bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Universal statistics of hippocampal place fields across species and dimensionalities
Authors: Mainali Nischal , da Silveira Rava Azeredo , Burak Yoram 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACTHippocampal place cells form a spatial map by selectively firing at specific locations in an animal’s environment1. Until recently the hippocampus appeared to implement a simple coding scheme for position, in which each neuron is assigned to a single region of space in which it is active1. Recently, new experiments revealed that the tuning of hippocampal neurons to space is much less stereotyped than previously thought: in large environments, place cells are active in multiple locations and their fields vary in shape and size across locations, with distributions that differ substantially in different experiments2–7. It is unknown whether these seemingly diverse observations can be explained in a unified manner, and whether the heterogeneous statistics can reveal the mechanisms that determine the tuning of neural activity to position. Here we show that a surprisingly simple mathematical model, in which firing fields are generated by thresholding a realization of a random Gaussian process, explains the statistical properties of neural activity in quantitative detail, in bats and rodents, and in one-, two-, and three-dimensional environments of varying sizes. The model captures the statistics of field arrangements, and further yields quantitative predictions on the statistics of field shapes and topologies, which we verify. Thus, the seemingly diverse statistics arise from mathematical principles that are common to different species and behavioral conditions. The underlying Gaussian statistics are compatible with a picture in which the synaptic connections between place cells and their inputs are random and highly unstructured.
The ferroptosis mediator ACSL4 fails to prevent disease progression in mouse models of MASLD
Authors: Angendohr Carolin , Koppe Christiane , Schneider Anne T , Keysberg Leonie , Singer Michael T , Dille Matthias A , Bode Johannes G , Conrad Marcus , Vucur Mihael , Luedde Tom 
Published: June 2024

AbstractMetabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease is an increasingly prevalent condition, representing a major risk factor for the development of progressive chronic liver damage. This can potentially give rise to the development of steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is already known, that patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) show increased systemic and hepatic iron concentrations as well as perturbed lipid metabolism, suggesting involvement of ferroptotic cell death in the development and progression of MASLD. Consequently, inhibition of ferroptosis represents a potential therapeutic option for patients with MASLD.The aim of this study was to determine whether a liver parenchymal cell specific conditional deletion of the pro-ferroptotic gene acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4LPC-KO) can ameliorate the onset and progression of MASLD in mice. To this end, ACSL4LPC-KOand floxed wild-type littermates were fed a choline-deficient high-fat diet over the course of 20 and 40 weeks to monitor the progression of metabolic liver injury as well as the development of metabolic syndrome.In contrast to the recently published studies by Duan et al. [1], our results show no significant differences between ACSL4LPC-KOand WT mice with regard to the development of MASLD or the progression of metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, no differences were observed in metabolic parameters (i.e. weight gain, glucose tolerance test, hepatic steatosis) or MASLD-associated inflammatory response. Our analyses therefore suggest that loss of ACSL4 has no effect on the progression of MASLD induced by choline-deficient high fat diet. The discrepancy between our and previously published results could be due to differences in the diets or the influence of a distinct microbiome, so the results obtained with liver parenchymal cell specific ACSL4 null mice should be taken with caution.
Central Amygdala Astrocyte Plasticity Underlies GABAergic Dysregulation in Ethanol Dependence
Authors: Nentwig Todd B. , Obray J. Daniel , Kruyer Anna , Wilkes Erik T , Vaughan Dylan T. , Scofield Michael D. , Chandler L. Judson 
Published: June 2024

