bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Policy shaping based on the learned preferences of others accounts for risky decision-making under social observation
Authors: Seon HeeYoung , Chung Dongil 
Published: September 2024

AbstractObserving others’ choices influences individuals’ decisions, often leading them to follow others. However, it is repeatedly reported that being observed by others tends to make people act more riskily. We hypothesized that this discrepancy arises from individuals’ belief that others prefer riskier choices than they do. To examine this hypothesis, we used a gambling task where on some trials, individuals were informed that their choices would be observed by a risk- averse or seeking partner. Most important, individuals were given chances to learn each partner’s preference beforehand. As expected, individuals initially believed that partners would make relatively riskier choices than they would. Against two alternative explanations, we found that individuals simulated partners’ choices and weighed these simulated choices in making their own choices. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we showed that decision probabilities adjusted with the simulated partners’ choices were represented in the temporoparietal junction (TPJ). Moreover, individual differences in the functional connectivity between the TPJ and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) were explained by the interaction between model-estimated social reliance and sensitivity to social cues in the mPFC. These findings provide a neuromechanistic account of how being observed by others affects individuals’ decision-making, highlighting the roles of the mPFC and TPJ in simulating social contexts based on individuals’ beliefs.
A flexible high-precision photoacoustic retinal prosthesis
Authors: Leong Audrey , Li Yueming , Ruikes Thijs R. , Voillot Julien , Yuan Yuhao , Chen Guo , Facon Arnaud , Chhuon Chakrya-Anna , Joffrois Corentin , Tessier Gilles , Cornebois Marion , Dégardin Julie , Louise Jean-Damien , Cheng Ji-Xin , Yang Chen , Moulet Hélène , Picaud Serge 
Published: September 2024

AbstractRetinal degenerative diseases of photoreceptors are a leading cause of blindness with no effective treatment. Retinal prostheses aim to restore sight by stimulating remaining retinal cells. Here, we present a photoacoustic retinal stimulation technology. We designed a polydimethylsiloxane and carbon-based flexible film that converts near-infrared laser pulses into a localized acoustic field with 56-µm lateral resolution, aiming at high-precision acoustic stimulation of mechanosensitive retinal cells. This photoacoustic stimulation resulted in robust and localized modulation of retinal ganglion cell activity in both wild-type and degeneratedex vivoretinae. When a millimeter-sized photoacoustic film was implanted in the rat subretinal space, pulsed laser stimulation generated neural modulationin vivoalong the visual pathway to the superior colliculus, as measured by functional ultrasound imaging. The biosafety of the film was confirmed by the absence of short-term adverse effects under optical coherence tomography retinal imaging, while local thermal increases were measured below 1 °C. These findings demonstrate the potential of photoacoustic stimulation for high-acuity visual restoration over a large field of view in blind patients.
Feasibility of mixed-reality telecollaboration to enhance pre-medical student shadowing education
Authors: Nasir Aleeza , Nasir Rida , Puca Daisy , Charles Kevin , LoGalbo Sandhya , Schwartz Jayme , Kaur Ishveer , Tsige Temesgen , Huynh Tran Tu , Iyeke Lisa , Jordan Lindsay , Richman Mark 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIntroductionMedical school admissions are highly competitive, leading to high attrition rates, particularly among underserved minority (URM) students. Mentorship and clinical exposure are critical for the success of URM students, but limited access to these experiences can be due to factors such as time constraints and transportation barriers. Augmented reality (AR) has the potential to revolutionize medical education for pre-medical students by providing engaging and accessible clinical shadowing opportunities. This study aims to investigate the feasibility and impact of integrating OpticSurg’s Vision Beyond® AR platform into the educational experience of students shadowing the Emergency Department (ED). The study will focus on students’ experience using the Vision Beyond® platform and the potential strengths and weaknesses associated with the overall use of the device.MethodsThe study included Hofstra pre-medical undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students of good academic standing and character all cleared to shadow in the Long Island Jewish Medical Center Emergency Department (ED), aged 18 or older. This pilot study explored the use of Vision Beyond® AR glasses, for remote pre-medical education. Students who were not present in the ED accessed medical teaching materials using de-identified resources available on the internet, such as CT scans, EKGs, lab results, physical examination findings, ultrasounds, and X-rays. No patients were involved in the study. The educator used the Vision Beyond® goggles to start a session and invited the students to participate through the Vision Beyond® website. Students utilized the interactive feature to indicate areas where they desired greater detail or explanation. After each session, students completed a survey to assess their experience, including demographics, system usability, ease of use for specific topics, overall impression, and the strengths and weaknesses of the platform.ResultFifteen pre-medical and post-baccalaureate students participated in the study. Students rated the device on a 1-to-5 scale (1 = Strongly disagree, 5 = Strongly agree) for ease of use and learnability. On average, the ratings for these categories were 4 or above. The incidence of motion sickness and nausea received an average rating of 1.8 out of 5.ConclusionThe pilot program using OpticSurg’s Vision Beyond® platform showed promise, with students reporting a positive experience and finding the device easy to use. However, challenges such as internet connectivity issues and limitations of the AR goggles were noted. Future research should explore how this technology can enhance diversity in the medical field.
