bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Site Infection After Sacral Neuromodulation: Impact of Postoperative Antibiotics
Authors: King Luke J. , Ashmore Sarah L. , Chapman Hannah L. , McKenzie Collin M. , Clarke Bayley E. , Rozycki Sarah K. , Rothenberger Rodger W. , Floch Jared M. , Khalid Nageena R. , Roberts Brittany L. , Bonglack Mildred N. , Rardin Charles R.
Published: January 2025

Importance

There are limited data to guide practices to reduce surgical site infections following sacral neuromodulation; however, many surgeons prescribe prophylactic postoperative antibiotics after device implantation.

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare the proportion of patients with sacral neuromodulation device-associated surgical site infections after use of prophylactic postoperative antibiotics versus none.

Study Design

This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing sacral neuromodulation device implantation at 11 institutions from January 2014 to December 2023, comparing outcomes in patients who did versus did not receive prophylactic postoperative antibiotic treatment. The primary outcome was surgical site infection within 90 days. The proportions of surgical site infections were compared, and regression analyses were performed to identify variables associated with surgical site infection.

Results

A total of 1,798 patients met inclusion criteria. Within this population, 67 surgical site infections (3.7%) were identified. Patients who received postoperative antibiotics (898/1798, 49.9%) were older (63.2 years vs 61.0 years, P < 0.001), and a greater proportion had staged procedures (57.9% vs 49.8%, P < 0.001). The proportion of surgical site infections and device explantations were not different between groups (3.6% vs 3.9%, P = 0.8) and (2.0% vs 2.8%, P = 0.2), respectively. After adjusting for age in a multivariate analysis, prophylactic postoperative antibiotic use was not associated with surgical site infections (0.98, 95% CI: 0.61–1.61, P = 0.94).

Conclusions

Rates of surgical site infection following device implantation are low. Our findings suggest that the use of prophylactic postoperative antibiotics has minimal effect on reducing infection after device implantation. Further research is needed to explore underlying factors influencing this relationship.
Memristive ternary Łukasiewicz logic based on reading-based ratioed resistive states (3R)
Authors: Liu Feng , Brackmann Leon , Zhao Xianyue , Du Nan , Waser Rainer , Menzel Stephan
Published: January 2025

The thirst for more efficient computational paradigms has reignited interest in computation in memory (CIM), a burgeoning topic that pivots on the strengths of more versatile logic systems. Surging ahead in this innovative milieu, multi-valued logic systems have been identified as possessing the potential to amplify storage density and computation efficacy. Notably, ternary logic has attracted widespread research owing to its relatively lower computational and storage complexity, offering a promising alternative to the traditional binary logic computation. This study provides insight into the feasibility of ternary logic in the CIM domain using resistive random-access memory (ReRAM) devices. Its multi-level programming capability making it an ideal conduit for the integration of ternary logic. We focus on ternary Łukasiewicz logic because its computational characteristics are highly suitable for mapping logic values with input and output signals. This approach is characterized by voltage-reading-based output for ease of subsequent utilization and computation and validated in 1T1R crossbar arrays in an integrated ReRAM chip (Memory Advanced Demonstrator 200 mm). In addition, the effect of variability of memristive devices on logical computation and the potential for parallel operation are also investigated.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Emerging technologies for future secure computing platforms’.
Effects of hydrogen peroxide treatment on the quality characteristics of sweet potato Tongchaeru stem during the blanching process
Authors: Nam Jung-Hyun , Oh Hyeonbin , Park Bo-Ram , Kim Kyung-Mi , Kim Ha-Yun , Cho Yong Sik
Published: January 2025

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment on the quality characteristics of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.; Tongchaeru) stems during the blanching process. Samples were prepared by blanching in H2O2 solutions ranging from 0 to 1.0%. The color of stem the cultivar, Tongchaeru of sweet potato changed from red to green as the concentration of hydrogen peroxide increased. The L* and b* values tended to increase, while the a* value decreased with higher hydrogen peroxide treatment. The compression force tended to decrease, while the cutting force tended to increase with higher concentrations of H2O2 treatment. Chlorophyll content increased up to 0.8% treatment concentration but decreased when the concentration was over 0.8%. The blanching process reduced total aerobic and coliform group counts in sweet potato stems. Moreover, yeast and mold were not detected. Additionally, no bacteria were detected in the H2O2-added group. Based on these results, it was suggested that H2O2 treatment during the blanching process affects the physicochemical properties and degradation of microbiological counts of the stem of Tongchaeru.
Reconstructing NOD-like receptor alleles with high internal conservation inPodospora anserinausing long-read sequencing
Authors: Ament-Velásquez S. Lorena , Furneaux Brendan , Dheur Sonia , Granger-Farbos Alexandra , Stelkens Rike , Johannesson Hanna , Saupe Sven J.
Published: January 2025

