bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Broadband high frequency Activity initializes Distractor Suppression
Authors: Schmid Paul , Reichert Christoph , Bartsch Mandy V. , Dürschmid Stefan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSelective attention requires fast and accurate distractor suppression. We investigated if broadband high-frequency activity (BHA; 80 – 150 Hz), indicative of local neuronal population dynamics in early sensory cortices, indexes rapid processing of distracting information. In the first experiment we tested whether BHA distinguishes targets from distracting information in a visual search paradigm using tilted gratings as targets and distractors. In the second experiment, we examined whether BHA distractor processing can be trained by statistical learning. In both experiments, BHA preceded the low-frequency target enhancement (NT) and distractor suppression (PD; 1-40 Hz) components and distinguished between targets and distractors. Only the BHA but not low-frequency component amplitude correlated with participants’ performance and was higher for lateral distractors versus lateral targets. Furthermore, BHA predicted the strength of the PD. These results indicate that BHA initiates stimulus discrimination via distractor suppression.Significance StatementSelective attention is the net result of successful target selection and distractor suppression, representing a key mechanism of human’s everyday life. Here, we shed light on the neural mechanisms of distractor processing by showing that the early occipital broadband high-frequency activity (BHA) is linked to successful distractor suppression. Specifically, the BHA predicted individual performance and PDstrength, a component associated with distractor suppression. We found the BHA and later the PDincreased in amplitude during implicit statistical learning indicative of a trainable distractor suppression mechanism. We demonstrate that the BHA serves as an early marker for a successful initiation of distractor suppression.
Restoring mechanophenotype reverts malignant properties of ECM-enriched vocal fold cancer
Authors: Kaivola Jasmin , Punovuori Karolina , Chastney Megan R. , Miroshnikova Yekaterina A. , Abdo Hind , Bertillot Fabien , Krautgasser Fabian , Franco Jasmin Di , Conway James R.W. , Follain Gautier , Hagström Jaana , Mäkitie Antti , Irjala Heikki , Ventelä Sami , Hamidi Hellyeh , Scita Giorgio , Cerbino Roberto , Wickström Sara A. , Ivaska Johanna 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIncreased extracellular matrix (ECM) and matrix stiffness promote solid tumor progression. However, mechanotransduction in cancers arising in mechanically active tissues remains underexplored. Here, we report upregulation of multiple ECM components accompanied by tissue stiffening in vocal fold cancer (VFC). We compare non-cancerous (NC) and patient- derived VFC cells – from early (mobile, T1) to advanced-stage (immobile, T3) cancers – revealing an association between VFC progression and cell-surface receptor heterogeneity, reduced laminin-binding integrin cell-cell junction localization and a flocking mode of collective cell motility. Mimicking physiological movement of healthy vocal fold tissue (stretching/vibration), decreases oncogenic nuclear β-catenin and YAP levels in VFC. Multiplex immunohistochemistry of VFC tumors uncovered a correlation between ECM content, nuclear YAP and patient survival, concordant with VFC sensitivity to YAP-TEAD inhibitors in vitro. Our findings present evidence that VFC is a mechanically sensitive malignancy and restoration of tumor mechanophenotype or YAP/TAZ targeting, represents a tractable anti-oncogenic therapeutic avenue for VFC.
Genomics-driven monitoring ofFraxinus latifolia(Oregon Ash) for conservation and EAB-resistance breeding
Authors: Melton Anthony E. , Faske Trevor M. , Sniezko Richard A. , Thibault Tim , Williams Wyatt , Parchman Thomas , Hamilton Jill A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractUnderstanding the evolutionary processes underlying range-wide genomic variation is critical to designing effective conservation and restoration strategies. Evaluating the influence of connectivity, demographic change, and environmental adaptation for threatened species can be invaluable to proactive conservation of evolutionary potential. In this study, we assessed genomic variation across the range ofFraxinus latifolia, a foundational riparian tree native to western North America recently exposed to the invasive emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis; EAB). Over 1,000 individuals from 61 populations were sequenced using reduced representation (ddRAD-seq) across the species’ range. Strong population structure was evident along a latitudinal gradient, with population connectivity largely maintained along central valley river systems, and a center of diversity coinciding with major river systems central to the species’ range. Despite evidence of connectivity, estimates of nucleotide diversity and effective population size were low across all populations, suggesting the patchy distribution ofF. latifoliapopulations may impact its long-term evolutionary potential. Range-wide estimates of genomic offset, which indicate genomic change required to adjust to future climate projections, were greatest in the eastern and lowest in the southern portions of the species’ range, suggesting the regional distribution of genomic variation may impact evolutionary potential longer-term. To preserve evolutionary capacity across populations needed for development of climate-resilient, EAB-resistant breeding programs, prioritizing conservation of range-wide genomic diversity will provide a foundation for species management long-term.
Removal of the catalytic subunit of DNA-protein kinase in the proximal tubules promotes DNA and tubular damage during kidney injury
Authors: Swanson M. , Yun J. , Collier D.M. , Challagundla L. , Dogan M. , Kuscu C. , Garrett M.R. , Regner K.R. , Chung J. H. , Park F 
Published: August 2024

