bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural basis of self-control
Authors: Lee Ka Eun , Elsey Jacob , Hwang Jaewon , Emeric Erik E. , Stuphorn Veit
Published: February 2024

Humans are often tempted by small, but immediate rewards that seem more attractive than a larger, delayed reward, even when such choices are clearly against one’s own best interest. Resisting this temptation and remaining committed to a long-term goal requires self-control, the ability to inhibit self-defeating behavior. Here, we report evidence that neurons in the Supplementary Eye Field encode self-control of oculomotor behavior. We designed a modified version of the intertemporal choice task that distinguishes states of high and low self-control. Supplementary Eye Field neurons encodes distinct levels of self-control during all stages of the trial, even before any choice targets or a later temptation were presented. Fluctuations in Supplementary Eye Field activity were predictive of the monkeys’ behavioral response to temptation, suggesting Supplementary Eye Field is critical for self-control behaviors. A partially overlapping population predicted the initial choice, revealing a common neuronal mechanism underlying the ability to make prudent choices that are more beneficial in the long run, and the ability to adhere to those choices by exercising self-control and resisting temptation. Our findings suggest that Supplementary Eye Field is part of a neuronal circuit that underlies the capacity for self-control, which is crucial for maintaining and achieving long-term goals.
Weather-related changes in the dehydration of respiratory droplets on surfaces bolster bacterial endurance
Authors: Rasheed Abdur , Parmar Kirti , Jain Siddhant , Chakravortty Dipshikha , Basu Saptarshi
Published: February 2024

Hypothesis

The study shows for the first time a fivefold difference in the survivability of the bacteriumPseudomonas Aeruginosa(PA) in a realistic respiratory fluid droplet on fomites undergoing drying at different environmental conditions. For instance, in 2023, the annual average relative humidity (RH) in London (UK) is 71%, whereas in Delhi (India), it is 45%, showing that disease spread from fomites could have a demographic dependence. Respiratory fluid droplet ejections containing pathogens on inanimate surfaces are crucial in disease spread, especially in nosocomial settings. However, the interplay between evaporation dynamics, internal fluid flow and precipitation and their collective influence on the distribution and survivability of pathogens at different environmental conditions are less known.

Experiments

Shadowgraphy imaging is employed to study evaporation, and optical microscopy imaging is used for precipitation dynamics. Micro-particle image velocimetry (MicroPIV) measurements reveal the internal flow dynamics. Confocal imaging of fluorescently labelled PA elucidates the bacterial distribution within the deposits.

Findings

The study finds that the evaporation rate is drastically impeded during drying at elevated solutal concentrations, particularly at high RH conditions. MicroPIV shows reduced internal flow under high RH conditions. Evaporation rate influences crystal growth, with delayed efflorescence and extending crystallisation times. PA forms denser peripheral arrangements under high evaporation rates and shows a fivefold increase in survivability under low evaporation rates. These findings highlight the critical impact of environmental conditions on pathogen persistence and disease spread from inanimate surfaces.

Graphical abstract
WITHDRAWN: Rules of departure: Antiphony and personalized vocal spaces in wild male elephant group coordination
Authors: Rantsiou Emmanouela
Published: February 2024

Withdrawal Statement

Earlier versions of this article were removed following a DMCA takedown notice of copyright infringement. If the issue has since been resolved, a newer version of the article will be available via the Info/History tab above.
Progressive cell fate specification in morphallactic regeneration
Authors: Nuninger Clara , Papasaikas Panagiotis , Ferralli Jacqueline , Smallwood Sebastien , Tsiairis Charisios D.
Published: February 2024

Through regeneration various species replace lost parts of their body. This is achieved either by growth of new structures at the amputation side (epimorphosis), as is the case of axolotl limb regeneration, or through remodeling of the remaining tissue (morphallaxis), as happens inHydra. Whereas work on epimorphic regeneration support a gradual proximal to distal establishment of cell identities, morphallactic regeneration is believed to rely on initial establishment of boundary conditions that organize the re-adjustment of the pattern. Performing single cell RNA sequencing during regeneration inHydra, we revealed the sequence of cells’ transdifferentiation into the missing identities. We provide evidence that morphallaxis proceeds with progressive specification of cell fates, unifying its mechanism with the one found for epimorphosis.
SU(3) breaking effect in the
Zc
and
Zcs
states
Authors: Chen Kan
Published: February 2024