NOD-like receptors (NLRs) are intracellular immune receptors that detect pathogen-associated cues and trigger defense mechanisms, including regulated cell death. In filamentous fungi, some NLRs mediate heterokaryon incompatibility, a self/non-self recognition process that prevents the vegetative fusion of genetically distinct individuals, reducing the risk of parasitism. Thehet-dandhet-eNLRs inPodospora anserinaare highly polymorphic incompatibility genes (hetgenes) whose products recognize different alleles of thehet-cgene via a sensor domain composed of WD40 repeats. These repeats display unusually high sequence identity maintained by concerted evolution. However, some sites within individual repeats are hypervariable and under diversifying selection. Despite extensive genetic studies, inconsistencies in the reported WD40 domain sequence have hindered functional and evolutionary analyses. Here we demonstrate that the WD40 domain can be accurately reconstructed from long-read sequencing (Oxford Nanopore and PacBio) data, but not from Illumina-based assemblies. Functional alleles are usually formed by 11 highly conserved repeats, with different repeat combinations underlying the same phenotypichet-dandhet-eincompatibility reactions. Protein structure models suggest that their WD40 domain folds into two 7-blade β-propellers composed of the highly conserved repeats, as well as three cryptic divergent repeats at the C-terminus. We additionally show that one particularhet-eallele does not have an incompatibility reaction with commonhet-calleles, despite being 11-repeats long. Our findings provide a robust foundation for future research into the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary dynamics ofhetNLRs, while also highlighting both the fragility and the flexibility ofβ-propellers as immune sensor domains.
Detection of RSV using nasopharyngeal swabs alone underestimates RSV-related hospitalization incidence in adults: the Multispecimen study’s Final Analysis
Authors: Begier Elizabeth , Aliabadi Negar , Ramirez Julio , McGeer Allison , Liu Qing , Carrico Ruth , Mubareka Samira , Uppal Sonal , Furmanek Stephen , Zhong Zoe , Hubler Robin , Chandler Thomas , Kassee Caroline , Wilde Ashley , Katz Kevin , Peyrani Paula , Junkins Alan , Vermeiren Christie , Kalina Warren V , Falsey Ann R. , Walsh Edward , Elsobky Malak , Yacisin Kari , Gonzalez Elisa , Jodar Luis , Gessner Bradford D.
Published: January 2025

Background

RSV detection improves if an additional specimen is collected, but the impact of testing saliva and multiple specimen types has not been assessed. We quantified RSV detection increase with multiple specimen collection over nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) alone.

Methods

Prospectively enrolled hospitalized adults aged ≥40 years with acute respiratory illness in seven hospitals in US and Canada had NPS, saliva, sputa, and acute/convalescent sera collected and tested.

Results

Among 3,669 enrolled participants, 100% had NPS, 97.7% saliva, 33.0% sputum, and 33.4% paired serology. RSV detection was 112% higher (95% CI86%−141%) using all specimen types compared to NPS alone. Saliva had higher sensitivity than NPS (61.4% versus 47.2%). Among those with congestive heart failure exacerbations, additional specimens increased RSV detection by 267% (95% CI85%−625%) and saliva detected more infections than NPS. Among 1013 subjects with paired NPS from different timepoints tested on the same platform, specimens collected on average 1 day later detected 30% less RSV infections.

Conclusions

RSV detection increased over 100% using four specimen types versus NPS alone, suggesting a 2-fold correction factor is appropriate for incidence/prevalence studies relying on NPS alone. Saliva is more sensitive than NPS, warranting further study particularly in cardiac patients.
The combination of pimavanserin and atomoxetine reduces obstructive sleep apnea severity: a randomized crossover trial
Authors: Messineo Ludovico , Preuss Madison , Azarbarzin Ali , Vena Daniel , Gell Laura , Aishah Atqiya , Esmaeili Neda , Kim Molly , Burdick Isabel , Chen Tom , White David , Sands Scott A , Wellman Andrew
Published: January 2025

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) pharmacological interventions like the noradrenergic muscle stimulant atomoxetine have wake-promoting properties. Pimavanserin, a promising serotonin 2Areceptor antagonist, may help counteract atomoxetine’s noradrenergic effects by increasing arousal threshold and possibly reduce OSA severity.

Research question

In a randomized, crossover, two-period, double-blind clinical trial, we tested the effect of this drug combination on apnea-hypopnea index (AHI; primary outcome), arousal index and nadir oxygen saturation (SpO2; secondary outcomes).

Study design and methods

Following baselinepolysomnography, 18 OSA participants (AHI>15events/h) took pimavanserin-plus-atomoxetine (34/80mg; 34/40mg for the first 3 days) or placebo for one-week; follow-up polysomnography was performed to provide study outcomes. Safety outcomes, subjective sleep quality, and flow-estimated endotypes (using oronasal pneumotachograph flow) were also explored.

Results

Eleven and seven participants were randomized to atomoxetine-plus-pimavanserin and placebo first, respectively. The combination reduced AHI by 42 [95%CI: 18, 60] % vs. placebo, meeting the primary outcome (P<0.001). Absolute AHI reduction was 16.9 [8.1, 23.6] events/h greater than placebo. Nadir SpO2and arousal index were also improved, by 5.0 [1, 8] %and10.9 [2.4, 18.1] events/h vs. placebo. Overnight heart rate was increased (+4.8 [1.5, 8.1]), but no other change in subjective sleep quality or next-morning vital signs was evident. There was no increased risk for side effects on the combination vs. placebo. Treatment vs. placebo improved pharyngeal collapsibility (+7.9 [1.6, 14.1]%VEUPNEA), reduced loop gain by 20% (0.15 [-0.23, -0.07]), and did not reduce the arousal threshold.

