bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early intrinsic plasticity of neocortical engram neurons defines memory formation and precision
Authors: Frick Andreas , Hadzibegovic Senka , Zhu Liangying , Ginger Melanie , De Sa Rafael , Corf Katy Le , Costa Maria Gueidao , Feuvre Yves Le , Nicole Olivier , Bontempi Bruno 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Neocortical memory engrams are thought to stabilize and mature via enhanced interconnectivity during the so-called systems-consolidation process 1,2. While synaptic plasticity of these engram connections is considered an important mechanism for storing memories 3,4, it cannot fully account for the dynamic vividness of remote, cortically-based memories. Indeed, cell-intrinsic plasticity has been touted as the crucial early priming mechanism that renders nascent engram neurons susceptible to ongoing plastic processes while providing flexibility for later encoding events 5–7. Here, we reveal that learning-related neuron-wide intrinsic excitability (IE) plasticity of nascent cortical engram neurons is a permissive mechanism for the formation and specificity of remote associative memories. Using a c-fos-dependent genetic and viral system for the targeted labeling of engram neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) combined with ex vivo electrophysiology, we found that contextual fear learning triggered a time-dependent increase in their IE signature expressed over days during the early, but not late, phase of memory formation. Remarkably, chemogenetically hyperpolarizing engram neurons during this early plastic phase enhanced their maturation, increasing the strength and context-precision of consolidated memories and preventing memory disturbance caused by an interference event. Altogether, our findings identify cell-intrinsic plasticity within nascent ACC engram neurons as an essential tagging mechanism whose features determine the fate and dynamic content of remote memories.
Repellent Efficacy of Azadirachta indica and Ocimum sanctum Extracts against Tenebrio molitor Larvae
Authors: Shaw Pintu Kumar , Hassan S. M. Mahboob 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

The yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, is a significant pest of stored grains, causing substantial economic losses. The widespread use of chemical insecticides has raised concerns about environmental pollution, human health risks, and insect resistance. This study investigates the repellent potential of ethanolic extracts of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) against T. molitorlarvae. The results indicate that Neem extract exhibits higher repellency (84.28%, 85.89%, and 88.87% at 1%, 2%, and 3% concentrations, respectively) compared to Tulsi extract (66.02%, 69.97%, and 75.21% at 1%, 2%, and 3% concentrations, respectively). Notably, the combined extract of Neem and Tulsi demonstrates enhanced repellency (85.56%, 88.56%, and 90.63% at 1%, 2%, and 3% concentrations, respectively). This study highlights the potential of Neem and Tulsi extracts as eco-friendly grain protectants against T. molitorlarvae.
A New Pooling Method for Cnn-based Deep Learning Models
Authors: TURHAN KEMAL , Kalaycı Erşan , Özdemir Sinem 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) methods provide an effective architecture widely used in image classification tasks. The pooling method in CNN layers has a critical role in reducing the computational cost by preserving some information in the feature map. The primary objective of this study is to improve information loss in pooling methods used in the literature and enhance classification accuracy. The Turhan pooling method offers a weighting, balancing, and adjustment capability beyond traditional max-pooling and average-pooling methods. This method allows tuning the parameters of the two features with the highest signal that can generate action potentials in the pooling mechanism similar to biological neurons. The method enables to optimize pooling for specific datasets or tasks. The results demonstrate that the Turhan pooling method is effective and competes with different architectures such as CNN, AlexNet, U-Net, and ResNet-18 on the Cifar10 dataset, improving classification performance.
The effect of organizational Justice on organizational citizenship behavior through the mediating role of Organizational commitment in the Public universities in Amhara region
Authors: Mesfin Shimelis 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of organizational justice (OJ) on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) through the mediating role of organizational commitment (OC) in the public universities in Amhara region. Explanatory mixed research design was employed. The size of the population was 2170. Of these, 620 instructors were selected as samples using a proportional stratified random sampling technique. Five interviewees took part in the qualitative part of the study. The collected data were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. The result of one sample t-test indicated that the mean scores of OC (52.981) and OCB (71.363) were higher than the respective test values of these variables with (t = 15.398) and (t = 5.639) at p < .05, df = 619. On the contrary, the mean score of OJ (43.934) was lower than the test value with (t = -11.987, df = 619) at p < .05. The result of the structural equation modeling (SEM) indicated that there were positive and statistically significant relationships among OJ, OC, and OCB. Concerning the causal relationships, the value of R2 indicated that OJ significantly predicted 44.3% of the variance in OC with a standardized regression coefficient of (β = .667) at p < .05, while 29.2% of the variance in OCB was significantly predicted by the joint effects of OJ and OC with standardized regression coefficients of (β = .341) and (β = .164) respectively at p < .05. Statistically significant differences were found among instructors in their perception of OJ (F = 132.833, p = .000), OC (F = 3.163, p = .024) and OCB (F = 19.071, p = .000) across the four generations of universities. Therefore, it is concluded that OJ had a significant effect on OCB through the mediation of OC. Thus, it is suggested to improve the current status of OJ, OC, and OCB in the research sites.
Village Fund And Village Development In West Java Province
Authors: Ramdani Sandi Asep , Kharisma Bayu 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Rural development programs that involve village communities as development subjects (Community Driven Development) have been implemented in various countries, including Indonesia through the village fund program. West Java, a province with a high accumulation of village funds, has a low Village Development Index (IDM) growth. This study analyses the contribution of village funds and Village Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) to IDM in West Java. Using panel data regression with fixed effect and Difference in Difference (DiD), data from 5.312 villages receiving village funds in the 2018–2023 period were analyzed. The study found that overall, village fund realization had a positive and significant effect on IDM, with the funds predominantly used for infrastructure development in the Village Development Sector. The regression results per Sector also found that all Village Fund Sectors had a positive and significant influence on the IDM value, with the highest influence from activities in the Village Development Sector. DiD analysis revealed that aligning village fund activities with Village SDGs has not yet significantly impacted IDM growth. Therefore, to accelerate village development, the Government should prioritize using village funds not only for infrastructure but also for activities like Village Community Empowerment while promoting the alignment of these funds with Village SDGs.
Beyond Voice Recognition: Integrating Alexa’s Emotional Intelligence and ChatGPT’s Language Processing for EFL Learners’ Development and Anxiety Reduction - A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Tajik Aliakbar 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

