bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mouse exploratory behaviour in the open field with and without NAT-1 EEG device: Effects of MK801 and scopolamine
Authors: Lim Charmaine J.M. , Bray Jack , Janhunen Sanna K. , Platt Bettina , Riedel Gernot 
Published: May 2024

AbstractOne aspect of reproducibility in preclinical research that is frequently overlooked is the physical condition in which physiological, pharmacological or behavioural recordings are conducted. In this study, the physical conditions of mice were altered through the attachments of wireless electrophysiological recording devices (Neural Activity Tracker-1, NAT-1). NAT-1 devices are miniaturised multichannel devices with on-board memory for direct high-resolution recording of brain activity for >48 hrs. Such devices may limit the mobility of animals and affect their behavioural performance due to the added weight (total weight of approximately 3.4 g). Mice were additionally treated with saline (control), N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK801 (0.85 mg/kg), or the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor blocker scopolamine (0.65 mg/kg) to allow exploration of the effect of NAT-1 attachments in pharmacologically treated mice. We found only minimal differences in behavioural outcomes with NAT-1 attachments in standard parameters of locomotor activity widely reported for the open field test between drug-treatments. Hypoactivity was globally observed as a consistent outcome in MK801-treated subjects and hyperactivity in scopolamine groups regardless of NAT-1 attachments. These data collectively confirm the reproducibility for combined behavioural, pharmacological and physiological endpoints even in the presence of lightweight wireless data loggers. The NAT-1 therefore constitutes a pertinent tool for investigating brain activity in e.g. drug discovery, models of neuropsychiatric and/or neurodegenerative diseases with minimal effects on pharmacological and behavioural outcomes.
Maize associated bacterial and fungal microbiomes show contrasting conformation patterns that are resilient to water availability
Authors: Díaz-González Sandra , González-Bodí Sara , González-Sanz Carlos , Marín Patricia , Brunner Frédéric , Sacristán Soledad 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPlant-associated microorganisms can help crops to alleviate water stress and increase the resilience of agricultural ecosystems to climate change. However, we still lack knowledge on the dynamics of bacterial and fungal microbial kingdoms within the soil and plant microbiomes and the response of these communities to different conditions such us, for example, water restrictions. This information is essential for the development of microbiome-based solutions to improve crop resilience to stressors associated to climate change. In this work, we explored: i) the conformation of the bacterial and fungal assemblages of different soil and plant compartments (bulk soil, rhizosphere, roots, leaves and grains) along the crop cycle of maize in an open field trial; and ii) the effect of water restriction on the maize microbiome comparing optimal irrigation with a 30% reduction of water supply. Our results show that microbial communities are highly structured along soil and plant compartments, with contrasting patterns for bacteria and fungi that were intensified towards the end of the plant cycle. Root showed the most differentiated bacterial assemblage while fungi conformed a very distinct community in the leaf, suggesting a relevant contribution of aerial fungal propagules to the microbiome of this plant organ. Despite the reductions in plant growth and yield, the microbiome of limited-watered plants did not show severe alterations. Still, significant impacts were observed within compartments, being fungi more responsive to limited watering than bacteria. Network analysis suggest that bacteria and fungi may play different roles in the shifts observed under water stress.