Interpretation

Pimavanserin with atomoxetine is a strong pharmacological therapy candidate for OSA.
Identifying clinical skill gaps of healthcare workers using a digital clinical decision support algorithm during outpatient pediatric consultations in primary health centers in Rwanda
Authors: Karoui Haykel , Rwandarwacu Victor P. , Niyonzima Jonathan , Makuza Antoinette , Nkuranga John B. , D’Acremont Valérie , Kulinkina Alexandra V.
Published: January 2025

Digital clinical decision support algorithms (CDSAs) that guide healthcare workers during consultations can enhance adherence to guidelines and the resulting quality of care. However, this improvement depends on the accuracy of inputs (symptoms and signs) entered by healthcare workers into the digital tool, which relies mainly on their clinical skills, that are often limited, especially in resource-constrained primary care settings. This study aimed to identify and characterize potential clinical skill gaps based on CDSA data patterns and clinical observations. We retrospectively analyzed data from 20,204 pediatric consultations conducted using an IMCI-based CDSA in 16 primary health centers in Rwanda. We focused on clinical signs with numerical values: temperature, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), weight, height, z-scores (MUAC for age, weight for age, and weight for height), heart rate, respiratory rate and blood oxygen saturation. Statistical summary measures (frequency of skipped measurements, frequent plausible and implausible values) and their variation in individual health centers compared to the overall average were used to identify 10 health centers with irregular data patterns signaling potential clinical skill gaps. We subsequently observed 188 consultations in these health centers and interviewed healthcare workers to understand potential error causes. Observations indicated basic measurements not being assessed correctly in most children; weight (70%), MUAC (69%), temperature (67%), height (54%). These measures were predominantly conducted by minimally trained non-clinical staff in the registration area. More complex measures, done mostly by healthcare workers in the consultation room, were often skipped: respiratory rate (43%), heart rate (37%), blood oxygen saturation (33%). This was linked to underestimating the importance of these signs in child management, especially in the context of high patient loads typical at primary care level. Addressing clinical skill gaps through in-person training, eLearning and regular personalized mentoring tailored to specific health center needs is imperative to improve quality of care and enhance the benefits of CDSAs.
Comprehensive Analysis of Metabolic Reprogramming-Associated Key Genes and Immune Microenvironment in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Yan Na , Yang Jiangyong
Published: January 2025

Background

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) represents a profoundly heterogeneous cardiovascular condition; characterized by intricate molecular pathways that have not yet been fully elucidated. This study seeks to uncover metabolic reprogramming-associated key genes (Key Genes) linked to HFpEF, investigate their functional significance and influence on the immune microenvironment, and establish a robust early diagnostic framework.

Methods

We obtained datasets GSE194151 and GSE180065 from the GEO database. In order to counteract batch effects, metabolic reprogramming-related differentially expressed genes (MRRDEGs) were identified by differential expression analysis using the sva R package. Enrichment analysis using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomics (KEGG) elucidated the associated biological functions and pathways. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) were used to examine biological differences within subgroups using risk assessment. Single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was used to measure immune cell infiltration. Protein-protein interaction networks (PPI Networks), mRNA-TF, mRNA-RBP, and mRNA-miRNA interaction networks were used to investigate multilevel regulatory mechanisms. A diagnostic model for HFpEF, constructed using logistic regression, SVM, and LASSO, was validated through ROC analysis and external datasets.

Results

In total, 34 MRRDEGs were identified, significantly enriched in processes like fatty acid metabolism and circadian rhythm regulation. A diagnostic model comprising five Key Genes(Hnrnpd,Hpcal1,Hadha,Hspd1, andNaa10) showed strong performance, withHspd1achieving an Area Under Curve (AUC) > 0.9. The validation using GSE180065 and HFpEF_2020 confirmed the reliability of the model. Immune analysis revealed significant enrichment of Activated CD4 T cells, type 2 T helper cells, and macrophages in the high-risk groups, correlating with specific Key Genes (p < 0.05). GSEA and GSVA linked high-risk groups to TGF-β signaling and fatty acid oxidation. PPI and regulatory network analyses further underscored the functional importance of Key Genes.

Conclusion

Our study systematically identified metabolic reprogramming-related Key Genes and their associations with immune microenvironment changes in HFpEF. These findings reveal the potential mechanisms underlying HFpEF and offer a high-performance diagnostic model, providing novel insights and therapeutic targets for molecular studies and immunotherapy in HFpEF.
Shoulder injuries in elite female cricket players: Insights from 8 seasons
Authors: Pritchard Gordon , Deshmukh Pallavi , Saw Anna E. , Beerworth Kate , Sims Kevin
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To describe the incidence, prevalence, characteristics, and management of shoulder injuries requiring medical attention in elite female cricket players.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Australian state, territory, and national cricket teams between July 2015 and June 2023.

