bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective exposed-unexposed cohort study comparing time-to-pregnancy in patients with previous breast cancer and controls from a collaborative research network: results after three years of follow-up
Authors: Hamy Anne-Sophie , Chabassier Agathe , Sebbag Clara , Rousset-Jablonski Christine , Berkach Clémentine , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Sablone Laura , Darrigues Lauren , Dumas Elise , Bobrie Angélique , Jacot William , Espié Marc , Giacchetti Sylvie , Jochum Floriane , Toussaint Aullène , Plu-Bureau Geneviève , Maitrot-Mantelet Lorraine , Gompel Anne , Gougis Paul , Bas Raphaëlle , Decanter Christine , Asselain Bernard , Coutant Charles , Sohn Lili , Jacob Guillemette , Coussy Florence , Reyal Fabien ,   on the behalf of the Seintinelles Research Network
Published: January 2025

Importance

Data on fertility after breast cancer (BC) relative to the general population are lacking.

Objective

To compare the time-to-pregnancy between women with and without prior BC seeking to become pregnant.

Design

Prospective exposed-unexposed cohort study. Women were included from March 13, 2018 to June 27, 2019. Data were collected every six months via online questionnaires for up to three years.

Setting

Participants were recruited through the French collaborative network for cancer research Seintinelles*.

Participants

Exposed women (cases) were women aged 18-43 years with a history of localized BC who had completed treatment, without relapse. Unexposed women (controls) were women of the same age group with no history of BC.

Exposure(s)

The exposure of interest was a prior history of BC.

Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s)

The primary endpoint was time-to-pregnancy. The hypothesis tested was formulated before data collection. Secondary endpoints included the use of ART, including the use of cryopreserved material, factors associated with time-to-pregnancy, and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Statistical analysis was based on Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards models with adjustment for confounding factors by inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

Results

We enrolled 4351 women in this study. Follow-up data were available for 642 women (76 cases, 566 controls) who sought to become pregnant during the study period. Median time-to-pregnancy was 5 months (95% CI: 3 months to 7 months) for cases and 3 months (95% CI: 2 months to 5 months) for adjusted controls, with no significant difference between the groups (p=0.34). Cases were more likely to resort to the use of ART than controls (RR=13.9, 95% CI [2.2- 154.6]), but time-to-pregnancy was similar in cases and controls, with and without ART use. Time-to-pregnancy was influenced by factors such as age, parity, menstrual cycle regularity, BMI, and ART, but not by prior BC. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes did not differ significantly between cases and controls.

Conclusions and Relevance

Time-to-pregnancy, in women seeking to become pregnant, was similar for women with and without a history of BC, raising hopes for women with BC wishing to have children.
Sex differences in the association between age-related decline in blood pressure and decline in cognition: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Baumgartner Nicholas W. , Capuano Ana W. , Barnes Lisa L. , Bennett David A. , Arvanitakis Zoe
Published: January 2025

Background

Both high and declining blood pressure (BP) are associated with cognitive decline risk in older adults. In late-life, women have higher rates of hypertension, experience faster cognitive decline, and represent two-thirds of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease dementia. However, sex differences in the association between BP decline and cognitive decline are unknown.

Methods

Data were analyzed from 4719 older adults without known baseline dementia (mean age = 76.7 [SD = 7.7] years; 74% women) enrolled in one of five US-based prospective community-based cohort studies, followed annually for up to 31 years (mean = 8.7 [SD = 5.7] years). A 19-test cognitive battery, yielding composite global and five domain-specific scores, and BP were assessed annually. Bivariate mixed-effects models simultaneously estimated change in BP and cognition, for the total group and by sex.

Findings

Systolic BP, diastolic BP, and cognition all declined over time (ps <0.01). Bivariate mixed-effect models revealed a sex difference in the correlation of decline in systolic BP and decline in global cognition (women: r = 0.26, 95%CI: 0.17 - 0.37; men: r = 0.01, 95%CI: -0.13 - 0.11), such that women exhibited a stronger correlation than men. Decline in systolic BP was related to decline in global and all five cognitive domains in women but none in men, with another sex difference identified in the working memory domain. An increase of diastolic BP was related to decline in working memory in men, and no other associations with diastolic BP were significant for either sex.

Interpretation

Systolic BP decline in late-life is related to decline in global and domain-specific cognition in women but not men, with sex differences in global cognition and the working memory domain. These findings suggest that in older women, declining systolic BP – a routinely-used clinical measure – may be an important marker of concurrent cognitive decline.
Sanitation-related empowerment resources are associated with women’s well-being, anxiety, and depression: findings from Bangladesh, India, Senegal, and Uganda
Authors: Mink Thea , Patrick Madeleine , Conrad Amelia , Ahmed Tanvir , Arun Srishty , Ramanarayanan Vinod , Chakraborti Niladri , Reddy Y. Malini , Nagarajan Abhilaasha , Bhan Tanushree , Sinharoy Sheela S. , Caruso Bethany A.
Published: January 2025

Nascent public health research has identified linkages between sanitation experiences and mental health. The present study examined associations between sanitation-related empowerment resources (Bodily Integrity, Safety and Security, Privacy, and Time) and mental health outcomes (well-being, depression, and anxiety).