AbstractTubular epithelial cell damage can be repaired through a series of complex signaling pathways. An early event in many forms of tubular damage is the observation of DNA damage, which can be repaired by specific pathways depending upon the type of genomic alteration.. In this study, we report that the catalytic subunit of DNA protein kinase (DNA-PKcs), a central DNA repair enzyme involved in sensing DNA damage and performing double stranded DNA break repair, plays an important role in the extent of tubular epithelial cell damage following exposure to injurious acute and chronic stimuli. Selective loss of DNA-PKcs in the proximal tubules led to increased markers of kidney dysfunction, DNA damage, and tubular epithelial cell injury in multiple models of acute kidney injury, specifically bilateral renal ischemia-reperfusion injury and single dose of cisplatin (15 mg/kg IP). In contrast, in a mouse model of kidney fibrosis and chronic kidney disease (UUO),the protective effects of DNA-PKcs was not as obvious histologically from the tissue sections. In the absence of proximal tubular DNA-PKcs, there was reduced levels of fibrotic markers, α-SMA and fibronectin, which suggests that there may be a biphasic role of DNA-PKcs depending upon the conditions exerted upon the kidney. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the catalytic subunit of DNA-PKcs plays a context-dependent role in the kidney to reduce DNA damage during exposure to various types of acute, but not chronic forms of injurious stimuli.
Terminal tracheal cells ofDrosophilaare immune privileged to maintain their Foxo-dependent structural plasticity
Authors: Bossen Judith , Raveendran Reshmi , He Jingjing , Roeder Thomas 
Published: August 2024