Neutralization and Stability of JN.1-derived LB.1, KP.2.3, KP.3 and KP.3.1.1 Subvariants
Authors: Li Pei , Faraone Julia N. , Hsu Cheng Chih , Chamblee Michelle , Liu Yajie , Zheng Yi-Min , Xu Yan , Carlin Claire , Horowitz Jeffrey C. , Mallampalli Rama K. , Saif Linda J. , Oltz Eugene M. , Jones Daniel , Li Jianrong , Gumina Richard J. , Bednash Joseph S. , Xu Kai , Liu Shan-Lu 
Published: September 2024

SUMMARYDuring the summer of 2024, COVID-19 cases surged globally, driven by variants derived from JN.1 subvariants of SARS-CoV-2 that feature new mutations, particularly in the N-terminal domain (NTD) of the spike protein. In this study, we report on the neutralizing antibody (nAb) escape, infectivity, fusion, and stability of these subvariants—LB.1, KP.2.3, KP.3, and KP.3.1.1. Our findings demonstrate that all of these subvariants are highly evasive of nAbs elicited by the bivalent mRNA vaccine, the XBB.1.5 monovalent mumps virus-based vaccine, or from infections during the BA.2.86/JN.1 wave. This reduction in nAb titers is primarily driven by a single serine deletion (DelS31) in the NTD of the spike, leading to a distinct antigenic profile compared to the parental JN.1 and other variants. We also found that the DelS31 mutation decreases pseudovirus infectivity in CaLu-3 cells, which correlates with impaired cell-cell fusion. Additionally, the spike protein of DelS31 variants appears more conformationally stable, as indicated by reduced S1 shedding both with and without stimulation by soluble ACE2, and increased resistance to elevated temperatures. Molecular modeling suggests that the DelS31 mutation induces a conformational change that stabilizes the NTD and strengthens the NTD-Receptor-Binding Domain (RBD) interaction, thus favoring the down conformation of RBD and reducing accessibility to both the ACE2 receptor and certain nAbs. Additionally, the DelS31 mutation introduces an N-linked glycan modification at N30, which shields the underlying NTD region from antibody recognition. Our data highlight the critical role of NTD mutations in the spike protein for nAb evasion, stability, and viral infectivity, and suggest consideration of updating COVID-19 vaccines with antigens containing DelS31.