Uncovering the roles of the scaffolding protein CsoS2 in mediating the assembly and shape of the α-carboxysome shell
Authors: Li Tianpei , Chen Taiyu , Chang Ping , Ge Xingwu , Chriscoli Vincent , Dykes Gregory F. , Wang Qiang , Liu Lu-Ning 
Published: May 2024

AbstractCarboxysomes are proteinaceous organelles featuring icosahedral protein shells that enclose the carbon-fixing enzymes, Rubisco, alone with carbonic anhydrase. The intrinsically disordered scaffolding protein CsoS2 plays a vital role in the construction of α-carboxysomes through bridging the shell and cargo enzymes. The N-terminal domain of CsoS2 binds Rubisco and facilitates Rubisco packaging within the α-carboxysome, whereas the C-terminal domain of CsoS2 (CsoS2-C) anchors to the shell and promotes shell assembly. However, the role of the middle region of CsoS2 (CsoS2-M) has remained elusive. Here, we conducted indepth examinations on the function of CsoS2-M in the assembly of the α-carboxysome shell by generating a series of recombinant shell variants in the absence of cargos. Our results reveal that CsoS2-M assists CsoS2-C in the assembly of the α-carboxysome shell and plays an important role in shaping the α-carboxysome shell through enhancing the association of shell proteins on both the facet-facet interfaces and flat shell facets. Moreover, CsoS2-M is responsible for recruiting the C-terminal truncated isoform of CsoS2, CsoS2A, into α-carboxysomes, which is crucial for Rubisco encapsulation and packaging. This study not only deepens our knowledge of how the carboxysome shell is constructed and regulated but also lays the groundwork for engineering and repurposing carboxysome-based nanostructures for diverse biotechnological purposes.
Engineered lysins to modulate human gut microbiome communities
Authors: Rodriguez Juan R. Diaz , Lu Wenbo , Papadopoulos James M. , Venturelli Ophelia S. , Romero Philip A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe ability to precisely control the human gut microbiome’s composition, metabolic networks, and host interactions would revolutionize medicine and how we treat human disease. Microbiome remodeling approaches such as probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation are global perturbations with consequences that are difficult to predict. Lysins are enzymes produced by bacteriophages and bacteria that have exceptional specificity to lyse bacterial cells and could be applied for targeted microbiome remodeling. In this work we demonstrate the ability of lysins to target diverse human gut commensal bacteria, how domain recombination can give rise to chimeric lysins with altered species preferences, and how engineered lysins can directly remodel the structure and function of synthetic human gut microbiomes. Lysins represent a general platform that can be rapidly tailored through protein engineering to control complex microbial ecosystems.
Distinct functional classes of CA1 hippocampal interneurons are modulated by cerebellar stimulation in a coordinated manner
Authors: Froula Jessica M. , Rose Jarrett J , Krook-Magnuson Chris , Krook-Magnuson Esther 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThere is mounting evidence that the cerebellum impacts hippocampal functioning, but the impact of the cerebellum on hippocampal interneurons remains obscure. Using miniscopes in freely behaving animals, we find optogenetic stimulation of Purkinje cells alters the calcium activity of a large percentage of CA1 interneurons. This includes both increases and decreases in activity. Remarkably, this bidirectional impact occurs in a coordinated fashion, in line with interneurons’ functional properties. Specifically, CA1 interneurons activated by cerebellar stimulation are commonly locomotion-active, while those inhibited by cerebellar stimulation are commonly rest-active interneurons. We additionally find that subsets of CA1 interneurons show altered activity during object investigations, suggesting a role in the processing of objects in space. Importantly, these neurons also show coordinated modulation by cerebellar stimulation: CA1 interneurons that are activated by cerebellar stimulation are more likely to be activated, rather than inhibited, during object investigations, while interneurons that show decreased activity during cerebellar stimulation show the opposite profile. Therefore, CA1 interneurons play a role in object processingandin cerebellar impacts on the hippocampus, providing insight into previously noted altered CA1 processing of objects in space with cerebellar stimulation. We examined two different stimulation locations (IV/V Vermis; Simplex) and two different stimulation approaches (7Hz or a single 1s light pulse) – in all cases, the cerebellum induces similar coordinated CA1 interneuron changes congruent with an explorative state. Overall, our data show that the cerebellum impacts CA1 interneurons in a bidirectional and coordinated fashion, positioning them to play an important role in cerebello-hippocampal communication.Significance StatementAcute manipulation of the cerebellum can affect the activity of cells in CA1, and perturbing normal cerebellar functioning can affect hippocampal-dependent spatial processing, including the processing of objects in space. Despite the importance of interneurons on the local hippocampal circuit, it was unknown how cerebellar activation impacts CA1 inhibitory neurons. We find that stimulating the cerebellum robustly affects multiple populations of CA1 interneurons in a bidirectional, coordinated manner, according to their functional profiles during behavior, including locomotion and object investigations. Our work also provides support for a role of CA1 interneurons in spatial processing of objects, with populations of interneurons showing altered activity during object investigations.