AbstractDependence is a hallmark of alcohol use disorder characterized by excessive alcohol intake and withdrawal symptoms. The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is a key brain structure underlying the synaptic and behavioral consequences of ethanol dependence. While accumulating evidence suggests that astrocytes regulate synaptic transmission and behavior, there is a limited understanding of the role astrocytes play in ethanol dependence. The present study used a combination of viral labeling, super resolution confocal microscopy, 3D image analysis, and slice electrophysiology to determine the effects of chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure on astrocyte plasticity in the CeA. During withdrawal from CIE exposure, we observed increased GABA transmission, an upregulation in astrocytic GAT3 levels, and an increased proximity of astrocyte processes near CeA synapses. Furthermore, GAT3 levels and synaptic proximity were positively associated with voluntary ethanol drinking in dependent rats. Slice electrophysiology confirmed that the upregulation in astrocytic GAT3 levels was functional, as CIE exposure unmasked a GAT3-sensitive tonic GABA current in the CeA. A causal role for astrocytic GAT3 in ethanol dependence was assessed using viral-mediated GAT3 overexpression and knockdown approaches. However, GAT3 knockdown or overexpression had no effect on somatic withdrawal symptoms, dependence-escalated ethanol intake, aversion-resistant drinking, or post-dependent ethanol drinking in male or female rats. Moreover, intra-CeA pharmacological inhibition of GAT3 also did not alter dependent ethanol drinking. Together, these findings indicate that ethanol dependence induces GABAergic dysregulation and astrocyte plasticity in the CeA. However, astrocytic GAT3 does not appear necessary for the drinking related phenotypes associated with dependence.
BASOPHILS ACTIVATE PRURICEPTOR-LIKE VAGAL SENSORY NEURONS
Authors: Wang Jo-Chiao , Nikpoor Amin Reza , Crosson Théo , Kaufmann Eva , Rafei Moutih , Talbot Sébastien 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACTVagal sensory neurons convey sensations from internal organs along the vagus nerve to the brainstem. Pruriceptors are a subtype of neurons that transmit itch and induce pruritus. Despite extensive research on the molecular mechanisms of itch, studies focusing on pruriceptors in the vagal ganglia still need to be explored. In this study, we characterized vagal pruriceptor neurons by their responsiveness to pruritogens such as lysophosphatidic acid,β-alanine, chloroquine, and the cytokine oncostatin M. We discovered that lung-resident basophils produce oncostatin M and that its release can be induced by engagement of FcεRIα. Oncostatin M then sensitizes multiple populations of vagal sensory neurons, including Tac1+and MrgprA3+neurons in the jugular ganglia. Finally, we observed an increase in oncostatin M release in mice sensitized to the house dust miteDermatophagoides pteronyssinusor to the fungal allergenAlternaria alternata, highlighting a novel mechanism through which basophils and vagal sensory neurons may communicate during type I hypersensitivity diseases such as allergic asthma.
Comparison between
μ−μ+
and
e−e+
colliders for charged Higgs production in the 2HDM
Authors: Ait Ouazghour Brahim , Arhrib Abdesslam , Cheung Kingman , Ghourmin Es-said , Rahili Larbi 
Published: June 2024

We study the phenomenology of the charged Higgs boson at future muon colliders. We investigate the pair production μ+μ−→H+H−, the single production μ+μ−→W±H∓, as well as the vector boson fusion (VBF) {e+e−,μ+μ−}→νν¯H+H−. We show that the neutral Higgs exchange diagrams in the muon collider case can lead to a significant boost in the cross sections through their Yukawa couplings. Our results for the muon collider are systematically compared to the corresponding ones at e+e− machines. It is demonstrated that the VBF e+e−→νν¯H+H− can compete with the mentioned 2→2 processes. We select benchmark points and perform signal-background analyses, taking into account detector simulations. We demonstrate the discovery region at 5σ and the excluded region at 2σ levels at a 3 TeV muon collider.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Tailoring the statistics of light emitted from two interacting quantum emitters
Authors: Juan-Delgado Adrián , Esteban Ruben , Nodar Álvaro , Trebbia Jean-Baptiste , Lounis Brahim , Aizpurua Javier 
Published: June 2024

The interaction between quantum emitters leads to the formation of superradiant and subradiant states with possible applications in quantum technologies. To improve the characterization of light emission from these systems, we present here a systematic theoretical analysis of the intensity correlation from two strongly interacting quantum emitters at cryogenic temperatures as a function of the frequency and intensity of the excitation laser. This analysis effectively accounts for the effect of vibrational modes of the emitters and of phonons of the environment through the combined Debye-Waller/Franck-Condon factor. First, we analyze the color-blind intensity correlation and show that it can be tailored from strong antibunching to strong bunching by tuning the laser from the two-photon resonance to the transition frequency of the superradiant state. We also find a particularly complex behavior of the intensity correlation when the laser frequency is tuned to that of the transition of the subradiant state, giving raise to the possibility of emitting bunched and antibunched light depending on the laser intensity and the detuning between the two emitters. The numerical results are supported by analytical equations that can be used for the experimental characterization of the interacting emitters. Additionally, by selecting photons of particular frequencies, we analyze the rich landscape of frequency-resolved intensity correlations, which also depend on the laser detuning and intensity. The analysis of the frequency-resolved correlations provides further information about the different relaxation processes underlying the photon emission, unveiling one-photon and two-photon emission processes that cannot be resolved neither in the emission spectrum nor in the color-blind intensity correlation. These results show that two interacting emitters are a versatile and practical source of quantum light and highlight the usefulness of the intensity correlation to unveil complex dynamics in this system.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Pulse magnetized superconducting bulk array undulator concept
Authors: Weerakonda Dian , Dennis Anthony , Calvi Marco , Durrell John 
Published: June 2024