Participants

Elite female cricket players.

Independent variables

Medical attention and general time-loss shoulder injuries.

Main outcome measures

Incidence, prevalence, characteristics, recovery time-frames, activity modifications.

Results

409 shoulder injuries were recorded, with an average incidence of 12.9 per 100 players per season. Gradual onset injuries were most commonly experienced by pace bowlers (51%). Sudden onset injuries were most commonly sustained whilst fielding (69%). Four in five injuries did not require the player to be unavailable to play or train. Modified activities (e.g., throwing, diving, bowling) were typically required for between 2 weeks and 6 months. Players typically returned to full unrestricted match play between 1-8.5 months, longer for recurrent injuries (p=0.007).

Conclusions

Shoulder injuries are a considerable burden in elite female cricket players. Despite only one in five injuries resulting in a player being unavailable to play or train, impaired shoulder function may reduce the overall performance of the player and the team. Risk reduction strategies may be targeted to at risk players (pace bowlers) and activities (throwing and diving) to reduce the burden of shoulder injuries in this cohort. Further consideration may also be given to management strategies to reduce the risk of exacerbations and recurrent injuries which may prolong recovery.
Harnessing glucocorticoid receptor antagonization to enhance the efficacy of cardiac regenerative growth factors and cytokines
Authors: Da Pra Silvia , Boriati Stefano , Miano Carmen , Del Bono Irene , Sacchi Francesca , Bongiovanni Chiara , Aharonov Alla , Pianca Nicola , Tassinari Riccardo , Ventura Carlo , Lauriola Mattia , Tzahor Eldad , D’Uva Gabriele
Published: January 2025

Severe myocardial injuries in mammals lead to cardiomyocyte loss and heart failure. Activation of Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR) by endogenous glucocorticoids limit cardiomyocyte proliferation and cardiac regeneration. Here, we reveal that glucocorticoids suppress the proliferative response of cardiomyocytes to a diverse range of regenerative factors, including Neuregulin 1 (NRG1), FGF1, IGF2, IGF1, BMP7, Oncostatin M (OSM), LIF, RANKL, IL6, IL13, IL4, and IL1-beta.

Transcriptomic analyses revealed that glucocorticoids-GR axis induces the expression of MAPK/ERK pathway inhibitors ERRFI1/MIG6 and DUSP1. Using NRG1 as a model system for cardiac regenerative factors, we demonstrate that glucocorticoids suppress growth factor-induced ERK activation, nuclear translocation, and transcriptional output. Knockdown experiments confirmed that ERRFI1 and DUSP1 are key mediators of glucocorticoid-mediated suppression of cardiomyocyte proliferation induced by growth factors. The cardiac expression of GR target genes, includingDusp1andErrfi1,increases during early postnatal development, coinciding with the transition to post-mitotic cardiomyocytes. In juvenile and adult stage, regenerative growth factors failed to activate MAPK/ERK pathway and induce proliferation effectively; however, DUSP1 inhibition rescues these responses. Consistently, GR antagonization during early postnatal development preserved MAPK/ERK pathway activity. Importantly, GR antagonization or deletion reinstated growth-factor-induced proliferation of postmitotic cardiomyocytes. Finally, GR antagonization enhanced thein vivoeffectiveness of growth factor-based regenerative therapy in an adult mouse model of myocardial injury, enhancing cardiomyocyte proliferation and cardiac function. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized mechanism by which systemic hormones, specifically glucocorticoids, regulate the regenerative potential of cardiac paracrine factors. This study highlights transient glucocorticoid inhibition as a promising strategy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of growth factor-based cardiac regenerative approaches.

Highlights

Physiological glucocorticoids suppress the proliferative response of cardiomyocytes to regenerative growth factors and cytokines.

Glucocorticoids inhibit growth factor-induced MAPK/ERK activation in cardiomyocytes by upregulating the expression of negative regulators DUSP1 and ERRFI1.

Increased glucocorticoid-induced expression of DUSP1 and ERRFI1 during early postnatal development impairs the mitogenic activity of cardiac regenerative factors.

GR antagonization restores growth factor-induced MAPK signaling and mitogenic activity in postmitotic cardiomyocytes and enhances the efficacy of growth factor-based regenerative therapies following myocardial injury.
Ontogeny drives stage-specific effects of a Gata1 mutation
Authors: Sommer Alina , Fischer Stephan , Freyer Laina , Lallemand Yvan , Dardenne Pascal , Gomez Perdiguero Elisa
Published: January 2025

The biography of an organism, including, for instance, its genetic background and exposure to environmental influences, determines the penetrance and expressivity of monogenic diseases between individuals. This also applies at the single-cell level. Interestingly, mature blood and immune cells originate from anatomically and temporally distinct stem and progenitor populations at different stages of development. Here we show that the ontogeny or progenitor origin of megakaryocytes determines their developmental trajectory at the cellular and transcriptional level. As a result, a mutation in the key transcription factor Gata1 dysregulates megakaryopoiesis in an ontogeny-specific manner causing a stage-specific disorder. Particularly, only early extraembryonic hematopoietic progenitors drive blast-like cell development leading to a transient accumulation of megakaryocytes in the fetus but not in the adult. Therefore, pediatric blood disorders may differ functionally from adult diseases due to changing progenitor sources of mature blood and immune cells throughout development.