Based on the hadronic resonance picture, we explore a unified framework to describe the observed Zcs and Zc states that are close to the thresholds of the D(*)D¯s(*) and D(*)D¯(*) systems, respectively. We assume that the Zcs(4000) and Zcs(3985) are two different states. Specifically, we assign the Zcs(4000) as the SU(3) partner of the Zc(3900) (JPC=1+−) due to its observation in the J/ΨK channel, the difficulty of this assignment is the large width difference between the Zcs(4000) and the Zc(3900) state. Then the Zcs(3985) should corresponds to the Zc state that is close to the threshold of DD¯* system with JPC=1++, the difficulty of this assignment is the absence of such a Zc state in experiment. We construct the effective potentials of the Zcs and Zc states by analogy with the effective potentials of the leading-order and next-to-leading-order N−N¯ interactions. Then we introduce an SU(3) breaking factor gx to identify the differences between the effective potentials in the Zcs and Zc states. We perform two calculations to discuss the differences and similarities of the Zcs and Zc states. In the first calculation, we show that the above two difficulties can be explained simultaneously by the inclusion of the SU(3) breaking effect. In the second calculation, we show that this framework is promising to simultaneously describe the interactions of the observed Zcs and Zc states that are close to the thresholds of the D(*)D¯s(*) and D(*)D¯(*) systems, respectively.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Motivational drivers and psychological detachment in shaping the work–home interface for Saudi women
Authors: Alsuwailem Maha , Freeney Yseult
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study examines the role of Saudi women’s work motivational drivers on work–home conflict (WHC) and work–home enrichment (WHE). It considers the moderating role of psychological detachment from work during the evening between one workday and the next and how it impacts on the mediating role of WHC and WHE on work performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on self-determination theory and enrichment and depletion perspectives on the work–home interface, the study employs a quantitative lagged study over a period of three consecutive working days, with data collected from 358 Saudi women working in academia.

Findings

Moderated mediation structural equation modelling (MMSEM) analysis reveals that intrinsic motivation is significantly, positively related to WHE and home–work enrichment (HWE), whereas extrinsic motivation is only significantly and positively related to home–work conflict (HWC). Results show that detaching from work weakens the positive association between intrinsic motivation and HWE. In line with predictions, WHE is significantly, positively related to citizenship behaviour towards both individuals and organizations, whilst HWE is significantly related to citizenship behaviour towards individuals only. HWC is only significantly related to citizenship behaviour towards the organisation.

Social implications

The research highlights the enriching experiences for Saudi women, who have the opportunity to pursue a career and highlight benefits of their ongoing empowerment.

Originality/value

This research brings a unique motivational perspective to work–life research and addresses a shortcoming of work–life research in considering an understudied culturally distinct population. It emphasises on the enriching experiences of Saudi women who have the opportunity to pursue a career, highlighting the benefits of their ongoing empowerment.
Does renewable energy promote green economic growth in emerging market economies?
Authors: Chhabra Megha , Agarwal Mansi , Giri Arun Kumar
Published: February 2024

Purpose

While sustainable growth extends the use of resources, it is crucial to explore green growth (GG) that ensures growth sustainability through the adoption of renewable energy. Thus, this study is motivated to investigate the influence of renewable energy on GG in 19 emerging countries spanning a decade and a half (2000–2020). This study aims to provide a quantitative examination of how renewable energy contributes to sustainable economic growth.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses advanced dynamic common correlated effect techniques to assess the long-term effectiveness of renewable energy on GG. Additionally, it uses Dumitrescu and Hurlin causality tests to identify synchronicity between the respective variables.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal that the adoption and utilisation of renewable energy effectively promote GG in emerging economies. However, in contrast, the significantly greater negative influence of trade openness on GG compared to renewable energy highlights the inadequacy and limited impact of cleaner energy alone.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, existing literature predominantly focuses on investigating the relationship between renewable energy and economic growth, with only a limited number of studies exploring the impact on GG. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study would be the first to analyse this relationship in these emerging countries. Furthermore, previous estimation frameworks used in prior studies often overlook the crucial factor of cross-sectional dependence (CSD) among countries. Therefore, this study addresses this issue using a contemporary econometric approach that deals not only with CSD but other biases, like endogeneity, autocorrelation, small sample bias, etc.
Exploring the determinants of (un)ethical decision-making among accountants using PLS-SEM: a developing country context
Authors: Liyanapathirana Nirupika , Low Mary
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the determinants of ethical decision-making (EDM) of professional accountants in Sri Lanka, drawing on Rest’s (1986) four-component EDM model. The level of corporate collapses and fraud, coupled with the high level of corruption in Sri Lanka, has highlighted the importance and the timely nature of this research in the EDM processes of Sri Lankan accountants.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from a sample of 315 accountants through a questionnaire survey that included four written ethical vignettes and was analysed using partial least square-structural equation modelling techniques.

Findings

The findings revealed a significant relationship between ethical awareness and ethical judgement, providing support for Rest’s model. However, the study does not support Rest’s model on the direct relationship between ethical judgement and ethical intention. Intrinsic religiosity and moral intensity significantly influenced the ethical awareness of accountants. Several determinants including accountants’ age, education, intrinsic religiosity, organisational ethical culture, familiarity with the professional ethical code and moral intensity influenced ethical judgement. However, the findings did not report any significant relationships between the study’s variables and ethical intention.