A number of benefits result from reducing the period length of an undulator without sacrificing magnetic field strength, such as an increased photon flux and higher energy synchrotron radiation. Replacing permanent magnets with bulk high-temperature superconductors (HTSs) has proved to be an effective path towards this goal. We present a concept for a bulk HTS undulator that is magnetized via pulsed field magnetization, which is a much more compact and economical form of magnetizing HTS bulks compared to the field-cooling or zero-field cooling methods that are typically employed. The results from an experiment tailored to demonstrate the feasibility of this concept are also presented. With these results, we estimate that an undulator field of 2.3 T could be generated using this design with a magnetic gap of 4 mm and a 16 mm period length, operating at 40 K.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Audit committees in transition: evaluating the effectiveness of corporate governance in Libya’s banking sector
Authors: Masli Abdulhakim M. , Gerged Ali Meftah , Mangena Musa 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this research paper is to investigate the perspectives of key stakeholders on strategies to improve the effectiveness of audit committees (ACs) in African economies, with a specific focus on the Libyan banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach
The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews. The data collection process involves gathering responses from participants through questionnaires and conducting in-depth interviews to gain deeper insights into the subject matter.

Findings
The research findings highlight several key points. Firstly, fortifying Libya’s accounting and auditing profession emerges as the most widely endorsed suggestion for enhancing AC effectiveness. Secondly, participants identified various actions that can strengthen ACs, including appointing members with financial expertise, refining the legal requirements governing AC responsibilities, securing board support, enhancing Libya’s legal and regulatory framework, adequately compensating AC members and reducing government intervention in AC practices.

Originality/value
This research contributes to the field of corporate governance by providing valuable insights into the perspectives of stakeholders on enhancing AC effectiveness in the Libyan banking sector, within the broader context of African economies. The findings offer actionable plans for regulators and policymakers seeking to improve AC effectiveness in Libya.
A reciprocal – reflective approach to learning: concept and model
Authors: Lyons Paul , Bandura Randall 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper aimed primarily at the practitioner is to offer foundational information regarding reciprocal-reflective approach to learning (RRAL). Presentation and explanation include conceptual and theory grounding of the processes to be initiated by a manager for collaboration with an employee. A detailed model reflective of the approach is presented. Conceptual and practice-aimed information may be adapted for training and development.

Design/methodology/approach
Explanations of employee learning often place the manager in role(s) of teacher, guide, coach and/or expert. Proposed here is an approach in which manager and individual employee, jointly, make use of a learning approach which is representative of an experiential, action or problem-based form of learning from which they both can learn. The manager can initiate the process in which both participants collaborate to identify some specific, shared learning goals aimed at the matters under consideration. Other goals, likely more personal in the case of each participant, may also be identified and efforts made to help one another attain progress regarding such goals. The RRAL process as explained mirrors a bifurcation of instrumental behaviors (focus on learning activities) and emotional behaviors (caring and sharing resulting in a strengthened relationship and trust).

Findings
Relying on research that clearly identifies various supportive behaviors on the part of the manager, a detailed example of a plan is provided. The plan is driven by shared aims, focus, feedback and adjustment. In addition to individual learning goals, the manager has the opportunity to make her/his own role adjustments that lead to positive, supportive actions stimulating the quality of the relationship with the employee including the building of trust.

Practical implications
Using the example provided as a guide can be very helpful to a manager with limited experience in instigating employee learning and change. Initial use may be regarded as an experiment subject to much analysis and discussion by both participants as they contemplate how to work together in future reciprocal learning endeavors.

