bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Electrical control of the transduction channels’ gating force in sensory hair cells
Authors: Joliot Achille , Stickel Laure , Martin Pascal 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTHair cells, the sensory receptors of the inner ear, rely on mechanosensitive ion channels to transduce mechanical vibrations of their hair bundle into electrical signals. The mechanical correlate of channel gating—the gating force—is a fundamental determinant of hair-cell mechanosensitivity to displacements of the hair bundle. We report here the effects of varying the electrical potential across the epithelium that houses the hair cells on the gating force. We found that a negative potential in the endolymph that bathed the hair bundles increased the gating force by up to twofold, while positive endolymphatic potentials had the opposite effect. In contrast, the endolymphatic potential only weakly affected hair-bundle stiffness. Together, our results indicate that the gating force varied because the gating swing varied, from values that are comparable to the pore size of the transduction channels to values nearly tenfold as large. When the endolymphatic potential reached a negative threshold value of about −50 mV, our work further revealed a reversible, but hysteretic, transition between states of strong and weak gating force, for which the hair bundles oscillated spontaneously or remained quiescent, respectively. Finally, we provide evidence that these effects resulted from a modulation of the Ca2+influx through the transduction channels and that a minimal influx is necessary to produce strong gating forces. We propose that force sensitivity of the transduction channel protein complex can be adjusted by the hair cell depending on physiological control parameters.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe inner ear’s hair cells rely on mechanosensitive ion channels to convert vibrations of their hair bundles into electrical signals. We show that varying the electrical potential across the sensory hair-cell epithelium continuously modulates a fundamental determinant of mechanosensitivity called the gating force. Remarkably, a hair cell can also switch between states of weak and strong gating force at negative potentials, so that strong gating forces associated to high mechanosensitivity are observed only when the calcium influx through the channels is large enough, but not too large. Gating-force control is expected to underly the ear’s ability to achieve exquisite mechanosensitivity to minute sound stimuli and be relevant to biological systems relying on direct mechanical gating of ion channels.
Exploring Cognitive and Neuroimaging Profiles of Dementia Subtypes of Individuals with Dementia in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Ikanga Jean , Patel Saranya Sundaram , Schwinne Megan , Obenauf Caterina , Epenge Emmanuel , Gikelekele Guy , Tshengele Nathan , Kavugho Immaculee , Mampunza Samuel , Mananga Lelo , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Rojas Julio C. , Chan Brandon , Lario Lago Argentina , Kramer Joel H. , Boxer Adam L. , Jeromin Andreas , Omba Emile , Alonso Alvaro , Gross Alden L. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe 2024 Alzheimer’s Association (AA) research diagnostic criteria for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) considers fluid biomarkers, including promising blood-based biomarkers for detecting AD. This study aims to identify dementia subtypes and their cognitive and neuroimaging profiles in older adults with dementia in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) using biomarkers and clinical data.MethodsForty-five individuals with dementia over 65 years old were evaluated using the Community Screening Instrument for Dementia and the informant-based Alzheimer’s Questionnaire. Core AD biomarkers (Aβ42/40 and p-tau181) and non-specific neurodegeneration biomarkers (NfL, GFAP) were measured in blood plasma. Neuroimaging structures were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Dementia subtypes were determined based on plasma biomarker pathology and vascular markers. Biomarker cutoff scores were identified to optimize sensitivity and specificity. Individuals were stratified into one of four dementia subtypes – AD only, non-AD vascular, non-AD other, or mixed – based on combinations of abnormalities in these markers.ResultsAmong the 45 individuals with dementia, mixed dementia had the highest prevalence (42.4%), followed by AD-only (24.4%), non-AD other dementia (22.2%), and non-AD vascular dementia subtypes (11.1%). Both cognitive and neuroimaging profiles aligned poorly with biomarker classifications in the full sample. Cognitive tests varied across dementia subtypes. The cognitive profile of the AD-only and mixed groups suggested relatively low cognitive performance, while the non-AD and other groups had the best scores on average.ConclusionConsistent with studies in other settings, our preliminary findings suggest that neurodegenerative plasma biomarkers may help to identify dementia subtypes and provide insight into cognitive and neuroimaging profiles among older adults in the DRC.
H2−CH4
van der Waals compounds under rapid compression
Authors: Yan Jinwei , Osmond Israel , Howie Ross T. , Gregoryanz Eugene , Peña-Alvarez Miriam 
Published: December 2024