Originality/value

The study adds to the existing literature by providing a bigger picture of how various determinants work together in one EDM model and demonstrating that the EDM of accountants is multifaceted. The new finding on an insignificant relationship between ethical judgement and ethical intention implies that the Rest’s EDM process may be mediated and moderated by other constraints blocking accountants’ intention to act due to various pressures in a corrupt society, Sri Lanka, where accountants operate.
Understanding the role of serial acquisition and subsidiary autonomy in providing value within servitizing industrial networks
Authors: Golgeci Ismail , Kurt Yusuf , Vashchillo-Mollett Ksenia , Goduscheit René Chester , Arslan Ahmad , Yeniaras Volkan
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Research examining the joint role of serial acquisitions and subsidiary autonomy in holistic value provision within servitizing industrial firms is scarce. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the role of serial acquisition and subsidiary autonomy in providing value within servitizing industrial networks.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is developed based on the case study of a large Swedish industrial group specializing in selling industrial products and providing industrial solutions to business customers through its numerous subsidiaries.

Findings

The analysis of 14 interviews with the five subsidiaries and seven customer firms and secondary data reveals interesting findings concerning the role of serial niche acquisition strategy and subsidiary autonomy in customer value provision in servitizing organizations. In particular, the authors find that the role of acquisitions in industrial firms extends beyond growth to customer sensing and proximity. Likewise, the authors find that subsidiary autonomy facilitates value provision to customers in industrial networks.

Originality/value

The paper provides a more nuanced understanding of how serial acquisitions and subsidiary autonomy are intertwined and jointly affect industrial firms’ value provision activities amidst the servitization transition in an intraorganizational network.
Recent temporal dynamics in economics: empirical analyses of annual publications in economic fields
Authors: Bornmann Lutz , Wohlrabe Klaus
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Differences in annual publication counts may reflect the dynamic of scientific progress. Declining annual numbers of publications may be interpreted as missing progress in field-specific knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we present empirical results on dynamics of progress in economic fields (defined by Journal of Economic Literature (JEL), codes) based on a methodological approach introduced by Bornmann and Haunschild (2022). We focused on publications that have been published between 2012 and 2021 and identified those fields in economics with the highest dynamics (largest rates of change in paper counts).

Findings

We found that the field with the largest paper output across the years is “Economic Development”. The results reveal that the field-specific rates of changes are mostly similar. However, the two fields “Production and Organizations” and “Health” show point estimators which are clearly higher than the estimators for the other fields. We investigated the publications in “Production and Organizations” and “Health” in more detail.

Originality/value

Understanding how a discipline evolves over time is interesting both from a historical and a recent perspective. This study presents results on the dynamics in economic fields using a new methodological approach.
Spoken service language for customer well-being in a transformative service context: residential aged care
Authors: Scerri Madalyn Anne , Presbury Rajka
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Spoken service language is critical for service experiences and human welfare in many service settings. However, little is known about how spoken service language can enhance customer well-being in transformative service contexts. This paper explores spoken service language and well-being for customers experiencing vulnerability in a transformative service context, informed by an empirical account of the human welfare service of residential aged care.

Design/methodology/approach

Situated within transformative service research (TSR), this study was guided by a theoretical framework of service language and adopts a strengths-based approach to customer experiences of vulnerability. A qualitative multiple case study methodology was applied to explore carers’ perspectives on spoken service language and well-being from three residential aged care homes in Australia.

Findings

The findings demonstrate five spoken service language practices and four principles of spoken service language for well-being that co-create customer well-being and support the alleviation of customer experiences of vulnerability. Conceptualised as transformative spoken service language, the spoken service language practices and principles collectively recognise, support and leverage residents’ capabilities and uplift customer well-being, by enacting a process of mattering highly salient to transformative service contexts.

Originality/value

This study is the first to conceptualise how employee spoken service language can be used to support customer well-being and enhance transformative value for customers experiencing vulnerability to align with the goals of TSR. Practically, the study advocates for a greater awareness and more considered use of transformative spoken service language in human welfare and other transformative service contexts.
The role of artificial intelligence in corporate digital strategies: evidence from China
Authors: Yang Shaohua , Hussain Murtaza , Ammar Zahid R.M. , Maqsood Umer Sahil
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In the rapidly evolving digital economy, businesses face formidable pressures to maintain their competitive standing, prompting a surge of interest in the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation (DT). This study aims to assess the impact of AI technologies on corporate DT by scrutinizing 3,602 firm-year observations listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges. The research delves into the extent to which investments in AI drive DT, while also investigating how this relationship varies based on firms' ownership structure.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the influence of AI technologies on corporate DT, the research employs robust quantitative methodologies. Notably, the study employs multiple validation techniques, including two-stage least squares (2SLS), propensity score matching and an instrumental variable approach, to ensure the credibility of its primary findings.