AbstractRespiratory organs fulfill several tasks, of which gas exchange is the most important. This function is also true for theDrosophilarespiratory organ, the tracheal system, in which the tracheal terminal cells (TTCs), the functional equivalents of the mammalian lung’s alveoli, are the structures where gas exchange occurs. To cope with the plethora of inhaled bacteria, fungi, and viruses, the trachea, like all airway organs, developed a sophisticated innate immune system to protect its large surface area. Bacterial infection of the Drosophila larval tracheal system induced a robust immune response throughout the entire airway epithelium, except for the TTCs that lacked this response. TTCs do not express the membrane-associated peptidoglycan recognition receptor PGRP-LC, which we assume protects these susceptible cells from Immune deficiency (Imd) pathway activation and JNK- mediated cell death. Thus, TTCs can be considered an immune-privileged cell type compared to the rest of the tracheal tissue. Targeted overexpression of PGRP-LCx in these cells led to a significant reduction in branching, cell damage, and ultimately cell death, which depletion of AP-1 or foxo could rescue. We hypothesize that the structural plasticity of TTCs in response to nutritional cues and hypoxia is incompatible with a potent immune function. Both reactions, the structural plasticity, and the immune response, require the transcription factor foxo, and we showed that it is essential for structural plasticity. Thus, the immune-privileged status of TTCs is (presumably) a mechanism that ensures normal TTC function.
Photo-induced changes in tissue stiffness alter epithelial budding morphogenesis in the embryonic lung
Authors: Peak Kara E. , Rajaguru Poornacharanya , Khan Adil , Gleghorn Jason P. , Obaid Girgis , Ferruzzi Jacopo , Varner Victor D. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractExtracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness has been shown to influence the differentiation of progenitor cells in culture, but a lack of tools to perturb the mechanical properties within intact embryonic organs has made it difficult to determine how changes in tissue stiffness influence organ patterning and morphogenesis. Photocrosslinking of the ECM has been successfully used to stiffen soft tissues, such as the cornea and skin, which are optically accessible, but this technique has not yet been applied to developing embryos. Here, we use photocrosslinking with Rose Bengal (RB) to locally and ectopically stiffen the pulmonary mesenchyme of explanted embryonic lungs culturedex vivo. This change in mechanical properties was sufficient to suppress FGF-10-mediated budding morphogenesis along the embryonic airway, without negatively impacting patterns of cell proliferation or apoptosis. A computational model of airway branching was used to determine that FGF-10-induced buds form via a growth-induced buckling mechanism and that increased mesenchymal stiffness is sufficient to inhibit epithelial buckling. Taken together, our data demonstrate that photocrosslinking can be used to create regional differences in mechanical properties within intact embryonic organs and that these differences influence epithelial morphogenesis and patterning. Further, this photocrosslinking assay can be readily adapted to other developing tissues and model systems.
Enzymatic reactions dictated by the 2D membrane environment
Authors: Bai Ru-Hsuan , Lin Chun-Wei 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe cell membrane is a fundamental component of cellular architecture. Beyond serving as a physical barrier that encloses the cytosol, it also provides a crucial platform for numerous biochemical reactions. Due to the unique two-dimensional and fluidic environment of the membrane, reactions that occur on its surface are subject to specific physical constraints. However, the advantages and disadvantages of membrane-mediated reactions have yet to be thoroughly explored. In this study, we reconstitute a classic proteolytic cleavage reaction at the membrane interface, designed for the real-time, single-molecule kinetic analysis. The interactions between the enzyme and substrate near the membrane are examined under different classic scenarios. Our findings reveal that while the membrane environment significantly enhances enzymatic activity, it also imposes diffusion limitations that reduce this activity over time. By adjusting the enzyme’s membrane affinity to an intermediate level, we enable the enzyme to "hop" on the membrane surface, overcoming these diffusion constraints and sustaining high enzymatic activity with faster kinetics. These results provide critical insights into the role of the cell membrane in regulating biochemical reactions and can be broadly applied to other membrane-associated interactions.
The dynamics of Staphylococcal infection and their treatment with antibiotics and bacteriophage in theGalleria mellonellamodel system
Authors: Berryhill Brandon A. , Gil-Gil Teresa , Witzany Christopher , Goldberg David A. , Vega Nic M. , Regoes Roland R. , Levin Bruce R. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCritical to our understanding of infections and their treatment is the role the innate immune system plays in controlling bacterial pathogens. Nevertheless, many in vivo systems are made or modified such that they do not have an innate immune response. Use of these systems denies the opportunity to examine the synergy between the immune system and antimicrobial agents. In this study we demonstrate that the larva ofGalleria mellonellais an effective in vivo model for the study of the population and evolutionary biology of bacterial infections and their treatment. To do this we test three hypotheses concerning the role of the innate immune system during infection. We show: i) sufficiently high densities of bacteria are capable of saturating the innate immune system, ii) bacteriostatic drugs and bacteriophages are as effective as bactericidal antibiotics in preventing mortality and controlling bacterial densities, and iii) minority populations of bacteria resistant to a treating antibiotic will not ascend. Using a highly virulent strain ofStaphylococcus aureusand a mathematical computer-simulation model, we further explore how the dynamics of the infection within the short term determine the ultimate infection outcome. We find that excess immune activation in response to high densities of bacteria leads to a strong but short-lived immune response which ultimately results in a high degree of mortality. Overall, our findings illustrate the utility of theG. mellonellamodel system in conjunction with established in vivo models in studying infectious disease progression and treatment.
Treatment with Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) elicits secondary metabolite accumulation inAquilaria crassna(Agarwood) callus culture
Authors: Overmans Sebastian , Alflayyeh Yazan , Gutiérrez Sergio , Aldlaigan Yousef , Lauersen Kyle J. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThymelaceaous trees are prized for accumulating fragrant resins composed of hundreds of secondary metabolites in their woody tissues. Slow growth and increasing consumer demand have stretched natural sources of agarwood trees to being endangered and alternative production modes, including silviculture and tissue culture, are currently being investigated. Dedifferentiated tissue culture of agarwood trees provides a means of cell propagation independent of environmental context. However, secondary metabolite accumulation, as found in fragrant resins, occurs largely in response to wounding. Here, we investigated the application of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as potential elicitors of secondary metabolite formation inAquilaria crassnatissue culture samples. Callus cultures were exposed to five commercially available MOFs: UiO-67, MOF-808, HKUST-1, ZIF-67, and MOF-74, and ethanol extracts were used to quantify secondary metabolite accumulation compared to untreated cultures. Samples that were exposed to Zr-based MOFs exhibited similar metabolite production profiles, (trans-2-Carboxy-cyclo-hexyl)-acetic acid was reduced in the presence of all MOFs, the Cu-containing HKUST-1 MOF increased palmitic acid levels, and MOF-808 and ZIF-67 were found to elicit the highest accumulation of secondary metabolites with potential fragrance applications. These results demonstrate the possibility of eliciting secondary metabolites from dedifferentiated agarwood tree cell culture and may provide an alternative means of sourcing fragrant specialty chemicals from these plants.
Fully heavy tetraquark resonant states with different flavors
Authors: Wu Wei-Lin , Ma Yao , Chen Yan-Ke , Meng Lu , Zhu Shi-Lin 
Published: August 2024