Originality/value
Currently, there is little research available that expresses how manager and employee can work as partners on some matter (change, problem, improvement) in a collaborative, reciprocal fashion. This paper, as an example, should demonstrate that skills and knowledge of both participants can improve and progress made regarding the issue at hand. The RRAL can be fashioned by the participants to yield progress and a more positive relationship.
A self-assessment guide for readiness to govern
Authors: Berland Alex 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis viewpoint introduces a “Readiness Self-Assessment Guide” that can be used as a diagnostic tool to help health service governors and managers, particularly in Low-Middle Income Countries, or those in the early stages of developing their governance program.Design/methodology/approachThe approach uses the conceptual framework for governance developed by Barbazza and Tello (2014).FindingsThe Guide is based on five foundational elements or components of governance that frame the actual governance activities. The self-assessment process uses a sequence of real-world examples to help users of the Guide assess their organization’s “readiness” or current capacity to strengthen quality. A simple scoring process allows users to rate their organization’s progress through potential evolutionary steps. The resulting analysis is intended to be the starting point of a structured discussion among team members about priorities, enabling factors and constraints.Practical implicationsAssessment of the institutional context is a fundamental step that will enable quality teams to select the appropriate tools for their priority concerns. This Readiness Self-Assessment Guide can be used as part of that diagnostic assessment.Originality/valueThis paper is empirically derived from the author’s experience as a consultant helping health service organizations and governing authorities to develop health governance programs in several countries.
COVID-sumers: consumers’ feelings due Covid-19 pandemic in Brazil and potential implications for services marketing
Authors: Terres Mellina da Silva , Rohden Simoni F. , Sebastião Letícia Vedolin 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The changes in the service context due to COVID-19 have challenged service marketers to understand and react to consumers’ feelings that impact their shopping behavior in services. Moreover, consumers had to face a challenging situation with an impact on mental health. This study aims to assess the impact of spirituality and compassionate love as coping mechanisms that might increase hope, which, in turn, decreases anxiety. Hope also mitigates the impact of fear on anxiety. The authors also investigate the mediate effect of hope in its relationship to spirituality and well-being during the pandemic in Brazil and its potential impact on services marketing.

Design/methodology/approach
To investigate the relationship between fear, anxiety, hope, compassionate love, spirituality and well-being, the authors conducted an online survey with 469 Brazilians who had been in quarantine for more than 45 days. To conduct the investigation, the authors used a purposive sampling to reach respondents due to the exceptional situation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings
Using a structural equation model, the authors found that hope is a mediator with a buffer effect on the relationships between anxiety and fear and between spirituality and anxiety. Moreover, the authors found that hope mediates the relationship between spirituality and well-being, leading to greater levels of well-being. Service companies in general can benefit from using these findings to better manage their relationships with consumers during and after COVID-19 pandemic.

Research limitations/implications
The sample included only Brazilian respondents, and pre-pandemic well-being was not measured.

Originality/value
There is evidence that traumatic events (e.g. war) influence feelings and consumer behavior. The findings suggest that the adoption of practices related to spirituality during an extreme, stressful situation has an influence on people’s hope and potentially mitigates anxiety. Increasing spirituality and hope can also benefit perceptions of well-being. Besides, in this context, the authors recommend that service providers communicate unobservable elements in a transaction (e.g. care, safety) by providing observable signals of spirituality and hope to reduce negative emotions.
Authentic leadership and performance of public servants in Tanzania context: the mediation role of motivation
Authors: Kyambade Mahadih , Bartazary Daud , Namatovu Afulah , Tushabe Monica 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis study examined the relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance among public servants in Kigoma/Ujiji municipality in Tanzania. Further, we investigated the mediating role of motivation on the relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional research design was applied along with a quantitative research approach. The study sampled 260 public servants selected by random sampling from a total of 800 employees. Data were analyzed using Mplus software using the maximum likelihood estimator to test for hypotheses.FindingsThe findings show a positive significant relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance, a positive significant relationship between authentic leadership and motivation and a positive significant relationship between motivation and employee performance. Furthermore, motivation was found to be a significant mediator in the relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance among public servants in Tanzania.Practical implicationsThis study contributes to the corpus of research on authentic leadership, motivation and employee performance, especially in the context of public service. Additionally, it provides advice on how to use authentic leadership and motivation to enhance public servants performance. Managers should strive to create a motivational work climate characterized by trust, empowerment and recognition. By fostering a sense of ownership and investment in their work, managers can enhance employee motivation and engagement, leading to improved performance outcomes.Originality/valueOur study is one of a kind to emphasize the crucial roles that authentic leadership and motivation play in promoting commitment, dedication and positive social interactions at work. Our study also advances the understanding of public service motivation (PSM) theory.