Findings

The investigation provides clear evidence that AI technologies can accelerate the pace of corporate DT. Firms strategically investing in AI technologies experience faster DT enabled by the automation of operational processes and enhanced data-driven decision-making abilities conferred by AI. Our findings confirm that AI integration has a significant positive impact in propelling DT across the firms studied. Interestingly, the study uncovers a significant divergence in the impact of AI on DT, contingent upon firms' ownership structure. State-owned enterprises (SOEs) exhibit a lesser degree of DT following AI integration compared to privately owned non-SOEs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the burgeoning literature at the nexus of AI and DT by offering empirical evidence of the nexus between AI technologies and corporate DT. The investigation’s examination of the nuanced relationship between AI implementation, ownership structure and DT outcomes provides novel insights into the implications of AI in the diverse business contexts. Moreover, the research underscores the policy significance of supporting SOEs in their DT endeavors to prevent their potential lag in the digital economy. Overall, this study accentuates the imperative for businesses to strategically embrace AI technologies as a means to bolster their competitive edge in the contemporary digital landscape.
The effects of the minimum wage on the corporate social responsibility of tourism enterprises in China
Authors: Wen Tong , Wen Litang , Zeng Yunxi , Zhang Ke
Published: February 2024

Purpose

External institutional policy and its impact on corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been widely discussed by researchers, but its effect still remains controversial. This study aims to use the minimum wage policy as an illustrative example to analyze its impact on the corporate social responsibility (CSR) of tourist enterprises. Furthermore, the research seeks to examine the boundary conditions that influence the minimum wage’s effect on CSR.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes the data of 42 listed tourism companies from 2010 to 2020 in China as samples and uses the mixed OLS regression method and the fixed effects panel model to examine the effect of the minimum wage on CSR.

Findings

Findings show that increasing wages has a significantly negative impact on their total CSR investment. Also, low-operating-capacity enterprises and private enterprises will react more adversely when faced with increasing minimum wages. And found that the increase of minimum wage has no significant negative impact on the strategic social responsibility of tourism enterprises; however, it has a significantly negative impact on their tactical social responsibility. In addition, as far as employees’ rights and interests are concerned, the minimum wage increase has effectively increased employee salaries, but the nonsalary benefits of the employees have significantly decreased.

Originality/value

The contribution of this paper not only expands the research on the antecedents and boundary mechanisms of CSR but also clarifies the specific effect of the rise of the minimum wage on corporate social responsibility; it further deepens the impact of institutional policy factors on CSR, which also opens new perspectives for policy evaluation and provides a theoretical basis for government policymakers.
Synergistic combination of cryoprotectants improved freeze‐dried survival rate and viable counts of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Authors: Ma Wenlong , Li Yinghua , Kang Wenli , Han Yifeng , Yin Boxing , Yang Renqin , Tang Rongxue , Pan Lina , Wang Jiaqi , Li Wei , Huang Yujun , Gu Ruixia
Published: February 2024

Well‐designed cryoprotectants are crucial for successful probiotic application. In this study, based on literature analysis, characteristics and economic analysis of cryoprotectants, the sucrose (8.2%)–skim milk (8.0%)–inulin (8.2%) combination was proposed and optimised to enhance freeze‐drying resistance of probiotics. Survival, viable cell counts and inactivation rate during storage at 4°C of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum grx16 protected by the combination was 94.9%, 1.89 × 1011 cfu/g and 0.0116. The optimised sucrose–skim milk–polymer prebiotics combination could also effectively protect several other probiotics, with the survival rate being 89.2–95.6%. These results will aid in the rational development of synergistic cryoprotectant formulations for probiotics.
Is it safe to give birth with an activated implantable cardioverter–defibrillator: A multicentre observational study
Authors: van der Stuijt Willeke , Kooiman Kirsten M. , de Veld Jolien A. , Pepplinkhuizen Shari , Olde Nordkamp Louise R. A. , Oudijk Martijn A. , Wilde Arthur A. M. , Smeding Lonneke , Knops Reinoud E.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Data and guidelines are lacking, so implantable cardioverter–defibrillators (ICDs) are often deactivated during labour to prevent inappropriate shocks. This study aimed to ascertain the safety of an activated ICD during labour.

Design

An observational study was performed.

Setting

Dutch hospitals.

Population or Sample

A total of 41 childbirths were included of 26 patients who gave birth between February 2009 and November 2018 after receiving an ICD in our tertiary hospital. Five of these childbirths were attended by the research team between December 2018 and August 2020, during which the ICD remained active.

Methods

Groups were made based on ICD status during labour. Patients who gave birth with an activated ICD at least once were stratified to the activated ICD group. Patients' files were checked and patients received a questionnaire about childbirth perceptions and treatment preferences. The differences in ordinal data resulting from the questionnaire were calculated using a chi‐square or Fisher's exact test.

Main outcome measures

Primary outcome was inappropriate ICD therapy and occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias requiring treatment.

Results

During the 41 childbirths, no inappropriate shocks or ventricular arrhythmias occurred during labour. All patients in the activated ICD group (n = 13) preferred this setting, while 8 of the 13 patients in the deactivated ICD group preferred activation (p = 0.002). Reasons included avoiding hemodynamic monitoring, magnet placement, or labour induction to facilitate technician availability.

