bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of amylopectin granule accumulation during the course of the chronicToxoplasmainfection is linked to intra-cyst bradyzoite replication
Authors: Tripathi Aashutosh , Donkin Ryan W. , Miracle Joy S. , Murphy Robert D. , Gentry Matthew S. , Patwardhan Abhijit , Sinai Anthony P. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe contribution of amylopectin granules (AG), comprised of a branched chain storage homopolymer of glucose, to the maintenance and progression of the chronicToxoplasma gondiiinfection has remained undefined. Here we describe the role of AG in the physiology of encysted bradyzoites by using a custom developed imaging-based application AmyloQuant that permitted quantification of relative levels of AG withinin vivoderived tissue cysts during the initiation and maturation of the chronic infection. Our findings establish that AG are dynamic entities, exhibiting considerable heterogeneity among tissue cysts at all post infection time points examined. Quantification of relative AG levels within tissue cysts exposes a previously unrecognized temporal cycle defined by distinct phases of AG accumulation and utilization over the first 6 weeks of the chronic phase. This AG cycle is temporally coordinated with overall bradyzoite mitochondrial activity implicating amylopectin in the maintenance and progression of the chronic infection. In addition, the staging of AG accumulation and its rapid utilization within encysted bradyzoites was associated with a burst of coordinated replication. As such our findings suggest that AG levels within individual bradyzoites, and across bradyzoites within tissue cysts may represent a key component in the licensing of bradyzoite replication, intimately linking stored metabolic potential to the course of the chronic infection. This extends the impact of AG beyond the previously assigned role that focused exclusively on parasite transmission. These findings force a fundamental reassessment of the chronicToxoplasmainfection, highlighting the critical need to address the temporal progression of this crucial stage in the parasite life cycle.
β-glucan reprograms alveolar macrophages via neutrophil/IFNγ axis to promote lung injury
Authors: Prével Renaud , Pernet Erwan , Tran Kim A , Sadek Abderrahmane , Sadeghi Mina , Lapshina Elizabeth , Jurado Leonardo , Kristof Arnold S. , Moumni Mohieddine , Poschmann Jérémie , Divangahi Maziar 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAlveolar macrophages (AMs) reside in the lower airways and play a crucial role in lung health and response to sterile inflammation and infections. AMs possess remarkable adaptability to different environmental challenges that can persist through their memory capacity (trained immunity). β-glucan has been characterized as a potent inducer of central trained immunity by reprogramming hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow. In the present study, we show that systemic administration of β-glucan induces peripheral trained immunity by reprogramming alveolar macrophages (AMs) in the lungs, in a Dectin1-independent manner. We furthermore demonstrate that AM reprogramming at both the transcriptional and metabolic levels exacerbate lung injury following bacterial (LPS) or viral (polyI:C) challenges via a neutrophil/IFN-γ dependent manner. These findings identify an additional facet of β-glucan in trained immunity involving AM reprogramming and shed light on the potential detrimental effects of trained immunity.
Metaverse adoption in the manufacturing industry: impact on social and environmental sustainability performance
Authors: Mubarak Muhammad Faraz , Ghobakhloo Morteza , Evans Richard , Jucevicius Giedrius , Prestianawati Silvi Asna , Mubarik Mobashar 
Published: September 2024

PurposeThis study aims to examine the adoption of Metaverse technology in the manufacturing industry and its potential impact on firms’ social and environmental sustainability performance.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 157 technology-based firms in the Malaysian high-tech manufacturing industry and analyzed using PLS-SEM to investigate the influence of social (i.e. social capital, open/innovative culture and empowerment) and technological factors (i.e. digitalization preparedness, integrability and strategic value) on Metaverse adoption and the moderating roles of digital trust and absorptive capacity.FindingsSocial and technological factors were found to significantly impact Metaverse adoption, with digital trust enhancing the influence of social factors. Absorptive capacity strengthens firms’ abilities to use social factors for adoption. However, digital trust does not significantly moderate the relationship between technological factors and adoption, nor does absorptive capacity impact this relationship. Finally, Metaverse adoption is shown to positively contribute to firms’ social sustainability, improving social well-being and equity, but it does not significantly impact environmental sustainability.Practical implicationsFor practitioners, the study highlights the importance of fostering an organizational culture that supports digital trust and developing absorptive capacity as critical enablers of successful Metaverse adoption. Policy implications include the need for creating supportive policies that encourage digital transformation efforts aligned with sustainability goals.Originality/valueTheoretically, this study integrates the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, Human-Organization-Technology fit (HOT-fit) framework and Resource-Based View (RBV) to improve understanding of technology adoption and sustainability performance. From a managerial perspective, it highlights the importance of fostering digital trust and developing absorptive capacity as critical enablers of successful Metaverse adoption. Policy implications include the need for policies supporting digital transformation efforts aligned with sustainability goals.
A new thermo-optical system with a fractional Caputo operator for a rotating spherical semiconductor medium immersed in a magnetic field
Authors: Abouelregal Ahmed E. , Marin Marin , Saskar S.S. , Foul Abdelaziz 
Published: September 2024