We conducted a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data collected in 2021-2022 from household surveys of women in Bangladesh, India, Senegal, and Uganda (n = 2,122). The primary exposures were sanitation-related empowerment resources measured using the Agency, Resources, and Institutional Structures for Sanitation-related Empowerment (ARISE) Scales. Three outcomes were assessed: subjective well-being (World Health Organization Well-being Index, WHO-5), anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder measure, GAD-2), and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-2). Linear regressions of the WHO-5, PHQ-2, and GAD-2 scores on the four sanitation-related empowerment resources were conducted.

Overall mean scores for well-being were moderate, and overall mean scores for anxiety and depression indicated normal prevalence (well-being mean = 17.2, SD = 5.8, depression mean = 1.1, SD = 1.4; anxiety mean = 1.0, SD = 1.4). In the adjusted well-being model, there was a positive association between Privacy and well-being (β = 2.0, p<.001). In the adjusted depression model, there were negative associations between Bodily Integrity and depression (β = -0.3, p=.002) and between Privacy and depression (β = -0.4, p<.001). In the adjusted anxiety model, there were negative associations between all four resources and anxiety (Bodily Integrity β = -0.7, p<.001; Safety and Security β = -0.3, p=.025; Privacy β = - 0.3, p=.037; Time β = -0.2, p=.009).

Our findings provide evidence of associations between women’s sanitation-related resources of Bodily Integrity, Safety and Security, Privacy, and Time and mental health. Sanitation initiatives should aim to enhance and evaluate women’s experiences of these resources given their potential to benefit women’s mental health and well-being.
Molecular characterisation of commonCulicoidesBiting Midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) in Ireland
Authors: Isiye Elsie , Olmeda Angela Valcarcel , Curran Thomas , O’Neill David , de Waal Theo , Barry Gerald , O’Hanlon Aidan , O’Shaughnessy James , McCarthy Nicole Keohane , Vellinga Akke , Jenkinson Audrey , Johnson Alan , Barrett Damien , Costello Sarah , Zintl Annetta , O’Meara Denise
Published: January 2025

Background

Biting midges in the genusCulicoides(Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) act as vectors for several arboviruses, including Bluetongue virus (BTV) and Schmallenberg virus (SBV), which affect livestock health and productivity. In Ireland, limited genetic data are available regarding the diversity ofCulicoidesspecies. This study represents the first attempt to characteriseCulicoidesin this region using molecular techniques.

Methods

AdultCulicoidessamples were captured using Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) traps across six locations in Ireland. Subsequent molecular analyses involved polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) and the internal transcriber spacer (ITS) barcoding regions to obtain species identities. Additionally, using both markers, we inferred the population genetic structure and potential colonisation pathways ofCulicoides obsoletus sensu stricto (s. str.), the major vector species in Ireland.

Results

DNA barcoding facilitated identification of 177 specimens. Eight commonCulicoidesspecies were identified through DNA barcoding of CO1 and ITS gene regions. The presence of putative vectors of Bluetongue virus (BTV) and Schmallenberg virus (SBV) were also confirmed, including species in the subgenusAvaritia(C. obsoletus s. str., C. scoticus, C. chiopterus, and C. dewulfi) and subgenusCulicoides s. str.(C. pulicarisandC. punctatus). Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the relationship between these vector species and facilitated the placement ofCulicoidessp. which could not be identified to species level through DNA barcoding. Haplotype network analysis ofC. obsoletusshowed that some haplotypes of these species are shared between Continental Europe, the UK, and Ireland, suggesting a possible incursion pathway for this vector.

Conclusion

DNA barcoding employing a combination of two barcodes, CO1 and ITS, proved effective in identifyingCulicoides, especially species within theobsoletuscomplex, which are difficult to morphologically distinguish. Our findings also suggest that investigation of the population genetic structure ofCulicoidesspp. could be used to model the potential introduction routes of midge-borne pathogens into the country.
Coordination of distinct sources of excitatory inputs enhances motion selectivity in the mouse visual thalamus
Authors: Fei Yue , Luh Michelle , Ontiri Ashley , Ghauri Dawood , Hu Wenxin , Liang Liang
Published: January 2025

Multiple sources innervate the visual thalamus to influence image-forming vision prior to the cortex, yet it remains unclear how non-retinal and retinal input coordinate to shape thalamic visual selectivity. Using dual-color two-photon calcium imaging in the thalamus of awake mice, we observed similar coarse-scale retinotopic organization between axons of superior colliculus neurons and retinal ganglion cells, both providing strong converging excitatory input to thalamic neurons. At a fine scale of ∼10 µm, collicular boutons often shared visual feature preferences with nearby retinal boutons. Inhibiting collicular input significantly suppressed visual responses in thalamic neurons and specifically reduced motion selectivity in neurons preferring nasal-to-temporal motion. The reduction in motion selectivity could be the result of silencing sharply tuned direction-selective colliculogeniculate input. These findings suggest that the thalamus is not merely a relay but selectively integrates inputs from multiple regions to build stimulus selectivity and shape the information transmitted to the cortex.