PDGF-BB overexpression in p53 null oligodendrocyte progenitors increases H3K27me3 and induces transcriptional changes which favor proliferation
Authors: Huang Dennis , Mela Angeliki , Bhanu Natarajan V. , Garcia Benjamin A. , Canoll Peter , Casaccia Patrizia 
Published: May 2024

AbstractProneural gliomas are brain tumors characterized by enrichment of oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) transcripts and genetic alterations. In this study we sought to identify transcriptional and epigenetic differences between OPCs withTrp53deletion and PDGF-BB overexpression (BB-p53n), which form tumors when transplanted in mouse brains, and those carrying only p53 deletion (p53n), which do not. We used unbiased histone proteomics and RNA-seq analysis on these two genetically modified OPC populations and detected higher levels of H3K27me3 in BB-p53n compared to p53n OPCs. The BB-p53n OPC were characterized by higher levels of transcripts related to proliferation and lower levels of those related to differentiation. Pharmacological inhibition of histone H3K27 trimethylation in BB-p53n OPC reduced cell cycle transcripts and increased the expression of differentiation markers. These data suggest that PDGF-BB overexpression in p53 null OPC results in histone post-translational modifications and consequent transcriptional changes favoring proliferation while halting differentiation, thereby promoting the early stages of transformation.
Synaptic pruning facilitates online Bayesian model selection
Authors: Tazawa Ukyo T. , Isomura Takuya 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIdentifying appropriate structures for generative or world models is essential for both biological organisms and machines. This work shows that synaptic pruning facilitates efficient statistical structure learning. We extend previously established canonical neural networks to derive a synaptic pruning scheme that is formally equivalent to an online Bayesian model selection. The proposed scheme, termed Bayesian synaptic model pruning (BSyMP), utilizes connectivity parameters to switch between the presence (ON) and absence (OFF) of synaptic connections. Mathematical analyses reveal that these parameters converge to zero for uninformative connections, thus providing reliable and efficient model reduction. This enables the identification of a plausible structure for the environmental model, particularly when the environment is characterized by sparse likelihood and transition matrices. Through causal inference and rule learning simulations, we demonstrate that BSyMP achieves model reduction more efficiently than the conventional Bayesian model reduction scheme. These findings indicate that synaptic pruning could be a neuronal substrate underlying structure learning and generalizability in the brain.
Counter-intuitive method improves yields of isotopically-labeled proteins expressed in flask-culturedEscherichia coli
Authors: Treviño Miguel Ángel 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTNMR is a powerful tool for the structural and dynamic study of proteins. One of the necessary conditions for the study of these proteins is their isotopic labeling with13C,15N and sometimes2H. One of the most widely used methods to obtain these labeled proteins is heterologous expression of the proteins inE. coliusing13C-D-glucose and15NH4Cl as the sole nutrient source. In recent years, the price of13C-D-glucose has almost tripled, making it essential to develop labelling methods that are as cost effective as possible. In this article, different parameters have been studied to achieve the most rational use of13C-D-glucose and an optimised method has been developed to obtain labeled proteins with high labelling, low13C-D-glucose consumption. Surprisingly, the optimised method is also simplier and does not require monitoring culture growth
Toxoplasma gondiiinfection accelerates the progression of hereditary spastic paraplegia