A DNA barcode library forCulexmosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) of South America with the description of two cryptic species of subgenusMelanoconion
Authors: Talaga Stanislas , Guidez Amandine , Thoisy Benoît de , Lavergne Anne , Carinci Romuald , Gaborit Pascal , Issaly Jean , Dusfour Isabelle , Duchemin Jean-Bernard 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe genusCulexis one of the most diverse in the world and includes numerous known vector species of parasites and viruses to humans. Morphological identification ofCulexspecies is notoriously difficult and rely mostly on the examination of properly dissected male genitalia which largely prevents female and immature identification during entomological, ecological or arboviral surveys. The aims of this study were (i) to establish a DNA barcode library forCulexmosquitoes of French Guiana based on the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) marker, (ii) to compare three approaches of molecular delimitation of species to morphological identification, and (iii) to test the effectiveness of the COI marker at a broader geographical scale across South America. Mosquitoes used in this study were sampled in French Guiana between 2013 and 2023. We provide 246 COI sequences for 90 morphologically identified species ofCulex, including five new country records and two newly described species. Overall, congruence between morphological identification and molecular delimitations using the COI barcode were high. The Barcode of Life Data clustering approach into Barcode Index Numbers gives the best result in terms of species delimitation, followed by the muti-rate Poisson Tree Processes and the Assemble Species by Automatic Partitioning methods. Inconsistencies between morphological identification and molecular delimitation can be explained by introgression, incomplete lineage sorting, imperfect taxonomy or the effect of the geographical scale of sampling. This increases by almost two-fold the number of mosquito species for which a DNA barcode is available in French Guiana, including 75% of the species ofCulexcurrently known in the territory. Finally, this study confirms the usefulness of the COI barcode in identifyingCulexmosquitoes of South America, but also points the limits of this marker for some groups of species within the subgeneraCulexandMelanoconion.
Plant-Pollinator Interactions along the Altitudinal Gradient inBerberis lyciumRoyle: An Endangered Medicinal Plant Species of the Himalayan Region
Authors: Anjum Nahila , Khan Sajid , Verma Susheel , Gaira Kailash S. , Rawat Balwant , Hanief Mohd , Chettri Nakul 
Published: September 2024

AbstractMountain ecosystems influence species distribution by offering climatic variables intertwined with rising altitude. These climatic factors determine species phenology and niche width. Although the distributional patterns of some prominent insect groups in relation to altitude have been determined, the environmental preferences along the altitudinal range that differentially influence the pollination of specific plant species are unknown. Here we assess how the composition and abundance of pollinator fauna of the important medicinal plantBerberis lyciumRoyle (Berberidaceae) differ across five distinct altitudinal gradients (800-2200 m) in the Pir-Panjal mountain range in the northwestern part of the Indian Himalayas. We monitored insect pollinators of major groups (bees, butterflies, wasps, flies) over two consecutive flowering seasons during 2022-2023. In total, 39 insect species belonging to five orders and 17 families were observed visiting the plant species during the flowering period across the altitudinal gradient. The results of the linear regression model depict that all four pollination indices show a negative correlation with increasing altitude in foraging activities when all the data are pooled together. However, only foraging speed (FS) and index of visiting rate (IVR) were statistically significant. In the case of individual orders, only Lepidoptera exhibited a notable relation to altitude. However, asynchrony in foraging activities among other pollinator groups has been reported along altitudinal gradients. The reproductive output (fruit and seed production) shows a significant negative correlation with increasing altitude. We concluded that while altitude influences species distribution, it also differentially shapes plant-pollinator interactions, pollinator activities, and reproductive output. This work is of great significance in order to monitor plant-pollinator interactions, which are essential component of biodiversity rich but fragile mountain ecosystem.
Are specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic, and time-bound (SMART) goals associated with improved walking outcomes for stroke survivors undergoing outpatient stroke rehabilitation? An observational cross-sectional retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mohammadi-Ghayeghchi Helia , Bhagat Nidhi , Campbell Mackenzie , Mayhew Madi , Dufresne Rheall , Ewald Levi , Devasahayam Augustine J. , Mansfield Avril 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundGoal-setting is a core principle used in clinical practice to guide treatment. Setting goals improves adherence to rehabilitation treatments and may lead to better outcomes in people with neurological disorders. However, there is a lack of research into the prevalence of goals using a Specific, Measurable, Action-Oriented, Realistic, and Time-Bound (SMART) framework. Additionally, it is currently unclear if the SMART framework improves ambulatory outcomes in outpatient stroke rehabilitation.MethodsThis observational, cross-sectional, retrospective cohort study reviewed charts of all patients admitted to outpatient stroke rehabilitation at three hospitals over a 1-year period. Patients were included in the analysis if they had documented ambulatory goals. Goals were classified as either SMART or non-SMART. Analysis of covariance was used to compare Functional Ambulation Category scores at discharge between the SMART and non-SMART groups, controlling for admission scores, length of stay, and time post-stroke.Results300 patients were included in the analysis. Of these, 61 (20.3%) had at least one SMART ambulatory goal. Analysis of covariance revealed a statistically significantly greater Functional Ambulation Category scores at discharge for the SMART goal group compared to the non-SMART group (mean Functional Ambulation Category scores at discharge [95% confidence interval], SMART group: 4.2 [4.0, 4.5], non-SMART group: 3.8 [3.6, 4.1]; F1,60= 4.40, p = 0.043).ConclusionThe use of SMART goals in outpatient stroke rehabilitation is associated with better ambulatory outcomes compared to non-SMART goals. These findings suggest that incorporating the SMART framework in clinical practice can enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions for stroke patients. Further studies are recommended to explore the long-term effects and broader applications of SMART goal-setting.