HIGHLIGHTS

Chronic dual-color calcium imaging reveals diverse visual tuning of collicular axonal boutons.

Nearby collicular and retinal boutons often share feature preferences at ∼10 µm scale

Silencing of collicular input suppresses visual responses in the majority of thalamic neurons.

Silencing of collicular input reduces motion selectivity in thalamic neurons.
Network-based framework for studying etiology and phenotype diversity in primary ciliopathies
Authors: Aarts E.M. , Laman Trip D.S. , Neatu R. , Martin C.G. , Riley B. , Kraus A. , Green A. , Al-Hamed M.H. , Armstrong R.E. , Sayer J.A. , Bachmann-Gagescu R. , Beltrao P
Published: January 2025

Recent advances in sequencing technologies have increasingly enabled the identification of genetic causes for human monogenic diseases. However, systematic understanding remains limited due to the rarity, genetic heterogeneity, and complex genotype-phenotype relationships of these diseases. Primary ciliopathies are a diverse group of rare disorders caused by variants in genes associated with the cilium, a cellular organelle involved in signaling during development and cell homeostasis. These genetic variants result in a wide spectrum of clinical phenotypes involving the brain, eye, kidney and skeleton. It remains unclear to what extent this phenotypic diversity can be attributed to the disease-causing genes and their specific roles in ciliary function. Here, we systematically compared human primary ciliopathies with each other and with mouse phenotypes by propagating known disease genes through a network of protein interactions. Network propagation improved the clustering of primary ciliopathies with shared clinical phenotypes and facilitated the identification of mouse phenotypes closely related to primary ciliopathies due to shared groups of proteins in the interaction network. By leveraging this phenotype-specific approach, we prioritized candidate genes for ciliopathies and identified likely pathogenic variants inCEP43, a novel candidate gene for human primary ciliopathies in three previously unsolved cases. This study demonstrates that network propagation enhances the genetic and phenotypic understanding of primary ciliopathies, aiding in the prioritization of candidate genes and identification of relevant mouse models for these rare disorders, and providing a framework for unraveling shared underlying mechanisms for other rare genetic diseases.
Learning-induced plasticity decreases cortical engram cell dendritic excitability during memory recall
Authors: Rosier Marius , Stuyt George , Godenzini Luca , Ryan Tomás J. , Palmer Lucy M.
Published: January 2025

The ability to associate stimuli to create a memory is one of the most fundamental functions of the brain. Research from the past decade has revealed that memory is encoded in sparse neuronal networks active during learning called engram cells. Although the cortex is recognized as playing an important role in memory, the biophysical properties of cortical engram cells are largely unknown. To address this, we tagged engram cells in the auditory cortex during tone fear conditioning and compared their dendritic and somatic properties with neighbouring non-engram cells. Using two-photon calcium imaging, we show that tuft dendrites of engram cells had dampened, but synchronous, activity during recall.Ex vivopatch-clamp recordings illustrated that engram cells were preferentially connected with neighbouring engram cells and had decreased excitability due to a transient increase in Ih current. Together, these findings reveal Ih-driven intrinsic plasticity which leads to specific information processing in engram cells.
NF-κB is a Central Regulator of Hypoxia-Induced Gene Expression
Authors: Shakir Dilem , Batie Michael , Kwok Chun-Sui , Kenneth Niall S. , Rocha Sonia
Published: January 2025

Hypoxia is both a physiological and pathological signal in cells. Changes in gene expression play a critical role in the cellular response to hypoxia, enabling cells to adapt to reduced oxygen availability by regulating metabolism, angiogenesis, and survival pathways. These changes are primarily mediated by the HIF family of transcription factors, however other transcription factors such as NF-κB, are also activated in the hypoxic response. Although NF-κB is known to be activated under hypoxic conditions the extent of NF-κB contributions to the hypoxic response remains poorly understood. In this study we analyse hypoxia-induced NF-κB dependent gene expression, to define the NF-κB-dependent hypoxic signature. Our analysis reveals that a significant proportion of hypoxia-induced gene expression changes are NF-κB dependent, with majority of the hypoxia downregulated genes requiring NF-κB for their repression. We show that, while the NF-κB-mediated hypoxic response may vary between cell types, there are a core subset of hypoxia inducible genes that require NF-κB across multiple cell backgrounds. We demonstrate that NF-κB is critical for reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and regulation of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation under hypoxic conditions. This work highlights that NF-κB has a central role in hypoxia response, regulating a broader set of genes than previously thought, providing new understanding into the gene expression regulation by hypoxia and NF-κB.
Molecular dynamics guided engineering ofAequorea victoriaGreen Fluorescent Protein chromophore interactions generates a brighter variant with improved photobleaching resistance
Authors: Ahmed Rochelle D. , Jamieson W. David , Vitsupakon Danoo , Zitti Athena , Pawson Kai A. , Castell Oliver K. , Watson Peter D. , Jones D. Dafydd
Published: January 2025