PurposeUnderstanding the mechanical and thermal behavior of materials is the goal of the branch of study known as fractional thermoelasticity, which blends fractional calculus with thermoelasticity. It accounts for the fact that heat transfer and deformation are non-local processes that depend on long-term memory. The sphere is free of external stresses and rotates around one of its radial axes at a constant rate. The coupled system equations are solved using the Laplace transform. The outcomes showed that the viscoelastic deformation and thermal stresses increased with the value of the fractional order coefficients.Design/methodology/approachThe results obtained are considered good because they indicate that the approach or model under examination shows robust performance and produces accurate or reliable results that are consistent with the corresponding literature.FindingsThis study introduces a proposed viscoelastic photoelastic heat transfer model based on the Moore-Gibson-Thompson framework, accompanied by the incorporation of a new fractional derivative operator. In deriving this model, the recently proposed Caputo proportional fractional derivative was considered. This work also sheds light on how thermoelastic materials transfer light energy and how plasmas interact with viscoelasticity. The derived model was used to consider the behavior of a solid semiconductor sphere immersed in a magnetic field and subjected to a sudden change in temperature.Originality/valueThis study introduces a proposed viscoelastic photoelastic heat transfer model based on the Moore-Gibson-Thompson framework, accompanied by the incorporation of a new fractional derivative operator. In deriving this model, the recently proposed Caputo proportional fractional derivative was considered. This work also sheds light on how thermoelastic materials transfer light energy and how plasmas interact with viscoelasticity. The derived model was used to consider the behavior of a solid semiconductor sphere immersed in a magnetic field and subjected to a sudden change in temperature.
Rallying around the leader in times of crises: The opposing effects of perceived threat and anxiety
Authors: LEHRER RONI , BAHNSEN OKE , MÜLLER KLARA , NEUNHOEFFER MARCEL , GSCHWEND THOMAS , JUHL SEBASTIAN 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIn times of crisis, citizens tend to increase their approval of the government and its leader which can shift the balance of power. This ‘rally effect’ is a persistent empirical regularity; however, the literature is still undecided on its underlying causal mechanisms. We argue that crises induce threat and anxiety and hypothesize that perceived threat increases approval of the incumbent leader, whereas anxiety decreases it. By analysing German panel data from the COVID‐19 pandemic, we causally identify both mechanisms and provide systematic evidence supporting this theory. Moreover, we increase the scope of our theory and show that both mechanisms are also at work when citizens approve cabinet members who manage key portfolios. Our findings have highly important implications for our understanding of the rally effect and crises politics in democracies.
A comprehensive review of current approaches on food waste reduction strategies
Authors: Urugo Markos Makiso , Teka Tilahun A. , Gemede Habtamu Fikadu , Mersha Siwan , Tessema Ararsa , Woldemariam Henock Woldemichael , Admassu Habtamu 
Published: September 2024

AbstractFood waste is a serious worldwide issue that has an impact on the environment, society, and economy. This comprehensive review provides a detailed description of methods and approaches for reducing food waste, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive strategies to tackle its intricate relationship with environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic prosperity. By scrutinizing the extent and impact of food waste, from initial production stages to final disposal, this comprehensive review underlines the urgent need for integrated solutions that include technological advancements, behavioral interventions, regulatory frameworks, and collaborative endeavors. Environmental assessments highlight the significant contribution of food waste to greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation, water scarcity, and energy inefficiency, thereby emphasizing the importance of curtailing its environmental impact. Concurrently, the social and economic consequences of food waste, such as food insecurity, economic losses, and disparities in food access, underscore the imperative for coordinated action across multiple sectors. Food waste can also be effectively reduced by various innovative approaches, such as technological waste reduction solutions, supply chain optimization strategies, consumer behavior‐focused initiatives, and waste recovery and recycling techniques. Furthermore, in order to foster an environment that encourages the reduction of food waste and facilitates the transition to a circular economy, legislative changes and regulatory actions are essential. By embracing these multifaceted strategies and approaches, stakeholders can unite to confront the global food waste crisis, thereby fostering resilience, sustainability, and social equity within our food systems.
A novel method to assess the integrity of frozen archival DNA samples: Alpha‐diversity ratios of short‐ and long‐read 16S rRNA gene sequences
Authors: Sumby K. M. , Stephen J. R. , Austin J. J. , Schilling R. K. , Cavagnaro T. R. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Archival DNA samples collected and analysed for a range of research and applied questions have accumulated in the laboratories of universities, government agencies and commercial service providers for decades. These DNA archives represent a valuable, yet largely un‐tapped repository of genomic information. With lowering costs of, and increasing access to, high‐throughput sequencing, we predict an increase in retrospective research to explore the wealth of information that resides in these archival samples. However, for this to occur, we need confidence in the integrity of the DNA samples, often stored under suboptimal conditions and their fitness of purpose for downstream genomic analysis.