This groundbreaking study investigates the integration of Amazon Alexa, an emotionally intelligent AI platform, into English language teaching through an adaptive language learning system. Using a mixed-methods design, the study examined the impact of this innovative platform on the speaking skills of 40 high school students (aged 16–18) from Varamin County, Iran. The experimental group (n = 20) engaged with Amazon Alexa's emotionally intelligent platform, which provides AI-driven real-time feedback based on emotional intelligence (EI); in contrast, the control group (n = 20) received instruction using ChatGPT-3.5 over eight sessions following a pre-test to ensure group homogeneity. The study employed a concurrent mixed methods design, with quantitative data collected using the researcher-developed Speaking Assessment System and the researcher-developed Perception Questionnaire; qualitative data were derived from researcher-developed classroom observation checklists and researcher-developed semi-structured interviews (n = 15), focusing on emotional state monitoring and anxiety reduction patterns. Statistical analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between Alexa's EI-based instruction and speaking performance (p < 0.05, η2 = 0.42), with the experimental group showing significantly improved performance (F(1,38) = 24.63, p < 0.05). Amazon Alexa's emotional state detection capabilities demonstrated 94% accuracy in identifying and responding to learners' emotional states. This study represents a paradigm shift in language learning technology, leveraging Amazon Alexa's emotionally intelligent platform to address cognitive and emotional aspects of language acquisition simultaneously. The findings have significant implications for the global language learning market, particularly in addressing speaking anxiety and emotional barriers to language learning. The platform's scalability and cross-cultural applicability make it a potentially transformative solution for language learning worldwide, opening up new avenues for the development of emotionally intelligent educational technology.
Self-consistent models of Earth's mantle and core from long-period seismic and tidal constraints
Authors: Munch Federico Daniel , Kemper Johannes , Khan Amir , Helffrich George , Giardini Domenico 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Here we illustrate the use of self-consistent models to address fundamental questions about Earth's mantle and core structure. For this purpose, we invert a large set of recent normal-mode centre frequencies and quality (attenuation) factors, along with astronomic-geodetic data (mass, moment of inertia and tidal response), for the radial anelastic seismic structure of the Earth. We consider two distinct parameterisations that rely on 1) self-consistent and 2) physically-parameterised models. In the self-consistent approach, mantle models are constructed using petrologic phase equilibria in combination with a laboratory-based viscoelastic model connecting dissipation from seismic to tidal periods (~100~s--20~yr), whereas seismic properties for a homogeneous and adiabatic core are computed using equations-of-state. The physically-parameterised models follow the preliminary reference Earth model (PREM) and rely on a polynomial representation of density, P- and S-wave velocity, attenuation, and anisotropy. To study the impact of the inferred mantle seismic velocity structure, we compute P- and S-wave travel times and compared these to the observations of globally-averaged body wave travel times from the reprocessed ISC catalog. To further refine the seismic P-wave velocity structure of the outermost outer core, we also consider multiple core-mantle-boundary underside-reflected body wave travel times. The results indicate deviations from PREM, including a denser outer core, which possibly reduces the requirement for light elements, while diminishing the density contrast across the inner-core boundary. Finally, and of general interest to the wider community, uncertainty measures on all inverted properties are provided with the models presented here.
VAPB Promotes Osteogenic Differentiation in Aortic Valve Interstitial Cells via Activation of the SMAD Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Xiaolin , Xing Kai , Zheng Qiang , Li Ting , Ma Xiaochun , Zhang Tao , Sun Jun , Song Jian , Wang Zhengjun 
Published: February 2025