Under high pressure, methane and hydrogen form (CH4)2H2, CH4(H2)2, and (CH4)3(H2)25 van der Waals compounds with stoichiometries determined by the H2 concentration. This study investigates the effect of compression rates (up to 183 GPa/s) on the formation and morphology of these compounds at pressures up to 60 GPa utilizing dynamic diamond anvil cells combined with time-resolved Raman spectroscopy. Compression rates exceeding 100 GPa/s inhibit the formation of (CH4)3(H2)25, while CH4(H2)2 and (CH4)2H2 remain unaffected. Furthermore, lower compression rates yield distinct leaflike and globular sample morphologies depending on the H2 concentration, while rates above 20 GPa/s consistently result in textureless mixtures, regardless of H2 concentration. These combined results demonstrate the competition between transition time and kinetic barriers, together with the critical role of the compression rate during dynamic-pressure nonequilibrium processes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Assessing barriers of automation and robotics adoption in the Indian construction industry: a fuzzy DEMATEL approach
Authors: Patel Tirth , Bapat Hirakraj , Patel Daksh 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Despite global advancements, the Indian construction industry lags in adopting technologies like robots, artificial intelligence, drones, unmanned ground vehicles and Internet of Things sensors due to various barriers. This reliance on traditional practices leads to persistent issues such as labour shortages, low productivity, safety risks, cost overruns and delays. Identifying and addressing these barriers is crucial for adopting advanced technologies. Hence, this study aims to identify and assess the influential barriers to construction automation and robotics (AaR) in India using a systematic approach.

Design/methodology/approach
An extensive literature review identified key barriers, including technological, financial, regulatory, environmental and organisational. A questionnaire survey was conducted among industry professionals, and the Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory technique was used to evaluate the interrelationships and relative significance of these barriers.

Findings
The results of the study reveal the most critical cause barriers as “high initial cost”, “rigidity in organisational processes and procedures”, “interoperability”, “lack of competency” and “lack of standardisation”. These barriers subsequently influence the top two effect barriers such as “market uncertainty” and “ethical concerns”.

Practical implications
This research offers a systematic and quantitative assessment, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and develop strategies to overcome barriers to AaR adoption, unlocking the transformative potential of AaR in India’s construction sector.

Originality/value
Despite potential benefits, the adoption of AaR in Indian construction remains limited due to various barriers. This study provides novel insights with the first comprehensive assessment of these barriers and their interrelationships.
From humble roots to innovative shoots: the dynamic duo of psychological safety and knowledge-sharing under humble leadership
Authors: Dahiya Rinki 
Published: December 2024

PurposeIn the pursuit of unravelling the dynamics of leadership and innovation in the workplace, the present study endeavours to construct and empirically validate a comprehensive serially mediated moderation process model that links humble leadership (HBL) and employee innovative work behaviour (E-IWB). Also, this model offers a nuanced understanding of the sequential interplay of perceived psychological safety (PPS) and employee knowledge-sharing behaviour (E-KSB). Furthermore, the study delves into the moderating influence of occupational self-efficacy (OSE), seeking to uncover the conditions under which the positive effects of E-KSB on E-IWB are accentuated within the context of expressed humility.Design/methodology/approachTime-lagged data were collected from 225 subordinate–supervisor dyads in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) of the Indian apparel manufacturing sector utilising survey methods. IBM SPSS, AMOS and PROCESS Macro were used to analyse the data.FindingsThe findings indicate that HBL positively influences E-IWB with the serial mediating role of PPS and E-KSB. Also, OSE moderates the link between E-KSB and E-IWB so that the positive indirect effect of HBL on E-IWB through PPS and E-KSB in the serial process is more pronounced at higher levels of OSE.Originality/valueThis study contributes insights by proposing and empirically testing a serially mediated moderation process model that elucidates the intricate relationships between HBL, PPS, E-KSB and E-IWB. The exploration of OSE as a moderator enriches the understanding of the conditions under which the positive and indirect effects unfold. The research thus provides a nuanced framework for leadership and innovation dynamics, offering a valuable guide for organisations seeking to foster a culture of humility for enhanced employee innovation in SME contexts.
Lesson study in Switzerland: from research to dissemination and back
Authors: Clivaz Stéphane , Clerc-Georgy Anne , Oberthaler Urs , Frank Schmid Silvia 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThis article aims to evaluate the current state and planned progress of lesson study (LS) in Switzerland, specifically focusing on the efforts made by different university teacher education institutions across three language regions of the country.Design/methodology/approachFirst, a literature review is carried out to establish the LS research situation in Switzerland. In a second step, LS projects implemented in three different language regions across Switzerland and key findings thereof will be presented.FindingsLS in Switzerland has progressed in terms of research, as can be seen from the publication of 18 papers from seven different universities and classified into three categories. The majority of these papers stem from the Lausanne Laboratory Lesson Study. Swiss LS has also attracted attention in some neighbouring countries. Nevertheless, the sustainability of the LS process in Switzerland is still in its infancy. Some unfavourable factors are due to the cantonal and versatile structure of the Swiss education system. However, thanks to the centre of expertise for LS at Lausanne University of Teacher Education, LS is expanding to other regions of Switzerland.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this paper does not delve into extensive research on the development of LS in Switzerland, it highlights the need for further research to analyse the conditions and constraints impacting the sustainability of learning communities in the country.Originality/valueThis paper represents the first literature review specifically addressing LS in Switzerland, offering a comprehensive assessment of its research development. Additionally, it is the first study to examine the development of learning communities across different language regions of the country. Moreover, it shows how LS can be implemented and adapted to the varied educational preconditions in Switzerland.
The role of formal institutional agents in building legitimacy: insights from the personal protective equipment industry
Authors: Wolek Rocha Amanda , Monticelli Jefferson M. , Verschoore Jorge Renato 
Published: December 2024