Here, we borrow from a well‐established concept in ancient DNA to evaluate sample integrity, defined as loss of information content in recovered amplicons, of frozen DNA samples and based on the ratio of ⍺‐diversity of short‐ and long‐read 16S rRNA gene sequences.

The 16S rRNA variable region of 87 stored DNA samples, extracted from soil, collected from western and southern agricultural regions of Australia between 2001 and 2021 were sequenced using both PacBio full length reads (V1–V9, 1.5 kbp) and Illumina short‐reads (V3–V4, 200–450 bp). When ⍺‐diversity ratios were calculated between the long and short reads to assess DNA degradation, the ratio of ⍺‐diversity did not decrease in older samples versus younger samples.

We suggest this as a novel method to confirm integrity of DNA before embarking on large‐scale diversity profiling projects using archival DNA.
Phenological growth stages of Amaranthus palmeri according to the extended BBCH scale
Authors: Yuan Gao , Yin Minglu , Nie Tangjie , Chen Yao , Sun Liyong , Yin Zengfang 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAmaranthus palmeri S. Watson is a problematic weed that has been encountered almost all over the world because of its stronger adaptability, which causes huge economic losses and local plant diversity decline. As an invasive plant, A. palmeri has been found throughout China. We thus make a code system to describe the phenological growth process of A. palmeri according to the extended BBCH scale to better understand the phenological growth of this weed in China. The growth process of A. palmeri was divided into vegetative growth phases and reproductive growth phases. The vegetative growth phases are composed of seed germination (0), leaf development (1), formation of side shoots (2) and main stem elongation (3). Likewise, the reproductive growth phases include inflorescence emergence (5), blooming (6), fruit development (7), seed maturity (8) and senescence (9). Based on the extended BBCH scale, the first digit stands for the primary growth stages, and the third digit represents the secondary growth stages. In particular, the second digit defines the growth progress: the number 0, means the vegetative growth phases, and the number 1 stands for the reproductive growth phases. Owing to the fact that its seed can germinate multiple times within a year, a general illustration of the phenological development stages of A. palmeri germinating in different months was provided here to describe the growth dynamic characteristic at different times. These data are of great significance to develop effective strategies for weed control and management of A. palmeri.
Letter: Potential impact of Helicobacter pylori infection on oesophageal disorders in chronic liver disease
Authors: Kountouras Jannis , Vardaka Elisabeth , Zavos Christos , Chatzopoulos Dimitrios , Tzitiridou‐Chatzopoulou Maria , Tzilves Dimitrios , Zournatzidou Georgia , Kyrailidou Foteini , Mouratidou Maria C. 
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENTThis article is linked to Idalsoaga et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18193 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18246
Dietary Natural Flavonoids: Intervention for MAO‐B Against Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Singh Ashini , Sinha Suman , Singh Niraj Kumar 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTParkinson's disease (PD) stands as the second most common neurological disorder after Alzheimer's disease, primarily affecting the elderly population and significantly compromising their quality of life. The precise etiology of PD remains elusive, but recent research has shed light on potential factors, including the formation of α‐synuclein aggregates, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, and dopaminergic neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) region of the brain, culminating in motor symptoms such as bradykinesia, akinesia, tremors, and rigidity. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) is an essential enzyme, comprising two isoforms, MAO‐A and MAO‐B, responsible for the oxidation of monoamines such as dopamine. Increased MAO‐B activity is responsible for decreased dopamine levels in the SNpc region of mid brain which is remarkably associated with the pathogenesis of PD‐like manifestations. Inhibitors of MAO‐B enhance striatal neuronal responses to dopamine, making them valuable in treating PD, which involves dopamine deficiency. Clinically approved MAO‐B inhibitors such as selegiline, L‐deprenyl, pargyline, and rasagiline are employed in the management of neurodegenerative conditions associated with PD. Current therapeutic interventions including MAO‐B inhibitors for PD predominantly aim to alleviate these motor symptoms but often come with a host of side effects that can be particularly challenging for the patients. While effective, they have limitations, prompting a search for alternative treatments, there is a growing interest in exploring natural products notably flavonoids as potential sources of novel MAO‐B inhibitors. In line with that, the present review focuses on natural flavonoids of plant origin that hold promise as potential candidates for the development of novel MAO‐B inhibitors. The discussion encompasses both in vitro and in vivo studies, shedding light on their potential therapeutic applications. Furthermore, this review underscores the significance of exploring natural products as valuable reservoirs of MAO‐B inhibitors, offering new avenues for drug development and addressing the pressing need for improved treatments in PD‐like pathological conditions. The authors of this review majorly explore the neuroprotective potential of natural flavonoids exhibiting notable MAO‐B inhibitory activity and additionally multi‐targeted approaches in the treatment of PD with clinical evidence and challenges faced in current therapeutic approaches.
Understanding author choices in the current conservation publishing landscape
Authors: Yoh Natalie , Holle Mukhlish Jamal Musa , Willis Jasmin , Rudd Lauren F. , Fraser Iain M. , Veríssimo Diogo 
Published: September 2024