Integrating Heart Rate Variability and Psychometric Assessments to Evaluate Stress and Burnout in ICU Nursing Staff: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rubio-López Alberto , Sierra-Puerta Teresa , Navas Alejandro Rubio 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundIntensive Care Units (ICUs) are recognized as highly demanding environments that significantly contribute to stress and burnout among nursing staff. Despite increasing concern over burnout in healthcare, the relationship between physiological stress indicators, such as heart rate variability (HRV), and psychometric assessments has not been thoroughly explored in this setting.ObjectiveThis pilot study aimed to evaluate the relationship between HRV metrics and psychometric assessments of stress and anxiety in ICU nursing staff. Additionally, it explored the influence of shift type, shift duration, demographic factors, and lifestyle habits on these stress indicators.MethodsAn observational cross-sectional pilot study was conducted with 24 ICU healthcare professionals at a University Hospital in Madrid, Spain. HRV data were collected under controlled conditions, with measurements taken at the beginning and end of shifts. Psychometric assessments were conducted using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14), Nursing Stress Scale (NSS), and a Visual Analogue Scale for Stress (VASS). Non-parametric statistical tests were used to analyze correlations between HRV metrics, psychometric scores, and demographic/lifestyle variables.ResultsSignificant negative correlations were observed between HRV metrics and perceived stress levels, particularly between the LF/HF ratio and stress measures. Night and extended shifts were associated with elevated stress, as indicated by lower HRV and higher psychometric stress scores. These findings suggest that shift type and duration significantly influence stress levels in ICU nursing staff.ConclusionThis pilot study highlights the potential of HRV as an objective measure of stress in ICU nursing staff, with significant correlations observed between HRV metrics and psychometric assessments. The findings suggest that HRV could be a valuable tool for monitoring stress in real-time and identifying individuals at risk of burnout. However, further research with larger samples and a longitudinal approach is needed to validate these results and explore their implications for occupational health practices in ICU settings.
Digital risk score sensitively identifies presence of α-synuclein aggregation or dopaminergic deficit
Authors: Schalkamp Ann-Kathrin , Peall Kathryn J , Harrison Neil A , Escott-Price Valentina , Barnaghi Payam , Sandor Cynthia 
Published: September 2024

AbstractBackgroundUse of digital sensors to passively collect long-term offers a step change in our ability to screen for early signs of disease in the general population. Smartwatch data has been shown to identify Parkinson’s disease (PD) several years before the clinical diagnosis, however, has not been evaluated in comparison to biological and pathological markers such as dopaminergic imaging (DaTscan) or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) alpha-synuclein seed amplification assay (SAA) in an at-risk cohort.MethodsTo address this, we performed a cohort study using longitudinal clinical assessment data from the Parkinson’s Progression Marker Initiative (PPMI) cohort collected between 2010 and 2020 with additional long-term (mean: 485 days) at-home digital monitoring data (collected 2018-2020) from the Verily Study Watch. We derived a digital risk score and evaluated it in an at-risk cohort (N = 109) consisting of people with genetic markers (LRRK2, GBA) or prodromal symptoms (hyposmia, polysomnography-proven Rapid-Eye-Movement behavioral sleep disorder) without a diagnosis of PD for whom all modalities were available (digital, DaTscan, SAA). The digital risk score was compared to the Movement Disorder Society (MDS) research criteria for prodromal PD, alpha-synuclein SAA and DaTscan.FindingsIn the at-risk cohort (N=109, mean age = 64.62±6.86, 37% male), the digital risk correlated with the MDS research criteria for prodromal PD (r = 0.36, p-value = 1.46x10-4) and was increased in individuals with subthreshold Parkinsonism (UPDRS III > 6) (p-value = 4.99x10-6) and hyposmia (p-value = 3.77x10-2). Notably, the digital risk was correlated with DaTscan putamen binding ratio (r = -0.32, p-value = 6.64x10-4) and CSF SAA (r = 0.2, p-value = 3.9x10-2). The digital risk achieved higher sensitivity in identifying people with SAA positivity (0.71 vs 0.43) or DaTscan positivity (0.43 vs 0.14) than the MDS prodromal score but performed on-par or worse than hyposmia (SAA+: 0.71 vs 0.71, DaT+: 0.48 vs 0.57).InterpretationA digital risk score from smartwatch data could be used as a sensitive screening tool for early detection of PD followed by more specific tests.