Conclusions

This study shows no evidence that labour and birth in women with an activated ICD are unsafe, as there were no ventricular arrhythmias or inappropriate therapy. In addition, most patients prefer an activated ICD during labour.
Group‐based and citizen science on‐farm variety selection approaches for bean growers in Central America
Authors: Occelli Martina , Sellare Jorge , Sousa Kauê De , Dell'Acqua Matteo , Mercado Leida , Paredes Saul , Robalino Juan , Rosas Juan Carlos , van Etten Jacob
Published: February 2024

Participatory approaches for crop variety testing can help breeding teams to incorporate traditional knowledge and consider site‐specific sociocultural complexities. However, traditional participatory approaches have drawbacks and are seldom streamlined or scaled. Decentralized on‐farm testing supported by citizen science addresses some of these challenges. In this study, we compare a citizen science on‐farm testing approach — triadic comparisons of technology options (tricot‐PVS) — with the benchmark state‐of‐the‐art group‐based participatory variety testing approach (group‐PVS) over a set of socioeconomic outcomes. We focus on on‐farm testing of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the Trifinio area of Central America. We measure the impact of these two approaches on bean growers in terms of on‐farm diversification and food security. We use data from 1978 smallholder farmers from 140 villages, which were randomly assigned to tricot‐PVS, group‐PVS or control. Utilizing a difference‐in‐difference model with inverse probability weighting and an instrumental variable approach, we observe that farmers involved in group‐PVS, and tricot‐PVS had comparable levels of on‐farm varietal diversification with respect to control farmers. Nonetheless, group‐PVS appears to be significantly more effective in boosting household food security, which can be attributed to improved agronomic management of the crops. This study contributes to the next generation of innovations in exploring trait preferences to produce more inclusive, demand‐driven varietal design that democratize participatory varietal selection programs.
Integration of open innovation, circularity and sustainability: A systematic mapping of connections, analysis of indicators and future prospects
Authors: Ahmad Shamraiz , Daddi Tiberio , Iraldo Fabio
Published: February 2024

We carried out this novel study to explore various connections of open innovation (OI) with circular economy (CE) and/or sustainable development (SD) and analyse the maturity of their integration based on various characteristics. We followed a systematic literature review approach to identify, select and analyse studies, published from 2012 to 2023. Our study used various keywords to search for the relevant articles in Scopus and Web of Science databases. After this, we presented the bibliometric, contents and indicators' analyses. Overall, the results revealed that OI approaches were used to enhance business capabilities to circularity and/or sustainability. OI appeared to be linked with all three dimensions of sustainability, whereas CE was more associated with environmental pillar. The study also documented a framework of 75 sustainability variables, with at least 27 indicators related to OI, circularity and sustainability. We evaluated the maturity of indicators and integrating parameters based on their frequent usage. In comparison with environmental and social dimensions, numerous studies lacked in including the economic aspects. Comparatively, more studies were based on micro‐level analysis. Recycling was found to be the most commonly used CE strategy. For OI, inbound model was mostly used, whereas use and disposal life cycle phases were focused more. Overall, there were more environmental indicators that were used more frequently. In a sense, we found the integration of OI, CE and/or SD more mature for environmental category and less for economic aspect. Based on the findings, we outlined various future research directions and practical implications.
Sleep and APOE‐ε4 have a synergistic effect on plasma biomarkers and longitudinal cognitive decline in older adults
Authors: Yu Xianfeng , Zhou Xia , He Zhengbo , He Beiqi , Wan Ke , Wei Min , Guo Tengfei , Han Ying
Published: February 2024

Background

Sleep disorders are prevalent among patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and the APOE ε4 genotype is a key genetic risk factor for sporadic AD. However, the combined effect of the genotype and sleep disorders on cognitive decline remains uncertain.

Methods

A total of 972 participants were drawn from the SILCODE cohort, comprising 655 without the ε4 allele (APOE−) and 317 with ε4 allele (APOE+). Data were collected, including neuropsychological assessments, sleep measurements, plasma biomarkers, and PET imaging. A Sleep Composite Index (SCI) was created, categorizing participants into high risk (Sleep+) and low risk (Sleep−).

Results

Significant predictions of dementia risk associated with plasma p‐tau181, neurofilament light chain (NfL), and SCI. Individuals with both Sleep+ and APOE+ had a higher risk of dementia compared to those with Sleep‐. The Sleep+/APOE+ group had higher plasma NfL levels than the Sleep−/APOE− group. Similar trends emerged in plasma NfL levels among the Aβ PET‐positive subgroup. Plasma NfL levels explained 23% of the relationship between SCI and cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

Our study highlights sleep disorder was associated with cognitive decline, with plasma NfL playing a partial mediating role. These findings explain how sleep disorders affect cognitive function and emphasize the importance of healthy sleep for older adults.
Citrate synthase lysine K215 hypoacetylation contributes to microglial citrate accumulation and pro‐inflammatory functions after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Zhang Fengchen , Lv Tao , Li Jie , Lian Jie , Wu Hui , Jin Yichao , Jia Feng , Zhang Xiaohua
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between microglial metabolism and neuroinflammation by examining the impact of citrate accumulation in microglia and its potential regulation through Cs K215 hypoacetylation.