AbstractConservation literature addresses a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary questions and benefits. Conservation science benefits most when a diverse range of authors are represented, particularly those from countries where much conservation work is focused. In other disciplines, it is well known that barriers and biases exist in the academic publishing sphere, which can affect research dissemination and an author's career development. We used a discrete choice experiment to determine how 7 journal attributes affect authors’ choices of where to publish in conservation. We targeted authors directly by contacting authors published in 18 target journals and indirectly via communication channels for conservation organizations. We only included respondents who had previously published in a conservation‐related journal. We used a multinomial logit model and a latent class model to investigate preferences for all respondents and distinct subpopulations. We identified 3 demographic groups across 1038 respondents (older authors from predominantly middle‐income countries, younger authors from predominantly middle‐income countries, and younger authors from high‐income countries) who had published in conservation journals. Each group exhibited different publishing preferences. Only 2 attributes showed a consistent response across groups: cost to publish negatively affected journal choice, including authors in high‐income countries, and authors had a consistent preference for double‐blind review. Authors from middle‐income countries were willing to pay more for society‐owned journals, unlike authors from high‐income countries. Journals with a broad geographical scope that were open access and that had relatively high impact factors were preferred by 2 of the 3 demographic groups. However, journal scope and open access were more important in dictating journal choice than impact factor. Overall, different demographics had different preferences for journals and were limited in their selection based on attributes such as open access policy. However, the scarcity of respondents from low‐income countries (2% of respondents) highlights the pervasive barriers to representation in conservation research. We recommend journals offer double‐blind review, reduce or remove open access fees, investigate options for free editorial support, and better acknowledge the value of local‐scale single‐species studies. Academic societies in particular must reflect on how their journals support conservation and conservation professionals.
Exploring Early Number Abilities With Multimodal Transformers
Authors: Hein Alice , Diepold Klaus 
Published: September 2024

AbstractEarly number skills represent critical milestones in children's cognitive development and are shaped over years of interacting with quantities and numerals in various contexts. Several connectionist computational models have attempted to emulate how certain number concepts may be learned, represented, and processed in the brain. However, these models mainly used highly simplified inputs and focused on limited tasks. We expand on previous work in two directions: First, we train a model end‐to‐end on video demonstrations in a synthetic environment with multimodal visual and language inputs. Second, we use a more holistic dataset of 35 tasks, covering enumeration, set comparisons, symbolic digits, and seriation. The order in which the model acquires tasks reflects input length and variability, and the resulting trajectories mostly fit with findings from educational psychology. The trained model also displays symbolic and non‐symbolic size and distance effects. Using techniques from interpretability research, we investigate how our attention‐based model integrates cross‐modal representations and binds them into context‐specific associative networks to solve different tasks. We compare models trained with and without symbolic inputs and find that the purely non‐symbolic model employs more processing‐intensive strategies to determine set size.
Fronto‐parietal activity changes associated with changes in working memory load: Evidence from simultaneous electroencephalography and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy analysis
Authors: Wang Yu , Feng Yihang , Pan Qi , Qu Qiumin , Wen Bin , Pang Fangning , Xu Jin 
Published: September 2024

AbstractWorking memory (WM) involves the capacity to maintain and manipulate information over short periods. Previous research has suggested that fronto‐parietal activities play a crucial role in WM. However, there remains no agreement on the effect of working memory load (WML) on neural activities and haemodynamic responses. Here, our study seeks to examine the effect of WML through simultaneous electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). In this study, a delay change detection task was conducted on 23 healthy volunteers. The task included three levels: one item, three items and five items. The EEG and fNIRS were simultaneously recorded during the task. Neural activities and haemodynamic responses at prefrontal and parietal regions were analysed using time‐frequency analysis and weighted phase‐lag index (wPLI). We observed a significant enhancement in prefrontal and parietal β suppression as WML increased. Furthermore, as WML increased, there was a notable enhancement in fronto‐parietal connectivity (FPC), as evidenced by both EEG and fNIRS. Correlation analysis indicated that as WML increased, there was a potential for enhancement of neurovascular coupling (NVC) of FPC.