Authors: Alvin James R. , Ramírez-Flores Carlos J. , Mendina Caitlin A. , Audhya Anjon , Knoll Laura J. , Lettman Molly M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe parasitic protozoaToxoplasma gondiichronically infects the central nervous system of an estimated one-third of the human population. Infection is generally subclinical, but immunocompromised individuals can experience a variety of neurological symptoms. Meta-analyses ofT. gondiiseropositivity have suggested a correlation betweenT. gondiiinfection and neurologic disease. While mechanistic studies on the relationship betweenT. gondiiinfection and neurologic disease have been attempted in mice, mice are particularly susceptible toT. gondii, making them an effective model for investigating mechanisms of infection, but not ideal for examining the relationship between long-term chronicT. gondiiinfection and neurologic disease. Rats more closely mimic human clearance ofT. gondiiafter acute infection, but a lack of rat models of neurologic disease has limited studies on the interplay betweenT. gondiiinfection and neurologic disease progression. We have employed a previously characterized rat model of a complex form of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), a class of neurodegenerative disorders which cause axonal degeneration and lower limb spasticity, in order to assess the effect of chronicT. gondiiinfection on neurodegenerative disease. We find that infected rats with hereditary spastic paraplegia exhibit significantly exacerbated behavioral and neuromorphological HSP symptoms compared to uninfected HSP mutant rats, with little correlative effect in infected versus uninfected control animals. We further find that all infected rats regardless of genotype exhibit a robust immune response toT. gondiiinfection, effectively clearing the parasite below the limit of detection of multiple assays of parasitemia and exhibiting no detectable increase in neuroinflammation seven weeks post-infection. These results suggest that chronic undetectedT. gondiiinfection may exacerbate neurodegenerative disease even in immunocompetent individuals and may contribute to neurodegenerative disease heterogeneity.Author SummaryThe long-term consequences of previous acute infections are poorly understood, but are becoming increasingly appreciated, particularly in the era of long Covid. Altered progression of other diseases later in life may be among the long-term consequences of previous infections. Here we investigate the relationship between previous infection with the parasiteToxoplasma gondii, which infects ∼30% of the global population, and neurodegenerative disease using a rat model of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP). We find that previous infection withT. gondiiaccelerates motor dysfunction in HSP rats, despite robust clearance of the parasite by infected rats. Our results suggest that previously cleared infections may alter the progression of other diseases later in life and contribute to neurodegenerative disease heterogeneity.
MEK signaling represents a viable therapeutic vulnerability ofKRAS-driven somatic brain arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Suarez Carlos Perfecto Flores , Harb Omar Ashraf , Robledo Ariadna , Largoza Gabrielle , Ahn John J. , Alley Emily K. , Wu Ting , Veeraragavan Surabi , McClugage Samuel T. , Iacobas Ionela , Fish Jason E. , Kan Peter T. , Marrelli Sean P. , Wythe Joshua D. 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTBrain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) are direct connections between arteries and veins that remodel into a complex nidus susceptible to rupture and hemorrhage. Most sporadic bAVMs feature somatic activating mutations withinKRAS, and endothelial-specific expression of the constitutively active variant KRASG12Dmodels sporadic bAVM in mice. By leveraging 3D-based micro-CT imaging, we demonstrate that KRASG12D-driven bAVMs arise in stereotypical anatomical locations within the murine brain, which coincide with high endogenousKrasexpression. We extend these analyses to show that a distinct variant, KRASG12C, also generates bAVMs in predictable locations. Analysis of 15,000 human patients revealed that, similar to murine models, bAVMs preferentially occur in distinct regions of the adult brain. Furthermore, bAVM location correlates with hemorrhagic frequency. Quantification of 3D imaging revealed that G12D and G12C alter vessel density, tortuosity, and diameter within the mouse brain. Notably, aged G12D mice feature increased lethality, as well as impaired cognition and motor function. Critically, we show that pharmacological blockade of the downstream kinase, MEK, after lesion formation ameliorates KRASG12D-driven changes in the murine cerebrovasculature and may also impede bAVM progression in human pediatric patients. Collectively, these data show that distinct KRAS variants drive bAVMs in similar patterns and suggest MEK inhibition represents a non-surgical alternative therapy for sporadic bAVM.