Objective:
Prior studies have associated vesicle-associated membrane protein-
associated protein B (VAPB) with various cardiovascular diseases, yet its role in calcific
Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD) is not fully understood. This study aims to elucidate
the relationship between VAPB and aortic valve calcification at both tissue and cellular
molecular levels, exploring potential regulatory mechanisms.

Methods:
The expression levels of VAPB in calcified valve tissues were assessed using
immunohistochemical analysis. Osteogenic differentiation and calcification levels of
valve interstitial cells (VICs) were evaluated by alizarin red staining, calcium content
quantification, and the detection of the osteogenic markers. Gene set enrichment analysis
(GSEA) was used to identify downstream pathways regulated by VAPB, immunoblotting
was used to detect the expression of key molecules of SMAD signaling,
and immunoprecipitation was performed to detect interactions between VAPB and
SMAD1/5/9.

Results:
VAPB expression was significantly upregulated in the aortic valve leaflets of
patients with CAVD. VICs with VAPB overexpression exhibited a significant increase
in calcium content (p < 0.001) and upregulation of osteogenic markers RUNX2, osteocalcin,
and osteopontin (p < 0. 01). Conversely, VAPB knockdown reduced osteogenic
differentiation in VICs. Furthermore, VAPB overexpression led to the enhanced expression
of p-SMAD1/5/9 through activation of the SMAD signaling pathway (p < 0.05),
while inhibition of the SMAD pathway abrogated the pro-calcification effects of VAPB.
Dual immunofluorescence staining demonstrated colocalization of VAPB with
SMAD1/5/9, and immunoprecipitation confirmed an interaction between VAPB and
SMAD1/5/9.

Conclusion:
The findings indicate that VAPB promotes osteogenic differentiation in aortic
valve interstitial cells by activating the SMAD signaling pathway.

result:
VAPB expression was significantly upregulated in the aortic valve leaflets of patients with CAVD compared to normal aortic valves. VICs with VAPB overexpression exhibited a significant increase in calcium content (p &lt; 0.001) and upregulation of the transcription factor RUNX2 and the osteogenic markers osteocalcin and osteopontin at both mRNA and protein levels (p &lt;0. 01). Conversely, VAPB knockdown reduced osteogenic differentiation in VICs. Furthermore, VAPB overexpression led to the enhanced expression of p-SMAD1/5/9 through activation of the SMAD signaling pathway (p &lt; 0.05), while inhibition of the SMAD pathway abrogated the pro-calcification effects of VAPB. Dual immunofluorescence staining demonstrated colocalization of VAPB with SMAD1/5/9, and immunoprecipitation confirmed an interaction between VAPB and SMAD1/5/9.
The Role of Jianpi Jiedu Recipe in Modulating the CRC Microenvironment
Authors: Li Mengyao , Hua Dongming , Feng Yuanyuan , Wang Zhiyan , Hu Xueqing , Wang Yan 
Published: February 2025