PurposeOur paper examines how formal institutional agents influence the legitimacy of companies in a highly regulated industry. We focus on the Brazilian personal protective equipment (PPE) industry because its characteristics are particularly suited to this investigation. Companies are subject to isomorphic pressures imposed by regulatory demands they must comply with for successful market entry, and the institutional environment plays a significant role in shaping organizations’ strategic decision-making. However, customer purchasing decisions are often influenced by price rather than by an organization’s performance in pre-certification testing.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a case study, holding 13 semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including PPE manufacturers, their suppliers and customers, representatives from formal institutional agents, industry experts and consultants.FindingsOur findings highlight the role of formal institutional agents in creating and implementing the rules of the institutional environment. However, we found that the regulatory framework alone has insufficient credibility to establish legitimacy for PPE manufacturers from the perspective of their consumers. This is in part because of weak regulatory oversight, manifested as the absence of enforcement through post-certification inspections, which is possibly due to mimetic isomorphism.Originality/valueOur study contributes to the field of organizational legitimacy by analyzing and offering insights into the role of formal institutional agents in a regulated industry. In the empirical field, it helps organizations to understand how institutions impact customers’ perception of legitimacy in the market, paradoxically, by showing that sometimes the impact is negligible.
The contribution of the public library in promoting reading culture among library users in Rwanda
Authors: Wema Evans Frank , Kabagambe Jean 
Published: December 2024