Methods

Experimental approaches included assessing Cs enzyme activity through Cs K215Q mutation and investigating the inhibitory effects of hesperidin, a natural flavanone glycoside, on citrate synthase. Microglial phagocytosis and expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines were also examined in relation to Cs K215Q mutation and hesperidin treatment.

Results

Cs K215Q mutation and hesperidin exhibited significant inhibitory effects on Cs enzyme activity, microglial citrate accumulation, phagocytosis, and pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression. Interestingly, Sirt3 knockdown aggravated microglial pro‐inflammatory functions during neuroinflammation, despite its proven role in Cs deacetylation.

Conclusion

Cs K215Q mutation and hesperidin effectively inhibited microglial pro‐inflammatory functions without reversing the metabolic reprogramming. These findings suggest that targeting Cs K215 hypoacetylation and utilizing hesperidin may hold promise for modulating neuroinflammation in microglia.
Polysomnographic features associated with clonazepam and melatonin treatment in isolated REM sleep behavior disorder: Time for new therapeutic approaches?
Authors: Mogavero Maria P. , Ferri Raffaele , Marelli Sara , Lanza Giuseppe , Terzaghi Michele , Castelnuovo Alessandra , DelRosso Lourdes M. , Schenck Carlos H. , Ferini‐Strambi Luigi
Published: February 2024

Aims

Although clonazepam (CLO) and melatonin (MLT) are the most frequently used treatments for REM sleep behavior disorder, the polysomnographic features associated with their use are little known. The aim of this study was to evaluate polysomnographic and clinical parameters of patients with idiopathic/isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) treated chronically with CLO, sustained‐release MLT, alone or in combination, and in a group of drug‐free iRBD patients.

Methods

A total of 96 patients were enrolled: 43 drug‐free, 21 with CLO (0.5–2 mg), 20 with sustained‐release MLT (1–4 mg), and 12 taking a combination of them (same doses). Clinical variables and polysomnography were collected.

Results

Although clinical improvement was reported in all groups, MLT impacted sleep architecture more than the other treatments, with significant and large increase in N3 stage, moderate reduction in N2 and REM sleep, and moderate increase in REM latency. CLO moderately increased the percentage of both REM sleep and especially N2, while reducing N1 and wakefulness. Patients treated with both CLO and MLT did not show major changes in sleep architecture.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the administration of MLT or CLO impacts (positively) on sleep parameters of iRBD patients. However, there is a need to better stratify patients, in order to treat them in a targeted manner, depending on the patient's individual sleep architecture and expected differential effects of these agents.
Comparable dynamic cerebral autoregulation and neurovascular coupling of the posterior cerebral artery between healthy men and women
Authors: Chen Hongxiu , Cui Liuping , Chen Songwei , Liu Ran , Pan Xijuan , Zhou Fubo , Xing Yingqi
Published: February 2024

Aims

Most studies focus on dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), and few studies investigated neurovascular coupling (NVC) and dCA in the posterior cerebral artery (PCA). We investigated NVC and dCA of the PCA in healthy volunteers to identify sex differences.

Methods

Thirty men and 30 age‐matched women completed dCA and NCV assessments. The cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and mean arterial pressure were evaluated using transcranial Doppler ultrasound and a servo‐controlled plethysmograph, respectively. The dCA parameters were analyzed using transfer function analysis. The NCV was evaluated by eyes‐open and eyes‐closed (24 s each) periodically based on voice prompts. The eyes‐open visual stimulation comprised silent reading of Beijing‐related tourist information.

Results

The PCA gain was lower than that of the MCA in all frequency ranges (all p < 0.05). Phase was consistent across the cerebrovascular territories. The cerebrovascular conductance index (CVCi) and mean CBFV (MV) of the PCA were significantly higher during the eyes‐open than eyes‐closed period (CVCi: 0.50 ± 0.12 vs. 0.38 ± 0.10; MV: 42.89 ± 8.49 vs. 32.98 ± 7.25, both p < 0.001). The PCA dCA and NVC were similar between the sexes.

Conclusion

We assessed two major mechanisms that maintain cerebral hemodynamic stability in healthy men and women. The visual stimulation‐evoked CBFV of the PCA was significantly increased compared to that during rest, confirming the activation of NVC. Men and women have similar functions in PCA dCA and NCV.
Aberrant microstructural integrity of white matter in mild and severe orthostatic hypotension: A NODDI study
Authors: Cheng Yingzhe , Lin Lin , Jiang Shaofan , Huang Peilin , Zhang Jiejun , Xin Jiawei , Xu Haibin , Wang Yanping , Pan Xiaodong
Published: February 2024

Objective

Scarce evidence is available to elucidate the association between the abnormal microstructure of white matter (WM) and cognitive performance in patients with orthostatic hypotension (OH). This study investigated the microstructural integrity of WM in patients with mild OH (MOH) and severe OH (SOH) and evaluated the association of abnormal WM microstructure with the broad cognitive domains and cognition‐related plasma biomarkers.