Nonlinear dendritic integration supports Up-Down states in single neurons
Authors: Quaresima Alessio , Duarte Renato , Fitz Hartmut , Hagoort Peter , Petersson Karl Magnus 
Published: September 2024

AbstractChanges in the activity profile of cortical neurons are due to phenomena at the scale of local and long-range networks. Accordingly, the states of cortical neurons and their, often abrupt, transitions – a phenomenon known as Up/Down states – are attributed to variations in the afferent neurons’ activity. However, cellular physiology and morphology may also play a role. This study examines the impact of dendritic nonlinearities, in the form of voltage-gated NMDA receptors, on the response of cortical neurons to balanced excitatory/inhibitory synaptic inputs. Using a neuron model with two segregated dendritic compartments, we compare cells with and without dendritic nonlinearities. Our analysis shows that NMDA receptors boost somatic firing in the balanced condition and increase the correlation of membrane potentials across the three compartments of the neuron model. Then we introduce controlled fluctuations in excitatory inputs and quantify the ensuing bimodality of the somatic membrane potential. We show that dendritic nonlinearities are crucial for detecting these fluctuations and initiating Up-Down states whose shape and statistics closely resemble electrophysiological data. Our results provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying cortical bistability and highlight the complex interplay between dendritic integration and network dynamics in shaping neuronal behavior.Significance statementIn several physiological states, such as sleep or quiet wakefulness, the membrane of cortical cells shows a stereotypical bistability. The cell is either fully depolarized and ready to spike or in a silent, hyperpolarized state. This dynamics, known as Up-Down states, has often been attributed to changes in the network activity. However, whether cell-specific properties, such as dendritic nonlinearity, have a role in driving the neuron’s bistability remains unclear. This study examines the issue using a model of a pyramidal cell and reveals that the presence of dendritic NMDA receptors, drives the up-down states in response to small fluctuations in the network activity.
Cryo-EM structure and polar assembly of the PS2 S-layer ofCorynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Sogues Adrià , Sleutel Mike , Petit Julienne , Megrian Daniela , Bayan Nicolas , Wehenkel Anne Marie , Remaut Han 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe polar-growing Corynebacteriales have a complex cell envelope architecture characterized by the presence of a specialized outer membrane composed of mycolic acids. In some Corynebacteriales, this mycomembrane is further supported by a proteinaceous surface layer or ‘S-layer’, whose function, structure and mode of assembly remain largely enigmatic. Here, we isolatedex vivoPS2 S-layers from the industrially importantCorynebacterium glutamicumand determined its atomic structure by 3D cryoEM reconstruction. PS2 monomers consist of a six-helix bundle ‘core’, a three-helix bundle ‘arm’, and a C-terminal transmembrane (TM) helix. The PS2 core oligomerizes into hexameric units anchored in the mycomembrane by a channel-like coiled-coil of the TM helices. The PS2 arms mediate trimeric lattice contacts, crystallizing the hexameric units into an intricate semipermeable lattice. Using pulse-chase live cell imaging, we show that the PS2 lattice is incorporated at the poles, coincident with the actinobacterial elongasome. Finally, phylogenetic analysis shows a paraphyletic distribution and dispersed chromosomal location of PS2 in Corynebacteriales as a result of multiple recombination events and losses. These findings expand our understanding of S-layer biology and enable applications of membrane-supported self-assembling bioengineered materials.