Purpose This study examined the contribution of the public library in promoting reading culture among library users in Rwanda.Design/methodology/approach The study employed a case study research design, with a qualitative approach where data were collected through interviews and focus group discussions.Findings The findings show that the library was being used by most library users for reading. However, most library users utilized the library for the purposes of gaining knowledge and relaxation. Among the factors that hinder library users from reading in the library included long distances to reach the public library, financial constraints, addiction to watching television and other viewing gadgets, difficulty in distinguishing main ideas from relevant details, slow reading rate, inadequate reading interests, unavailability of reading materials and inadequate vocabularies.Research limitations/implications The public library helps to promote the reading culture among library users and acts as a link to socio-economic discussions; however, there are factors that hinder effective reading culture.Originality/value The study is among the few ever to be carried out in the Rwandan setting owing to the nature of its public library services being focused on a varying category of users from academics to other citizens.
Traumatic experiences, dissociative symptoms, and alexithymia in patients with alopecia areata
Authors: Demirgil Furkan , Kuğu Nesim , Yılmaz Yavuz 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAlthough genetic, environmental, autoimmune, and psychological factors are believed to play a role in the onset of alopecia areata (AA), the exact cause remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether there are differences in traumatic experiences, dissociative symptoms, and alexithymia levels between groups. Fifty eight patients diagnosed with AA, 58 individuals with dermatological diseases thought to have a low psychosomatic component, and 58 individuals not diagnosed with any chronic disease were included in the study. All participants were assessed using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ‐28), Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5), and Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS‐20). A Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐5 (SCID‐5‐CV) form was used to exclude additional psychiatric diagnoses. Mean scores on the CTQ‐28 scale revealed differences between groups in terms of physical neglect and emotional neglect scores (p < 0.001; p = 0.022; p < 0.001). There were no differences in DES scores between groups (p = 0.085). When compared in terms of TAS‐20 and PCL‐5 scores, differences were found (p = 0.016; p = 0.024). As a result of this study, it was concluded that physical neglect and emotional neglect could play a significant role in the onset of AA. Alexithymia and traumatic stress disorder symptoms might be more prevalent in patients with AA.
Hydrochemical Constraints on the Flowing Paths of Groundwater in Limestone Reservoirs beneath the Pingdingshan Coalfield in North China
Authors: WU Zhanhui , WANG Xinyi , LI Jiexiang , CUI Junchao , ZHANG Bo 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe karst groundwater of Cambrian limestone may become an important water source for industry and agriculture in the Pingdingshan area, and is also a potential threat to mining safety. Therefore, to find out the origin, flow paths, and hydrogeochemical processes of karst groundwater beneath the Pingdingshan coalfield, a total of 16 water samples were collected. Our findings confirmed that the karst groundwater is mainly recharged by precipitation. The precipitation can directly supply the deep aquifer of the karst water system through the southwest limestone outcrops, and this area mostly includes the southern part of mines No. 11, No. 9, and the hidden outcrops in the southern part of mine No. 2. What is more, the areas adjacent to the synclinal axis, including mines No. 10, No. 12, and No. 8, may be the main discharge areas. A mixing model of 87Sr/86Sr and Sr showed that in the southwest Pingdingshan coalfield, the proportion of precipitation decreased gradually from the recharge area to the discharge area, ranging from 89.1% to 17.1%. Besides, the northeast Pingdingshan coalfield is another recharge area for the whole karst system, thus, the infiltrating groundwater will indirectly supply the deep aquifer through Quaternary deposition near the mine No. 13. Our research results can provide theoretical support for the prevention and control of groundwater disasters and the development and utilization of regional groundwater resources in the coalfield in Northern China.
Outcomes of patients registered with the Queensland Trophoblast Centre diagnosed with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia who develop resistance to chemotherapy
Authors: Welsh Meg , Morrison Shona , Baartz David , Sanday Karen , Garrett Andrea 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesTo audit outcomes of patients registered in the Queensland Trophoblast Centre (QTC) database who develop resistance to primary chemotherapy. To determine any risk factors that may predict first‐line chemotherapy resistance in patients diagnosed with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN).MethodsPatients within the QTC who were diagnosed with GTN between January 2012 and December 2020 were reviewed.ResultsOf 138 patients with GTN registered in the QTC, 22 (15.9%) patients developed resistance to first‐line chemotherapy. Three had high‐risk GTN and 19 had low‐risk GTN. Of the three high‐risk patients, one patient died. This patient had an epithelioid trophoblastic tumour (ETT). The remaining two high‐risk patients had complete hydatidiform moles (CHM) with GTN. Both achieved complete remission with salvage therapy. Of the 19 low‐risk patients, one patient had a partial hydatidiform mole (PHM). This patient achieved remission following third‐line treatment. The other 18 low‐risk patients had CHM with GTN. All but two of these 18 patients were successfully treated with second‐line chemotherapy, with the remaining two patients achieving remission with third‐line chemotherapy. Five of the 18 patients received either actinomycin‐D or methotrexate as salvage therapy. Thirteen patients were given multi‐agent chemotherapy for second‐line treatment. One patient in this group died but this was not due to her disease. Initial β human chorionic gonadotropin levels were not predictive of number of chemotherapy cycles or number of lines of chemotherapy required to achieve remission.ConclusionsGTN is a curable condition. If resistance to first‐line chemotherapy occurred, most patients achieved remission with salvage therapy.
Effect of two rhinoplasty techniques combined with vestibuloplasty on the cross‐sectional area of the rostral nasal cavity in brachycephalic dogs with stenotic nares
Authors: Shimura K , Franklin CD , House AK 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveTo compare preoperative and postoperative cross‐sectional areas (CSAs) of the external nares and nasal vestibule on computed tomography (CT) transverse sections in brachycephalic dogs that underwent a vestibuloplasty in combination with either a Trader's technique or vertical wedge resection rhinoplasty.MethodsMedical records and corresponding preoperative and postoperative head computed tomographic images were reviewed to measure CSA at two defined points on transverse sections of the nasal cavities.ResultsNine brachycephalic dogs were included for analysis. Trader's technique and vestibuloplasty were performed in five dogs. Vertical wedge resection and vestibuloplasty were performed in four dogs. CSAs were significantly increased in all rostral nasal cavities postoperatively in both combination of techniques. The mean difference in CSA of the right and left external nares were 37.12 mm2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 24.59, 49.66) and 64.3 mm2 (95% CI 28.78, 60. 04), respectively. The mean difference in CSA of the right and left nasal vestibules were 25.08 mm2 (95% CI 11.44, 38.73) and 28.73 mm2 (95% CI 11.83, 45.64), respectively.Clinical SignificanceVestibuloplasty in combination with either Trader's technique or vertical wedge resection significantly increased the CSA of the external nares and nasal vestibules. These techniques did not result in recurrent stenosis or collapse of the alar wings in all evaluated rostral nasal cavities in this case series.