Linking executive pay to ESG goals: the role of board gender diversity
Authors: Le Thanh Dat , Ngo Julie T.D. 
Published: May 2024

PurposeIn recent years, US firms have increasingly integrated ESG performance goals into their executive remuneration packages. This study examines the relationship between board gender diversity and the tendency of firms to incorporate ESG metrics in performance-based compensation using data from US firms. The key questions this study addresses are: Are firms with more females on the board more likely to link executive compensation metrics? What components and types of ESG metrics are more likely to be adopted by firms with more females on the board?.Design/methodology/approachThis study employs OLS regression, logistic regression, as well as instrumental variable, propensity score matching, and entropy balance methods to establish causality.FindingsThis study finds that firms with gender-diverse boards are more likely to shape their executive remuneration plans to be more ESG-oriented. The most significant positive relationship is observed with environmental and social sub-categories. The results also demonstrate that female directors are more likely to encourage firms to evaluate managers based on absolute and short-term ESG goals.Originality/valueThis study is one of the early studies that examine the adoption of ESG performance goals into executive compensation plans. It contributes to the existing literature by exploring the relationship between board gender diversity and the probability of firms incorporating ESG performance goals into executive compensation packages using a sample of US firms.
Impact of China's community of shared destiny policy (CCSDP) on development and its bearing on trade and ethnicity in Africa
Authors: Tasinda Odette Tougem , Ze Tian , Bekoe Bernard Boamah , Imanche Sunday Adiyoh , Taty Brandy Perkwang , Tasinda Raphael Fomukong , Mwizerwa Innocent Tayari 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis paper reports on the impact of China's Community of Shared Destiny Policy (CCSDP) on ethnicity, and the development and trade benefits in Africa, whilst proposing suggestions for improvements.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-research (desktop-based and online survey-based) approach was employed.FindingsTrade and foreign direct investment alone can account for 11.8% of changes in the peaceful coexistence of China and some selected African countries, and cause changes to the mutual prosperity of China and African nations, to the tune of 6.3%. Therefore, the activation of mutual prosperity among these nations is not necessarily trade and foreign direct investment. The CCSDP is effective and has increased economic development for ethnic groups (50%), although with some negative concerns.Research limitations/implicationsInadequate/small sample size for the study.Originality/valueChinese investment in Africa has had a transformative impact, driving economic growth, improving infrastructure, and fostering regional integration. The share of trade between China and Africa in the continent's overall external trade has increased dramatically. Overall, the CCSDP should be kept in place, but with some modifications to improve its effectiveness and mitigate its negative effects. Finally, as China's engagement with Africa evolves, it is vital that partnerships are founded on mutual understanding, respect, and benefit, and that policies reflect the different needs and ambitions of African communities.
Work pressure in higher education: a state of the art bibliometric analysis on academic work–life balance
Authors: Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf , Rahamaddulla Syed Radzi , Lee Chia Kuang , Ali Zuraina , Alias Umi Nabila 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to review the work–life balance (WLB) among academics. Academics are the pillars of higher education institutions’ (HEIs) mission to provide quality education to students and the community, supporting socioeconomic development. Most academics today are overworked and overburdened with duties, forcing them to work longer hours on weekends and at odd hours. This eventually affects their work–life balance and causes boundary conflicts between work and personal life.Design/methodology/approachThis study proposes a bibliometric analysis to investigate the underlying knowledge structure of this phenomenon by uncovering the past and present themes and predicting future trends of WLB in academia. This review adopts two analyses (bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis), presenting the knowledge structure network. A total of 307 journal publications were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS) database, revealing significant clusters and themes.FindingsFindings identified central themes, including the issue of women in academia, predictors and the impact of WLB in academia.Research limitations/implicationsImplications towards research and practice relevant to scholars and practitioners are discussed, particularly in balancing academics, professional work and personal life.Originality/valueThis study presents a state-of-the-art bibliometric analysis by uncovering the knowledge structure of academics’ work–life balance in HEIs.