Fluorescent proteins (FPs) are a crucial tool for cell imaging, but with developments in fluorescence microscopy and researcher requirements there is still a need to develop brighter versions that remain fluorescent for longer. Using short time-scale molecular dynamics-based modelling to predict changes in local chromophore interaction networks and solvation, we constructed anAequorea victoriaGFP (avGFP) variant called YuzuFP that is 1.5 times brighter than the starting superfolding variant (sfGFP) with a near 3-fold increased resistance to photobleachingin situ. YuzuFP contained a single mutation that replaces the chromophore interacting residue H148 with a serine. Longer time scale molecular dynamics revealed the likely mechanism of action is S148 makes more persistent polar interactions with the chromophore phenol group and increases the residency time of an important water molecule. As demonstrated by live cell imaging, YuzuFP not only offers a timely upgrade as a useful green-yellow avGFP for cell imaging applications over longer timescales, but it also provides a basic scaffold for future avGFP engineering efforts.
Protein and genomic language models chart a vast landscape of antiphage defenses
Authors: Mordret Ernest , Hervé Alexandre , Vaysset Hugo , Clabby Tyler , Tesson Florian , Shomar Helena , Lavenir Rachel , Cury Jean , Bernheim Aude
Published: January 2025

The bacterial pangenome encodes an immense array of antiphage systems, yet much of their diversity remains uncharted. In this study, we developed language models to predict novel antiphage proteins in two ways: first via fine-tuning ESM2, a protein language model capable of detecting distant homology to known defense proteins, second via a genomic language model with ALBERT architecture which predicts defensive function based on genomic context. We demonstrate that applying these approaches to Actinomycetota - a phylum largely unexplored for antiphage defenses, can accurately predict previously unknown functional defense mechanisms, leading to the discovery and experimental validation of six defense systems with novel antiphage proteins. Analysis of over 30,000 bacterial genomes predicted more than 45,000 uncharacterized protein families potentially involved in antiphage defense, underscoring the vast, untapped diversity of these systems.
Activity dependent Clustering of Neuronal L-Type Calcium Channels by CaMKII
Authors: Yang Qian , Hu Lan , Lawson-Qureshi Dorian , Colbran Roger J.
Published: January 2025

Neuronal excitation-transcription (E-T) coupling pathways can be initiated by local increases of Ca2+concentrations within a nanodomain close to the L-type voltage-gated Ca2+channel (LTCC). However, molecular mechanisms controlling LTCC organization within the plasma membrane that help creation these localized signaling domains remain poorly characterized. Here, we report that neuronal depolarization increases CaV1.3 LTCC clustering in cultured hippocampal neurons. Our previous work showed that binding of the activated catalytic domain of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) to an RKR motif in the N-terminal cytoplasmic domain of CaV1.3 is required for LTCC-mediated E-T coupling. We tested whether multimeric CaMKIIα holoenzymes can bind simultaneously to co-expressed CaV1.3 α1 subunits with two different epitope tags. Co-immunoprecipitation assays from HEK293T cell lysates revealed that CaMKIIα assembles multimeric CaV1.3 LTCC complexes in a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent manner. CaMKII-dependent assembly of multi-CaV1.3 complexes is further facilitated by co-expression of the CaMKII-binding LTCC β2a subunit, relative to the β3 subunit, which cannot bind directly to CaMKII. Moreover, clustering of surface localized CaV1.3 α1 subunits in intact HEK293 cells was increased by pharmacological LTCC activation, but only in the presence of co-expressed wild-type CaMKIIα. Moreover, depolarization-induced clustering of surface-expressed CaV1.3 LTCCs in cultured hippocampal neurons was disrupted by suppressing the expression of CaMKIIα and CaMKIIβ using shRNAs. The CaMKII-binding RKR motif is conserved in the N-terminal domain of CaV1.2 α1 subunits and we found that activated CaMKIIα promoted the assembly of CaV1.2 homomeric complexes, as well as CaV1.3-CaV1.2 heteromeric complexesin vitro. Furthermore, neuronal depolarization enhanced the clustering of surface-expressed CaV1.2 LTCCs, and enhanced the colocalization of endogenous CaV1.2 LTCCs with surface-expressed CaV1.3, by CaMKII-dependent mechanisms. This work indicates that CaMKII activation-dependent LTCC clustering in the plasma membrane following neuronal depolarization may be essential for the initiation of a specific long-range signal to activate gene expression.
Host-Specific Adaptations and Global Transmission Potential of a Mexican ToBRFV Isolate: Insights from Genomic Analysis
Authors: Erika Janet Zamora-Macorra , Leobardo Ochoa-Martínez Daniel , Claudia Yaritza Chavarín-Camacho , Hammond Rosemarie W , Katia Aviña-Padilla
Published: January 2025