Highlights

Fetal and adult megakaryopoiesis pass through distinct immunophenotypic stages

Ontogeny of megakaryocytes dictates their unique transcriptional trajectory

Progenitor origin rather than the differentiation pathway determines the effect of mutant Gata1

Block in maturation at the progenitor level causes the accumulation of yolk sac-derived megakaryocytes in the presence of mutant Gata1

Mutant Gata1 drives blast cell formation exclusively in yolk sac-derived lineages
ThePaulinellachromatophore transit peptide part2 adopts a structural fold similar to the γ-glutamyl-cyclotransferase fold
Authors: Klimenko Victoria , Reiners Jens , Applegate Violetta , Reimann Katharina , Hoeppner Astrid , Smits Sander H. J. , Nowack Eva C. M.
Published: January 2025

The chromatophores of the cercozoan amoebaPaulinellaare photosynthetic organelles that evolved from a cyanobacterial endosymbiont. Many nucleus-encoded chromatophore-targeted proteins carry unusual N-terminal targeting signals termed crTPs. The crTPs are bipartite. Whereas crTPpart1that likely mediates trafficking through the secretory pathway is cleaved off during import, crTPpart2remains attached to its cargo protein. The function of crTPpart2is unknown. To contribute to unravel the functional role of crTPpart2, here we elucidated the structures of crTPpart2from two different chromatophore-targeted proteins by X-ray crystallography at ∼2.3 Å resolution. Interestingly, the crTPpart2of both proteins adopts a structural fold. Both structures share a conserved structured core and a flexible N-terminal arm. The structured core resembles proteins of the γ-glutamyl cyclotransferase superfamily within which crTPpart2structures form a novel protein (sub)-family. The proposed catalytic center typical for proteins with cyclotransferase activity is not conserved in crTPpart2. A Cys pair that is conserved in crTPpart2of many chromatophore-targeted proteins has been captured as disulfide bridge. Together, our data suggests that chromatophore-targeted proteins are imported in their folded state and that the fold adopted by crTPpart2plays a functional role during import. The characterization of its structure and flexibility provides important steps towards elucidating this novel protein translocation mechanism.
Melbournevirus encodes a shorter H2B-H2A doublet histone variant that forms structurally distinct nucleosome structures
Authors: Villalta Alejandro , Bisio Hugo , Toner Chelsea M. , Abergel Chantal , Luger Karolin
Published: January 2025

Unique among viruses, some giant viruses utilize histones to organize their genomes into nucleosomes. Melbournevirus encodes a distinct H2B-H2A histone doublet variant in addition to the canonical H4-H3 and H2B-H2A doublets. This viral histone variant has a truncated H2B portion and its amino acid sequence deviates from that of the main viral H2B-H2A throughout the entire coding region. It is less abundant than the main H2B-H2A doublet, is essential for melbournevirus fitness, and is conserved in allMarseilleviridae. The cryo-EM structure of a nucleosome-like particle reconstituted with this H2B-H2A variant and viral H4-H3 reveals that only 90 base pairs of DNA are stably bound, significantly less than in eukaryotic nucleosomes and viral nucleosomes made with the main fused viral histone doublets. The reduced ability to bind DNA can be attributed to structural differences between variant and main H2B-H2A. Variant melbournevirus nucleosomes are less stable, possibly aiding rapid genome unpacking to initiate gene expression. Our results highlight the remarkable propensity of giant viruses to appropriate the utility of histones for their specialized purposes.
Experience directs the instability of neuronal tuning for critical period plasticity in mouse visual cortex
Authors: Brown Thomas C. , McGee Aaron W.
Published: January 2025

Brief monocular deprivation during a developmental critical period, but not thereafter, alters the receptive field properties (tuning) of neurons in visual cortex, but the characteristics of neural circuitry that permit this experience-dependent plasticity are largely unknown. We performed repeated calcium imaging at neuronal resolution to track the tuning properties of populations of excitatory layer 2/3 neurons in mouse visual cortex during or after the critical period, as well as innogo-66 receptor (ngr1)mutant mice that sustain critical-period plasticity as adults. The instability of tuning for populations of neurons was greater in juvenile mice and adultngr1mutant mice. We propose instability of neuronal tuning gates plasticity and is directed by experience to alter the tuning of neurons during the critical period.
Formation and Gelation of Elastin-like Polypeptide Complex Coacervates
Authors: Fisher Rachel S. , Cheng Yihan , Goessling Lavinia , Obermeyer Allie C.
Published: January 2025