Methods

Our study included 72 non‐OH (NOH), 17 MOH, and 11 SOH participants. Across the groups, the WM integrity was analyzed by neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), and differences in WM microstructure were evaluated by nonparametric tests and post hoc models. The correlations between WM microstructure and broad cognitive domains and cognition‐related plasma biomarkers were assessed by Spearman's correlation analysis.

Results

The abnormal WM microstructure was localized to the WM fiber bundles in MOH patients but distributed widely in SOH cohorts (p < 0.05). Further analysis showed that the neurite density index of the left cingulate gyrus was negatively associated with amyloid β‐40, glial fibrillary acidic protein, neurofilament light chain, phospho‐tau181 (p < 0.05) but positively with global cognitive function (MOCA, MMSE, AER‐III), memory, attention, language, language fluency, visuospatial function and amyloid β‐40 / amyloid β‐42 (p < 0.05). Additionally, other abnormal WM microstructures of OH were associated with broad cognitive domains and cognition‐related plasma biomarkers to varying degrees.

Conclusion

The findings evidence that abnormal WM microstructures may present themselves as early as in the MOH phase and that these structural abnormalities are associated with cognitive functions and cognition‐related plasma biomarkers.
Investigating odonates' response to climate change in Great Britain: A tale of two strategies
Authors: O'Neill Daisy , Shaffrey Len , Neumann Jessica , Cheffings Chris , Norris Ken , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: February 2024

Aim

Species are largely thought to maintain broadly static niches over time, an assumption underpinning much theoretical ecology including the implementation of ecological models to project species' current and future distributions. Here, we assess niche conservatism in odonates in Great Britain over the past six decades by simultaneously quantifying changes in species geographic distribution and evaluating temporal trends in species realised climatic niche.

Location

Great Britain.

Methods

Distributional changes were assessed by calculating changes in species distribution centres and deriving occupancy trends. Changes in climatic niches were assessed using a principal component analysis to quantify niche overlap, using information on both climate averages and extremes.

Results

We show that dragonflies and damselflies displayed distinct responses to changing climatic conditions. Dragonflies shifting to higher latitudes maintained, on average, greater consistency in their climatic niches, providing evidence for climate tracking. Greater climate niche flexibility and increased occupancy over time, on the other hand, were more common in damselflies.

Main Conclusions

We unveil evidence for climatic niche divergence in damselflies on a national scale, casting doubt on the relevance of species distribution models for predicting the impacts of climate change on this, and potentially other, groups of species. More broadly, our results call for more multi‐species temporal comparisons of spatial distributions and climate niches during recent periods of changes in climatic conditions to improve our ability to contrast species' vulnerability risk to the ongoing climate crisis.
Impact of disability‐based discrimination in healthcare on parents of children with medical complexity
Authors: Ames Stefanie G. , Delaney Rebecca K. , Delgado‐Corcoran Claudia , Houtrow Amy J. , Alvey Justin , Watt Melissa H. , Murphy Nancy
Published: February 2024

Aim

To qualitatively assess the impact of disability‐based discrimination in healthcare on the parents of children with medical complexity (CMC).

Method

In this qualitative study, we conducted in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with the parents of CMC. Data collection and analysis occurred iteratively; constant comparison methods were used to identify themes describing the impact of disability‐based discrimination in pediatric healthcare on the parents of CMC.

Results

Thirty participants from 15 US states were interviewed. Four themes were developed regarding the impact of disability‐based discrimination in healthcare on parents. The themes were: (1) discrimination leads to a loss of trust in healthcare providers; (2) discrimination increases the burden of caregiving; (3) discrimination impacts parental well‐being; and (4) racism and poverty‐based discrimination amplifies disability‐based discrimination.

Interpretation

The experience of discrimination toward their child results in loss of trust and therapeutic relationship between provider and parent, causes increased burden to the family, and contributes to decreased parental well‐being. These experiences are magnified in minoritized families and in families perceived to have a lower socioeconomic status based on insurance type.
Growing, learning, sharing, and healing through Home Garden Network: A social capital framework
Authors: Eng Sothy , Donoghue Carli , Khun Tricia , Szmodis Whitney
Published: February 2024

Objective

The study addresses two research inquiries: evaluating the effectiveness of the Home Garden Network (HGN) program in attaining its four intended outcomes (learning, growing, sharing, and healing) as well as exploring the social capital mechanisms in facilitating the four outcomes.

Background

Drawing from Coleman's social capital theory, the HGN program was developed in response to common issues many families experience: the lack of family leisure time, dietary‐related health issues, and food insecurity.

Methods

Individual interviews were conducted with eight program participants.