The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) poses a severe global threat to tomato and pepper production due to its high transmissibility and genetic adaptability. This study provides an in-depth characterization of a Mexican ToBRFV isolate, integrating genomic variability analysis, host-specific investigations, and seed transmission studies to better understand the virus’s adaptability and dissemination pathways. Phylogenetic analysis places this Mexican isolate in close genetic proximity to strains from Israel and China, suggesting cross-regional transmission potentially facilitated by agricultural trade. Genomic comparison with 100 ToBRFV isolates revealed a notable balance between genomic stability and host-specific adaptations, particularly within the 126-kDa replicase domain proteins critical for viral replication. Specific single nucleotide variants (SNVs) were identified in these regions, exhibiting host-dependent patterns;Solanum lycopersicum(tomato) isolates maintained consistent profiles, whereas isolates fromCapsicum annuum(pepper) andCitrullus lanatus(watermelon) displayed unique substitutions. These variations suggest distinct selection pressures across hosts, potentially optimizing viral replication and survival in specific plant environments. Experimental bioassays confirmed that the Mexican isolate could infect additional species, includingPhysalis ixocarpa, andSolanum melongena, thereby expanding the known host range of ToBRFV. Seed transmission studies conducted onN. rusticarevealed a 30% reduction in germination rates for infected seeds compared to healthy controls, highlighting the virus’s impact on seed viability and underscoring the necessity of stringent biosecurity protocols. This comprehensive analysis enhances our understanding of the Mexican ToBRFV isolate genetic diversity, host specificity, and transmission dynamics.
MicroRNA signatures of VO2peak in older adult participants of the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging
Authors: Karere Genesio M. , Hsu Fang-Chi , Hepple Russell T. , Coen Paul M. , Cummings Steve , Newman Anne , Glynn Nancy W. , Sparks Lauren , Lane Nancy E. , Xu Jianzhao , Wagner Nathan , Li Ge , Chan Jeanne , Cox Laura A. , Kritchevsky Stephen
Published: January 2025

Background

Peak oxygen consumption during exercise (VO2peak), is a direct measure of cardiorespiratory fitness (CF), a key indicator of physical function and overall health. However, the molecular changes that underpin VO2peak variation are not clear. Our objective is to understand the miRNA signatures that relate to VO2peak variation, which could provide insights to novel mechanisms that contribute to low VO2peak.

Methods

We used small RNA sequencing to analyze serum samples from 72 participants (70-79 yrs old, 53% female) of the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA). We analyzed samples from individuals with low or high VO2peak (N=18/group) as well as samples from 36 randomly selected participants spanning the entire spectrum of VO2peak. We used LIMMA analysis package for regression analysis and to identify differentially expressed miRNAs. We used receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to evaluate the Area Under the Curve (AUC) and sensitivity and specificity rates.

Results

We identified 1,055 miRNAs expressed in all serum samples. Expression of 65 miRNAs differed between participants with low and high VO2peak (p < 0.05). After p-value adjustment, expression of 5 miRNAs (miR-1301-3p, -431-5p, -501-5p, -519a-3p, and -18a-3p) remained significantly different (FDR = 0.05). The five miRNAs had AUC ranging from 0.77 to 0.84. The optimal sensitivity and specificity ranged from 70 to 80% and 80 to 90%, respectively. After adjustment for age and sex covariates, 46 miRNAs significantly correlated with VO2peak (p < 0.05) and miR-519a-3p remained significant based on adjusted of p-values.

Conclusions

We identified a miRNA signature of VO2peak in older individuals that might provide insights to novel mechanisms that drive low VO2peak. Future studies will validate the findings in a larger, longitudinal study cohort.
Enhancement of the anomalous Hall effect by tilt of the Zeeman field in the topologically nontrivial MXenes
M2M′C2O2
Authors: Habe Tetsuro
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the anomalous Hall effect of topologically nontrivial MXenes, M2M′C2O2, and the electronic structure in the presence of the magnetic proximity effect are theoretically investigated. The theoretical analysis is performed in two different ways: an effective model and a multi-orbital tight-binding model generated from the first-principles band structure. These two theoretical methods provide a similar profile of Berry curvature for electronic states near the bulk band gap, and they show an unconventional rise of hollowed-out peak in the profile with the tilt of the proximity magnetic potential. The anomalous Hall conductivity is also calculated as a function of the charge density and the tilt angle of the proximity magnetic order. Then, an unconventional enhancement of anomalous Hall conductivity by the tilt of magnetic order is theoretically predicted as a result of the variation of Berry curvature.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Refining the nuclear mass surface with the mass of
Sn103
Authors: Nies L. , Atanasov D. , Athanasakis-Kaklamanakis M. , Au M. , Bernerd C. , Blaum K. , Chrysalidis K. , Fischer P. , Heinke R. , Klink C. , Lange D. , Lunney D. , Manea V. , Marsh B. A. , Müller M. , Mougeot M. , Naimi S. , Schweiger Ch. , Schweikhard L. , Wienholtz F.
Published: January 2025