Protein liquid-liquid phase separation underlies the formation of membraneless organelles in cells and performs a key role in the assembly process of natural materials such as the assembly of tropoelastin into elastic fibers. Here, we engineered a series of charged elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) that form complex coacervates, providing a rapid method to concentrate proteins into a fluid state. Compared to coacervates formed from simple coacervation, complex coacervates exhibited greater fluidity, likely due to differences between electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic forces. We designed these ELP’s to further contain crosslinking domains compatible with tyrosinase or transglutaminase and found that crosslinking was enhanced when proteins were in a complex coacervate compared to free in solution. Crosslinking the ELP complex coacervates led to the formation of gels with distinct properties dependent on the nature of the crosslinking. This work expands the design space of ELP hydrogels, offering a novel strategy for forming crosslinked networks from complex coacervates and providing opportunity for future use in tissue engineering and biocompatible biomaterials applications.
Multi-System Dysregulation in Placental Malaria Contributes to Adverse Perinatal Outcomes in Mice
Authors: Ekregbesi Phebe , Seibert Brittany , Parish Maclaine A. , Flores-Garcia Yevel , Creisher Patrick S. , Hoffmann Joseph P. , Liu Jennifer , Brayton Cory , Zavala Fidel , Klein Sabra L.
Published: January 2025

Sequestration ofPlasmodiumparasites in the placental vasculature causes increased morbidity and mortality in pregnant compared to non-pregnant patients in malaria- endemic regions. In this study, outbred pregnant CD1 mice with semi allogeneic fetuses were infected with transgenicPlasmodium bergheior mock-inoculated by mosquito bite at either embryonic day (E) 6 (first trimester-equivalent) or 10 (second trimester- equivalent) and compared with non-pregnant females.P. berghei-infected mosquitoes had greater biting avidity for E10 dams than uninfected mosquitoes, which was not apparent for E6 dams nor non-pregnant females. Infected E10 dams had greater numbers of parasites than E6 dams in the uterus and spleen, but not in the blood or liver. While parasites were found in placentas, no parasites were present in fetuses. Maternal infection at E6 caused greater maternal morbidity, with greater rates of fetal reabsorption and stillbirths than at E10. Infection at E10 caused adverse offspring outcomes, including growth restriction. To identify possible mechanisms of adverse offspring outcomes, E10 dams were euthanized during peak parasitemia (8 days post infection), and outcomes were compared with mock-infected dams.P. bergheicaused significant systemic maternal immune activation with elevated circulating lymphocytes, eosinophils, and neutrophils and splenic cytokine concentrations.P. bergheiinfection at E10 increased corticosterone and decreased progesterone concentrations, which could contribute to adverse perinatal outcomes through immunomodulation. There were limited changes in the maternal fecal microbiome afterP. bergheiinfection. Mosquito bite infection of outbred dams withP. bergheicauses placental malaria and provides a novel, tractable model to investigate therapeutic treatments.
Transmission spectroscopy of
CF4
molecules in intense x-ray fields
Authors: Jin Rui , Fouda Adam , Magunia Alexander , Nam Yeonsig , Rebholz Marc , De Fanis Alberto , Li Kai , Doumy Gilles , Baumann Thomas M. , Straub Michael , Usenko Sergey , Ovcharenko Yevheniy , Mazza Tommaso , Montaño Jacobo , Agåker Marcus , Piancastelli Maria Novella , Simon Marc , Rubensson Jan-Erik , Meyer Michael , Young Linda , Ott Christian , Pfeifer Thomas
Published: January 2025

The nonlinear interaction of x rays with matter is at the heart of understanding and controlling ultrafast molecular dynamics from an atom-specific viewpoint, providing new scientific and analytical opportunities to explore the structure and dynamics of small quantum systems. At increasingly high x-ray intensity, the sensitivity of ultrashort x-ray pulses to specific electronic states and emerging short-lived transient intermediates is of particular relevance for our understanding of fundamental multiphoton absorption processes. In this work, intense x-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) pulses at the European XFEL are combined with a gas cell and grating spectrometer for a high-intensity transmission spectroscopy study of multiphoton-induced ultrafast molecular fragmentation dynamics in CF4. This approach unlocks the direct intrapulse observation of transient fragments, including neutral atoms, by their characteristic absorption lines in the transmitted broadband x-ray spectrum. The dynamics with and without initially producing fluorine K-shell holes are studied by tuning the central photon energy. The absorption spectra are measured at different FEL intensities to observe nonlinear effects. Transient isolated fluorine atoms and ions are spectroscopically recorded within the ultrashort pulse duration of a few tens of femtoseconds. An isosbestic point that signifies the correlated transition between intact neutral CF4 molecules and charged atomic fragments is observed near the fluorine K edge. The dissociation dynamics and the multiphoton absorption-induced dynamics encoded in the spectra are theoretically interpreted. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of high-intensity x-ray transmission spectroscopy to study ultrafast molecular dynamics with sensitivity to specific intermediate species and their electronic structure.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Nuclear level density and
γ
-ray strength function of
Ni67
and the impact on the
i
process
Authors: Ingeberg V. W. , Siem S. , Wiedeking M. , Choplin A. , Goriely S. , Siess L. , Abrahams K. J. , Arnswald K. , Bello Garrote F. , Bleuel D. L. , Cederkäll J. , Christoffersen T. L. , Cox D. M. , De Witte H. , Gaffney L. P. , Görgen A. , Henrich C. , Illana A. , Jones P. , Kheswa B. V. , Kröll T. , Majola S. N. T. , Malatji K. L. , Ojala J. , Pakarinen J. , Rainovski G. , Reiter P. , von Schmid M. , Seidlitz M. , Tveten G. M. , Warr N. , Zeiser F. ,   The ISOLDE Collaboration
Published: January 2025

