 endemic plants and 45 endemic vertebrates, including unique genera of both plants and reptiles. This remarkable find highlights Africa's ongoing contributions to global ecological knowledge, despite often being underrepresented in the international research sphere due to biases and marginalisation. To address these issues and enhance the visibility and impact of African ecological research, this Editorial outlines several key strategies. First, it emphasises the importance of making hypothesis‐driven research in ecological studies, following Popper's philosophy of science. Second, it advocates for generalising research findings to broader contexts rather than focusing narrowly on local specifics. Additionally, it underscores the need use clear, generalised terminology and producing detailed, context‐rich maps, so that the authors can enhance the comprehensibility and appeal of their research. Finally, the Editorial highlights the growing influence of African ecology, as evidenced by that the difference in impact factor between AJE and major international general ecology journals has decreased greatly. The Editorial also suggests that by adopting the strategies highlighted herein, African ecologists can further elevate their global presence and contribute more substantially to the field.
Outcomes of frail patients undergoing high‐dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma
Authors: Yohay Stephanie , Oloyede Temitope , Kim Soyoung , Fang Xi , Dhakal Binod , Aijaz Ayesha , Mohan Meera , Narra Ravi , Pasquini Marcelo , D'Souza Anita , Hamadani Mehdi , Freeman Ciara Louise , Akhtar Othman Salim
Published: October 2024

In patients with multiple myeloma (MM) not‐eligible for autologous haematopoietic cell transplantation (autoHCT), a simplified frailty index (SFI) identifies frail patients at risk for poor outcomes, but data are limited for transplant‐eligible patients. In this registry‐based retrospective study, we used an adapted version of the SFI to determine the prevalence of frailty in patients ≥65 years of age with MM undergoing autoHCT. Out of 5563 patients, 37.9% of patients were classified as frail and although they had increased non‐relapse mortality (NRM) and inferior overall survival, the NRM at 100 days remained low (<2%) compared with non‐frail patients.
Clinical significance and underlying mechanism of long non‐coding RNA SNHG12 in lower extremity deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Xiao Shun , Wang Chong , Li Yongxin , Zhang Kun , Jiao Xuefei , Zhao Zonggang , Guo Mingjin , Liu Bing
Published: October 2024

D‐dimer is widely used in the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), but the specificity is low. The study examined the diagnostic value of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) SNHG12 in DVT, and preliminarily discussed its mechanism. SNHG12 levels were detected in 200 elderly fracture patients via RT‐qPCR, including 38 DVTs. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were applied for diagnostic value evaluation. HUVECs were used for function study. Cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, release of inflammatory cytokines, and adhesion factors were detected. Student's t test and one‐way ANOVA were applied for data comparison between two or among three or more groups. Correlation analysis of indicators was completed via Pearson's correlation analysis. Bioinformatics analysis predicted the target miRNAs and genes of SNHG12, with GO and KEGG for the function enrichment. It was found that SNHG12 was at low expression in DVT patients, and negatively correlated with D‐dimer concentration (r = −0.535). SNHG12 and D‐dimer were independent influence factors related to the development of DVT. SNHG12 and D‐dimer combination had the best performance in DVT diagnosis. In HUVECs, SNHG12 promoted cell proliferation and migration and restricted the release of inflammatory cytokines and adhesion factors, but these influences were counteracted by miR‐424‐5p. A total of 208 overlapping target genes of miR‐424‐5p were identified, and their function was enriched in cellular cycle and senescence. PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway was the most significant pathway based on KEGG results. In conclusion, SNHG12 had good diagnostic potential for DVT combined with D‐dimer. SNHG12 maintains vascular endothelial cell function by acting as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR‐424‐5p.
Family resources, resilience beliefs, and parental adaptation: A moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Brik Anis Ben , Wang Yunqi
Published: October 2024

Despite the extensive body of evidence documenting how pandemic‐related stressors (e.g., disruptions in daily routine) impact individuals' mental health, research examining family mechanisms through which stressors impact parental stress remains insufficient. The present study aims to address this gap by exploring a moderated mediation model that predicts parental stress resulting from the accumulation of pandemic‐related stressors. Specifically, we hypothesized a second‐stage moderated mediation model in which family resilience beliefs moderated the second‐stage indirect paths through family relationships and marital satisfaction, resulting in conditional indirect effects. Study data were collected from American parents (n = 1386). There was no evidence that family relationships and marital satisfaction mediated the association between stressor pile‐up and parent stress. In addition, family resilience beliefs did not significantly impact how marital satisfaction or family relationships affect parental stress. However, marital satisfaction mediated the relationship between stressor pile‐up and parental stress across all levels of family resilience beliefs. The findings of this study carry significant implications for post‐pandemic family interventions, suggesting the incorporation of resilience belief training and stress management strategies to improve intrafamilial communication.
Novel narrowband emitting red phosphor Sr3La2W2O12:Eu3+ with excellent thermal stability for WLEDs
Authors: Wang Fei , Chen Huihui , Zhang Shiwei , Jin Huiqing
Published: October 2024