Mass measurements with the ISOLTRAP mass spectrometer at CERN-ISOLDE improve mass uncertainties of neutron-deficient tin isotopes towards doubly magic Sn100. The mass uncertainty of Sn103 was reduced by a factor of 4, and the new value for the mass excess of −67104(18)keV is compared with nuclear and density functional theory calculations. Based on these results and local trends in the mass surface, the masses of Sn101,103, as determined through their QEC values, were found to be inconsistent with the new results. From our measurement for Sn103, we extrapolate the mass excess of Sn101 to −60005(300)keV, which is significantly more bound than previously suggested. By correcting the mass values for Sn101,103, we also adjust the values of Sb104, Te105,107, I108, Xe109,111, and Cs112 near the proton drip line which are connected through their α and proton Q values. The results show an overall smoothening of the mass surface, suggesting the absence of deformation energy above the N=50 shell closure.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Hydrodynamic instabilities of propagating interfaces under Darcy's law
Authors: Daou Joel , Rajamanickam Prabakaran
Published: January 2025

The hydrodynamic instabilities of propagating interfaces in Hele-Shaw channels or porous media under the influence of an imposed flow and gravitational acceleration are investigated within the framework of Darcy's law. The stability analysis pertains to an interface between two fluids with different densities, viscosities, and permeabilities, which can be susceptible to Darrieus-Landau, Saffman-Taylor, and Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities. A theoretical analysis, treating the interface as a hydrodynamic discontinuity, yields a simple dispersion relation between the perturbation growth rate s and its wave number k in the form s=(ak−bk2)/(1+ck), where a, b, and c are constants determined by problem parameters. The constant a characterizes all three hydrodynamic instabilities, which are long wave in nature. In contrast, b and c, which characterize the influences of local curvature and flow strain on interface propagation speed, typically provide stabilization at short wavelengths comparable to the interface's diffusive thickness. The theoretical findings for Darcy's law are compared with a generalization of the classical work by Joulin and Sivashinsky, which is based on a Euler-Darcy model. The comparison provides a conceptual bridge between predictions based on Darcy's law and those on Euler's equation and offers valuable insights into the role of confinement on interface instabilities in Hele-Shaw channels. Numerical analyses of the instabilities are carried out for premixed flames using a simplified chemistry model and Darcy's law. The numerical results corroborate with the explicit formula with a reasonable accuracy. Time-dependent numerical simulations of unstable premixed flames are carried out to gain insights into the nonlinear development of these instabilities. The findings offer potential strategies for control of interface instabilities in Hele-Shaw channels or porous media. Special emphasis is given to the critical role played by the imposed flow in destabilizing or stabilizing the interface, depending on its direction relative to the interface propagation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Spontaneous and Induced Oscillations in Confined Epithelia
Authors: Parmar Toshi , Dow Liam P. , Pruitt Beth L. , Marchetti M. Cristina
Published: January 2025

The feedback between mechanical and chemical signals plays a key role in controlling many biological processes and collective cell behavior. Here we focus on the emergence of spatiotemporal density waves in a one-dimensional “cell train.” Combining a minimal theoretical model with experiments on MDCK epithelial cells confined to a linear pattern, we examine the spontaneous oscillations driven by feedback between myosin activation and mechanical deformations, as well as their effect on the response of the tissue to externally applied deformations. We show that the nature and frequency of spontaneous oscillations is controlled by the size of the cell train, with a transition from size-dependent standing waves to intrinsic spontaneous waves at the natural frequency of the tissue. The response to external boundary perturbations exhibits a resonance at this natural frequency, providing a possible venue for inferring the mechanochemical couplings that control the tissue behavior from rheological experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Characteristics of individuals using an integrated intensive support team within an adult community learning disability team
Authors: Durand Marianne , Hanna Mary , Mills Rachel
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to describe characteristics of individuals known to an integrated intensive support team (IST) for adults with intellectual disabilities (age, sex, ethnicity, level of intellectual disability, diagnoses). This paper also aims to report on community service input, the use of Dynamic Support Database-Clinical Support Tool, Care and Treatment Reviews and admissions and discharges from mental health hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

A retrospective cohort study using routinely collected data over a two-year period.