Proton-γ coincidences from (d,p) reactions between a Ni66 beam and a deuterated polyethylene target have been analyzed with the inverse-Oslo method to find the nuclear level density (NLD) and γ-ray strength function (γSF) of Ni67. The Ni66(n,γ) capture cross section has been calculated using the Hauser-Feshbach model in using the measured NLD and γSF as constraints. The results confirm that the Ni66(n,γ) reaction acts as a bottleneck when relying on one-zone nucleosynthesis calculations. However, the impact of this reaction is strongly dampened in multizone models of low-metallicity AGB stars experiencing i-process nucleosynthesis.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Impact of multifaceted morality on employee well­being: a systematic literature review
Authors: Khushk Amir , Zhiying Liu , Yi Xu , Liu Haonan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Morality in the workplace has become a significant determinant of organizational effectiveness and employee well-being. This research aims to conduct an in-depth review of the past literature on multidimensional morality and provide insight into its impact on the modern workplace and employee well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature search resulted in 3,589 papers published between 2012 and 2024. This paper analyzed 30 research studies on workplace morality based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure methodological rigor.

Findings

Research findings show the need to promote workplace ethics to avoid counterproductive workplace behaviors. Also, effective leadership adheres to ethical principles, together with the ethical framework of an organization, which includes codes of ethics and a commitment to corporate social responsibility, contributing to the overall well-being of individuals by providing a sense of support and resolving conflicts. Ethical conflicts are associated with decreased well-being and increased turnover, underscoring the need for organizational solutions.

Practical implications

Understanding intricate morality is essential for organizations to foster moral cultures and improve performance. HR specialists can use this knowledge to create policies that uphold moral principles and improve employee job satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study extends the current body of knowledge by synthesizing research on multifaceted moral issues in modern workplaces. It provides useful insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers who are interested in promoting ethical organizational cultures by addressing ethical shortcomings.
IFRS 16 and firms’ risk in emerging markets: the impact of managerial overconfidence
Authors: Mansour Karim , Sayed Emad , Hussainey Khaled
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to (1) investigate how IFRS 16 affects firms’ risk in Egypt and (2) examine the moderating role of managerial overconfidence on this relation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from the annual reports of 38 Egyptian firms from 2014 to 2022. This study employs the generalized method of moments (GMM) and the three-stage least squares (3SLS) as estimation techniques.

Findings

The results show that IFRS 16 positively affects Egyptian firm risk, while managerial overconfidence reduces this positive effect.

Research limitations/implications

This study has some limitations. First, the sample size was relatively small. Second, our analysis did not incorporate other metrics of managerial overconfidence owing to the unavailability of relevant data in Egypt.

Practical implications

This study assists stakeholders and regulators in realising the implications of IFRS 16 on a firm’s risk, especially in emerging markets. Also, it enables managers to identify and assess lease-related risks more accurately to assist in developing appropriate risk mitigation strategies and optimizing lease-related decision-making processes. Furthermore, it aids in enhancing comprehension and knowledge of the interplay between managerial behaviour and firm outcomes.

Originality/value

Grounded in agency theory, this study reveals novel empirical insights into the impact of IFRS 16 on firm risk, especially in the context of emerging markets. Utilizing behavioural decision theory and upper echelons theory, it examines the previously unexplored influence of managerial overconfidence on this relationship.
Private equity activity and corporate governance’s spillover
Authors: Herrera-Echeverri Hernán , Cueto Diego , Gaitan Sandra , Fragua Daniel
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We examine the impact of private equity on corporate governance across industries and countries.

Design/methodology/approach

We gathered data from 15 countries and 16 industries spanning the period from 2005 to 2015 to construct an average corporate governance index and track private equity deals across both industries and countries. We analyze a country-industry-year panel dataset and address endogeneity issues.

Findings

The results indicate a strong and significant relationship between private equity activity and corporate governance quality. When the private equity investment begins earlier, it is more relevant to the corporate governance quality. Foreign private equity investment seems to complement domestic private equity to improve corporate governance in settings with low domestic private equity activity. The experience of the fund that originates the private equity activity is also a determinant of the quality of the corporate governance spillover.

Practical implications

Governments and institutions should promote private equity by creating a regulatory environment that attracts investment funds to countries or sectors that lack robust governance frameworks. Investors can design more effective governance practices according to the specific needs of their industries and countries. Shareholders would better understand how private equity corporate governance practices complement the company’s long-term strategies. Finally, the market would benefit from the confidence in private equity investors that promote international corporate governance practices that are valuable to the stakeholders.