The development of red phosphors with good thermal stability, high quantum yield and high color purity is still a big challenge. In this work, a series of novel red phosphors Sr3La2W2O12:xEu3+ (0≤x≤0.18, ∆x = 0.03) were successfully prepared by high‐temperature solid‐phase method. The phosphors reveal a hexagonal phase with the space group of R‐3 m. The phosphor Sr3La2W2O12:Eu3+ produced narrowband red emission from 5D0→7F2 of Eu3+ (616 nm) under excitation at 395 nm, 465 nm, and 533 nm. Importantly, phosphor Sr3La2W2O12:0.09Eu3+ exhibits astonishing quantum efficiency (IQE = 89.60%, EQE = 41.52%), and it demonstrate robust thermal performance with the emission intensity retaining 92.73% at 558 K of that at 298 K. Finally, the prepared red phosphor Sr3La2W2O12:0.09Eu3+ and yellow phosphor YAG:Ce3+ were combined with a blue LED chip (460 nm) to form a WLED device, which presented warm white light with color coordinates of (0.3523, 0.3732), color rendering index of 83.7, and color temperature of 4826 K.
Thermal cycling and steam corrosion behavior of Yb3Al5O12‐based multilayered environmental barrier coatings for SiCf/SiC
Authors: Huang Yan , Zhao Kuangyi , Dong Shujuan , Lü Kaiyue , Jiang Jianing , Deng Longhui , Chen Wenbo , Cao Xueqiang
Published: October 2024

To alleviate thermal mismatch problem of environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) on SiC fiber‐reinforced SiC ceramic matrix composites (SiCf/SiC CMCs) surface and improve their high‐temperature durability for aircraft engines, by fully utilizing the appropriate thermal expansion coefficient, low oxygen transmittance, low thermal conductivity, and other advantages of ytterbium aluminum garnet (Yb3Al5O12), the double ceramic layered Yb3Al5O12/Yb2Si2O7 (DCL‐Yb3Al5O12) and the triple ceramic layered Yb3Al5O12/Yb2SiO5/Yb2Si2O7 (TCL‐Yb3Al5O12) EBC systems were prepared on SiCf/SiC CMCs by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS). Their phase composition and microstructures were investigated comparatively. The thermal cycling and water vapor/oxygen corrosion behavior of these coating systems were compared at 1300°C. The results showed that the thermal cycling life of the DCL‐Yb3Al5O12 and TCL‐Yb3Al5O12 EBC systems were 295 and 320 times, respectively. The failure of both the coating systems occurred between the Yb2Si2O7 layer and Si bond coat. The strength retention rate of DCL‐Yb3Al5O12 and TCL‐Yb3Al5O12 EBC systems after water vapor/oxygen corrosion for 70 h was 12.8% and 23.1%, respectively, and the fracture modes of both the systems exhibited “pseudoplastic” characteristic. TCL‐Yb3Al5O12 EBC systems with a gradient structure of more layers exhibit more excellent high‐temperature durability than DCL‐Yb3Al5O12 EBCs.
Climate Predicts NDVI Better Than Plant Functional Group Attributes Along a Latitudinal Gradient in Nunavik
Authors: Gaspard Anna , Boudreau Stéphane
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study aims to describe the latitudinal pattern in plant functional groups' (PFGs') biomass and cover in Nunavik to test whether PFG attributes are better Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) predictors than climate.

Location

The study spans a 700‐km latitudinal gradient from the lichen woodland to prostrate shrub tundra vegetation zones across Nunavik, Canada.

Taxon

Our analysis focuses on the following PFGs: erect and prostrate shrubs, herbaceous plants, bryophytes, and lichens.

Methods

Biomass and cover data of the different PFGs were sampled in 40 sites distributed across the latitudinal gradient. NDVI data were obtained through remote sensing, while climatic, permafrost depth, and surficial deposits were derived from various databases. The PFG models were built to explore relationships between average NDVI (2016–2020) at the sampling site and ecological attributes such as PFG biomass or cover but also other variables such as surficial deposits and permafrost depth. A second series of models, the climatic models, were built using only climatic variables such as seasonal temperature and precipitation.

Results

The most parsimonious PFG model was built with the biomass data of erect shrubs, herbaceous plants, bryophytes, and lichens and included surficial deposits and permafrost depth (R2 = 0.74). This biomass model performed better than the most parsimonious cover model (cover of erect shrubs and herbaceous, surficial deposits, permafrost depth; R2 = 0.63). However, the most parsimonious climatic model (fall temperature, annual, and winter precipitations) exhibited superior predictive power compared to the ecological ones (R2 = 0.87).