Findings

Around 90 individuals aged 19–73 years were rated as at risk of admission to mental health hospital, using the Dynamic Support Database-Clinical Support Tool. There were more men (62%) than women. Almost half (47%) had a mild intellectual disability, and around a third (37%) were autistic. Of the 63 individuals known to the team who were rated red (imminent risk of admission), three individuals were admitted to hospital. Therefore, 95% of potential admissions were avoided.

Practical implications

This adds to the emerging evidence of the utility of ISTs integrated within community learning disability teams in reducing admissions to hospital.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate IST outcomes using the Dynamic Support Database-Clinical Support Tool.
Hispanics in the workplace: their job demands and resources
Authors: Black Stephanie , Guerrero Laura , Blancero Donna Maria
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This conceptual paper seeks to contribute to the literature on Hispanics in the workplace by applying the job demand-resource (JD-R) model to better identify some of the unique demands, resources and outcomes that have been studied within Hispanic populations. Specifically, we apply moderators that uniquely differentiate Hispanic workers from the more dominant White culture.

Design/methodology/approach

Our search revealed peer-reviewed papers from 1970 to 2019. This timeframe was chosen because earlier studies did not report findings specifically about Hispanics. We excluded papers that: (1) focused on measurement equivalence, were qualitative or conceptual, (2) were not related to workers or employees (3) examined outcomes not resulting from demands and resources, (4) studied Hispanics not living in the US or (5) did not report independent findings on Hispanics. Based on our parameters, a total of 82 articles have been included in our study.

Findings

Our literature review revealed a tendency to treat Hispanics as a homogeneous group rather than delving into their distinct characteristics. Consequently, our model and propositions offer a framework to thoroughly investigate the unique attributes of Hispanics in the workplace.

Practical implications

This paper aims to encourage further research on Hispanics in the workplace, fostering a deeper understanding among organizations and managers to create a work environment that is more inclusive and conducive to productivity.

Originality/value

This paper enhances the literature on Hispanics in the workplace by presenting a model and propositions grounded in JD-R theory, with a specific focus on exploring factors that impact the job-related outcomes of Hispanics.
Supported internships: vocational training and labor inclusion for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Folguera Bellmunt Conxita
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This research analyzes the preparation of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) for inclusion in the open labor market via supported employment (SE). To this end, Fraser’s (1995) concept of transformative action is used to evaluate changes in students’ attitudes and behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was adopted, consisting of interviews with SE organizations and observations of students participating in workshops focused on internships that form part of their educational process.

Findings

The research findings indicate that an educational approach to SE inclusion can generate transformative processes that contribute to changing the conditions leading to exclusion from the labor market.

Research limitations/implications

This research develops further the use of Fraser’s (1995) theorization in disability studies. Students were observed participating in workshops, and not in their workplaces, which represents both a limitation and a line for future investigation.

Practical implications

This research contributes to reducing managers’ reluctance to contract people with IDD. It is also useful for those secondary schools implementing an inclusive educational approach that are willing to include internships as part of their academic curriculum.

Social implications

Greater investment and cooperation by education and labor policy makers are needed to make inclusion possible.

Originality/value

This study investigates inclusion in the labor market as part of the educational development of students with IDD, focusing on its transformative nature.
Social entrepreneurship on a crossroad: the case of Sunbird Straws
Authors: Datta Pallavi , Modi Shailavi , Singh Yugantar , Mathew Jain
Published: January 2025

Learning outcomes

The learning objectives are intended to stimulate the students’ comprehension of the various challenges faced by Indian social entrepreneurs. The case study offers a rich educational experience spanning diverse fields, including business operations, entrepreneurship, sustainable products, social innovation and financial planning. The case study on social entrepreneurship will guide students to comprehend its concept, significance, challenges and understand how businesses can be a force for positive social impact. The case study serves as a valuable tool for graduate students, helping them improve their critical thinking and solution-focused skills in preparation for their future entrepreneurial endeavors. Students should be able to analyze the case study, answer questions and evaluate the co-founder’s business expansion dilemma.

Case overview/synopsis

Social entrepreneurs are vital in tackling pressing societal issues, fostering innovation and creating lasting solutions for rural communities. However, their unique challenges often go unnoticed. This case study highlights the journey of Dr Saji Kurungatil Varghese, the co-founder of Sunbird Straws, an eco-friendly startup, and the complexities they faced while considering business expansion. The purpose of this case study is to provide insight into the world of social entrepreneurs and emphasize their importance and contribution on a wide scale.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS3: Entrepreneurship.
Detecting and analyzing weak signals of change in futures research and foresight
Authors: Shaeva Olga , Khlopov Nikolay
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to outline current and emerging opportunities and challenges in applying collective intelligence methods to detection and analysis of weak signals of change.

Design/methodology/approach

The article builds on review of current literature on the topic and analysis of projects employing various methods of collective intelligence to scanning and sense making for signals of change.