Background:
The anti-tumor effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine has been recognized
in regulating the tumor microenvironment. Jianpi Jiedu Recipe (JPJDR) is clinically effective in enhancing
the chemotherapy efficacy in Colorectal Cancer (CRC) treatment and significantly improved
the quality of life of CRC patients. However, its therapeutic mechanism remains to be investigated

Material and Methods:
The active compounds of each herb in JPJDR were obtained from the HIT2.0
and HERB databases supported by evidence in literature. Single-cell RNA sequencing data of CRC
were obtained from published studies (PMID: 32451460, 32103181, and 32561858). Pathway enrichment
was analyzed using the reactome database, and gene correlation analysis was performed using
the corrplot R software package. Gene expression regulated by JPJDR was verified by RT-qPCR.

Results:
Ye Pu Tao Teng, Ba Yue Zha, Huang Qi, Bai Zhu, Yi Yi Ren and Dang Shen contained 4,7,
18, 26,3 and 30 compounds, respectively, and they target to 38, 7, 262, 309, 50, 54 genes, respectively.
JPJDR is involved in a range of immune-related biological processes, including cytokine signaling,
cell proliferation, apoptosis and cellular senescence. JPJDR regulates various cell types in the CRC
microenvironment, including malignant CRC cells, immune cells (including CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T
cell, B cell, plasma cell, mast cell, and myeloid cell), and stromal cells (including fibroblast, pericyte,
enteric glial cell, and endothelial cell). We confirmed that JPJDR significantly downregulated the expression
of HMGB1 and MT2A in CRC.

Conclusions:
JPJDR regulates a range of cell types in the CRC microenvironment, including malignant
CRC, immune cells and stromal cells. Downregulation of HMGB1 and MT2A might be the important
mediators for JPJDR to modulate the CRC microenvironment.
Discovering Active Chemotherapeutic Agents for Sexually Transmitted Diseases to Inhibit Pathogenic HPV-16-E6 Protein
Authors: Vani Vemula , Alagumuthu Manikandan , Prasad Sanjay , Paul Nikita , Gajendra Nithya , Narayanaswamy Pooja , Venkataraman Pooja 
Published: February 2025

Background:
One of the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is infection
with the human papillomavirus (HPV). The current treatment methods comprise employing chemotherapeutic
medications or doing surgery to remove the developed tumors. A more affordable option
for treating HPV-related diseases has emerged with the advent of medication-based therapy. The
interaction between E6 protein and E6AP generates a p53 degradation complex in HPV-infected cells,
which facilitates carcinogenesis.

Objective:
The purpose of this work is to use a virtual screening technique to find possible small
molecule inhibitors against the HPV16 E6 protein.

Methods:
Compounds 5, 7, and 10 are three new HPV 16 E6 inhibitors that were created utilizing a
fragment-based methodology. The trials subset in the ZINC database was screened virtually using
the structural information of these three novel chemicals, yielding 9800 hits. Using the GLIDE module
of the Schrodinger software, three virtual screening phases were applied to the molecules that
were collected from the database. MD simulations and DFT (Density Function Theory) were also
carried out.

Results:
The findings indicated that when compared to the reference molecule, luteolin, the five-hit
compounds (ZINC000034853956, ZINC000001534965, ZINC000095617673, ZINC000005764481,
and ZINC000071606215) demonstrated superior glide scores. Important interactions between these
compounds and the HPV 16 E6 protein were seen. Using the QikProp tool, the pharmacokinetic characteristics
of these hit compounds were examined. The findings demonstrated that the pharmacokinetic
characteristics and oral absorption by humans of all five compounds were found to be satisfactory.
Except for ZINC000005764481, all five hit compounds were predicted to be toxic; the remaining
four displayed drug-like characteristics.