Originality/value

This research expands our understanding of the benefits of private equity activity on corporate governance quality across industries. We posit the importance of foreign private equity investors complementing domestic private equity activity and fund characteristics such as their experience in boosting corporate governance.
The environmental committee: corruption, accountability and sustainable supply chain transparency
Authors: Karaman Abdullah S. , Viana Fernando Luiz E. , Ellili Nejla Ould Daoud , Uyar Ali
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether public governance quality (i.e. control of corruption and voice and accountability) and corporate governance strength (i.e. environmental committee existence) are influential in stimulating supply chain transparency and how these two governance characteristics interact in enhancing supply chain transparency.

Design/methodology/approach

Our investigation draws on a sample of 25,096 firm-year observations affiliated with the manufacturing industry in 50 countries and executes country-year fixed effects.

Findings

We find that the strength of control of corruption, voice and accountability is positively associated with supply chain transparency, supporting institutional theory. Furthermore, the environmental committee’s existence is positively related to sustainable supply chain transparency, confirming the upper echelons theory. The moderating analysis rejects the complementary effect but supports the substitution effect, confirming the negative moderating role of the environmental committee between the control of corruption and voice and accountability and sustainable supply chain transparency.

Originality/value

No empirical study has drawn on an international sample to (1) explicate the worldwide adoption of sustainable supply chain transparency, (2) link corruption and accountability to green supply chain transparency or (3) investigate how sustainable supply chain transparency is affected by the interplay of institutions and environmental management committees. Thus, we highlight the substitutive or complementary role of internal and external governance mechanisms in inciting firms toward greener supply chain management by developing a novel sustainable supply chain transparency index that draws on five indicators.
Changes in blowfly (Diptera: Calliphoridae) wing morphology during succession in rat carcasses across forest and grassland habitats in South Brazil
Authors: Colares Lucas Ferreira , Herdina Anita da Silva , Bender Mariana , Dambros Cristian de Sales
Published: January 2025

Succession is one of the most extensively studied ecological phenomena, yet debates persist about the importance of dispersal and external factors in driving this process. We aimed to quantify the influence of these factors by investigating how wing‐related traits evolve across succession of blowfly (Diptera: Calliphoridae) communities in South Brazil. Rat carrion was placed in both forest and grassland habitats, and the associated blowfly communities were documented throughout the decomposition process. Using morphometric analysis, we measured wing and thorax traits and assessed trait changes over succession through mixed models. Our findings revealed that carrion succession follows distinct trajectories in forest and grassland environments. Specifically, we observed that Calliphora lopesi predominantly visited carcasses during the final phase of decomposition, resulting in significant differences in species composition and wing size between habitats. In forests, wing size increased toward the later stages of succession, whereas an opposite trend was observed in grasslands. Notably, these trait patterns were only evident at the species level, indicating that intraspecific trait variation is irrelevant. Stronger dispersers tend to arrive during the later stages of succession, suggesting that dispersal has a negligible role in shaping successional dynamics. Instead, environmental differences between habitats drive trait patterns throughout succession. Our results suggest that community composition in ephemeral resources is governed by deterministic processes and that successional stages can be predicted based on blowfly wing traits. Specifically, the presence of the large‐winged C. lopesi indicates late decay, while the small‐winged Chrysomia albiceps and Lucilia eximia are indicative of early decay
Elasticity of trachea in the silkworm: A role of gene BmMuc91C
Authors: Chen Yifei , Dong Haonan , Xiao Chunxia , Wang Qinglang , Gong Jing , Hou Yong
Published: January 2025

Respiration is a vital process essential for organism survival, with most terrestrial insects relying on a sophisticated tubular tracheal network. In the current study, a gene with repetitive sequence was identified within the silkworm genome. Designated as BmMuc91C, it contains a dozen repeated motifs “PSSSYGAPX” and “GGYSSGGX” in its sequence. BmMuc91C exhibits specific expression in the tracheal system of silkworm larvae, with significantly higher expression levels during the molting stage. Overexpression of BmMuc91C in individual silkworms resulted in a marked increase in tracheal diameter, particularly during the molting stage. Immunofluorescence staining using a BmMuc91C antibody revealed a noticeable thickening of the apical extracellular matrix in the trachea. Tensile testing confirmed a considerable enhancement in tracheal elasticity. Additionally, a BmMuc91C mutation strain of silkworms was generated using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) / CRISPR‐associated nuclease 9 system. Although no significant differences were observed in the growth, development, and molting of BmMuc91C mutant silkworms, mechanical tests demonstrated a decrease in tracheal elasticity. Transcriptomic techniques revealed that a significant number of cuticular and chitin‐binding proteins were among the differentially expressed genes between mutant and wild‐type silkworms. Furthermore, the recombined BmMuc91C protein was successfully expressed using the Escherichia coli system. Cross‐linking experiments with horseradish peroxidase demonstrated the formation of macromolecular complexes of BmMuc91C, which exhibited spontaneous luminescent properties under ultraviolet light. This research sheds light on the role of elastic proteins in insect tracheae and provides valuable insights for the development of elastic biomaterials.