We use the quark potential model to calculate the mass spectrum of the S-wave fully heavy tetraquark systems with different flavors, including the bcb¯c¯,bbc¯c¯,ccc¯b¯, and bbb¯c¯ systems. We employ the Gaussian expansion method to solve the four-body Schrödinger equation, and the complex scaling method to identify resonant states. The bcb¯c¯,bbc¯c¯,ccc¯b¯, and bbb¯c¯ resonant states are obtained in the mass regions of (13.2, 13.5), (13.3, 13.6), (10.0, 10.3), (16.5, 16.7) GeV, respectively. Among these states, the bcb¯c¯ tetraquark states are the most promising ones to be discovered in the near future. We recommend the experimental exploration of the 1++ and 2++ bcb¯c¯ states with masses near 13.3 GeV in the J/ψϒ channel. From the root-mean-square radii, we find that all the resonant states we have identified are compact tetraquark states.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
AI in action: transforming learning environments in tech organizations
Authors: Bisht Spardha , Sengupta Santoshi , Kumar Manish 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this viewpoint is to present the insights of how AI is transforming the learning environment and strengthening the potential of learning and development in large tech organizations.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper leverages the expert opinions of 4 L&D professionals, whose specialized knowledge and direct involvement in the deployment of AI technologies provide a rich, informed perspective on the evolution of learning environments.

Findings
Four key trends in AI-integration in learning environments can be seen - AI-powered personalization in learning environment; enhancing interactivity with AI; fostering collaboration and social learning; and assessment and feedback in AI-powered environments.