Conclusion:
To create HPV 16 E6 inhibitors for the treatment of HPV-related disorders, the four hit
compounds (ZINC000034853956, ZINC000001534965, ZINC000095617673, and ZINC00007160-
6215) can be employed as lead molecules.
An Analysis of the Interactions between the 5' UTR and Introns in Mitochondrial Ribosomal Protein Genes
Authors: Deng Junchao , Li Ruifang , Song Xinwei , Gao Shan , Peng Shiya , Tian Xu 
Published: February 2025

Background:
The 5' UTR plays a crucial role in gene regulation, which may be through
its interaction with introns. Hence, there is a need to further study this interaction.

Objective:
This study aimed to investigate the interactions between 5' UTR and introns and their
correlation with species evolution.

Methods:
The optimally matched segments between 5' UTR and introns were identified using
Smith-Waterman local similarity matching, and the biological statistical methods were applied to
compare the optimally matched segments between different species.

Results:
The interactions between 5' UTR and introns were found to be primarily mediated by weak
bonds and demonstrated a directional change with species evolution. Additionally, a large proportion
of the optimally matched segments were very similar to miRNA and siRNA in terms of length
and matching rate characteristics.

Conclusion:
The weak bonds in the interactions between the 5' UTR and the introns could enhance
the flexibility of expression regulation, and an important correlation was found between the characteristic
distributions of the optimally matched segments and species evolution. Additionally, the
length and matching rate of a large proportion of optimally matched segments were very similar to
those of miRNA and siRNA. In conclusion, it is highly probable that quite a few of the optimally
matched segments are some kinds of functional non-coding RNAs.
Effects of Metal Chlorides on the Formation of Microemulsions
Authors: Gong Haifeng , Li Jierui , Zheng Kai , Chen Xiaohu , Li Anjing , Tang Xiaoning , Luo Xiangqing 
Published: February 2025

Background:
In recent years, mercury-free catalysts have become a key focus
of research in acetylene hydrogenation via the calcium carbide method. Metal chlorides,
as substitutes for mercuric chloride, have shown improved catalytic performance. Most
mercury-free catalysts are prepared by dissolving metal chlorides, adsorbing them onto
activated carbon, and then drying the mixture. However, this often results in poor dispersion
of the catalytic components, leading to aggregation within the pores of the activated
carbon. The microemulsion is a thermodynamically stable, homogeneous system formed
by oil, water, inorganic salts, surfactants, and co-surfactants. It can be used to achieve
nano-dispersion of metal chlorides. Therefore, we investigated the ability of several catalytically
active metal chlorides to form microemulsions.

Aim:
This study aimed to prepare microemulsions incorporating various metal chlorides and
investigate their impact on the formation of microemulsions to provide a theoretical foundation
for the subsequent use of microemulsion methods in synthesizing mercury-free catalysts.

Objective:
In this study, microemulsion was prepared successfully with the addition of
metal chlorides. The metal chloride would affect the interfacial tension (IFT), salt concentrate
required for phase transition, and shear viscosity of different mixtures. Experiments
have shown that many metal chloride salts can be dissolved in microemulsions, so it is
possible theoretically to prepare mercury-free catalysts using the microemulsion method.

Methods:
The oil–water IFT of the surfactant solution with metal chloride added was tested,
the metal chloride concentration required for the phase transition of microemulsions was
determined using salinity scanning, and the viscosity of each microemulsion was tested.

Results:
The results indicated that the IFTs of nearly all microemulsions decreased, with
values decreasing from 10–1 mN/m to 101 mN/m and a maximum reduction of 47.25
mN/m. The phase transitions observed were Winsor I → Winsor III → Winsor II. Metal
chloride concentrations required for the Winsor I to Winsor III transition ranged from
0.5% to 5%, while the Winsor III to Winsor II transition required a concentration between
8% to 20%. Increasing metal chloride concentrations led to higher viscosity, with MnCl2
causing the largest increase (15.4 mPa·s) and CuCl2 the smallest.

Conclusion:
The metal chloride concentration required for phase behavior transitions in
microemulsions correlated with the effectiveness in reducing the oil–water IFT and increasing
shear viscosity. Specifically, metal chlorides that necessitate lower concentrations
for phase transitions led to a more significant reduction in IFT and lower shear viscosity
in the microemulsion.