Results

The findings revealed that the program produced the four intended outcomes in which the three forms of social capital (i.e., information channels, reciprocity, and social norms) served as mechanisms that explained the outcomes. Through information channels, participants learned from their network members as well as the program facilitators. Reciprocity is fostered through a system where families take turns assisting each other in growing their gardens, establishing a sense of mutual obligation. Social norms encourage the sharing of produce and plants, reinforcing a collective culture of generosity. Reciprocal relationships further strengthened their interpersonal bonding experiences, providing participants with a sense of group identity and belonging, and hence healing. In addition, families utilize their gardens as a communication starter, establishing social norms of routines and responsibilities that promote family cohesion.

Conclusion

The study validates the HGN program in achieving its learning, growing, sharing, and healing objectives.

Implications

The program offers implementation opportunities for human services organizations and land‐grant universities, aligning with social policies promoting food security and healthy lifestyles.
Recent advances in the molecular understanding of immunoglobulin A
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Xiao Junyu
Published: February 2024

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) plays a crucial role in the human immune system, particularly in mucosal immunity. IgA antibodies that target the mucosal surface are made up of two to five IgA monomers linked together by the joining chain, forming polymeric molecules. These IgA polymers are transported across mucosal epithelial cells by the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor pIgR, resulting in the formation of secretory IgA (SIgA). This review aims to explore recent advancements in our molecular understanding of IgA, with a specific focus on SIgA, and the interaction between IgA and pathogen molecules.
Microtubule‐affinity regulating kinase family members distinctively affect tau phosphorylation and promote its toxicity in a Drosophila model
Authors: Sultanakhmetov Grigorii , Kato Iori , Asada Akiko , Saito Taro , Ando Kanae
Published: February 2024

Accumulation of abnormally phosphorylated tau and its aggregation constitute a significant hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Tau phosphorylation at Ser262 and Ser356 in the KXGS motifs of microtubule‐binding repeats plays a critical role in its physiological function and AD disease progression. Major tau kinases to phosphorylate tau at Ser262 and Ser356 belong to the Microtubule Affinity Regulating Kinase family (MARK1‐4), which are considered one of the major contributors to tau abnormalities in AD. However, whether and how each member affects tau toxicity in vivo is unclear. We used transgenic Drosophila as a model to compare the effect on tau‐induced neurodegeneration among MARKs in vivo. MARK4 specifically promotes tau accumulation and Ser396 phosphorylation, which yields more tau toxicity than was caused by other MARKs. Interestingly, MARK1, 2, and 4 increased tau phosphorylation at Ser262 and Ser356, but only MARK4 caused tau accumulation, indicating that these sites alone did not cause pathological tau accumulation. Our results revealed MARKs are different in their effect on tau toxicity, and also in tau phosphorylation at pathological sites other than Ser262 and Ser356. Understanding the implementation of each MARK into neurodegenerative disease helps to develop more target and safety therapies to overcome AD and related tauopathies.
TGFβR1 inhibition drives hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation through induction of toll‐like‐receptor signalling
Authors: Mohamed Fatma El Zahraa Ammar , Dewidar Bedair , Lin Tao , Ebert Matthias P. , Dooley Steven , Meindl‐Beinker Nadja M. , Hammad Seddik
Published: February 2024

Transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β and toll‐like receptors (TLRs) have been shown to independently modulate the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Since a direct cross‐talk between these two signalling pathways in HCC has not been clearly described before, we aimed here to explore the possibility of such interaction. A human HCC tissue array (n = 20 vs. four control samples), human HCC samples (n = 10) and steatohepatitis‐driven murine HCC samples (control, NASH and HCC; n = 6/group) were immunostained for TGFβR1, pSMAD2, TRAF6, IRAK1 and PCNA. The results were confirmed by immunoblotting. Effects of constant activation of the SMAD pathway by constitutive expression of ALK5 or knockdown of mediators of TLR signalling, IRAK1 and MyD88, on HCC proliferation, were investigated in the HCC cell line (HUH‐7) after treatment with TGFβ1 cytokine or TGFβR1 kinase inhibitor (LY2157299) using PCNA and MTS assay. TGFβR1 expression is decreased in human and murine HCC and associated with downregulated pSMAD2, but increased IRAK1, TRAF6 and PCNA staining. TGFβR1 kinase inhibition abolished the cytostatic effects of TGFβ1 and led to the induction of IRAK1, pIRAK1 and elevated mRNA levels of TLR‐9. Overexpression of ALK5 and knockdown of MyD88 or IRAK1 augmented the cytostatic effects of TGFβ1 on HUH‐7. In another epithelial HCC cell line, that is, HepG2, TGFβR1 kinase inhibitor similarly elevated cellular proliferation. There is a balance between the canonical SMAD‐driven tumour‐suppressing arm and the non‐canonical tumour‐promoting arm of TGFβ signalling. Disruption of this balance, by inhibition of the canonical pathway, induces HCC proliferation through TLR signalling.