Findings

The article points out possible roles of collective intelligence in analysis of weak signals, specific to the scanning and sensemaking stages in futures research. It identifies key variations of applying collective intelligence to weak signals that shape the result of the research process: selection of participants for collective intelligence (from controlled to open) and ways of collaboration in the collective intelligence process (from fully collective to switching between collective and individual mode). It also gives an example of a successful application of collective intelligence to weak signals analysis and suggests possible models that can be fitting for identifying and interpreting weak signals of change. It further discusses the current implications of AI for foresight and possible future implications of its development (“explainable AI” and human-machine collaboration).

Originality/value

The paper hypothesizes on the emerging challenges in the field of collective intelligence for weak signals of change and suggests a new framework for mapping the field. The paper has not been published before.
Testing the mediation effects of contingent factors on the relationship between management control systems and performance in higher education institutions
Authors: Sofyani Hafiez , Sholihin Mahfud , Saleh Zakiah , Isa Che Ruhana
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study examines the mediating role of three psychological contingent factors: collegiality, creativity, and job satisfaction, on the relationship between management control system (MCS) implementation and performance of study programs in higher education institutions (HEIs). This study also examines the impact of contingent factors from organizational aspects such as HEI types, lecturer’s age, experience and qualifications.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a survey method with 581 permanent lecturers who were subjected to MCS at HIEs as respondents. A partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach, with mediation analysis, is used to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that the implementation of MCSs, in both public and private HEIs, from the output and behavioral control dimensions is positively associated with the performance of the study programs, but input control is not. Additionally, creativity and job satisfaction are positively associated with the performance of the study programs, but not for collegiality. From the mediation analyses, creativity and job satisfaction mediate the relationship of all dimensions of MCS in relation to performance, except for one, namely, creativity does not mediate the relationship between behavioral control and performance. The analysis, however, reveals that collegiality does not mediate the relationship between all MCS dimensions and performance. The results of the multigroup analysis on different HEI types (public vs private) and demographic factors are discussed further.

Practical implications

The study’s findings offer valuable guidance for authorities on designing MCS models to enhance HEI study program performance. It highlights seven key contingent factors to consider: collegiality, creativity, job satisfaction, HEI type, age, experience and educational qualifications.

Originality/value

This study addresses the research gap related to the design of MCS in HEIs, and the inconsistencies of their role in performance by examining the influence of seven contingent factors addressed in prior literature. By so doing, this study provides new insights into the impact of collegiality, creativity, job satisfaction, different HEIs types (public vs private), age, experience and educational qualifications on the relationship between MCS implementation and performance of HEIs.
Modeling enablers of logistics outsourcing adoption: a case of manufacturing industry
Authors: Alsmairart Mohammad A.K.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Innovation capabilities, changes in customer expectations and continuous supply chain (SC) network disruptions bring complexity and challenges to manufacturing firms (MFs). This study examines the influence of uncertainty, supplier innovation, cost reduction and integration of third-party logistics (3PLs) and fourth-party logistics (4PLs) on logistics outsourcing adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data collected from 180 managers in MFs in Jordan, our proposed research model was tested using partial least squares-SEM (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings suggest that supplier innovation and integration with 3PLs and 4PLs are key enablers of adopting logistics outsourcing in the manufacturing sector. Further, the findings indicate no significant impact of uncertainty and cost reduction as logistics outsourcing enablers. The results also suggest that integration with 3PLs and 4PLs mediate fully and positively the path between supplier innovation and logistics outsourcing adoption.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the manufacturing literature by providing a better understanding of the main enablers of logistics outsourcing in the manufacturing sector, simultaneously tackling dependence and enhancing adoption performance in the innovation and disruptions SC era. Further, it expands the understanding of the integration between SC partners in these twofold roles.
Role of governance in place making in intergenerational living and learning campuses for seniors and teenagers
Authors: Narula Nehchal Kaur , Pancholi Surabhi , Kreutz Angela , Sanders Paul
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to elucidate the role of governance in design, development and sustenance of intergenerational living and learning campuses for seniors and teenagers and identifying the considerations, barriers and opportunities for place making in such shared campuses.

Design/methodology/approach

A single-case study approach based on semi-structured interviews using photo-elicitation and on-site observations was undertaken at the co-located campus of an aged care facility and school in Australia. The data was analysed through inductive-deductive content analysis using the lens of a pre-conceived place making framework.

Findings

Strong and adaptive governance on an organizational level is important for the design, development and sustenance of intergenerational living and learning campuses to overcome the multi-faceted barriers posed by the community and segregation between the aged care and education sectors. There is a need for co-locating organizations to mesh the intergenerational vision with their individual policies and goals using a spatio-environmental, psychological, socio-cultural, organisational and politico-economic lens on a micro, meso and macro scale.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the emerging literature on intergenerational living and learning campuses for seniors and teenagers using the lens of place and place making, particularly in the Australian context where intergenerational programmes are still in their infancy.