Originality/value
The discussion around key trends offers a strategic framework for other tech organizations to consider when deploying AI in their learning environments. This can serve as a guideline for enhancing learner engagement, personalization, and overall effectiveness of learning programs.
Corporate carbon emissions, science-based targets initiatives and firm performance: evidence from India
Authors: Bharali Saikia Meghna , Maji Santi Gopal 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the influence of corporate carbon emissions on the financial performance of select Indian companies. It further studies the moderating role of science-based target initiatives (SBTi) in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach
The study is based on 57 Indian SBTi companies and 74 Bombay Stock Exchange-listed non-SBTi companies for the period of four years from 2019–2020 to 2022–2023. The panel data regression models are used to study this association. Furthermore, two-stage least square and generalized method of moments models are used to test the robustness of the results.

Findings
There is a negative relationship between corporate carbon emissions and financial performance. The findings support the “win-win” hypothesis and confirm that reducing carbon emissions can improve the financial performance of Indian firms. Furthermore, the SBTi moderate the carbon emission and firm performance nexus.

Practical implications
The findings of the study would provide insights to the policymakers, regulators and managers to mainstream climate change in their core business activities driving sustainability and profitable outcomes.

Originality/value
This study is a noble attempt to study the moderating role of science-based targets in the carbon emissions and firm performance nexus in an emerging market setting. Earlier studies have been conducted in a cross-country context.
How the law can ensure the success of value-added tax
Authors: Almarri Ali Salem 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this research is to demonstrate how legal strategies can be used to enhance the effectiveness of value-added tax (VAT) and how taxation laws can synergise with economic goals to strengthen the economy.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a comprehensive approach to explore various aspects of VAT, including its mechanics, collection process and global trends. It uses a comparative analysis of different types of taxes and their potential impact on economic growth. Additionally, it examines the role of the law in establishing tax systems, and how the law makes VAT more effective.

Findings
The research highlights the importance of legal frameworks in implementing VAT strategies and addressing associated challenges. It also identifies the advantages and disadvantages of VAT and discusses its role in diversifying economic income sources to ensure a sustainable national revenue stream.

Originality/value
This research contributes to the literature by offering insights into the interplay between law, taxation and economic development, particularly focusing on the effectiveness of VAT. It provides original perspectives on legal strategies to optimise VAT systems and enhance economic growth.
Exploring the congruence between sustainable manufacturing capabilities and Hayes and Wheelwright's four stages of strategic manufacturing effectiveness
Authors: Pande Bhavya , Adil Gajendra Kumar 
Published: August 2024

PurposeAs sustainability becomes more important in manufacturing, researchers recommend using the four-stage Hayes and Wheelwright (H-W) model of strategic manufacturing effectiveness (SME) to integrate sustainable manufacturing practices (SMPs) at a strategic level. However, there is limited research on this topic. This paper investigates SMPs encompassing four sustainable manufacturing capabilities (SMCs): pollution control, pollution prevention, product stewardship, and clean technology. It relates these SMCs to the four SME stages of the H-W model, both of which form a continuum of stages.Design/methodology/approachA theoretical model on the congruence between SMCs and SME stages is first established using organizational theories to identify the dominant combinations. This model is then tested by examining 178 SMPs of four large manufacturing firms.FindingsThe study reveals that the SMPs of the case firms clearly show SMC and SME stage characteristics. Few deviations from the relationships established in the theoretical model are observed, leading to a revision of the model. A major finding is that SMPs within an SMC category can span multiple SME stages.Research limitations/implicationsThe study proposes a revised model based on a small sample of case firms, which may limit its broader applicability.Practical implicationsManufacturing practitioners can use the findings of this study to plan SMPs that align with their SME goals.Originality/valueTowards incorporating sustainability in the H-W model, this is the first major exploratory study that establishes congruent relationship between SMCs and SME stages of the H-W model.