Conclusions

PFG models built with PFGs aboveground biomass or cover are good predictors of NDVI of the plant formations sampled along the latitudinal gradient in Nunavik. Despite the intrinsic association between NDVI and vegetation attributes, our study emphasizes the importance of the regional climate in the control of primary productivity in Arctic and subarctic ecosystems. This study provides new insights into the interpretation of NDVI data and enhances our understanding of Arctic vegetation responses under rapid climate change. Furthermore, it underscores the balance between climatic drivers and ecological dynamics in shaping fragile Arctic ecosystems.
Rasch analysis of the perceptions of palliative care instrument (PPCI) in patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Yao Gui Y. , Xu Peng K. , Luo Yan Y. , Sun Jun J. , Guo Hua , Zhang Wen J. , Wu Yi H. , Wang He J. , Liu Kai L.
Published: October 2024

Rationale, Aims, and Objectives

The Perceptions of Palliative Care Instrument (PPCI) is a tool used to access perceptions towards palliative care in patients with advanced cancer. However, its psychometric properties have not been widely tested using modern psychometric methods. This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the PPCI in patients with advanced cancer using Rasch analysis.

Methods

Four hundred and forty four Participants were recruited from the Department of Medical Oncology at a tertiary care hospital in Xinxiang City, Henan Province, China, between October 2020 and February 2021. Participants completed the PPCI. Rasch analysis procedures were conducted, including assessment of unidimensionality, model‐date fit, rating scale function, differential item functioning, item‐person map, and person and item reliability.

Results

The unidimensionality of the PPCI was confirmed, although two items (18 and 21) did not fit the Rasch model. The degree of fit of each item to its respective dimension was excellent, with Infit MNSQ and Outfit MNSQ values ranging from 0.73 to 1.33. The PPCI demonstrated high reliability, with an item reliability of 0.99 and a person reliability of 0.77.

Conclusion

The PPCI is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing perceptions of palliative care in advanced cancer patients. However, to further improve the quality and applicability of the PPCI, the deletion of items 18 and 21 is recommended, as they did not fit the Rasch model.
The effect of superstitions during pregnancy on quality of life and pregnancy adjustment
Authors: Aydınlık Özge , Akın Bihter
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study was planned to determine the effect of superstitions during pregnancy on quality of life and pregnancy adjustment.

Methods

A descriptive and correlational design was employed. Data were collected from all pregnant women who accepted to participate in the study and lived in the Central Anatolia Region in Türkiye between December 2022 and May 2023 (a single region was targeted due to the possibility of cultural diversity between regions). Data collection tools were a Descriptive Information Form, the Prenatal Self‐Evaluation Questionnaire, the Superstitious Belief Scale (SBS), and the SF‐36 Quality of Life Scale. Descriptive, comparative, and multiple regression analyses were performed.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 27.78 ± 5.09. The mean score of the pregnant women was 32.73 ± 11.18 on the total SBS, 155.80 ± 29.37 on the total Prenatal Self‐Evaluation Questionnaire, and 59.27 ± 22.02 on the total SF‐36 Quality of Life Scale. A relationship was observed between superstition and pregnancy adjustment and quality of life. The findings of this study showed that as the superstition level of pregnant women increased, their incompatibility with pregnancy increased and quality of life decreased.

Conclusion

Midwives and other health personnel should be informed and made aware of superstitions and practices that affect maternal and child health and women should be educated about harmful superstitious practices in the prenatal period.
Determining domestic violence against women using machine learning methods: The case of Türkiye
Authors: Başaran Fatma , Duru Pınar
Published: October 2024

Background

Domestic violence against women is a pervasive issue globally, representing a severe violation of human rights and a significant public health concern. The hidden nature of such violence and its frequent underreporting make it a critical area for research. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence offer new avenues for identifying and predicting instances of domestic violence through machine learning (ML) algorithms.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the frequency and risk factors of domestic violence against women using ML methods.

Methods

With a cross‐sectional design, this research was conducted with 630 married women between December 2023 and February 2024. Data were obtained using the ‘Demographic Information Form’ and the ‘HITS Domestic Violence Scale’. Data analysis used six ML algorithms (decision tree, random forest, support vector machine [SVM], logistic regression [LR], Naive Bayes and k‐nearest neighbour).

Results

In our study, the rate of women experiencing violence was determined to be 11%, while the duration of marriage, number of children and level of education were identified as significant risk factors. Threat, insult and injury were common risk factors in all algorithms. SVM and LR algorithms were effective models in predicting violence with a 100% accuracy rate. All ML algorithms' sensitivity ranged from 91.12% to 100%, while specificity ranged from 85% to 100%.

Conclusion

The findings of our study demonstrate that ML algorithms have high accuracy rates in determining the frequency and risk factors of domestic violence against women, indicating that they can be used safely.